DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You may have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires advanced skills, heavy equipment, and intense labor. More complicated projects, such as adding a fire pit or irrigation system, also require machinery and construction 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 landscaping contractor for things like a total yard overhaul, or smaller projects for which you lack the needed expertise. Professional landscape architects and designers have the proper skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. They help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades and develop 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 The Bronx Landscaping Company
Look for a landscaping company that offers the services you need within your budget. You also want to know that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following factors in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
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Services Offered
Assess your landscaping needs before choosing a provider. If you need assistance with yard health and maintenance, look for one that offers lawn care services. These services may include mowing, fertilizing, mulching, pruning, and controlling weeds. Some companies provide additional pest control and tree removal services. You need a full-service landscaper if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as fire pits, retaining walls, or sprinkler or irrigation systems. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including gardening, adding hardscapes, and landscaping rock projects. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.
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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 The Bronx city government. It may have the following certified staff members:
- Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
- Licensed arborists
- Licensed horticulture specialists
- Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects
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Reputation and Reviews
Make sure you choose a contractor who gets good reviews from customers. 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. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including ones that frequently mention delayed projects, poor project results, or unreliable customer service.
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Work Portfolio
Ask to see a portfolio of your landscaping contractor's past work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share designs and projects with potential customers, including before and after images. You can ask for photos of past projects that are similar to your own design ideas so that you can get an idea of how your project will look.
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Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices can include waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation, and they're an important consideration when choosing a landscaping company. Landscaping work on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Additionally, your contractor should choose native plants, such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower. Ask your landscaper about sustainability practices for projects like yours, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.
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Cost
Request quotes from multiple companies to compare pricing and services. Most landscapers offer free consultations where they'll review your outdoor space, provide recommendations, and go over project ideas. A detailed quote will outline project costs such as materials and labor. You can use a quote to compare your options and sometimes negotiate a better price.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in The Bronx
What are warning signs of a bad landscaping company?
What are some benefits of landscaping?
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
What is a landscape designer?
How can I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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