What to Expect, What It Costs, and How to Do It Right
Designing a new landscape is more than planting a few shrubs and spreading mulch. A properly planned design & install landscape project transforms how your home looks, functions, and even how it drains.
At Lawngevity Landscape & Design, we believe homeowners deserve clear answers before committing to a project. This guide walks you through what landscape design includes, how plants and materials are selected, pricing expectations in New Jersey, and how to hire the right contractor.
What Is a Design & Install Landscape Project?
A design & install project means your landscape is planned, sourced, and built intentionally, not pieced together over time.
These projects commonly include:
- Custom landscape design
- New planting beds
- Trees, shrubs, and perennials
- Mulch or decorative rock installation
- Bed edging and borders
- Front yard or backyard refreshes
Everything works together visually and functionally.
Why Design Matters Before Installation
Skipping design is one of the most expensive mistakes homeowners make.
A professional landscape design considers:
- Sun exposure & soil conditions
- Mature plant sizes (not how they look day one)
- Drainage & water flow
- Seasonal color & year-round appeal
- Maintenance requirements
Good design prevents overcrowding, plant failure, and constant rework.
Purchasing Plants & Shrubs: What Homeowners Should Know
Buying plants isn’t just about picking what looks good at the nursery.
Professional Plant Selection Includes:
- NJ climate-hardy species
- Proper spacing for full growth
- Balance of evergreen & seasonal plants
- Deer-resistant options (where possible)
- Placement based on sun, shade, and drainage
💡 A $40 shrub installed in the wrong spot can cost more than a $150 plant installed correctly.
Mulch Beds vs Decorative Rock
Both are popular in New Jersey, and each has pros and cons.
Mulch Beds
✔ Enhances soil health
✔ Clean, natural look
✔ Lower upfront cost
✖ Needs annual refreshing
Decorative Rock
✔ Long lifespan
✔ Modern, clean appearance
✔ Low maintenance
✖ Higher initial cost
✖ Requires proper fabric & base prep
Choosing the wrong option for your space can create drainage issues or long-term maintenance headaches.
Creating New Landscape Beds
New beds aren’t just shaped—they’re engineered.
Professional bed installation includes:
- Proper excavation
- Defined edging for clean lines
- Soil amendments if needed
- Weed barrier installation
- Drainage considerations
Well-built beds make ongoing maintenance easier and keep your landscape looking sharp year after year.
How Much Does Landscape Design & Installation Cost in NJ?
Here’s a transparent look at realistic pricing.
Typical NJ Price Ranges
- Landscape Design: $500 – $2,500+
- Plant & Shrub Installation: $75 – $300 per plant (installed)
- Mulch Installation: $5 – $8 per yard
- Decorative Rock: $8 – $18 per sq ft
- New Bed Installations: Project-based pricing
Pricing depends on size, materials, access, and complexity—not shortcuts.
Common Questions Homeowners Ask
“Can I buy the plants myself?”
You can—but professionals source higher-quality nursery stock and warranty plant health when we install them.
“How long does a project take?”
Most design & install projects take 1–5 days once materials are ready.
“Is spring the only time to install?”
No. Fall is actually one of the best planting seasons in New Jersey.
“Will this increase my home’s value?”
Yes. Landscape improvements consistently rank among the highest ROI exterior upgrades.
Red Flags When Hiring a Landscape Contractor
🚩 No written plan or scope
🚩 Extremely low pricing
🚩 No discussion of plant maturity
🚩 Skipping base prep or bed construction
🚩 No warranty or follow-up
A landscape is an investment—not a weekend project.
Why Homeowners Choose Lawngevity
We don’t just install plants—we design landscapes that last.
Our design & install approach focuses on:
- Long-term plant health
- Clean, structured bed layouts
- Proper materials and prep
- Honest recommendations based on your property
No upselling. No rushed installs. Just quality work.
Ready to Design Your Landscape the Right Way?
Whether you’re refreshing your front yard or building entirely new beds, Lawngevity provides professional landscape design and installation throughout New Jersey.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and walkthrough.
