DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You may have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires advanced skills, intense labor, and heavy equipment. More complicated projects, such as adding a fire pit or irrigation system, also require construction and machinery experience.
Do-it-yourself (DIY) landscaping is good for smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed. However, you should hire a professional landscaper if you’re completing a yard overhaul or don’t have basic lawn expertise.
Professional landscape designers and architects can not only enhance your lawn but can also recommend cost-effective upgrades and help develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and expertise to elevate your outdoor living space. Contactors that offer lawn care services can improve your lawn's health and prevent you from making costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an New Bedford Landscaping Company
Aim to hire a landscaping company that offers the services you need at a reasonable price. Also ensure that your provider has a good reputation. 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 providers offer lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services might include fertilizing, pruning, mowing, controlling weeds, and mulching. Many also offer pest control and tree removal services.
Look for a full-service landscaping company if you're adding new outdoor elements (such as a fire pit) or planning a revamp of your entire yard. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. They can also help install fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, and other architectural elements. Some also offer lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Your landscaping company should hold the appropriate licensure from the New Bedford city government. Most contractors also have advanced training and certification in areas such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. 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
Reputation and Reviews
We suggest checking third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to gauge a provider's customer experience and overall reputation. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, delayed projects, or poor project results. Try to find a company with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies have before and after photos of past projects to demonstrate the quality of their work. Ask to see your provider'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
A landscaper's sustainability practices are essential. These practices include eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management. Your provider should use native plant life—such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower—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 provide recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
Cost
You should request multiple quotes from different companies. This lets you compare services and cost and can even help you negotiate a better deal. Many companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, discuss project plans, and provide recommendations. Your detailed quote should include information about various project costs, such as materials and labor.
Landscaping Costs in New Bedford
Landscaping typically costs $30–$46 per hour in New Bedford, depending on project type and size. Simple tasks like mowing or gardening are less expensive than major yard work, such as resodding. Depending on your yard's size, the company may charge by the acre. Larger or more complex projects require more labor, increasing the price. Pricing will also depend on your selected materials. The table below shows the average cost of different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,008 - $17,344 |
Landscaping Design | $2,303 - $3,070 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $436 - $2,619 |
Landscaping Mulch | $26 - $131 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $87 - $1,746 |
Planting Trees | $229 - $381 |
Sodding | $44 - $52 |
Swimming Pool | $33,170 - $87,289 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in New Bedford
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaping company?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Is a landscaper the same as a gardener?
What is a landscape designer?
How can I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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