DIY Options vs. Professional Services
While many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills, landscaping requires more specialized knowledge. Full-scale landscaping employs heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as irrigation systems or fire pits, need machinery and construction experience as well.
You can complete 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 complete yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you don't have the needed expertise.
Professional landscape designers and architects have the skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and create long-term plans for landscape maintenance. Contractors that offer lawn care services can help you improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making costly mistakes doing it on your own.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an The Bronx Landscaping Company
Reputation and experience are important considerations for choosing a landscaping company, but you also want to ensure that the provider offers the services you need within your budget. Consider the following factors when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Different landscaping companies serve different lawn needs. Some companies focus on services that help with yard health and maintenance, such as controlling weeds, fertilizing, mowing, mulching, and pruning. These companies often also provide pest management and tree cutting services.
A full-service landscaping company is the best choice if you're planning to revamp your whole yard or install architectural elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, and fire pits. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, such as landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some also offer lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Companies should have the appropriate licenses from the The Bronx 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
Reputation and Reviews
Make sure you choose a contractor with good customer reviews. You can look at third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to ensure 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 unreliable customer service, poor project results, or delayed projects.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance contractors are happy to share finished projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping projects and designs. They may also have before and after pictures to show off their quality work. Ask about finished landscape designs similar to your planned project to get an idea of how it will look.
Sustainability Practices
Ask your landscaper about their sustainability practices, including eco-friendly material options, waste management, and water conservation. Your provider should be able to explain its own sustainability practices and offer recommendations for sustainable maintenance, including how to reduce cost, water consumption, and waste. When planting vegetation, the company should select native area plants, such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower. Any work they complete shouldn't impact your existing vegetation.
Cost
Homeowners should request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best pricing and services. Most companies provide free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and review project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including labor and materials. You can use competing quotes to help negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in The Bronx
Generally, landscaping costs $26–$39 per hour in The Bronx. 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 like the size of your yard and the materials you choose will impact your final cost. For larger yards, companies might charge by the acre. Large-scale projects will require more labor, which will increase costs. The table below shows the average cost of common landscaping projects:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,499 - $16,665 |
Landscaping Design | $1,955 - $2,607 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $416 - $2,495 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $125 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $83 - $1,663 |
Planting Trees | $218 - $363 |
Sodding | $42 - $50 |
Swimming Pool | $31,605 - $83,171 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in The Bronx
What are warning signs of a bad landscaper?
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