Landscapers

Choosing a landscaper can be a pain in the grass. But you'll minimize your stress by following a few simple rules. Probably the first — and easiest — one to remember, is "seeing is believing." Take a look at the work your landscaper-to-be has done elsewhere, and call some references. Most reliable companies will be more than pleased to provide lists of clients for you to view their work. Use people that have been in the business for a few years.

You should get itemized quotes. Landscaping jobs should have at least a year, better yet, a two-year warranty on all plant management. Finally, insist on a completion date and payment schedule. Never give more than a 10 or 20 percent deposit up front. Narrow your choices down to several landscapers and then arrange a face-to-face meeting with each one. Request information on their education and years of experience. Ask whether they have workman's compensation insurance for their employees, are licensed with the city (if that is required in your area) and if they have insurance to cover any damage to your property. Check with the Better Business Bureau of Coastal Carolina, 321 N. Front Street, Wilmington, (910) 341-3006, for any complaints against them. Most importantly, communicate with your designer, architect and/or builder about what you want and need. Ensure there is open communication between yourself and them. Sign a contract before any physical landscape work is done. This protects you. Failure to do so may see costs escalate and work done that is not required or desired.

Contact the New Hanover County Cooperative Extension, (910) 452-6393, www.gardeningnhc.org; they may know landscapers who have taken classes there. Another option is to contact the state's Nursery Association, www.nclandscape.org, a chapter of the American Nursery & Landscape Association, www.anla.org, whose members will be qualified and educated for the most part. Even if you don't find the names of local landscapers in these places, you'll find a wealth of information and links to assist in your landscaping efforts. We also suggest the Association of Professional Landscape Designers, (717) 238-9780, www.lapld.com, and HortSource, www.hortsource.com, for very valuable assistance, links and publications.

Stone Garden
6955 Market St., Wilmington
910-452-1619
www.stonegarden-nc.com