Frequently Asked
Questions
Answers to common questions about our services & approach.
Getting Started
How do I know if Hedgewitch is right for my project?
If you're interested in sustainable, ecologically-minded gardening, we want to work with you! Whether you want a complete landscape design, help transitioning from lawn to native plantings, or ongoing land stewardship, we'd love to chat. And while habitat gardening is our primary focus, we are happy to work on edible and orchard projects, cut flower gardens and medicinal plant designs — sustainability can go beyond ecological restoration. The best way to find out is to schedule a phone call. We'll discuss your goals and your site and see if we're a good match.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve the Greater Boston area and MetroWest Massachusetts, including Cambridge, Somerville, Arlington, Lexington, Concord, Newton, Brookline, Watertown, and Belmont. For larger projects, we may travel further — just ask!
What's the first step to working with you?
Start by filling out our contact form with some details about your project. We'll reach out within 2-3 business days to schedule an initial phone call. From there, we can set up an on-site consultation to see your space and discuss possibilities.
Design Process
What does a typical design project look like?
After an initial phone call, we will schedule a visit to conduct a thorough site analysis, taking into account sun exposure, soil conditions, drainage, and existing vegetation. We will meet with you to discuss problem areas and your goals. We use these details to develop a design concept, present it to you for feedback, and refine it until you're thrilled. The final deliverable includes a scaled planting plan, plant list, and installation estimate.
Do you only design with native plants?
We prioritize native plants because of their ecological benefits, but we're not dogmatic. We'll include well-behaved non-invasive plants when they serve a purpose — like favorite heirloom vegetables in an edible garden or beloved flowering perennials. Our goal is creating gardens that work ecologically while making you happy.
Can you work with my existing landscaper?
Yes — with alignment. We can collaborate with your existing landscaper, but it's important to note that ecological gardens are managed differently than conventional landscapes. Not all landscapers are familiar with these practices and improper installation and maintenance can impact the success of the design. Our goal is to protect the integrity of the system we've designed, and common conventional landscaping practices like frequent cutting, leaf removal and routine chemical use can unintentionally undermine that.
Maintenance
What is Hedgewitch Horticulture maintenance?
Often the goal of maintenance is static — keeping gardens exactly as they were when planted. At Hedgewitch, we see maintenance as a process. We guide gardens toward long-term stability, allowing the site and the plants to tell us what is working and where support is needed. As certified organic land care practitioners, we never use synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. Instead, we focus on building healthy soil ecosystems, encouraging beneficial insects, and selecting plants that thrive naturally in your conditions. This systemic approach creates a resilient landscape from the ground up and is better for your family, pets, wildlife, and the environment.
Do I need to sign a long-term contract?
We do not require clients to sign contracts. We offer monthly and quarterly visits throughout the season as well as a-la-carte visits. Clients who agree to regularly scheduled visits for the season receive priority scheduling to ensure consistent care. Some clients prefer to call us as needed, and we fit them in as we can.
Will my garden be messy if it's "natural"?
Not at all! Native gardens can be beautifully designed with clean edges, intentional plant combinations, and clear structure. We create gardens that look cared-for while providing habitat. The two aren't mutually exclusive. These signs of intentionality and stewardship are called "cues to care."
Native Plants
Why are native plants important?
Native plants have evolved alongside local wildlife over thousands of years, forming vital relationships with native pollinators, birds, beneficial insects and the soil itself. When you plant natives, you're not just creating a garden — you are restoring a piece of the ecosystem your land belongs to, and providing sustenance, safety and ecological value in addition to beauty.
Are native plants harder to find?
They're becoming more available every year! We have relationships with several small-scale nurseries that specialize in native plants, local ecotypes and non-neonic growing practices. Through them and more conventional nurseries, we can source most species for our projects.
Will native plants work in my shady yard?
Yes! As a naturally forested region, New England has a wealth of beautiful shade-tolerant natives. Ferns, wild ginger, Solomon's seal, foamflower, and many woodland sedges thrive in low light. We love designing shade gardens — they're some of our favorites.
Pricing & Payment
How much does a design project cost?
Our design work is billed hourly, and can vary widely based on property size and complexity. A garden design for a small area could be around $1,500, while a full-property master plan for a typical suburban lot could be anywhere from $3,000-$6,000+. We will agree upon a design budget threshold before beginning design work. Installation is priced separately and based on the scope of work from the design. Clients receive a detailed proposal with planting plan(s), design writeup and scope of work, and installation estimate.
What's your typical project timeline?
Design projects typically take 4-8 weeks from initial consultation to final plan delivery. Installation timing depends on project scope and our schedule — spring and fall are our busiest seasons. We recommend reaching out 2-3 months before you'd like work to begin.
What is the payment timeline?
We typically break payment into milestones. Design work is billed upon completion of the design phase and the invoice must be paid in full to receive your deliverables. Once design is approved, the installation will be scheduled in our calendar upon receipt of a 50% first payment. Final payment is billed at installation completion.