What
to look for when comparing landscaping bids….
At least 20% of the landscaping cost should
go towards items
that are frequently left out in “low ball” bids |
| |
Question to
ask….. |
Average %
of Bid |
Topsoil
|
How much topsoil is used? What type?
Source? |
5% |
| |
The primary cause of most plant problems is inadequate soil preparation.
Unfortunately, this is also the easiest item for a landscaper to
manipulate when reducing costs to win a bid. Experience has shown
that 3 to 4 inches of an amended topsoil made up of 80% topsoil
and 20 % compost works best. Sod laid over a layer of cow manure
is not adequate for a healthy lawn. Roots won't penetrate the existing
clay and stress will show up after the first few seasons. Enough
amended topsoil needs to be added so that the center of the lawn
is slightly raised. Otherwise, drainage will be poor as the lawn
settles in the following seasons. Green Acres use a rich, loamy
“amended topsoil” consisting of 80% topsoil and 20%
BioComp® compost.. BioComp® utilizes a combination of
several feedstocks, including brewing products from Coor’s
Brewery. And meets EPA 40 CFR 503-13 requirements for unrestricted
use and distribution. We first rototill 2” of compost into
the existing soil, and then add at least 4” of amended topsoil
on top. This produces about 8” of amended topsoil with great
transition to the existing soil (preventing water perch). |
|
Sprinkler |
Is the system designed for “head
to head” coverage? What determined the number of heads per
zone? What materials are being used? Will it require winter blow-out? |
10% |
| |
This is not the place to cut costs. The design, quality of materials
and installation skills need to be the highest quality possible
and right the first time. Next to poor soil preparation, the effectiveness
of your irrigation system is the biggest factor determining the
success of your landscape. Green Acres always design for head-to-head
coverage. Trying to use fewer heads will result in dry areas.
We determine the number of heads per zone by calculating flow
requirements (gallons/minute) per head and the available water
flow at the connection to the house plumbing. This is the only
way to assure optimal sprinkler operation. Top grade Hunter valves
are used along with user-friendly clocks. Our systems do not require
Winter blowout when correctly turned off in the Fall. |
|
Planting |
Are Colorado State University extension
and Denver Botanical Garden planting guidelines being followed?
Are planters professionally trained? |
5% |
| |
In Colorado, anyone with a pickup truck and a wheelbarrow can
call themselves a professional landscaper, regardless of training
and experience.
However, Front Range climate and soil conditions require careful
plant selection and planting methodology for your landscape to thrive
season after season.
Green Acres always follows CSU guidelines. Several of our staff
have
Colorado Master Gardener Certification and receive ongoing training
from Denver Botanical Gardens as well as CSU in Fort Collins.
We also have staff receiving their horticultural certification
from Denver Botanic Gardens.
Green Acres belongs to several professional organizations that
provide training opportunities for all of our staff, particularly
in the areas of horticulture, irrigation technology and general
landscaping practice. |
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