Why is Winter an Excellent Time to Start Your Landscaping Project
Landscaping in winter might seem odd. Cold rain and wind don’t usually make people think about outdoor patios and flowers. Most people enjoy their outdoor areas in warmer months and forget about their yard when the rain and snow start. However, winter can actually be a good time to begin planning your outdoor space.
Here are just a few reasons why now’s a great time to start your landscape design process.
Planning and Design Time
Designing in winter lets you take your time to create your vision. In spring and summer, there's pressure to rush through the design, often missing important details. Winter planning allows you to collaborate with your landscaper, browse Pinterest, visit nurseries, and figure out what you like.
Contractor Availability
Landscaping professionals tend to be less busy in the winter, meaning you’re more likely to book their time and potentially get better pricing. You’ll avoid the spring and summer rush when demand (and cost) tends to rise.
Cost Efficiency
Planning in the off-season can save money. When demand is low, you might find discounts on materials and services. Early planning helps you make better decisions, avoiding costly mistakes. A well-organized project stays on budget and makes the most of your money. You can also break projects into phases to spread out costs and enjoy the process.
See Your Outdoor Space Through Winter’s Lens
In late fall and winter, trees lose their leaves, making your garden look bare. This lets you identify spots that need sturdy plants to survive the cold and add interest during the winter. As a result, your garden design will be improved, creating a space that looks good all year.
Site Preparation and Hardscaping
Winter is a great time to install patios, decks, retaining walls, paths, and other hardscape features. Most plants are dormant, and the ground is firm, so winter hardscaping is easier on your property. Your lawn and soil will experience less damage from equipment, foot traffic, and digging during this season. By getting these elements in place early, you’ll be ready for planting as soon as spring arrives.
Trees and Shrub Planting
You can plant many trees and shrubs in winter when they are dormant, helping their roots grow before spring. Bare-root trees and shrubs are usually cheaper and do well when planted in winter, even if they seem a bit lifeless at first. Potted trees and shrubs can be planted any time of year, but they tend to be more expensive.
Weed and Pest Control
Tackling weeds and invasive plants in winter can prevent them from taking over in the spring. Some pests and diseases are easier to manage when plants are dormant.
Early Start for Spring Growth
If you prep soil, install irrigation, and set the foundation in winter, your garden will be ready to flourish as soon as temperatures rise. Mulching in winter also helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, setting up plants for success.
Starting in winter means you’ll have a well-planned, budget-friendly project that’s ready to go as soon as the weather warms up. Need help with your landscaping project? Ginger Gardens makes design and installation easy, so you can relax, enjoy your space, and create memories.
