Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Sarasota, FL

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Although many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, landscaping needs more advanced skills. Full-scale landscaping projects require heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as fire put or irrigation systems, require construction and machinery expertise.

You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants. However, if you don't have basic lawn expertise or if you're planning a larger yard overhaul, consider hiring a landscaping contractor.

Professional landscape designers and architects have the skill set to elevate your outdoor space and the expertise to create a long-term maintenance plan. A professional can explain the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who offers lawn care services can enhance your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents costly DIY mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Sarasota Landscaping Company

Take into consideration factors such as your budget and service needs as well as a company's experience when selecting a landscaping company. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Different landscaping companies cater to different lawn needs. Some focus on services that help with your yard's health and maintenance, such as mulching, controlling weeds, fertilizing, mowing, and pruning. These companies often also provide pest control and tree removal services.

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

Licensing and Experience

Most landscape contractors have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Companies should possess the appropriate licenses from the Sarasota city government. The company 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 might also hold certifications from professional organizations, including the Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. While not mandatory, these certifications show a contractor's commitment to their profession. Landscaping contractors should have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury. Any contractor you hire should be fully bonded and insured. Request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to verify coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

You want a contractor who has an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. You can read both negative and positive reviews on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau in order to get a feel for how a company treats its customers. Avoid companies that have frequent mentions of delayed projects, unreliable customer service, or poor project results, or that have generally poor reviews.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance companies will have before and after photos of past projects to showcase their work to potential customers. Ask to see your provider's portfolio. You can specifically ask to see other projects similar to yours, to see how yours might look and even get some inspiration.

Sustainability Practices

Ask your landscaping company about its sustainability practices, including eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management. Your provider can explain its own sustainability practices and provide recommendations for sustainable maintenance, including how to reduce cost, waste, and water consumption. When planting vegetation, your landscaper should select native area plants, such as trumpet honeysuckle, climbing aster, and narrowleaf sunflower. Any work they complete shouldn't impact your existing vegetation.

Cost

Request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best pricing and services. Most companies provide free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and go over project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including materials and labor. You may wish to use competing quotes to help negotiate a better price.

Landscaping Costs in Sarasota

Generally, landscaping costs $23–$35 per hour in Sarasota. These figures vary based on project type and size. Less complicated work, such as mowing or gardening, will be less expensive than a larger project like resodding. Pricing will vary based on your chosen materials. For a larger yard, companies may charge by the acre. Larger projects necessitate more labor, which will increase the total price. The table below shows the average cost of different landscaping services:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,339 - $16,452
Landscaping Design	$1,778 - $2,371
Landscaping LandGrading	$405 - $2,432
Landscaping Mulch	$24 - $122
Planting FlowerBeds	$81 - $1,621
Planting Trees	$212 - $354
Sodding	$41 - $49
Swimming Pool	$30,807 - $81,071