Fancy Creek Landscaping

Question and Answer

General ~

  1. Why should I invest in landscaping?

    In addition to the aesthetic value, a well designed landscape can add value to your property that continues to increase over time. Proper planting can reduce energy costs, prevent erosion, and reduce noise. Lighting can add a new dimension to your landscaping and increase security and safety. Walls and paving can increase your living area and usable yard space. Water features can mask noise and provide a relaxing outdoor environment.

  2. What does residential landscaping cost?

    Basic foundation beds (front, sides, and rear) typically range from 3 to 6% of the house value. These costs depend on site preparation required, size of installed plants, soil conditions, material selection, drainage required, etc.

    Additions of paving, walls, structures, water features, irrigation, etc. will raise this percentage.

  3. How do I get started?

    Contact us to discuss your project and schedule an on-site visit.

  4. What areas do you serve?

    Most of are projects are within a 30 mile radius of Springfield. There may be exceptions based on project size.

Design ~

  1. What is a landscape design?

    It is the result of a process that includes defining client objectives, site analysis and measurement, problem solving, material selection, and cost estimating.

    The output from this process is a master plan, planting plan. In addition, there may be construction drawings, elevation drawings, sketches, 3D renderings, photo imaging, plant lists, plant photos, etc. depending on the client's needs and preferences.

  2. Why do I need a design?

    A design provides the client with the documentation and information to visualize the finished product, guide the homeowner through a "do-it-yourself" project, or provide specifications to get "apples to apples" quotes from contactors.

  3. What does a design cost?

    Very simple designs start at $70 and go up from there. The actual cost depends on project size, complexity, and site mapping required.

  4. How do I start the design process?

    Contact us to discuss your project and schedule an on-site meeting.

Estimates ~

  1. What is an estimate?

    An estimate is not a design. An FCL estimate is a list of projects or project parts with approximate costs or cost ranges. It is not a detailed list of labor and material items with specific costs. These estimates are intended for planning, budgeting, or determining feasibility.

  2. Do you charge for estimates?

    There is no charge for estimates unless they are for insurance claims or legal action.

Contracts ~

  1. Do you provide written contracts?

    Yes, we use written proposals and change orders with very few exceptions.

  2. What is proposal?

    A proposal is a document that lists materials, labor, equipment, subcontract services, etc. required to complete the project. It also includes the project description, specifications, costs, schedule, and payment terms. A proposal signed by both parties constitutes a contract.

Installation ~

  1. Can I do part of the project myself to reduce costs?

    Yes, we can provide anything from a design to a complete installation. We often do demolition, etc. then allow the customer to complete the project. This works fine for small retaining walls, some paving projects, and planting beds.

  2. Do you offer a plant warranty?

    Yes, we warranty our plants for a period of (1) year. With proper selection, installation, and care, plant loss is negligible. Our warranty provides plant replacement including installation.

  3. When is the best time to plant?

    Spring is the best season for plant selection and the second best time for planting. Fall is the best season for planting and the second best for plant selection.

    Most deciduous trees are best planted during dormancy (mid November thru mid December). Most evergreen trees should be planted in Spring or early Fall.

    With a few exceptions, container grown plants can be installed any time from ground thaw to freeze. Proper watering is more critical with summer installed plants.

    Seeding can be done in Spring, but the ideal time is late August thru the end of October. Sodding can be done thru the growing season, as long as it receives enough water during the hot dry weather.

  4. Can we complete the landscaping in stages?

    Yes, we often do a design for the entire property, and spread the installation over several seasons. Generally, hardscapes (paving, walls, structures, etc.) are constructed first then plant installation later. Projects can also be divided by area as long as access is not restricted for later phases.