Expert tips to kickstart your dream landscaping project

To prevent any nasty surprises down the line, it's essential to do some homework before hiring a landscaper. Chris and Ryan recommend speaking with the landscaper’s previous customers and, if possible, visiting some of their completed projects. This way, you can see the quality of their work firsthand and hear an honest word or two from their past clients! 

Another crucial tip: choose the landscaper you feel most comfortable with, not just the one offering the lowest quote. You can always negotiate prices with the landscaper you like best, but trusting the tradesperson who enters your home should always be the priority. Remember, you shouldn't feel pressured to go with someone just because they're cheaper.  

Whilst starting any garden improvement is exciting, it’s important to understand the factors that can influence the cost.  

The size and complexity of the project are obvious components, but location can also play a big role in determining the amount of money you’ll spend. For example, if you're based in central London, materials and parking rates might be significantly higher than in more rural areas of the country. Additionally, obstacles such as limited garden access could set your project back, meaning you may endure increased costs.  

The type of materials you choose can also impact the price. For instance, patio pavers can range anywhere from £20 per square meter to as much as £85 per square meter, depending on the style and quality you opt for. Being realistic about your needs can ensure you stay within budget.  

Finally, the element to eat the biggest chunk of your funds is going to be labour. Landscaping often involves a variety of tasks including fencing, patio laying, building retaining walls, creating ponds, constructing outbuildings; the list is endless! It’s important that you bear in mind the various activities your landscaper may need to undertake, then calculate your budget accordingly.  

Part and parcel of living in Britain is accepting our country’s unpredictable weather. So, when the sunshine finally blesses our skies, most of us are keen on making the most of it! With this in mind, one of the most popular requests Chris and Ryan receive leading up to the warmer months is the patio installation.

A patio offers a versatile area to host summer BBQs, relax and unwind with loved ones, and enjoy the rays – a functional and timeless addition that your garden may be yearning for.  

We’re not all naturally green-fingered! If you lack the desire or time to maintain your garden, there are plenty of options to ensure your space continues to look amazing with minimal effort.  

When tasked with creating a low-maintenance garden, one approach Chris and Ryan would take is to create a larger patio area, combined with edging borders filled with stone or woodchip. They say this style not only looks neat and tidy but reduces the need for constant weeding and upkeep.  

If you prefer the look of a lawn without the hassle, you could also consider artificial grass, which stays green all year round. The key is to keep things simple and do what works for you. 

Over the years, Chris and Ryan have tackled some unique and challenging projects. One of the most unusual requests they've received was to extend a pond and re-build a 100-meter stream.  

This involved using reinforced concrete, render, and pond sealant to connect the stream to a lower pond. It's a perfect example of how creative landscaping can turn even the wildest ideas into reality.  

With the right team on your side, the limit really is your imagination. Even if they seem unrealistic, discuss your ideas with prospective landscapers to see what’s possible. 

Landscaping is about more than just creating a good-looking garden; it's about building a space you can enjoy for years to come. However ambitious – or basic – your plans, it all starts with choosing the right landscaper.  

Take your time, do your research, and don't be afraid to ask questions. With the right approach, you'll end up with an outdoor space you can truly fall in love with. 

If you're ready to transform your garden, post a free enquiry to let your local landscapers know or check out garden and landscaping services near you. 

Chris (Director), and Ryan (landscaping expert) work at Soper Home Garden & Maintenance, a five-star landscaping company transforming outdoor spaces across Horley and beyond. Dedicated to finding the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics, they create bespoke landscape designs and installations with the customer’s vision at the heart, advocating the importance of investing in your garden’s potential. All provided cost information within the article comes from Chris and Ryan’s own industry experience.