Behind the Price Tag: The Truth About Tree Costs in Landscaping

Trees are the backbone of any landscape—offering shade, structure, seasonal interest, and ecological benefits. But for clients and even some designers, tree pricing can feel opaque. Why does one 6-foot tree cost $150 while another rings in at $800? Let’s demystify the process.

1. Size Matters—But It’s Not Just Height

Tree pricing often starts with size, but it’s more nuanced than just measuring from base to tip.

• Caliper (trunk diameter): For deciduous trees, nurseries typically price by caliper. A 1" caliper tree may cost $200–$300, while a 3" caliper tree can exceed $800.

• Container size: Evergreens and ornamental trees are often priced by pot size (e.g., 15-gallon, 25-gallon), which loosely correlates with age and root development.

• Height: Taller trees require more years of nursery care, more soil volume, and more labor to transport—so prices scale accordingly.

2. Species and Cultivar Selection

Not all trees are created equal. Pricing reflects rarity, growth rate, and nursery availability.

• Fast growers like Leyland Cypress or River Birch tend to be more affordable.

• Slow growers like Japanese Maple or Blue Atlas Cedar command higher prices due to longer nursery timelines.

• Specialty cultivars (e.g., columnar forms, variegated foliage, disease resistance) often carry a premium.

  
  

3. Nursery Source and Quality

Wholesale vs. retail, field-grown vs. container-grown—these factors shape both price and performance. Field-grown trees may be cheaper but require root ball wrapping and careful transplanting. Container-grown trees are pricier but often establish more reliably.

4. Installation Costs

Tree pricing isn’t just about the plant—it’s about getting it in the ground safely and successfully.

• Labor: Digging, amending soil, staking, and mulching can add $100–$300 per tree depending on site conditions.

• Equipment: Larger trees may require machinery, increasing install costs.

• Warranty: Our trees include a limited warranty, which factors into pricing.

  
  

5. Design and Placement Strategy

As a designer, tree selection is strategic. A $600 specimen tree may anchor a space more effectively than three $200 fillers.

• Focal trees justify higher investment due to their visual and emotional impact.

• Screening trees are often purchased in bulk, so cost-efficiency matters.

• Successional planting allows for phased installation, balancing budget and growth.

  
  

A tall tree providing shade in a garden

Final Thoughts

Tree pricing is a blend of horticulture, logistics, and design intent. By understanding the variables—size, species, source, and install—you can guide clients toward smart investments that elevate their landscape for decades.