Question 1

How much does landscaping cost in NYC?

Accepted Answer

NYC landscaping costs vary widely based on scope. Basic lawn care and maintenance runs $200-$500/month. Garden design and installation starts at $5,000-$15,000 for small spaces. Full backyard transformations range from $15,000-$75,000+. Rooftop gardens and terrace builds can run $50,000-$200,000+ depending on structural requirements and access.

Question 2

Do I need a permit for landscaping in New York City?

Accepted Answer

Most standard landscaping (planting, mulching, lawn care) does not require a permit. However, you need permits from the NYC Department of Buildings for structural work like retaining walls over 4 feet, decks, pergolas, fences over 6 feet, and any work affecting drainage or grading. Rooftop gardens almost always require engineering approval and permits.

Question 3

What plants grow best in NYC's climate?

Accepted Answer

NYC is in USDA Hardiness Zones 7a and 7b. Great choices include: Japanese maples, hydrangeas, hostas, ferns, boxwood, lavender, echinacea, black-eyed Susans, ornamental grasses, and native species like Eastern red columbine. For shade gardens (common in NYC), hostas, astilbe, and ferns thrive.

Question 4

When is the best time to start a landscaping project in NYC?

Accepted Answer

Spring (March-May) is ideal for most planting and installation. Fall (September-November) is excellent for planting trees, shrubs, and perennials because roots establish before winter. Hardscaping (patios, walkways, retaining walls) can be done year-round but is best in spring through fall. Plan major projects in winter for spring installation.

Question 5

Can you do landscaping on a NYC rooftop?

Accepted Answer

Yes, rooftop landscaping is one of our specialties. Key considerations include structural load capacity (a structural engineer must verify), waterproofing membrane protection, wind exposure (rooftops get 2-3x ground-level wind), irrigation access, and building management approval. We handle all engineering coordination and DOB permits.

Question 6

How long does a typical landscaping project take?

Accepted Answer

Timeline depends on scope: basic garden planting takes 1-3 days, patio or walkway installation takes 1-2 weeks, full backyard redesign takes 3-6 weeks, and rooftop garden installation takes 4-8 weeks. Permit-required projects add 4-8 weeks for approval. We provide detailed timelines during your free estimate.

Question 7

Do you offer year-round maintenance plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our maintenance plans cover all four seasons: spring cleanup and planting, summer mowing/watering/weeding, fall leaf removal and winterization, and winter snow removal and salt management. Plans start at $200/month for small spaces and scale based on property size and service frequency.

Question 8

What is hardscaping and do you do it?

Accepted Answer

Hardscaping refers to the non-plant elements of landscaping: patios, walkways, retaining walls, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, water features, pergolas, and fencing. Yes, we handle all hardscaping. In NYC, hardscaping is especially important because of limited space — a well-designed patio or stone walkway maximizes usable outdoor area.

Question 9

Can you work with small NYC backyards?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Small-space design is a core specialty for NYC landscaping. We transform tiny courtyards, narrow side yards, and compact backyards (even 100-200 sq ft) into beautiful outdoor retreats using vertical gardens, container planting, multi-level design, and space-efficient hardscaping. Some of our best work is in the smallest spaces.

Question 10

Do you handle snow removal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer commercial and residential snow removal across all five boroughs. Services include plowing, shoveling, salting/de-icing, and ongoing monitoring during storms. NYC requires property owners to clear sidewalks within 4 hours of snowfall ending (or by 11am for overnight snow), so timely service is critical.

Question 11

What is the difference between landscape design and landscape architecture?

Accepted Answer

Landscape design focuses on plant selection, garden layout, and aesthetic planning. Landscape architecture involves structural and engineering elements — grading, drainage systems, retaining walls, load-bearing structures, and code compliance. For most NYC residential projects, landscape design is sufficient. For rooftops, large commercial spaces, or projects requiring permits, landscape architecture expertise is needed.

Question 12

How do you handle irrigation in NYC?

Accepted Answer

We install drip irrigation systems, micro-sprinklers, and automated timer systems. For rooftop gardens, we connect to building water supply with proper backflow prevention. For ground-level gardens, we tap into existing outdoor spigots or install new water lines. Smart irrigation controllers adjust watering based on weather data, saving 30-50% on water usage.

Question 13

Do you install outdoor lighting?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We design and install landscape lighting including path lights, uplighting for trees, accent lighting for architectural features, deck and patio lighting, and string light installations. We use low-voltage LED systems for energy efficiency and safety. Proper lighting extends the usability of outdoor spaces and adds dramatic curb appeal.

Question 14

What about drainage issues in my yard?

Accepted Answer

Drainage is a common NYC issue due to clay-heavy soil and aging infrastructure. We install French drains, channel drains, dry wells, rain gardens, and regrading solutions. Proper drainage prevents foundation damage, eliminates standing water, and protects plantings. Every project starts with a drainage assessment.

Question 15

Can you build a fence or privacy screen?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We install wood fences, composite fencing, metal panels, living privacy screens (arborvitae, bamboo, privet hedges), and custom trellises with climbing plants. NYC generally allows fences up to 6 feet without a permit. Higher fences or those on property lines require DOB permits and neighbor notification.

Question 16

Do you work with co-ops and condo buildings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we work extensively with co-op and condo boards across NYC. We handle common area landscaping, courtyard gardens, rooftop spaces, entrance plantings, and seasonal displays. We coordinate with building management, attend board meetings when needed, and carry the insurance coverage required by most buildings.

Question 17

How do you handle tree planting and removal in NYC?

Accepted Answer

Tree planting on private property is straightforward. For street trees, NYC Parks Department approval is required. Tree removal of any tree with a trunk diameter over 6 inches on private property requires a Tree Removal Permit from NYC Parks. We handle all permit applications. Illegal tree removal carries fines up to $15,000 per tree.

Question 18

What sustainable or eco-friendly landscaping options do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer native plant gardens (low water, low maintenance), rain gardens for stormwater management, permeable pavers that reduce runoff, organic lawn care without synthetic chemicals, pollinator gardens for bees and butterflies, composting systems, and drought-tolerant xeriscaping. NYC offers tax incentives for green infrastructure like green roofs and rain gardens.

Question 19

Do you provide free estimates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, every project starts with a free on-site estimate. We visit your property, discuss your vision, assess site conditions (sun, soil, drainage, access), and provide a detailed written estimate within 3-5 business days. There is no obligation. Call us at (212) 202-8770 or fill out our online form to schedule.

Question 20

What areas of NYC do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve all five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. We also serve nearby areas in Nassau County, Westchester County, and Hudson County, NJ. Our crews are based in Midtown Manhattan and deploy across the city daily.

Question 21

How do seasonal changes affect my landscape?

Accepted Answer

NYC's four distinct seasons require proactive care. Spring: cleanup, pruning, fresh mulch, and new plantings. Summer: regular mowing, watering, pest management, and deadheading. Fall: leaf removal, aeration, overseeding, bulb planting, and winterization. Winter: protecting tender plants, snow removal, and planning next year's projects.

Question 22

Can you create an outdoor living space on my terrace?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Terrace and balcony gardens are a NYC specialty. We create full outdoor living rooms with container plantings, built-in seating, privacy screens, lighting, and even small water features. Weight limits are always assessed first. We select lightweight containers and growing media to stay within structural capacity.

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