Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Detroit, MI

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Many homeowners have a basic level of lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. Large projects may require intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as irrigation systems and fire pits require additional machinery and construction expertise.

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

Professional landscape architects and designers have the skills to elevate your outdoor space and the knowledge to develop a long-term maintenance plan. A professional can explain the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who also offers lawn care services can improve your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents you from making expensive mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Detroit Landscaping Company

Take into consideration factors such as your services needs and budget as well as a provider's experience when selecting a landscaper. Keep the following factors in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Know what services you need before selecting a provider. Some companies offer lawn care services focused on yard health and maintenance. These services may include pruning, mulching, controlling weeds, mowing, and fertilizing. Many also offer pest control and tree removal services.

You want a full-service landscaper for full-yard revamps or to install elements such as retaining walls, fire pits, 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 architectural and design services.

Licensing and Experience

Most landscape contractors have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as outdoor design, lawn maintenance, and horticulture. Companies should have the appropriate licenses from the Detroit city government. Your provider 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 hold certifications from professional organizations, such as the Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. These certifications are not mandatory but can lend credibility to a provider. Your landscaper should be fully bonded and insured; most providers have liability insurance to protect against bodily injury or property damage. Ask to see an insurance certificate or insurance numbers to confirm a company's coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

Look for a contractor who gets good reviews from customers. You can look at 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 reviews that frequently mention poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance contractors proudly share completed projects with potential customers. Ask the company for its portfolio of landscaping projects and designs. They might also provide before and after pictures to show the quality of their work. Ask about completed landscape designs similar to your planned project to get a better idea of how it will look.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability practices can include eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management, and they're an important consideration when selecting a landscaper. Landscaping work shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Additionally, your landscaper should choose native plants, such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant. Ask your contractor about sustainability practices for projects like yours, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.

Cost

Request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best services and pricing. Most companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and go over project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including labor and materials. You may wish to use competing quotes to negotiate a lower price.

Landscaping Costs in Detroit

In Detroit, you can expect to pay around $29–$44 for landscaping, depending on project type and size. Significant yard work like resodding will cost more than easier tasks such as mowing and gardening. Pricing will vary based on your chosen materials. For a large yard, companies might charge by the acre. Larger projects necessitate more labor, which will increase the total price. Here's the average cost of different landscaping services:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,666 - $16,888
Landscaping Design	$2,230 - $2,973
Landscaping LandGrading	$432 - $2,593
Landscaping Mulch	$26 - $130
Planting FlowerBeds	$86 - $1,729
Planting Trees	$226 - $378
Sodding	$43 - $52
Swimming Pool	$32,843 - $86,428