You need to keep your plant database up-to-date. What’s the best software to use?

1 Why use plant database software?

Plant database software is a tool that helps you manage and update your plant data. It can save you time and hassle by allowing you to search, filter, sort, and compare plants based on various criteria. It can also help you create plant lists, labels, schedules, and reports for your clients and contractors. Some plant database software can also integrate with your design software, such as CAD or BIM, and provide visual representations of your plants in your plans and models.

2 What to look for in plant database software?

When choosing a plant database software, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you want a software with a large and diverse collection of plants, preferably with photos, descriptions, and references. Additionally, it should be able to integrate and work seamlessly with your design software, as well as display plants in 2D or 3D. Furthermore, the software should have a user-friendly interface and a fast and accurate search engine. It should also have features that suit your workflow, such as custom filters, categories, tags, notes, ratings, favorites, etc. Lastly, you want a software that fits your budget and offers reliable customer service and technical support.

3 Some examples of plant database software

If you're looking for plant database software, there are a few options available. PlantMaster is a web-based software with over 25,000 plants and features such as a plant list generator, label maker, and plant encyclopedia. It integrates with AutoCAD and Revit and can export data to Excel, PDF, or Word. PlantFinder is a desktop software with 18,000 plants in its database and features like a plant selector, list maker, label printer, and report generator. It integrates with Vectorworks, SketchUp, and Land F/X and can export data to CSV, XML, or HTML. Lastly, PlantBase is a mobile app with 10,000 plants in its database and features like a plant scanner, identifier, care reminder, and journal. It syncs with your cloud storage and allows for data sharing with colleagues or clients. Prices range from $4.99 for a one-time purchase to $29.95 per month.

4 How to use plant database software effectively

Plant database software can be a great asset for your landscape architecture practice, but you need to use it effectively to get the most out of it. To do this, make sure to update your plant database regularly, checking for updates from your software provider and adding or editing plants as you discover new ones or change preferences. Additionally, customize your plant database to your needs utilizing the features and tools offered to organize and filter according to criteria, as well as creating categories, tags, notes, ratings, favorites, etc. Lastly, use your plant database as a source of inspiration; explore it and learn more about plants that interest you. Furthermore, generate ideas and combinations for projects and experiment with different scenarios and options.

5 How to choose the best plant database software for you

Ultimately, the best plant database software for you depends on your preferences, needs, and goals. It’s important to compare the features, benefits, and drawbacks of different software options. Additionally, you should ask for feedback from other landscape architects who use plant database software and see what they recommend. When making your decision, consider how often you use the software and for what purposes, as well as how much you are willing to spend on it and what is your return on investment. Additionally, think about how compatible the plant database software is with your design software and other tools, how easy it is to use and learn, and how satisfied you are with its performance and support.