◆ Service · Chicago & nearby suburbs
Plant Installations
New plantings finish a hardscape project and frame a home or commercial entrance. We select and place plants for the site's sun, soil and space — and plant them when they can establish.
◆ Why it matters
Why it helps
Right plant, right place
Selections consider mature size, light and how the area drains.
Planted in season
Scheduled for spring and fall windows when establishment is easier.
Designed with hardscape
Plantings soften patios, walls and walkways.
Care instructions
Clear watering guidance for the first season.
◆ Our process
How it works
- 01Site walkthrough and layout ideas
- 02Plant selection and approval
- 03Bed preparation
- 04Planting and mulching
- 05Watering handoff
◆ What you get
What's included
- Plant layout
- Bed prep and planting
- Finished mulch
- First-season watering plan
- Cleanup
Photos from our jobs
◆ Timing & conditions
When this work is done best.
Planting is scheduled for the windows where new plants establish most reliably.
Best window
- • Spring and early fall are the most reliable planting windows in the Chicago area.
- • Fall planting lets roots settle before the next growing season.
Workable window
- • Container-grown material can be planted through the summer with committed watering.
- • Planting stops once the ground begins to freeze.
Weather
- • Planting is avoided during heat waves without a watering plan.
- • Very wet soil is left to drain so planting holes are not smeared closed.
Site conditions we check
- • Sun and shade through the day in each bed.
- • Soil drainage — some plants will not tolerate a wet spot no matter how they are planted.
- • Mature size versus available space, including clearance from walls, walks and windows.
- • Deer, rabbit and pet pressure on the property.
When we postpone
- • Frozen ground.
- • Beds with standing water that need drainage work first.
- • Requests for plants that will not suit the site's light or moisture conditions — we suggest alternatives instead.
How to prepare
- • Share what you want the planting to do: screening, colour, low maintenance or foundation cover.
- • Flag irrigation and utility lines in bed areas.
- • Plan for watering during the first season.
Aftercare
- • Water new plantings deeply and less frequently rather than briefly every day.
- • Keep mulch off stems and trunks.
- • Hold structural pruning until plants have established.
Why timing matters: Plants establish best when the weather is on their side. Matching the plant to the site and the planting to the season is what avoids replacements later.
Timing guidance is general for the Chicago area. Every property is different, and this service is not the right fit for every site or every season. We confirm suitability, timing and scope during an on-site assessment before any work is scheduled.
See the full Chicago Property Care Calendar →◆ Common questions
Plant Installations: what people ask
- How much does plant installations cost?
- J.E.M doesn't list set prices because every property is different. Estimates are free — request one below or call (773) 798-8148.
- What affects the estimate?
- Mainly number and size of plants, bed prep, and removal of existing plants.
- Does J.E.M need to see the property first?
- Often a short visit or a few photos is enough to quote. If anything needs a closer look, J.E.M will say so before giving a price.
- Which areas do you serve?
- Chicago and nearby suburbs, including Chicago, Naperville, Hinsdale, Oak Brook, Burr Ridge, Clarendon Hills and more. J.E.M comes to your property — the full list of towns is in the footer.
- How do I get started?
- Use the estimate form on this page or call (773) 798-8148. Sending a request is not a booking — J.E.M will contact you to confirm details and timing.
◆ Free estimate
Request an estimate or visit for plant installations.
Commercial or apartment property? Use the commercial estimate form.
◆ Ready when you are
Ready for a free estimate?
Free estimates for homes and businesses in Chicago and nearby suburbs.