Plan Now, Save Later

By: Rosalie Merriner 

Imagine you have an idea to revamp your backyard—adding a cozy fire pit, a beautiful pergola, and a stunning outdoor kitchen. When is the best time to start inquiring? The earlier, the better. Even though it’s only May, many contractors are already booked well into the fall. Timing isn’t always top of mind, but it plays a major role in both the process and the quality of your final design.

Contractor Availability

Contractor availability can be one of the biggest factors affecting the cost and timeline of your project. By May, many high-quality contractors are already scheduled months in advance. It’s important to understand that your project begins long before a crew arrives on-site. Before construction starts, there are design consultations, cost estimates, and material orders—all of which can take several weeks. If permits are required, that adds even more time to the process.

None of this is a problem, it's simply the flow of a well-planned project. However, the earlier you begin the conversation, the smoother and less stressful the experience will be for both you and your contractor. Rushed timelines often lead to rushed decisions, and compromising on quality can cost you more in the long run.

Planting Considerations

Another key factor to consider is plant selection and timing. This is part of the design phase, and planning it properly can make the difference between plants thriving or failing.

For example, if your project starts in July, planting a large number of young plants during the intense summer heat in Nevada may not be ideal. Extreme temperatures can stress new plants, increasing the chances that they won’t survive. Replacing plants not only adds frustration but also unnecessary expense.

So, what’s the better approach? Work with your contractor to explore options such as:

• Using more mature, established plants

• Planting in shaded or protected areas

• Adjusting the project timeline when possible

At Antonucci Lawn and Garden, these factors are carefully considered. Experienced designers who understand the local climate can plan effectively around Nevada’s weather, helping ensure your investment lasts.

Final Thoughts

Planning ahead is one of the smartest decisions you can make when starting a landscaping project. Getting an early start gives you more flexibility, better design options, and a smoother overall experience. Instead of rushing to meet deadlines or risking costly mistakes, you’ll be setting your project up for long-term success—both in how it looks and how it performs over time.