Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Lincoln, NE

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Many homeowners have a basic level of lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. Large projects may require heavy equipment and intense labor. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems need additional construction and machinery expertise.

Do-it-yourself (DIY) landscaping works for smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants. However, you should hire a professional landscaping company if you’re completing a yard overhaul or lack basic lawn expertise.

Professional landscape designers and architects have the proper knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and create long-term landscape maintenance plans. If they also offer lawn care services, contractors can help improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making costly mistakes attempting it yourself.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Lincoln Landscaping Company

You want to find a landscaping company that offers the services you need at a reasonable price. You also want to know that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following factors in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.

Services Offered

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

You'll want full-service landscaping if you plan to revamp your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. Full-service companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including adding hardscapes, gardening, and landscaping rock projects. They can also help install retaining walls, fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and other architectural elements. Some offer lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. Companies should hold the appropriate licensure from the Lincoln city government. Your provider 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 might also have certifications from professional organizations, such as the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network. While not mandatory, these certifications show a contractor's commitment to their profession. Your landscaper should be fully bonded and insured. Contractors will typically have liability insurance for protection against bodily injury or property damage. Request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to confirm coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

Seek out companies with positive customer reviews and strong reputations. You can check third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Look for both positive and negative reviews for each company to gauge how it treats its customers. Be wary of companies with mostly negative reviews and frequent mentions of delayed projects, poor project results, or unreliable customer service.

Work Portfolio

Many landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share photos of previously completed projects with potential customers. Request to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, preferably ones similar to the ideas you have for your yard. Often, companies have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability practices can include eco-friendly material options, waste management, and water conservation, and they're an important consideration when selecting a landscaper. Landscaping work shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Additionally, your landscaper should choose native plants, such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant. Ask about sustainability practices for your project, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.

Cost

Request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best pricing and services. Most companies conduct free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and go over project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote outlining your project costs, including materials and labor. You may wish to use competing quotes to negotiate a better price.

Landscaping Costs in Lincoln

Landscaping typically costs $20–$30 per hour in Lincoln, depending on project type and size. Simple tasks like mowing or gardening will cost less than significant yard work, such as resodding. Factors such as your yard's size and the materials you choose will all influence your final price. For larger yards, a provider might charge by the acre. Large or complex projects need more labor, which will increase costs. The table below breaks down the average cost of different landscaping services:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$11,909 - $15,878
Landscaping Design	$1,535 - $2,047
Landscaping LandGrading	$391 - $2,346
Landscaping Mulch	$23 - $117
Planting FlowerBeds	$78 - $1,564
Planting Trees	$205 - $342
Sodding	$39 - $47
Swimming Pool	$29,713 - $78,191