Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Austin, TX

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

You may have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping requires advanced skills, heavy equipment, and intense labor. More complicated landscaping projects, such as adding an irrigation system or fire pit, also necessitate machinery and construction experience.

Do-it-yourself (DIY) landscaping works for smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants. However, you should consider hiring a professional landscaping contractor if you’re completing a yard overhaul or don’t have basic lawn expertise.

Professional landscape architects and designers can not only enhance your lawn but can also recommend cost-effective upgrades and help you develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. Contactors that also provide lawn care services can improve your lawn's health and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Austin Landscaping Company

Aim to hire a landscaper that offers the services you need at a reasonable price. Also ensure that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following factors in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

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

Choose a full-service landscaping company if you're planning a full revamp of your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. Full-service companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including adding hardscapes, landscaping rock projects, and gardening. They can also help install retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, fire pits, and other architectural elements. Some offer lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Most landscapers are trained and certified in various areas, such as lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. Your provider should possess the appropriate licenses from the Austin 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

Reputation and Reviews

Look for a contractor who has an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. Read both negative and positive reviews on third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau in order to get a feel for how a company treats its customers. You want to avoid companies that have frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service, or that have overall poor reviews.

Work Portfolio

Ask to see a portfolio of your landscaping company's past work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share projects and designs with potential customers, including before and after pictures. Ask to see photos of past projects that are similar to your own design ideas so that you can get an idea of how yours will look.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability is an important consideration during and after a landscaping project. Ask your provider about its best practices for eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management; you might also ask for maintenance recommendations. Landscapers should choose native plants (such as desert marigold, blackfoot daisy, and desert sand verbena) when planting new vegetation, and they shouldn't allow their work to affect your existing vegetation.

Cost

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

Landscaping Costs in Austin

Generally, landscaping costs $29–$44 per hour in Austin. These figures vary based on project size and type. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as mowing or gardening, will be less expensive than a larger project like resodding. Factors such as materials and the size of your yard will all influence your final price. For larger yards, companies might charge by the acre. Large or complex projects need more labor, which will increase costs. The table below shows the average cost of common landscaping projects: