DIY Options vs. Professional Services
While many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills, landscaping requires more specialized knowledge. Full-scale landscaping requires heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as irrigation systems or fire pits, need construction and machinery experience as well.
You can complete some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. 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 can not only enhance your lawn but can also recommend cost-effective upgrades and help you develop a long-term 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 help you avoid costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Blue Springs Landscaping Company
Hiring the right landscaper comes down to certain 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
You should assess your landscaping needs before selecting a provider. If you need assistance with yard health and maintenance, look for one that offers lawn care services. These services can include pruning, controlling weeds, mulching, fertilizing, and mowing. Some companies provide additional pest management services and tree removal.
Plan to hire a full-service landscaper if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as retaining walls, fire pits, or sprinkler or irrigation systems. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including adding hardscapes, gardening, and landscaping rock projects. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscape contractors have advanced training and certifications in certain areas, such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Companies should have the appropriate licenses from the Blue Springs city government. The company may have 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
Look for a contractor with good customer reviews. You can check third-party review sites such as 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
Request to see a portfolio of your landscaping contractor's previous work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share designs and projects with potential customers, including before and after pictures. You can ask for photos of past projects that are similar to your own design ideas so that you can get an idea of how your project will look.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability is important to consider during and after a landscaping project. Ask your provider about its best practices for water conservation, eco-friendly material options, and waste management; you might also ask for maintenance recommendations. Landscapers should use native plant life (such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant) when planting new vegetation, and they shouldn't let their work affect your existing vegetation.
Cost
Request multiple quotes from different to compare pricing and services. Most providers offer free consultations during which they'll review your outdoor space, provide recommendations, and go over project ideas. A detailed quote will outline project costs such as materials and labor. You can use a quote to compare your options and sometimes negotiate a better deal.
Landscaping Costs in Blue Springs
Landscaping typically costs $25–$38 per hour in Blue Springs, depending on project type and size. Simple tasks, such as mowing or gardening, are less expensive than significant yard work, such as resodding. Depending on the size of your yard, the company may charge by the acre. Larger or more complex projects require more labor, increasing the price. Pricing will also vary depending on your selected materials. Here's the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,369 - $16,492 |
Landscaping Design | $1,898 - $2,531 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $412 - $2,475 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $124 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $82 - $1,650 |
Planting Trees | $216 - $361 |
Sodding | $41 - $49 |
Swimming Pool | $31,349 - $82,498 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Lawn Care Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Blue Springs
What are 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 do I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.