Plans are not always accurate. And even when they’re spot on, that doesn’t mean that the hardscape will go in per the plans. The result: planting areas may have more space, or less in this case. Doing an as-built survey is a major undertaking when everything has shifted. The solution? Vignettes.
Vignettes are quick looks at how the plants can go into the new design, based on photos taken after the major elements are installed, just before it’s time to plant. They’re done during a walk-through of the site, where other things are checked as part of the process.
They’re not an ideal solution, since quantities have to be adjusted on site, with the original planting plan as a guide. Since the planting areas shrunk due to drainage issues, some species were eliminated for a cleaner look. This is definitely a case where the design is more art than science!
This walk-through found irrigation valves for drip stations missing necessary filters and pressure regulators. Without filters, the emitters are more likely to clog, and without pressure regulators barbed fittings may pop out.