Planting & Softscape Services Calgary: Garden Design & Sod

There is no set time for the start of the season. Landscaping is extremely seasonal, we start our season once we can start putting shovels in the ground and the dirt isn’t frozen. Typically this is anywhere from middle of April to middle of May.

Sod and plants are more sensitive than ground work, patios, fences, etc. We like to wait until there is no frost risk to give your new greenery the best chance to establish. We start planting around the May long weekend – June 1st. If the weather permits us to start earlier we definitely will!

No, landscape estimates are free of charge. We will always come to your property unless you ask for a consultation at Garden Centre.

Yes! Our landscape division has an in-house landscape architect that can assist you with all your custom landscape needs. The cost of a design will vary yard to yard and will depend on the size of the design, how much is needed to be designed, and the time needed to make the drawings. If you get a plan from us and you want to complete the construction through Spruce It Up landscaping, we will reimburse the landscape design fee back onto your final landscaping invoice.

Yes! We offer free landscape design; however, the free estimate and design will only include consultation, a quick 2D plan to give you an idea of what you will be receiving if you decide to go ahead, and one free revision. Any additional revisions will be billed for $50/hour. The landscape design package includes much more information and freedom to make changes as necessary to come to a final product you are excited about. The design package includes a consultation, 2D design plan, 3D perspective renders, Planting plan, Dimensions plan, and up to 3 free revisions.

This is ultimately up to you; however, the design package is best for people that want a more customized approach with great visuals to truly show you what will be within your yard. The design package is also great for people that are looking to either DIY their yard, do it in phases, or already have a landscape company that is going to complete the work.

Project timelines will depend on the work that is being undertaken, however, we estimate that our crew can do $3,000.00 worth of work per day. So for example, if your job is approximately $12,000.00 we would estimate a job length of 4 days.

The basics of watering are simple. Water immediately after planting, let the water soak into the soil, and then water again. During the first few weeks it’s best to continue frequent watering Water plants deeply with a slow stream from the hose placed at the base of each plant. Once the water has created a small pool then move the hose to the next plant. This ensures that the roots grow down into the soil creating a stronger root system and plant. By watering only lightly the roots will stay at the top of the soil and long term will require watering more often, along with leaving them susceptible to winter kill. Following the first week, you’ll only need to water one to two times a week depending on weather conditions. All newly planted trees, shrubs and perennials should also be watered well just before the ground freezes in the late fall.

We recommend waiting a minimum of one year after moving into a brand-new house to start any landscaping. If you start to landscape too quickly, the soil can continue to settle, causing interlocking pathways to shift, concrete to crack, or soft scaping to become bumpy. At the very least, you should wait for at least one freeze and thaw for the soil to compact and become stable enough to support proper landscaping.

Irrigation systems are not necessary but will help you by doing the heavy lifting of ensuring your sod and plants are being watered thoroughly. Drip irrigation systems are also a great alternative to save water and your wallet. These systems target the roots of plants, allowing for a slow deep water that is needed for the roots allowing optimal root growth, saving you from water runoff, and giving you peace of mind.

Annual plants will only survive for 1 season, once we start getting colder weather they will not be able to survive. Perennials are plants that will go dormant over the winter and bloom back every Spring. Spruce It Up Garden Centre does sell annuals, however, the landscaping division will only plant perennials in your garden to ensure you can enjoy it season after season.