Foliage First Landscape Design is a garden design studio based in Toronto and run by Jing Howard. Jing specializes in modern landscape design with a naturalistic planting style that enhances people’s connection with nature. She focuses on integrating plant-driven design principles that enhance the character, atmosphere and ecological function of the landscape.

Jing completed her landscape design training at the University of Guelph and George Brown College. She is a big advocate for ecological landscape design, especially about increasing biodiversity through residential gardens and city parks. In her designs, she emphasizes a close connection to nature, and tries to incorporate native plants as much as she can while at the same time achieve a functional and visually pleasing design solution.

Our contemporary landscape design approach uses immersive composition and simple materials with a beautiful, naturalistic planting style. We welcome spontaneity by thoughtful design, and thrive at helping people create sustainable outdoor spaces that have a sense of place. We love the communities we are now a part of, the deep relationships we’ve forged, and the impact a good design has on people’s lives and the eco-system. It’s been a meaningful journey!

Low maintenance and long lasting are important aspects in our design approach. Expertise is required when creating such designs with plant materials. While information online may be abundant, true comprehension comes from direct hands-on experience. We experiment a lot with plants and do extensive research before using them in our designs. We help clients achieve an immersive, ever-changing yet enduring garden with low maintenance.  

Whether it’s a small city yard or large modern country gardens, let us help you create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that multiplies your experience in your landscape. At Foliage First Landscape Design, excellence is our standard.

Prior to training in garden design, Jing had a successful career as a Health Economist in the bio-pharma industry, consulting firms and government agencies, working on complex projects that improve health system performance. She brings strong research, problem solving and project management skills as well as curiosity to her work as a landscape designer. She is a plant nerd and gardening addict!