A well-maintained landscape makes the property look cohesive and harmonious. However, landscaping comes with some cost. In general it may cost around $2,600 on the low end, while if you go for a complete maintenance and landscaping, it may cost you around $13,700.
This is just an overall estimate. But, finding the right hourly rate can be tricky. So, we have curated this guide to help you understand how much landscapers charge per hour.
How Much Does Landscapers Charge Per Hour?
Landscaping is an umbrella term for planning, designing, preparing, and planting trees and shrubs of your desire, altering the terrain, and installing patios, walkways, etc. It basically involves maintaining the appearance and functionality of the garden. It improves the value of the property and improves the aesthetic of the front yard.
The landscaping project is better left to the professional as they have proper knowledge and save you time and efforts. If you think they might charge you more, well, the results are worth every dollar. Landscapers charge around $50 to $100 per hour for a 2 person crew, with an average of about $75. However, the Cost varies depending on the size of the yard, material used, type of project, etc.
Landscaping Cost Per Square Foot
It is important to determine the Cost per Sq. Ft., as it helps get an overall estimate of the project. You can expect landscaping to cost from $4 to $17 per square foot. However, the average may cost up to $11 per square foot.
Many residential properties have an area of 0.2 acres or 8000+ square feet. Out of this, only a part of it is landscaped. So, services limited to planting flowers, grass, thatching, etc., require less investment compared to complete remodeling.
| Area Landscapped | Cost |
| 250 Square Feet | $3,250 |
| 500 Square Feet | $5,500 |
| 750 Square Feet | $8,250 |
| 1,000 Square Feet | $11,000 |
Landscaping Cost Per Project
The Cost of landscaping varies depending on the type of project. Simple tasks may cost you less as compared to comprehensive projects like water fountain, sod, and sprinkler installation, in addition to several other factors as mentioned below -
| Project Type | Cost |
| Gravel Installation | $990 |
| Landscape Curbing | $1,475 |
| Landscape Design | $4,500 |
| Lawn Aeration | $865 |
| Lawn Grading | $2,000 |
| Lawn Mowing | $90 |
| Lawn Seeding | $992 |
| Mulching | $137 |
| Pond Installation | $4,625 |
| Retaining Walls | $5,060 |
| Sod Installation | $2,000 |
| Sprinkler Installation | $3,500 |
| Tree Trimming | $850 |
| Water Fountain | $2,750 |
Cost of Landscaping Materials
Landscaping materials are easy to put in the pocket when counted on a square foot or cubic foot basis. However, the overall Cost of the materials needed can be high, as mentioned below -
| Material | Cost |
| Lawn Turf | $12.50 per square foot |
| Lawn Replacement | $1.50 per square foot |
| Mulch | $90 per cubic yard |
Rocks and Masonry Costs
Rocks and masonry are important to consider, as they add aesthetic to your yard and also increase the value of your property. They are used to make patios, pathways, etc., in addition to preventing soil from eroding away. Moreover, they improve drainage in the area. Here is the list of Costs -
| Materials Required | Low Cost - High Cost | Average Cost |
| Boulders | $100/ton - $600/ton | $350/ton |
| Crushed Stones | $1 per square foot - $2 per square foot | $1.50 per square foot |
| Stepping Stones | $100/step - $300/step | $400/step |
| River Rocks | $100/ton - $800/ton | $450/ton |
Landscape Cost by Type
Landscaping is mostly divided into three parts - softscaping, hardscaping, and xeriscaping. The price differs for all of them, as mentioned below -
| Landscaping Type | Cost | Average Cost |
| Softscaping | $800 - $10,000 | $5,400 |
| Hardscaping | $1,000 - $24,000 | $12,500 |
| Xeriscaping | $13,500 - $19,000 | $15,500 |
Landscape Maintenance Cost
Landscaping maintenance costs may range from $100 to $300 per month, depending on the size of your yard. The services may include - lawn care, gardening, and general yard maintenance, depending on the type of landscaping company you are opting for. Here is an estimate of maintenance cost -
| Landscaping Maintenance | Average Cost Per Month |
| Maximum Cost | $300 |
| Minimum Cost | $100 |
| Total Average Cost | $100 - $200 |
| Important | The costs mentioned above are just for knowledge purposes. For exact estimates, get in touch with your nearest landscaping companies. |
How to Save on Commercial Landscaping?
If you want to save on landscaping without spending too much, here’s how you can do it -
Select Cost-Effective Plants
Save money by going for cost-effective plants, such as - hostas, daylilies, creeping thyme, in addition to several other plants. They not only enhance the beauty of your garden but also cut down the maintenance time and effort.
Use Native Plants
Native plants are best for landscaping, as they thrive well in soils, moisture, and the climate of the region. Also, they require minimal extra fertilizer and watering. Examples of native plants are - piyon tree, prickly pear, date plum, etc.
Take Advantage of Seasonal Sale
Many home improvement and landscaping companies offer affordable and discounted servicing during a particular time of the year. You’ll mainly get these offers on their websites and social media pages.
Opt for Efficient Landscape Design
An energy-efficient landscape that requires less maintenance, which means it’ll cost you less. Efficient landscaping ideas includes - water conservation, windbreaks, shade, arbors, and permeable groundcovers.
Install Energy-Saving Lighting
LEDs and solar-powered lights are the best when it comes to saving energy and money. Although the installation cost might seem higher, it offers long-term energy bill savings and lower maintenance cost.
What Are the Most Affordable Landscaping Designs?
When it comes to landscaping, a little goes a long way. Also, this does not mean you have to settle for an untidy and half-done yard. There are several budget-friendly options that you can incorporate for an aesthetic lawn and garden -
Plant Groundcover
Groundcover plants are Cost effective and look best. This is because you need to plant only a few, and they spread on their own. Also, they don’t require much watering or fertilization, which will save you money and maintenance time.
Install a DIY Water Features
Working with a professional to install a water fountain or conservation might be costly. However, modern pumps and pond liners are available at cheaper rates that are easy to install. All you need to do is build a small foundation, a small winding waterfall, or a pond in your yard.
Use Xeriscaping Methods
Xeriscaping, earlier, was used in hot and arid regions. However, it is quite popular in other regions as well. This involves planting drought-resistant plants, as a part of water-conversation strategy.
Opt for Easy-Growing Perennials
Some perennials, such as - bleeding hearts, yellow alyssum, Russian sage, etc., grow well in the shade. They come back every year - which means you don’t have to replant or replace them with other plants. Thus helping you save money.
How to Find Cost-Effective Landscaping Services?
Here are a few simple ways to find affordable landscaping services -
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Decide how you want your lawn to be.
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Determine how much you’re willing to spend.
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Research your local landscaping companies.
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Compare pricing from different service providers.
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Choose low-maintenance landscaping options, such as perennials, stone paths, etc.
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Take advantage of the seasonal discounts, such as winter and late summer opportunities.
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Last, but not the least, try DIY-ing. For example, try planting a shrub on your own, water the plants, trim them, etc.
Conclusion
As landscaping is determined by several factors, it is better to get in touch with a professional. They can assess the extent and complexity of the work to be done and give you an overall estimate. Also, if required, they break down the Costs to ensure you understand them well.
