Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Berkeley, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Most homeowners have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires more advanced skills. A large project might require heavy equipment and intense labor. Complicated projects such as irrigation systems and fire pits need additional machinery and construction expertise.

You can complete some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. You should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a total yard overhaul, or smaller projects for which you don't have the needed expertise.

Hiring a landscape architect or designer helps prevent you from making expensive mistakes. These professionals have the knowledge and skills to elevate your outdoor space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a long-term maintenance plan.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Berkeley Landscaping Company

Selecting the right landscaping company involves finding one with enough experience that also fits your budget and service needs. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.

Services Offered

You should know what services you need before choosing a company. Some companies offer lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services may include mulching, pruning, controlling weeds, fertilizing, and mowing. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.

You want a full-service landscaper if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, or retaining walls. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.

Licensing and Experience

Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. Most contractors also have advanced training and certification in areas such as horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Your provider may have the following certified members on staff:

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

It might also hold certifications from professional organizations, including the Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. These certifications are not mandatory but can add to a provider's credibility. Landscaping contractors should have liability insurance for protection against bodily injury or property damage. Any provider you hire should be fully insured and bonded. Request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to confirm coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

You want a contractor who has an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. Read both positive and negative reviews on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau in order to get a feel for how a provider treats its customers. You want to avoid providers that have frequent mentions of delayed projects, unreliable customer service, or poor project results, or that have overall poor reviews.

Work Portfolio

Ask to see a portfolio of your landscaping company's previous work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are proud to share projects and designs with potential customers, including before and after photos. Ask to see photos of past projects that are similar to your design ideas so that you can get a picture of how yours will look.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability practices might include water conservation, eco-friendly material options, and waste management, and they're an important consideration when selecting a landscaper. Landscaping work on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Additionally, your landscaper should choose native plants, such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry. Ask your contractor about sustainability practices for projects like yours, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.

Cost

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

Landscaping Costs in Berkeley

In Berkeley, you can expect to spend around $34–$51 for landscaping, depending on project type and size. Significant yard work like resodding will cost more than more straightforward tasks such as gardening and mowing. Bigger projects need more labor, which will increase the final cost. Depending on the size of your yard, the company might charge by the acre. The cost will also be influenced by the materials you choose. Here's the average cost of common landscaping projects:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$13,650 - $18,199
Landscaping Design	$2,561 - $3,415
Landscaping LandGrading	$452 - $2,711
Landscaping Mulch	$27 - $136
Planting FlowerBeds	$90 - $1,807
Planting Trees	$237 - $395
Sodding	$45 - $54
Swimming Pool	$34,336 - $90,358