What aspect does landscape architecture integrate alongside design and planning?

Landscape architecture goes beyond mere design and planning by incorporating elements of horticulture and environmental stewardship. This integration emphasizes the importance of understanding plant materials, ecology, and sustainable practices in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces. Horticulture contributes knowledge about plant selection, growth patterns, and maintenance, which are essential for the longevity of landscapes. Environmental stewardship ensures that design decisions consider the ecological impact, promote biodiversity, and enhance the relationship between humans and nature. By marrying these aspects, landscape architecture promotes not only beautiful designs but also responsible and sustainable interactions with the environment.

While urban development policies, architectural styles, and historical preservation techniques are important considerations in the field, they do not encompass the ecological and living elements that horticulture and stewardship advocate for. Hence, the integration of these aspects provides a more holistic approach to landscape architecture, ensuring that designs are sustainable and ecologically balanced.