DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Most homeowners have at least basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. A large project might require intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as irrigation systems and fire pits need additional machinery and construction expertise.
You can complete some landscaping projects on your own. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. However, you should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a complete yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you don't have the needed expertise.
Hiring a landscape designer or architect helps prevent you from making costly mistakes. Professionals have the knowledge and skills to elevate your outdoor space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a long-term maintenance plan.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Pasadena Landscaping Company
Choosing the right landscaper involves finding one with the right experience that also fits your service needs and budget. Consider the following factors when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Different landscaping providers cater to different lawn needs. Some companies focus on services to help with yard health and maintenance, such as mowing, mulching, pruning, fertilizing, and controlling weeds. These providers also often offer pest control and tree removal services.
Choose a full-service landscaping company 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 landscaping rock projects, adding hardscapes, and gardening. They may also help install retaining walls, fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and other architectural elements. Some offer lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as horticulture, lawn maintenance, and outdoor design. Companies should have the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. It may have 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
We recommend checking 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 choose a company with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Many landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share photos of previously completed projects with prospective customers. Request to see a portfolio of landscaping projects and designs, ideally ones that are similar to your own ideas. Companies often have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.
Sustainability Practices
Ask your landscaper about their sustainability practices, including water conservation, waste management, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider can explain its own sustainability practices and provide recommendations for sustainable maintenance, including how to reduce cost, water consumption, and waste. When planting vegetation, your landscaper should select native area plants, such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry. Any work they complete shouldn't have an impact on your existing vegetation.
Cost
You should request multiple quotes from different companies. This lets you compare rates and services and may even help you negotiate a better deal. Many companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, discuss project plans, and make recommendations. Your detailed quote should include information about various project expenses, such as materials and labor.
Landscaping Costs in Pasadena
In Pasadena, you can expect to pay roughly $28–$42 for landscaping, depending on project size and type. Significant yard work like resodding will cost more than more straightforward tasks like gardening and mowing. Depending on the size of your yard, the company may charge by the acre. Large-scale projects require more labor, which will increase the cost. Pricing will also depend on your selected materials. The table below breaks down the average cost of different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,943 - $17,257 |
Landscaping Design | $2,114 - $2,819 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $425 - $2,552 |
Landscaping Mulch | $26 - $128 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $85 - $1,701 |
Planting Trees | $223 - $372 |
Sodding | $43 - $51 |
Swimming Pool | $32,321 - $85,055 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Pasadena
What are 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 do I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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