Your landscape architect will plan the best place to plant flowers, shrubs and trees according to your tastes and the characteristics of your property. If you're planning a large project, they work with architects and engineers to make sure green areas are considered from the beginning. Landscape architects take into account natural elements, such as the type of soil, amount of sun, location of buildings and walkways, and budget allotted. Then they draw up a plan and make any adjustments you want before agreeing on a final design. Some landscape architects do the yard work themselves, but many hire a landscape contractor to carry out the plan. A landscape architect should have at least a bachelor's degree and many have master's degrees. Many firms will only hire a landscape architect who has completed internships. Most states require landscape architects to be licensed.