Landscaping plays a vital role in enhancing the appearance and value of your property. However, the cost of landscaping can vary greatly depending on the scope of the project, the size of the area, and the materials and features you choose to incorporate. This article will guide you through the average costs associated with landscaping in Colorado and what factors you should consider when planning your project.

The Average Cost of Landscaping in Colorado

Landscaping costs in Colorado can range widely, depending on what you want to achieve. For basic lawn maintenance, you might spend as little as $5,000 to $10,000. However, for a comprehensive landscaping project that includes outdoor spaces, pathways, trees, and water features, costs can escalate to $50,000 or more. In some cases, more elaborate projects can even exceed $150,000.

As a general guideline, the cost of landscaping should not exceed 10% of your home’s value. For example, if your home is valued at $750,000, you should budget no more than $75,000 for your landscaping project.

Factors That Impact Landscaping Costs

Several key factors influence the overall cost of a landscaping project in Colorado:

1. Size of the Project:
   • The size of your yard directly affects the cost. Larger yards require more materials, labor, and time to landscape. On average, landscaping costs range from $4 to $12 per square foot, but this can vary based on the specific location and condition of the land.
2. Features and Materials:
   • The features you choose to include, such as patios, retaining walls, pergolas, and water features, will significantly impact the total cost. For example, installing a basic pergola might cost between $4,000 and $10,000, while a custom-built gazebo could range from $8,000 to $15,000.
   • Your choice of materials also plays a significant role in the overall cost. High-quality materials like flagstone for patios or natural boulders for retaining walls will be more expensive than basic concrete or cinder blocks.
3. Labor Costs:
   • Labor is another significant factor, especially if your project requires specialized skills. Landscaping companies in Colorado typically charge between $75 and $125 per hour for a crew of two. If your project involves complex elements like custom stonework or intricate planting designs, expect the labor costs to be on the higher end of that range.
   • Additionally, if your project requires the expertise of a landscape designer or architect, you’ll need to budget for their services, which can range from $200 to $300 per hour.

Estimated Landscaping Costs by Project Size

Project Size	Average Cost Range
Small	$5,000 – $10,000
Medium	$20,000 – $50,000
Large	$50,000 – $150,000+

Defining Project Sizes

• Small: Basic Lawn Maintenance
• Medium: Includes Custom Patios, Shrubs, Small Water Features
• Large: Full Landscaping with Outdoor Spaces, Pathways, Large Trees, and Extensive Features.

Estimated Costs for Common Landscaping Features

Feature	Average Cost
Patios	$15 – $30 per square foot
Retaining Walls	$15 – $40 per square foot
Pergolas	$4,000 – $10,000
Gazebos	$8,000 – $15,000
Arbors	$500 – $5,000
Decks	$3,000 – $30,000+
Fencing	$1,000 – $5,000+
Lawn Installation	$6,440 for 2,000 square feet
Tree Trimming	$250 – $500 per tree
Tree Removal	$150 – $1,500+ per tree

Estimated Costs for Landscaping Materials

Material	Average Cost
Landscape Boulders	$150 per ton
Landscape Gravel	$20 – $30 per square foot
Lawn Turf	$10 – $20 per square foot
Retaining Wall	$15 – $40 per square foot
Crushed Stone	$3 – $5 per square foot
Crushed Granite	$3 – $5 per square foot
Stone Steps	$100 – $300 per step
River Rocks	$100 – $800 per ton
Lava Rocks	$75 per ton

Questions to Ask Your Landscaping Company

Choosing the right landscaping company is crucial to ensuring that your project is completed to your satisfaction. Asking the right questions can help you determine whether a company is the right fit for your needs. Here are some important questions to consider when interviewing a landscaping company:

1. How many years of experience do you have in landscaping?
   • Experience matters, especially in a state like Colorado where the climate can pose unique challenges. Ask about their experience with similar projects in your area.
2. Can I see a portfolio of your past work?
   • Reviewing a portfolio allows you to assess the quality of their work and see if their style aligns with your vision.
3. Do you have references from previous clients?
   • Speaking with past clients can provide insight into the company’s reliability, work ethic, and ability to meet deadlines and budgets.
4. What is the estimated timeline for my project?
   • Understanding the timeline helps you plan around the landscaping work and sets expectations for when your outdoor space will be ready.
5. Will my project require a permit, and will you handle that process?
   • Some landscaping projects may require permits, especially if they involve structures like decks or retaining walls. Make sure the company is knowledgeable about local regulations and willing to handle the permitting process.
6. What materials do you recommend for my project, and why?
   • The choice of materials can greatly impact both the cost and longevity of your landscaping. Ask for their recommendations and reasoning to ensure you’re getting the best value.
7. How do you handle unexpected challenges during the project?
   • Landscaping projects can encounter unexpected issues, such as unanticipated soil conditions or weather delays. Understanding how the company handles these situations can give you peace of mind.
8. What kind of warranty or guarantee do you offer on your work?
   • A warranty or guarantee shows that the company stands behind their work and is willing to correct any issues that arise after the project is completed.
9. How will you ensure that my landscaping project stays within budget?
   • Budget overruns can be a concern with any large project. Ask how the company plans to manage costs and keep the project within the agreed budget.
10. Who will be the primary point of contact during the project?
    • Clear communication is key to a successful project. Knowing who to contact with questions or concerns will help keep the project on track.
11. Do you offer maintenance services after the project is completed?
    • Regular maintenance is essential to keep your landscape looking its best. Ask if the company provides ongoing services or if they can recommend someone who does.
12. What is your process for ensuring the job site is clean and safe?
    • Landscaping projects can be messy and sometimes hazardous. It’s important to know how the company will manage safety and cleanliness on your property.
13. Can you provide a detailed estimate that includes all potential costs?
    • A comprehensive estimate helps avoid surprises and ensures that you understand all the costs involved, including labor, materials, permits, and any additional fees.

Examples of Our Landscape Design Work and The Cost

The Low Maintenance Xeriscape: $20k

This front yard was a complete demo and redesign.  This area includes new irrigation work, a new retaining wall, new shrubs, new steps, dry creek river bed, rock and mulch beds.  This is approximately $20k.

The “I Miss My Home State’s Water” Backyard Oasis: $75k

The “I’m On A Budget,” And We Respect That: $12k

This project  involved new irrigation, new shrubs and trees, and three new boulder retaining walls. The new walls were approximately $7,500 and the plantings and irrigation work were approximately $12,000.

Hire a Colorado Springs Landscaping Company

Landscaping is an investment that can significantly boost both the aesthetics and value of your property. In Colorado, where outdoor living spaces are highly valued, a well-designed landscape can also enhance your enjoyment of your home. While the costs can vary widely depending on the scope of your project, understanding the factors that influence these costs will help you budget effectively.

If you’re ready to transform your outdoor space, contact Alpine Landscaping today for a free quote and start planning your dream landscape in Colorado.