Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Santa Ana, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

You may have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires advanced skills, intense labor, and heavy equipment. More complicated landscaping projects, such as adding an irrigation system or fire pit, also require construction and machinery experience.

You can do some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. However, you should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a total yard overhaul, or smaller projects for which you don't have the needed expertise.

Professional landscape architects and designers have the knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. They help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades and create long-term plans for landscape maintenance. Contractors that offer lawn care services can help you improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making costly mistakes doing it on your own.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Santa Ana Landscaping Company

Consider factors such as your budget and service needs as well as a company's experience when choosing a landscaping company. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.

Services Offered

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

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

Licensing and Experience

Most landscapers are trained and certified in various areas, such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. Your provider should have the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. It might also employ the following certified professionals:

• 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 National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network. These certifications are not mandatory, but a way to show a contractor's commitment to their profession. Your landscaper should be fully insured and bonded. Contractors typically have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury. Homeowners should request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to verify coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

Seek out companies with excellent reputations and positive customer experiences. Read about the company on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Read positive and negative reviews to gauge how a provider treats its customers. Stay away from companies with mainly negative reviews and frequent mentions of delayed projects, poor project results, or unreliable customer service.

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 photos. You can ask for photos of past projects that are similar to your own design ideas to get an idea of how your project will look.

Sustainability Practices

Ask your landscaping contractor about their sustainability practices, including water conservation, waste management, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider should be able to explain its own sustainability practices and provide recommendations for sustainable maintenance, including how to reduce cost, water consumption, and waste. When planting vegetation, the company should select native area plants, such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry. Any work completed shouldn't affect your existing vegetation.

Cost

You should request multiple quotes from different companies—this lets you compare rates and services and might even help you negotiate a better deal. Many companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, talk about project plans, and provide recommendations. Your detailed quote should include information about various project costs, such as labor and materials.

Landscaping Costs in Santa Ana

Generally, landscaping costs $28–$41 per hour in Santa Ana. These figures vary based on project size and type. Less complicated work, such as gardening or mowing, will be less expensive than a larger project like resodding. Pricing can depend on your chosen materials. For a large yard, companies may charge by the acre. Bigger projects require more labor, which will increase the total cost. The table below breaks down the average cost of common landscaping projects:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$13,131 - $17,508
Landscaping Design	$2,094 - $2,791
Landscaping LandGrading	$424 - $2,544
Landscaping Mulch	$25 - $127
Planting FlowerBeds	$85 - $1,696
Planting Trees	$222 - $371
Sodding	$42 - $51
Swimming Pool	$32,229 - $84,813