Best 5 Landscaping Companies in San Ramon, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Most 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 irrigation systems and fire pits require additional construction and machinery expertise.

You can handle 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 total yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you don't have the needed expertise.

Professional landscape architects and designers have the proper skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and develop long-term plans for landscape maintenance. If they also offer lawn care services, contractors can help improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making costly mistakes doing it on your own.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an San Ramon Landscaping Company

Aim to hire a landscaping company 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 considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Different landscaping providers serve different lawn needs. Some providers focus on services to help with the health and maintenance of your yard, such as fertilizing, mulching, pruning, mowing, and controlling weeds. These providers also often offer pest management and tree cutting services.

A full-service landscaper is the best choice if you want to revamp your whole yard or install architectural elements such as retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and fire pits. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as landscaping rock projects, adding hardscapes, and gardening. Some also provide lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Your landscaping company should have the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. Most contractors also have advanced training and certification in areas such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, 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 may also hold certifications from professional organizations, such as the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network. These certifications aren't mandatory, but they’re an added bonus. Landscaping contractors typically have liability insurance to protect against property damage or bodily injury. Your contractor should be fully insured and bonded. Request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to confirm coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

Look for companies with positive customer reviews and strong reputations. We recommend checking third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Read positive and negative reviews to gauge how a provider treats its customers. Avoid companies with mainly negative reviews and frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, poor project results, or delayed projects.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance contractors proudly share finished projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping projects and designs. They might also have before and after pictures to show the quality of their work. Request completed landscape designs similar to your project to get an idea of how it will look.

Sustainability Practices

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

Cost

You should request quotes from multiple companies. This allows you to compare rates and services and may even help you negotiate a better price. Many providers offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, talk about project plans, and provide recommendations. Your detailed quote will include information about various project costs, such as materials and labor.

Landscaping Costs in San Ramon

Landscaping typically costs $31–$47 per hour in San Ramon, depending on project type and size. Simple tasks, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than major yard work, such as resodding. Larger projects require more labor, which will increase the final cost. Depending on the size of your yard, your provider may charge by the acre. The price will also be affected by the materials you choose. Here's the average cost of different landscaping services:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$13,530 - $18,040
Landscaping Design	$2,355 - $3,140
Landscaping LandGrading	$440 - $2,637
Landscaping Mulch	$26 - $132
Planting FlowerBeds	$88 - $1,758
Planting Trees	$230 - $384
Sodding	$44 - $53
Swimming Pool	$33,405 - $87,908