In the core zone, the environment for plants and animals is almost entirely shaped by humans. It has its own (micro-)climate, the water system is usually artificial, and the original substrate has often disappeared. For Verver Export this is the space where concepts are used that involve display planting.

In the marginal zone the natural environment for plants and animals is still largely intact (often with the exception of the soil structure). However, human activities mean that most of the original plants and animals have virtually disappeared. There is quite a lot of public green space, but this tends to be urban types adapted to the built environment. Verver Export develops concepts and applications for this zone that fit with a functional planting approach.

In the transitional zone the environment for plants and animals is usually intact, including the original soil. There is only scattered development. The transitional zone can be very species-rich; it forms the boundary region and the contact zone between the city and the surrounding landscape. For this zone, Verver Export recommends more natural planting with bulbs for naturalising and perennial planting planted mechanically in verges.

Taking account of the nature of a particular zone when designing and managing plantings results in variation in the planting and reinforces the identity of the various parts of the urban area. A useful assessment can be made by differentiating between three aspects: aesthetic quality, ecological quality and the usage value of the planting.

At Verver Export we are keen to help you think around this theme so that the right plant/concept ends up in the right place!