Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Cincinnati, OH

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

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

You can do some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. However, you should hire a professional landscaper for things like a total yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you don't have the needed expertise.

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

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Cincinnati Landscaping Company

Look for a landscaping company that offers the services you need within your budget. Also ensure that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

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

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

Licensing and Experience

Landscapers often have advanced training and certification in areas like lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. A company should have the appropriate licenses from the Cincinnati city government. It might also 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 not mandatory, but a way to show a contractor's commitment to their profession. Landscaping companies should be fully insured and bonded. Contractors 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

You want a contractor who has a good reputation and positive customer reviews. Read both negative and positive reviews on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to get a feel for how a provider treats its customers. You want to avoid providers that have frequent mentions of delayed projects, unreliable customer service, or poor project results, or that have overall poor reviews.

Work Portfolio

Many landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share photos of previously completed projects with prospective customers. Ask to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, preferably ones that are similar to your own ideas. Companies often have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability practices are essential for any landscaping company. These include waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider should use native plant life—such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant—for best results. Any work completed on your property shouldn't impact existing vegetation. The company should advise of any 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 companies offer free consultations in which they'll review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and discuss project ideas. Your detailed quote should outline project costs such as materials and labor. You can use this quote to compare your options and sometimes negotiate a better deal.

Landscaping Costs in Cincinnati

In Cincinnati, you can expect to spend roughly $26–$39 for landscaping, depending on project type and size. Significant yard work such as resodding will be more expensive than easier tasks such as gardening and mowing. Factors like materials and the size of your yard will impact your final price. For larger yards, a provider might charge by the acre. Bigger projects will require more labor, which will increase costs. Here's the average cost of common landscaping projects:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,772 - $17,030
Landscaping Design	$1,987 - $2,649
Landscaping LandGrading	$418 - $2,506
Landscaping Mulch	$25 - $125
Planting FlowerBeds	$84 - $1,671
Planting Trees	$219 - $365
Sodding	$42 - $50
Swimming Pool	$31,748 - $83,548