Cooped up inside during Calgary’s frosty winter and dreaming of a lush garden or new patio? Good news – winter is actually the perfect time to plan your spring landscaping project. By using Calgary’s off-season to map out and budget your ideas now, you’ll be ready to dig in as soon as the ground thaws. Instead of scrambling in spring, you can have a solid plan — even permits and contractors lined up — so your dream yard becomes reality as soon as the snow melts.
Why Plan Your Spring Project in Winter?
Winter planning gives you a head start on your spring landscaping project. While others wait until April to start thinking about their yards, you’ll already have designs drawn up, permits submitted, and even a spot reserved with a contractor. In short, you’ll have everything sorted out early.
Another big reason to plan now is to beat the spring rush. Once the warm weather hits, Calgary landscapers get booked up fast. If you wait until the snow melts, you’ll be competing with everyone else for service. By starting in winter, you ensure you’re at the front of the line. Companies also have more availability (and sometimes off-season discounts) in the winter, so you can lock in your project dates instead of scrambling for help in May.
Envision Your Spring Landscape Now
With your yard buried under snow, think of it as a blank canvas. Without all the leaves and flowers in the way, it’s easier to see the basic shape of your yard and identify areas that need work. Use this time to imagine changes — maybe you want a new patio or a bigger garden bed once spring comes.
Winter also gives you the freedom to brainstorm. Browse gardening magazines or online for inspiration. You might even sketch a simple layout of your yard, marking which spots get the most sun, which stay shady, and where water tends to pool. By planning these details now, you’ll ensure your spring project fits your space and Calgary’s climate just right.
Plan Your Budget During Winter
Take advantage of winter downtime to sort out your landscaping budget. Because you’re not rushing, you can gather multiple quotes and compare material costs calmly. You might even snag off-season deals or early booking discounts that save you money. Also, remember some materials or plants need to be ordered weeks in advance — by ordering them in winter, you ensure they’ll be ready by spring when you need them. Careful budgeting now means no expensive surprises later.
Take Care of Permits and Booking Early
Don’t forget the paperwork side of landscaping. Many projects (like building a deck or patio) need permits, which can take weeks or even months to approve. Submit any required permit applications during winter. That way, by the time the ground thaws, you won’t be stuck waiting on city approvals.
If you plan to hire a landscaping company, contact them during winter too. Professionals have more availability in the off-season, so you can reserve your ideal time slot and be on their calendar when spring arrives. With your permits in hand and your contractor lined up, you’ll be ready to start the project as soon as the weather cooperates, instead of sitting on a waitlist well into summer.
Calgary’s winter gives you the perfect chance to get all your plans in place. With a clear design, a set budget, and your permits and contractor ready, you’ll be able to leap into action as soon as the weather warms up. If you need expert assistance to bring your ideas to life, feel free to reach out to us via our contact page to get started on your spring landscaping project!