Landscaping plan

chickaboo1974

DH and I bought a short sale last July- the yard was terible when we moved in.  We pulled weeds and tried to clean up a bit.  After cleaning up there are huge areas that the previous owners just let go- and they need totally redone.  I am at a total loss- I spent 5 years getting the flower beds and yard in shape at my old house- that was before twins.  I don't have the time for a lot of trial and error.  So what I am wondering is if anyone has hired someone ( a landscaper or a landscape architect) to listen to what you want and draw up a plan for plantings and such in flower beds? If you have how much was it?  I am okay doing the work and buying the plants- I enjoy gardening.

mscandyman

When we were looking at re-doing our front yard with new beds and a stone walkway, the three professionals we talked to offered this option.  Generally, they would charge between $250 - 350 for the plan.  Then, if you decided to actually have them do the work, they would take the 250 - 350 off the end price.  If you have the manpower and basic knowledge, this is a great option.  However, one thing that was not included in the DIY was a guarantee on the plants.  

pdxmouse

Also try a local nursery (not Lowe's or HD). Some of the ones around here have a small flat-fee or will draw up plans in exchange for you buying your plants through them. You'd still be doing the installation yourself in that case, more work, but a lot less $. 

Dr.Loretta

Years ago a friend's sister was starting a landscaping planning business. She charged by the hour. I had her come out for an hour, and she put together a lovely plan for me. $50 total.

~NB~

I draw landscape plans. They run several hundred $. I also do walk-around consultations on an hourly basis.

I charge more than most landscape designers I know, because I have more relevant education than most landscape designers I know.

TarHeels&Rebels

We've had it done twice in two different LCOLAs. One was $75, the other was $120. Very pleased with both designs. One woman owned a small nursery, the other guy went to school for it and I found him in the phone book. 

kcharris21

I think what you really need to do is assess what you would really like to have done with your yard. If you are looking to just have plantings and clean up maybe a simple plan from a local garden center may be your best bet. But if you are looking to create spaces/rooms, areas, have a lot of things that you would like to change or would like ideas, you may be better off contacting a landscape designer or architect. They are going to be better versed at creating a plan you can build off of  for years, whether you hire it out or DIY. These plans will be more expensive but you will get what you pay for in design quality and product specified and they will stand behind them. Make sure you tell the designer what you would like so they can design to your needs.

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