How much does shrub, bush, hedge, and flower planting cost?
How much does shrub, bush, hedge, and flower planting cost?
$25 – $85 per shrub
$10 – $30 per potted flower
$15 – $45 per square foot
Average shrub, bush, hedge, and flower planting cost
Hiring a landscaper to plant shrubs, bushes, hedges, or flowers costs $25 to $85 per shrub, $10 to $30 per potted flower, or $15 to $45 per square foot for flower bed planting. Most landscapers charge $50 to $100 per hour per worker, with total project costs depending on the number of plants, their size, and site conditions. These prices typically include both the plant material and installation labor.
| Project type | Average cost installed |
|---|---|
| Planting shrubs and bushes (each) | $25 – $85 |
| Planting hedges (per 5 linear feet) | $50 – $225 |
| Planting flowers (per pot) | $10 – $30 |
| Planting flowers (per square foot) | $15 – $45 |
| Installing a new raised flower bed (5' x 12') | $1,200 – $4,000 |
| Planting new grass seed (per square foot) | $0.25 – $0.70 |
| Installing sod (per square foot) | $1 – $2 |
| Planting a small to medium tree (up to 10' tall) | $125 – $700 |
| Planting a large tree (10' to 20'+ tall) | $400 – $1,300 |
Planting projects vary widely based on scope. A homeowner filling a single bare spot next to the front porch may spend under $100, while a full landscape renovation with dozens of shrubs, flower beds, and privacy hedges can cost several thousand dollars. Understanding the individual line items helps you budget accurately and compare quotes from landscapers.
Cost to plant shrubs and bushes
Landscapers charge $25 to $85 per shrub installed, including the plant and labor. The biggest price driver is the height of the shrub at the time of planting. A 1-foot nursery shrub is much cheaper than a 4-foot specimen that requires a larger hole and more handling. Buying shrubs in bulk often qualifies for per-unit discounts from both nurseries and installers.
| Shrub height | Average cost to plant (each) |
|---|---|
| 1 foot | $25 – $35 |
| 2 feet | $35 – $45 |
| 3 feet | $45 – $65 |
| 4 feet | $65 – $85 |
The plant material itself costs $5 to $35 per shrub, with the remaining cost covering digging, soil amendment, planting, watering, and cleanup. Common species like boxwood, holly, and barberry sit on the lower end, while specialty or slow-growing varieties like Japanese maple shrubs or large rhododendrons cost more.
Expect to pay less per plant when you order in quantity. Many landscapers offer 10% to 20% discounts on jobs involving 10 or more shrubs because the crew can work more efficiently in one continuous planting session rather than moving between scattered job sites.
Cost to plant flowers
Flower planting costs $10 to $30 per pot or $15 to $45 per square foot when a landscaper handles the work. The total expense depends on the bed size, whether you are planting into an existing bed or building a new one, and the type of flowers selected. Annuals are cheaper per plant but need replacing each season, while perennials cost more upfront and return year after year.
| Flower bed size | Average cost (plants + installation) |
|---|---|
| 2' x 4' | $120 – $350 |
| 2' x 8' | $250 – $700 |
| 3' x 6' | $270 – $800 |
| 3' x 10' | $450 – $1,300 |
| 4' x 4' | $250 – $700 |
| 4' x 8' | $500 – $1,400 |
| 5' x 10' | $750 – $2,200 |
| 5' x 12' | $900 – $2,700 |
| 8' x 8' | $950 – $2,900 |
| 8' x 10' | $1,200 – $3,600 |
| 8' x 12' | $1,400 – $4,300 |
| 8' x 16' | $1,900 – $5,700 |
These costs cover planting into an existing, prepared garden bed. If your project requires building a new raised bed with edging, imported soil, and landscape fabric, expect to pay $1,200 to $4,000 for a standard 5' x 12' bed before the plants go in.
Annuals vs. perennials
Annual flowers like petunias, marigolds, and impatiens cost $1 to $5 per plant and provide vibrant seasonal color. Perennials such as hostas, daylilies, and coneflowers cost $5 to $25 per plant but return each growing season, reducing long-term expenses.
| Flower type | Cost per plant | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Annuals (petunias, marigolds, impatiens) | $1 – $5 | One season |
| Perennials (hostas, daylilies, coneflowers) | $5 – $25 | Returns yearly |
A common strategy is to fill the foundation of a flower bed with perennials and accent with annuals for continuous color. This approach balances upfront planting cost with multi-year value.
Hedge planting cost
Hedge planting costs $10 to $45 per linear foot installed, including the plants and labor. A typical 50-foot hedge runs $500 to $2,250 total. Costs vary based on plant species, desired height at planting, and how closely the plants are spaced for density.
| Hedge length (linear feet) | Average cost installed |
|---|---|
| 5' | $50 – $225 |
| 10' | $100 – $450 |
| 25' | $250 – $1,125 |
| 50' | $500 – $2,250 |
| 100' | $1,000 – $4,500 |
| 250' | $2,500 – $11,250 |
Prices cover hedge plants ranging from 1 to 6 feet tall. Shorter, younger plants are less expensive but take several growing seasons to fill in and provide full privacy. Taller, more mature hedge plants deliver immediate screening but cost significantly more per linear foot.
Popular hedge species and spacing
Boxwood, privet, arborvitae, and holly are the most common hedge plants. Boxwood hedges work well for formal, low borders and typically need plants spaced 18 to 24 inches apart. Arborvitae, the fastest option for tall privacy screens, is usually spaced 3 to 5 feet apart depending on the variety.
Tighter spacing fills in faster but requires more plants per linear foot, raising the material cost. Wider spacing saves money upfront but may take 2 to 4 years to create a continuous, dense screen.
Once established, hedges need regular maintenance. Hedge trimming typically costs $185 to $450 per session and keeps your plants looking neat and healthy.
Cost to plant a tree
Tree planting costs $200 to $700 on average for a small to medium tree up to 10 feet tall. Large or mature trees between 10 and 20+ feet tall cost $400 to $1,300 installed. The total price includes the tree, delivery, digging, planting, staking, and initial watering.
| Tree size | Tree price only | Installation cost | Total cost to plant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sapling | $10 – $40 | $50 – $100 | $60 – $140 |
| Small tree (under 6') | $50 – $150 | $75 – $150 | $125 – $300 |
| Medium tree (6' to 10') | $100 – $400 | $100 – $300 | $200 – $700 |
| Large / mature tree (10' to 20'+) | $250 – $800 | $150 – $500 | $400 – $1,300 |
Planting multiple trees on the same visit reduces the per-tree installation cost because the crew and equipment are already on site. Soil quality, root ball size, and yard accessibility also influence the final price.
Landscaping installation cost factors
Several variables push planting costs higher or lower. Understanding these factors helps you anticipate your final bill and identify areas where you can save.
| Cost factor | Impact on price |
|---|---|
| Project size | Larger jobs cost more total but often less per plant |
| Plant selection | Rare or specialty plants increase material costs |
| Landscape design complexity | Sloped terrain or intricate layouts add labor time |
| Yard accessibility | Limited access or long carry distances raise labor costs |
| Soil preparation and grading | Clay soil or poor drainage may require amendment or grading |
| Removal of existing plants | Clearing old shrubs or stumps adds $50 to $200+ per plant |
| Season and demand | Spring and fall peak seasons may have higher labor rates |
Project size and quantity discounts
Large-scale planting jobs require more workers and materials, so the total cost rises. However, landscapers frequently discount per-unit pricing when you bundle many plants into one project. A single shrub install might cost $85, while each shrub in a 20-plant order might drop to $40 to $50.
Soil preparation
Heavy clay soil, compacted ground, or poor drainage can require significant preparation before planting. Soil amendments like compost, peat moss, or gypsum add $20 to $50 or more per cubic yard. If the area needs grading to correct drainage issues, expect additional costs for equipment and labor.
Yard accessibility
If landscapers can back a truck close to the planting site, labor stays efficient. Yards with narrow gates, steep slopes, long distances from the driveway, or obstacles like pools and decks require hand-carrying heavy root balls, which increases labor time and cost.
Existing plant removal
Removing old, overgrown, or dead shrubs before new planting adds to the budget. Small shrub removal costs $50 to $100 per plant, while large established bushes with deep root systems can cost $150 to $300+ to extract and haul away.
| Removal type | Average cost per plant |
|---|---|
| Small shrub removal | $50 – $100 |
| Large established bush removal | $150 – $300+ |
How to choose the right plants for your yard
Selecting plants that match your property's conditions prevents costly replacements and reduces long-term maintenance. Before shopping at the nursery or hiring a landscaper, evaluate these site-specific factors.
| Consideration | What to evaluate |
|---|---|
| Sun exposure | Full sun (6+ hours), part shade (3 to 6 hours), or full shade (under 3 hours) |
| Soil type | Clay, sandy, loamy; drainage speed; pH level |
| USDA hardiness zone | Confirm the plant is rated for your zone's winter temperatures |
| Mature size | Check the plant tag for full height and width at maturity |
| Purpose | Foundation planting, privacy screen, accent color, or erosion control |
Sun exposure
Sun exposure is the single most important factor. Walk your property at different times of day and note which areas receive full sun, partial shade, or deep shade. Most flowering shrubs need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight to bloom reliably. Shade-tolerant options exist, but the selection is smaller.
Soil type
Clay-heavy soil retains moisture and drains slowly, which suits certain plants but causes root rot in others. Sandy soil drains quickly but may not hold enough nutrients. A simple soil test from your local extension office (usually $10 to $30) reveals your soil's pH, nutrient content, and composition, guiding both plant selection and amendment needs.
Mature plant size
One of the most common planting mistakes is underestimating how large a shrub or bush will grow. That compact 2-gallon nursery shrub might reach 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide at maturity. Always check the plant tag for mature dimensions and compare them to your available space before purchasing.
Measure the distance from your home's foundation to walkways, windows, and other structures. Plant shrubs at least half their mature width away from walls and foundations to allow for air circulation and growth without overcrowding.
Best evergreen shrubs for year-round structure
Evergreen shrubs form the backbone of any landscape design. They retain their foliage through winter, provide structure when deciduous plants are dormant, and give your property a polished appearance in every season.
| Evergreen shrub | Mature size | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| Boxwood (Green Velvet) | 3 to 4 feet tall | Foundation planting, formal borders |
| Boxwood (Winter Gem) | 4 to 6 feet tall | Hedges, mixed borders |
| Arborvitae (Emerald Green) | 12 to 15 feet tall, 3 to 4 feet wide | Privacy screens in smaller spaces |
| Arborvitae (Green Giant) | 40 to 60 feet tall | Fast-growing privacy screens |
| Holly (Inkberry) | 5 to 8 feet tall | Foundation planting, wet soil areas |
Boxwood
Boxwood is the most versatile foundation shrub for residential landscapes. It stays dense and compact with minimal pruning, tolerates both sun and partial shade, and its fine-textured foliage complements nearly any architectural style. Modern cultivars like Green Velvet, Winter Gem, and Sprinter offer improved resistance to boxwood blight.
Boxwood prefers well-drained soil. In clay-heavy yards, plant it slightly elevated or in amended beds. Deep watering during the first two summers helps establish strong root systems.
Arborvitae
For tall privacy hedges, arborvitae remains the go-to choice. Green Giant arborvitae grows 3 to 5 feet per year and matures at 40 to 60 feet, offering the fastest route to blocking an unwanted view. Emerald Green arborvitae is better for tighter spaces, topping out at 12 to 15 feet with a narrow 3- to 4-foot spread.
Plant arborvitae in full sun with good air circulation. The biggest threat in many regions is bagworms; inspect annually in late May and remove egg cases before they hatch.
Best flowering shrubs for seasonal color
Flowering shrubs deliver visual impact and seasonal interest that complement the structure of evergreens. These popular varieties perform well across a wide range of climates and soil conditions.
| Flowering shrub | Bloom season | Mature size | Sun needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oakleaf hydrangea | Early summer | 4 to 6 feet tall and wide | Part shade to full shade |
| Knockout rose | Late spring through first frost | 3 to 4 feet tall | Full sun |
| Forsythia | Early spring | 8 to 10 feet tall | Full sun |
| Azalea | Spring | 3 to 8 feet (varies by variety) | Part shade |
| Lilac | Mid to late spring | 8 to 15 feet tall | Full sun |
Oakleaf hydrangea
Oakleaf hydrangea is a multi-season workhorse. Large cone-shaped white blooms appear in early summer and gradually shift to pink and burgundy. The distinctive oak-shaped leaves turn deep red in fall, and peeling cinnamon-colored bark adds winter interest. This is one of the few flowering shrubs that thrives in partial shade, making it ideal for north-facing walls or under tall tree canopies.
Knockout rose
Knockout roses bloom continuously from late spring through the first hard frost, delivering months of color with minimal maintenance. They resist common rose diseases like black spot and powdery mildew, making them a practical alternative to traditional hybrid tea roses. Plant them in full sun with good air circulation for the best performance.
DIY planting vs. hiring a landscaper
Planting shrubs and flowers yourself can save 40% to 60% on labor costs, but professional installation offers advantages that are worth weighing before you grab a shovel.
| Factor | DIY planting | Professional installation |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Plant material only ($5 – $35 per shrub) | Plant + labor ($25 – $85 per shrub) |
| Time | Several hours to a full weekend for large projects | Completed in hours by a crew |
| Expertise | Risk of planting too deep, poor spacing, or wrong species | Professional plant selection and proper technique |
| Warranty | Nursery warranty on plants only (if applicable) | Many landscapers offer a 1-year plant guarantee |
| Equipment | Shovel, wheelbarrow, garden hose | Professional-grade tools, augers, soil amendments |
DIY works well for small projects like planting a few potted flowers or adding one or two shrubs to an existing bed. For larger jobs involving 10+ plants, soil preparation, bed construction, or species selection on challenging sites, a professional landscaper saves time and reduces the risk of plant loss.
One of the most common DIY mistakes is planting shrubs too deep. The root flare (where the trunk widens at the base) should sit at or just above the soil surface. Burying it can suffocate roots and lead to plant decline within the first few years.
Tips for hiring a landscaper
Get at least three written estimates that itemize plant costs separately from labor. Ask each landscaper whether their quote includes soil amendment, mulch, and a plant warranty. Many reputable companies guarantee their plants for one year, replacing any that die from causes other than neglect.
Verify that the landscaper is licensed and insured. Check recent reviews and request photos of completed planting projects similar to yours. Seasonal timing also matters: scheduling planting during early spring or fall, when demand is moderate, may yield better pricing and availability.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to plant shrubs and bushes?
Early fall is the ideal planting time for most shrubs and bushes. Cooler temperatures reduce transplant stress while still-warm soil encourages root growth before winter dormancy. Early spring (after the last frost) is the second-best window. Avoid planting during the peak heat of summer, when plants struggle to establish roots.
How many shrubs do I need per linear foot?
Spacing depends on the species and desired density. As a general guide, plant small shrubs 2 to 3 feet apart, medium shrubs 3 to 5 feet apart, and large shrubs 5 to 8 feet apart. For a dense privacy hedge, use the tighter end of each range. Your landscaper or the plant tag will specify the recommended spacing for each variety.
How can I save money on planting?
Buy smaller plants. A 1-foot shrub costs $25 to $35 installed, while a 4-foot specimen costs $65 to $85. Smaller plants establish root systems faster and often catch up in size within a few growing seasons. Additional ways to save include purchasing plants in bulk, planting during off-peak seasons, and handling simple bed preparation yourself before the crew arrives.
How much do landscapers charge per hour?
Most landscapers charge $50 to $100 per hour per worker for planting and installation. Complex projects that require specialized equipment, significant soil work, or large tree handling may cost more. Hourly rates vary by region, with higher costs in metropolitan areas and lower rates in rural communities.
Should I add mulch after planting?
Yes. A 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around new plantings conserves moisture, regulates soil temperature, suppresses weeds, and improves soil health as it decomposes. Keep mulch a few inches away from plant stems and trunks to prevent moisture buildup and rot. Budget an additional $30 to $100 per cubic yard for quality hardwood or bark mulch, depending on the material and delivery costs.