where can I find a garden designer?

[VannaB]

How do I go about finding a good garden designer? My garden is of average size, but I'm hopeless at gardening and want it looking nice. I'll be ok at maintaining it, but need someone to come up with a layout and plants that suit the light and soil etc.
Do they also then carry out the work or do I need to hire someon else? What kind of costs can they range from?
Thanks

[lafrancaise]

Look in your yellow pages for a Landscape gardener and get a few quotes. As you say you're not good at gardening don't be convinced into putting plants in that need a lot of work ie pruning. Many people get caught out and have to get them back in to tidy it up!! A good one will ask you what time you want to spend in the garden gardening, and if you sit out during the day or only in the evening etc

[VannaB]

I never thought of that. Thanks for the advice. :-)

[willow66]

Look in the yellow pages, but specifically at BALI registered companies. BALI stands for British Association for Landscaping Industries. Companies registered have a stringent code of practice that guarantees quality of work. These companies will primarily be landscapers but any good landscaping company will have a list of proven garden designers. Always have a full written specification with the quote issued and get at least 3 quotes.

[Gyvybe]

Not sure if you still need to find a landscape designer, but try using Bizwiki http://www.bizwiki.co.uk/landscaping.htm

[landscaper2]

Blimey Gyvybe, you've been trawling the archives! Didn't know about the 'bizwiki' site, so just had a look.....and there I am........free advertising!!