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 require additional machinery and construction 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're planning a larger yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a landscaper.
Professional landscape architects and designers have the skill set to elevate your outdoor space and the knowledge to create a long-term maintenance plan. A local professional can identify the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who offers lawn care services can improve your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents you from making expensive mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Lincoln Landscaping Company
Consider factors such as your budget and service needs as well as a company's experience when choosing a landscaping company. Keep the following factors in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
It’s important to assess your landscaping needs before selecting a company. If you need assistance with yard health and maintenance, find one that offers lawn care services. These services can include mowing, controlling weeds, pruning, mulching, and fertilizing. Some companies provide additional pest control services and tree removal.
Look for a full-service landscaping company if you plan to revamp your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. They may also help install retaining walls, fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Your provider should possess the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. Contractors often also have advanced training and certification in areas such as horticulture, lawn maintenance, and outdoor design. 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
Reputation and Reviews
Look for companies with excellent reputations and positive customer experiences. Read about the company on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Explore both positive and negative reviews for each company to gauge how it treats its customers. Avoid companies with mainly negative customer reviews and frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, poor project results, or delayed projects.
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 designs and projects. They may also have 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 landscaper's sustainability practices are essential. These include eco-friendly material options, waste management, and water conservation. Your provider should choose native plant life—such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry—for best results. Any work completed on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. The company should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and provide recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
Cost
Request quotes from multiple companies to compare pricing and services. Most companies offer free consultations in which they'll review your outdoor space, provide recommendations, and discuss project ideas. Your detailed quote should outline project costs such as labor and materials. You can use this quote to compare companies and sometimes negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in Lincoln
Generally, landscaping costs $29–$43 per hour in Lincoln. These costs vary based on project size and type. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as mowing or gardening, will be less expensive than a larger project like resodding. Pricing can depend on your chosen materials. For a large yard, your provider may charge by the acre. Larger projects require more labor, which will increase the total price. The table below shows the average cost of different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,165 - $17,553 |
Landscaping Design | $2,178 - $2,903 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $429 - $2,574 |
Landscaping Mulch | $26 - $129 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $86 - $1,716 |
Planting Trees | $225 - $375 |
Sodding | $43 - $51 |
Swimming Pool | $32,607 - $85,809 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Lincoln
What are some 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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