FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I work with an assistant, and the rate for both of us is between $40-50 per hour, depending upon labor intensity and needs. Clients who opt to hire us for ongoing maintenance get a lowered rate. If I work alone the rate is $25-30 per hour. Once I have worked regularly with a client for over a year I do offer a discount. I also have a large collection of perennials that I offer at wholesale prices.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I offer a free first visit, or free phone consult, to give an estimate. If the in-person lasts more than a half hour, I do charge a small fee if I am hired, added to the first invoice. I ask the client about their needs, assess their property and we discuss issues such as weed control, soil culture, design preferences and maintenance. I enjoy helping my clients learn more about gardening.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am mostly self-taught and have learned a great deal from friends who are professional landscape architects, gardeners and landscapers. I worked at the Berkshire Botanical Garden last spring a temporary gardener to help them get ready for their spring season, and this past year I completed my first year certificate in horticulture, and will be continuing to the second level in Fall 2018.