If you've just moved into a new house, or are simply looking to update your yard with some new plants and features, you'll need to invest some time and money into landscaping. Although landscaping can be pricey, there are several ways to save money on landscaping materials and services. If you're interested in developing some strategies on cheap landscaping, read on to learn how to landscape on a budget.
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If you've just moved into a new house, or are simply looking to update your yard with some new plants and features, you'll need to invest some time and money into landscaping. Although landscaping can be pricey, there are several ways to save money on landscaping materials and services. If you're interested in developing some strategies on cheap landscaping, read on to learn how to landscape on a budget.
Introduction
- Having a beautifully landscaped yard can make you the envy of your friends and neighbors. Designing your own yard and creating a space that is of your own creation can not only be rewarding, but will also make it enjoyable to spend time in your yard. Depending on how much work you are planning on doing, landscaping services and materials can cost hundreds and even thousands of dollars. Luckily for those of us who are on a strict budget, there are several ways to save money on landscaping.
Step 1: Make a Plan
- Before you begin any landscaping work, formulate a plan and a budget. Figure out how much money you have and are willing to spend on your landscaping project. If you have a lot of landscaping to do and are have a limited amount of cash, you may have to spread your landscaping project over a few years.
Next, observe your yard to figure out which areas get sunlight and when. Do some research into what types of plants you would like to have in your yard and then figure out how much sunlight they need. Use this information to draw up a map of your yard, detailing what shrubs, trees, flowers and plants you want to place in which areas. This should eliminate the chances of placing certain plants in areas where they will not flourish and could potentially die.
Annuals vs. Perennials
- During the planning stage, also weigh the pros and cons of planting perennials over annuals. Perennials are plants that will grow back each year, while annuals will die in the fall and need to be planted again each spring. Although perennials are initially more expensive, planting them may save money in the long run.
Step 2: Do it Yourself or Hire a Pro?
- With your plan, figure out how much of the landscaping work you will be able to do yourself. If you are not planting any large trees or doing major construction work, you may be able to do all the work yourself. You may also want to ask your friends and family if they would be willing to help you with your yard work.
If your plan includes major construction, tree or stump removal, or planting very large trees or shrubs, you may have to hire a professional landscaper. Figure out how much work you will need your hired landscaper to do and then get estimates from a few companies—many landscapers offer free estimates. For more detailed information on hiring a professional to help you with your yard work, check out Mahalo's guide on how to hire a landscaper.
Step 3: Use Local Resources
- When it comes to getting plants trees and shrubs, don't immediately run out to your local garden center. You may be able to get plants much more cheaply or even for free by:
- Visiting your local gardening or horticultural society: Some may hold plant giveaways during the early season or offer plants at substantially reduced prices
- Attending garden or home improvement shows
- Organizing a plant exchange among family and friends
- Keeping an eye out for sales and special offers
- Buying late in the season: Plan for the next spring by buying bulbs in the fall. You can store them in your basement or garage over the winter and then plant them the following year
Rather than spending a large amount of money on garden tools and equipment that you are unlikely to use again, borrow them from friends or neighbors or rent them from a rental company. If you have a lot of easy but labor-intensive work to do, such as laying sod or patio stones, ask neighborhood teenagers if they would be willing to help out for a small fee.
Conclusion
Whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional landscaper, having a beautifully landscaped yard will bring you enjoyment for many years and the project need not be a burden on your pocketbook. By formulating a realistic and well-thought out plan before you begin and using local resources to get your plants, trees and shrubs, you will be able to save a great deal of money on your landscaping costs.
