外文翻译-植物的物理特性.docVIP

The physical properties of plants An obvious physical property of any plant is its form.planting designers are usually concerned with the mature silhouette* of a plant,but its intermediate shapes should also be considered,particularly when a plant develops slowly. Most plant forms are rounded and more horizontal than vertical in shape. Rounded or horizontal shapes are less dramatic than those with vertical emphasis because they are more expected and they more naturally follow the shape of the terrain. Vertical shapes demand attention,even startling the viewer at times. Native plants forms usually conform to land forms(see figure 2-1). In mountainous reions the vertical shapes prevail,reflecting the sharp peaks and jagged rock configurations pf the area. Horizontal plant forms are most commom on the plains,and in rolling or hilly terrain rounded plant forms predpminate. Landscape designers do well toremeber this,using the natural plant forms of an area in a design and reserving the unusual forms for emphasis. Although the foerm of each plant is unique, there are general classifivations of forms. Trees can be round, columnar,vase-shaped,weeping,pyramidal,or oval. The outline of a tree depends on its branching pattern. Narrow crotch angles at the point where lateral branches separate form the trunk cause upright forms, the more rounded forms are caused by wider angles. Shrubs may be round,oval,pyramidal,or oblong;the may be prostrate or creeping. Part of a plant’s form is the result of the growth habit of the plant. In some evergreens,for example,the branches overlay one another. The plant’s form takes on an irregular line because of this layering.growth habit should always be considered to be an element of form. The best way to study plant forms is to visit a park,arboretum,or other area where mature are in plentiful supply. Compare the forms closely to classify specific plants and note the minor differences within classifications. Visit to a nursery