Welcome to the third instalment of our mega landscaping series! Creating a dream garden is an exciting journey, but it’s important to understand landscaping costs to budget effectively and make informed decisions about your outdoor project. From professional fees and material costs to ongoing maintenance, this guide will help you navigate the financial side of landscaping and ensure your investment adds long-term value.
Why Do Landscaping Costs Vary?
Landscaping costs can vary widely depending on several factors. For instance, the size of your property plays a major role, as larger spaces require more materials, labour, and time. The complexity of your design is another key factor—a straightforward lawn installation is much more affordable than an intricate custom landscape featuring artificial grass, natural stone paving, or water features.
The materials you choose also impact the overall cost. High-quality or imported options, such as synthetic grass or natural stone, may come at a premium but provide greater durability and an elevated aesthetic. Finally, the level of professional expertise required will affect your budget. Hiring landscape architects, garden designers, or contractors involves higher upfront costs, but their knowledge ensures professional results that can prevent costly mistakes down the road.
A thoughtfully designed landscape is more than just an expense—it’s an investment in your property’s value and your enjoyment of the space.
Professional Fees: What to Expect for Landscaping Costs
Hiring professionals ensures your landscaping project is executed with precision and quality, but it’s important to understand the associated costs. Landscape architects typically charge between 10% and 20% of the total project cost, making them an excellent choice for large or complex designs. General landscaping companies often offer package deals ranging from R20,000 to over R100,000, depending on the scope of work, including garden installation and ongoing maintenance.
Specialist contractors are another option, especially for specific tasks like driveway paving or sprinkler system installation. Their rates can range from R500 to R1,500 per hour or project. While these costs may seem high, the expertise they provide often justifies the investment. On the other hand, DIY landscaping can be a more cost-effective option, especially for smaller tasks. However, it requires significant time, effort, and planning to avoid costly errors.
Material Costs
The choice of materials is one of the biggest factors affecting landscaping costs. Hardscaping materials, such as paving bricks, retaining walls, and decking, can vary greatly in price. Concrete paving is a more affordable option, while natural stone provides a premium finish but at a higher cost. Softscaping materials, like grass, plants, and soil amendments, tend to be less expensive but can add up for larger projects.
If you’re looking for long-term cost efficiency, consider native or drought-resistant plants. These may have a higher upfront cost but can save money on water and maintenance over time. Material selection is a balance between aesthetics, durability, and budget.
DIY vs. Professional Landscaping Costs
When deciding whether to take a DIY approach or hire professionals, it’s essential to consider the scope of your project. DIY landscaping works well for smaller tasks, such as planting shrubs, spreading mulch, or creating garden beds. It’s a cost-effective way to handle less complex projects but requires time and effort.
For larger or complex projects, hiring professionals is the best choice. Tasks such as installing irrigation systems, laying synthetic turf, or removing large trees need expertise. This ensures the work is done correctly and safely. While professional landscaping may involve higher upfront costs, it often saves money in the long run by avoiding mistakes and ensuring a polished result.
Ongoing Costs to Consider
Landscaping is not a one-off expense—it requires ongoing care to maintain its beauty and functionality. Lawn care costs, for example, include mowing, fertilising, pruning, and replacing seasonal plants. These recurring expenses are essential to keep your garden thriving year-round.
Water management is another important consideration. Installing irrigation systems or boreholes can reduce water bills and ensure efficient watering, especially during South Africa’s dry seasons. Over time, you may also need to account for repairs and upgrades to features like paving, decking, or outdoor lighting. These costs, while not immediate, are part of maintaining a vibrant and functional outdoor space.
Detailed Cost Breakdown: What You Can Expect
Grass and Lawn Costs
- Artificial grass installation (including labour): R300–R500 per square metre, depending on quality.
- Instant lawn (sod installation): R30–R80 per square metre, depending on grass type and labour.
Paving and Hardscaping Costs
- Paving bricks: R100–R300 per square metre for mid-range options.
- Cost of paving per square metre: R200–R400 for concrete; R600–R1,200 for natural stone.
- Driveway asphalt paving: R600–R1,000 per square metre, depending on thickness and preparatory work.
- Retaining wall construction: R1,500–R3,000 per metre, depending on materials and complexity.
Water Features and Irrigation
- Borehole drilling prices: R30,000–R100,000+ (R600–R1,200 per metre) depending on depth and soil conditions.Note: Borehole drilling carries the risk of not striking water, but you will still be responsible for the costs.
- Borehole pump price: R5,000–R20,000 for standard residential pumps.
- Rain harvesting system (including water tanks): R15,000–R30,000 for a basic system with a 2,500–5,000-litre tank.
- Sprinkler system installation cost: R10,000–R25,000 for a medium-sized residential garden.
Tree and Large Plant Costs
- Large tree removal cost: R3,000–R10,000 depending on size and location.
- Cost to cut down a large tree: Add R500–R1,500 for stump removal and clearing.
Ongoing Maintenance Costs
- Average lawn care cost per month: R300–R800 for regular maintenance of a medium-sized garden.
- Water usage costs: Boreholes can save on municipal water bills; irrigation systems increase efficiency.
Conclusion
Landscaping costs vary widely depending on the size and scope of your project. By understanding the costs involved and planning carefully, you can create a stunning outdoor space that fits your vision and your budget.
Questions and Answers
How much does landscaping cost in South Africa?
Landscaping costs in South Africa vary depending on the property’s size, the design’s complexity, and the materials used. Generally, basic garden designs can start at R20,000, while more intricate landscapes can exceed R100,000. Maintenance costs typically range from R300 to R800 per month for residential properties.
What is the cost of installing artificial grass in South Africa?
The cost of installing artificial grass in South Africa ranges from R300 to R500 per square metre, including labour. Factors like the quality of the turf, site preparation, and the area to be covered influence the price.
How much does it cost to pave a driveway in South Africa?
Driveway paving costs depend on the materials used:
- Concrete paving: R200–R400 per square metre.
- Natural stone: R600–R1,200 per square metre.
- Asphalt paving: R600–R1,000 per square metre. Additional costs may apply for site preparation or drainage solutions.
Is a borehole worth the investment in South Africa?
A borehole is a great way to reduce reliance on municipal water, especially in drought-prone areas. However, drilling costs range from R30,000 to over R100,000, and there is no guarantee of finding water. Maintenance and pump costs also need to be factored in.
What is the cost of rainwater harvesting systems in South Africa?
Rainwater harvesting systems, including a 2,500–5,000-litre tank and basic filtration, typically cost R15,000 to R30,000. Larger tanks or advanced filtration systems may increase costs.
How much does it cost to remove a tree in South Africa?
Tree removal costs depend on the size and accessibility of the tree. On average, the price ranges from R3,000 to R10,000. Stump removal may cost an additional R500 to R1,500.
How do I save on landscaping costs in South Africa?
To save on landscaping costs:
- Opt for native plants, which require less water and maintenance.
- Break your project into phases, tackling high-priority areas first.
- Consider DIY for smaller projects like planting or mulching.
- Get multiple quotes to ensure competitive pricing.
What is the cheapest way to grow grass in South Africa?
The most cost-effective option for growing grass is seeding, which typically costs R10–R20 per square metre. However, this requires patience and good soil preparation. Instant lawn (sod) is faster but costs R30–R80 per square metre.
How do I choose between artificial grass and instant lawn in South Africa?
Artificial grass is low-maintenance and durable, costing R300–R500 per square metre to install. Instant lawn (sod) is more affordable initially at R30–R80 per square metre but requires regular watering, mowing, and fertilising. Consider long-term maintenance costs when deciding.
How much water does a borehole save compared to municipal water?
The amount of water saved depends on usage. Boreholes eliminate monthly water bills and are ideal for irrigation-heavy gardens, but the upfront costs (R30,000–R100,000) require careful consideration. Pairing a borehole with a rainwater harvesting system can further reduce reliance on municipal water.
Can I landscape my garden on a small budget?
Yes, you can landscape on a budget by prioritising essential features, using cost-effective materials, and incorporating native plants. DIY tasks like planting and mulching can also reduce costs. Focus on phased installations to spread expenses over time.
