How much does garden landscaping cost?
The cost of landscaping a garden depends on the size of the plot you would like to landscape, what materials you will be using and the level of work required.
Landscaping a garden, whatever size it is can bring significant value to your property and lots of pleasure to even the most unenthusiastic gardener.
There are many variables when it comes to the cost of landscaping a garden. These variables include the type of landscaping work required to create the look you want.
There are two types of garden landscaping:
- Hard landscaping – patios, decking, pathways, ponds and wooden or brick constructions like sheds or summerhouses are permanent forms of hard landscaping.
- Soft landscaping – this comprises of more natural forms of shrubbery and plants like trees and grass.
Depending on how much you want of the above will determine the cost of landscaping a garden. Planning the detail of your garden beforehand will give you a strong indicator of price. Adding in ideas as you go along could see your landscaping costs spiral.
Costs of planning permission for your landscape garden
If your landscape gardening plans are on the more ambitious side and you would like a wooden construction factored into your new outdoor space then you may have to seek planning permission, which will have a cost attached to it.
Even for some trees to be removed or added, there could be a planning permission implication. If in doubt you should double check before work begins on your project.
In 2024, the fee for homeowner planning permission is around £500. Homeowner planning permission is like the type of planning permission you would need if, for any reason, there was permission required for work in your garden landscaping project. This is the case if you do not live in a conservation area or in a listed building. Costs for planning permission will likely be higher if you do want to landscape in a conservation area, or if your property is a listed building. In all cases you are advised to get in touch with the local planning authorities to check whether permission is needed in the first place, and check up to date costs involved.
Quotes for your landscaping project
As with other work on your property, it is prudent to get 3 quotes for the job you would like done. There are lots of landscaping professionals around who will be able to give you sound advice on what type of things to plant and what the best areas of your garden are for maximum effectiveness.
Labour costs for landscape gardening
The cost of these professionals will range with prices often starting from £500.
Agreeing to an hourly rate or a fixed cost will help you plan your budget more effectively. The cost of landscaping a garden differs in areas of the UK. If you want work done during high season this could mean costs escalate, and you will also find you will need to wait longer to get your project underway and completed.
Costs of maintaining a landscaped garden
Finally, in terms of maintenance costs, ensure that you are choosing plants and shrubs that do not need much work on an ongoing basis.
It may be that the initial outlay is more but the alternative can be pots of plants which do not have any longevity and need replacing a few years later.
Costs of a regular gardener
Also, consider the costs of hiring a regular gardener to look after the landscaping if you find you do not have the time to take care of things yourself. Gardeners tend to charge between £200 - £300 per day or £20 to £30 per hour.
