Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Salinas, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Most homeowners have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. A large project might require intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems require additional machinery and construction expertise.

You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds. However, if you don't have basic lawn expertise or if you want to do a total yard overhaul, consider hiring a landscaping contractor.

Professional landscape architects and designers can enhance your lawn, recommend the most cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. Contactors that offer lawn care services can improve the health of your lawn and prevent you from making costly mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Salinas Landscaping Company

Aim to hire a landscaper that offers the services you need at a reasonable price. You also want to know that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following factors in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Have an idea of what services you need before picking a company. Some companies offer lawn care services focused on yard health and maintenance. These services might include fertilizing, mulching, pruning, mowing, and controlling weeds. Many also offer pest control and tree removal services.

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

Licensing and Experience

Landscape contractors often have advanced training and certification in areas like horticulture, lawn maintenance, and outdoor design. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. It might also 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 Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. These certifications are an added bonus, but not mandatory. Landscapers typically have liability insurance to protect against bodily injury or property damage. Any contractor you hire should be fully insured and bonded. Make sure to request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to confirm coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

You want a provider with an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. Check both negative and positive reviews on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to get a feel for how a provider treats its customers. You want to avoid companies that have frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, poor project results, or delayed projects, or that have generally poor reviews.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance companies will have before and after photos of previously completed projects to showcase their work to potential customers. Ask to see the company's portfolio. You can specifically ask for photos of projects similar to yours, so you can see how your yard might look, and even get some inspiration.

Sustainability Practices

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

Cost

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

Landscaping Costs in Salinas

Landscaping in Salinas generally costs between $25 and $38 per hour. These figures depend on things such as project size and type. Bigger projects, such as resodding, will be more expensive than simple lawn tasks like gardening or mowing. Factors like your yard's size and the materials you choose will impact your final price. For larger yards, companies might charge by the acre. Bigger projects require more labor, which will increase costs. The table below breaks down the average cost of common landscaping projects:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$13,192 - $17,589
Landscaping Design	$1,910 - $2,546
Landscaping LandGrading	$413 - $2,479
Landscaping Mulch	$25 - $124
Planting FlowerBeds	$83 - $1,653
Planting Trees	$216 - $361
Sodding	$41 - $50
Swimming Pool	$31,400 - $82,633