Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Palo Alto, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

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

You can handle some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, are easier to DIY. However, you should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a total yard overhaul, or smaller projects for which you don't have the needed expertise.

Professional landscape designers and architects have the right knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and create long-term landscape maintenance plans. Contractors that offer lawn care services can help you improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making expensive mistakes doing it on your own.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Palo Alto Landscaping Company

Reputation and experience are important considerations when hiring a landscaper, but you also want to ensure that your provider offers the services you need within your budget. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.

Services Offered

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

Choose full-service landscaping if you plan to revamp your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. Full-service companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including gardening, adding hardscapes, and landscaping rock projects. They can also help install retaining walls, fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Companies should possess the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. Your provider may have the following certified staff members:

• Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
• Licensed arborists
• Licensed horticulture specialists
• Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects

It may also hold 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. Request a certificate of insurance or a company's insurance numbers before starting a project. All landscaping companies should be insured and bonded. Contractors will typically have liability insurance to protect against bodily injury or property damage.

Reputation and Reviews

Look for companies with positive customer reviews and strong reputations. Read about the company on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Read negative and positive reviews to gauge how a provider treats its customers. Be wary of companies with mostly negative customer reviews and frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance companies will have before and after photos of past projects to demonstrate the quality of their work. Ask to see your provider's portfolio. You can specifically ask to see other projects similar to yours, to see how yours might look and even get some inspiration.

Sustainability Practices

A landscaping company's sustainability practices are essential. These include water conservation, waste management, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider should implement plant life native to your area—such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry—for best results. The work done on your property shouldn't impact existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise of any sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.

Cost

You should request multiple quotes from different companies—this allows you to compare rates and services and may even help you negotiate a lower price. Many providers offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, discuss project plans, and provide recommendations. Your detailed quote should include information about various project expenses, such as materials and labor.

Landscaping Costs in Palo Alto

Generally, landscaping costs $33–$50 per hour in Palo Alto. These costs vary based on project size and type. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as mowing or gardening, will cost less than a larger project like resodding. Bigger projects necessitate more labor, which increases the total cost. Depending on your yard's size, your provider may charge by the acre. The price will also be influenced by the materials you choose. Here's the average cost of different landscaping services:

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