Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Worcester, MA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Most homeowners have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires more advanced skills. A large project might require intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems require additional machinery and construction expertise.

You can complete some landscaping projects on your own. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, are easier to DIY. However, you should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a complete yard overhaul, or smaller projects for which you don't have the needed expertise.

Professional landscape designers and architects can not only enhance your lawn but can also recommend cost-effective upgrades and help you develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. Contactors that offer lawn care services can improve the health of your lawn and prevent you from making costly mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Worcester Landscaping Company

You should consider factors such as your budget and service needs as well as a provider's experience when selecting a landscaper. Keep the following considerations 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 that focus on yard health and maintenance. These services might include mulching, fertilizing, pruning, controlling weeds, and mowing. Many also offer pest control and tree removal services.

A full-service landscaping company is the way to go if you want to revamp your whole yard or install architectural elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, and fire pits. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as adding hardscapes, gardening, and landscaping rock projects. Some may also provide lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Landscape contractors often have advanced training and certification in areas such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. A company should have the appropriate licenses from the Worcester city government. It may also have 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 National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network. These certifications aren't mandatory, but they’re an added bonus. Landscapers should have liability insurance for protection against bodily injury or property damage. Any contractor you hire should be fully bonded and insured. Make sure to request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to confirm coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

We recommend using third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to get an idea of a company's customer experience and overall reputation. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of delayed projects, unreliable customer service, or poor project results. Try to select a provider with positive customer ratings.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance companies have before and after photos of previous projects to showcase their work to potential customers. Request the company's portfolio. You can specifically ask for photos of projects similar to yours, to see how yours might look and even get some inspiration.

Sustainability Practices

Ask your landscaping company about its sustainability practices, including eco-friendly material options, waste management, and water conservation. Your provider can explain its own sustainability practices and provide recommendations for sustainable maintenance, like how to reduce cost, waste, and water consumption. When planting vegetation, the company should select native area plants, such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower. Any work completed shouldn't have an impact on your existing vegetation.

Cost

Request quotes from multiple companies to compare services and prices. Most landscapers offer free consultations where they'll review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and go over project plans. Your detailed quote will outline project costs such as labor and materials. You can use this quote to compare companies and sometimes negotiate a better price.

Landscaping Costs in Worcester

Landscaping typically costs $31–$46 per hour in Worcester, depending on project type and size. Simple tasks, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than major yard work, such as resodding. Pricing can depend on your chosen materials. For a large yard, your provider may charge by the acre. Larger projects require more labor, which will increase the total price. Here's the average cost of landscaping by project type:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,813 - $17,084
Landscaping Design	$2,341 - $3,122
Landscaping LandGrading	$439 - $2,632
Landscaping Mulch	$26 - $132
Planting FlowerBeds	$88 - $1,755
Planting Trees	$230 - $383
Sodding	$44 - $53
Swimming Pool	$33,344 - $87,747