Homeowners typically pay for shrubs, soil, labor, and delivery when planting hedges or foundation plantings. Main cost drivers include shrub quality and size, site accessibility, and whether professional installation is used or DIY is chosen.
Assumptions: region, shrub species, yard accessibility, and whether professional installation is included.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shrubs (plants) | $2.50 | $8.50 | $25.00 | Per shrub; varies by species and size |
| Soil & planting mix | $15 | $40 | $150 | Includes amendments for drainage |
| Installation labor | $0 | $40 | $120 | Per shrub or per hour for crew |
| Delivery & disposal | $0 | $25 | $100 | Distance-based or cubic yard disposal |
| Mulch & protecting material | $5 | $20 | $60 | Mulch, weed barrier, stakes |
| Permits & inspections | $0 | $25 | $200 | Typically applicable for large installs |
| Subtotal (before tax) | $22.50 | $159.50 | $680 | |
| Taxes | $0 | $15 | $60 | State/local rates apply |
| Total | $22.50 | $174.50 | $740 | Typical range for 10–20 shrubs |
Overview Of Costs
Pricing spans reflect plant type, scale, and regional labor rates. The total project range typically runs from the low end of a few hundred dollars to well into the thousands for larger, multi-species landscapes. Per-shrub costs commonly range from $2.50 to $25 for plants, with installation and delivery adding $1–$15 per shrub depending on accessibility and distance. Assumptions include standard deciduous or evergreen shrubs and a residential landscape with average soil and level access.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Low | Average | High | Details | Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $12 | $45 | $160 | Shrubs, soil mix, mulch | |
| Labor | $0 | $40 | $120 | Planting, digging, staking | data-formula=”hours × rate”> |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0 | $25 | $100 | Transport, haul-away of debris | |
| Contingency | $0 | $10 | $50 | Unforeseen site issues | |
| Taxes | $0 | $15 | $60 | Sales tax by state |
What Drives Price
Species selection and size heavily influence cost. Shrubs with larger crowns or unusual color varieties cost more upfront. Availability in local nurseries, plant health, and warranty options affect price. Site conditions such as soil compaction, drainage, and sun exposure add to preparation work and may raise labor time and equipment needs.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor costs depend on crew size and regional wages. Typical residential installs use 1–2 workers for 1–2 hours per 10 shrubs, excluding heavy equipment. In urban areas, labor rates may be higher by 20–40% versus rural regions. Assumptions: standard planting depth, no irrigation installation.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to labor markets and shipping. Compare: Urban Northeast, Suburban Midwest, and Rural Southwest. Urban areas often have higher labor rates (+15% to +35%). Suburban regions may balance plant availability and service charges. Rural zones can offer lower labor but higher delivery costs or plant sourcing challenges.
Labor & Installation Time
Turnaround depends on site layout and irrigation compatibility. A simple 10-shrub installation on level ground may take 1–2 hours, while a multi-row hedge with irrigation prep can exceed 8 hours for a team. Consider per-hour or per-shrub pricing to align with project scope.
Extra Costs
Hidden or optional items can change the bill. Extras include irrigation installation, soil amendments beyond basic mix, weed barrier, deer protection, and warranty extensions. Delivery distance beyond 20 miles or uneven terrain often adds fees. Seasonal demand can influence availability and price.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical installations.
Assumptions: 12 shrubs, basic irrigation not included, standard soil, suburban market.
Basic: 12 shrubs, standard mix, DIY planting
The total ranges from $300 to $650. Shrubs priced at $2.50–$8 per plant, soil $15–$40, no installation labor, mulch optional. Total = Labor 0 + Materials + Mulch + Taxes.
Mid-Range: 12 shrubs, larger varieties, partial professional help
Estimated $900–$1,800. Shrubs $5–$12 each, installation for 12 shrubs at $40–$60 per shrub, delivery $25–$60, mulch and barrier $20–$40. Assumptions: two-person crew, moderate site prep.
Premium: 12 shrubs, premium varieties, full service
Estimated $2,800–$4,500. Higher-grade plants $15–$25 each, full installation including irrigation components and soil amendments, disposal, and warranty. Assumptions: larger root balls, complex layout, expanded crew.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.