FAQS

For further assistance, please contact headquarters at 4305 North Sixth Street Suite A, Harrisburg, PA 17110 or send an e-mail to communications@apld.org.

  • WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LANDSCAPE DESIGNERS, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, AND LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS?

    These broad definitions apply to the United States only.  Laws vary from state to state regarding the work performed by landscape designers, landscape architects and landscape contractors. Some need to be licensed by the state; others do not.  Permits may or may not be required for landscape work performed in your state or locality.

      
    Landscape designers typically have training in landscape design and horticulture through formal education or on-the-job experience. The Association of Professional Landscape Designer's certification program confers professional recognition to landscape designers based on experience and established standards of excellence. Landscape designers provide design concepts, landscape plans, and selection of materials. Some designers provide only design services, others work closely with contractors during installation and some provide construction services themselves as permitted by state law. Many landscape designers are also professional horticulturists.  Landscape designers can provide design services for both residential and commercial clients, although many specialize in residential design.

    Landscape architects have obtained a degree in landscape architecture from an accredited school.  Only those who have have met their respective state requirements may call themselves landscape architects. A landscape architecture curriculum usually emphasizes site analysis, design, presentation and construction techniques rather than horticulture.  In addition to the types of plans provided by a landscape designer, many landscape architects produce plans and construction -ready documents for institutional and commercial projects.

    Landscape contractors perform a wide range of services, including garden and lawn installation, garden maintenance, masonry, carpentry, other landscape elements and sometimes design. Many work for nurseries or design/build companies and others have their own firms. When working with a landscape contractor, be sure to clarify the design process used, whether you will receive drawings for your review and approval, or whether you have just a verbal description of the landscape to be installed. 

  • HOW MUCH EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED TO BECOME AN APLD MEMBER?

    You can become a member as a student or with any length of experience.  You must have at least four years of experience to apply for certification.

  • HOW CAN I FIND OUT ABOUT MY BENEFITS AS AN APLD MEMBER?

    Log on to the “Member’s Only” section of the website and read or download the Member’s Handbook.  The handbook contains just about everything you might want to know about membership.

  • What do the letters APLD mean after someone's name?

    The APLD professional designation indicates that the member has submitted their work for certification and was approved.  For more about certification, please click the certification tab in the left sidebar.

  • HOW MUCH SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND INSTALLATION?

    There is extensive documentation of the value that intelligent, thoughtful landscape design can add to your home. Well designed, installed and maintained landscaping can substantially increase the overall value of your home. A budgeting rule of thumb for a complete landscape installation or renovation is five to ten percent of the total value of your home, including the land. Therefore, if you own a $550,000 home, plan to spend between $27,500-$55,500 for a basic, functional landscape that will return up to 200 percent in value. Unusual materials, mature specimen plantings, or elaborate hardscape will add to this figure.

    The most successful landscape projects start with a realistic budget. Don’t hesitate to share your budget with the landscape designer. A professional landscape designer can help strike a balance between special materials and cost-conscious choices to create a beautiful space that meets your functional, aesthetic, and budget preferences before you ask contractors for bids.

    Finally, be sure to budget for the ongoing care and maintenance of your new surroundings. Good maintenance will protect your investment and ensure many years of personal enjoyment and satisfaction.