Start Early

Depending on the amount of work you need, experts recommend starting your landscape planning six months to a year before you want the landscape to be ready. The planning process can take much longer than expected, so starting early gives you more time to assess the site, coordinate with contractors, and source plants and materials.

Starting early also allows more flexibility if schedules change or unexpected issues arise.

Think in Stages

Even if you’re not ready to begin planning your new landscape, consulting a designer early can provide valuable feedback and direction. It is helpful for designers to see your property in full growth, before leaves fall, so they can better understand the site.

You don’t have to complete the entire yard at once. Garden coaches and designers can help create staggered installation plans that can be completed over several years.

For new construction, the house usually comes first, but having a landscape designer consult with the architect during the planning stages can significantly improve the usability of the yard.

Plan First, Build Second, Plant Third

Plants should generally be the last part of the process. Landscaping is largely about shaping and organizing the land first.

Hardscaping design and construction, including paving, walls, steps, sheds, and water features, generally come first. Utilities such as plumbing and lighting follow, and planting comes afterward.

Proper grading and drainage create a foundation for healthy soil and plants, while thoughtful design establishes functional pathways, outlets, hose spigots, lighting, and other features.

When creating a new patio or similar area, consider adding plumbing or electrical conduit during construction so features such as a hot tub, outdoor kitchen, or lighting can be added later.

Choosing the Right Pros

If you only need help with plant selection and layout in an existing bed, a garden designer or garden coach may be the best choice. For projects involving hardscaping, consider hiring a landscape architect or certified landscape designer.

Landscape design can involve grading, drainage, irrigation, lighting, planting, walls, pathways, and other construction details. A professional can help ensure that these elements work together from the beginning.

Using a designer alongside contractors can also be helpful. Contractors may focus primarily on efficient or cost-effective construction, while designers can provide guidance on long-term function and aesthetics.

The Best Seasons for Every Step

Spring or summer: Hardscaping, especially construction involving plumbing, is generally best done in spring or summer to avoid heavy rain or frost.

Fall: Fall is an excellent season for planting because warm soil and upcoming rainfall can support plant establishment while reducing the need for irrigation. Summer planting can require significantly more water and may result in greater plant loss.

Fall or early winter: These seasons can be ideal for having a landscape installed because you are less likely to be actively using the yard while construction is underway.

Winter: In mild regions, planting can continue as long as the ground isn't frozen. Although a newly planted winter landscape may initially look unimpressive, plants can become much more attractive when they begin growing in spring.

If weather conditions aren't suitable for planting or desired plants aren't available, temporary markers can be used to identify where spring plantings will go.

Where to Find Ideas and Inspiration

• Collect inspiration photos on online Pinterest boards or create a vision board from magazine images.
• Identify styles and features you like and consider how you want to use your yard.
• Visit public and private gardens for ideas.
• Create a wish list of your favorite features, such as a spot for coffee with a view, a place for napping, a sauna, a cutting garden, or a firepit for entertaining.
• Compare designers' websites and previous projects to find one that matches your overall vision.