In Switzerland, a landscape gardener generally charges between 70 and 90 CHF per hour, and a gardener between 50 and 70 CHF. An annual maintenance contract often costs between 1,500 and 4,000 CHF, depending on the area. For a landscaping project (pathway, patio, planting), the price depends mainly on the materials and the preparation of the site.
How much does a gardener or landscape gardener cost?
| Service | Approximate price |
|---|---|
| Gardener (routine maintenance) | approx. 50 to 70 CHF/h |
| Landscape gardener | approx. 70 to 90 CHF/hour, up to 100 CHF/hour for complex projects |
| Lawn mowing | approx. 0.25 to 0.35 CHF/m² |
| Hedge trimming | approx. 4 to 8 CHF per metre, more expensive for heights over 2 m |
| Tree pruning | approx. 400 to 1,000 CHF |
| Felling a small tree | approx. 500 to 1,500 CHF, plus stump removal |
| Annual maintenance contract | approx. 1,500 to 4,000 CHF (8 to 12 visits) |
| Garden waste removal | approx. 30 to 50 CHF/m³ |
Source: MagicHeidi. Prices are often 15 to 25 per cent higher in urban areas (Geneva, Vaud, Zurich) and higher on sloping ground. Only quotes are binding.
Landscaping work
| Work | Guide price |
|---|---|
| Garden path (foundation and paving slabs) | approx. 80 to 120 CHF/m², excluding labour |
| Concrete slabs | approx. 15 to 45 CHF/m² (materials) |
| Paving stones | approx. 15 to 65 CHF/m² (materials) |
| Natural stone wall | approx. 200 to 250 CHF/m², plus labour |
| Concrete low wall | approx. 500 CHF/m² |
Source: indicative prices published by Houzy in 2023.
Planning your garden in 5 steps
- Assess the site: sunlight, shade, slope, soil type, water drainage.
- Decide on the uses: dining area, children’s play area, vegetable patch, quiet space, storage.
- Draw up a plan showing the different areas, paths and planting. A landscape gardener can do this for you.
- Carry out the major work first: earthworks, drainage, low walls, paths, patios, lighting and underground irrigation.
- Plant last, at the right time of year, then plan for maintenance.
Plant species suited to your region and soil type. They require less watering and maintenance, and attract beneficial insects.
Ideas for a low-maintenance garden
- Less lawn, more wildflower meadow: mow once or twice a year instead of once a week.
- Mulch your flowerbeds: this keeps weeds at bay and retains moisture.
- Hedges made up of native species rather than a uniform hedge: they’re hardier and better for biodiversity.
- Programmed drip irrigation for the vegetable patch and flowerbeds.
- Collect rainwater in a cistern or a barrel.
When should you carry out the work?
- Spring and autumn: the best seasons for planting trees, shrubs and hedges.
- Late winter: prune many trees and shrubs before new growth begins.
- Summer: a time for maintenance and watering; avoid planting large quantities of plants in very hot weather.
- Masonry work (paths, low walls): avoid frost and extreme heat.
Permits and neighbours
Certain outdoor works require a local authority permit: garden sheds, pergolas, swimming pools, walls or fences exceeding a certain height, and the felling of protected trees. The distances between plants and property boundaries are set by cantonal law. Check with your municipality before you start.