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Brett TaylorWritten by

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Maria VierraEditor

Updated: Feb 12, 2025

Finding the right landscaping or lawn care professional in the Washington, D.C., metro area can feel overwhelming, especially with the region's diverse neighborhoods and property types. From the historic homes of Georgetown to the suburban yards of Bethesda, each area presents its own set of challenges and opportunities for outdoor improvement. Whether you're looking to create a low-maintenance landscape in Alexandria, upgrade your irrigation system in Arlington, or design a picturesque garden in Chevy Chase, hiring a skilled professional is essential to achieving your vision.

With hundreds of landscaping and lawn care experts operating in the Washington, D.C., area, choosing the right one is critical. The wrong choice can lead to wasted time, unmet expectations, and higher costs. This guide is here to simplify your decision-making process, helping you find professionals near you who offer expert knowledge, exceptional service, and an understanding of the Mid-Atlantic region’s unique climate and landscaping needs.

How to Hire a Landscaping or Lawn Care Professional

Hiring the right landscaping or lawn care expert in Washington, D.C. involves thorough research, planning, and a clear understanding of your goals. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process and exceptional results:

1. Determine Your Project Needs and Budget

  • Clearly define the scope of your project, whether it's a full landscape redesign, routine lawn maintenance, or installing an irrigation system. Write down your priorities, including any specific plants, materials, or features you'd like to include. Establish a realistic budget and leave room for unexpected costs—typically around 10–20% extra for contingencies.

2. Research and Shortlist Pros

  • Start by searching for landscaping and lawn care professionals in your area through trusted directories like The Builder Market. Look for pros with strong customer reviews, portfolios of completed work, and relevant certifications. Create a shortlist of candidates whose expertise matches your project's requirements.

3. Request Detailed Estimates

  • Get written, itemized estimates from each professional to compare costs and included services. Ensure that the quotes cover labor, materials, and any additional fees like permit applications. Beware of vague estimates, as they could lead to hidden costs later.

4. Check References and Past Work

  • Review portfolios of previous projects and follow up with references to ask about their experiences. Focus on punctuality, quality of work, and communication. If possible, visit completed projects in person to assess the quality of their craftsmanship and plant selections.

5. Ask the Right Questions

  • Checkmark icon How many years have you been in the landscaping or lawn care business?

    Checkmark icon Do you handle design, installation, and maintenance, or do I need separate contractors?

    Checkmark icon How do you approach sustainability (e.g., water-saving techniques, native plants)?

    Checkmark icon Do you use subcontractors, and if so, how do you vet them?

6. Understand the Contract Terms

  • Before signing a contract, review it thoroughly to ensure all project details are clearly outlined, including the timeline, budget, materials, and maintenance plans. Confirm warranty details for plants, irrigation systems, or any hardscaping features.

Our Recommendations

Cassella Design & Build
(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)4.9 (115 Reviews)

Casella Design & Build is a premier construction and design firm specializing in creating custom outdoor living spaces. Our services include landscape design, hardscape installation, and comprehensive construction solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, we strive to enhance the beauty and functionality of your property, turning your vision into reality.

Read more about Cassella Design & Build

Home Keys Landscaping
(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)4.9 (78 Reviews)

Home Keys Landscaping specializes in creating and maintaining beautiful outdoor environments for residential properties. Our services range from landscape design and installation to regular maintenance and lawn care. We are dedicated to providing personalized solutions that reflect the individual style and needs of our clients, ensuring their outdoor spaces remain vibrant and well-kept throughout the year.

Read more about Home Keys Landscaping

P&P Landscaping and Lawn Care
(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)4.8 (146 Reviews)

P&P Landscaping and Lawn Care is committed to maintaining and enhancing the beauty of your outdoor spaces. We offer comprehensive lawn care services, including mowing, fertilization, aeration, and seasonal clean-ups, as well as landscaping design and installation. Our goal is to keep your property looking its best year-round, providing services that promote the health and aesthetics of your landscape.

Read more about P&P Landscaping and Lawn Care

Perennial Contracting
(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)5.0 (18 Reviews)

Perennial Contracting LLC offers a wide range of contracting services, including landscaping, hardscaping, and general construction. Our team is dedicated to providing high-quality workmanship and exceptional customer service, ensuring each project meets the specific needs and expectations of our clients. We aim to build lasting relationships through reliability, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.

Read more about Perennial Contracting

StoneMan Construction & Landscaping
(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)4.7 (188 Reviews)

Stone Man Construction and Landscaping, provides superior quality landscaping service in a timely matter for your home or business. If you have a project, large or small be sure to call us for a free quote. Professional and expert snow removal solutions for both residential and commercial clients. Call to set up your winter snow removal services today! We are a full service landscape and hardscape design/build company based in Alexandria, Virginia. We specialize in designing, construction, and installation

Read more about StoneMan Construction & Landscaping

Let us connect you with the best pros for your projects.

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Most Common Projects & Costs

Landscaping and lawn care projects in Washington D.C. encompass a wide variety of services, from basic maintenance to full-scale outdoor transformations. Below is an overview of common landscaping and lawn care services, including estimated costs categorized into low, mid, and high ranges, as well as average hourly rates.

Product TypeLow RangeMid RangeHigh Range

Lawn Mowing (per visit)

$40$60$120+
Landscape Design$600$3,000$12,000+

Sod Installation (per sq. ft.)

$1.50$3.00$6.00+

Tree Trimming

$200$500$1,200+

Irrigation System Installation

$2,000$4,000$8,000+

Patio or Walkway Installation

$2,500$6,000$12,000+

Full Yard Makeover

$6,000$18,000$60,000+

Common Hiring Issues and Challenges When Working with Landscaping and Lawn Care Professionals (and How to Avoid Them)

Hiring a landscaping or lawn care professional can enhance your outdoor space, but challenges can arise during the process. Here are some common issues homeowners face and actionable tips to avoid or address them effectively:

1. Poor Communication

Problem: Miscommunication about design preferences, timelines, or budgets can lead to unsatisfactory results or delays.

How to Avoid:

  • Clearly articulate your vision during the initial consultation, using examples, photos, or sketches to convey your ideas.
  • Schedule regular progress updates to ensure alignment.
  • Document all agreements, including any changes in scope, to avoid misunderstandings.

2. Budget Overruns

Problem: Unexpected costs for materials or labor can cause projects to exceed the initial budget.

How to Avoid:

  • Request a comprehensive, itemized estimate before work begins.
  • Build a contingency budget (10–20%) for unforeseen expenses.
  • Discuss potential upgrades or add-ons during the initial planning stage.

3. Delayed Timelines

Problem: Weather delays, supply chain disruptions, or scheduling conflicts can push back project completion.

How to Avoid:

  • Choose a professional with a history of completing projects on schedule.
  • Ask about contingency plans for weather or supply issues.

4. Poor Workmanship

Problem: Using low-quality materials or poor craftsmanship can result in substandard results and additional costs for repairs.

How to Avoid:

  • Review portfolios of past work and check online reviews.
  • Periodically inspect the progress to ensure quality and adherence to plans.

5. Licensing and Insurance Concerns

Problem: Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured professional can expose you to financial and legal risks.

How to Avoid:

  • Verify that the professional is licensed and insured.
  • Confirm they carry general liability insurance and worker’s compensation if applicable.

6. Lack of Maintenance or Post-Project Support

Problem: Some professionals do not offer ongoing maintenance or warranties for their work.

How to Avoid:

  • Inquire about warranties for labor and materials before hiring.
  • Discuss options for regular maintenance services, such as seasonal lawn care or irrigation checks.

FAQs about Landscaping Pros

Before hiring, it's essential to ask questions that clarify their experience, qualifications, and services. Inquire about their expertise with projects similar to yours and request references from past clients. Confirm whether they are licensed and insured to protect against liability. Discuss timelines, costs, and materials, and ask about warranties for both labor and products. Additionally, ask if they offer ongoing maintenance plans to keep your yard in top condition year-round.

Check for strong online reviews, testimonials, and a portfolio of completed projects to assess reliability. Reliable companies often provide a written estimate with clear terms and timelines. Ensure the professional is licensed and insured and consider reaching out to references to ask about their experience. A dependable company will communicate openly and provide answers to your questions promptly.

Landscaping and lawn care professionals offer a wide range of services, including lawn mowing, fertilization, pest control, tree trimming, sod installation, irrigation system setup, hardscaping, and full- vard makeovers. Many also provide seasonal maintenance services. such as aeration, leaf removal, and preparing your yard for winter or summer.

The frequency of lawn care services depends on the season and the specific needs of your lawn. Weekly or bi-weekly mowing is common during the growing season, while fertilization and aeration may be needed a few times a year. Discuss your lawn's unique requirements with the professional to establish a customized schedule.

Permits are generally not required for basic lawn care or routine landscaping maintenance. However, large-scale projects like installing irrigation systems, retaining walls, or patios may require permits depending on local regulations. Confirm with the professional and your local government to ensure compliance.

Most landscape designers hold at least a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture, horticulture, or a related field. These programs often cover design principles, plant biology, environmental sustainability, and site analysis. While formal education is important, many designers also gain hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions. Some roles may not require a degree but value practical experience and a strong portfolio.

A landscape designer focuses on planning and creating outdoor spaces, balancing functionality with aesthetics. Their duties include meeting with clients to understand project goals, creating design plans (such as layouts for gardens, patios, or pathways), selecting plants and materials, and sometimes overseeing the installation process. They often work closely with contractors and horticulturists to ensure the project aligns with the client's vision and stays within budget.

A landscape architect specializes in large-scale outdoor projects, combining design, engineering, and environmental science. Their duties include developing master plans for public parks, urban spaces, and commercial properties. They also assess environmental impact, prepare construction documents, and ensure projects comply with zoning laws and building codes. Unlike landscape designers, architects often require licensure to practice.

Landscaping refers to the process of designing, modifying, and maintaining outdoor spaces to enhance their visual appeal and functionality. It involves elements like planting trees, shrubs, and flowers, as well as installing hardscapes such as patios, pathways, and water features. Landscaping can be aesthetic, practical, or environmental, often aimed at creating sustainable and visually pleasing outdoor environments.

How We Made Our Recommendations

Our goal was to create a reliable and trustworthy list of landscaping pros in Washington, D.C.. To ensure the highest quality recommendations, we followed a thorough and objective evaluation process based on the following criteria:

Verified Credentials

We began by confirming that every contractor held a valid and active license with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Additionally, we required proof of general liability insurance and worker' compensation coverage to protect homeowners from unexpected risks.

Customer Reviews & Satisfaction

We analyzed reviews from multiple platforms, including Google, Yelp, and Angi, to identify contractors with consistent positive feedback. Testimonials highlighting punctuality, professionalism, and quality of work were given significant weight in our recommendations.

Comprehensive Service Offerings

We included contractors capable of handling a wide variety of projects, from full-scale renovations and new home construction to specialized tasks like sustainable building practices or historic home restoration. A broad skill set ensures homeowners can find the right professional for their unique needs.

Transparent Pricing

Affordability matters, but transparency matters more. We recommended contractors who provide clear, itemized estimates that leave no room for surprises. Contractors who balance fair pricing with value-added services received higher consideration.

Awards & Industry Recognition

Membership in reputable organizations, such as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) or the Better Business Bureau (BBB), added credibility. We also factored in any industry awards or accolades that highlight exceptional craftsmanship or customer service.

Learn More about Our Contributors

Maria Vierra avatar

Maria VierraEditor

Maria Vierra is the lead designer at Vierra Fine Homes, bringing over two decades of experience in high-end residential design and construction. Her expertise and attention to detail ensure every project meets the highest standards of excellence, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.

Brett Taylor avatar

Brett TaylorAuthor

Brett Taylor is the co-founder of The Builder Market and a visionary entrepreneur in the home services and construction industries. With a passion for innovation, Brett has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing how professionals and homeowners connect and collaborate.