Best 3 Landscaping Companies in San Luis Obispo, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

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

Small landscaping projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds, can be easy projects to DIY. If you don't have the needed lawn expertise or are planning a complete yard overhaul, consider hiring a professional.

Professional landscape designers and architects can not only enhance your lawn but can also recommend cost-effective upgrades and help you develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and expertise to elevate your outdoor space. Contactors that also provide lawn care services can improve the health of your lawn and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an San Luis Obispo Landscaping Company

Take into consideration factors such as your services needs and budget as well as a provider's experience when hiring a landscaper. Keep the following factors 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 mowing, mulching, pruning, controlling weeds, and fertilizing. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.

You'll need a full-service landscaping company if you plan to revamp your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including adding hardscapes, gardening, and landscaping rock projects. They can also help install fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in certain areas, such as horticulture, lawn maintenance, and outdoor design. 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 may also have certifications from professional organizations, including 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 insured and bonded; most contractors have liability insurance to protect against bodily injury or property damage. Ask to see an insurance certificate or insurance numbers to verify a company's coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

Find a contractor with good customer reviews. You can look at third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to verify that a company has a good reputation and provides a positive customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including ones that frequently mention delayed projects, unreliable customer service, or poor project results.

Work Portfolio

Request to see a portfolio of your landscaping contractor's previous work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share designs and projects with potential customers, including before and after images. You can ask to see photos of past projects that are similar to your own design ideas so that you can get a picture of how yours will look.

Sustainability Practices

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

Cost

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

Landscaping Costs in San Luis Obispo

Landscaping typically costs $25–$38 per hour in San Luis Obispo, depending on project size and type. Simple tasks like gardening or mowing are less expensive than major yard work, such as resodding. Pricing will vary based on your chosen materials. For a bigger yard, your provider may charge by the acre. Large or complex projects require more labor, which will increase the total price. Here's the average cost of landscaping by project type:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,496 - $16,661
Landscaping Design	$1,919 - $2,558
Landscaping LandGrading	$414 - $2,482
Landscaping Mulch	$25 - $124
Planting FlowerBeds	$83 - $1,655
Planting Trees	$217 - $362
Sodding	$41 - $50
Swimming Pool	$31,441 - $82,740