Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long will it take once I reach out to you until you can complete a full CAD design and/or Install project for me?
The design & install process is exactly that -- a process. While exact times will always vary, the average wait during peak times of the year (spring and fall) is generally 4-6 weeks for a completed design for new client contacts. During off-peak times (summer and winter) the wait time on my queue is closer to 2-3 weeks. I am always happy to provide more accurate estimates based on my current workload so feel free to reach out.
2. I am not looking for an elaborate plan but just need some ideas -- can you help me with this?
Yes! Preparing a CAD layout is extremely valuable in the design process, but it is also more time consuming. For smaller or less involved projects Photo Imaging can provide an alternative to CAD. Using Professional ProLandscape Software, I can project images onto a photo of your landscape. While this is not an exact science, it will help to give you an idea of what plants would look like together and how to place them in your beds.
3. Where service area do you cover?
I generally am able to service close to a 20-mile radius from Pottstown, PA (zip code 19464). If you are unsure if you fall into my service range, please feel free to reach out and I'd be happy to discuss with you. While this is far from an exhaustive list, most of my clients have historically been from the following areas:
Malvern, Paoli, Berwyn, West Chester, Newtown Square, Phoenixville, Oaks Downingtown, Valley Forge, and Spring City.
4. Do you do Garden Maintenance Work?
Garden Maintenance was a major part of my workload over the past 14 years. However, because I was doing so much of it, it ended up monopolizing all of my time. I had very minimal time left to do more of the creative work I also enjoy (and my wait times were very long). While I still maintain a small handful of maintenance clients, I am not taking on any new garden maintenance work at this time.
5. Do you do Hardscaping Work (Patio's, walkways, etc)?
No, I do not do any hardscaping work myself. I also do not do any technical constructions or grading plans related to hardscaping. I may include patios, or walkways in my designs but preparing the final specifications on those items and implementing them is out of my area of expertise. I do work with several contracts I could refer you to upon request.
6. Do you do lawn mowing, mulching, tree pruning, etc.
No, I do not do any lawn care, garden care, or tree care but I am happy to provide any good reference that I have.
7. It seems like you don't do a lot of things that a typical landscaper does -- why is that?
While my educational background did include all elements of landscape contracting, my interest and my experience drew me to the more detailed work of fine gardening design and implementation. I have found that I am able to stay more than busy enough doing quality work that covers only design, install, and seasonal flowers. I often hear from my clients that the larger companies were not able to zero in on the details of their specific needs. Big companies tend to be in the business of a quick and more generic turnaround. Larger companies certainly have the resources to do many things I cannot however, where they are weak I am strong. I specialize in the areas that these larger companies tend to lack which is a customized, detailed, and unique end product.
8. How much do you charge?
My currently hourly rate which I use to calculate my design, install, and seasonal container projects is $60/hr.