Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Fresno, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills. However, more specialized knowledge is needed for landscaping. Full-scale landscaping employs heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as irrigation systems or fire pits, need construction and machinery experience as well.

You can handle some landscaping projects on your own. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. However, you should hire a professional landscaper for things like a total yard overhaul, or smaller projects for which you lack the needed expertise. Professional landscape designers and architects have the skills to elevate your outdoor space and the knowledge to create a long-term maintenance plan. A local professional can help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who offers lawn care services can enhance your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents expensive DIY mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Fresno Landscaping Company

Finding the right landscaper involves finding one with good experience that also meets your budget and service needs. Consider the following factors when hiring a landscaping contractor.

• Services Offered

  Assess your landscaping needs before choosing a provider. If you need assistance with yard health and maintenance, you’ll need a company offering lawn care services. These services may include fertilizing, mowing, controlling weeds, mulching, and pruning. Some companies offer additional pest control and tree removal services. You want a full-service landscaping company if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as retaining walls, fire pits, or sprinkler or irrigation systems. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including gardening, adding hardscapes, and landscaping rock projects. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.

• Licensing and Experience

  Landscape contractors often have advanced training and certification in areas such as horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. It might also 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 contractors have liability insurance to protect against property damage or bodily injury. Request an insurance certificate or insurance numbers to confirm a company's coverage.

• Reputation and Reviews

  Look for a contractor who gets good reviews from customers. You can check third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to verify that a company has a good reputation and provides a positive customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including reviews that frequently mention unreliable customer service, delayed projects, or poor project results.

• Work Portfolio

  Most landscaping and maintenance contractors proudly share their finished projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping projects and designs. They may also provide before and after pictures to show the quality of their work. Ask about completed landscape designs similar to your project to get an idea of how it will look.

• Sustainability Practices

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

• Cost

  You should request quotes from multiple companies—this lets you compare rates and services and might even help you negotiate a better deal. Many providers offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, talk about project plans, and make recommendations. Your detailed quote will include information about various project expenses, such as materials and labor.