How to Work With a Landscape Professional

Even if you excel at interior decorating, landscape design presents unique challenges that may leave you stumped. It requires a totally different skill set and changes over time — flowers wither, trees mature, shrubs spread. That's where a landscape pro proves invaluable. Follow our tips for finding, hiring, and working with landscapers to make your yard the neighborhood envy.

Determine Which Pro Suits Your Needs

Before starting, identify the skill set matching your project scope.

• Landscape architects typically hold advanced degrees and develop comprehensive structural and aesthetic plans including hardscaping, water use, drainage, plant selection, and garden design. Plans may include house exterior modifications.
• Landscape designers may or may not have advanced training. They often specialize in aesthetic and horticultural planning, though many handle structural work too.
• Landscape contractors implement plans from architects or designers. Some also provide design services. Depending on your vision, you may need any or all of these professionals.

Exteriors By Chad Robert

Set a Budget

Just like interior projects, have a firm spending idea before contacting a pro. This gives the landscaper a starting point and parameters, saving both parties frustration. You won't fall in love with unaffordable sketches, and pros won't waste time on plans that get scratched. With a target cost, pros can suggest creative solutions stretching your budget.

Scout Potential Sources

Ask friends with stunning gardens if they use professional help. Local botanical gardens and homebuilders' associations are other good sources.

Barenz Builders

Check Licensing and References

Verify certification requirements in your area — especially for safety-related elements like decks and retaining walls. Confirm licensure for every pro considered. Get references from 2-3 finalists and check them diligently. Satisfied past clients suggest you'll be pleased too.

Provide Helpful Documents

Your pro will conduct an initial site visit but will likely need your property plat to start design work, especially with building permits. You may also complete a questionnaire to help them understand your needs thoroughly.

Samuel H. Williamson Associates

Know the Look You Want

Have a basic idea of preferred style and maintenance level. Formal or free-form? Benign neglect or high-care specimens? Paths, pavers, hardscaping? Watering preferences? Direction helps pros fine-tune options.

Allow room for creativity — your landscaper's imagination and expertise are why you hired them. Be open to feedback. Don't automatically reject plants you dislike; they may gain new appeal in the right overall scheme.

Andrew Renn

Establish a Maintenance Plan

Once the crew leaves, you're responsible for upkeep. If handling it yourself, your pro should provide a task outline with timing and frequency. If hiring a gardener, ask for recommendations. Some companies offer both services — check if that's the case.