Frequently asked questions
The product
What is OpenLandscape3D?
An open-source landscape design workspace. You model the site — boundary, terrain points, hardscape — and place regional plants that carry real data, then preview the design across months and years and export schedules and an open file.
Is it free?
Yes. OpenLandscape3D is free and open source. See pricing.
What platforms does it run on?
The web planner runs in current desktop and tablet browsers. An iPhone and iPad app is coming soon (TestFlight on request); a macOS app is planned. See downloads.
Do I need an account?
No account is needed to try the web planner.
Does it use AI to design my garden?
No. Recommendations and checks come from published rules and cited plant facts, and every result explains why it appeared.
Plants and data
Which regions are covered?
Three U.S. pilot regions: Northeast, Southeast and Southwest. The planner works elsewhere if you set your own zone and frost dates, but the plant palette is tuned for those regions.
Can a ZIP code tell me what will grow?
No. A ZIP code or zone gives a starting point for winter cold. Soil, drainage, sun, exposure and care decide what thrives. Use the zone lookup as a first filter and confirm with a local nursery or extension office.
Why does a plant page say “draft — unreviewed”?
Launch records are an editorial compilation that a regional reviewer hasn’t signed off yet. Sources, dates and confidence are shown on each page; see data & attribution.
How accurate are growth projections?
They follow a simple, documented curve from install size to typical mature size. They are for comparing options and spacing, not predicting a specific plant’s future.
Can I suggest a plant or a correction?
Yes — email the plant id and your source. See support.
Files and other tools
Does it work with OpenPlan3D?
Yes. Import a house from OpenPlan3D, design around it and export back; the building returns unchanged. See Works with OpenPlan3D.
Can I export to CAD?
Not yet. Exports today are the OpenPlan3D-compatible JSON and CSV schedules. DXF/DWG exchange is on the roadmap.
Does it do grading, drainage or irrigation design?
Not yet. It records spot elevations, moisture and water use, and checks plants against them. Cut-and-fill, drainage analysis and irrigation zoning are planned.
Is my location shared?
Location is optional. Links between the web and iOS apps carry only a coarse, rounded location and never photos. See privacy.
Start designing in your browser
OpenLandscape3D is free and open source. Draw the site, place regional plants, and scrub through seasons and years before anything goes in the ground.