[graciegirl]

Originally Posted by NJblue

I'm not sure where you will even find a real landscape architect in the area. They may exist, but I have not seen one advertised or employed by any of the local landscapers. There are many that do design service, including a computer rendition of the final look, but none that I have run across are true landscape architects with a degree.

Some of the "designers" create beautiful plans, but some also do not take into account the mature size of the shrubs and trees that they recommend. One that comes fairly highly recommended here on TOTV gave me a design which included Chinese Fan Palms as sort of a medium level shrub (which they do look like in their immature form). They looked great in the design but they ignored the fact that these will become fairly large trees as they mature. They would ultimately have to be ripped out. Other common problems with local designers is recommending plants that are not cold hardy or placing those that can't take direct sun in areas with no shade.

In the end, I bought my own design program, did my own research and created my own design. I then had a landscape company put the big stuff in place and also take out the sod for the new beds. I then bought my own plants in 3/5/7 gallon sizes from a variety of sources and planted them myself. So far I'm pleased with the results and if somethings don't work out - the cost was so low, that I won't feel bad about ripping them out and replacing them.

The cost is significant with a moderate landscaping job. Many friends have told me that it was more than ten thousand dollars.