How to Create a Realistic Landscaping Budget

All landscaping requires a budget so planning one is essential, especially if there is much work to do. To get an idea of the cost of large projects such as building a patio, retaining walls or a water-feature, discuss it with professionals. While you may get some idea of costs from studying books, your block of land may be quite different than the one that featured project is costed on, and so your cost will be different. For instance, if you have a steep block, anything built on it will require more work on the foundations. If your block is boggy, then you may need extra attention to drainage.

Once you know exactly what you want, a professional will be able to advise you on your specific costs. If you are a handyman and can do most of your own work, then you’ll only need to factor in the cost of the materials you need. Of course, if you need help, then the cost of wages and insurance will need to be added.

Never try and cut costs by using cheap materials that are not really right for the job. This will end up costing you more at a later date as the thing could break, leak or not work properly. Don’t skip on foundation work for either a wall or a building. Strong foundations - even though they are not seen - are of prime importance for safety.

If your budget looks like it is going to blow out, then look to change things for a cheaper alternative rather than getting cheaper materials for the same job. For instance, you may consider changing a cement path to one of pebbles, stepping-stones or even simply plastic and mulch. Did you really need a brick or stonewall, or would one of bamboo fulfill your needs? Do you need a patio with foundations and a wooden floor, or would a shade cloth over lawn or pavers work as well?

Another way to save your budget is by purchasing plants that are not full-grown. While full-grown trees will certainly give you instant garden, the cost is many times that of the same tree at a few feet tall.

If you plan on staying in your home for many years, then you can stretch your plan over a number of years to get what you really want. The wait will be worth it and you could probably spend more over three or four years than if you did the same work in one year. Taking one step at a time will also ensure you don’t make some costly mistake, and it gives you time to change your mind if you find that what you first planned is not suitable.

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