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Tips for Keeping Costs Down When Landscaping
from: Lawn and Garden MagicLandscaping can be an expensive proposition. However, it's possible to keep the costs relatively low by paying attention to a few practices that can save you money. After all, the most beautiful landscape in the world can be a source of vexation if it costs you more than you can afford. By remembering a few helpful tips, you can save money on your landscaping needs, and enjoy it all the more.
Plan before you make your purchases. Having a plan for your landscape will allow you to use common sense and economy when making purchases. If you don't plan, you may buy something you don't need, and that can be a waste of money. Complete a rough sketch of what you would like to accomplish with your landscape design and find out exactly what you need to make it possible. There's a wealth of Web sites that can help you get an idea of what you need to complete a project, and specialty stores and even some home improvement warehouses have experts on hand who can give you advice. Once you know exactly what you need, you can make your purchases without buying excess materials.
Make your purchases in phases. Your plan should also include a schedule of when you will perform certain portions. Most people can't afford to make all the changes all at once. If you plan phases of your landscape project, you can buy what you need as you go along and as you have the funds available. This can help you save on the interest and loan fees associated with home improvement loans or using credit cards to make purchases.
Cheaper is not always better. If there's little difference in quality, then buying the cheaper item is the best course. However, local shops often have true experts who will impart their wisdom for free if you ask questions while making a purchase. Specialty shops can give you the correct information on installing a water feature. If you're new to landscaping, it can save money in the long run to spend a little extra to get better service, help and advice.
If you do buy at a "big box" store, be sure to carefully inspect plants for diseases and insect problems. These stores may not care if they take good of care of the plants as a nursery would. Buying a diseased plant only means buying it over again when it dies, and this means you are out some money. Many nurseries offer warranties and guarantees free of charge on their plants.
Use common sense when timing your landscape purchases. Think about when you would like to accomplish it. Buy lumber during the winter when it's cheaper, and then store it until you're ready to use it. Buy things like trees, perennials, mulch and soil late in the season. In most places, you still have time to winterize your landscape if you wait until October to make your maintenance purchases. Also, watch for plant sales at local nurseries. This is often a great way to get quality plants at low prices.
Use alternative resources. It's not always necessary to buy something at a store. You can order through catalogs or online. An inexpensive membership to a garden and seed club can yield very good prices on many items, as well as helpful advice. Also, you may be able to arrange a plant exchange in your neighborhood. Many cities offer low price or free mulch and compost and you can get stones and bricks at many construction or demolition sites.
Share costs with neighbors. If you pool your resources with your neighbors, you can often get a good deal on items bought in bulk. Likewise, share the rental fees for machinery such as chippers, tillers and aerators. If everyone chips in a few dollars, you can work out a schedule where each neighbor gets to use the equipment before it's taken back. This is a great way to reduce the costs associated with landscaping.
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