Expert Landscaping Services in Minnesota: Otten Bros’ Design Process

Transforming your outdoor space into a beautiful, functional, and low-maintenance retreat requires more than just plants and mulch—it takes experience, vision, and a trusted team. Since 1953, Otten Bros has been helping Minnesotans bring their dream landscapes to life with professional landscaping services, a dedicated landscape design team, and a seamless design process from concept to completion.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your garden landscaping, build a new concrete patio, or install custom retaining walls, Otten Bros is one of the leading landscaping companies in MN. It is ready to elevate your outdoor living.

Why Choose Otten Bros for Your Landscaping Needs?

Otten Bros is more than just a 12-acre nursery—we’re a full-service landscape design company with a passion for creating beautiful, sustainable, and functional outdoor spaces.

Our services are designed to meet the needs of both residential and commercial clients and include:

• Full-scale landscape design in MN

• Outdoor living spaces and patios

• Retaining wall construction and hardscaping

• Drainage and erosion control solutions

• Low-maintenance landscape design

• Planting plans with native and low-maintenance plants

• Customized backyard landscape design ideas for any lifestyle

No matter the size of your project, our experienced landscape specialists and designers will guide you through every step with creativity, clarity, and craftsmanship.

A Look at Our Landscape Design Services

At Otten Bros, we offer a variety of landscape design services tailored to your unique space, goals, and budget. Here’s a look at what we can help you create:

1. Backyard & Front Yard Landscape Designs

From serene garden beds to dynamic luxury landscapes, we specialize in both backyard landscape ideas and front yard landscape designs that maximize curb appeal and livability.

2. Custom Retaining Walls

Our team designs and installs custom retaining walls that are as beautiful as they are functional. Whether you need a concrete block retaining wall for erosion control or a decorative stone wall to define spaces, we work with trusted retaining wall contractors for lasting results.

3. Hardscaping Features

Looking to expand your outdoor entertainment space? Add a concrete patio, paver walkway design, or stepping stone walkway design to create durable and stylish outdoor zones.

4. Drainage & Water Management

Proper landscaping drainage is critical to protecting your investment. We assess your property’s grading and water flow, then implement effective solutions like retaining walls and swales to manage landscape drainage naturally and attractively.

5. Low-Maintenance Planting Plans

Our experts will design a landscape full of hardy, low-maintenance plants that reduce upkeep while supporting pollinators and biodiversity.

Our Proven Landscape Design Process

Your landscape transformation starts with a plan—and our process makes it simple:

Step 1: Discovery & Consultation

We begin by meeting with you to understand your goals, style, and how you plan to use your space. Whether you want easy backyard landscape designs or a complete garden landscaping overhaul, we take time to listen.

Step 2: Site Visit & Assessment

A landscape designer visits your property to evaluate sun exposure, soil, drainage, and elevation. This allows us to design solutions that are not only beautiful but also practical and sustainable.

Step 3: Concept & Design

Next, we craft a custom plan featuring tailored landscape design ideas—from plant palettes and patio materials to retaining wall placement and walkway paths.

Step 4: Installation

Once the design is approved, our skilled crews and vetted partners install your project with attention to detail and respect for your property.

Step 5: Ongoing Support

We’re here to help you maintain your new landscape, recommend seasonal updates, and answer any care questions long after the install.

Learn more about our full design process here:
👉 Otten Bros Design Process

Featured Projects & Ideas

Otten Bros has designed and installed:

• Landscape design walkways with LED lighting and pollinator plantings

• Concrete patios paired with pergolas and raised beds

• Modern landscape front yard designs with structured hedges and natural stone

• Native garden beds around custom retaining walls

• Rain gardens that combine form, landscaping, and water drainage function

No two designs are the same—we customize every project to fit your property and personality.

FAQ: Otten Bros Landscaping Services

How much does landscape design cost?

Costs vary by scope and complexity. We offer consultations to assess your needs and provide accurate estimates for your project.

Can you handle drainage issues?

Absolutely. Our team designs solutions for landscaping drainage, erosion control, and standing water concerns.

Do you offer low-maintenance options?

Yes! We specialize in low-maintenance landscape design, using hardy plants, mulch, and hardscaping to reduce upkeep.

Do you handle both design and installation?

Yes—we’re a full-service landscape design company, handling everything from concept to completion.

Let’s Build Your Dream Landscape

Whether you want to upgrade your front entry, expand your patio, or build out a modern residential landscaping plan, Otten Bros is here to help you grow something amazing. With over 70 years of experience and a deep understanding of Minnesota landscaping, we’re the go-to choice for homeowners who want more than just pretty plants—they want thoughtful design and long-lasting value.

Visit our Landscape Design Services page to get started today!