5 Ways to Reduce Spring Landscaping Costs!
Here in the Carolinas, spring looks like it may finally be pushing through—following on the heels of an unusually lengthy and unpredictable winter season! Indeed, just a month ago, Carolina natives were beset with surprising bouts of snow—which means that for many homeowners and HOAs alike, spring lawn maintenance had been delayed. The time for getting that landscaping under way may finally be upon us, though—and the same is likely true for communities across the country.
For the HOA board, spring landscaping season means making sure that common areas are looking their best; of course, it is also important to do this spring landscaping work on a budget, saving the association a few bucks wherever you can. Below are a few ways in which your HOA board can reduce the costs of this spring’s landscaping work.
- Do your research before purchasing any new plants, and make sure you obtain plants that are indigenous to your geographic area. This helps ensure that those plants will survive, and will require relatively little maintenance.
- Consider the relative pros and cons or annuals versus perennials. Annuals will be cheaper, but will only last a year; perennials will be more expensive, but they will last for several seasons, if properly cared for. Think about the option that makes the most sense for your budget.
- Shop around for the best prices on plants and landscaping supplies—remembering that many online vendors are going to offer very competitive pricing.
- If you’re looking for plush, healthy grass, let it grow to about two inches before mowing it—otherwise, you risk damaging the grass and needing to re-sow down the line.
- Review bids from at least three different landscaping vendors—making sure you get the best price, but also remembering that the cheapest option is not always the best, if the service is subpar.
For community associations, landscaping is an important concern—not just from an aesthetic perspective, but from a budgetary one, as well!
