Do-It-Yourself Landscaping: Evaluate, Plan & Execute

Whether a small bed or full transformation, decide what you can DIY and what needs a pro. Here's how to evaluate.

Analyze Your Skill Set

If your thumb is brown or design knowledge limited, start with research, basics, and small containers. Experienced gardeners with time can DIY, but an overall plan is essential for cohesion.

Figure Out Your Style

Your style determines DIY feasibility. Simple tweaks (beds, borders) suit DIY. Formal arrangements with hardscaping may need pros. "A landscape expresses homeowner's tastes and activities," says Michael Miller, Walden Backyards president.

Clear the Clutter

Remove overgrown elements and clutter first—great DIY tasks. This reveals hidden assets and helps establish a vision.

Consult an Expert

Even if DIY-confident, budget a small fee for a pro to evaluate ideas and create a concrete plan. Avoids "oops, wrong place" regrets. Helps think through all pieces, even future ones.

Consider a Hybrid Approach

Combine professional installation with DIY. Most homeowners over- or underestimate their capacity. Decide if you want to spend weekends breaking your back or hire help.

Break Out Pricing

Ask a designer to break down the plan by section and price so you can evaluate affordability.

Divide and Conquer

Phase over several years. Start front yard for curb appeal. Phasing allows paying for some tasks later while doing others now.

Don't Be Impulsive

Avoid sale purchases that create clutter. Research hardscaping like plants: evaluate budget, install, upkeep, and maintenance time. "Do your prep and be patient."

Allow Your Garden to Change

Family needs evolve. Young kids = tough, low-maintenance. Empty nesters = more time for projects. "Yards express how we want to live."

Set a Budget and Stick to It

Put real numbers to your plan. Be true to your budget. Work with designer to adjust if bids exceed it.

Set a Time Budget and Stick to It

Realistically assess when you can work. Don't overcommit and lose nice weekends.

Design online with Plan-a-Garden. Get more inspiration with our free garden plans.