Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Largo, FL

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

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

You can complete 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 professional landscaper for things like a total yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you lack the needed expertise. Professional landscape designers and architects have the proper skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and create long-term landscape maintenance plans. If they also offer lawn care services, contractors can help improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making expensive mistakes attempting it yourself.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Largo Landscaping Company

Choosing the right landscaping company comes down to certain factors, such as your budget, your service needs, and the company’s experience. Consider the following factors when hiring a landscaping contractor.

• Services Offered

  Consider your lawn's needs when choosing a landscaping provider. Some companies offer lawn care services—such as controlling weeds, mulching, pruning, mowing, and fertilizing—to help improve your yard health and maintenance. These companies often also offer pest control and tree removal services. Plan to hire 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 offer lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.

• Licensing and Experience

  Landscape contractors often have advanced training and certification in areas like lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the Largo city government. It may also have 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, including the Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. While not mandatory, these certifications are an added bonus. Landscapers typically have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury. Your contractor should be fully insured and bonded. Make sure to request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to confirm coverage.

• Reputation and Reviews

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

• Work Portfolio

  Most landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share completed projects with potential customers. Ask the company for its portfolio of landscaping designs and projects. They might also have before and after pictures to show off their quality work. Request completed landscape designs similar to your project to get a better idea of how it will look.

• Sustainability Practices

  A landscaper's sustainability practices are essential. These practices include eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management. Landscaping contractors should use plant life native to your area—such as trumpet honeysuckle, climbing aster, and narrowleaf sunflower—for best results. Any work done on your property shouldn't affect your existing vegetation. The company should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and provide recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.

• Cost

  Many providers offer free consultations, during which a contractor will review your outdoor space, provide recommendations, and go over project ideas. Your detailed quote will outline project expenses like labor and materials. We recommend getting quotes from multiple companies, which you can then use to compare rates and services and sometimes negotiate a better price.