Landscaping Costs: What to Expect and How to Keep Budget in Check
Thinking about giving your garden a makeover but worried about the price tag? You’re not alone. Most homeowners splash out far more than planned because they don’t know the real cost drivers. In this guide we break down the main expenses, show you realistic price ranges, and give quick tips to stretch every pound.
Average Price Ranges for Common Landscaping Work
Below are the ball‑park figures you’ll see on most quotes in the UK. Prices can swing depending on region, soil condition, and design complexity, so treat these as a starting point.
- Basic lawn installation: £5‑£12 per square metre for turf, grading and edging.
- Hard‑scaping (patios, decking, pathways): £80‑£150 per m² for materials and labour, with natural stone on the higher end.
- Planting beds: £25‑£45 per m² for soil preparation, plants, and mulching.
- Irrigation systems: £1,200‑£3,000 for a typical domestic setup, including pump and timers.
- Full garden redesign: £10,000‑£35,000 for a medium‑size property, covering design, permits, and all planting.
These numbers include both material costs and the labour you’ll pay the landscaper. If you’re happy to do some of the grunt work—like digging or planting—you can shave a few hundred pounds off the total.
Tips to Save Money and Negotiate Better Deals
Now that you know the price ranges, here’s how to keep the bill realistic.
- Get at least three quotes. Comparing offers forces each contractor to be transparent about material choices and labour rates.
- Break the project into phases. Start with high‑impact items (like a new patio) and add planting later. This spreads cost over time.
- Source your own plants. Buying plants from local nurseries or even online often costs less than a fully‑managed service.
- Ask for itemised pricing. When you see a blanket figure, ask the builder to list each component—materials, excavation, waste removal—so you can spot hidden hikes.
- Negotiate payment terms. A modest discount for upfront cash or staged payments can save you 5‑10%.
Don’t be shy about asking for alternatives. If a contractor suggests a pricey stone, ask if a cheaper paver will work. Most pros have a range of options and will appreciate your willingness to discuss them.
Finally, keep a small contingency fund—around 10% of the total budget—for unexpected issues like poor soil or hidden drainage problems. It’s better to have a cushion than to scramble halfway through.
With these numbers and tricks in your back pocket, you can walk into any landscaping discussion feeling confident. The right garden is within reach; you just need a clear budget and a few smart negotiating moves.
