Batten's Plantscapes FAQ

Where are you located? And whom do you service?
Batten's Plantscapes is based in Stow, Massachusetts, and service all of New England. Our clients are primarily
residential, but also includes estates and commercial properties.

Is there any charge for the first visit with a landscape designer?
Yes. There is value to landscaping advice and opinions. My consultation rate is $50 an hour, with a one-hour
minimum fee. This fee, paid to the designer upon completion of the visit, covers the cost of our drive time to your
property and the time spent meeting with you. The entire consultation fee is redeemable if you opt to utilize our
designs services.

What is the on-site consultation?
The on-site consultation between a landscape designer and homeowner serves as the foundation for developing a
landscape plan that meets the needs of the client. Through the on-site consultation process I will learn of your
landscape goals including any tree, shrub and perennial preferences as well as favorite color combinations and
the budget. I will also answer any questions the client may have concerning landscaping and business practices.
Finally, if you decide to proceed with a landscape design and project bid, I will measure and photograph the
property and begin the landscape design and cost estimate.

What information should I provide at the consultation?
The client should be prepared to provide a general idea of what they want to accomplish with landscaping and a
list of any specific trees, shrub or perennials that they would like to be included in the landscape design.
Additionally, a copy of the client's lot plan or property survey will be helpful and will reduce the cost of the
landscape design.

Are there any limitations on the plant guarantee?
Yes. Batten's Plantscapes will replace any plant that does not survive the one-year period one time. However, the
one-year guarantee does not cover care neglect (including, but not limited to, under watering, over watering or
mechanical damage) or damage caused by abnormal weather conditions, chemicals, animals, fire, flood,
tornado, vandalism, theft or other factors beyond our control. The plant guarantee is also voided if the plants are
moved from their original placement.

Why maintain your landscape organically?
It saves money, protects the environment and creates a landscape you and your family can safely enjoy. Organic
methods create an environmentally balanced landscape, greatly reducing pest problems. Naturally managed
landscapes are also more drought tolerant.

Are pesticides necessary to maintain a healthy landscape?
No! A properly managed, totally organic landscape system typically does not require the use of pesticides.
Increasing numbers of university studies are confirming that a properly designed organic management program
can prevent many diseases. Healthy plants living in a soil with an abundance of beneficial organisms are better
able to resist insect pests.

When is the best time to plant?
Traditionally fall is the best time to plant. The season is cooling and existing planted vegetation is more forgiving
of rigors of transplant shock. Winter can be a good time to plant as plants are fully dormant and are again,
resistant to transplant shock. Spring offers the best availability of plants and "feels" like the right season to plant.
Summer is not always the best time to plant although by taking the appropriate precautions, summer planting
can be a breeze.

Frequently Asked Questions

BATTEN'S

PLANTSCAPES

The Gardener's Gardener

What is the benefit of professionally landscaping my home?
Not only will you increase the enjoyment of your property, you will increase the value of your home!

Add 15% To Your Home’s Value - Read 'Fertile Ground' from the March 2003
issue of Smart Money.

Money Magazine Article Read 'How Does Your Garden Grow?' from the May
2003 issue of Money Magazine.

Want to get a big return on your home-improvement investment - Read 'Lawn
and Garden Equity' by Jay MacDonald at Bankrate.com.