Best 3 Landscaping Companies in Missoula, MT

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

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

You can do some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, are easier to DIY. You should hire a professional landscaper for things like a complete 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 skills and expertise 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 Missoula Landscaping Company

Reputation and experience are important considerations for selecting a landscaper, but you also want to ensure that your provider offers the services you need within your budget. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.

Services Offered

Different landscaping companies cater to different lawn needs. Some focus on services that help with your yard's health and maintenance, such as pruning, controlling weeds, fertilizing, mulching, and mowing. These providers also often offer pest management and tree cutting services.

You'll need 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 gardening, adding hardscapes, and landscaping rock projects. They may also help install fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance 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 hold the appropriate licensure from the Missoula city government. It 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 have certifications from professional organizations, such as the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network. These certifications are not mandatory but can lend credibility to a provider. Landscaping companies should be fully bonded and insured. Contractors will normally have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury. Homeowners should request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to confirm coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

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

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance companies will have before and after photos of previous projects to showcase their work to potential customers. Ask to see the company's portfolio. You can specifically ask for photos of projects similar to yours, so you can see how your yard might look, and even get some inspiration.

Sustainability Practices

A landscaping company's sustainability practices are essential. These practices include waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation. Your provider should implement native plant life—such as Colorado blue columbine, heartleaf arnica, and scarlet gilia—for best results. The work completed on your property shouldn't impact your 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

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

Landscaping Costs in Missoula

Generally, landscaping costs $20–$30 per hour in Missoula. These costs vary based on project size and type. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than a larger project like resodding. Bigger projects necessitate more labor, which will increase the final cost. Depending on your yard's size, the company may charge by the acre. The price will also be affected by the materials you choose. Here's the average cost of landscaping by project type:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,277 - $16,370
Landscaping Design	$1,503 - $2,004
Landscaping LandGrading	$389 - $2,334
Landscaping Mulch	$23 - $117
Planting FlowerBeds	$78 - $1,556
Planting Trees	$204 - $340
Sodding	$39 - $47
Swimming Pool	$29,569 - $77,814