DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have a basic level of lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires more advanced skills. A large project might require heavy equipment and intense labor. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems need additional construction and machinery expertise.
You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds. However, if you don't have basic lawn expertise or if you want to do a total yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a landscaper.
Hiring a landscape designer or architect helps you avoid expensive mistakes. Professionals have the knowledge and skills to elevate your outdoor living space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help develop a long-term maintenance plan.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Cathedral City Landscaping Company
Hiring the right landscaping company involves finding one with enough experience that also meets your budget and service needs. Consider the following factors when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Consider your landscaping needs before choosing a provider. Some companies offer lawn care services—including mulching, fertilizing, mowing, pruning, and controlling weeds—to improve your yard health and maintenance. These companies often also provide pest control and tree clearing services.
You want a full-service landscaper for full-yard revamps or to install elements such as fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, or retaining walls. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including adding hardscapes, landscaping rock projects, and gardening. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.
Licensing and Experience
Landscapers often have advanced training and certification in areas such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. It may also have the following certified staff members:
- Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
- Licensed arborists
- Licensed horticulture specialists
- Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects
Reputation and Reviews
Try to find 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. Avoid companies that have frequent mentions of delayed projects, unreliable customer service, or poor project results, or that have generally poor reviews.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance contractors proudly share their completed projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping designs and projects. They might also provide before and after pictures to show the quality of their work. Ask about finished landscape designs similar to your planned project to get an idea of how it will look.
Sustainability Practices
A landscaping company's sustainability practices are essential. These include waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider should select plant life native to your area—such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry—for best results. The work on your property shouldn't affect existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and provide recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
Cost
You should request quotes from multiple companies—this lets you compare services and cost and may even help you negotiate a lower price. Many providers offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, talk about project plans, and provide recommendations. Your detailed quote will include information about various project costs, such as labor and materials.
Landscaping Costs in Cathedral City
In Cathedral City, you should expect to spend approximately $28–$42 for landscaping, depending on project type and size. Significant yard work like resodding will cost more than more straightforward tasks like mowing and gardening. Depending on the size of your yard, the company may charge by the acre. Large-scale projects require more labor, increasing the price. Pricing will also vary depending on your selected materials. Here's the average cost of common landscaping projects:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,728 - $16,970 |
Landscaping Design | $2,098 - $2,798 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $424 - $2,546 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $127 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $85 - $1,697 |
Planting Trees | $222 - $371 |
Sodding | $42 - $51 |
Swimming Pool | $32,249 - $84,867 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Cathedral City
What are warning signs of a bad landscaping company?
What are some benefits of landscaping?
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
What is a landscape designer?
How do I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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