Frequently Asked Questions

In most cases, consultations are free. In certain scenarios, such as jobs that require very long commutes, we may require a deposit to help offset the cost of travel. Any deposits charged for consultations are credited back to you if we are hired to perform your project.

We charge for design work on most projects. This is all discussed early on - our estimators review fees with you at the time of the consultation. We generally will apply the design fee to the cost of the project if the proposed job is accepted.

Related Article: How to Plan Your Central Florida Landscape Design

Like most projects, you’ll want to consider all phases of installation - removal of existing turf, installation of your new sod and continuing care. The type of sod you choose and its availability will also affect total pricing, but you can narrow down your potential cost by understanding these factors and the size of your desired lawn.

Related Article: Understanding Sod Prices & Installation Costs for Orlando

Resource: Online Sod Delivery for Central FL

Watering is the biggest, but not only, care technique. Proper care requires the consideration of a number of factors. What time of year was your sod installed? Is it shaded, in direct sunlight, or a mix of both? What species of grass have you installed? All of these factors can greatly influence the success of your new lawn.

Resource: Sod Care Guide

In addition to water, new sod can get a boost from fertilizer applications to help its roots establish in your soil. Insecticides and fungicides can be applied to control pests and prevent fungal infection, but weed control will have to wait. Even turf-safe selective herbicides can damage new sod while it is still in a heavy growth stage.

Related Article: Does New Sod Come with Bugs in It? What to Watch Out For

We can deliver sod to you direct from the farm. DIY enthusiasts can install their own Florida sod, but we recommend getting the sod directly from the source as quickly as possible. While we’re happy to provide professional installation, we can also provide delivery for your weekend project.

Related Article: Preparing for Your Sod Delivery: 7 Essential Considerations

New sod should always be installed over prepared and graded topsoil and never over existing lawn. Weeds can creep through your new sod and elevations will change, if the new sod doesn’t die outright.  While it can be placed next to existing lawn to repair dead areas, the difference may be noticeable for some time.

Related Article: Can I Lay Sod Over or Next to Existing Grass?

Brown spots in your new sod could be as serious as lawn disease or as controllable as changing the amount of water it gets. Pests and pets can also cause issues, as there are insects that like to make new sod home. When your pets do their business outside, they can cause issues with unestablished sod, too.

While sod can be purchased from box stores and some garden centers, it’s important to remember that when it comes to sod, timeliness is key. Sod that’s delivered to a third party before finally reaching you has had plenty of time to dry out and die. We deliver direct from the farm to your home, all in the same day.

Yes! People often think of additions or renovations inside the home as the best ways to add value, but landscaping can be just as impactful. Outdoor living spaces that expand the usable areas of the home are great additions, as are curb appeal projects like top-of-the-line lawns and planting beds.

Everywhere you look! Landscaping can create focal points and gathering areas to increase the beauty of your home. It can also be installed as a utility, to help control wild areas, regulate the flow of groundwater and prevent erosion, among other benefits. Landscapes also increase the value of structures and other outdoor features by bringing a touch of nature to your yard.

Related Article: 20 Great Ideas for the Best Front Yard Landscaping at Your Orlando, Fl Home

Related Article: Landscaping Along Your Fence: How and What to Plant Along a Fence

Related Article: 5 Landscape Design Tips for a Screened Pool or Lanai Area

Florida’s climate and growing zone are unlike any other part of the country. We always look to use native shrubs and trees in our designs. Not only are they most likely to succeed, but are the best plants to create the tropical vibe that Florida can uniquely offer. Some non-native species are hardy and can naturalize here, but we always look to start with Florida natives.

We often hear from homeowners that ‘low-maintenance’ is at the top of their wish list when planning new landscapes. All landscapes need some tending to maintain their structure and prevent wild overgrowth, but some plants and designs are certainly easier to maintain than others. Planning a low-maintenance landscape is something best considered during the design stage. 

Concrete cracks easily in Florida’s sandy soils and offers limited design options. Pavers are more durable and are more easily repaired if needed, but mainly bring design and color options that concrete cannot.

Anything that removes permeable area (soils, grass) and replaces it with impermeable surfaces (pavers, concrete) will decrease your yard’s ability to get rid of water. Big hardscapes can sometimes require drainage considerations, including french drains, catch basins and more. 

Related Article: Understanding Yard Drainage in Orlando: French Drains, Collections Boxes & More

We recommend wired lighting systems. Solar lights are inexpensive and cost nothing to run, but aren’t powerful enough to provide meaningful outdoor lighting. Wired systems are reliable, controllable and can be customized to fit your outdoor living spaces.

If your irrigation system doesn’t have a rain sensor, it’s time to upgrade. If you’ve got one, look to have it calibrated or replaced every few years. Weather and frequency of use will affect its longevity. A bad one could leave you running irrigation in a rain storm.

Some leakage could be harmless. Persistent water leaks could be a problem. If you think your system is wasting water, it’s best to have it professionally inspected.

There are some obvious tells: water that doesn’t start (or stop), uneven growth or brown areas in the lawn or rising water bills due to a leak in the system. The causes may be less obvious, like issues with the underground parts of the system. 

If you’re running irrigation, you’re already using a lot of water, and you want to control it as well as you can. Watering overnight and out of the heat of the day will help prevent evaporation. The amount of water will change depending on site conditions and the time of year.