FAQs

1. What is your background and experience?

I started off as a visual artist and graphic designer and pivoted careers over five years ago by working in the Horticulture industry, mostly working in commercial nurseries in Southern California. I received my training in Sustainable Landscape Design from Saddleback Community College.

In addition, I’ve completed professional certifications from ReScape, the Theodore Payne Foundation, and have a QWEL (Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper) qualification from the California Landscaping Contractors Association.

2. What are your rates?

  • 1 Hour on-site consultations are currently free.

  • Site assessments* start at $250 for small areas under 1000SQFT, and increase depending on size.

  • Tailored plant lists and base maps of your property are $250. Here is an example of one of my plant lists.

  • Costs for design proposals (drawings, renderings, moodboard) vary with project size.

3. I’ve read native plants die out in the heat of the summer, is this true?

Firstly, it's essential to debunk the myth that all native plants look 'dead' or 'dried out' during the summer. In reality, a well-planned native garden can remain vibrant and colorful throughout the year. Many California natives are adapted to our climate's ebbs and flows, showing resilience in dry conditions and blooming beautifully when others might struggle.

To ensure your garden looks lively even during the hotter months, we’ll work together in choosing and incorporating a mix of plants that have different bloom times, including those that peak in summer. We can use plants with varying textures and foliage colors to create visual interest year-round. If needed, a minimal amount of supplemental summer watering can keep them looking their best without significantly increasing water usage.

While my design approach centers around using native plants, I also appreciate the beauty and benefits of non-native plants and include them as options for clients. The important thing is to prioritize selecting plants that are adapted to our area and can thrive with little to no irrigation after their establishment. Incorporating a mix of native and non-native plants can help create a diverse and attractive garden while still supporting local ecology and reducing water usage.

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Site assessments are required to create a base map (your exterior and its outer limits measured and mapped) and plant lists that are catered to the measurements and conditions of your site. Site surveys are typically 4-6 hours depending on your property size and conditions.

There is a $50 fee for one-time plant check up post-installation. Should you need reoccurring garden maintenance visits, I charge $45 bi-weekly and $60 monthly. 

If there’s something else on your mind that you would like to go over before you decide to begin on your landscape project, please drop me a line at lorena@redwoodandpine.co