When is the best time to start on your landscape project?

Been contemplating getting your backyard project started? It’s in your best interest to start as soon as you can! An outdoor project can become a several month process from design to the final product. It’s a home improvement project that requires planning and attention. 

If I want to enjoy my yard this summer, when should I hire a contractor? 

Aim to start your project planning a fall or winter prior so you can ensure you are all set to get moving in spring. With the pandemic, there has been a spike in landscape outdoor projects. With that comes longer wait times, low material availability, and short labor staff. Luxterra Outdoors team is here to help facilitate the contractor process for you and get boots on the ground running for your next project.  

 

Can I make any progress on my yard in winter? 

It is strategic to start your design in winter if your climate experiences freezing temperatures that restrain labor. By the time the weather warms, you can resume installation with a design in hand and contractor to get your project installed. Reaching out to a contractor in winter is also a good idea because you improve your odds of getting on their calendar sooner and avoid the spring rush wait time. Contractors will be more available for site visits, client consultations and more. If you prioritize customer experience you can expect you and your project to receive the most attention during winter time. 

 

What is the best time to plant? 

If you live in cooler climate weather, Fall or spring is recommended. Plants installed in the Fall or Spring have the rest of the season to bulk up their root systems, aided by cool air and precipitation that keep the soil moist and help bulk up the root system.  Planting is most often the final step in your project. So if you are thinking of the best timing for optimal planting, consider the steps that come before it. 

 

Start now

While needless to say winter can be a great time to start, the truth is landscape design projects are happening year long. Considering the dynamic climate change, contractor availability, product supply and demand –  the worst thing you can do is wait. Waiting only leads to not getting your project started or completed, higher costs down the road, and another year you and your family did not spend the time that they deserve in your anticipated dream backyard.  

 

Reach out to us today! We can help you get started on your next outdoor living project!

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is design-build more expensive?

Design-build often shows a higher number on the initial quote because design and construction costs are priced together up front. At Luxterra, that means a project in the $50,000 to $100,000 range is scoped as one engagement from the start, so change orders are less likely to surface once installation begins—which is where much of the cost difference in traditional bids actually plays out.

What’s the fastest way to build an outdoor living space?

Starting with a single design-build team is generally the fastest path, since the same company that designs your space also schedules and builds it, without waiting on a separate contractor to bid the finished plans.

How do I avoid contractor miscommunication?

Choosing a design-build firm removes most of the coordination burden, since one team owns both the plan and the execution. If you are pursuing a traditional approach instead, get every material, dimension, and cost detail in writing before construction begins and confirm both your designer and installer have approved the same version of the plan.
See It Before We Build It

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Starting with a 3D design plan lets you walk through your layout, test material choices, and confirm every detail before a single stone is moved.
Your Project, Thoughtfully Planned

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Designing and building dream landscapes across Naperville, Chicago, and the western suburbs.

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Based in Naperville, IL.
Serving greater Chicago.

Office Hours
Mon–Fri: 7:00a – 6:00p
Sat–Sun: Closed
© 2026 Luxterra Outdoors
Most projects begin in the $25k+ range.