DIY Options vs. Professional Services
While many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills, more specialized knowledge is required for landscaping. Full-scale landscaping employs intense labor and heavy equipment. More complex elements, such as irrigation systems or fire pits, need construction and machinery experience as well.
Do-it-yourself (DIY) landscaping is good for smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants. However, you should consider hiring a professional landscaping contractor if you’re completing a yard overhaul or don’t have basic lawn 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 knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. Contactors that offer lawn care services can improve your lawn's health and help you avoid costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Morgan Hill Landscaping Company
Hiring the right landscaping company involves finding one with the right experience that also fits your service needs and budget. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Know what services you need before picking a provider. Some companies provide lawn care services that focus on yard health and maintenance. These services might include fertilizing, mowing, pruning, mulching, and controlling weeds. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaper is the way to go if you're planning to revamp your entire yard or install architectural elements such as retaining walls, fire pits, and sprinkler or irrigation systems. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, such as landscaping rock projects, adding hardscapes, and gardening. Some also provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Your landscaper should hold the appropriate licensure from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. Most contractors also have advanced training and certification in areas such as lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. Your provider may have the following certified members on staff:
- Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
- Licensed arborists
- Licensed horticulture specialists
- Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects
Reputation and Reviews
Look for companies with positive customer reviews and strong reputations. Check third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Explore both negative and positive reviews for each company to gauge how it treats its customers. Be wary of companies with mainly negative reviews and frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies have before and after photos of previously completed projects to demonstrate the quality of their work. Request your provider's portfolio. You can specifically ask for photos of projects similar to yours, to see how yours might look and even get some inspiration.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices might include waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation, and they're an important consideration when hiring a landscaping company. Landscaping work done on your property shouldn't impact your existing 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 to learn about services and pricing. Most companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and review project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including materials and labor. You can use competing quotes to negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Morgan Hill
Landscaping typically costs $33–$50 per hour in Morgan Hill, depending on project size and type. Simple tasks like mowing or gardening are less expensive than significant yard work, such as resodding. Pricing will vary based on your chosen materials. For a bigger yard, your provider may charge by the acre. Bigger projects require more labor, which will increase the total cost. The table below breaks down the average cost of common landscaping projects:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,981 - $18,641 |
Landscaping Design | $2,521 - $3,361 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $449 - $2,696 |
Landscaping Mulch | $27 - $135 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $90 - $1,797 |
Planting Trees | $235 - $393 |
Sodding | $45 - $54 |
Swimming Pool | $34,152 - $89,873 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Morgan Hill
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Is a landscaper the same as a gardener?
What is a landscape designer?
How can I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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