Ask the Experts

3 Landscaping Mistakes That Could Cost You Thousands

Your home’s landscape is more than just a beautiful outdoor space—it’s an investment in your property’s value. In high-end residential communities across Dallas, where curb appeal plays a major role in real estate prices, a well-designed landscape can make all the difference. But what happens when landscaping goes wrong?

Eliza Shorts, a Business Developer at Southern Botanical has seen firsthand how simple mistakes can lead to costly fixes. “Something as simple as forgetting to make seasonal adjustments to watering schedules can create avoidable problems,” she explains.

Landscaping in Dallas is challenging enough with the drastic variability between the seasons (and even within them) so hiring a local service, like Southern Botanical, can prove to be invaluable. To ensure your outdoor space enhances your property rather than diminishing its worth, here are three common landscaping mistakes to avoid.

1. Hiring the Wrong Landscape Designer

Your landscape is an extension of your home, and hiring the wrong designer can result in a mismatched, impractical, or even dysfunctional outdoor space. While budget landscapers may seem like a cost-effective option, they often cut corners—leading to poor plant selection, improper irrigation, and layouts that don’t maximize your space. This is a mistake we see all too often in Dallas residential neighborhoods.

Why This Mistake Costs You:

  • Expensive Rework: A poorly executed design might require you to redo walkways, hardscapes, or entire garden beds.
  • Drainage Issues: Inadequate planning can lead to flooding, soil erosion, and plant loss.
  • Lack of Cohesion: If your landscape doesn’t complement your home’s architecture, it can lower curb appeal and resale value.

How to Avoid It: Work with experienced landscape designers in Dallas who understand both aesthetics and functionality. Southern Botanical specializes in Dallas landscape design that aligns with your property’s unique needs, ensuring longevity and visual appeal. With a dedicated designer backed by a full support team, Southern Botanical will create a space tailored to your specific needs.

2. Prioritizing Aesthetics Over Functionality

A stunning garden means nothing if it isn’t practical. Many homeowners focus solely on beauty without considering how their outdoor space will be used. Your landscape should be an outdoor extension of your living space.

It is not uncommon for clients to request a specific plant for their yard without realizing it may not thrive in Dallas’ climate. For example, hydrangeas are beloved for their lush blooms, but they can struggle in Dallas without proper care. Due to the extreme summer heat and alkaline soil, their ability to absorb essential nutrients can be hindered.

Another common issue is improper plant placement. Homeowners may want to plant azaleas in areas with full-day sun exposure, unaware that these shrubs prefer morning sun and afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch. On the other hand, placing agave in a shaded, moist environment can cause root rot, as these desert plants thrive in full sun and well-draining soil.

We also see poor, non-functional design choices, such as installing a fire pit too close to a seating area without accounting for the prevailing wind direction, making it uncomfortable to use due to excessive smoke. Another example is narrow walkways lined with thorny plants like roses, which create an unwelcoming and impractical path for homeowners and guests.

Why This Mistake Costs You:

  • Underutilized Space: Without functional design, your landscape becomes just another feature rather than an extension of your living space.
  • High Maintenance Costs: Overgrown gardens, impractical plant choices, and lack of accessibility can drive up maintenance expenses.

How to Avoid It: When investing in Dallas landscape design in residential areas, ensure it’s tailored to your lifestyle. Think about how you’ll use the space—whether it’s for entertaining, relaxing, or family activities—and work with professionals to bring that vision to life.

3. Neglecting Ongoing Lawn & Landscape Maintenance

Even the best landscape design can fail if not properly maintained. Many homeowners invest in premium landscaping but underestimate the importance of regular Dallas lawn maintenance to keep their outdoor spaces looking pristine.

“I had the opportunity to meet with a potential client whose landscape was struggling due to various issues,” recalls Shorts. The company serving this client lacked the resources to help the struggling landscape. “The client had lost confidence in their previous landscaper.”

Shorts says that “Southern Botanical stepped in and began transforming the space with a tailored fertilization program, plant replacements, irrigation fixes, and enhanced maintenance. The results have been fantastic—the landscape is thriving and looks absolutely stunning. Even better– the client couldn’t be more thrilled with the outcome!”

Why This Mistake Costs You:

  • Declining Property Value: Overgrown grass, dying plants, and unkempt walkways can make your property look neglected.
  • Pest & Disease Issues: Without proper lawn care, your yard becomes susceptible to fungal diseases, weeds, and insect infestations.
  • Increased Costs Over Time: Neglecting small maintenance tasks can lead to bigger problems that require costly repairs.

How to Avoid It: Partner with a trusted Dallas lawn maintenance provider like Southern Botanical to keep your landscape in top shape year-round. Routine care—including trimming, fertilization, and irrigation management—ensures that your investment continues to thrive.

Protect Your Investment with Professional Landscape Design in Dallas

“A well-maintained, professionally designed landscape isn’t just about curb appeal—it’s about protecting your investment for years to come,” Shorts emphasizes. Your landscape should enhance your home’s beauty and functionality while increasing property value. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you thousands in repairs and missed opportunities.

If you’re ready to elevate your outdoor space, Southern Botanical’s expert team specializes in Dallas landscape design and residential landscape design in Dallas. Contact us today for a free consultation.