Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Lawrence, KS

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

While many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills, landscaping requires more specialized knowledge. Full-scale landscaping employs intense labor and heavy equipment. 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 removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds. However, if you don't have basic lawn expertise or if you want to do a total yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a landscaping contractor. Professional landscape architects and designers have the right knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. They help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades and create long-term plans for landscape maintenance. 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 Lawrence Landscaping Company

Selecting the right landscaping company involves finding one with enough experience that also fits your budget and service needs. Consider the following factors when hiring a landscaping contractor.

• Services Offered

  Different landscaping providers serve different lawn needs. Some companies focus on services that help with the health and maintenance of your yard, such as pruning, fertilizing, mulching, mowing, and controlling weeds. These companies often also provide pest control and tree removal services. You need a full-service landscaper for full-yard revamps or to install elements such as fire pits, retaining walls, or sprinkler or irrigation systems. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.

• Licensing and Experience

  Most landscapers are trained and certified in various areas, such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the Lawrence 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 might also have certifications from professional organizations, including 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. Your landscaper should be fully insured and bonded; most providers have liability insurance to protect against bodily injury or property damage. Request an insurance certificate or insurance numbers to confirm a company's coverage.

• Reputation and Reviews

  Make sure you choose a contractor who gets good reviews from customers. You can check third-party review sites such as 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 poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service.

• Work Portfolio

  Many landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share photos of previously completed projects with potential customers. Request to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, preferably ones similar to the ideas you have for your yard. Often, companies have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.

• Sustainability Practices

  Ask your landscaping company about its sustainability practices, such as waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider should be able to explain its own sustainability practices and give you recommendations for sustainable maintenance, including how to reduce cost, waste, and water consumption. When planting vegetation, your landscaper should use plants native to your area, such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant. Any work they complete shouldn't impact your existing vegetation.

• Cost

  Many providers offer free consultations, during which the contractor will review your outdoor space, provide recommendations, and go over project ideas. Your detailed quote will cover project expenses like labor and materials. We recommend getting quotes from multiple companies, which you can then use to compare rates and services and sometimes negotiate a lower price.