What spaces do you generally design?
We pride ourselves in being adaptable to different sized projects. From an in-town residential front yard or a simple, single garden bed to an entire property landscape, we are able to construct beautiful, healthy, ecologically friendly spaces regardless of the size of the project. At your request, there are many landscape & garden facets we can incorporate into an area. For instance, we are happy to create edible landscapes in planted containers for use on patios and balconies as well as incorporating edible components into an existing garden bed.
How long would a design project take?
Depending on the size of the project it can take 2 weeks to 6 months to complete a project from inception to completion. A design commonly requires 2-4 weeks to complete.
*Weather is always a factor particularly in the spring, leaving late or with the onset of an early winter. Half loads on cottage roads are also a hindrance in spring.
Do you only use native species when designing and planting?
No. My vision for incorporating native plants is part of an overall plan which enriches the existing ecosystem. By choosing appropriate native plants in particular areas of your landscape, it encourages and attracts native pollinators and beneficial predatory pests to your area, create habitats and food sources for birds. Native species are less likely to be eaten by herbivores and cost significantly less than cultivated stock. We do not use invasive or marginal-invasive species plants.
I always use native species plantings specifically in naturally sensitive areas; near shorelines, natural watercourses and forested areas. Native species are not detrimental to the natural balance of the surrounding ecosystem and therefore will not become an invasive issue and will not be required to be removed in years to come at significant expense to the client and the environment.
Native plants that are used in landscaping still have the visual beauty as cultivated stock. They are becoming increasingly more common place in landscape design that has sustainability in mind. Native plants are adapted to our growing zone and harsh conditions. Growers are expanding their operations to include many varieties of native plants. Hardcastle Horticulture also grows locally sourced native plants in Port Carling.
Is there a charge for your consultation services?
Yes. A non-refundable fee of $150.00 applies to a consultation. This fee is for an initial site visit, follow up communication and rough sketches provided in relation to that visit.
An hourly rate applies to any other advise provided through sketches, drawings or email communications and any related or unrelated topics or any additional site specifications.
I always complete a site visit before specifying any details. However by request I may occasionally provide rough sketches, plant specifications and material sourcing for gardens & containers without travelling to a site in specific cases. An hourly rate still applies to this service. Please contact me with inquiries.