Whether you need regular lawn maintenance, a complete landscape redesign, or hardscaping like patios and retaining walls, choosing the right landscaper makes all the difference. In Texas, where extreme heat and drought conditions challenge even the hardiest plants, you need someone who understands local conditions.
Quick Tips
- Get references and look at their past work in person
- Understand the difference between maintenance and design services
- Ask about experience with Texas-native and drought-tolerant plants
- Get everything in writing—scope, timeline, and price
- Verify insurance before any work begins
How to Find the Right Provider
Define Your Needs
Landscaping covers a wide range of services.
- Lawn maintenance: mowing, edging, fertilizing
- Landscape design: new plantings, layout
- Hardscaping: patios, walkways, retaining walls
- Irrigation: sprinkler systems, drip irrigation
- Seasonal services: leaf removal, winterization
Verify Insurance
Landscaping involves equipment and labor that can cause damage.
- General liability insurance covers property damage
- Workers' comp covers injuries on your property
- Request certificate of insurance
- Especially important for hardscaping and tree work
Check Experience and Portfolio
See examples of their actual work.
- Ask to see completed projects in your area
- Look for experience with Texas conditions
- Check if they specialize in your type of project
- Ask for references you can contact
Get Detailed Proposals
Compare written bids from multiple landscapers.
- Itemized list of plants, materials, and labor
- Plant sizes and species clearly specified
- Timeline for completion
- Warranty on plants and workmanship
Understand Maintenance Requirements
A landscape is only as good as its upkeep.
- Ask about watering requirements
- Understand ongoing maintenance needs
- Discuss maintenance packages
- Consider irrigation system costs
Red Flags to Watch For
- No insurance or won't provide certificate
- Can't show examples of past work
- Quotes without seeing your property
- Unusually low prices (may use inferior materials)
- No written contract or vague scope
- Demands large deposits upfront
- Recommends plants not suited to Texas climate
- No warranty on plants or workmanship
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
Are you insured?
Landscaping equipment can damage property. Verify liability and workers' comp coverage.
Can I see examples of your work?
Past projects show quality and style. Visit completed jobs if possible.
What plants do you recommend for my conditions?
Good landscapers know Texas conditions and recommend appropriate plants.
What's included in the price?
Get specifics on plant sizes, quantities, and what labor covers.
Do you offer a plant warranty?
Many landscapers guarantee plants for 30-90 days or a full season.
Who will do the actual work?
Know if they use employees or subcontractors and who supervises.
What to Expect to Pay
| Service | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Basic lawn maintenance (per visit) | $40 - $80 |
| Monthly lawn service | $100 - $250 |
| Landscape design (plan only) | $500 - $2,000 |
| Foundation plantings | $1,500 - $5,000 |
| Full landscape installation | $5,000 - $20,000+ |
| Paver patio (per sq ft) | $15 - $30 |
| Retaining wall (per linear ft) | $50 - $150 |
| Irrigation system | $2,500 - $5,000 |
| Sod installation (per sq ft) | $1 - $2 |
* Costs vary by location, job complexity, and market conditions.
Texas Landscaping Requirements
Texas doesn't require a general landscaping license. However, irrigation installers must be licensed by TCEQ, and pesticide applicators need a TDA license. Always verify insurance regardless of licensing requirements.
Licensing Agency: Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (irrigation) (Verify licenses)