Q1: How much should a landscaper charge per day?

A1: Landscapers charge GBP 200-350 per day depending on experience and location. London rates reach GBP 300-450. Skilled landscapers with specialist equipment command higher rates. Day rates suit ongoing projects; fixed quotes are preferable for defined work.

Q2: How much would it cost to landscape my garden?

A2: Basic landscaping costs GBP 2,000-5,000 for a small garden. Mid-range makeovers run GBP 5,000-15,000. Complete transformations with paving, planting, water features, and structures can exceed GBP 20,000-50,000 depending on size and specification.

Q3: What is the cheapest landscaping option?

A3: Gravel, mulch, and ground cover plants offer affordable coverage. Seed lawns cost less than turf. DIY preparation and planting reduce costs significantly. Focus spending on permanent features like paving and invest in plants gradually.

Q4: Why is landscaping so expensive in the UK?

A4: Costs reflect skilled labour, quality materials, equipment hire, waste disposal, and project management. Hard landscaping (paving, walls) involves heavy materials and groundwork. Quality landscaping adds significant property value, justifying investment.

Q5: What is the most low-maintenance landscaping?

A5: Artificial grass, gravel gardens, native shrubs, and perennial planting require minimal upkeep. Hard landscaping with potted plants reduces maintenance. Consider drought-tolerant Mediterranean planting for attractive, low-maintenance borders.

Q6: What is the most expensive part of landscaping?

A6: Hard landscaping (paving, decking, walls, drainage) typically accounts for 50-70% of project costs. Quality natural stone, bespoke structures, and water features add significantly. Labour for groundwork and construction drives expenses.

Q7: What is a good landscaping budget?

A7: Budget 5-15% of your property value for significant landscaping improvements. For a GBP 300,000 property, this suggests GBP 15,000-45,000. Smaller budgets of GBP 3,000-10,000 can achieve meaningful improvements when priorities are clear.

Q8: How long does it take to landscape a garden?

A8: A basic garden makeover takes 1-2 weeks. Medium projects with paving and planting require 2-4 weeks. Complex transformations involving construction, drainage, and extensive planting may take 4-8 weeks or longer.

Q9: Is it worth paying for a garden designer?

A9: Yes, for significant investments. Designers ensure cohesive planning, appropriate plant selection, and practical layouts. Design fees (GBP 500-3,000) typically represent 5-10% of project cost and prevent expensive mistakes.

Q10: What landscaping adds the most value?

A10: Quality paving, defined boundaries, mature planting, and outdoor living spaces add most value. Well-designed gardens can add 5-20% to property value. Low-maintenance, family-friendly designs appeal to the broadest buyer market.