Jumping Worms & How They Affect Soil & Plant Health

What Drives the Cost of a Landscape Project? No two landscape projects are the same, which is why pricing can vary so much from one property to another. Understanding what affects cost helps homeowners make better decisions and prioritize where to invest. 1. Site Conditions Your existing property plays a big role in cost. Slopes, drainage issues, heavy soils, limited access for equipment, or grading needs can all add labor and time. 2. Design Complexity (Design + Build Integration) A simple patio and planting plan will cost far less than a multi-level outdoor living space with built-in lighting, seating walls, water features, and custom details. In a design/build approach, complexity goes beyond the layout—it also includes how each part is built, scheduled, and put together on-site. Projects with multiple materials, level changes, and built features require more coordination between planning and installation, as well as more skilled work to bring everything together. 3. Materials Selected Materials do affect cost—natural stone, premium pavers, hardwoods, and custom features are typically more expensive than basic options. However, materials are only one part of the total picture. Why “Just Swapping Materials” Isn’t Always Simple One common misunderstanding is the idea that you can easily lower cost by swapping materials. While that sounds simple, labor, jobsite logistics, and installation challenges often have a bigger impact on price than materials alone. For example, something as "simple as" replacing mulch with cobblestone may still involve: Prep work and grading Removal and disposal of existing materials Tight access that requires hand work Multiple crew members over several days Equipment limits or hauling materials by wheelbarrow In many cases, the time and skilled work needed stay very similar, even if the material changes. 4. Project Size Larger projects naturally require more materials, labor, and time, which increases overall cost. 5. Custom Features Custom-built elements like outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, pergolas, or built-in seating require more planning and skilled installation, which adds to the investment. 6. Access and Logistics Not all job sites are easy to work on. Limited access may require smaller equipment, extra labor, or moving materials by hand, all of which affect time and cost. Why Process Matters as Much as Materials At formecology LLC, we use a combined design and build process. This means we think through how everything will be built, scheduled, and installed—not just how it looks on paper. This includes: Crew size and coordination Equipment access and site logistics Drainage and structural work Order of installation These details aren’t always visible, but they play a major role in both cost and long-term success. Not All Landscape Projects Are the Same Some companies focus on basic installation or simple upgrades, while others specialize in more detailed, custom outdoor spaces built through a full design/build process. At formecology LLC, our focus is on well-planned, well-built outdoor environments that feel like a natural extension of your home. That level of planning and craftsmanship takes more investment—but it also leads to a smoother process and better long-term results. __________________________________________________________________________________________ A well-planned design/build process helps avoid surprises, reduces costly changes, and ensures your investment is used wisely. It’s not just about building a beautiful space—it’s about building it the right way from the start. If you’re considering a project, we’re happy to talk through what’s possible for your space.

How Much Should You Budget for a Landscape Project? One of the first questions homeowners ask when considering a landscape project is: “How much is this going to cost?” The answer depends less on a fixed number and more on the size of the project, site conditions, materials, and how detailed the design is. Having a general range can still help you plan realistically and avoid surprises. For most professionally designed residential landscape projects, budgets typically fall into three broad ranges: Entry-Level Enhancements ($10,000–$30,000) These projects focus on specific improvements such as planting beds, mulch, edging, basic lighting, or small patios and walkways. They’re ideal for refreshing certain areas without a full-yard renovation. Mid-Range Transformations ($30,000–$100,000) This range often includes more complete projects—larger patios, planting plans, outdoor lighting systems, retaining walls, and grading or drainage improvements. These projects start to significantly change how the outdoor space looks and functions. High-End Custom Outdoor Living Spaces ($100,000+) At this level, landscapes are fully customized and often include multiple outdoor living areas, extensive hardscaping, built-in features, water elements, outdoor kitchens, and advanced lighting systems. These projects are tailored to the home and how you want to live outdoors. These ranges are not fixed prices—they are planning guidelines. The final cost depends on your property, your goals, and how the project is designed and built. Phased Projects: A Smart Way to Approach Larger Budgets For homeowners who want to work toward a larger vision, projects can often be completed in phases: Phase 1: Core outdoor living space (patio, grading, primary planting) Phase 2: Additional features (walkways, walls, secondary beds) Phase 3: Enhancements (extensive hardscaping, water features, expanded living areas) This approach allows you to spread investment over time while maintaining a cohesive design.  ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Every property is different, and so is every budget. The key is understanding what you want your outdoor space to do for you, then building a plan that brings that vision to life in a realistic way.

Spring work begins as our crew returns to start cleanups, maintenance, and new landscape projects for the season ahead.

Create a healthier, low-maintenance yard with native plants that conserve water, reduce maintenance, and support pollinators in Wisconsin

formecology, LLC proudly accepts three awards at the “CotY” (Contractor of the Year) “Celebrating Excellence” ceremony on November 9th! The event was hosted by NARI of Madison (National Association of the Remodeling Industry). NARI is an organization of high-quality remodeling professionals. Its members are committed to integrity, high standards, professional education, ethics and market recognition. The CotY is a prestigious award presented each year to NARI members who have demonstrated outstanding work through their remodeling projects. Winning projects must meet score requirements under the following criteria: To what degree were the expressed needs of the client met? To what degree does the project enhance the existing structures functionally? To what degree does the project enhance the existing structure aesthetically? Is there evidence of superior craftsmanship? Were innovative uses of material and/or methods of construction used in the project?