Anyone with a flair for design and the right tools can call himself a landscaper, but when you are hiring one to care for your home or business, you need to be certain that they have all of the skills you need to keep your space looking good. Here are the services offered with most comprehensive landscapers.
Design
Good landscaping starts with a good design. This is the first place to look when considering any landscaping provider. Ask if you can see pictures of past designs they have made, and also have them come to your location to create a design specifically for it. Compare the designs of several landscapers as you make the choice for the one that is best for your space.
Maintenance Services
Maintenance is one of the most important factors of any good landscape design. Not only do you need it to look good after it is planted and installed, but you need it to keep looking good for months and years after. Many designs can be somewhat self-maintaining, but you may want a landscaper that offers maintenance services in addition to installation services.
Drainage, Irrigation Systems, and Erosion Control
Water is essential to keeping your plants healthy and beautiful, yet it can be detrimental to your design if it washes away nutritious topsoil or mulch. Look for a landscaping expert that offers erosion control and drainage solutions along with irrigation systems. This will ensure that the water goes where you need it without damaging your design.
Grading and Stabilization
You may need to have your space graded, and this requires specialized equipment. Also, if you have a hilly yard, you may need hillside stabilization. These are services that require a professional company or service provider, so look carefully if you need them.
Planting Services
You would be hard pressed to find a local landscaper who does not plant plants, but make sure the one you are considering not only plants them, but also establishes them. You want to have your plants and lawn growing and thriving, not just planted. Look for a company that will educate you on how to continue to grow the plants or feed the lawn, or will have services to do this for you.
Decorative Touches
No landscape design is complete without some finishing touches. Look for a landscaper who does lighting, lays decorative mulch, and provides stonework for your yard. Pavers, patios, and edging can also fall into this category. Some companies stop with the plants, but you need someone who will go further than this if you are going to have a design you are thrilled with.
Restoration Services
Restoring your yard takes more talent than building a great design from scratch. The best landscaper is one who not only creates great designs, but can also restore them once they are left to their own devices for a while. If you find a company or service provider who is skilled at restoring damaged landscaping, you have likely found a good one.