FAQ

General Questions

What are your hours of operation?

Our hour’s change depending on the season and the most current hours will be displayed on contact page and the garden center page at the bottom please click HERE to view.

What payment methods do you accept?

Payment Option#1: ACH Payment
Most of our clients love to automate their recurring expenses. We have made this possible with our ACH system. When the monthly email invoice is sent over there is a link that allows you to set up automatic ACH payments. You can set this up for a one-time payment or set it to pay whenever an invoice is created on your account.
– Please note unless the invoice number is noted on the check the amount will be applied to your oldest open invoice. We suggest writing the invoice number in the memo section of your check.
– All payments should be made payable to Bella Terra Landscapes & Garden Center
– Please mail all payments to 13482 Spicer Rd Ellendale, DE 19941

Payment Option #2: Your Bank Bill Pay
Some of our clients like to automate these payments via their bank’s online bill pay system. The option is fine but has a couple of drawbacks. Most banks use a third party to process the checks they send out for expenses you are paying. The money is removed from your account to the third party, so it looks like you have paid, but we have yet to receive the check. These checks tend to be more delayed than what is promised on the bank’s website. This delay may result in you getting a past-due notice from our automated system and much confusion. In addition, any add-on services you requested would not be automatically added to your check and would need to be manually included.

Payment Option #3: Handwritten Check
We are getting less and less of these but some people still prefer to hand-write checks out monthly and mail them in. This is possible.

Payment Option#4: Credit Card
We have the option that you can use a credit card for an additional 3.5% service fee.

Garden Center

Do you have a gift shop?

We have our garden décor and gift items displayed throughout the garden center, but we do not currently have a retail store.

Are you open year-round?

Yes! Our greenhouses are warm in the Winter and we have many seasonal items. Please check hours of operation as they do change based on the season.

Do you offer landscape design for homeowners?

Our garden center staff do not provide design services, however we do offer landscape design through our installation department.

Can you install the plants I purchase at Bella Terra?

Yes, we would be happy to! If your installation will entail more than a few trees or shrubs, someone will need to do a site visit and provide a customized estimate.

Do you hold plant material?

We can hold items if they are paid for in full and picked up within one week. If plants are not claimed within one week, a 10% restocking fee will be charged for these items. Also, we do not hold annual plants. We can only hold perennials, shrubs, trees and hardgood items.

Can you order specific plants if you don’t have them in stock?

Absolutely! Please let one of our staff know what you are looking for and at what size, and we will do our best to locate it for you.

Do you ship plants?

Not at this time.

Do you deliver?

We will be happy to deliver plants and bulk materials as long as your address is within our service area. (CLICK HERE TO SEE)

What is the Garden Club and how do I sign up?

We love our customers so we like to give back. The Garden Club rewards our customers when they shop with us. For every $10 you spend on regular-priced plants you will receive $1 in rewards to shop in the future toward anything you want to purchase in the Garden Center. You can sign up HERE.

Landscape Installation

Why choose Bella Terra?

We have been in business for over 20 years. We have phenomenal reviews, a dedication to excellent customer service, and a commitment to exceeding your expectations. We’ve developed a reputation as the premier provider of landscape design and landscaping services, and we’re confident in what we do.

What is the process to get an estimate for a landscape project with Bella Terra?

Our staff will chat with you about your scope of work, target budget, and the timeframe in which you would like your installation done to determine whether we are a good fit for your project. For design services, we have a $100 on-refundable consultation fee that we collect to secure an appointment with a designer. Following the consultation, you will receive a contract for design services. The consultation fee covers our travel time to your site and is considered a service in and of itself as our seasoned designers will do an in-depth evaluation of your property and point out any items that need to be considered during your installation. Our designs are drawn to scale and will be used for your municipal or HOA permit applications, and our crews will also use them during the installation to make sure that it is completed exactly as described on the plan and in your contract.

What if I already have a landscape design and just want a price to have it installed?

Our landscape design team will evaluate your drawing to ensure that it has all of the elements required for it to be used for an accurate installation. If it does, you will pay the $100 consultation fee for a site evaluation prior to receiving the estimate for your landscape installation. Any changes that need to be done to your plant need to be done by your landscape architect. If our designers need to modify the plan, you will be charged our hourly rate.

What is “softscaping”?

Softscaping a component of landscape projects that refers to the preparation for, and the installation of, plant material. Softscape elements include: grading, soil amendments, drainage, sod, trees, shrubs and perennials.

What is “hardscaping”?

Hardscape refers to the fixed, long-lasting structures installed on your property. This generally includes walkways and driveways, patios, decks and decorative stone.

Are there any parts of my landscape design that Bella Terra does not install?

We do not install asphalt, concrete, fencing, pergolas, sheds, ponds or pools. We do have TRUSTED PARTNERS that we can hire for you as subcontractors, or that you can hire on your own to do those portions of the project.

Landscape Maintenance & Irrigation

What does a landscape maintenance package include?

Our package includes weekly mowing, spring cleanup of grounds, hardwood mulch/pine needle mulch installation, monthly weeding, cleaning, and pruning visits during the growing season, and Fall cleanup of grounds. Additional services provided are irrigation system maintenance, leaf removals, and plantings of summer and fall annuals.

Are there any landscape maintenance services that you do not provide?

Turf nutrient management and plant health care. Our sister company ARBOR CARE offers these services and most of our clients use their services.

Can I sign up for maintenance services at any point in the year?

Absolutely. We are always taking on new clients throughout the year. Your contract does not
need to start at the beginning of a new year.

Do you provide on-demand services?

We do, however only when it can be worked in amongst our scheduled jobs. There may be times when your timeframe does not line up with what we have available.

How much do your landscape maintenance packages cost?

Once we take measurements of your grounds and assess your plant material, we can generate you an estimate. Your contract will be a fixed amount with 12 monthly payments and renews after 12 months barring any changes. Anything above and beyond what is included in your contract will be billed separately.

What type of maintenance does an irrigation system require?

Proper maintenance of your home’s irrigation system can reduce water waste and improve plant health. Regular maintenance includes inspecting the controller, updating watering schedules, checking all wire connections, repairing any problem areas, etc. In addition, Bella Terra can also perform system audits to help determine the efficiency of the water being applied throughout your sprinkler system and can adjust immediately to correct any issues.

What makes Bella Terra Landscapes different than the other companies in my area?

Bella Terra has been maintaining landscapes in eastern Sussex County Delaware for over 2 decades. We are immersed in providing superior customer service and keeping our clients up to date on what’s happening on their property.

Our Google Reviews

Bella Terra Landscape and Garden Center

4.7

Based on 221 reviews

review us on

Barry Shapiro

2 years ago

Bella Terra just completed a design and installation of landscaping, lighting and irrigation for our home in Rehoboth. We had a great experience from start to finish. Austin was thoughtful and knowledgeable and created a wonderful plan for us. We visited the nursery to look at plants and materials and Jay was equally knowledgeable and patient in touring us thru the nursery. The crew that installed was considerate and workmanlike and polite in addition to doing great work. We are delighted with the finished product!!

Antonio Zeppa

2 years ago

Sarah Higgins

2 years ago

8/6 - We asked for a new plant bed and Deb and her crew, Antonio, Miguel, Marco and Ricardo came out a few days later and installed the bed. They were very nice and worked hard and cleaned up afterwards. Very happy with this service and will continue to use Bella Terra!!

Stephanie Chau

2 years ago

This is the company that does not care. I live in a townhome in Lewes and had a lovely pumpkin vine, full of blooms -- I have been nurturing it and just waiting for all the pumpkins. The landscapers were trimming the large shrubs behind my pumpkin vine--- and trimmed my vine!! One small vine was left, the poor flowers all trampled on the ground... no pumpkins for me. I understand that it was an accident: I don't blame the landscapers so much. But when I called they office, they were friendly until they discovered I just rent at a townhouse ("That is a commercial property, ma'am") and took no responsibility for the problem. They brushed me off by saying they had already spoken to their guys and that my plant is "Fine". I guess if you're not a wealthy customer, they don't take responsibility for their actions. I recommend you find a landscaper with more integrity.

rich borrasso

2 years ago

Most recent irrigation service was professional and well done as always!

Denise Adams Hamilton

2 years ago

Shopped some 50% off on annuals and found some lovely perennials.

shirley mitchell

2 years ago

Had a great experience with Romeo and Amar. Prompt and professional is just the beginning. After a brief conversation including my concerns with the irrigation, the two gentleman worked their magic. Zone by zone, adjusting the heads as needed. Most of them did need adjustment, as I had several large areas that were not getting water. One head needed to be moved to get the most from it, another was repaired, one replaced, and we added one new one between the house and the garage for ample coverage. I highly recommend Bella Terra and their Staff for any irrigation and or landscaping needs you may have. They are definitely my go to from here forward. So stop on by today and tell them I sent you.

Peggy West

2 years ago

First time there, beautiful flowers. Trees, bushes and shrubs

Cindy Anastasi

2 years ago

Just wanted to do a huge positive shout out for Danny, your designer and installer. Everyone that has worked on our project including Austin, Ken and chris have all been awesome. Danny, however has just gone above and beyond. He is always ready to answer any questions we have. He has made great suggestions and helped us to learn abut which plants and trees work well in our yard. Our project cane out so great and we are thrilled. Danny is just all around a pleasant guy and he deserves a raise! 🙂

Paige

2 years ago

Update may 2024: Keeping at 3 stars. But frustrated that they sold me a diseased Dapple Willow and are not responding to my calls or emails. Won't be purchasing with them anymore. 2022: Not sure where to start ... I guess I'll start by saying that a lot of things were over-promised and grossly under delivered... To the tune of almost $7k ! Great intentions by Bella Terra but in the end my experience was less than good. Even after the project was done, and given all the challenges that we had leading up to that, they still came back and refused to replace 4 of the plants that were very sickly looking. 2 beach grasses we're overrun with crab grass and 2 of the barberry bushes were sickly looking .. very small and immature with very few leaves (see pictures). What professional landscaping company doesn't certify their work and product? Well, Bella Terra clearly does not. And for this reason I will not be recommending them or going back for further work. Overpriced. Unprofessional. Sub-par product. But I guess that's what you get when you try to use their maintenance crew (Danny and team) to design and deliver new landscape ideas and products. It's possible that the other reviews below were against their professional landscaping division and not against the maintenance division. My bad for thinking I could get quality work and product from a lawn maintenance crew.

Danny Sebright

2 years ago

Just a quick note to say thank you to the team at Bella Terra for the excellent service I have been receiving. Garrett and Chris have followed up meticulously to take care of all specific spring clean up chores that were needed to get my property all cleaned up for the new season. Garrett has been a fantastic overall manager and follows up carefully with all of your team members to make sure that the various items are accomplished. He is personable, friendly, and committed to getting the job done right and I really appreciate that very much. Of course, Chris expertly manages the team that comes to the house on a week to week basis. And they always do a great job in executing. Excited for another season in Rehoboth. Thanks again for the excellent work from Bella Terra.

Susan Faga

2 years ago

I know Bella Terra has won awards and is credited as a reputable landscaping company but I am very disappointed on a few levels: customer service leaves a lot to be desired, I sent three emails, called four times and left detailed messages…. to no avail. Finally, I went there personally to tell them that a tree i bought from them, and which they planted only 8 months ago died (it’s on my front lawn) and I would like it replaced. Much to my dismay and surprise there is no warranty on trees, well… i guess nobody at their establishment thought to tell me that on the onset??? They wasted a lot of my time. Oh, and the tree i spent 90.00 on was planted by their guys for 200.00. it was a very small tree so although 200.00 was steep…. what’s an old woman to do?? so I went with it. However, the Hibiscus tree i bought died too although I brought it in for the winter. It’s a shame that Bella Terra has so much business that they can basically tell their customers “too bad” and thumb their noses at us…. “not under warranty”…I say there are other better landscaping companies that stand by their reputation and their products. Bella Terra has lost my business….. Even Home Depot will warranty their trees for a year! don’t shop at Bella Terra! they are too big for their own britches or is it Birches…..

Robert Smith

3 years ago

A big thank you to Ken and Tony's crew for reconfiguring and repairing my irrigation system.

Nick S.

3 years ago

Love this place. It is always like a wonderland of plants

Elaine Taylor

3 years ago

I needed to have some adjustments made to one zone of my irrigation system. I called Bella Terra and Ken promptly got in touch with me. He came out within 2 days with Julio and Romeo. We discussed the issue and decided on what needed to be done. Julio and Romeo did a fantastic job getting the job done and explaining everything they did. I am a very satisfied Bella Terra customer and rely on them for all of my landscape maintenance and irrigation work. Thanks again Ken, Julio and Romeo!

Kris Aulenbach

3 years ago

The softscape and hardscape work at our house is almost complete and we want to take this opportunity to tell you how pleased we are with the work and your staff. Rebecca worked with us on a beautiful design incorporating native plants and pollinators; the hardscape crew has done artistic work on the patio and two sets of steps; Ronnie and his crew carefully created beds, planted and mulched; and the irrigation team of Luis, Mario and Oscar installed our boulder fountain today, completing the irrigation work that was done by additional staff in the fall. Everyone was friendly, patiently answered any questions we had and cleaned up the yard each day before departing. The entire crew has been a pleasure to work with. We can't wait to enjoy the patio and see the plants leaf out/bloom in a few months.

Russ Faust

3 years ago

Awsome selection of plant material and great quality. Staff very helpful with information for care and selection.

Robin Parker

3 years ago

Hamilton Schlabach

3 years ago

Cindi Brooks

3 years ago

The crew from Bella Terra was on time, professional, friendly and helpful in explaining their work. They did a great job with the planting, mulching, watering and cleaning up. The plants and tree were healthy looking and full. I recommend Bella Terra for any landscaping needs.

Carri Herring

3 years ago

Patti Rohmiller

3 years ago

I had Bella Terra come out to give me some ideas to landscape my front yard. Austin came out and designed a beautiful landscape. I was so pleased with the front yard I had Austin come out last month to design my side and back yard. I also had Ken come out regarding installing an irrigation system. Again I am beyond pleased with everything. There were 3 crews out and completed all the landscaping in one day. I had a couple of questions regarding the irrigation and Ken came out that day. Tony explained the irrigation and drip lines to me. Great crews, definitely know their work and professional experience. I highly recommend Bella Terra with all your landscaping and irrigation. Thank you all so much. Thank you install team of DJ, Greg, Mike, Nick and Annibal and irrigation team of Tony, Oscar, Julio, Romeo, Chris and Mario. You are all a great asset to Bella Terra!

Doris Greenblatt

3 years ago

Wonderful advice. Deb is very knowledgeable & helped guide me in choosing plants & flowers I considered. Justin is also available & eager to attend to maintenance issues

Bill Wheeler

3 years ago

Nice place to get flowers 💐

Marc Kernisan

3 years ago

Ellen Brotman

3 years ago

Donna Cochran

3 years ago

I went to " Bella Terra" and I was wearing my gardening clothing. I had some questions about some different flowers.The guy acted like I was a homeless person and just walked away. They can kiss my business good bye!!

Wayne Eichler

3 years ago

We have been customers of Bella Terra for a few years and visited their nursery today. The layout of plants and flowers under the trees was outstanding. Really enjoyed the experience as if strolling in a park. Thanks for all the hard work putting this together. I recommend this company. You will not be disappointed!

Laura Gagnon

3 years ago

The staff at Bella Terra were beyond helpful over the phone. They made the process of living states away possible to get my mother in law the best plant and gift card for her future purchases. Thank you guys for being Amazing! 😊

Barbara Walsh

3 years ago

Shout out to Deb Small for her prompt attention to our property. She came out today and walked the property with us to help us figure out how to add some more plants to our year old landscape design. We really appreciate Deb's advice and the fact that she responds in a timely manner. Any time we have had a problem over the past year Deb has quickly come on site and checked it out. Deb gives the kind of service we hoped for by contracting with your service department. Kudos!

Louise King Jones

4 years ago

I continue to receive attentive and professional services from Bella Terra. All departments including Deb in maintenance, Austin in design, Shana and the other office staff, the maintenance workers, and everyone I have dealt with over four seasons, are responsive and polite and very helpful. I truly appreciate everyone and am thankful for their assistance! My yard is gorgeous!

carole baker

4 years ago

Chris and his crew did a great job on our new flower beds. They removed all existing shrubs and installed new plants based on Austin’s fantastic design plan. Due to work on our driveway, they had to park around the corner and make multiple trips to their trucks for material and disposing of old plants. The new beds now have drip irrigation which the crew installed. They answered all my questions and were very professional. I highly recommend Bella Terra for your landscaping design and installation.

Christina J

4 years ago

I recently had a major landscape design and installation by Bella Terra Landscaping. Included also were an irrigation system and sod replacement. I was so impressed by the workmanship of Tony and other crew members. They all worked very well as a team and maintained a steady pace all day, every day. It was apparent that they knew exactly what to do and how to do it. At the end of each day, the the work site was always cleaned and cleared of any debris or equipment. The entire crew were polite and respectful of our property. The end product is a beautiful, transformed lawn with multiple plant and flower beds. Once work started, the project was on time and completed within the timeline proposed. At the end of the project, an appointment was made by Ken to explain the irrigation system and next steps for maintenance.

Theresa Middlebrooks

4 years ago

We had Bella Terra install a landscape bed in our rear yard on Monday. The final result is lovely, and I can't wait to see it next Spring. The crew they sent was steadily hardworking, polite and neat. I will use Bella Terra again as we continue to develop our landscape around the house. Highly recommend them.

Daniella Rollman

4 years ago

Always beautiful flowers and lovely trees. So happy with our coral bark maple & Japanese Emporor maple. I always enjoy just walking all around to see what's new. Such a relaxing trip. Highly recommend for indoor or outdoor needs. Staff is always helpful and knowledgeable.

Tasha Terrigno

4 years ago

I went for a visit this weekend for my first time what an amazing selection. Was greeted right away with bubbles for my two girls, such a huge space and so many great indoor plants. Got way to many thanks. Got this beauty for less than $20 !!

Ann Dinkel

4 years ago

BJ and his crew did a wonderful job of remaking a section of landscaped bed around the house. The result was better than we had imagined and we are very pleased with the result. Drainage, sod, plants all look great, and they even blew off the walkways around the house! They worked steadily, carefully and make a remarkable transformation in a short period of time. Highly recommend them.