Spring is almost here, and we are all looking forward to getting outside! Redesigning your landscape is an exciting opportunity to enhance your property’s appearance, functionality, and value. But before breaking ground, it’s important to have clear communication with your landscape professional to ensure the final result meets your expectations. Asking the right questions can help you avoid costly mistakes and make the most of your investment. Here are a few essential questions to discuss with your landscape professional before getting started.

What Are My Goals for My Property? Before making any design choices, think about how you want to use your landscape. Do you want a low maintenance design? A space for employee lunches? More shade? Better drainage? Having a clear vision will help your landscape professional create a design that aligns with your needs.

What Works and What Doesn’t in My Current Landscape? A good landscape professional will assess your existing landscape to determine what should stay and what needs to change. Discuss current areas that don’t function well for you, what areas require more maintenance than you’re willing to provide, drainage issues, safety, and sun and shade.

What Plants and Materials Will Thrive in This Environment? Not all plants and materials are suitable for every climate and soil type. Ask your landscape professional about the best options for your area, taking into account: native and drought-tolerant plants for sustainability, how much maintenance each plant will require (again, be honest with what you’re willing to put into your landscape), and how big trees and shrubs will get over time. The right plant materials will keep your landscape looking great with minimal effort.

Can We Reuse or Relocate Any Existing Plants or Trees? Mature trees and established plants add character to a landscape, and replacing them can be expensive. Talk with your landscape professional about whether existing plants can be incorporated into the new design or relocated to a different area. If construction is involved, discuss how to protect valuable plants during the process. Keeping existing materials will also help your landscape look established amid the new plantings. However, reusing hardscape materials is generally not recommended as their stability may have changed over time. Only your contractor can tell you if they are reusable.

What Will the Landscape Look Like Over Time? Landscaping isn’t just about how things look today—it’s an investment for the future. Ask about how trees and plants will grow and fill in over time, if your design will still be functional in 10–20 years, and very importantly, a plan for replacing plants as they reach the end of their lifespan.

How Will Maintenance Be Handled? Even the best landscape design requires upkeep. Ask about how much maintenance your new landscape will need, whether you can care for it inhouse, or add it to your existing corporate budget?

What’s the Budget and Timeline? Setting clear expectations for costs and timing is essential. Don’t be afraid to tell your landscape professional your budget. They won’t automatically charge you that full amount, but they will be able to design a realistic design for your property. Discuss with them the total estimated cost, including labor and materials, payment process, how long the project will take, and possible disruptions during the process – and please be patient as the industry is very weather dependent. Redesigning your landscape is an investment that should be both beautiful and functional. By asking these key questions, you’ll ensure your new landscape meets your needs now and in the future. Work closely with your landscape professional, and you’ll create an outdoor space that enhances your property and brings you lasting enjoyment.