DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Most homeowners have a basic level of lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires more advanced skills. Large projects may require intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems need additional machinery and construction expertise.
Small landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants, 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 architects and designers can not only enhance your lawn but can also recommend cost-effective upgrades and help develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. Contactors that offer lawn care services can improve your lawn's health and help you avoid costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an St. Petersburg Landscaping Company
Experience and reputation are important considerations for choosing a landscaping company, but you also want to ensure that the provider offers the services you need at a reasonable price. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Consider your lawn's needs when choosing a landscaping company. Some companies offer lawn care services—including controlling weeds, pruning, fertilizing, mulching, and mowing—to improve yard health and maintenance. These companies often also provide pest control and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaping company is the best choice if you want to revamp your whole yard or install architectural elements such as fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and retaining walls. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as adding hardscapes, gardening, and landscaping rock projects. Some might also 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 St. Petersburg city government. It may employ the following certified staff members:
- Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
- Licensed arborists
- Licensed horticulture specialists
- Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects
Reputation and Reviews
Look for companies with excellent reputations and positive customer experiences. You can check third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Look for both positive and negative reviews to gauge how a provider treats its customers. Avoid companies with mainly negative customer reviews and frequent mentions of delayed projects, poor project results, or unreliable customer service.
Work Portfolio
Ask to see a portfolio of your landscaping company's previous work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share projects and designs with potential customers, including before and after photos. 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
Ask your landscaping company about its sustainability practices, such as eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management. Your provider can explain its own sustainability practices and offer recommendations for sustainable maintenance, such as how to reduce cost, waste, and water consumption. When planting vegetation, your landscaper should use plants native to your area, such as trumpet honeysuckle, climbing aster, and narrowleaf sunflower. Any work they complete shouldn't affect your existing vegetation.
Cost
Request quotes from multiple companies to compare services and prices. Most companies offer free consultations where they'll review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and discuss project ideas. A detailed quote should outline project costs such as labor and materials. You can use a quote to compare with other companies and sometimes negotiate a better deal.
Landscaping Costs in St. Petersburg
Generally, landscaping costs $23–$34 per hour in St. Petersburg. These costs vary based on project size and type. Less complicated work, such as mowing or gardening, will cost less than a larger project like resodding. Factors such as materials and the size of your yard will impact your final price. For larger yards, a provider may charge by the acre. Large or complex projects require more labor, which will increase costs. The table below breaks down the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,912 - $17,216 |
Landscaping Design | $1,707 - $2,277 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $401 - $2,407 |
Landscaping Mulch | $24 - $120 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $80 - $1,605 |
Planting Trees | $210 - $351 |
Sodding | $40 - $48 |
Swimming Pool | $30,490 - $80,237 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in St. Petersburg
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are some benefits of landscaping?
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
What is a landscape designer?
How should I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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