How to Avoid Being Exploited By The Landscape Thieves

Recently, I have noticed some incidents of extremely poor judgement in the installations of several new landscapes. As a proud member of this great industry, we continually strive to raise our standards of professionalism and quality to the general public but obviously, everyone didn't get the memo. The issue is invisible to most but very noticeable to any veterans who have ever worked in the landscape trenches.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• read books and look at pictures

1. Recently, I have noticed some incidents of extremely poor judgement in the field even though the landscape industry has continually strived to raise its standards of professionalism and quality to the general public.
   
   This issue is invisible to most but very noticeable to any veterans who have ever worked in the landscape trenches. This is the blatant over use of plant material in newly installed landscapes.
   
   Certain companies are installing too many plants, planting in the wrong environment and ultimately, taking advantage of clients who are totally unaware, they are spending more than necessary.
2. Here is what I am see
   
   In planting beds where 10 shrubs would be sufficient, 30 plants are being crammed together to fill the same space. Plants that grow to 10 feet are being planted in front of windows that are only 4 feet off the ground and last, plants that need full sun are being planted under trees where they receive little sun at all.
   
   Here's what will happen.
   
   *** The ones planted too close will grow all over one another, shading themselves and any new growth over time and begin a slow decline to a poor future.
   *** The ones planted under the window will need to be pruned so often, they'll always be in a constant state of recovery and never fulfill their full potential.
   *** The plants in the wrong environment will grow slow, leaves will be off color, flower little if at all and have an overall unhealthy appearance.
   
   Are the installers worried about future health?
   
   Heck no. All they're worried about is the warranty period, 12 months. Any issues after that go back to the owner, you know, the one who will have the bad attitude next year.
3. Here is what to do.
   
   1. Hire only quality, professional contractors and ask questions about experience. Find someone in your neighborhood who has a nice landscape and ask them some questions, I bet they would love to help. Professional landscapers have a passion for talking and explaining things perfectly.
   
   Pertaining to your contractor, listen to their confidence and go with your gut.
   
   2. Please, study and know the plants you like and their mature sizes before you sign on the dotted line. Drive your neighborhood and try to find the same plants, observing how big they are and their health. Your future landscape should consist of less maintenance and more enjoyment.
   
   3. Examine all designs and plant lists to determine if all are necessary and all will survive where planted. Once again ask questions. Its better to install fewer plants, allowing them to mature and grow together over time then it is to cram too many plants together trying to get instant impact. If your not sure, ask me, I would be happy to help. www.landscapeproblemsolver.com
   
   
   Like I said before, most professional landscapers are very passionate about their business and like to make sure you understand what they are saying. Find the passion and you’ll get the results.
   
   
   All the best,
   
   Todd
   
   Visit:www.landscapeproblemsolver.com

Tips & Warnings

• ask questions and listen
• learn your plants
• don't be afraid to say no and move on
• hire on references and your gut
• don't make it only about money or low price