While icy temperatures and a couple of feet of snow may not make one immediately think of landscaping design, winter is actually the perfect time to plan your landscaping construction project. At Musser Landscaping, we assist Tri-Cities homeowners in designing and executing a beautiful outdoor space. If you have been contemplating a new landscaping project for this coming year, we encourage you to start planning now, and here is why!
Why Winter is Ideal for Landscaping Design Planning:
#1: Early Scheduling
Once the snow melts away, the temperatures warm, and the birds begin to sing, everyone’s minds will turn to the outdoors. At this time, there will be a massive rush of landscaping projects homeowners want to address, but professional landscapers only have so much time. By planning your landscaping design project now, you can secure a spot on your landscaper’s spring schedule before it fills up.
#2: Ample Time for Design
Speaking of that springtime rush, there is a small window during those first few weeks of spring where landscaping design should be implemented. Unfortunately, this is when people typically start planning, resulting in rushed plans or missed opportunities.
Using the winter months to carefully plan your outdoor space with your landscaping team gives you ample time to efficiently and beautifully craft your new space, including garden layouts, hardscaping features, and irrigation systems. Then, while everybody else is still rushing around to work on their projects, you will already be done and enjoying your new space.
#3: Permits and Approvals
If you are planning a landscaping construction project, you will often need to obtain permits. For example, suppose you are adding a deck, patio, fence, retaining wall, or even a water feature like a pond or in-ground fountain. In that case, your local residential regulations may require you to apply for and receive a permit before you can start construction.
As with anything involving government approval, it can take time. By crafting your design and requesting your permits in winter, you should receive approval by your preferred implementation date in spring.
Additionally, if you live in an HOA neighborhood, you may need to request permission from the board before you start on your project. Whether you do or don’t, we still suggest letting your neighbors know of your plans and timeline beforehand so as not to inconvenience them.
#4: Material Availability
Come spring, professional companies and DIY landscapers will be snatching up landscaping materials and supplies to achieve their projects. Unfortunately, this can often lead to a supply shortage or an increased cost of goods. Planning your material orders early can avoid delays due to supply chain issues and potentially lock in lower prices.
Additionally, we want to point out that some specialty materials or plants may have longer lead times. If there is something unique you are trying to obtain, putting an order in early with an appropriate supplier may be your only chance to get it.
#5: Cost Efficiency
Planning early is the best option for cost efficiency. First, you will have more time to budget appropriately. By determining your plans in advance, you can get quality quotes, compare materials, craft a design that fits within your budget, and save up for the final payment slowly rather than in a rush.
Second, you may have the opportunity to lock in cheaper rates in the winter. Landscape companies often offer discounts or a bonus by booking during their slow season. Similarly, the same usually goes for materials such as lumber, mulch, and other products. They may be offered at cheaper prices or in bulk orders – allowing you to buy earlier for a more affordable rate.
How to Plan for Spring Landscaping Construction in Winter:
If you have been mulling a landscaping design project in your mind, now is the time to act. We suggest the following actions to get started with your spring landscaping construction project.
1. Assess Your Existing Space:
Only you know what’s best for yourself or your family. We suggest taking the time to consider your existing outdoor space, how you would want to improve it, and your priorities. For example, you may want grassy play spaces if you have small children or pets. Alternatively, if you are an avid gardener, you may want to focus on raised garden beds with in-ground sprinkler systems. On the other hand, if you are the epitome of a party host, you may want to craft an outdoor entertainment space with an outdoor kitchen, barbecue, dining, and relaxed seating options.
2. Create a Detailed Landscaping Design:
Next, you will want to consult with your professional landscaper to craft a detailed landscaping plan. Here, you will discuss priorities like hardscaping, planting, water features, and your overall vision or goal. Together, you will devise a landscaping construction plan and timeline to achieve your design.
3. Review Sustainable Practices:
Landscaping design doesn’t end when the last flower is planted. It is also vital to consider maintenance needs and how to integrate sustainable practices into your property plan. We suggest crafting an after-construction plan that can be initiated upon completion. From lawn care to sprinkler management to drought-friendly practices, these aspects are worth discussing at the beginning of your project so you know what to expect after everything is done!
Benefits of Working with Musser Landscaping:
Musser Landscaping is more than just your average garden company. We have the knowledge, experience, and imagination to craft breathtaking landscaping solutions customized to individual preferences and spaces.
We’ve guided countless homeowners through the landscaping construction process, bringing their dream vision to a stunning reality. We handle everything, so you don’t have to worry about it! We will take care of every aspect of your landscaping, from design to build to maintenance. Our commitment to quality, attention to detail, and customer satisfaction brings our happy clients back to us again for continued landscaping maintenance and future projects!
Do you have a landscape project in mind? Don’t wait for spring to start planning your dream landscape! Contact Musser Landscaping today to schedule a consultation and get ahead this winter.
