By ELLEN READ
How can plants or landscaping add to the appeal of my premises?
The first three seconds are the key to the lasting impression customers will have, says Graham Cleary, managing director of landscape consultant Natural Habitats.
It doesn't matter about the size of the premises, it's all about
the ambience. Does the customer want to be there? Do the plants or landscaping support the business' image - inside and out?
Floral plantings with their fresh, natural image and natives are popular at the moment.
From a few pot plants to a landscaped outdoor area, it is cheaper in the long term to have a plant or landscaping company looking after it, because your staff don't then get sidetracked into watering and trimming plants, and plants that die are replaced by the landscaper.
If you decide to work with a professional on plants and landscaping, it is sensible to ask to see references and portfolios of their previous work. The consultant should work with the business owner on the design and should provide sketches and a quote for the work.
Expect to pay around $100 an hour for a design professional.
* Send your Mentor questions to: Ellen Read
* Answers will be provided by Business in the Community's Business Mentor Programme.
