Sacramentans seem conflicted about the perfect residential landscape. Our preferences range from attempting to control nature with vast lawns and boxwood hedges to creating serene spaces that appear untouched by human hands.
Variations abound, inspired by landscape design choices. Contemporary, modern minimalist, cottage garden, French country, tropical, xeriscape—the menu of artistry and whimsy is abundant.
What nudges us to consider a major renovation, a new look?
If code enforcement is sending violation notices and threatening fines, you may need a landscape renovation. Neighbors have little patience for unkept, overgrown yards.
A nuisance neighborhood yard isn’t the only reason for change. Roots from bad trees can lift concrete driveways and walkways and slice through buried irrigation, water and sewer lines. Repair costs are significant.
Perhaps you recently moved into a new home and desire a yard that fits your tastes. Maybe a makeover is essential for lower maintenance. Or there’s a need for a more water-efficient, environmentally friendly outdoor retreat.
Now you’re seriously thinking about landscape. Is it older than dirt and in dire need of resurrection? Are water and mowing team bills outrageous? How should I begin and what should I do?
Consider a smart investment, a new landscape. It increases curb appeal, property value, rekindles the happy gene and reduces stress. Neighbors are likely to approve, too!
Actual work takes much less time than planning and financial phases. Decide on a budget and how to pay for the new landscape before scheduling meetings with companies and gathering quotes.
“Most of our clients pay by check with savings,” says Morgan Hernandez, co-owner of Genesis Landscapes and a city-approved landscape designer. “If it is a bigger project, looking into financing with a bank is another option. Either way, figure financing out first.”
Hernandez encourages exploring rebates, which she says can save 10% to 15%. City and county residents are eligible for lawn conversion and drip irrigation rebate programs.
Her company specializes in sustainable, residential front lawn conversions, and has completed more than 50 rebate projects around town. Most of its jobs are “average-sized lawn conversions in the $10,000 to $20,000 range.”
“Every project is unique,” she says. “A $20,000 project usually means it’s a big yard or they want to include a lot of extras or have hardscaping (patios, walkways, retaining walls) to do as well.”
Kitchen remodels are more expensive than a new landscape, but both boost property values. The American Society of Landscape Architects projects a professional landscape increases home resale value more than 15%.
With labor and material costs always rising, the earlier a job is booked the more the homeowner saves.
During the planning phase, determine what style and colors make you happy. If there are trees to remove, get it done, along with stump grinding and fence installations. In-ground swimming pools should be completed.
Search company websites and read reviews before contacting a landscaping company.
“Schedule a 10-minute call to explain what you are looking for and learn about their process before setting up a time to meet,” Hernandez says. “Make sure it is a good fit. You can usually tell if you are interested in meeting with them by talking for a few minutes. It will save you time and effort when getting estimates.”
She suggests finding someone who listens and is willing to give you what you want.
“We will give feedback and make suggestions but never impose our ideas,” she says. “It is their landscape, and we want them to enjoy it.”
According to Hernandez, a reputable company can finish a landscape in one to four months. That’s from consultation to completion. A significant amount of time is spent waiting for clients to make decisions, she adds. The actual physical work typically can be done in two to four days.
Sacramento is blessed with great outdoor weather. A gorgeous new landscape, a glass of wine and the Delta breeze make for a relaxing slice of paradise.
Dan Vierria is a University of California Cooperative Extension Master Gardener for Sacramento County. He can be reached at masterg29@gmail.com. For answers to gardening questions, contact UCCE Master Gardeners at (916) 876-5338, email mgsacramento@ucanr.edu or visit sacmg.ucanr.edu. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: @insidesacramento.
