Best 5 Landscaping Companies in La Mesa, 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 intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems require additional machinery and construction expertise.

You can do some landscaping projects on your own. 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 lack the needed expertise.

Professional landscape architects and designers can not only enhance your lawn but can also recommend cost-effective upgrades and help develop a long-term maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and expertise to elevate your outdoor living space. Contactors that offer lawn care services can improve your lawn's health and prevent you from making costly mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an La Mesa Landscaping Company

You should consider factors such as your services needs and budget as well as a company's experience when selecting a landscaper. Keep the following factors in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.

Services Offered

Consider your landscaping needs before choosing a provider. Some providers offer lawn care services—such as pruning, fertilizing, controlling weeds, mowing, and mulching—to help with your yard health and maintenance. These companies often also offer pest control and tree clearing services.

A full-service landscaping company is your best option if you want to revamp your whole yard or install architectural elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, and fire pits. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, such as gardening, adding hardscapes, and landscaping rock projects. Some might also offer lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Landscapers often have advanced training and certification in areas such as horticulture, lawn maintenance, and outdoor design. Your provider should have the appropriate licenses 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 Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. While not mandatory, these certifications show a contractor's commitment to their profession. Ask to see a certificate of insurance or a company's insurance numbers before beginning a project. All landscaping companies should be bonded and insured. Contractors will typically have liability insurance for protection against bodily injury or property damage.

Reputation and Reviews

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

Work Portfolio

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

Sustainability Practices

Ask your landscaper about their sustainability practices, such as eco-friendly material options, waste management, and water conservation. Your provider should be able to explain its own sustainability practices and give you recommendations for sustainable maintenance, including how to reduce cost, waste, and water consumption. When planting vegetation, the company should select plants native to your area, such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry. Any work completed shouldn't affect your existing vegetation.

Cost

Request multiple quotes from different to compare pricing and services. Most landscapers offer free consultations where they'll review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and discuss project ideas. Your detailed quote should outline project costs such as labor and materials. You can use a quote to compare your options and sometimes negotiate a better deal.

Landscaping Costs in La Mesa

Landscaping in La Mesa generally costs between $27 and $40 per hour. These prices depend on things such as project type and size. Bigger projects like resodding will cost more than simple lawn tasks like gardening or mowing. Bigger projects require more labor, which increases the total cost. Depending on your yard's size, your provider may 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	$13,206 - $17,608
Landscaping Design	$2,028 - $2,704
Landscaping LandGrading	$420 - $2,521
Landscaping Mulch	$25 - $126
Planting FlowerBeds	$84 - $1,681
Planting Trees	$220 - $367
Sodding	$42 - $50
Swimming Pool	$31,932 - $84,032