Frequently asked questions
Common questions about our landscaping, hardscape, and maintenance services in Keego Harbor and Oakland County, Michigan.
General questions
What areas do you serve in Southeast Michigan?
Imagine Elysian serves all of Southeast Michigan including Oakland County (West Bloomfield, Bloomfield Hills, Troy, Birmingham, Pontiac, Farmington Hills), Macomb County (Shelby Township, Sterling Heights, Clinton Township), Wayne County (Livonia, Canton, Plymouth), and surrounding communities. Call (248) 830-0059 to confirm service in your specific location.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. Imagine Elysian is fully licensed and insured in the state of Michigan. Our team includes ISA-certified arborists and trained landscape professionals with over 30 years of experience in the green industry. We carry full general liability and workers' compensation coverage on every job.
How do I get started with a landscaping project?
The easiest way is to call us at (248) 830-0059 or submit a request through our online quote form. We'll schedule a free on-site visit to assess your property, discuss your goals, and put together a detailed written estimate. There's no obligation — we want to make sure we're a good fit before any contract is signed.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes. We provide free on-site consultations and written estimates for all landscape design, hardscape, tree care, and maintenance projects within our service area. We believe you should know the full scope and cost before making any commitment.
What is your typical project timeline?
It depends on the type and scale of work. Smaller maintenance jobs can often be scheduled within 1–2 weeks. Landscape design projects require 2–4 weeks for design development, then scheduling installation based on our crew availability. Hardscape (patio, retaining wall) projects are typically scheduled 3–6 weeks out during peak season. We recommend contacting us in winter (December–February) for spring projects to secure your preferred start date.
Do you offer financing?
We work with select financing partners for larger projects. Contact us directly to discuss options for your project. We can discuss payment structures and phased project approaches to fit most budgets.
Scheduling & process
When is the best time to start a landscaping project in Michigan?
Michigan's best windows for landscape installation are spring (April–June) and early fall (August–October). Spring is ideal for planting, lawn establishment, and annual color installation. Fall is excellent for hardscape construction, tree planting, and overseeding — the ground is warm, crews are less rushed, and plants establish roots before winter. We're also happy to consult in winter so your project is fully planned and ready to launch at first thaw.
How far in advance should I book?
For spring projects, we strongly recommend reaching out by February or March — our schedule fills quickly once the season kicks in. For summer and fall projects, 4–6 weeks of lead time is typical. For snow plowing contracts, contact us by September to secure a spot before our routes fill. Emergency tree services are handled as quickly as possible regardless of schedule.
What happens if weather delays my project?
Weather delays are common in Michigan and we manage them proactively. We'll communicate any scheduling changes as early as possible, and our crews work efficiently to make up time. Hardscape projects require dry conditions for proper base compaction and installation — we never cut corners to hit a deadline at the expense of quality.
Do you handle permits?
For most residential landscaping and hardscape projects, permits are not required. However, some larger retaining walls, grading projects, or projects near wetlands may require local permits. We're familiar with Oakland County and surrounding municipalities' requirements and can advise you on what's needed for your specific project. When permits are required, we can help facilitate the application process.
Materials & quality
What materials do you use for paver patios and hardscaping?
We work with a range of materials including tumbled and smooth concrete pavers (Belgard, Unilock, EP Henry), natural stone (bluestone, limestone, fieldstone), clay brick, and segmental retaining wall block. Material selection depends on your aesthetic goals, budget, and the functional requirements of your project. We'll walk you through options during your consultation — we never push premium materials unnecessarily.
Do you offer warranties?
Yes. We stand behind our work. Hardscape installations come with a workmanship warranty. Plant materials are warrantied per industry standards — typically one full growing season for trees and shrubs installed under normal conditions. We'll outline the specific warranty terms for your project in your written proposal.
Can I choose my own materials?
Absolutely. We're happy to work with materials you've selected, or we can source materials on your behalf. If you've seen a specific paver, stone, or plant at a neighbor's property or online, bring us the reference and we'll identify and source it for you.
Maintenance programs
Do you offer ongoing landscape maintenance plans?
Yes. We offer annual and seasonal maintenance programs for both residential and commercial properties. Programs can include regular mowing, edging, mulching, pruning, seasonal planting, fertilization, and winter cleanup. Maintenance clients also receive priority scheduling for additional services throughout the season.
What does a landscape maintenance plan include?
Our maintenance programs are customized to your property. A typical residential plan includes: spring cleanup and mulching, regular bed maintenance (weeding, edging, pruning), seasonal color installation, fall cleanup and leaf removal, and optional lawn care add-ons. Commercial programs include all of the above plus mowing schedules, irrigation oversight, and snow removal coordination in winter.
Can I customize my maintenance plan?
Yes. We build maintenance plans around your property and budget — not off a one-size-fits-all checklist. Some clients want full-service, hands-off care. Others just need a few visits per season for specialized services. We're flexible. Let's talk about what your property needs and build from there.
Still have questions?
We're happy to talk through your project — no pressure, no obligation.