Landscaping Cost Overview
Landscaping is a major investment that varies dramatically based on project scope, materials, complexity, and your specific property. Understanding typical costs helps you budget appropriately and get realistic bids from contractors.
According to the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), the average American household spends $3,000-5,000 on landscaping and maintenance annually. In Boise, costs may be slightly lower than the national average, but this depends on your specific situation.
Landscape Design Services
Professional design is the foundation of successful landscaping. A designer creates a plan tailored to your site, style, and budget.
| Service | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Site Analysis and Consultation | $200-500 | Initial meeting, site evaluation, preliminary ideas |
| Conceptual Design | $500-2,000 | Sketch concepts, basic layout, style direction |
| Full Design Plan | $1,500-5,000+ | Detailed planting plan, hardscape plan, specifications |
| Landscape Master Plan | $2,000-8,000+ | Comprehensive plan for entire property, phasing options |
Installation Costs
Plant Installation
Plant costs depend on plant size and type. Small perennials might cost $10-30 each to install, while larger shrubs range from $50-150 each. Trees cost significantly more, with installation ranging from $200-1,000+ depending on size and type.
| Element | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Perennials | $10-30 each | Includes plant and planting labor |
| Shrubs (Small) | $30-75 each | 3-5 gallon containers |
| Shrubs (Large) | $75-150+ each | 7-15 gallon containers or larger |
| Trees (Small) | $200-500 each | 1-2 inch caliper |
| Trees (Large) | $500-1,500+ each | 2-4+ inch caliper |
| Mulch/Bark | $3-6 per sq. ft. | 2-3 inch depth |
Hardscape Installation
Hardscape costs depend on material choice and complexity of installation.
| Element | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Patio (Concrete Pavers) | $8-15 per sq. ft. | Simple installation on existing grade |
| Patio (Stamped Concrete) | $10-18 per sq. ft. | More decorative than standard concrete |
| Patio (Natural Stone) | $15-25+ per sq. ft. | Premium appearance and durability |
| Pathway | $8-15 per linear ft. | Varies by width and material |
| Retaining Wall | $15-30 per linear ft. | Per linear foot, height dependent |
| Pergola | $3,000-8,000+ | 12x12 to 16x16 foot structures |
Maintenance and Ongoing Services
Professional landscaping maintenance is an ongoing investment. Many Boise homeowners use maintenance services year-round.
| Service | Cost Range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Lawn Maintenance | $50-150 per visit | Weekly during growing season |
| Landscape Maintenance | $100-250 per visit | Bi-weekly or monthly |
| Aeration and Overseeding | $300-800 | Annual or bi-annual |
| Mulch Refresh | $400-1,500 | Annually, varies by property size |
| Seasonal Cleanup | $500-2,000 | Spring and fall |
Complete Project Cost Examples
Small Front Yard Makeover
- Scope: Replace lawn with xeriscape planting, new mulch, front pathway
- Design: $800
- Plants (shrubs and perennials): $1,500
- Hardscape (pathway): $400
- Mulch and soil prep: $300
- Total: $3,000-4,000
Medium Patio Project
- Scope: New 16x20 patio, surrounding planting, irrigation
- Design: $1,500
- Patio (concrete pavers): $2,560
- Plants and planting: $1,500
- Irrigation system: $1,200
- Mulch and soil prep: $300
- Total: $7,000-8,000
Large Complete Landscape Design
- Scope: Complete property redesign, hardscape, all plantings, irrigation
- Design: $3,000
- Plants and installation: $5,000
- Hardscape (patio, pathways, walls): $8,000
- Irrigation system and installation: $2,500
- Mulch and soil prep: $1,000
- Total: $19,500-21,000+
Factors Affecting Landscaping Cost
- Property size: Larger properties cost more to landscape and maintain
- Complexity: Retaining walls, grading, and site prep increase costs
- Material choices: Premium materials (natural stone vs. concrete) increase costs
- Access and site conditions: Difficult terrain or poor access may require special equipment
- Contractor experience: Established contractors with good reputations may charge more
- Timing: Spring and summer are peak season; fall and winter may offer discounts
Getting Landscaping Quotes
Always get multiple bids (at least 3) before hiring a contractor. Make sure each bid is based on the same specifications and design plan. Compare not just price, but also contractor qualifications, experience, warranty, and timeline.
Be wary of unusually low bids; they often indicate corner-cutting on quality or insufficient experience. Similarly, the highest bid isn't always the best. Look for contractors who communicate clearly, ask good questions, and provide detailed written estimates.
Budgeting Tips
- Phase the project: Implement landscaping over multiple seasons to spread costs
- Start with design: A good design prevents costly mistakes and wasted money
- Use a mix of sizes: Combine some larger plants with more affordable smaller ones
- Do simple work yourself: Mulching, planting small perennials, and weeding are DIY-able
- Invest in quality plants: Larger, healthier plants establish better and cost less in the long run
Ready for a Landscaping Quote?
Getting accurate costs requires a site visit and understanding of your specific needs. Hockema Landscape provides free consultations and detailed bids for landscaping projects in Boise. Contact them for a quote.