ADVANTAGES OF HIRING A LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

1. Plant knowledge

A landscape designer should have extensive plant knowledge in order to alleviate costly errors. Knowing the growing conditions of plants can save hundreds of dollars and much disappointment to everyone, including the plant. I’ve seen and heard many horror stories of the cute little one gallon potted plant that grew into an uncontrollable monster that took over the house!

2. Site condition assessment.

In order to create a meaningful design the designer should conduct a site analysis. A site analysis includes property measurements and notes of pre-existing conditions. Micro-climates are identified along with light, soil and pre-existing drainage conditions. It also can include identifying key elements in the landscape.

3. Planning.

When a garden is implemented from a well thought out landscape plan the result is a cohesive space that flows, makes sense and is aesthetically pleasing. The process of designing a landscape or garden takes into account all the needs, requirements and desires of the people involved in the process, in addition to addressing pre-existing site conditions and issues. This is the piece that sometimes gets missed when individuals do it themselves. I’ve seen so many people spend a lot of money, work for months and when the project was finished they were not happy with the results. Hiring a professional designer can save money in the long run.

A good designer should:

• Be a good listener.
• Have extensive plant and landscape materials knowledge.
• Make you happy.

When you hire a designer, ask for referrals and make sure you have a good feeling about this person. Your property is your personal space that you are entrusting to them and you want this to be a positive experience.