FAQs
Our FAQ is designed to give you a clear sense of what to expect when working with Toots and Roots.
Whether you’re considering a spring cleanup, a full design plan, or something in between, the answers below will help you feel confident about your next step.
What types of projects do you take on?
We specialize in residential gardens in Chicago, some near suburbs, and the North Shore. Our work includes installing beautiful gardens — in yards, parkways, rooftops, and containers — as well as the essential hands-on work of gardening: weeding, pruning, composting and mulching, and irrigation installation.
We don’t build construction features (or remove large trees) ourselves, but we design them and work with trusted partners, and coordinate and include those elements in quotes for larger or more complex projects.
Can you help if I’m not sure what my garden needs yet?
Yes. We often work with clients who have a general goal or vision but want help refining it into something beautiful, practical or long-lasting.
Our recommendations prioritize sustainable solutions — including plant choices that use less water and avoid harsh pesticides and gas-powered equipment. We also regularly integrate edible plants and herbs into ornamental gardens, so your space can be both beautiful and productive.
Do you work with shade and other challenging growing conditions?
We do. Shade, compacted soil, hot rooftop gardens, and other challenging site conditions are common in Chicago — and something we work with more often than not.
We emphasize site-appropriate and native plant options that support pollinators and organic mulching and composting to help your garden thrive in real urban conditions.
How does pricing work?
Our pricing is intentionally transparent. Standard garden updates are billed at $55 per service hour on-site, plus the cost of materials such as plants, soil, and mulch.
For weeding & cleanup, you can save by booking online:
• Two people at 2.5 hours — $250 (regularly $275)
• Two people at 5 hours — $500 (regularly $550)
There is no charge for initial quotes or estimates, and we do not bill for behind-the-scenes work such as travel, or basic proposals.
Full garden plans with more involved designs are billed at $55 per hour for advanced proposals, which may include drawings, revisions, unique material sourcing, and feedback rounds, and construction coordination.
How much do projects typically cost, and how long do they take?
Every garden is different, but the real-world ranges below can help set expectations:
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A spring cleanup for a small garden typically starts around $275 and can be purchased in half-day or full-day increments.
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Cleaning up and updating an urban yard or parkway or a small suburban garden bed — including plants, mulch, and amendments — generally ranges from $800–$2,400 and usually takes place within one week.
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Garden design plans and installation, including more involved elements such as construction features, hardscaping, and fencing, typically range from $2,000–$14,000. The bulk of the work happens in one to two weeks, but we often have special orders or additions that come throughout the season.
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Container plantings and seasonal décor generally range from $150 for a custom arrangement to $650 for a coordinated multi-piece motif.
You’ll always receive a clear estimate before work begins.
Do you charge for estimates or initial consultations?
No. Initial quotes and basic project assessments are always provided at no cost.
How do I get started?
We have easy online scheduling. Start by selecting the service that best matches your needs and booking a visit so we can assess your garden together. If you know you simply need weeding or cleanup, you can schedule and pay for the service in advance online.
If you’re unsure what you need, feel free to text us — we’re happy to help guide you.
For all services booked online, you’ll receive a confirmation email right away, followed by a text reminder the day of your appointment.
Do I need to be home during the appointment?
For your first appointment, we ask that you plan for a brief conversation at the beginning and end of the visit — about ten minutes each.
After that, you don’t need to be home as long as we have access to the garden and clear communication.
That said, we value your input, and you’re always welcome to spend as much time with us as you’d like — including gardening alongside us.
Who will be working on my garden?
You’ll work directly with me, Madeline, as well as a small team when needed. We value your trust, respect your space, and ensure that everyone on our team is happy to discuss your needs with you on-site.
How do I know what I’m going to get?
For every project beyond basic weeding and cleanup, we provide a proposal outlining the scope of work, timeline, pricing, and images of proposed plants, amendments, and accessories.
Full design plans also include drawings and schematics. All proposals can be reviewed online.
How does payment work?
We simply send you a digital invoice. Payments can be made quickly and securely online. Projects with an estimated total over $300 require a 50% deposit.
Final invoices are based on actual material costs and hours worked, and the total may come in under the estimate — we like to err on the safe side, so sometimes our customers get a little unexpected savings. We won't exceed an approved estimate without your approval first — no surprises.