Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Portland, ME

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills. However, more specialized knowledge is needed for landscaping. Full-scale landscaping requires heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as fire pits or irrigation systems, need machinery and construction 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're planning a larger yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a landscaper.

Professional landscape designers and architects have the skills to elevate your outdoor space and the expertise to develop a long-term maintenance plan. Your local professional can help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who also offers lawn care services can enhance your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents expensive DIY mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Portland Landscaping Company

Hiring the right landscaper depends on several factors, such as your budget, your service needs, and the company’s experience. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.

Services Offered

Consider your lawn's needs when choosing a landscaping company. Some companies offer lawn care services—such as fertilizing, mulching, controlling weeds, mowing, and pruning—to help with yard health and maintenance. These companies often also provide pest control and tree clearing services.

You'll want full-service landscaping if you're planning a full revamp of your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. Full-service companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including adding hardscapes, landscaping rock projects, and gardening. They can also help install retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, fire pits, and other architectural elements. Some offer lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as outdoor design, lawn maintenance, and horticulture. Companies should hold the appropriate licensure from the Portland city government. The company may employ the following certified staff members:

• Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
• Licensed arborists
• Licensed horticulture specialists
• Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects

It may also have certifications from professional organizations, including the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network. While not mandatory, these certifications are an added bonus. Ask to see a certificate of insurance or a provider's insurance numbers before beginning a project. All landscaping companies should be bonded and insured. Contractors will typically have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury.

Reputation and Reviews

Look for a contractor who gets good reviews from customers. You can look at third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to verify that a company has a good reputation and provides a positive customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including ones that frequently mention poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance companies have before and after photos of previously completed projects to showcase their work to potential customers. 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 landscaper. These include eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management. Landscaping contractors should select plant life native to your area—such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower—for best results. The work done on your property shouldn't affect your existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise of any sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.

Cost

Request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best services and pricing. Most companies conduct free consultations to review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and discuss project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote outlining your project costs, including labor and materials. You can use competing quotes to negotiate a lower price.

Landscaping Costs in Portland

Landscaping in Portland generally costs between $28 and $43 per hour. These figures depend on things such as project type and size. Bigger projects like resodding will cost more than simple lawn tasks like gardening or mowing. Larger projects require more labor, which will increase the final cost. Depending on your yard's size, the company might charge by the acre. The cost will also be affected by the materials you choose. The table below breaks down the average cost of different landscaping services:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,509 - $16,679
Landscaping Design	$2,157 - $2,876
Landscaping LandGrading	$428 - $2,567
Landscaping Mulch	$26 - $128
Planting FlowerBeds	$86 - $1,711
Planting Trees	$224 - $374
Sodding	$43 - $51
Swimming Pool	$32,515 - $85,567