Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Champaign City, IL

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Most homeowners have a basic level of 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 need additional construction and machinery expertise.

Small landscaping projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds, can be easy projects to DIY. If you don't have the needed lawn expertise or are looking for a total yard overhaul, consider hiring a professional.

Professional landscape architects and designers have the proper knowledge and skill set 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 costly mistakes attempting it yourself.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Champaign City Landscaping Company

Aim to hire a landscaper that offers the services you need within your budget. Also ensure that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

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

Look for a full-service landscaping company if you plan to revamp your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. Full-service companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. 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 landscaping contractors are trained and certified in areas like outdoor design, lawn maintenance, and horticulture. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the Champaign City city government. 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 may also hold certifications from professional organizations, such as the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network. While not mandatory, these certifications show a contractor's commitment to their profession. Request a certificate of insurance or a provider's insurance numbers before beginning a project. All landscapers should be bonded and insured. Contractors usually have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury.

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. Look for both negative and positive reviews to gauge how a provider treats its customers. Stay away from companies with mostly negative customer reviews and frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, delayed projects, or poor project results.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance companies will have before and after photos of past projects to demonstrate the quality of their work. Request the company's portfolio. You can specifically ask to see other projects similar to yours, so you can see how your yard might look, and even get some inspiration.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability practices are essential for any landscaping company. These include water conservation, eco-friendly material options, and waste management. Landscaping contractors should implement plant life native to your area—such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant—for best results. The work completed on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. The company should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.

Cost

You should request quotes from multiple companies to learn about services and pricing. Most companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and review project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote outlining your project costs, including materials and labor. You can use competing quotes to negotiate a better price.

Landscaping Costs in Champaign City

Landscaping typically costs $23–$35 per hour in Champaign City, depending on project type and size. Simple tasks, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than major yard work, such as resodding. Depending on your yard size, the company may charge by the acre. Bigger projects require more labor, which will increase the cost. Pricing will also vary depending on your selected materials. The table below shows the average cost of common landscaping projects:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,031 - $16,042
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