Estimating Your Landscape Design Cost

A common problem that many run into when starting a landscaping project is neglecting to figure in what the cost of their new landscape design will be. Some may people rush out and purchase plants so that they can get something in the ground right away. But without a proper plan, they may actually be wasting money.

What to Include in Your Landscape Design Costs

When it comes to landscaping, the sky can be the limit depending upon what the homeowner wants to do with their landscape. Of course, one of the biggest expenses is going to be plants, but there are other things to consider, including:

• Hiring a designer. Using a knowledgeable designer can help keep landscape design costs within reason.
• Improvements to existing site. Depending on the condition of the site, excavation or tree removal.
• Soil conditioning. If the soil is in poor condition or has poor drainage, soil remediation will be needed by adding topsoil and other materials if needed.
• Building materials. This may include fencing, walls, stones or paving materials.
• Delivery costs of materials. Because of the size and quantity that may be needed for the landscaping project, it may be necessary to have the landscaping materials delivered.
• Irrigation. If there isn’t an existing irrigation system, it may be necessary to have one installed, and even an existing system may need to be reconfigured by a licensed irrigation repair provider in order to meet the needs of the new design.
• Labor costs. This includes costs for having a landscaper do the landscaping work.
• Landscape accessories. This could include outdoor furniture, lighting or garden decor.
• Maintenance. Upkeep can be a chore depending upon the final design and installation. A professional landscape design company can minimize the need for ongoing grounds maintenance, but even the most friendly designs will require some level of upkeep and continual lawn care to maintain their beauty. Not a cost factor in the initial design, but one that should be considered through the design process.

By considering all these costs, the homeowner can get a good idea of what their costs will be for their new landscape design.