So you've taken inventory of your property and maybe it has seen better days and needs a little help. Maybe you are debating hoping in the pickup truck and heading down to the big box store, picking up some plants on sale, and doing it yourself. Before you grab those keys and put the shovel in the ground I invite you review these four reasons to hire a landscape professional:

1.    Landscape is what they love - Who better to give advice of what tree to accent your home or how to layout the patio and landscape for your lifestyle than someone who loves doing it? When you have someone that is passionate about plants and helping people find tremendous enjoyment from being outside the possibilities are endless.

2.    Landscaping is what they know - Have you ever tried to ask the clerk at the big box store if that Hosta will grow in full sun and get an answer without them looking at the tag? Chances are slim. Most landscape designers have actually earned a bachelor's degree in horticulture and know plants like the back of their hand. So why would you gamble on the plant tags and possibly lose your investment? And if you're wondering, that Hosta probably won't do well in the full sun.

3.    They've seen it all - Well maybe not it all but we have seen a lot and your situation may not be as unique or difficult as you think. The designers see multiple properties a day and help hundreds of homeowners just like you, and probably even your neighbor, solve theirs landscape issues with as little drama as possible.

4.    They do all the hard work - Let's face it, landscape work is hard! The ground almost seems likes it pushes back when you try to dig a hole. Why not let a group of professionals come through and tackle that multiple weekend project in just a couple of days. You can save the ibuprofen and massage for another time. Better yet, get the massage anyways!