Installation Costs

What Does a Dream Garden Really Cost?

If you’ve ever watched a home makeover show where a full backyard transformation happens in a weekend for $8,000… let me gently say: that’s not reality. As a garden designer and project manager, my job is to create spaces that are not only beautiful, but buildable — with the real-world costs, materials, and professionals that bring those plans to life.

Planting Budget: Pay Now or Weed Later

One of the biggest questions from clients is:
“Why does planting cost so much? Aren’t plants cheap?”
The answer depends on how fast you want your garden to mature — and how much maintenance you're willing to take on.
For a 100' x 50' planting area, costs range from $7,000.00+, depending on the size of nursery stock and inclusion of larger specimen trees or privacy hedging.

At GardenGirls, we work with specialty growers and suppliers across the state to source hard-to-find, rare, and regionally appropriate plants — not the mass-produced selections you'd find at a big-box store. Each client receives a personalized planting plan tailored to their site, goals, and style. Plant sourcing is handled directly through GardenGirls as part of the design and install process, ensuring consistent quality and thoughtful integration.

You have options:
- Smaller plants = Lower upfront cost, more weeding & waiting
- Larger plants = Higher initial investment, faster fill-in & less maintenance

Why Share These Numbers?

We believe in transparency. The worst feeling for a homeowner is falling in love with a vision that’s far outside their comfort zone after the design is complete. That’s why we talk openly about costs early on — not to discourage you, but to set you up for success. It also helps us prioritize features and create a phased plan that fits your life and investment level.

Project Management Role During Installation

If you choose to move forward with installation through our preferred contractor network, we offer full project management support — including site coordination, phasing guidance, construction oversight, budget tracking.
Our goal is to help you get a space that feels like home — and avoid the costly mistakes that come with hiring the wrong team or cutting corners.

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Landscape Feature Costs: What to Expect

Whether you're dreaming of a cozy fire pit or a full outdoor kitchen, here’s a breakdown of what those features actually cost to install in the Pacific Northwest.