Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Modesto, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Many homeowners have at least basic 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.

Do-it-yourself (DIY) landscaping can work for smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed. However, you should consider hiring a professional landscaper if you’re doing a total yard overhaul or lack basic lawn expertise.

Professional landscape architects and designers have the skills to elevate your outdoor space and the knowledge to develop a long-term maintenance plan. A professional can help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who also offers lawn care services can enhance your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents you from making expensive mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Modesto Landscaping Company

Finding the right landscaping company involves finding one with good experience that also meets your service needs and budget. Consider the following factors when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Different landscaping providers serve different lawn needs. Some providers focus on services to help with your yard's health and maintenance, such as mowing, pruning, mulching, fertilizing, and controlling weeds. These providers also often offer pest control and tree removal services.

You need a full-service landscaping company for full-yard revamps or to install elements such as retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, or fire pits. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including gardening, adding hardscapes, and landscaping rock projects. Some provide lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.

Licensing and Experience

Your landscaping company 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, 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

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

Reputation and Reviews

We recommend using third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to get an idea of a company's customer experience and overall reputation. Stay away from companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, delayed projects, or poor project results. Try to select a company with positive customer ratings.

Work Portfolio

Many landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share photos of previous projects with prospective customers. Ask to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, ideally ones similar to the ideas you have for your yard. Companies often have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability practices are essential for any landscaper. These practices include waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options. Landscaping contractors should use native plant life—such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry—for best results. Any work on your property shouldn't impact existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise of any sustainability practices for your project and provide recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.

Cost

Homeowners should request quotes from multiple companies to learn about pricing and services. Most companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and go over project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote outlining your project costs, including labor and materials. You may wish to use competing quotes to negotiate a better price.

Landscaping Costs in Modesto

Generally, landscaping costs $29–$44 per hour in Modesto. These figures vary based on project type and size. 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 larger yard, your provider might charge by the acre. Large or complex projects necessitate more labor, which will increase the total price. The table below breaks down the average cost of different landscaping services:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,704 - $16,939
Landscaping Design	$2,228 - $2,970
Landscaping LandGrading	$432 - $2,592
Landscaping Mulch	$26 - $130
Planting FlowerBeds	$86 - $1,728
Planting Trees	$226 - $378
Sodding	$43 - $52
Swimming Pool	$32,832 - $86,401