10 Best Landscaping Companies Near Me - Top Rated Landscaping Pros (2024)

DIY vs. Professional Services

Full-scale landscaping projects require heavy lifting, pricey materials, and specific equipment that most homeowners don’t own. Complex installations, including irrigation systems or sprinklers, must be left to a professional. If you’re interested in do-it-yourself (DIY) landscaping, focus on small-scale projects such as adding a flower bed, placing a small patio set in your backyard, or installing outdoor lighting. You can also complete basic lawn maintenance such as pruning, mowing, or other yard cleanup to improve your curb appeal.

Consider a professional landscaping company if you lack basic lawn maintenance skills or want a large-scale yard design. These companies employ landscape architects and designers to revamp your outdoor space. Plans could include adding decorative elements, incorporating new flowers and plants, or installing walkways, water features, or even a deck. These companies provide high-quality upgrades and could help you reduce the cost of future landscape maintenance.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Landscaping Company Near You

Factors including costs, services, and company reputation will impact your search for the right landscaper. Keep the following factors in mind during your search.

Services Offered

Landscaping companies offer numerous services targeted to different homeowner needs. Landscape maintenance companies help with lawn services, such as mowing, mulching, weed control, and pest services. They may also provide additional services, such as tree trimming and removal. These companies focus only on lawn care and maintenance.

Full-service landscaping companies help homeowners upgrade their entire outdoor living space. They specialize in full-scale upgrades of plant life, gardening, softscapes, hardscapes, and lighting. These contractors could add water features, retaining walls, pavers, and other architectural elements to your yard. Some companies help with both lawn care and landscaping needs.

Licensing and Insurance

Landscape contractors hold certifications and licenses in several areas, such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. In addition to a general landscaping contractor license, company staff may also include the following certified professionals:

• Certified fertilization professionals
• Certified pesticide specialists
• Licensed arborists
• Licensed horticulture specialists
• Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects

Some contractors carry optional certification from professional organizations, including the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network.

Look for landscaping companies that are fully insured and bonded. Typical insurance coverage includes liability coverage that protects you against property damage or bodily harm. The company would cover any damages that occur on your property. We recommend requesting a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers from each potential company.

Reputation and Reviews

Look for companies with trustworthy reputations and excellent customer experiences. Check third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau for positive and negative reviews. Look for reviews that mention customer service experiences, interactions with contractors, project issues, or communication problems. We recommend avoiding companies with numerous negative reviews and low-star ratings. You can also get recommendations from friends, family, and neighbors.

Work Portfolio

Request pictures of the company’s previous projects to gauge its work quality. Portfolios should include before and after pictures and project details. Request pictures of projects similar to your plans to get an idea of the finished look. Reviewing portfolios will also give you a fresh perspective on your own plans and may inspire new design ideas.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability should be a priority for any landscaping company. Common best practices include choosing native plant life, conserving water usage, and minimizing waste.

The company’s main objective should be preserving your yard’s overall health. For example, using tree services and yard upgrades that preserve the surrounding environment and don’t cause lasting damage. Landscape designs should also include cost-effective options that focus on long-term water conservation and eco-friendly materials.

Cost

We recommend getting quotes from multiple companies before making a final decision. Most companies offer free consultations to new customers. Representatives will review your yard, take measurements, and check your current design. You’ll then review outdoor space plans and get recommendations for any upgrades or additions. Finally, you’ll receive a quote for your project with details on material, labor, and supply costs.

You should compare each quote and select the company that best suits your needs and budget. Consider using your quoted offers to help negotiate a lower price.

How Much Does Landscaping Cost?

Landscaping costs an average of $50–$65 per hour, according to Thumbtack. These prices don’t include materials or labor. Lawn care and maintenance services have the lowest costs. Prices will increase significantly as you move into more complicated landscaping designs and upgrades. For example, landscape curbing costs around $550, while installing a water fountain costs over $14,000.

Landscapers may charge by the acre for massive yard revamps. Material quality will impact project costs, especially when choosing high-quality options for paths, landscape rocks, or fire pits. Large-scale landscaping projects also require more time and labor, increasing your total.