Suntan answers:

Well, you need to have knowledge of all kinds of plants – trees & shrubs, herbaceous perennials, etc., including what conditions they all need and thrive in, and their disease and pest weaknesses, and maintenance requirements.

You need a knowledge of general design, using buildings, hardscaping elements (including decks, patios, waterfeatures, and more), and plants.

You’ll need some minimal drafting and business knowledge, which includes customer relations.

A Landscape “Designer” usually has a 2 to 4 year degree, and usually deal with residential and small business situations.

A Landscape “Artchitect” is a desinger, that has been through an apprenticeship for a number of years, and has passed a state exam for licensing. They usually work in large public and commercial situations.

Suntan answers:

Actually, i think it is a pretty bad a$$ job. If you like to be outside…if you like to be creative…if you like drawing both by hand and on the computer…its a great job!! I have a great friend that does LA, he owns his own company and is doing great and he love it.
Personally i am a creative person, and love the creative aspects of my job (sorta similar to LA). You just have to figure out what is important to you about your future career.

Suntan answers:

Both need the same core education for drafting, but specialization in there field requires different classes and experiences. I.E. Landscaping architect should only need a cursory understanding of building code for say kitchens but must understand how pitch and grade of a lot will effect runoff of water.