Whether you’re redoing a garden bed or redoing your entire front yard, these expert tips will make the effort easier on your wallet.
Many of us put off landscaping our yards for one reason: It’s too expensive. But whether you’re looking to create a new seating area, create an elaborate new planting bed, or redesign your entire front yard, there are ways to keep it affordable. We spoke to two experts about their top tips for saving money on a new landscaping project.
1. Buy Small
Buying plants, shrubs, and trees in small quantities is one of the best ways to save money on your landscaping project. “Plant small and let time be the investor,” says Molly Hendry, owner of Roots & Ramblings, a garden design firm in Alabama. “A small tree will reach its larger counterparts in a few growing seasons.”
2. Invest in the bones
Another great way to save money is to invest wisely in the bones of your yard — avoiding mistakes you’ll have to spend money to fix later, says Hendry: “High-quality materials like hardscape, trees, and structural shrubs should be a top priority in your budget,” he says. “So it may be more money up front, but it will pay dividends down the road. Invest in qualified professionals to create hardscape elements and buy quality trees.”
He also says it’s important to take the time to plant everything properly: “You’ll need to dig a million-dollar hole to set those trees and shrubs in place for long-term success.”
3. Check for rebates
Replacing your lawn with low-water, pollinator-friendly plants or planting a tree could qualify you for a significant rebate on your project. Check with your city and local water company to see what rebates you might qualify for.
4. Buy Reclaimed Materials
Garage sales, Facebook Marketplaces, your local Buy Nothing group, and stores that specialize in reused building materials can all be great sources for cheap or free landscaping items like pavers, rocks, and decorative elements.
5. Find Free Landscaping
Mulch and compost are the cornerstones of many landscaping projects, but they can be expensive if you buy them in bulk. However, some local tree services and city programs provide mulch for free, and many municipalities also offer free compost for collection.
If you have a lot of fallen leaves in the fall, you can make your own mulch — shred them with your lawn mower and spread them where you need them in your yard. And while it takes time, you can also make your own compost to turn over garden beds.
6. Landscaping in Phases
Sometimes, it makes more sense to chip away at your budget for a landscaping project over a few years. “Staging your plantings is a great way to save money and get the desired landscaping results,” says Texas-based landscape designer Kathy Hubner. “Start by planting larger specimen plants, such as trees and basic ornamentals, that will create a garden layout. Mulch the unplanted areas neatly until it’s time for the next planting phase. The result is a finished design that’s on time and on budget.”
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