Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Riverside, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Most homeowners have at least basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires more advanced skills. Large projects may require intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as irrigation systems and fire pits require additional machinery and construction expertise.

You can do some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. You should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a complete yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you lack the needed expertise.

Hiring a landscape architect or designer helps you avoid costly mistakes. These 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 Riverside Landscaping Company

Selecting the right landscaping company depends on several factors, such as your budget, your service needs, and the company’s experience. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.

Services Offered

Consider your landscaping needs before choosing a company. Some providers offer lawn care services—such as mulching, controlling weeds, pruning, mowing, and fertilizing—to help with your yard health and maintenance. These companies often also offer pest control and tree removal services.

You need a full-service landscaper 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 landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some provide lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.

Licensing and Experience

Your landscaper should possess the appropriate licenses 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 have 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. Your landscaping contractor should be fully bonded and insured; most providers have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury. Request an insurance certificate or insurance numbers to confirm a company's coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

We suggest checking third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to gauge a company's reputation and customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, delayed projects, or poor project results. Try to select a provider with positive customer ratings.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share completed projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping designs and projects. They may also provide before and after pictures to show off their quality work. Request finished landscape designs similar to your project to get a better idea of how it will look.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability practices might include water conservation, eco-friendly material options, and waste management, and they're an important consideration when hiring a landscaper. Landscaping work done on your property shouldn't impact your current vegetation. Additionally, your landscaper should choose native plants, such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry. Ask your contractor about sustainability practices for your project, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.

Cost

Request multiple quotes from different to compare pricing and services. Most companies offer free consultations in which they'll review your outdoor space, provide recommendations, and go over project ideas. A detailed quote should outline project costs such as labor and materials. You can use a quote to compare your options and sometimes negotiate a better deal.

Landscaping Costs in Riverside

Generally, landscaping costs $28–$42 per hour in Riverside. These figures vary based on project type and size. Less complicated work, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than a larger project like resodding. Depending on the size of your yard, your provider may charge by the acre. Larger or more complex projects require more labor, which will increase the cost. Pricing will also depend on your selected materials. Here's the average cost of common landscaping projects:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,728 - $16,970
Landscaping Design	$2,098 - $2,798
Landscaping LandGrading	$424 - $2,546
Landscaping Mulch	$25 - $127
Planting FlowerBeds	$85 - $1,697
Planting Trees	$222 - $371
Sodding	$42 - $51
Swimming Pool	$32,249 - $84,867