Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Bakersfield, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

You likely have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires advanced skills, heavy equipment, and intense labor. More complicated projects, such as adding an irrigation system or fire pit, also necessitate construction and machinery experience.

You can complete some landscaping projects on your own. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, are easier to DIY. You should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a complete yard overhaul, or smaller projects for which you lack the needed expertise.

Hiring a landscape designer or architect helps you avoid expensive mistakes. These professionals have the skills and know-how to elevate your outdoor living space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help develop a plan for long-term maintenance.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Bakersfield Landscaping Company

Choosing the right landscaping company depends on several factors, such as your budget, your service needs, and the company’s experience. Consider the following factors when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Have an idea of what services you need before choosing a company. Some companies provide lawn care services focused on yard health and maintenance. These services might include mowing, pruning, fertilizing, mulching, and controlling weeds. Many also offer pest control and tree removal services.

A full-service landscaping company is the way to go if you're planning to revamp your entire yard or install architectural elements such as retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and fire pits. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, such as landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some might also provide lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Your landscaping company should possess the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. Contractors often also have advanced training and certification in areas such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Your provider might employ the following certified staff members:

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

It might also have certifications from professional organizations, including the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network. While not mandatory, these certifications are an added bonus. Your landscaping contractor should be fully insured and bonded. Most providers have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury. Ask to see an insurance certificate or insurance numbers to verify a company's coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

Seek out companies with positive customer reviews and strong reputations. Read about the company on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Explore both positive and negative reviews to gauge how a provider treats its customers. Be wary of companies with mostly negative reviews and frequent mentions of delayed projects, unreliable customer service, or poor project results.

Work Portfolio

Many landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share photos of previously completed projects with prospective customers. Ask to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, preferably ones that are similar to the ideas you have for your yard. Companies often have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.

Sustainability Practices

A landscaping company's sustainability practices are essential. These include eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management. Your provider should select plant life native to your area—such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry—for best results. Any work completed on your property shouldn't affect existing vegetation. The company should advise of any sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.

Cost

You should request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best pricing and services. Most companies provide free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and review project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including labor and materials. You may wish to use competing quotes to help negotiate a better price.

Landscaping Costs in Bakersfield

Landscaping in Bakersfield generally costs between $29 and $44 per hour. These prices depend on things such as project size and type. Bigger projects, such as resodding, will cost more than simple lawn tasks like gardening or mowing. Depending on your yard size, your provider may charge by the acre. Larger or more complex projects require more labor, increasing the project total. Pricing will also depend on your selected materials. Here's the average cost of common landscaping projects:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,298 - $16,397
Landscaping Design	$2,232 - $2,976
Landscaping LandGrading	$432 - $2,594
Landscaping Mulch	$26 - $130
Planting FlowerBeds	$86 - $1,729
Planting Trees	$227 - $378
Sodding	$43 - $52
Swimming Pool	$32,853 - $86,455