Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Huntington, NY

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

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

You can handle 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, or smaller projects for which you don't have the needed expertise. Hiring a landscape architect or designer helps you avoid costly mistakes. Professionals have the knowledge and skills to elevate your outdoor living space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a long-term maintenance plan.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Huntington Landscaping Company

You should consider factors such as your services needs and budget as well as a company's experience when choosing a landscaping company. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.

• Services Offered

  Consider your lawn's needs when choosing a landscaping company. Some providers offer lawn care services—such as fertilizing, mulching, controlling weeds, pruning, and mowing—to help improve your yard health and maintenance. These companies often also provide pest control and tree removal services. You want a full-service landscaper for full-yard revamps or to install elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, or fire pits. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.

• Licensing and Experience

  Most landscape contractors have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. Companies should hold the appropriate licensure from the Huntington city government. The company may have 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, 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. Ask to see a certificate of insurance or a company's insurance numbers before beginning a project. All landscapers should be insured and bonded. Contractors typically have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury.

• Reputation and Reviews

  You want a provider with an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. Check both positive and negative reviews on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau in order to get a feel for how a provider treats its customers. Avoid providers that have frequent mentions of delayed projects, poor project results, or unreliable customer service, or that have overall poor reviews.

• Work Portfolio

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

• Sustainability Practices

  A landscaper's sustainability practices are essential. These include waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation. Landscaping contractors should select native plant life—such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower—for best results. The work done on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.

• Cost

  Request quotes from multiple companies to compare pricing and services. Most providers 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 a quote to compare your options and sometimes negotiate a better deal.