When Is the Right Time to Book a Landscaper for a Backyard Makeover?

When the weather starts warming up and the days get longer, it’s natural to start thinking about how you can make the most of your outdoor space. Maybe you’ve been dreaming of a lush lawn, a new deck for weekend barbies, or a garden that’s finally easy to maintain. Whatever your vision, there’s one thing that can make or break your project — timing.

So, when exactly is the right time to book a landscaper for a backyard makeover? The short answer: before everyone else does. The long answer? Let’s dig in.

1. Start Planning Before the Peak Season

Landscaping in Australia follows the rhythm of the seasons — and so do the tradies. Come spring and early summer, everyone seems to have the same idea: “Let’s fix up the yard!”

That surge in demand can mean longer wait times and higher prices. Landscapers get booked out quickly as homeowners rush to get their gardens and outdoor spaces ready for entertaining.

The sweet spot to book a landscaper is late winter or very early spring, before the rush hits. This gives you time to:

• Discuss ideas and get quotes without feeling rushed.

• Lock in your preferred tradie before their schedule fills up.

• Take advantage of cooler weather for planting and prep work.

If you start in July or August, your landscaper can get everything underway so that by the time October rolls around, your backyard is ready to shine.

2. Think Seasonally About Your Project Goals

Not all landscaping jobs are created equal — and some seasons are better suited for specific types of work. Here’s a quick guide:

Winter (June – August): The Planning and Prep Season

Winter’s chill makes it a great time for planning, design, and structural work. Landscapers can help you design layouts, organise council approvals, or start hardscaping (like decks, retaining walls, and paving).

If your project involves planting, winter is ideal for many native plants and trees to establish roots before the hot months arrive.

Spring (September – November): The Makeover Season

Spring is when everything comes to life — including your landscaping ideas. It’s the most popular time for backyard makeovers because conditions are perfect for planting and turfing.

Tradies are busiest in spring, so booking early (by late winter) is essential if you want your project done in time for summer.

Summer (December – February): The Enjoyment Season

Once the work is done, it’s time to sit back and enjoy it — or if you’re still building, focus on maintenance and finishing touches. Just keep in mind that major landscaping work in the peak of summer can be tough due to heat, so most pros prefer to wrap up the heavy stuff before Christmas.

Autumn (March – May): The Refresh and Replant Season

Autumn is a fantastic time for lawn restoration, planting cool-season veggies, or refreshing flower beds. It’s also less busy, which can mean more availability and sometimes better pricing.

3. Why Booking Early Pays Off

Booking a landscaper early doesn’t just save you stress — it can actually save you money and ensure a better result. Here’s why:

• You avoid the seasonal price surge. When demand spikes, so can labour and material costs. Early bookings often mean more flexible pricing.

• You have time to compare quotes properly. Rushing into a decision can lead to overpaying or picking someone who isn’t the best fit for your project.

• You can plan around your budget. Starting early gives you time to break your project into stages — perfect if you want to spread out costs or do some DIY parts yourself.

• Your landscaper can schedule you strategically. Tradies love clients who plan ahead — it allows them to manage materials, hire extra help, and give your project the attention it deserves.

Think of it like booking your holiday accommodation — the earlier you secure it, the better the options and prices you’ll get.

4. Signs It’s Time for a Backyard Makeover

Sometimes it’s not just about the season — it’s about recognising when your yard needs a bit of love.

Here are a few telltale signs:

• Your lawn’s seen better days. Bald patches, weeds, and poor drainage are signs it might be time for new turf or soil work.

• You’ve outgrown your space. Maybe the kids need more room to play, or you want to add a pergola or fire pit area for entertaining.

• The garden’s too high-maintenance. If keeping up with weeds and watering is eating into your weekends, a landscaper can redesign your space for easier upkeep.

• You’re getting ready to sell. A tidy, functional outdoor area can seriously boost curb appeal and property value.

No matter the reason, getting a professional’s input can transform your space from “meh” to “magnificent.”

5. How to Find the Right Landscaper

With so many landscapers out there, how do you choose the right one? It comes down to trust, experience, and transparency.

When comparing tradies, look for:

• Verified reviews and photos of past work.

• Clear, detailed quotes (not just rough estimates).

• Good communication. You want someone who listens to your ideas and keeps you updated.

• Proper licences and insurance. Always a must.

That’s where ServiceSeeking.com.au comes in handy. You can post your landscaping job for free and get multiple quotes from qualified, reviewed landscapers in your area — all in one place. You can also compare prices, read reviews, and pick the tradie who fits your vision and budget.

6. Pro Tip: Plan for the Whole Year

The best backyards aren’t built overnight — they evolve. A good landscaper can help you plan for the year ahead:

• Stage 1 (Winter): Planning, design, and hardscaping.

• Stage 2 (Spring): Planting, turfing, and finishing touches.

• Stage 3 (Summer): Maintenance, irrigation, and outdoor décor.

• Stage 4 (Autumn): Refreshing and replanting before winter.

This phased approach means you’ll never feel overwhelmed or blow your budget. Plus, your outdoor space will look great all year round.

7. Ready to Get Started?

If you’ve been dreaming about transforming your backyard into a space you’ll actually use — whether it’s for entertaining, relaxing, or just showing off a bit — now’s the time to make it happen.

Don’t wait until the tradies are fully booked and materials are harder to source. Start planning now, get a few quotes, and lock in the right professional before the spring-summer rush.

Head over to ServiceSeeking.com.au today, post your landscaping job for free, and get matched with local landscapers who can bring your backyard vision to life.

Because the best time to start your backyard makeover? Right before everyone else does.