Question 1

Should there be standing water in that hole after the landscaper left?

Accepted Answer

No—persistent standing water signals a problem. In Utah’s clay-heavy soils, planting pits and post holes can act like buckets if they’re not prepared correctly. For a tree or shrub, the root ball should rest on firm subgrade, surrounded by amended backfill that drains well. The area should slope slightly to shed water away from your [&hellip;]

Question 2

Is it okay that the landscaper changed something from the plans?

Accepted Answer

A contractor should only change the design if you’ve approved it in writing. There are valid reasons to adjust in the field—unexpected drainage issues, unmarked utilities, or clearance requirements—but those changes require documentation. A proper process includes a clear explanation, a quick sketch showing the change, and a signed change order that covers cost and [&hellip;]

Question 3

Why does my finished landscaping look smaller or larger than the plan?

Accepted Answer

It’s common for finished landscapes to feel different from the plan. A design drawing is scaled, but human perception changes once you’re standing in the actual space. Early installations often look smaller because plants are young; shrubs and perennials usually take one to two growing seasons to fill in, while trees may take five years [&hellip;]

Question 4

Is this normal for a landscape company, or should I be worried?

Accepted Answer

When you’re unsure about whether your contractor’s behavior is standard or a red flag, focus on three checks. First, communication: a reliable landscape company documents schedule changes, explains delays, and provides written decisions instead of leaving you guessing. Second, scope control: invoices, materials on site, and visible work should match what’s in the signed contract [&hellip;]

Question 5

What if a landscape contractor hits a gas line or fiber-optic cable?

Accepted Answer

Utility locating is mandatory. The contractor should call 811 before digging and wait for markings. If a line is struck, work must stop. For gas: evacuate the area, avoid sparks, and call the gas utility and 911. For fiber or other communications: contact the utility immediately for repair. Incidents are rare if locates and hand-digging [&hellip;]

Frequently Asked Questions

Should there be standing water in that hole after the landscaper left?

Is it okay that the landscaper changed something from the plans?

Why does my finished landscaping look smaller or larger than the plan?

Is this normal for a landscape company, or should I be worried?

What if a landscape contractor hits a gas line or fiber-optic cable?

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