Let’s be honest—most homeowners hire landscapers hoping for a yard that looks great without the hassle. But if you’ve ever felt like your projects take longer, cost more, or don’t quite last… you’re not imagining it.

Here’s the deal: even the best landscapers won’t always spill everything. Whether it’s about cutting costs, long-term upkeep, or smart material choices, there are a few things they tend to keep to themselves.

We’re pulling back the curtain on the landscaping secrets that can save Salt Lake City homeowners money, maintenance, and frustration.

1. You’re Probably Overwatering (and Overpaying for It)

Most landscapes in Salt Lake City are overwatered—by a lot. Utah’s dry climate leads homeowners to think they need to compensate. But overwatering not only wastes money, it can stress out drought-tolerant plants and cause root rot.

Insider Tip: Use mulch to lock in moisture and water deeply, but less frequently. It encourages strong root growth and can cut your water bill significantly.

Find affordable mulch and bark products at DIY Landscape Supply to start saving water and keeping soil healthier.

2. Gravel Beds Are a Low-Maintenance Goldmine

If your landscaper isn’t recommending gravel or chat fines, they might be missing a huge opportunity for you. Gravel beds look polished, prevent weed growth, and last for years—without the upkeep of mulch.

They’re perfect for Salt Lake City’s high-desert climate and pair beautifully with native plants and boulders.

Explore options for decorative gravel, crusher fines, and pathway rock at DIY Landscape Supply.

3. They Mark Up Materials (Often 2–3x Retail Cost)

Many landscaping companies buy soil, mulch, and stone at bulk rates—then charge you a steep markup. By sourcing materials yourself, you can save hundreds on your next project.

You don’t have to settle for box store quality either. Buy direct from local suppliers who deliver.

Want to skip the markup? Order your bulk topsoil, compost, mulch, or gravel straight from DIY Landscape Supply.

4. Landscape Fabric Can Make Things Worse Over Time

That weed barrier your landscaper recommends? It often traps moisture and creates a mess when it starts breaking down. Weeds eventually grow through it anyway, and removing it later is a nightmare.

Instead: Use a thick layer of mulch or gravel as a natural weed suppressant. It breathes better, looks more organic, and decomposes cleanly.

5. Not All “Professional” Edging Is Built to Last

Many jobs look great when finished but start to unravel within a season. Cheap plastic edging warps in the Utah sun, and improper installation can leave materials spilling into walkways or lawns.

Use chat borders, bender board, or decorative rock for a cleaner, more durable finish.

DIY Landscape Supply stocks premium edging materials that hold up under extreme Salt Lake weather.

6. Bigger Plants Aren’t Always Better

Landscapers love selling you the biggest, priciest shrubs at the nursery. But large plants often suffer from transplant shock and may not survive.

Younger plants are cheaper, grow faster once established, and adapt better to local conditions.

Save your budget for soil and mulch—where it actually improves long-term growth.

7. You Can Do More Than You Think Without Power Tools

The idea that landscaping is a “pro-only” job is outdated. With pre-cut materials, no-dig edging, and ready-to-plant soil mixes, weekend warriors in Salt Lake City are building fire pits, flower beds, and pathways that look pro-level—without a crew.

Browse all the tools and materials that make it easy to DIY like a pro at DIY Landscape Supply.

FAQs

Is it cheaper to buy landscape materials yourself in Salt Lake City?
Yes! You can avoid contractor markups and get better quality by ordering direct from suppliers like DIY Landscape Supply.

What is the best low-maintenance landscaping material for Utah yards?
Gravel, chat fines, and mulch are excellent for Utah’s dry climate and offer a polished, long-lasting look with very little upkeep.

How deep should mulch be to stop weeds?
Apply mulch 2–3 inches deep to effectively suppress weeds and retain moisture.

Can I install edging or borders without a landscaper?
Absolutely. With a spade and some patience, DIYers can install chat borders or bender board edging in a single afternoon.

What materials last longest in Salt Lake City’s weather?
Stone, gravel, crushed rock, and bark mulch hold up best through hot summers and cold winters.

What This Means for You

These landscaping secrets aren’t about cutting corners—they’re about working smarter. Whether you’re planning a full yard renovation or just cleaning up some flower beds, knowing these tricks puts you in control of your time, your budget, and your results.

Ready to take charge of your landscaping? Shop affordable, professional-grade materials at DIY Landscape Supply.