Best 5 Landscaping Companies in San Jose, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Many homeowners have at least basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires more advanced skills. A large project might require heavy equipment and intense labor. Complicated projects such as irrigation systems and fire pits need additional construction and machinery expertise.

You can complete 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, and for smaller projects if you don't have the needed expertise.

Professional landscape architects and designers have the skills to elevate your outdoor space and the expertise to create a long-term maintenance plan. A professional can explain the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who also offers lawn care services can improve your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents you from making expensive mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an San Jose Landscaping Company

Choosing the right landscaper depends on several factors, such as your service needs, your budget, and the company’s experience. Consider the following factors when hiring a landscaping contractor.

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 can include fertilizing, mulching, pruning, mowing, and controlling weeds. Many also offer pest control and tree removal services.

Plan to hire a full-service landscaping company if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, fire pits, or retaining walls. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. Some provide lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.

Licensing and Experience

Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in certain areas, such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Companies should have the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. Your provider may 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 lend credibility to a provider. Landscaping contractors normally have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury. Your contractor should be fully bonded and insured. Make sure to request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to verify coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

You want a contractor who has a good reputation and positive customer reviews. Read 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

Many landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share photos of previous projects with prospective customers. Request to see a portfolio of landscaping projects and designs, preferably ones that are similar to the ideas you have for your yard. Companies often have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.

Sustainability Practices

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

Cost

Request quotes from multiple companies to learn about pricing and services. Most companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and review project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including labor and materials. You can use competing quotes to negotiate a lower price.

Landscaping Costs in San Jose

In San Jose, you should expect to spend around $33–$50 for landscaping, depending on project size and type. Significant yard work such as resodding will cost more than simpler tasks like gardening and mowing. Depending on your yard's size, the company may charge by the acre. Larger or more complex projects require more labor, increasing the project total. Pricing will also depend on your selected materials. The table below shows 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