Landscape design software is a specialized tool that allows homeowners, designers, and architects to create detailed and visually appealing outdoor spaces.
These programs provide a range of features, such as 2D and 3D design capabilities, plant libraries, hardscaping options, and terrain modeling.
With user-friendly interfaces and advanced features like virtual walkthroughs, lighting simulations, and seasonal plant growth visualization, the software simplifies the design process, enabling users to experiment with layouts, materials, and features before implementation.
Landscape design software is invaluable for planning gardens, patios, driveways, and large-scale landscaping projects, making it a vital resource for professionals and hobbyists alike.
In this article, we are going to list the best free landscape design software tool available online. All these landscape design software has been nominated the best by the users.
Who hasn't watched an episode of a home flipping or home renovation TV show and wanted to immediately find a contractor to help reimagine their living spaces indoors and outdoors?
Quick list:
- Sketch Free
- Gardena's My Garden
- Plan-A-Garden
- ISCAPE App
- DreamPlan Home Design
- Showoff.com
For Beginners
For beginners venturing into landscape design, several user-friendly software options can facilitate the creative process:
Planner 5D
This intuitive tool allows users to craft detailed 2D and 3D designs with a simple drag-and-drop interface. It's accessible across various platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, making it convenient for users to design on their preferred devices.
iScape
Ideal for mobile users, iScape is available on iPhone and Android devices. It enables users to visualize their outdoor projects by overlaying design elements onto real-world photos, providing an augmented reality experience that simplifies the planning process.
SketchUp Free
A versatile web-based application, SketchUp Free offers robust 3D modeling capabilities suitable for beginners. Its user-friendly interface and extensive library of pre-designed models assist users in bringing their landscape ideas to life.
SmartDraw
This software provides a vast selection of templates and symbols, aiding users in creating comprehensive landscape plans. Its intelligent formatting and integration with other tools like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace enhance its usability for novices.
DreamPlan
Offering both home and landscape design features, DreamPlan is known for its straightforward interface. It supports 3D modeling and includes a variety of objects and textures to experiment with different design concepts.
For Professionals
PRO Landscape+
This software integrates photo imaging, CAD design, 3D rendering, and a companion app, enabling designers to create accurate, scaled drawings with an extensive library of plant symbols, pavers, and other landscape elements.
DynaScape Design
Known for producing high-quality, hand-drawn-like designs, DynaScape offers precise 2D and 3D modeling capabilities. It includes a vast plant database and tools for labeling and material takeoffs, streamlining the design process for professionals.
Vectorworks Landmark
A BIM (Building Information Modeling) solution tailored for landscape design, Vectorworks Landmark allows for detailed 3D modeling, site analysis, and collaboration through support for over 20 different file formats, enhancing workflow efficiency.
AutoCAD
A versatile CAD software widely used in various design industries, AutoCAD provides robust tools for creating precise 2D and 3D drawings. Its flexibility and compatibility with numerous file formats make it a staple among landscape architecture professionals.
SketchUp Pro
Favored for its intuitive 3D modeling capabilities, SketchUp Pro allows designers to create detailed landscape models. It offers features like real-time shadows, flyovers, immersive walkthroughs, and access to a vast library of pre-built models, making it suitable for professional use.
According to anestwithayard.com, plans are a must for any landscape project. Pen and pencil can only get you so far. The landscape design software is designed specifically to help homeowners take their ideas and make them a fact.
Landscape design software is valuable for two reasons: it streamlines the design process and collaborates on projects and encourages realistic outdoor area representation.
Whether you're a Novice homeowner who wants to renovate their garden, or a skilled landscape architect, planner, or contractor, landscape design tools will help you forecast prices, digitize designs, and align with other online CAD software and BIM apps.
The best of the well-known landscape design solutions out there VizTerra, for starters, or the entire spectrum of Idea Range.
And best of all, many of those free programs either come in a mobile application type or are browser-based, which is handy when it comes to printing out or uploading landscape design plans online.
Free landscape design apps often provide identical-though much more restricted-functionality as professional software for landscape design.
Exposure to a catalogue or collection of books, hardscapes and plants is an excellent function that crops up in both free and paid editions.
Additionally, some of the free landscape design solutions featured in the list below even give access to landscapers and contractors ' materials producers and/or networks.
For each product we provide:
- an overview
- Highlighted features
- Free and paid options details
We have included:
- G2 Crowd star rating reviews for products with G2 Crowd
- verified user reviews highlighting what users like and dislike
- user recommendations for these considering the product
The list that we have outlined here includes any landscape design solution with a free offer available.
It should be remembered that this does not cover items that are only momentarily safe, for example, restricted preview options for new users.
We can only support one individual or one initiative, but they are services that are truly free. However, scaling often demands full investment.
Sketchup
SketchUp provides the tools to plan, develop, and make their designs a reality for artists, designers, builders, and engineers. SketchUp Free is SketchUp Pro's free, web-based Version. Users can draw 3D on any web browser with SketchUp Free.
The software also allows free SketchUp files to be exchanged and partnered with CAD project management platform Trimble Connect, project management, and collaboration application geared to the construction industry.
Landscape designers can leverage SketchUp Free to turn their initial models into a design file full of dimensions and context.
Free option:
- SketchUp free is a modelling tool based Web-browser version.
- SketchUp is also free for schools, but can only be downloaded via the G Suite for Education platform, and its files can only be stored on Google Drive.
Paid option
SketchUp Pro is the tool's software version; it is more efficient, more customizable, and more shareable. The non-expiring license costs $695, but you can try a free version.
Features
- 3D Modeling
- Trimble Connect
- Rendering
- Support for most Web browsers and operating systems
Pro Landscape, Free Landscape Design Software
PRO Landscape design program offers architects with digital modelling, Modelling, 3D visualization, and client application design tools to satisfy landscape design project specifications.
PRO Landscape Home is PRO Landscape's "light,"ย non-commercial edition for homeowners. PRO Landscape Home is a mobile application that can be used on both devices running IOS, Android, and Amazon.
Although the PRO Landscape Companion App is a free application, it is only free for those who have already downloaded the advanced program for designing landscapes.
Free version
PRO Landscape Home is the free, "lite"ย PRO Landscape version. For both iOS and Android, the Companion App is free to download. Nonetheless, for those who have already downloaded PRO Landscape, it is only optional.
Paid version
PRO Landscape: $1,496 Custom-quoted education pricing is eligible for PRO Landscape
Features
- Creation of photographic imaging and CAD designs
- the object image library
- Plant database lookup function "Find a Professional"ย
Kerkythea
Kerkythea is a free, open-source modelling software that allows users to create architectural models and drawings through a complete staging framework.
It was developed as a potent SketchUp plug-in. Kerkythea can be used by architecture practitioners as well as educational institutions, as consumers do not need to spend any money on licensing applications.
Free option
- Free to download
Paid option
- N/A
Features
- Provides a special framework for making Global lighting
- rendering engine
- Provides a catalogue of products, plants, photographs of the ecosystem
Showoff.com, Free Landscape Design Software
Showoff.com is a combination of an MLS real estate marketplace and a blog that has design tips and layouts on it.
The website provides an online service called the Visualizer that helps you design your dream house and garden and then provides tips and consultation for the Showoff.com community.
The Visualizer is a free application of software which can be mounted on Windows operating systems.
Free option
- Free via this download link.
Paid option
- N/A
Features
- Database of elements, photos, setups, and materials
- Community forum
Lands design
Lands Design is free software that releases a new beta version every 90 days, with feedback and update features and error fixing.
Lands Development is a plugin for 3D modelling technology Rhino to develop landscaping.
With Lands Design, landscape designers can build accurate 3D images, virtual tours to better represent their clients ' final environment, and draw on a large plant, treetop, and urban furniture collections.
Paid option
- Not available
Free option
- Only in Beta mode
Features
- Plant species database
- Freeform landscape modelling
- Virtual tour creator
- AutoCAD file supporting tool editing
Arborgold
Arborgold is a comprehensive solution for service-based businesses in customer management, job scheduling, and business management.
Recently, Arborgold rolled out a free online landscape design tool that allows customers to create 2D landscape designs to present them.
The free tool Arborgold can be used to create and save designs by both professionals and homeowners. Such plans can be added to comprehensive landscape ideas for practitioners.
Free option
- A free account can be requested at sales@arborgold.com.
Paid option
Arborgold's paying services go beyond simple solutions for landscape design; they are detailed solutions for operation/business management
- Sprout: $59/month
- Entrepreneur: $99/month
- Premium: $149/month
- Ultimate: $179/month
Features
- Job site illustrations
- Library of plants, lighting, and hardscape
- Import of photos and geo-satellite images
- Freehand drawing
Plan a Garden
Plan-a-Garden is the online space planning tool for Better Homes & Garden, targeted to homeowners and interior planners from DIY.
This is counted among the best free landscape design software tools. Plan-a-Garden allows you to imagine the dreams for remodelling before turning them over to a skilled contractor.
Free Choice
- Online browser-based application
Paid Alternative
- N / A
Compatibility
- Plant and Hardcover website
Garden Planner
Garden Planner is an easy to use tool for the garden and landscape design. It provides a drag-and-drop interface for users to help arrange the visual elements of your design.
The design platform for Garden Planner is versatile and facilitates a simulated walkaround 3D ride.
Free option
- There is a free license for charities, for non-profits and for schools.
Paid option
- One-time fee of $46
Features
- Plant catalogue and entity symbols
- Drag-and-drop GUI
- Enables field notes
- Free future updates
iScape App
iScape is an application designing landscapes that help homeowners, professionals, and product retailers design and collaborate in the design of living spaces.
You will imagine the end product specifically with iScape before embarking on any landscape design ventures. Currently, iScape is only available via iOS.
Free option
- Free iOS device, can allow purchases made in-app.
Paid option
- Not applicable
Features
- Easy to use design tools
- Sharing capabilities Image, plant and materials database
- Provides inventory availability via iScape partners
Best Free Landscape Design Software Tools in 2025
DreamPlan Home Design is a software for home and landscape design that helps homeowners and professionals visualize completed designs before redesigning. DreamPlan embraces home and floor designs, landscape and garden plans, and interior design plans for the house. DreamPlan provides users with a user-friendly interface, which makes drafting designs easy for anyone at any skill level.
Free version
- Free for all
Paid version
- It is available for $40
Features
- Blueprint view mode 3D and 2D rendering
- Supports both Windows and Mac operating systems
Marshalls
Marshalls provides the UK with landscape goods, especially paving items and accessories. Counted as the best free landscape design software, the site offers an online tool for the design of landscapes: Marshalls Garden Visualizer. Landscape Visualizer offers a downloadable landscape planner for consumers.
Free option
- This link is free to download but only on Firefox or Safari browsers.
Paid option
- N/A
Features
- Easy
- 3D visualization Catalog of paving goods and materials
- The network of licensed installers
Terragen
Terragen allows the design, creation, and animation of true, natural surroundings. Terragen's most applications are for the production of TV and film, as well as for visual effects. And while Terragen is a touch more robust since it is a practical, natural environment rendering tool than other applications for landscape design, users are encouraged to bring photorealistic landscapes into whatever design you make.
Free version
- There is a free licensing option available for educational use, at registrations@planetside.co.uk upon request.
Paid version
- Terragen 4 Creative: $349
- Terragen 4 Professional: $699
Features
- Realistic environment interface
- Realistic lighting uses item creation by the terrain editor
Designer Buddy
Designer Buddy is a free software building open source landscape. It is built on top of the OpenOffice Draw software, which allows for the incorporation of landscape photographs into 2D drawings. OpenOffice Draw is one of the OpenOffice modules of Apache, which allows simple diagrams and dynamic 3D illustrations to be produced.
Free option
- Free to download
Paid option
- N/A
Features
- The ability to scale
- Layers (similar to Photoshop)
- Library of plants, hardscapes, and materials
Fully free solutions not just software that offers free trials or demos are scarce for both professional landscape designers and homeowners who have a landscape design itch. If you are willing to go barebones, however, the aforementioned free landscape design tools are useful for the early stages of your landscape design journey.
Prepare yourself for just what your specifications are, whether you want collaboration features, and which integrations or third-party apps help such free tools. If you recognize the items "must-have,"ย "easy-to-have,"ย and "do "โ not-need,"ย you will be in a very good position to narrow down the options and choose the best free environment.
FAQs
What features should I prioritize when selecting landscape design software?
Look for features like:
- 3D modeling and rendering to visualize designs realistically.
- Plant libraries with region-specific information.
- Hardscaping tools for paths, patios, and walls.
- Terrain modeling for elevation and grading work.
- Integration options with CAD or BIM software for seamless collaboration.
- Cost estimation tools for budgeting.
- Cloud compatibility for easy sharing and backups.
How can landscape design software improve my workflow?
Landscape design software enhances efficiency by automating tasks like:
- Generating accurate 2D and 3D models.
- Simplifying material takeoffs and cost estimations.
- Providing templates and pre-built libraries to reduce design time.
- Offering tools for client presentations, such as virtual walkthroughs.
- Streamlining collaboration through file sharing and integration with other platforms.
Can I use landscape design software for commercial projects?
Yes, many software options like DynaScape, Vectorworks Landmark, and AutoCAD are designed to handle large-scale commercial projects. They provide advanced tools for zoning, irrigation planning, and urban landscaping, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Do I need a powerful computer to run professional landscape design software?
Most professional-grade software has higher system requirements. Ensure your computer has:
- A fast processor (e.g., Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen 7).
- At least 16GB of RAM (32GB for large projects).
- A dedicated graphics card (e.g., NVIDIA GTX 1660 or higher).
- Adequate storage space (SSD recommended).
Is training required to use professional landscape design software?
While some software, like SketchUp Pro, is user-friendly, others like AutoCAD or Vectorworks may require training due to their complexity.
Can I customize designs for different climates and regions?
Yes, most professional software includes region-specific plant libraries and tools for climate-based adjustments. You can customize designs to suit local weather conditions, soil types, and vegetation zones.
Does landscape design software support collaboration with other professionals?
Yes, software like Vectorworks Landmark and AutoCAD supports collaboration by offering:
- File-sharing capabilities with various formats (DWG, DXF, etc.).
- Cloud-based tools for remote collaboration.
- Real-time updates for team projects.
Can I present my designs to clients using the software?
Professional software often includes client presentation features like:
- Virtual walkthroughs.
- High-resolution renderings.
- Interactive 3D models.
- Augmented reality (AR) views (e.g., in iScape or PRO Landscape).
How do I calculate project costs using the software?
Many tools, such as PRO Landscape and DynaScape, have built-in cost estimation features. These allow you to:
- Input material prices.
- Calculate quantities.
- Generate detailed estimates for labor and resources.
Is there software specific to irrigation and drainage planning?
Yes, specialized tools like RainCAD and features in AutoCAD Civil 3D support irrigation and drainage design. They allow for:
- Efficient layout of sprinkler systems.
- Calculation of water flow and coverage.
- Compliance with environmental regulations.
Designing outdoor kitchens as a landscaping project in software
Dedicated Outdoor Kitchen Libraries
Most professional and even beginner-friendly software includes pre-designed modules for outdoor kitchens, such as:
- Grills and cooking stations.
- Countertops and islands.
- Storage units and cabinets.
- Pizza ovens and smokers.
- Seating areas, bar setups, and outdoor dining tables.
Examples:
- SketchUp Pro offers a vast library of outdoor kitchen components via its 3D Warehouse.
- PRO Landscape includes a database of kitchen appliances and fixtures designed for outdoor use.
Material and Finish Customization
It often require materials suited for outdoor exposure, such as stainless steel, granite, or concrete. Software tools allow you to:
- Apply realistic textures to surfaces.
- Experiment with color schemes and finishes.
- Choose weather-resistant materials.
Example: Vectorworks Landmark allows advanced material specification and visualization for kitchen components.
Integration with Hardscaping
Kitchens are often part of a patio, deck, or other hardscape design. These software options integrate kitchen layouts with:
- Flooring materials like pavers, tiles, or concrete.
- Surrounding features like fire pits, pergolas, and lighting systems.
Example: DynaScape Design seamlessly incorporates Kitchens into larger hardscape plans.
Realistic Visualization
High-end tools let you present Kitchen designs in detail, showing:
- Appliance placement.
- Counter heights and workspace ergonomics.
- Traffic flow and spatial arrangement.
- 3D walkthroughs and lighting effects for nighttime ambiance.
Example: Lumion (when used alongside SketchUp or AutoCAD) excels at rendering lifelike kitchen scenes with lighting and textures.
Appliance Specifications and Vendor Options
Some software includes databases of branded appliances and fixtures, making it easier to:
- Select and size grills, refrigerators, and sinks.
- Ensure accurate scaling and compatibility with designs.
- Generate material lists for construction.
Example: PRO Landscape and Planner 5D offer vendor-specific options to design with real-world products.
Outdoor Utility Planning
Kitchens require planning for utilities like:
- Gas lines.
- Electrical outlets for appliances.
- Plumbing for sinks and water features.
Advanced software like AutoCAD Civil 3D or Vectorworks Landmark can include these utilities in site plans, ensuring compliance with building codes.
Client Presentation and Customization
Client-focused features like augmented reality (AR) and 3D walkthroughs help clients visualize:
- How their kitchen will fit into the overall space.
- Different configurations for appliances, seating, and finishes.
Example: iScape is particularly effective for showing designs in real-world settings using AR.
In conclusion, landscape design software has revolutionized the way we approach outdoor space planning, offering powerful tools for both professionals and beginners.
Whether you're designing a simple garden or a sprawling estate with an kitchen, these software solutions provide the flexibility, precision, and creativity needed to bring your visions to life.
With features that range from 3D modeling to realistic visualizations and seamless collaboration, the right landscape design software can help you save time, reduce errors, and impress clients with stunning, functional outdoor spaces.
As technology continues to evolve, the possibilities for landscape design are endless"โempowering designers to push the boundaries of creativity while maintaining efficiency and practicality.