I reported in an earlier article that the national average cost of a new landscape installation is ten percent of the value of the home and property. Is this cost justified? What return on investment (besides beautification, energy conservation and privacy) can be expected? A recent study by Clemson University addressed this concern.

Researchers conducted a study of home sale prices and compared the results based on varying levels of landscape quality. Not only were the type, size and condition of plantings considered, but also the overall design. Landscapes were rated "poor", "average", "good", or "excellent". Results concluded that those homes with good and excellent landscapes had a fourteen to seventeen percent higher sale value than those in the poor and average categories.

This study was done in Greenville, SC and included 218 single family residences. Though results may vary slightly by region, the study indicates that the monetary return on investment for quality landscaping certainly justifies the cost; better landscapes bring higher sale value.

In addition to sale value, proper landscape installation will ensure less expense over time and greater satisfaction. In my years of landscaping experience, I've been required to replant and/or repair numerous landscapes which were originally installed without proper planning and technique. This ends up being more expensive than doing the job right the first time. Remember to Plan Twice...Plant Once.

This time of year, nurseries and garden centers are reminding us that "fall is for planting". Depending on your region, fall may offer a good window for plant establishment. Here in the "far north" (zone 5, sometimes zone 4), late August and early September offer cooler daytime air temperatures and continued warm soil temperatures which are ideal for transplanting. New root growth will establish before winter sets in.

Some years however, weather can turn very wet and cool later in September in our region; so we try to shoot for the two week window in early September. Your region may be quite different, but understanding seasonal weather patterns and soil conditions (temperature and moisture) will allow you to make the informed decision. For instance, I will be more hesitant to plant in a heavy clay soil in the fall than in a sandy one.

As an aside, much of my garden advice contains the phrase "site specific" and although you will find excellent information from a number of garden "experts", this must be filtered through your understanding of your specific site, soil, region, and level of horticultural understanding. Each situation is different.

Fall is for planting, but use good judgement.

Learn professional landscaping tips, from "hands on" gardening technique to design theory at Clearwater Landscape Design.

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