Should you hire a backyard designer?

Hiring a backyard designer is an individual decision that can be right for some homeowners but not for others. Cons of hiring a designer include the additional expense, and pros include the ability to benefit from a professional's expertise and a design that is tailored to your climate and needs.

Many large landscaping companies provide backyard design services at no charge when the company is performing the landscaping work or the homeowner enters into a recurring landscaping contract. However, homeowners can also choose to hire an independent landscape designer and complete the work themselves. Some designers provide a rate for the whole package, while others work on an hourly basis.