Smart Spending: Saving Money on Landscaping in Alexandria

by Patch Staff

Landscaping and lawn cutting services can be costly, but there are ways to save money—and that doesn't mean you have to do everything yourself.

Better Homes and Gardens recommends planning before you buy. Know exactly how many plants and how much mulch you'll need to avoid over-buying.

Another tip: "You may not need to hire a landscape architect or designer to develop your whole project, but $50-$100 for an hour-long consultation is well worth the money if it saves you from costly mistakes later."  

This Old House notes that lawns need a lot of water, and you can save money by having less of your yard devoted to grass. Pay attention to the weather forecast before watering (if it's going to rain, don't water!) to save money on your water bill.

How much do lawn services cost?

How much do you pay for your lawn service? And what does that cover — just mowing, or does it cover weeding, pruning, planting bushes?  

Please share in the comments below — we promise we won't judge you! And if you've got a lawn service you love, tell us that too. 

This is the first of an ongoing series, "What's the Going Rate for..." where Patch seeks to uncover how much things cost so you never have to ask again.