Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Independence, MO

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping needs more advanced skills. Full-scale landscaping projects require heavy equipment and intense labor. Adding more complex elements, such as a fire pit or irrigation system, requires construction and machinery expertise.

Small landscaping projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds, can be easy projects to DIY. If you don't have basic lawn expertise or are planning a complete yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a professional.

Professional landscape designers and architects have the skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and create long-term landscape maintenance plans. Contractors that offer lawn care services can help you improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making costly mistakes doing it on your own.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Independence Landscaping Company

Choosing the right landscaper depends on several factors, such as your service needs, your budget, and the company’s experience. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Have an idea of what services you need before choosing a company. Some companies offer lawn care services focused on yard health and maintenance. These services can include mulching, mowing, fertilizing, controlling weeds, and pruning. Many also offer pest control and tree removal services.

You should hire 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 adding hardscapes, landscaping rock projects, and gardening. They can also help install fire pits, retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and other architectural elements. Some even offer lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Most landscapers are trained and certified in areas like lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. Your provider should have the appropriate licenses from the Independence city government. It might also employ the following certified professionals:

• 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, including the Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. While not mandatory, these certifications show a contractor's commitment to their profession. Ask to see a certificate of insurance or a provider's insurance numbers before starting a project. All landscapers should be insured and bonded. Contractors normally have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury.

Reputation and Reviews

Look for a contractor with good customer reviews. 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 ones that frequently mention poor project results, unreliable customer service, or delayed projects.

Work Portfolio

Ask for a portfolio of your landscaping company's previous work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are proud to share projects and designs with potential customers, including before and after photos. You can 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 landscaper. These practices include waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider should choose plant life native to your area—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, waste, and water consumption.

Cost

Request multiple quotes from different to compare pricing and services. Most landscapers offer free consultations in which they'll review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and discuss project plans. Your detailed quote should outline project costs such as materials and labor. You can use this quote to compare your options and sometimes negotiate a better price.

Landscaping Costs in Independence

Landscaping in Independence generally costs between $25 and $38 per hour. These prices depend on things such as project size and type. Bigger projects, such as resodding, will be more expensive than simple lawn tasks like mowing or gardening. Larger projects necessitate more labor, which increases the total cost. Depending on your yard's size, your provider might charge by the acre. The cost will also be affected by the materials you choose. Here's the average cost of different landscaping services:

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