1. What is native plant landscape design, and why do you focus on it?

Native plant landscape design uses plants that evolved in our region, so they’re better adapted to our soils, weather, and local wildlife. In the Philadelphia area, that means gardens that handle our hot summers, messy freeze–thaw cycles, and heavy rain while supporting birds, pollinators, and other beneficial insects. I design with natives because they create beautiful, resilient spaces that feel grounded in place rather than generic.

2. What areas do you serve?

I primarily work in the greater Philadelphia region and nearby parts of New Jersey. On the Pennsylvania side, that includes Montgomery and Bucks Counties. For larger design projects, I can travel farther into the region, including select locations in New Jersey. If you’re not sure whether you’re in my service area, just reach out through the contact form and share your address.

3. Do you offer design only, or design and installation?

My core service is landscape design: site analysis, concepts, planting plans, and clear guidance on how to build the project. From there, you have options. Some clients hire their own contractor and use my plans as the roadmap; others bring me in to collaborate closely with an installer or nursery. I can also provide project oversight and maintenance guidance so the design is installed and cared for as intended.

4. How does the design process work from first contact to finished plan?

Typically, we start with a short call and a site visit to understand your goals, budget, and existing conditions. I then develop one or more concept plans that show layout, planting zones, and key features. After your feedback, I refine this into a detailed planting plan with plant lists and notes you (or a contractor) can build from. Many clients then keep me on for plant sourcing help, site visits during installation, and seasonal check-ins.

5. Do you work on small front yards or just large properties?

Both. Some of my favorite projects are compact front yards and entry gardens where a few strong moves make a big impact. I also design for larger lots, wooded edges, and properties with creeks or natural areas. The important piece is fit: if I think your project is better served by a different type of firm (for example, pure maintenance mowing), I’ll tell you that honestly.

6. Can you design for deer pressure, shade, or difficult sites?

Yes. Many local gardens struggle with deer, deep shade, wet spots, slopes, and tree roots. I choose plant communities—and sometimes physical protection strategies—that have a better chance of succeeding under those conditions. While no plant is truly “deer-proof,” we can heavily favor tougher species, place vulnerable plants closer to the house, and design with browsing in mind.

7. Do you offer ongoing maintenance or garden coaching?

I don’t run a weekly mowing crew, but I do offer maintenance consulting and garden coaching. That might look like seasonal walk-throughs, punch-lists for your maintenance team, or one-on-one education so you feel confident caring for a more complex planting. Getting the right care in the first few years is key to long-term success.

8. Can you work with my existing plants, trees, and hardscape?

Absolutely. Many of the best designs start by respecting what’s already working—mature trees, good bones, or favorite plants—and then editing what isn’t. I can identify which elements to keep, which to relocate, and which to remove so the new design feels cohesive rather than starting from scratch.

9. Do you design rain gardens or creek-side plantings?

I regularly work on drainage-sensitive and creek-adjacent sites, including slopes, swales, and areas that see heavy runoff. The goal is to slow, spread, and soak water where appropriate, using deep-rooted native plants to stabilize soil and filter stormwater. If your property backs onto a creek or has recurring wet areas, we can explore rain gardens, vegetated buffers, and planting strategies that respect both ecology and any local regulations.

10. How long does a typical project take?

For most residential projects, the design phase takes a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on complexity and how many rounds of revisions you’d like. The installation timeline depends on your contractor’s schedule, plant availability, and the seasons—we often phase larger projects over multiple seasons or years. I’ll help you think through an achievable timeline so the work feels manageable.