Best 5 Landscaping Companies in San Leandro, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

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

Do-it-yourself (DIY) landscaping can be good for smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants. However, you should hire a professional landscaping contractor if you’re completing a yard overhaul or lack basic lawn expertise.

Hiring a landscape designer or architect helps you avoid costly mistakes. These professionals have the skills and know-how to elevate your outdoor living space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a plan for long-term maintenance.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an San Leandro Landscaping Company

Finding the right landscaper involves finding one with the right experience that also fits your service needs and budget. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Have an idea of what services you need before selecting a company. Some companies provide lawn care services that focus on yard health and maintenance. These services can include fertilizing, mowing, controlling weeds, pruning, and mulching. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.

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

Licensing and Experience

Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure 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 hold certifications from professional organizations, including the Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. These certifications are an added bonus, but not mandatory. Landscapers should have liability insurance for protection against bodily injury or property damage. Your provider should be fully insured and bonded. Request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to confirm coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

Seek out companies with excellent reputations and positive customer experiences. We recommend checking third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Look for both negative and positive reviews to gauge how a provider treats its customers. Be wary of companies with mostly negative reviews and frequent mentions of poor project results, unreliable customer service, or delayed projects.

Work Portfolio

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

Sustainability Practices

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

Cost

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

Landscaping Costs in San Leandro

Landscaping in San Leandro generally costs between $34 and $51 per hour. These figures depend on things such as project size and type. Bigger projects like resodding will be more expensive than simple lawn tasks like gardening or mowing. Depending on your yard size, the company may charge by the acre. Bigger projects require more labor, which will increase the cost. Pricing will also vary depending on your selected materials. The table below breaks down the average cost of different landscaping services:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$13,650 - $18,199
Landscaping Design	$2,561 - $3,415
Landscaping LandGrading	$452 - $2,711
Landscaping Mulch	$27 - $136
Planting FlowerBeds	$90 - $1,807
Planting Trees	$237 - $395
Sodding	$45 - $54
Swimming Pool	$34,336 - $90,358