As winter settles in, many homeowners pause outdoor projects until warmer weather returns. But according to the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), if you're thinking about a landscape renovation, patio, garden redesign, or lighting upgrade, the best time to start planning is actually now. Early landscaping consultations — before the spring rush — can make all the difference in securing your preferred timeline and ensuring a smooth, well-thought-out project.
Get Ahead of the Spring Rush
Spring is the busiest time of year for landscaping companies. As soon as the ground thaws, demand for installations, plantings, and hardscape work skyrockets. By the time many homeowners reach out in April or May, scheduling options may already be limited.
Booking a consultation in late fall or winter gives you priority placement on the calendar, allowing your project to move forward as soon as weather permits.
More Time for Thoughtful Design
Great outdoor spaces start with great design. When you start early, our design team has the opportunity to walk your property, understand your goals, draft detailed plans, and incorporate your feedback without the pressure of a looming deadline.
This planning phase often takes several weeks, especially for complex designs involving grading, drainage, lighting, or hardscaping. Beginning in the off-season means your vision is fully developed and ready for installation when the weather breaks.
Avoid Seasonal Material Shortages
Popular landscaping materials like natural stone, pavers, and certain plant varieties often become scarce during peak season. By starting your planning and ordering process early, we can secure the materials needed for your project, lock in current pricing, and ensure they're ready when it's time to build.
Build a Relationship with Your Landscaper
Consulting early gives you time to get to know your landscaping team. At Pickel Landscape Group, we view every project as a partnership. Starting in the off-season allows us to learn about your lifestyle, property use, and design preferences, while also discussing budget and timelines.
This relationship-building phase helps ensure smoother communication and a more enjoyable experience from concept through completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Get Started?
Winter may feel like the off-season, but it's actually the ideal time to begin planning your dream landscape. Contact us today to schedule your early consultation.
Want a professional to take care of this for you? Learn more about our Landscape Design service.
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