There are certain elements that can either improve or bring down the overall quality of an architectural visualization image. 3D Vegetation is an important factor and has a great impact on the final look of a rendering. In some cases, using cutouts of trees, bushes, etc. can be a quick solution but most of the times using 3d geometry is the way to go.

However, creating 3d vegetation that looks convincing can prove to be quite a challenge. I have compiled a list of 11 tutorials that help in this regard. Some of them require plugins while others use the default instruments available with 3ds max and V-Ray.

Vizpeople grass tutorial

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbmQcE2RDQE

How to create autumn foliage

http://bertrand-benoit.com/blog/2012/10/09/two-tone-tree/

Realistic grass tutorial

http://vray.info/tutorials/grass/

Redvertex foliage tutorial

http://www.evermotion.org/tutorials/show/7901/red-vertex-foliage-tutorial

Xoio growFX tutorial

http://xoio.de/2011/grow-fx-basics-and-advanced-workflow-hints/

Creating sunflowers and trees

http://www.itoosoft.com/forestpack/tutorials/tutorial_modernbarn1.php

Creating lawn and ivy

http://www.itoosoft.com/forestpack/tutorials/tutorial_modernbarn4.php

Ivy generator tutorial

http://www.guruware.at/main/

Tree modeling with shag fur

http://www.3dm3.com/tutorials/tree/

Realistic leafs

http://www.peterguthrie.net/blog/2009/11/3d-tree-material-tutorial-leaves/

How to model a 3D hedge

http://www.cgdigest.com/how-to-model-a-3d-hedge/