What this covers
Landscape design turns a yard into a plan before anything is dug. The designer studies the site: sun and shade, soil, slopes, where water runs, existing trees and how you use the space. The plan lays out beds, lawn, paths, patios, lighting and irrigation, and picks plants suited to the climate and the spot, spaced for their mature size. Careful design solves drainage and access first and leaves room for the plants to grow. Larger plans are often built in phases.
When to call
- A new home with a bare or builder-grade yard.
- A yard rebuilt after construction, a removal or storm damage.
- Beds that are overgrown, patchy or hard to maintain.
- A wish to use less water or mow less lawn.
What to expect
- Site visitThe designer measures the yard and notes sun, soil, slopes and drainage.
- ConceptA first layout shows beds, paths, lawn and main features for your review.
- Final planThe plan is refined with plant lists, materials and phasing.
- InstallThe crew prepares the ground and builds and plants to the plan.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
Why spend on a plan before planting?
A plan sorts out drainage, access and plant spacing before money goes into the ground, and lets the work be done in stages that fit together.
What is a low-water landscape?
A design built around plants suited to the local rainfall, with less lawn, mulch or gravel to hold moisture, and efficient irrigation where it is still needed.
How long until it looks finished?
Hardscape and lawn look complete right away. Shrubs and perennials usually take a few growing seasons to fill in, which the plan allows for.
Related: Hardscaping · Irrigation systems · Yard grading and drainage · All landscaping and yard
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.