Even though a DIY landscape seems like it’d be a fairly simple project (who doesn’t love spending time in the garden?), transforming a landscape on your own may not be the best use of your time and money.

Before you pull the trigger on your DIY yard, think about these other 5 valuable things a landscaper could add to your project:

1- Determine the ‘flow’ of your landscape

Designing your landscape for optimal functionality that suits your specific needs and home design.
Determining the best locations for hardscapes, pools, sheds, walkways, driveways and more.
Optimizing the use of your property by understanding spatial relationships to configure how all of the landscape elements will ‘connect’.
Making sense of it all – creating a cohesive master plan that will look great for years to come.

2 – Add their specialized experience and landscape knowledge to your vision

Having a professional knowledge of plant material helps landscapers select the proper plantings for the right place. This removes the possibility of expensive plants not surviving.
Increasing the longevity of plants and decreasing the amount of maintenance required—low maintenance landscapes look great all year with little upkeep!
Selecting hardscape materials for what will work best in your plan (for instance, many types and styles of stone and pavers are available for a patio and not all types of stone or pavers are suited to every situation). A designer can help you narrow your choices for what works for you.
Knowing the local climate and seasonal weather patterns prevents problems down the line.

3 – Give you new ideas

Creating a master plan of your property with a fresh perspective.
Providing a variety of layouts and explaining the pros and cons of each.
Including all of the features you would like and some features you hadn’t thought of.
Introducing you to different ideas for outdoor features that are new to you.
Offering a clear vision.
Problem-solving seating options, drainage issues, curb appeal and more.
Providing ideas on what to refurbish and what to replace.
Helping you explore cost-effective options and alternatives.

4 – Prevent costly mistakes

Helping you avoid spending money and time on plants that will underperform in your area.
Designating hardscape areas with the correct shapes, forms and locations so problems are avoided or resolved before construction.
Suggesting proper material selection for your region.
Recognizing challenges inherent in your yard and providing great solutions.
Outdoor living is an investment! It’s always best to go into it with professional guidance and support.

5 – Help plan for efficient construction

Ensuring that your project is sustainable and developed within your budget and time constraints.
Configuring details like lighting and irrigation that are crucial for long-term landscape usability.
Being able to forecast the cost and timeline for your project.

To summarize, a landscape designer can plan ahead for future work, get the optimal use of your yard for family and entertaining and add greatly to your home’s value. Whether you want a designer for your entire yard or just want to refurbish your yard, a landscape designer is well worth the money.