Landscaping Contractors Near You

What is the Difference Between a Landscape Architect, a Garden/Landscape Designer, a Landscape Contractor, and a Landscape Gardener?

The terms for different landscape professionals can be confusing. However, it’s important to know the differences before you hire a landscaper for your project.

• Landscape architects have been licensed by the state and have undergone a bachelor’s or master’s degree in landscape architecture. They create a construction plan for your project.
• Garden/landscape designers usually work on smaller, residential projects. They often only work with “softscape” elements — plants. They create a planting scheme plan.
• Landscape contractors implement the landscape designs.
• Landscape gardeners maintain greenspaces after the designs have been implemented.
  
  

These roles do tend to overlap and some landscaping companies offer a variety of services. Ask the local landscape professionals you’re considering what services they offer before you make a selection.

 

What Landscape Elements are the Easiest to Maintain?

Before you fall in love with a landscape design, it’s important to consider upkeep. The following garden features can help you have a low-maintenance garden.

• Stonework, gravel, mulch, and pebbles
• Climate-specific grass
• Artificial grass
• Native plants
• Potted plants
  
  

Local landscapers in your area will know which plants will thrive in your climate. When you hire a landscaper, ask about the required maintenance before deciding on a landscape design.

 

What Should I Expect During the Landscape Process?

You may be wondering what a landscaper does. Each landscaping service provider may have a different process. When contacting potential local landscapers, you should ask about the typical process they take with their clients. Their process may include:

• An initial meeting to discuss your goals for the project, your budget, and desired features and style
• Presenting a design concept and talking over edits to the plan
• Creating a detailed plan, including the plants that will be used
• Going to a local nursery to pick out the plants
• Implementing the project