5 Simple Steps to Your Dream Garden

Need a yard makeover? Here’s how to work with a garden designer and landscape team — from first conversation to final plant in the ground.

If your yard feels overgrown, underwhelming, or just not “you” — you’re not alone. We work with homeowners every day who are ready to swap patchy grass and tired shrubs for something more beautiful, more functional, and a whole lot more them.

Whether you're dreaming of a lush naturalistic meadow, a productive kitchen garden, or an inviting space for family and friends — here's our proven 5-step process to bring it to life.

Step 1: The Garden Consultation — Where Ideas Take Root

Every great garden starts with a walk-and-talk. We visit your space, listen to your ideas, and begin imagining the possibilities together.

We’ll explore:

  • How you want to use your yard — entertaining, relaxing, playing, growing food

  • Your favorite flowers and plants — the ones that bring you joy (yes, we’ll include them!)

  • Your site's sunlight, soil, slope, and drainage

  • Your dream aesthetic — naturalistic, modern, cozy, romantic

  • Your budget and how we can creatively work within it

This is a judgment-free zone. Whether your budget is modest or you’re ready to go big, we’ll find smart, beautiful solutions to maximize impact while honoring your priorities.

We’ll also start thinking about garden zones — like a cozy fire pit corner, a raised kitchen garden near the kitchen door, a lawn space for yard games, or a lounge zone for reading and wine o’clock. A good garden flows just like a well-designed home — with rooms and rhythm.

Step 2: Prioritize & Phase the Project

Not everything has to happen all at once — and that’s a good thing! We specialize in breaking your dream garden into realistic, bite-sized phases that align with your timeline and your budget.

We’ll help you:

  • Identify high-priority areas to start with (like curb appeal or the backyard hangout zone)

  • Map out a phased approach that makes sense for your lifestyle and spending goals

  • Ensure that each phase builds on the last, so nothing feels disconnected

This approach gives you breathing room — and lets your garden grow with you.

Step 3: Design, Planning, Sourcing & Scheduling

This is where the magic happens behind the scenes. We take your ideas, preferences, and site details and create a custom garden design that reflects your vision and your values.

This includes:

  • A planting plan layered with texture, color, and bloom times for all-season interest

  • Your favorite flowers, woven into low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly combinations

  • Naturalistic swaths of grasses and perennials that evolve with the seasons

  • Smart zoning — raised beds for veggies, nooks for lounging, play space for kids or pets

  • A sourcing plan that balances beauty, durability, and budget

  • A schedule that aligns with optimal planting windows and your timeline

We love finding creative ways to stretch your budget while delivering lasting beauty and impact.

Step 4: Demo & Site Prep — Out With the Old

This is when the transformation begins. Our trusted landscape team preps your site, clearing what no longer serves and creating the foundation for something better.

Prep work includes:

  • Removing turf, concrete, or overgrown plants

  • Improving soil health, drainage, and grading

  • Installing foundational elements — irrigation, edging, stonework

  • Laying out plant zones and hardscape spaces

With the right prep, we ensure your garden not only looks beautiful — but thrives for years to come.

Step 5: Installation — Watch Your Garden Come to Life

The moment you’ve been waiting for! Plants go in, pathways appear, mulch is spread, and your space begins its transformation from “yard” to garden.

During installation, we:

  • Place plants for maximum effect and long-term health

  • Bring in seating areas, lighting, boulders, and any finishing elements

  • Create that signature layered look — with no bare spots by midsummer

  • Provide coaching or maintenance support to help your garden settle in

And don’t worry — we’re with you through the whole process, making adjustments as needed so the final result feels just right.

Ready to Design a Garden That Works for You?

We believe every outdoor space holds potential — no matter the size, condition, or budget. Whether you’re starting with a small corner or reimagining your entire yard, we’ll guide you with creativity, care, and a plan that honors your vision and your reality.

Let’s bring your dream garden to life — together.
Book your garden consultation now or download our free planting guide to get started.

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