Is it worth getting a landscape designer?

Is It Worth Hiring a Landscape Designer? 

Picture this: You have a Pinterest board full of dream garden inspiration, a patchy lawn that’s begging for a glow-up, and exactly zero idea where to begin. Sound familiar?

For many homeowners, creating a magazine-worthy yard feels like a fantasy—especially when DIY landscaping often turns into a costly guessing game. That’s where a landscape designer comes in. But is it actually worth the investment?

In this article, we’ll break down what professional designers do, the surprising ways they save you money, and why thousands of homeowners are turning to smarter, more affordable services like ShrubHub to bring their outdoor visions to life.

What Does a Landscape Designer Actually Do?

A landscape designer is more than just a “plant stylist”—they’re part visionary, part architect, and part project manager. Their job is to take your outdoor space and turn it into a functional, beautiful, and personalized extension of your home.

Here’s what that looks like:

Custom Design Tailored to Your Life

Forget cookie-cutter layouts. A good designer takes into account your unique space, local climate, personal style, and how you actually live. Do you host backyard BBQs? Want a peaceful reading nook? Dreaming of a pollinator paradise? Your designer makes it happen.

Space Planning Like a Pro

From patios to pergolas, native plants to pet-safe turf, a landscape designer knows how to blend hardscapes and softscapes into one cohesive plan. They’ll also tackle essentials like irrigation systems and drainage—aka, things you probably didn’t even know you needed to consider.

Visual Previews: 2D & 3D Renderings

Before a single shovel hits the dirt, you’ll get a sneak peek of the finished design. Most designers offer 2D sketches or 3D virtual models, so you can visualize your dream space and tweak details before the real work begins.

Code Compliance & Contractor Coordination

Between city permits, HOA rules, and managing contractors, even the most motivated DIYers can feel overwhelmed. Landscape designers help navigate it all, ensuring your project runs smoothly and legally—without you losing sleep over zoning laws.

The Hidden Costs of DIY Landscaping

At first glance, DIY landscaping might seem like the budget-friendly option. After all, how hard can planting a few shrubs be? But without a solid plan or expertise, it’s surprisingly easy to waste both time and money.

Wasted Time and Materials

Trial-and-error planting can lead to expensive mistakes. Buying the wrong plants, placing them in poor spots, or using inadequate soil often results in replacements—and frustration. The cost of redoing a bed once (or twice) adds up quickly.

Drainage and Sun Mismatches

Many DIY landscapes suffer from improper site planning. Too much water, not enough sun, overcrowded beds—these are all common issues that can ruin plant health and curb appeal. Worse, they often don’t reveal themselves until months later, when it’s harder (and costlier) to fix.

Maintenance Headaches

Some plants seem like a great idea until you realize they require constant pruning, attract pests, or spread like wildfire. A professional landscape designer helps you choose low-maintenance, site-appropriate greenery that fits your lifestyle—and won’t turn into a chore.

Why Hiring a Pro Makes a Difference

Designers don’t just create beautiful spaces. They build landscapes that last. With the right layout, plant selections, and long-term planning, you can avoid rookie mistakes and enjoy a stress-free yard for years to come.

Why a Landscape Designer is a Smart Investment

Hiring a landscape designer might feel like an extra expense—but in reality, it’s one of the most effective ways to save money while upgrading your home. A professional brings strategy, structure, and serious cost-efficiency to the table—things you simply can’t pick up at the garden center.

Smarter Spending, Fewer Surprises

A designer helps you choose the right plants from the start—ones that thrive in your climate, require less water, and won’t need constant replacing. Add in the right materials for your pathways, patios, and borders, and you’ll avoid costly maintenance or premature repairs. Better yet, a well-planned space reduces waste—every dollar works harder when guided by an expert eye.

Budget Planning That Works for You

Landscape designers know how to stretch a budget without sacrificing results. From sourcing materials to prioritizing project phases, they help you avoid overspending—and get the most impact for your investment. ShrubHub’s all-in-one online design packages take it a step further by combining expert planning, custom renderings, and product sourcing into one affordable service.

Beyond the Basics: Value You Can See and Feel

Great landscaping isn’t just about plants—it’s about creating a space that looks incredible, adds value to your property, and actually works for your lifestyle. Whether it’s designing an inviting patio, integrating sustainable garden solutions, or boosting curb appeal with cohesive aesthetics, a landscape designer turns your yard into a true extension of your home.

And while big box stores may sell plants, they don’t sell vision. A designer helps you express your personal style while enhancing functionality, beauty, and environmental harmony all at once.

Conclusion: 

At the end of the day, hiring a landscape designer isn’t about spending more—it’s about doing it right the first time. From preventing costly mistakes to unlocking your yard’s full potential, a professional landscape design can completely transform your outdoor space and your daily life. Whether you’re dreaming of a serene garden retreat, an entertaining-ready patio, or simply want to boost your home’s value, expert planning is the foundation.

Why ShrubHub Is the Smart Choice

With ShrubHub, you get expert landscape design without the sky-high price tag. Our all-in-one online platform makes it easy to connect with professional designers, receive stunning 3D renderings of your yard, and access plant and material recommendations tailored to your region—all from the comfort of your home.

Better yet? ShrubHub’s packages are a fraction of the cost of traditional landscape design services, making high-end landscaping accessible to everyone, everywhere.

Your dream yard is just a click away.

ShrubHub.com