Dear Angie: We're in the process of choosing a sprinkler company. Which should be done first - the landscaping or the sprinklers? The footprint for all the sprinklers is already there (lawn, beds etc.) The sprinkler company wants to do the job after the landscaping is done so the lines won't be damaged, but the landscaper wants the sprinklers installed first so they won't damage the plantings and so that they can water immediately. I don't know what to do. – Natalie J., Stamford, Conn.

Dear Natalie: Do the landscaping first. The landscapers could cause damage to the irrigation lines while digging. Plus, your irrigation contractor should know what type of landscaping he or she will be dealing with before suggesting the correct system and layout of sprinkler heads.