Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Old Bridge, NJ

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

While many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills, more specialized knowledge is required for landscaping. Full-scale landscaping employs heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as irrigation systems or fire pits, need construction and machinery experience as well.

Do-it-yourself (DIY) landscaping is good for smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed. 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 skill set to elevate your outdoor space and the expertise to develop a long-term maintenance plan. A local professional can help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who also offers lawn care services can enhance your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents expensive DIY mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Old Bridge Landscaping Company

Selecting the right landscaping company comes down to certain factors, such as your budget, your service needs, and the company’s experience. Consider the following factors when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

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

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

Licensing and Experience

Most landscape contractors have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. Companies should hold the appropriate licensure from the Old Bridge city government. The company 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 hold certifications from professional organizations, including the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network. These certifications are an added bonus, but not mandatory. Your landscaper should be fully insured and bonded. Contractors usually have liability insurance for protection against bodily injury or property damage. Request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to verify coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

Find a contractor with good customer reviews. You can check 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, unreliable customer service, or delayed projects.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance contractors are happy to share their finished projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping projects and designs. They might also have before and after pictures to show off their quality work. Ask about finished landscape designs similar to your project to get a better idea of how it will look.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability practices are essential for any landscaper. These practices include eco-friendly material options, waste management, and water conservation. Your provider should use plant life native to your area—such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower—for best results. Any work 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 multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best services and pricing. Most companies conduct free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and discuss project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including materials and labor. You can use competing quotes to help negotiate a lower price.

Landscaping Costs in Old Bridge

Generally, landscaping costs $25–$37 per hour in Old Bridge. These prices vary based on project type and size. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as gardening or mowing, will be less expensive than a larger project like resodding. Factors such as materials and the size of your yard will all influence your final price. For larger yards, a provider may charge by the acre. Large or complex projects need more labor, which will increase costs. Here's the average cost of common landscaping projects:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,704 - $16,939
Landscaping Design	$1,891 - $2,522
Landscaping LandGrading	$412 - $2,473
Landscaping Mulch	$25 - $124
Planting FlowerBeds	$82 - $1,648
Planting Trees	$216 - $360
Sodding	$41 - $49
Swimming Pool	$31,319 - $82,417