DIY Yard Work vs Hiring Professionals: A Personal Perspective

Deciding between doing your own yard work and hiring a professional can be a complex decision, often dependent on personal preferences, financial considerations, and the specific requirements of your landscape. In this article, we explore the pros and cons of each approach through the experiences of several individuals.

Experiencing the Pendulum of Yard Care

My husband managed our yard until his Parkinson’s Disease made it difficult for him. When he could no longer handle the tasks, we engaged a professional landscaping service. These professionals excel at their work and we appreciate the splendid appearance of our yard. However, there are times when taking on the duties oneself can be rewarding and mindful.

Personal Satisfaction and Cost-Effectiveness

Personally, I find immense satisfaction in doing the yard work myself. I ensure that everything is done to my precise specifications and standards, which is quite high. Additionally, I am known for my frugality, and paying for professional services often feels unnecessary.

I currently own a self-propelled 22-inch push mower and maintain a 1/2 acre lot on my own, even though I am 65 years old. My hip issues make it uncomfortable to continue this routine, but until I can no longer comfortably complete the tasks in about 40 minutes, I plan to stick with my current method.

From Self-Improvement to Professional Help

Before I could afford a landscaper, I personally undertook several maintenance tasks, including a DIY retaining wall and leveling my backyard. I planted my own shrubs and flowers for an extended period of time, but concerns about chemicals led me to use yard maintenance companies for certain tasks. Major jobs requiring structure and quality were left to professionals.

I currently handle the landscape myself, focusing on altering winter versus summer flowering plants for seasonal color. The shrubs and roses are permanent fixtures that demand routine care. While the use of chemicals remains an issue, I have a clearer conscience knowing they are managed by someone with a deep understanding of plant care.

Age and Maintenance

At 66, I enjoy taking pride in my yard and ensuring it appears its best. Sometimes, I collaborate with knowledgeable people to achieve my goals. For instance, when a drainfield was needed five years ago, I tackled the project with the help of a lot of how-to books and advice from a retired architect at a neighborhood “Free Consult the Pro” day. My tools were a garden spade and a wheelbarrow. However, this year, I plan to lay sleepers around one of my gardens but struggle physically to carry it out.

I consulted a professional who confirmed my construction ideas were correct but advised that the job was too small for the person I contacted. Now, I am on the hunt for a contractor who is less busy and has the right equipment to complete the task correctly. This kind of planning and adjustment is the key to balancing DIY and professional help in maintaining a beautiful yard.

Ultimately, whether you choose to do it yourself, hire professionals, or a combination of both, the key is understanding what works best for you. Whether you want the satisfaction of doing it yourself or the peace of mind that comes with professional care, both have their advantages and disadvantages. The most important aspect is ensuring your yard remains the best it can be, no matter your choice.