It is written from our perspective (expert landscape design and installation company) focusing on clarity, trust-building, and setting clear expectations for clients.
Frequently Asked Questions: Landscape Design & Installation
Welcome to our FAQ page! Whether you are looking to refresh a single garden bed or completely transform your outdoor living space, we are here to guide you through every step of the process. Below are the answers to the questions we hear most often.
📅 The Design & Consultation Process
What is the difference between landscape design and landscape installation?
Think of landscape design as the blueprint phase. It involves assessing your property, discussing your goals, and creating a detailed layout of your future yard. Landscape installation is the actual construction and planting phase—bringing that design to life with excavation, hardscaping, and planting.
How should I prepare for my initial design consultation?
To get the most out of our first meeting, we recommend that you:
• Gather inspiration photos (from Pinterest, Instagram, or magazines) that show styles you love.
• Make a list of your must-haves vs. your nice-to-haves (e.g., privacy screening, an entertainment patio, low-maintenance plants).
• Have an approximate budget in mind so we can design a space that aligns with your financial comfort zone.
Can I choose the specific plants and materials for my project?
Absolutely! We view design as a partnership. While our team will recommend specific plants and materials that will thrive in your soil, sun exposure, and climate zone, you have the final say on the overall aesthetic, colors, and textures.
💰 Budgets, Timelines, & Logistics
How much does a typical landscaping project cost?
Because every property and design is unique, costs vary widely based on materials, size, and scope. A helpful industry rule of thumb for a major landscape overhaul is to budget roughly 10% to 20% of your home’s value. For smaller refreshes, like updating specific garden beds or adding a simple walkway, we can easily tailor a plan to fit a specific budget. We offer specific options for you to select from to get started.
How long will the installation take? Every project is different so this is only an example)
• Small to Medium Projects (e.g., plant installation, mulching, small walkways): 2 to 5 days.
• Large-Scale Transformations (e.g., major hardscaping, retaining walls, multi-level patios): 2 to 4+ weeks.
• Please note: Inclement weather and material availability can occasionally shift timelines, but we will always keep you updated.
When is the best time of year to start a landscaping project?
Hardscaping construction can take place anytime the ground isn’t frozen. For planting, early spring and early fall are the absolute best times. The milder temperatures significantly reduce transplant shock, giving new trees, shrubs, and perennials the best environment to establish deep, healthy root systems.
🛠️ Permits, Drainage, & Construction
Do I need to get permits or HOA approval for my project?
• Softscaping (planting trees, shrubs, flowers, or spreading mulch) rarely requires a permit.
• Hardscaping (patios, retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, or structural features) often requires local building permits depending on your township.
• HOAs: If you live in a homeowner’s association, you will likely need written approval before work begins. We can assist you with the necessary drawings and documentation for your application.
My yard has terrible drainage. Can landscaping fix this?
Yes. Proper grading and water management are foundational to any successful landscape. Depending on your property’s needs, we can resolve pooling water and runoff issues using French drains, catch basins, dry creek beds, or beautifully engineered rain gardens that manage water naturally.
🌱 Care, Maintenance, & Guarantees
How often should I water my new plants and lawn after installation?
Proper watering is critical during the first growing season:
• Trees & Shrubs: Require deep watering 2 to 3 times a week (more during hot, dry spells) rather than frequent light splashes.
• New Sod or Seed: Must be kept consistently moist. This usually requires light watering 1 to 2 times daily for the first 2 to 3 weeks until roots take hold.
Do you offer a warranty on your work and plants?
Yes, we stand behind the quality of our craftsmanship and materials.
• Hardscapes: Our stone and paver installations come with a workmanship warranty, and many premium paver manufacturers offer limited lifetime warranties on the stones themselves.
• Plants: We offer a warranty on newly installed trees and shrubs for a specified period (typically one growing season or one full year), provided they have been cared for with proper watering.
Have a question we didn’t answer here?
We’d love to talk about your specific ideas! Contact (text or call) Kaitlyn, Landscape Designer at 860-405-6055 to connect with our team today.
