Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Council Bluffs, IA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

While many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills, more specialized knowledge is required for landscaping. Full-scale landscaping employs heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as irrigation systems or fire pits, need construction and machinery experience as well.

You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants. However, if you lack the needed lawn expertise or if you're planning a larger yard overhaul, consider hiring a landscaper.

Hiring a landscape architect or designer helps prevent you from making costly mistakes. Professionals have the skills and know-how to elevate your outdoor living space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a long-term maintenance plan.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Council Bluffs Landscaping Company

Selecting the right landscaper comes down to certain factors, such as your service needs, your budget, and the company’s experience. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

You should know what services you need before selecting a company. Some companies offer lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services can include controlling weeds, mowing, mulching, pruning, and fertilizing. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.

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

Licensing and Experience

Landscapers often have advanced training and certification in areas such as horticulture, lawn maintenance, and outdoor design. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the Council Bluffs city government. It might also 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 a contractor who gets good reviews from customers. You can check third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to ensure a company has a good reputation and provides a positive customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including reviews that frequently mention unreliable customer service, poor project results, or delayed projects.

Work Portfolio

Ask for a portfolio of your landscaping contractor's past work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are proud to share designs and projects with potential customers, including before and after images. Ask for photos of past projects that are similar to your design ideas so that you can get an idea of how yours will look.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability practices can include waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation, and they're an important consideration when selecting a landscaper. Landscaping work done on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Additionally, your landscaper should choose native plants, such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant. Ask your landscaper about sustainability practices for projects like yours, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.

Cost

You should request quotes from multiple companies. This allows you to compare rates and services and may even help you negotiate a better price. Many companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, discuss project plans, and make recommendations. Your detailed quote will include information about various project costs, such as labor and materials.

Landscaping Costs in Council Bluffs

Landscaping in Council Bluffs generally costs between $17 and $26 per hour. These prices depend on things such as project type and size. Bigger projects, such as resodding, will be more expensive than simple lawn tasks like gardening or mowing. Depending on your yard size, your provider may charge by the acre. Larger or more complex projects require more labor, increasing the price. Pricing will also depend on your selected materials. Here's the average cost of common landscaping projects: