Getting an accurate cost estimate before you make a final decision on your landscape plan will help to avoid costly surprises and can help you decide whether to install your landscape all at once, install it in stages, or revise your landscape plan to include more or fewer features. It is advisable to get a cost estimate for materials and services from more than one supplier. To ensure consistent cost estimates, ask for the same product or service from each supplier.

• First, make a list of all of the materials included in your landscape plan. Begin with the hardscape elements such as concrete walkways, benches, patios, walls and decomposed granite. Then list the plants you want to include in your landscape. Make sure to list the quantity and size of each plant.