What a landscape design plan should include

Start with your goals (and your site constraints)

Before drawings, a solid plan starts with a short set of goals. Think about how you want to use the yard: relaxing, play, cooking outdoors, privacy, low maintenance, or better curb appeal.

Next comes the “site reality check.” Your yard’s sun, shade, slope, soil type, tree roots, existing irrigation (if you have it), and local rules affect what’s practical. A good pro will ask about how you live, what you like, and what you want to change.

If you’re not sure what to ask, start with this simple question: “What in my yard limits options, and how do you plan around it?”

What’s in the written landscape design plan

A landscape design plan should be more than a sketch. It should include a clear description of the design intent and what will be built in plain language, so you understand the “why,” not just the “what.”

Look for sections that cover:

• Overview of the design concept (the big picture)
• A breakdown of planned areas (front yard, side yard, backyard)
• Materials and plant selections (general categories and specific examples)

A helpful plan also lists assumptions. For example, it may note that certain areas need utility verification before digging, or that final plant choices depend on availability in your region.

Maps and drawings you should expect to see

Most strong plans include multiple views. The goal is to make it easy to price, bid, and build without confusion.

Common plan items include:

1) Site plan (top-down map). This shows property boundaries, existing features (like trees and patios), and where new elements go.

2) Layout drawings. These show the rough placement of hardscape (walkways, patios, retaining walls if applicable), softscape (plants and ground covers), and any water features.

3) Elevation or section views (when needed). These help explain how sloped areas or changes in grade (grading: shaping the land) will look.

Tip: Ask your pro to point out each item on the drawing and explain how it matches your goals.

Hardscape vs. softscape (and why that matters for the plan)

Hardscape and softscape are two common categories in landscape design.

• Hardscape is the “non-plant” part—things like patios, paths, edging, retaining walls, outdoor steps, and lighting.
• Softscape is the “living” part—trees, shrubs, flowers, ground covers, and turf.

A good plan clearly separates them. That makes it easier to confirm scope, compare options, and avoid surprises. For example, you may want a patio upgrade (hardscape) first, then add plantings later (softscape).

If lighting is included, look for what type of lights, where they go, and how they’ll be controlled. If irrigation is discussed, make sure you understand what “drip irrigation” (slow water delivered at/near plant roots) means for the design.

Plant details, maintenance, and realistic expectations

Planting plans should list plant types and sizes, not just “flowers here” ideas. Look for how plants will be arranged to create the look you want over time.

Many homeowners also want a maintenance plan. A strong design package may include:

• Approximate plant spacing and grouping (so plants grow without crowding)
• Seasonal interest (what looks good in different months)
• Care notes (like pruning expectations and watering guidance)

Important: No one can guarantee a plant will thrive in every yard. Climate, soil, sun exposure, watering practices, and pests affect results. A good pro will explain what can be controlled and what you’ll need to do after installation.

Cost notes and what to confirm before work starts

Plans often include cost guidance. Some pros offer a ballpark range or option tiers. Still, you should be careful with “nice-sounding numbers.” Costs vary by yard size, access, material choices, labor availability, season, and local pricing.

Instead of chasing a promise, focus on clarity. Ask for:

• A scope summary (what’s included and what’s excluded)
• A materials list (what brand/type ranges, if applicable)
• Any site work notes that affect cost (for example, removals, hauling, or changes near existing structures)

Before anything begins, confirm these basics yourself:

• Verify the pro’s license and insurance
• Check local permits and any utility-locates if digging is planned
• Confirm the final design, scope, and price IN WRITING

If you want help planning your questions, explore cost planning and see how to organize the details for quotes.

How to use Verdorra to find a landscape design-build pro

Verdorra is a free matching/guide service. We help homeowners find and connect with landscape design-build pros who can create a plan based on your goals and your yard conditions.

To get the best match, gather a few details before you reach out: your property location (city/state), what you want to improve, any must-keep plants, and photos of front, back, and side views.

If you’re starting from scratch, begin with get matched and browse our guides for planning help. You can also learn more about what these pros do in services.