Thinking about updating your landscape? Timing matters more than you might think—especially in North Jersey, where seasons can impact everything from plant survival to construction timelines.
At
Green Valley Landscaping NJ LLC, we’ve completed hundreds of projects across Ringwood, Wanaque, West Milford, and Franklin Lakes. With nearly 50 years of experience, we know exactly when to start different types of landscaping projects for the best results.
Here’s a breakdown of the ideal timing for planting, hardscaping, drainage, and more—plus tips to help you plan ahead and avoid common mistakes.
Why Timing Your Landscaping Project Matters
North Jersey’s weather can be unpredictable. If you start too early or too late, you risk:
- Poor plant establishment
- Delays due to wet or frozen ground
- Soil compaction from off-season equipment use
- Permitting backlogs during peak season
- Higher costs or rushed schedules
Whether you're planning a
custom patio,
deck,
planting bed, or
full property makeover, timing it right will save time, money, and headaches.
Best Seasons for Landscaping in North Jersey
Spring: Best for Design, Planning & Planting
Ideal for:
- New planting beds
- Lawn seeding or sod
- Tree and shrub installation
- Drainage improvements
- Landscape design consultations
Why it works:
Spring offers mild weather, soft soil, and plenty of time for roots to establish before summer heat. It’s also the perfect season to finalize designs for hardscape or larger summer projects.
Note: Spring is a busy time—book early to avoid scheduling delays.
Summer: Best for Hardscaping, Decks & Drainage
Ideal for:
- Patios and walkways
- Retaining walls
- Outdoor kitchens and fire features
- Deck construction
- Grading and excavation
- Irrigation upgrades
Why it works:
Dry ground and longer daylight hours allow us to complete complex construction projects efficiently. It’s also the best time to evaluate your yard’s drainage needs during storms.
Fall: Best for Cleanup, Planting & Soil Work
Ideal for:
- Fall cleanups
- Lawn renovation
- Tree and shrub planting
- Soil amendment and grading
- Mulching and erosion control
- Sprinkler system winterization
Why it works:
Cooler temps and regular rainfall make fall a great time to plant. Roots continue to grow even after the leaves drop, giving your plants a head start for spring. It’s also a key time for preparing drainage and soil for winter.
Winter: Best for Design, Permits & Planning Ahead
Ideal for:
- Landscape design planning
- Budgeting and phasing
- Permit applications
- Booking spring installs
Why it works:
While outdoor work slows, our design team is hard at work preparing for the next season. Winter is the ideal time to get ahead on permitting, material selection, and scheduling your project before the spring rush.
Project Type Breakdown: When to Start What?
