Like it or not, most of us establish a budget when tackling a new or existing landscaping project. That does not mean that you must settle for a boring yard. Landscaping on a budget is easier than you think, it is good to know where to spend your money and where to cut corners. Costs can quickly accumulate, but with strategic planning, you can keep expenses down and stretch every dollar.
9 Tips for Making Your Landscaping Budget Work for You
Take a survey of your yard, noting what must change versus what can wait. Prioritize your most used areas. Make a list, separating the “needs” from the “wants.”
Plan Your Landscaping for the Long Term
If you desire more grass or if you want less to mow, plan accordingly. When creating larger landscape areas, consider renting items like tillers to do the hard work. Hardscaping is another option for those areas. Pre-fab pavers, rocks, and fountains aren’t cheap but can be done affordably and have a long life in your garden.
Don’t Get Rid of What Works
Keep the areas that work. While they may need sprucing up, like a fresh stain or added mulch, it is important to see those areas as good enough. This includes keeping the trees you have.
Look Outside of the Nursery for New Plants
When purchasing plants, think smaller. A one-gallon plant is less expensive than a five-gallon one. Smaller plants will grow quickly. You can buy cheaper plants at grocery and hardware stores, they are cheaper than at a nearby nursery. You should take the time to sort through the plants to find the healthiest.
Perennials Save You Money Year-Round
Invest in perennials. Annuals provide wonderful colors, but they must be replaced each year. There are many perennials that bloom abundantly. They only need to be purchased and planted once. Those plants that multiply, like hostas, can be divided and started in new planting gardens. Trade with neighbors for variety.
Groundcover Plants Spruce Up Your Landscaping for Less
Consider groundcover plants. Choose a fast-spreading species. They are usually reasonably priced and come in many varieties for all climates. They do need maintenance but are easy to keep low and manicured.
Compost Instead of Purchasing Fertilizer
Fertilizers can be expensive. Composting is a frugal way to create your own fertilizer. Using your kitchen scraps, newspaper and raked leaves in a compost bin will provide an endless supply of nutrient-rich compost. Note also, some cities offer free compost at designated locations.
Remember, Water is Water
If your water bill is your worry, begin capturing rainwater. Your plants love the real thing. You then can water your gardens, houseplants, and containers. It may or may not cover all your needs but will cut down your water expenses. It is also easy to make your own. Learn how to make your own rain barrel with these instructions from Texas A&M.
Cosmetic Changes Can Be Affordable and Make a Huge Difference
Changing small things can have a big impact. Newly painted planter boxes, updated mailbox and house numbers, manicured edging, and decorative rock are all less expensive items that will enhance the curb appeal of your home.
Don’t Cut Corners After Establishing Your New Landscape, Work with Executive Lawn Care for Affordable Results
The key to saving money is knowing what you need and what you want. After investing money and time into creating your beautifully landscaped gardens, you don’t want to skimp on flower bed maintenance or proper lawn mowing service. You do not want to waste money on unnecessary treatments or make costly mistakes with your landscape or lawn.
Finding experts in residential lawn service will help to protect your landscape investment by spotting problems early and recommending the proper treatment.
Reach out to your local Dallas lawn care professionals at Executive Lawn Care today to get your residential lawn on our schedule.
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