In-Ground Plantings

Planting areas that are level with or may be slightly sunken from the surrounding grade. The size and shape of the area may vary, and it is typically employed where there are few underground constraints. This planting condition is most desired as it allows for less constrained root growth, better drainage, and access to more soil volume when not encumbered by other built features. This condition also makes it easier to preserve sight lines and for stormwater to be directed to the planting area.

Corona Plaza, National Street and Roosevelt Avenue, Queens
Broadway Bedford Plaza, Brooklyn

Benefits

Review Benefits of Plantings in the ROW

Considerations

Review Key Considerations

  • May impact below or above ground utilities
  • Positive drainage must be established in all planting areas
  • Consider environmental and physical stresses plants must withstand, including drought and inundation, sun and shade, heat and cold, wind, compaction, garbage, and animal damage. Consider Raised Plantings where trampling or compaction may be prevalent
  • Consider grade and slope of In-Ground Plantings as slopes exceed 3 to 1 additional structure or Raised Plantings may be necessary
  • In-ground Plantings may satisfy requirements under the Unified Stormwater Rules for providing pervious surfaces; site specific requirements must be reviewed and approved by DEP

Maintenance

  • Consider worker access to the plantings for regular maintenance activities; access to a water source for irrigation should be provided
  • Any plantings not maintained by DOT, DEP, or Parks will require a maintenance agreement

Application

  • Wherever feasible; in-ground plantings are generally the preferred planting condition

Design

Review the Plant Finder for plants that perform well in the right-of-way. In-ground planting areas afford the most flexibility in plant type, provided adequate soil volume is present. Plant selection must always be made based on site-specific conditions.

Where planting trees, review design guidance for Tree Bed

Direct stormwater runoff into plantings wherever possible. Review Planted Stormwater Management Practices

Circulation and Soil

  • Maintain a clear path for any major pedestrian desire lines or defined circulation paths
  • Ensuring quality soil is paramount. Provide adequate soil volume and rooting area for plantings – in particular, ensure planting areas are sufficiently wide to accommodate proposed plants, areas narrower than 3 feet should be discouraged, and sufficient depth is provided for the plant type proposed; review Soils
  • In heavily trafficked areas, consider the use of suspended paving systems to maximize circulation while preventing soil compaction. Consider the use of a tree-bed guard or low plant fencing where feasible

Planting and Amenities

  • Plantings must be considered in context of the overall design
  • Design plantings in relation to seating areas or other areas of interest to create or define edges, to add visual interest, to provide shade, and to provide other protection for users
  • Select plants that provide year-round interest; utilize combinations of plants that have contrasting textures, colors, and forms; review Plant Selection
  • Plant densely to discourage littering, trampling and other improper uses
↑