Planting in a post AI world

Naturalistic planting designs are stylised representations of naturally occurring plant communities, using ecological principles to reflect the processes and patterns found in the wild.

Such plantings can boost biodiversity, support climate resilience, look beautiful and generally need less upkeep.

So why don't we see more in our parks, streets, and public spaces?

The design, implementation and management of these plantings can be complex and time consuming. Consequently, they are less commonplace in the public realm. Recent developments in AI however have the potential to assist the practice and provision of naturalistic planting design.

In a rapidly evolving built environment industry landscape professionals need to remain informed and curious about the applications and concepts of AI when creating comprehensive planting designs.

If you are interested in understanding more about how AI could support the process of naturalistic planting design, and keen to know a little more about the benefits, limitations and impacts of AI in practice then join us for this informative and thought-provoking webinar.

Learning outcomes

• Discover how digital technologies and AI can assist plant selection, enhance visualisation and streamline the creation of comprehensive planting designs.
• See examples of real-life planting schemes designed and powered by digital technologies.
• Hear about the risks and limitations of utilising AI, and the importance of human input.
• Learn the best practice for utilising AI in naturalistic planting design workflows - focusing on large language models (LLMs) and diffusion models.
• Have the opportunity to ask our speakers questions regarding your own insights and concerns.

Speakers

• Mike Shilton, CMLI, Director, Product Management, Transoft Solutions (UK) Ltd, will start us off by explaining the terms you should know, with hints, tips, why’s and when’s, and what you need to consider when using AI in a landscape practice.
• Thomas Yunqing Bai, CMLI, Associate & Practice BIM Lead, Ares Landscape Architects Ltd, will talk us through the dynamic variables of parametric landscape design, from concepts to application and the rules you need to know.
• Mark Loveless, Landscape Architect, Ares Landscape Architects Ltd, goes on to share findings from his award-winning master's research at the University of Sheffield, carried out with Professor Nigel Dunnett, exploring how AI can be integrated into naturalistic planting design workflows.
• Tracy Whitfield, Technical & Research Manager for the LI, will introduce the subject, guide our speakers, and take questions from the audience.

Sadly Nigel Dunnett passed away in April 2026. His legacy of over 30 years as a lecturer, researcher, designer and author in Planting Design, Urban Horticulture and Landscape Architecture will continue to influence and inspire many generations and projects to come.

This event is open to both LI members and non-members.

CPD

As a LI Member , this webinar counts towards your Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

If you have any questions, then please contact events@landscapeinstitute.org.