What To Expect When You Hire A Landscaper

Posted January 24, 2008 by Shannon Shimizu

What To Expect When You Hire a Landscaper

Landscaping your home can be a big endeavor. There are several options including plants, hardscapes, softscapes, fountains, ground cover, etc. Hiring a landscape professional to help you through the process can be extremely helpful. Here is a brief rundown of the process from beginning to end.

A Base Map is drafted: After measurements and photos are taken, a base map, showing the existing property conditions is drafted to scale.

A Site Analysis Diagram: The first stage will consist of a tracing paper overlay on the base map of the property, showing circulation and weather patterns, orientation of the house to the site, and identifying the placement of functional areas within the site, and their relationship to one another. Problem areas are identified, screening and views are shown.

A Concept Sketch: The second stage will be a conceptual layout of the property, further refining circulation with specific pathways, patios or decking drawn in more detail. The shapes of planting areas and hardscape elements are defined to reflect the various possibilities.

A Final Planting Plan: After a meeting with you, a final plan is drafted, identifying the specifics of all the planting and hardscape elements. A planting list should be provided including specifications and perspective or elevation sketches to aid you in visualizing the plan view, Discuss implementation of the installation, phasing, and maintenance of your landscape with your landscaping professional.

After your planting plan is finalized, the landscaper starts to work implementing what you have discussed. Sit back, relax, and soon you will be enjoying your new yard, garden, or backyard retreat.