Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Minneapolis, MN

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Although many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, landscaping needs more advanced skills. Full-scale landscaping projects require heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as fire put or irrigation systems, require construction and machinery expertise.

You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants. However, if you lack the needed lawn expertise or if you want to do a larger yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a landscaper. Professional landscape architects and designers can enhance your lawn, recommend the most cost-effective upgrades, and help develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and expertise to elevate your outdoor space. Contactors that also provide lawn care services can improve your lawn's health and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Minneapolis Landscaping Company

You want to find a landscaper that offers the services you need within your budget. Also ensure that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following factors in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

• Services Offered

  Consider your lawn's needs when choosing a landscaping provider. Some providers offer lawn care services—including controlling weeds, pruning, fertilizing, mowing, and mulching—to improve your yard health and maintenance. These companies often also offer pest control and tree removal 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. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including adding hardscapes, landscaping rock projects, and gardening. They can also help install fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.

• Licensing and Experience

  Landscapers often have advanced training and certification in areas such as outdoor design, lawn maintenance, and horticulture. A company should have the appropriate licenses from the Minnesota Department of Transportation. 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, including the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network. While not mandatory, these certifications show a contractor's commitment to their profession. Request a certificate of insurance or a provider's insurance numbers before beginning a project. All landscapers should be insured and bonded. Contractors normally have liability insurance to protect against property damage or bodily injury.

• Reputation and Reviews

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

• Work Portfolio

  Ask for a portfolio of your landscaping company's past work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are proud to share designs and projects with potential customers, including before and after photos. Ask for photos of past projects that are similar to your design ideas so that you can get a picture of how your project will look.

• Sustainability Practices

  Sustainability practices are essential for any landscaping company. These practices include water conservation, eco-friendly material options, and waste management. Your provider should choose native plant life—such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant—for best results. Any work on your property shouldn't impact 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

  Homeowners should request quotes from multiple companies to learn about pricing and services. Most companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, make 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.