Frequently Asked Questions

What garden services do you offer in Greater Portland, ME?

Skeleton Figure offers full-service garden consulting, design, installation and maintenance in Cape Elizabeth and the surrounding Maine coast. I specialize in small ornamental or vegetable gardens, native plant landscaping, potting and arrangements, and custom installations that fit your property, budget, and lifestyle.

Do you work with native plants in Maine?

Yes! I love working with native plants because they are naturally adapted to Maine’s coastal climate. Along the coast, gardens face unique conditions—salt spray, strong winds, sandy or rocky soils, and wide seasonal swings. Native plants have evolved to handle these stresses, which allows them to establish more easily, require less intervention over time, and contribute to resilient, long-lasting landscapes.

Can you install edible gardens in Greater Portland, ME?

Absolutely. I design and install edible gardens throughout Greater Portland and the surrounding coastal communities. These gardens can include vegetables, culinary and medicinal herbs, and fruiting plants selected specifically for Maine’s growing season and coastal conditions. Wind exposure, salt air, soil quality, and sun patterns all influence how a productive garden is designed here, so each space is planned with those factors in mind.

What makes your garden services different from other landscapers in Portland, ME?

Unlike traditional landscaping companies, Skeleton Figure emphasizes sustainable practices, native plants, and gardens designed for long-term health. I don’t use synthetic chemicals or herbicides, and I work closely with you to create spaces that reflect your vision and values. It’s just me. You communicate simply through me and know that theres no space for information to get lost in transition.

Do you offer seasonal garden maintenance in Maine?

Yes. I offer seasonal garden maintenance throughout Cape Elizabeth and the surrounding coastal areas, including spring garden preparation, summer care, and fall cleanup. These visits focus on the practical work that keeps gardens functioning well—pruning, dividing, soil care, weeding, and general plant health.

Winter is also a good time to plan ahead. Many clients use the quieter season to review their gardens and make adjustments for the following spring.

The goal of ongoing maintenance is simply to keep gardens healthy, balanced, and manageable as they evolve over time.

What areas do you serve for garden and plant services?

I serve Greater Coastal ME, including South Portland, Cape Elizabeth, Scarborough, Falmouth, and surrounding towns. Coastal Maine is my comfort zone.

Do you work on islands or ferry-access locations?

Yes. I’m happy to take on island clients when scheduling allows. Because ferry access requires additional travel time and logistics, a flat island travel fee of $100 per visit is applied to these locations. This helps keep pricing straightforward and allows me to offer the same level of care and attention across all sites.