Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Charlottesville, VA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

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

You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants. However, if you don't have basic lawn expertise or if you want to do a total yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a landscaping contractor.

Professional landscape architects and designers have the skill set to elevate your outdoor space and the expertise to create a long-term maintenance plan. Your local professional can explain 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 Charlottesville Landscaping Company

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

You should know what services you need before choosing a company. Some companies offer lawn care services focused on yard health and maintenance. These services may include pruning, controlling weeds, mulching, fertilizing, and mowing. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.

Look for a full-service landscaper for full-yard revamps or to install elements such as fire pits, retaining walls, or sprinkler or irrigation systems. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some provide lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.

Licensing and Experience

Most landscapers are trained and certified in various areas, such as horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Your provider should possess the appropriate licenses from the Charlottesville city government. It may also employ the following certified professionals:

• 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. These certifications aren't mandatory, but they’re an added bonus. Landscapers typically have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury. Any contractor you hire should be fully bonded and insured. Request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to verify coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

We recommend checking third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to gauge a company's reputation and customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of delayed projects, poor project results, or unreliable customer service. Try to choose a provider with positive customer ratings.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance companies have before and after photos of previously completed projects to demonstrate the quality of their work. Ask to see the company'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 water conservation, eco-friendly material options, and waste management. Landscaping contractors should select plant life native to your area—such as trumpet honeysuckle, climbing aster, and narrowleaf sunflower—for best results. Any work on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and provide recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.

Cost

You should request multiple quotes from different companies—this allows you to compare rates and services and can even help you negotiate a better deal. Many companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, discuss project plans, and provide recommendations. Your detailed quote should include information about various project expenses, such as materials and labor.

Landscaping Costs in Charlottesville

Landscaping in Charlottesville generally costs between $26 and $39 per hour. These figures depend on things such as project size and type. Bigger projects like resodding will be more expensive than simple lawn tasks like gardening or mowing. Pricing will vary based on your chosen materials. For a large yard, your provider may charge by the acre. Bigger projects necessitate more labor, which will increase the total price. The table below breaks down the average cost of common landscaping projects:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,455 - $16,606
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