Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Kansas City, MO

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

You likely have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping requires advanced skills, heavy equipment, and intense labor. Complicated landscaping projects, such as adding an irrigation system or fire pit, also require construction and machinery experience.

You can do some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, are easier to DIY. However, you should hire a professional landscaper for things like a complete yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you don't have the needed expertise.

Professional landscape architects and designers have the right knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. They help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades and develop 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 Kansas City Landscaping Company

Experience and reputation are important considerations for selecting a landscaper, but you also want to ensure that the provider offers the services you need within your budget. Consider the following factors when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Different landscaping companies cater to different lawn needs. Some focus on services that help with yard health and maintenance, such as mowing, mulching, controlling weeds, pruning, and fertilizing. These companies often also provide pest control and tree removal services.

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

Licensing and Experience

Most landscapers are trained and certified in various areas, such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the Kansas City city government. It may 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, such as the Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. 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 starting a project. All landscaping companies should be bonded and insured. Contractors normally have liability insurance for protection against bodily injury or property damage.

Reputation and Reviews

Find a contractor who gets good reviews from customers. You can look at third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to verify that 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, 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 designs and projects. They may also have before and after pictures to show off their quality work. Request completed landscape designs similar to your planned project to get an idea of how it will look.

Sustainability Practices

Ask your landscaping contractor about their sustainability practices, including eco-friendly material options, waste management, and water conservation. Your provider should be able to explain its own sustainability practices and provide recommendations for sustainable maintenance, including how to reduce cost, waste, and water consumption. When planting vegetation, the company should choose plants native to your area, such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant. Any work they complete shouldn't impact your existing vegetation.

Cost

You should request quotes from multiple companies—this allows you to compare services and cost and can even help you negotiate a lower price. Many companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, discuss project plans, and provide recommendations. Your detailed quote should include information about various project costs, such as labor and materials.

Landscaping Costs in Kansas City

Landscaping typically costs $24–$36 per hour in Kansas City, depending on project size and type. Simple tasks, such as gardening or mowing, are less expensive than major yard work, such as resodding. Depending on your yard's size, the company may charge by the acre. Large-scale projects require more labor, increasing the project total. Pricing will also depend on your selected materials. The table below breaks down the average cost of landscaping by project type:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$11,816 - $15,755
Landscaping Design	$1,801 - $2,401
Landscaping LandGrading	$407 - $2,440
Landscaping Mulch	$24 - $122
Planting FlowerBeds	$81 - $1,627
Planting Trees	$213 - $355
Sodding	$41 - $49
Swimming Pool	$30,909 - $81,341