The biggest question people ask themselves at the start of any new landscaping project is this: should I hire a landscaper, or can I do it myself?
For some, the prospect of a DIY landscaping project is an exciting conquest and they can’t wait to get their hands dirty. For others, the very thought of it has them reaching for the phone seeking professional help.
Bringing your dream outdoor space to life doesn’t have to be a stressful affair, but it absolutely can be without the right help and advice. Landscape projects are as unique as the person carrying them out, and there are an overwhelming number of options out there for getting them done.
Let’s take a closer look at some of these options so you can make an informed decision about the best way to complete your next landscape project.
How hard is it to DIY my landscape project?
DIY landscape projects can be really rewarding experiences, provided you arm yourself with the right information and tools!
According to our very own Suzie Shearer, installing a new lawn is child’s play, and with good preparation and advice, anyone can do it.
As to how hard it is to DIY your specific project, well that depends on what you have in mind. If you’ve already done your research and are still questioning whether you’ll be able to get it done yourself, we’d suggest speaking with a landscaper who can give you professional advice on what to expect.
Our team at Coolabah Turf offers free lawn care advice for the life of every lawn we sell, so that option is open to you as well.
How can a professional landscaper help me?
According to The Garden Planners’ co-director and qualified horticultural technician Craig Turner, plants aren’t expensive, but design mistakes are.
Time after time, landowners who try to save money by completing their garden design themselves are later left with the larger bill for plants that couldn’t survive and a dysfunctional outdoor space that doesn’t work for them, he said.
Often in the end, clients end up saving money by engaging a landscape designer from the start, because they save on the time and money they would have spent rectifying any mistakes with their original plan.
Landscapers and landscape designers are there to provide practical and affordable advice that is tailored to the client’s needs, as well as their vision for their ideal outdoor space. Hiring a professional landscaper can save you time, money and stress.
Is it worth it to employ a professional landscaper?
Just like you wouldn’t travel to an unknown place without a map––embarking on a landscape project without a design plan can be a recipe for disaster. These are just a few reasons why hiring a professional is 100% worth it:
Site Analysis
A professional has the skills and expertise to interpret your soil type, level of drainage, amount of shade and traffic areas in order to recommend a design that suits not only your unique environment, but is functional for your space and lifestyle.
Conceptual Design
Once a landscape professional has a complete understanding of your environment, lifestyle and tastes, they can provide you with a professional landscape design that will include all the hardscape and planting requirements, along with quantities and species varieties. This will ensure the end result is a perfect fit for you.
Budget
By employing a professional, you can set a budget and be guaranteed a total price upfront. They may also be able to recommend areas you can save money or areas that may be worth investing more in.
Time Saved
The knowledge and experience of a professional can help make the process of completing your project quicker and smoother for all involved. From design to construction, a professional landscaper takes the hassle out of planning and implementing your project so you have more time for the important things.
How do I pick the best landscaper for my needs?
Once you’ve decided to enlist the services of a professional, the next question is who to choose? There are a variety of different landscape professionals out there, so it’s important to know the differences between each.
Landscape Architect
Landscape architects are professionally trained and have a university degree that covers studies in construction design, ecological and environmental studies and land management. They are best suited to larger projects or when dealing with difficult architectural issues.
Landscape Designer
Landscape designers design outdoor spaces and gardens by preparing detailed plans to suit the client’s taste and budget. A Certificate IV in Horticulture is a prerequisite to study landscape design and provides a thorough understanding of plants, agriculture, soil, pests and diseases, maintenance, weed control, irrigation and turf.
Landscaper
Landscapers carry out the physical work of the project, and are often skilled across a number of trades including concreting, paving, turf and irrigation etc. Most will have completed an industry apprenticeship in sports turf management or landscaping and are usually highly skilled in areas like planning, site construction and ground preparation and irrigation.
Once you’ve settled on the type of landscape professional you need to employ, make sure to do your research and find the person who’s going to do the best job for you. Talk to friends and family and find out who in the community has a solid reputation and positive reviews. Check out their credentials and make sure to have a chat with them before you hire them––if they can’t talk with you and understand your needs, your project could be a long, frustrating process!
Get In Touch
If you would like some help with your next DIY project, our Coolabah team is here to help. Or, if you’re looking to engage the services of a landscape professional to wave a magic wand and just make it all happen, give us a call for a full list of recommended contractors best suited to you. Get in touch with us here.
