Landscaping Costs: What You’ll Actually Pay

Thinking about a new garden or a tidy lawn? Before you pick plants, you need a clear idea of the price tag. Landscaping costs can swing wildly – a simple mowing job might be cheap, while a full redesign can run into the thousands. In this guide we break down the biggest expense categories and share practical ways to keep the budget from blowing up.

Breaking Down Common Expenses

Most yard projects fall into three buckets: labour, materials, and equipment. Labour is the biggest chunk, especially if you hire a professional landscaper. A typical landscaper charges between £30 and £60 per hour, depending on experience and location. If you’re only getting a lawn mowed, the average cost is about £25‑£35 per visit for a standard-sized garden.

Materials include soil, mulch, stones, plants, and any hard‑scape items like patios or retaining walls. A cubic metre of quality topsoil runs about £30‑£45, while decorative stone can be £50‑£80 per tonne. Plants vary a lot – a small shrub might cost £5, but a mature tree can be £150 or more. Add up the quantities you need and you’ll see why a simple plant swap can still add up.

Equipment rental is often overlooked. You might need a mini‑excavator for a small trench or a compactor for a new patio. Daily rates are usually £80‑£120, but many landscapers include equipment in their labour quote, so ask up front.

Tips to Keep Your Budget in Check

1. Start with a clear plan. Sketch your garden, list the must‑haves, and set a realistic price range. The more detail you have, the less likely you’ll get surprise costs later.

2. Do some DIY work. Tasks like lawn mowing, weeding, or laying mulch are easy to do yourself and can save £200‑£500 on a modest project.

3. Shop seasonal. Plants are cheapest in late summer and early autumn. Buying then can shave 20‑30% off the plant budget.

4. Get multiple quotes. Ask at least three local firms for detailed estimates. Look for hidden fees like travel charges or disposal costs.

5. Reuse what you have. If you already have stone pavers or garden edging, incorporate them into the new design instead of buying new.

Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Cheap mulch can break down quickly, costing you more in re‑application. Balance cost with durability to get the most value.

When you add up labour, materials, and any equipment, a modest front‑yard makeover usually lands between £1,500 and £3,000. A larger backyard revamp with a patio, lighting, and mature trees can easily push £10,000 or more. Use these ranges as a quick sanity check for your own project.Bottom line: know what you’re paying for, compare quotes, and do the simple jobs yourself. With a solid plan and a few smart hacks, you can give your garden a fresh look without breaking the bank.