Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Dubuque, IA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Many homeowners have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. A large project might require intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as irrigation systems and fire pits require 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 basic lawn expertise or are planning a complete yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a professional.

Professional landscape architects and designers can enhance your lawn, recommend the most cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. Contactors that also provide lawn care services can improve the health of your lawn and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Dubuque Landscaping Company

Consider factors such as your budget and service needs as well as a provider's experience when hiring a landscaper. Keep the following factors in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.

Services Offered

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

Look for a full-service landscaper if you're adding new outdoor elements (such as a fire pit) or planning a revamp of your whole yard. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as adding hardscapes, gardening, and landscaping rock projects. They can also help install fire pits, retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and other architectural elements. Some even provide lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Your landscaping company should possess the appropriate licenses from the Dubuque city government. Most contractors also have advanced training and certification in areas such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. Your provider might 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 have certifications from professional organizations, such as the Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. These certifications are not mandatory, but a way to show a contractor's commitment to their profession. Landscaping companies should be fully insured and bonded. Contractors will normally have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury. Homeowners should request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to verify coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

Look for a contractor with good customer reviews. 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. Try to avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including ones that frequently mention unreliable customer service, poor project results, or delayed projects.

Work Portfolio

Many landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share photos of past projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, preferably ones that are similar to your own ideas. Companies often have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.

Sustainability Practices

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

Cost

We recommend requesting multiple quotes from different companies. This lets you compare rates and services and might even help you negotiate a better deal. Many providers offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, discuss project plans, and provide recommendations. Your detailed quote will include information about various project costs, such as labor and materials.

Landscaping Costs in Dubuque

In Dubuque, you can expect to pay roughly $19–$28 for landscaping, depending on project type and size. Significant yard work such as resodding will be more expensive than easier tasks like gardening and mowing. Factors such as the size of your yard and the materials you choose will affect your final price. For larger yards, companies may charge by the acre. Bigger projects require more labor, which will increase costs. Here's the average cost of common landscaping projects:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$13,209 - $17,612
Landscaping Design	$1,419 - $1,892
Landscaping LandGrading	$384 - $2,305
Landscaping Mulch	$23 - $115
Planting FlowerBeds	$77 - $1,536
Planting Trees	$201 - $336
Sodding	$38 - $46
Swimming Pool	$29,191 - $76,818