business plan for starting a landscaping company

How To Start A Landscaping Business

Updated: Apr 29, 2024, 12:58pm

Table of Contents

1. create a plan, 2. register your business, 3. get your tax identification number, 4. open a business banking account, 5. set your rates, 6. market your business, reasons to start a landscaping business, bottom line, frequently asked questions.

Landscaping is a lucrative field. While starting a landscaping business isn’t the cheapest between the necessary tools, equipment and business registration fees, it’s not the most expensive either. It’s also pretty simple to get started in terms of legal requirements. We’ll walk you through how to start a landscaping business so you can launch your new business quickly.

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When starting a landscaping business, the first step is to create a plan. It doesn’t need to be as comprehensive as a traditional business plan, but it is worth outlining the areas in which you plan to serve, the services you plan to offer, any specializations you might have, the tools and equipment you need to get started, your budget, and a general idea of how you plan to market your business and acquire customers.

For example, here’s a list of items that you’ll need to start a landscaping business:

• Pickup truck: $30,766
• Mower: $350 to $1,499
• Trimmer: $169 to $249
• Edger: $109 to $119
• Blower: $109 to $409
• Two gas cans (one for regular fuel and one for mixed fuel for trimmers and edgers): $25
• Shovels: $13 to $34
• Shears: $13 to $32
• Rakes: $12 to $28
• Work gloves: $12 to $15
• Noise-canceling headphones: $89
• Safety goggles: $3 to $13
• Steel-toed boots: $76 to $83

Of course, you may need more tools if you have employees. For example, this might mean multiple blowers and edgers, and an assortment of rakes. On top of that, you’ll also need to have funds available for materials and products, such as fertilizer, pesticides, plants and flowers–depending on your customer’s needs.

Generally, it’s best to anticipate needing $10,000 to start your business, depending on the amount of equipment you already own. This includes the equipment needed, business formation, insurance, website development and an initial marketing campaign.

Establishing your business entity involves choosing a name and registering your business with the state. While you can choose to be a sole proprietor with a “doing business as” (DBA) name, you don’t give yourself liability protection from that structure. Establishing an LLC or corporation offers you more protection.

To establish an LLC or corporation, you’ll file the appropriate paperwork with the secretary of state after you run a name search. The name search ensures that you are not choosing a name that competes with an existing business. The paperwork establishes the LLC documents or articles of incorporation.

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With the paperwork you receive from the secretary of state, you will be able to file for a tax identification number (TIN) with the IRS. The TIN is similar to a Social Security number for your business and is necessary to open a bank account.

The TIN is free if you do it directly with the IRS. You can do so by submitting an online application .

With your TIN and business registration documents, you can open a business banking account.  It’s important to have a separate bank account because it keeps business income and expenses separate from your personal income and expenses. This prevents the commingling of funds, putting those funds at risk for liabilities. It also makes it easier to file your taxes when you have all of your income and expenses noted in one place.

You may also want to establish a relationship with a trusted payment gateway. The bank account will allow you to make cash and check deposits, but it won’t automatically process credit card payments. Using a service such as Stripe or Square will allow you to easily take all forms of payments. Expect to pay up to 3% on gateway transaction fees.

Next, set the rates you will charge for your services. If you’re not sure what the going rate is in your area it can be worth it to call other landscaping companies in your area to see what the average range of costs for services is. You may have one set of rates for weekly mow and blow services while charging another fee for actual landscaping costs, such as putting in new grass or plants.

A weekly mow and blow might cost anywhere from $45 to $100, depending on the size of the yard. Landscaping costs average around $4 to $12 per square foot on average. Landscape design work can cost $7,000 or more depending on the complexity and size of the project.

Make sure that your charges cover your overhead. Overhead includes the cost of fuel, supplies such as fertilizer and labor for any employees you have. If you have employees, you’ll be required to get workers’ compensation to cover them. Your rates should cover your costs and leave a profit for you.

Once you have the business established and know your services and rates, you can start to market your new company. A grassroots marketing plan might include knocking on doors to hand out business cards introducing people to your services. This is a good method as you can start to get weekly clients in the same neighborhood to reduce commuting costs and time on the road.

Here are a few leading ways to market your landscaping business:

• Build a website so you can get found online
• Create a Google My Business account to get found in local search results
• Create social media accounts, such as a Facebook Business Page
• Register with relevant online business directories, such as Angi, Yelp or Yellow Pages
• Local advertising, such as local newspapers
• Pay-per-click advertising, such as Google Ads or Bing Ads
• Word of mouth
• Local networking events and business associations
• Direct outreach to local businesses (if offering commercial landscaping services)

For example, setting up a business website is a key component in getting found online and acquiring customers. The good news is that it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money, nor does it need to take a lot of time. Learn more about how to easily set up a website .

Owning a landscaping business is a good way for someone already working in the industry to become their own boss and make a good living. The business allows you to meet and interact with different people regularly. On top of the pride of owning your own business, you get to own a business that helps the environment. The more people care for their lawns and gardens, the better it is for the environment. You get CO2-consuming trees and plants and help the good insects such as bees and butterflies survive. This is a gratifying aspect of landscaping.

Starting a landscaping business isn’t complicated, but it requires the proper tools and equipment to get the job done. Be sure to see what you already own and budget for purchasing tools to start your company. Start small and scale as you get more clients and generate more revenue.

How profitable is a landscaping business?

The average profitability of a landscaping business is 5%, but an efficient operation might generate up to a 12% profit.

How do I come up with a lawn care business name?

Generating a name can be challenging but try to think about what you do in a straightforward way. You want the company name to clearly state what you do so people don’t have to think about it. When you have a name chosen, run it through the state’s business name search to make sure another lawn care company isn’t using it.

What kind of education is needed to start a landscaping business?

Although no formal education is necessary to start and operate a landscaping business, there are some degrees and certifications that may help you attract customers. For example, some options are available for Bachelor of Science degrees in landscaping, specifically related to horticulture. You can also find organizations like the National Association of Landscape Professionals that offer landscape certifications in disciplines like lawn care management and landscape technician. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also offers certification programs, including system installation and maintenance and irrigation system design.

What is the job description for a landscaper?

A landscaper works on planting and maintaining flowers, trees, grass, hedges and bushes. They regularly mow and weed lawns and rake up leaves and debris accumulated on the property. The landscaper may also water and fertilize plants and grass. Many landscapers also install sprinkler systems.

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Kimberlee Leonard has 22 years of experience as a freelance writer. Her work has been featured on US News and World Report, Business.com and Fit Small Business. She brings practical experience as a business owner and insurance agent to her role as a small business writer.

Landscaping Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Landscaping Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your landscaping business plan.

We have helped over 10,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their landscaping companies.

Landscaping Business Plan Example

Below is a sample landscaping business plan and template to help you create each section of your landscaping business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service is a startup landscaping business located in Dallas, Texas. The company is founded by John Martinez, an experienced entrepreneur who has gained valuable knowledge on how to manage a landscaping business during the past five years while working as the manager at Lake Landscaping & Lawn Care. Now that John has experience managing a landscaping business, he is ready to start his own company, Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service. John is confident that his landscaping skills, combined with his understanding of business management, will enable him to run a profitable landscaping company of his own. John is recruiting a team of highly qualified professionals to help manage the day-to-day complexities of residential landscaping – sales and marketing, scheduling, customer service, financial management, and landscaper training and support.

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will provide a variety of professional landscaping and lawn care services for residential customers in Dallas, Texas. Beautiful Gardens will be the go-to landscaping business in Dallas for high-quality services of all kinds. The company will be the ultimate choice for prompt, reliable, and courteous customer service that goes above and beyond the competitors.

Product Offering

The following are the services that Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will provide:

• Lawn Care and Chemical Application
• Landscape Maintenance
• Landscape Design
• Landscape Construction
• Trimming and Pruning
• Trees and Ornamental Planting and Care
• Perimeter Pest Control
• Vegetation Management
• Gardening and Plant Care Consulting Services

Customer Focus

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will target homeowners in Dallas. The company will also target owners of multi-family residential buildings such as apartment complexes and condominiums. No matter the customer, Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will deliver the best communication, service, and high quality landscaping.

Management Team

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will be owned and operated by John Martinez. John is a graduate of Texas University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. He has over five years of experience working as a manager for another local landscaping business. John will be the company’s Chief Executive Officer. He will steer the vision of the business and provide direction for the other managers and executives of the company.

John has recruited a landscaping expert, Lisa Smith, to be the company’s Chief Operating Officer and help oversee the business operations. Lisa will handle the day-to-day operations, including training the landscape personnel, providing consultation services, and overseeing the landscape design process. Lisa is a graduate of California University with a degree in Landscaping Design.

John and Lisa have recruited an experienced marketing director, Robert Johnson, to become a member of the Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service management team. Robert is a graduate of the University of Maine with a Master’s degree in Sales and Marketing. John and Lisa rely on Robert’s expertise to execute the company’s marketing plan and advertising strategies.

Success Factors

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Skilled team of landscaping experts who will oversee the process and conduct inspections regularly to ensure all landscapers are adhering to stringent quality standards.
• Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service makes it easy for customers to obtain its services. The company uses a proprietary software application to engage with customers and ensure transparency throughout the process. Customers can use the app to schedule service, pay their bill, monitor the work being done, leave feedback, and receive customer support. For customers who prefer to communicate in person or over the phone, the company maintains an office space with a customer support representative available during regular business hours every day of the week.
• The company offers competitive pricing and discounts for regular customers.

Financial Highlights

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service is seeking $350,000 in debt financing to launch its landscaping business. The funding will be dedicated towards securing the office space and purchasing landscaping equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff and marketing expenses. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Office space build-out: $120,000
• Landscaping equipment, supplies, and materials: $80,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, utilities): $130,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $10,000

Company Overview

Who is beautiful gardens landscaping service.

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service is a newly established landscaping company in Dallas, Texas. Beautiful Gardens will be the go-to landscaping business in Dallas for high quality landscaping services performed by expertly trained professionals. The company will be the ultimate choice for prompt, reliable, and courteous customer service that goes above and beyond its competitors. Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will be able to provide a wide variety of services for homeowners who value high quality, reliable service and easy-to-use communication systems.

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will be able to guarantee the quality of its services thanks to the latest and most innovative landscaping project management technology and stringent quality control standards. The company’s team of highly qualified professionals are experienced in landscaping, lawn care, and gardening, thus will be able to provide exceptional results for a wide variety of services from routine maintenance to new landscape design and build-out. Beautiful Gardens also provides consulting services in the areas of landscaping, gardening, and lawn care.

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service History

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service is owned and operated by John Martinez, an experienced entrepreneur who has gained valuable knowledge on how to manage a landscaping business during the past five years while working as the manager at Lake Landscaping & Lawn Care. Now that John has experienced managing a landscaping business, he is ready to start his own company, Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service. John is confident that his landscaping skills, combined with his understanding of business management, will enable him to run a profitable landscaping company of his own. John is recruiting a team of highly qualified professionals to help manage the day-to-day complexities of residential landscaping – sales and marketing, scheduling, customer service, financial management, and landscaper training and support.

Since incorporation, Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service, LLC to transact business in the state of Texas.
• Has signed a lease to rent the office space.
• Reached out to numerous contacts to include previous employees, landscapers, friends, family, and professional networks to inform them of the new business.
• Began recruiting a staff of accountants, landscapers, and sales personnel to work at Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service.

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service Services

Industry analysis.

The United States Landscaping Services industry is valued at $128.8B and is expected to increase by 2.3% this year. There are more than 600,000 businesses and over 1M people working in the industry nationwide. The states of Florida, California, and New York have the most landscaping businesses of all the states, while Texans spend the most on landscaping services of all states.

Households with higher than average levels of disposable incomes (over $100,000 per year) spend the most on landscaping services for their homes. While these households reduce their spending on non-essential items during times of economic downturns, they are still more consistently spending on landscaping during these times versus lower income households. The number of households in the U.S. in this higher income bracket is expected to increase this year, resulting in growth opportunities for operators in the landscaping industry. Additionally, there is a rising demand for residential landscaping services from millennials and Gen Z consumers as more of them are participating in gardening activities.

The industry faces several challenges including shortage of quality labor, numerous price-based competitors, economic downturns, and high insurance costs. Industry operators can overcome these challenges and find success by researching their competitors, providing quality service by capable personnel, implementing a targeted marketing campaign, and charging fair prices for customers and employees.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

The precise demographics for Dallas, Texas are:

Customer Segmentation

Beautiful Gardens will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Homeowners with annual household incomes of $100,000 or more
• Owners of multi-family residential properties such as apartment complexes and condominiums
• Millennials and Gen Z homeowners who need help starting their own gardens

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will face competition from other landscaping companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Leif’s Lovely Landscaping Service

Leif’s Lovely Landscaping Service has been operating in the Dallas area for over ten years and has gained a loyal customer base for its excellent service and low prices. Leif’s provides residential homeowners with general landscaping and lawn care services. The company is a small operation and the founder does most of the landscaping work himself. Customers come to Leif’s for reliable, friendly service and the lowest prices in Dallas. The company offers lawn care and chemical application, mulching, tree trimming, and debris cleanup services.

Lake Landscaping & Lawn Care

Founded in 1990 by Henry Lake, Lake Landscaping & Lawn Care is a well-known landscaping and lawn care business that serves all of Dallas-Fort Worth and surrounding areas. The company offers a wide variety of services for residential homeowners. Services include regular lawn care, trimming, and maintenance, design, construction, and maintenance of landscaping features, and pool service. Lake Landscaping & Lawn Care is owned and operated by Henry Lake, an experienced contractor who designed some of the most prominent outdoor spaces in the area before starting his own business over 30 years ago.

Pete’s Perfect Landscaping

Pete’s Perfect Landscaping is a new Dallas-Texas based company providing services to customers throughout the city. The company was founded by Peter Smith, an experienced gardener who has been working in the landscaping industry for over 20 years before deciding to start his own landscaping company. Pete’s Perfect Landscaping provides a variety of landscaping services including pruning, trimming, planting, mulching, debris removal, and lawn maintenance.

Competitive Advantage

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will be able to offer the following advantages over its competition:

• Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service uses a proprietary software application to engage with customers and ensure transparency throughout the process. Customers can use the app to schedule service, pay their bill, monitor the work being done, leave feedback, and receive customer support.

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service makes it easy for customers to obtain its services. The company uses a proprietary software application to engage with customers and ensure transparency throughout the process. Customers can use the app to schedule service, pay their bill, monitor the work being done, leave feedback, and receive customer support.
• For customers who prefer to communicate in person or over the phone, the company maintains an office space with a customer support representative available during regular business hours every day of the week.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service is as follows:

Social Media Marketing

The company’s marketing director will create accounts on social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. He will ensure Beautiful Gardens maintains an active social media presence with regular updates and fun content to get customers excited about the company’s services.

Professional Associations and Networking

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will become a member of professional associations such as the Landscaping Association, American Gardening Society, and the Texas Lawn Care Association. The leadership team will focus their networking efforts on expanding the company’s vendor and client network.

Print Advertising

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will invest in professionally designed print ads to display in programs or flyers at industry networking events. The company will also invest in ads to display in industry publications and local newspapers.

Website/SEO Marketing

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will utilize the in-house marketing director that designed the print ads to also design the company website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all the services that Beautiful Gardens is able to provide. The website will also list information on the company’s events and testimonials from satisfied clients.

The marketing director will manage Beautiful Gardens’s website presence with SEO marketing tactics so that when someone types in a search engine “Beautiful Gardens” or “landscaping business near me”, Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will be moderate, but higher than low-end competitors so customers feel they receive value when purchasing the Company’s services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service.

• John Martinez will be the CEO of the company. He will oversee the management team and lead the direction of the business. John has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Lisa Smith – Chief Operating Officer who will manage the design and build process, train landscapers, and oversee the activities of the staff.
• Sam Garcia – Bookkeeper who will provide all accounting, tax payments, and monthly financial reporting.
• Robert Johnson – Marketing Director who will oversee all marketing strategies for the company and manage the website, social media, and outreach.
• Joe Williams – Quality Control Manager who will oversee all inspections of the landscapers to ensure stringent compliance with quality standards are met.

Milestones:

Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service will have the following milestones complete in the next six months.

11/1/2022 – Finalize lease on office space.

11/15/2022 – Finalize employment contracts for the Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service management team.

12/1/2022 – Begin build-out of the office and purchase equipment.

12/15/2022 – Begin networking at industry events and implement the marketing plan.

1/15/2023 – Finalize contracts for initial landscaping product suppliers and employment contracts for landscapers.

2/15/2023 – Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service officially opens its office up to customers and starts taking appointments.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Beautiful Gardens Landscaping Service are the fees charged to customers in exchange for the company’s services. When it comes to pricing, the business will monitor operational costs, average prices charged by competitors, and local market demand to ensure its prices will generate a healthy profit margin.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff a landscaping business. The expenses will be the payroll cost, utilities, landscaping equipment and supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Average number of appointments per month: 600
• Average fees per month: $15,000
• Overhead costs per year: $400,000

Financial Projections

Income statement.

Balance Sheet

Cash Flow Statement

Free Landscaping Business Plan PDF

You can download our free landscaping business plan template PDF here . You can easily complete your business plan using our Landscaping Business Plan Template here .  

Landscaping Business Plan FAQs

What is a landscaping business plan.

A landscaping business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your landscaping business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

What are the Steps To Start a Landscaping Business?

Starting a landscaping business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop a Landscaping Company Business Plan – The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed landscaping business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  

2. Choose Your Legal Structure – It’s important to select an appropriate legal entity for your landscaping company business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your landscaping business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Landscaping Business – Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your landscaping company with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options – It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your landscaping company, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location – Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees – There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Landscaping Company Equipment & Supplies – In order to start your landscaping business, you’ll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business – Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your landscaping company. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful landscaping company and how to write a landscape business plan:

How to Start a Landscaping Business

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Resources for Your Growing Business

How to start a landscaping business in 7 steps (2024 guide).

Landscaping is in high demand across the USA, creating a great opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to start their own businesses. You can enter the industry with relatively low start-up costs and not too much experience, and there’s plenty of potential to grow your company in the future. 

You can add more services and equipment as you expand, but having a clear business plan from the start helps your company start turning a profit right away. A business plan also sets up everything you need to grow quickly. We’ll explore the basics of how to start a landscaping company and the equipment, business requirements, and marketing strategies you’ll need to build a company that can grow with you.

Key Takeaways 

• Landscaping has relatively low start-up costs and plenty of growth opportunities.
• You can offer a wide array of services or choose to specialize in one type of landscaping.
• Factor in equipment, business, and labor expenses when estimating your start-up costs.
• Consider offering off-season services to keep your company working year-round.

Table of Contents

• Choose Your Niche and Service Offering
• Decide Whether To Buy or Rent Equipment
• Decide on Your Business Structure
• How Much Does It Cost To Start a Landscaping Business
• Select Your Business Name and Apply for Licenses/Permits
• Set Your Prices
• Market Your Small Business

Reasons for Starting a Landscaping Business

Get moving: launch your landscaping business.

• Frequently Asked Questions

There are a few decisions to make when starting your small landscaping business. These 7 steps outline the basic process for creating your landscaping company so you can start making a profit fast.

1. Choose Your Niche and Service Offering

Landscaping and lawn care services offer great potential for gaining recurring customers, but you may also face competition in profitable areas. Choosing the right niche and services helps you lock in the right customer base for your new business so you can make the most of your marketing efforts. 

Start by exploring other landscaping companies in your area to see what services they offer. You might decide to offer a wide array of services so you can reach the broadest possible customer base or you may prefer to specialize so you can differentiate yourself from your competitors.

Many landscaping businesses choose to focus on either landscaping or lawn care business, while others offer services from both groups. Some of these services include:

Landscaping:

• Design the outdoor layout (“landscape”) for a home or business
• Update existing landscaping for a client
• Improve “curb appeal” for houses that are going on the market
• Landscape design services for businesses that don’t have their own landscaper on staff
• Optional: “Hardscape” designs for rock sculptures, waterfalls, etc. 

Lawn Maintenance:

• Sod installation
• Mowing lawn services/weed-eating
• Trimming shrubs and hedges
• Applying fertilizer
• Seeding/hydroseeding
• Planting/plant care
• Bug and pest treatments
• Irrigation system maintenance and repair
• Lawn aeration

One of the benefits of starting a landscaping business is that it’s easy to add additional services as you grow, so you’re not locked into just the services you offer at the start. Some services like lawn mowing and weeding also need more regular maintenance (for example, many customers like to have their lawn maintenance done every week), so these services can be a great place to start. 

2. Decide Whether To Buy or Rent Equipment

The services you offer will dictate what equipment you need, but there are a few basics that almost every landscaping company requires. These include a vehicle and a small trailer so you can transport your equipment. If you only have a few pieces of equipment you may want to choose a van, but if you have more equipment (or if you’re planning to expand in the future), a small truck and trailer set-up may be a better fit. 

Some other common landscaping equipment include:

• Commercial lawnmower
• Leaf blower
• Weed wacker 
• Pruning shears
• Tree trimming equipment
• Shovels 
• Rakes 
• Wheelbarrows
• Safety equipment (goggles, gloves, safety earmuffs)

When deciding whether to buy or rent equipment, consider the demand for each service and your service schedule. For example, equipment that you’ll use regularly for a long time, such as a lawn mower, can quickly become expensive if you choose to rent. However, renting can be a helpful way to try out a few different equipment brands when you’re starting out so you can choose what you want to buy.

For more specialized equipment, like pesticide sprayers or tree trimming equipment, you may want to consider renting since demand is unlikely to be as high. If you’re able to schedule this work in a condensed period (for example, scheduling multiple tree-trimming jobs in 1 week) you can rent equipment that you don’t use as often. 

Purchasing second-hand equipment can also be a helpful way to save money. This is especially true for your work vehicle since there are usually multiple options. 

3. Decide on Your Business Structure

When you register your landscaping business, you’ll also have to decide on a business structure. There are 3 common structures for small businesses:

Sole Proprietorship

If you’re planning to run the landscaping company on your own, you’ll likely want to register as a sole proprietor. This is the simplest type of business structure where you’re responsible for all business decisions, profits, and losses.

Partnership

If you’ll be running your business with one or more other people, you may want to register as a partnership. Under this business structure, you’ll share business decisions and financial responsibility.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

In some cases, you might want your business to be registered as a separate entity from yourself. This means that in the event of a major loss, you won’t be personally liable. You can register as an LLC if you run the company alone or with partners.

4. How Much Does It Cost To Start a Landscaping Business

Start-up costs for a new landscaping business can be divided into 2 categories: equipment costs and business costs.

Equipment Costs

Your equipment costs include your vehicle, trailer, lawnmower, and any other equipment you’ll need for the services you offer. The total cost of equipment can vary greatly depending on whether you rent, buy new, or buy used.

Business Costs

You’ll have to pay a fee to register your business, which will vary depending on your state. You’ll also need a landscaping business license and you may need special licensing for some services, like for example pesticide application. Visit your local Chamber of Commerce for licensing fee information.

Before you start operating, you should also get business insurance that covers your equipment, labor, and liability. Although landscaping is fairly safe, having general liability insurance to protect yourself and your equipment can save you money in the long run.

You should also factor in the cost of software that you’ll need to run your business. Landscaping accounting software is key to time tracking, managing your expenses, billing your clients, and filing your taxes, so it’s worth including this in your initial start-up costs.

Optional and Additional Costs

Equipment and business costs are the minimum requirements for starting your landscaping business, but there are other expenses that you may want to invest in. Marketing is an optional cost but it can help customers find your business so you can expand and grow profits. Marketing costs can range from a basic website to promoting ads on social media.

If you’re doing the labor yourself, you’ll need to account for paying yourself. If you’re hiring employees, you’ll also need to factor in their wages when estimating your startup costs.

5. Select Your Business Name and Apply for Licenses/Permits

When selecting a business name, look for something that makes it clear what you offer and where you are. For example, including ‘landscaping’ in the name immediately lets potential customers know what you do. You can also include your name for a personal touch, or the name of your town or region so customers can easily find your business.

Next, you’ll need to register your business name and apply for a business license and permits. Licensing varies by state, so drop by your local Small Business Association or Chamber of Commerce for details on fees and how to apply for licensing and permits.

You’ll also need to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) so you can file your business taxes and open a business bank account.

6. Set Your Prices

Landscaping prices vary depending on region and services. A good place to start is by checking out your competitors so you can get a sense of standard rates in your area. Remember to account for your profit margin—it’s important to price low enough to stay competitive, but high enough that you’ll still be paid fairly.

There are 3 common pricing methods for landscaping: hourly, fixed, and square foot. 

Hourly Pricing

When you’re not sure how long a job will take, pricing by the hour ensures you’ll be fairly compensated for your labor.

Fixed Pricing

If you have a general sense of how long a job will take, consider offering a fixed price. This tends to be popular with customers because it’s a transparent pricing method that makes it easy to compare different companies.

Square Foot

For services like lawn mowing, weeding, and aeration, you can also charge by the square foot. This is helpful for larger areas like parks and commercial lawns. In general, landscaping costs between $4 to $12 per square foot, but this can vary greatly depending on your region and the services you’re performing.

No matter which pricing method you choose, it’s important to provide clients with professional estimates for any job. FreshBooks landscaping estimate templates make it easy to create quick, professional estimates for any landscaping work. Once the job is done, you can use a landscaping invoice template to create your final bill.

Also Read: How to Estimate Landscaping Jobs

7. Market Your Small Business

Once you’ve got your business set up, it’s time to reach your customers! Marketing is key to building your client base and expanding your new landscaping company. There are several marketing strategies you can use to attract customers, including:

Word of Mouth

Let your friends and family know that you’re offering landscaping services. Talking about your business also allows them to recommend you if anyone asks for a great landscaping company in the area. Going to local networking events also helps other people and businesses to get to know you and your services.

Build a Website

A website is the foundation of your marketing, so it’s important to have a clear design that lets clients know what you offer. Include your service list, prices, and contact information. It’s also helpful to have a section that tells your potential customers about yourself so you can start building a personal relationship with them. 

Once you have build a business website , make sure it’s search engine optimized so that Google and other search engines will display your company when people look for landscaping and landscape professionals in your area.

Social Media

Having a social media presence is a great way to reach a wide variety of people. You can showcase your work by sharing pictures on social media and you can also choose to use paid ads to boost your visibility.

Ask for Reviews

Sharing positive testimonials from customers can help promote trust and reliability. You can ask clients to review you on Google, Yelp, and other platforms, or you can ask for testimonials that you can share on your business website and social media.

Door-to-Door

Since your landscaping company will service a specific area, direct local marketing can help reach your target market of clients. Consider mailbox flyers or posters on community boards near your landscaping company.

Starting a landscaping business offers a great opportunity to build your own company with recurring clients and has plenty of growth potential. Since most landscaping requires regular maintenance, you can build personal client relationships that will provide you with a dependable income during the landscaping season. If you offer off-season work, like leaf clearing and snow blowing, there’s also the opportunity to work year-round.

It’s also easy to expand your landscaping company once you get started. You can start with a few services and then purchase more equipment and offer additional services later on, or you can expand the areas where you want to provide services. You can also hire more employees as you grow. 

Finally, running your own landscaping company gives you the flexibility to set your own schedule. Although it’s a good idea to maintain regular hours so you can work for recurring clients, you can pick the days and times that work best for you. It’s also a great opportunity to get outdoors, meet people in your community, and create rewarding client relationships.

With a few straightforward steps, you can start your own landscaping company and grow your business. Landscaping start-up costs are relatively low—you’ll need a vehicle and some basic equipment, as well as the proper licensing, registration, and insurance. Whether you opt for a comprehensive range of services to cater to diverse needs or specialize in specific areas to establish a niche, clarity in your offerings is key. Explore this insightful article on How to Start a Lawn Care Business for further guidance tailored to the lawn care industry.

FreshBooks expense tracking software makes it easy to organize your business expenses and profits so you can cut extra spending and focus on your most profitable areas. Try FreshBooks free to get started with your business accounting and grow your landscaping company today.

FAQs About Starting a Landscaping Business

Learn more about profit in the landscaping industry, challenges to running a landscaping business, and more with these answers to frequently asked questions about starting a landscaping company. 

How profitable is owning a landscaping business? 

Owning your own landscaping business can be quite profitable—many landscapers have a profit margin between 10 and 50 percent. This will grow as your business expands, and will also depend on your region and experience level.

What are the cons of owning a landscaping business? 

There are some downsides to owning a landscaping business. For example, depending on where you live, landscaping may be a seasonal business. This means downtime in bad weather and can also mean employee turnover. However, if you choose to offer off-season landscaping services, like snow removal, you can turn your landscaping company into an all-season business.

What part of landscaping makes the most money? 

Irrigation and lawn care tend to be 2 of the most profitable parts of a successful landscaping business. However, profitable services will depend on demand in the landscaping market in your area—you may need to try offering a few different services and seeing which are the most popular before you settle on a final model.

How much should you invest in your landscaping company? 

In general, you should expect to invest about $50,000 in costs for your first year running a landscaping company. This includes everything from labor and equipment to insurance and marketing but will vary a bit depending on your area.

How do I start a landscaping company from scratch?

When you start a landscaping company, begin by deciding what services you’ll offer and who your target market is. Then you can purchase the appropriate equipment and start setting up your business from there.

Sandra Habiger, CPA

About the author

Sandra Habiger is a Chartered Professional Accountant with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Washington. Sandra’s areas of focus include advising real estate agents, brokers, and investors. She supports small businesses in growing to their first six figures and beyond. Alongside her accounting practice, Sandra is a Money and Life Coach for women in business.

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How to Start a Landscaping Business: A Comprehensive Guide

If you have a green thumb and an entrepreneurial spirit, starting a landscaping business could turn your passion into a paying gig. And with 65% of landscaping businesses bringing in over $1 million a year , the financial rewards can be significant.

As an independent contractor, you’ll be your own boss and have the freedom to choose your projects and clients. You’ll also be responsible for managing your own time, resources, and finances.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to start a landscaping business step by step. From determining start-up costs to marketing your services, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get your business up and running.

FROM ONE OF OUR PARTNERS — Creating Your Own Landscaping Business Plan

Starting a Landscape Business: Is It Worth It?

If you have experience with landscaping and enjoy being outdoors, starting your own landscaping business can be a great career move. You’ll get to spend your days perfecting beautiful yards and gardens for your clients.

One of the best parts of owning a landscaping or lawn care business is the flexibility it offers. As your own boss, you set your hours and decide which jobs to take on.

There’s also a lot of room for growth. You can start small by offering basic lawn care services like mowing and weeding. Later, you can expand to include more intensive lawn maintenance tasks like planting, mulching, and even hardscaping. Some landscaping businesses branch out into areas like tree care or snow removal. And you can hire more workers to help you manage these bigger projects.

However, it’s important to recognize that landscaping can be hard physical work. Working as a landscaper requires a lot of lifting, bending, and kneeling, and you’ll be outside in all kinds of weather. But if you don’t mind breaking a sweat and getting your hands dirty, it can be a very rewarding career.

Another challenge of the landscaping business is that it can be seasonal, especially if you live somewhere with cold winters. You might be very busy in the spring and summer but have less work in the fall and winter.

Overall, starting a landscaping business is a great option if you love being outside, don’t mind physical work, and want to be your own boss. With hard work and dedication, you can make a good living creating beautiful outdoor spaces for your clients.

FROM ONE OF OUR PARTNERS — 13 Lawn Care & Landscaping Industry Trends

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Landscaping Business? Equipment and Other Expenses

The exact costs of starting a landscaping business depend on the size of your business, the services you offer, and the market you’re in, among other factors.

Tools 

Landscaping equipment is one of the biggest expenses to consider. So, what do you need to start a landscaping business? Necessary tools include:

• A commercial lawnmower
• String trimmers
• Leaf blowers
• Hedge trimmers
• Pruning shears
• Wheelbarrows
• Planting augers
• Seed spreaders
• Safety gear, such as gloves, boots, safety glasses, and ear protection
• Irrigation equipment, such as hoses and sprinklers

You may need all or just some of these tools, depending on the size and scope of your landscaping company. But you may need to invest in additional equipment and tools to take on more complex projects as you grow.

Insurance 

Another necessary cost of owning a landscaping business is insurance. Most landscaping businesses pay a median of about $45 per month for general liability insurance. Your costs may vary based on a few factors. These include your landscaping services, equipment and property, revenue, location, and number of employees. Get quotes from several providers to find the best coverage at the most affordable price.

Startup Costs

A good rule of thumb is to expect to spend at least $5,000 to $10,000 to get your landscaping business up and running. If you need a work truck or other expensive equipment, your startup costs could be $15,000 or more.

When you’re just starting out, consider renting equipment instead of buying it. This can help keep your startup costs lower. You can buy your own equipment when it seems like a better use of your revenue.

RELATED ARTICLE — How to Grow a Fencing Business

Starting a Landscape Business in 9 Simple Steps

By following these nine simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to running a successful landscaping company:

1. Create a Business Plan

Before you start your landscaping business, it’s essential to create a business plan . At the least, it should include the services you’ll offer, your target market, and pricing. Having a clear plan in place will help you stay focused and on track.

2. Choose a Business Structure

Next, you’ll need to decide on a business structure . The most common options are sole proprietorship, partnership, and LLC. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so do your research to choose the best one for your needs.

3. Register Your Business

Next, you’ll need to register your business with your state and get licenses and permits required in your area. Check with your local and state governments for specific requirements.

4. Invest in Equipment and Supplies

You’ll need to invest in high-quality equipment and supplies. This includes things like mowers, rakes, shovels, and a truck to transport your equipment.

FROM ONE OF OUR PARTNERS — The 7 Best Commercial Lawnmowers for Landscapers 

5. Determine Your Pricing Strategy

Setting the right prices for your services is key to running a profitable business. Research what other landscaping companies in your area are charging. Make sure your prices are competitive while still earning a profit.

RELATED ARTICLE — Landscaping Pricing Guide: How to Price Landscaping Jobs

6. Make a Marketing Plan

Marketing is essential for attracting new customers to your landscaping business. Consider creating a website, using social media, and networking with potential clients to get the word out about your services.

7. Buy Insurance

Make sure your landscaping business is properly insured to protect yourself and your assets. This may include general liability insurance, commercial auto insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance (if you have employees).

8. Build a Strong Team (Optional)

As your landscaping business grows, you may decide to hire employees to help you keep up with demand. Look for reliable, skilled workers who share your commitment to quality work and top-notch customer service.

9. Keep Learning

Landing a client base doesn’t mean you get to stop progressing. The landscaping industry is always changing, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques. Consider attending workshops or taking courses to improve your skills and stay competitive. Be open to adapting your business strategies as needed to meet the changing needs of your customers.

RELATED ARTICLE — How to Make an Invoice for Landscaping Jobs (with Free Template) 

6 Ways to Market Your Landscape Business Successfully

Marketing is key to growing your landscaping business and attracting new customers. Here are some effective ways to approach it:

1. Develop a Professional Website

In today’s marketplace, a professional website is just about mandatory. Your website should showcase your services and skills, include photos of your work, and make it easy for potential customers to contact you online.

2. Leverage Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool for promoting your landscaping business. Create profiles on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). Post regularly about your services and show off your favorite projects. Engage with your followers and respond to any questions or comments to show your dedication to your customers.

3. Encourage Customer Reviews and Referrals

Word-of-mouth is one of the best ways to attract new customers. Encourage your satisfied customers to leave reviews on your online accounts, like Google reviews. You can also offer incentives for referrals, such as discounts or free services.

4. Network With Local Businesses and Communities

Offline networking can also help you build your client base. Get involved in your local community by attending events, joining business associations, and partnering with other local businesses. For example, you could partner with professional painters to provide full makeovers of houses, from exterior walls to the gardens. This can help you build relationships with more potential customers, other businesses in your community, and get your name out there.

5. Invest in Targeted Advertising

While word-of-mouth is great, sometimes you need to invest in advertising to reach new customers. Consider running ads in local newspapers, on social media, or on search engines. Make sure to target your ads to your ideal customers and track results so you can see what works.

6. Wrap Your Vehicle With Eye-Catching Branding

If you have a company vehicle, consider wrapping it with your logo and contact info. This turns your vehicles into moving billboards and can help you get noticed around town. Make sure your branding is clear, easy to read, and memorable.

RELATED ARTICLE — Accepting Credit Card Payments as a Home Service Contractor

Make Collecting Payments the Easiest, Most Efficient Part of Your Business

Starting your own landscaping business is enough work without having to worry about how you’ll get paid.

We’ve made it incredibly simple to accept online payments from your clients. Simply issue your invoice, switch on Payments, and get paid! You’ll cut cash flow delays, spend less time tracking down payments, and be able to collect down payments on-site.

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How To Start a Small Business at Home: Step-By-Step Guide

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The Contractor’s Toolbox – October 2023

How to Start a Landscaping Business in 10 Easy Steps

• Jobber Blueprint /
• How to Start a Landscaping Business

Starting a landscaping business gives you the flexibility to work on the jobs you want, when you want to. You’ll create beautiful outdoor spaces for your clients and bring in big money doing it.

In this article, we’ll cover how to start a landscaping business that turns a profit. And how to grow the business over time.

Here’s how to start a landscaping business:

• Write a landscaping business plan
• Register your landscaping business
• Get the right insurance
• Open a business bank account
• Choose which landscaping services to offer
• Purchase landscaping equipment
• Price your landscaping services
• Get your first customers
• Hire landscapers and grow your business
• Plan for off-season

1. Write a landscaping business plan

A business plan is like the map to your success. It keeps you moving in the right direction and helps attract investors to secure funding.

Your landscaping business plan should include:

• A cover page that includes your landscaping business name, logo, and contact information.
• An executive summary that gives a quick overview of your business. It should include what makes you different from other businesses in the landscaping industry.
• A business overview that summarizes your business structure and work history or experience.
• A landscaping services list and how you plan to price your services.
• A market analysis that describes who your ideal customers are.
• A competitive analysis that lists other landscaping businesses in your area.
• A marketing strategy that explains how you plan on attracting new customers.
• A financial plan that includes your sales forecast, budget, and any employee costs.

Create your own landscaping business plan. Download our free business plan template .

READ MORE: 9 Landscaping business tips to improve operations

2. Register your landscaping business

Pick a landscaping company name , register your business, and get a business license. 

Here’s what that process looks like:

Choose a business structure

Before you do anything else, choose a business structure . You’ll need that information for the rest of the business registration process.

Here are your options:

• Having sole proprietorship (U.S., CA) or becoming a sole trader (UK, AU) allows you to run your business alone and have complete control over it. This is the most common option for individuals starting a landscaping business.
• Register as a partnership (U.S., CA, UK), or form a joint venture or co-operative (AU) if you’re starting your business with two or more self-employed people.
• If your business has medium or high liability risk, register as a limited liability company or LLC (U.S.), corporation (CA), limited company or limited partnership (UK), or company (AU). This will help protect your personal assets in case of legal problems.

READ MORE: Should I incorporate my small business?

Register your business name

Next, register your business with your regional government. You can do this at any local registry. 

All you need is the registration fee and a name that’s unique, simple to spell, and easy to remember.

Here’s how the registration process will look for you, depending on your country:

• United States: Trademark your business name and register your domain name .
• Canada : Register and trademark your trade name to protect your brand. However, if the business’s name is the same as your personal name, you don’t need to register it.
• United Kingdom : Decide if you’re a sole trader or business partnership, check name availability , search for a trademark, and register the company name and business.
• Australia : Register your business name through the Business Registration Service , ASIC , or a private service provider . You don’t need to register your business if you use your personal name as your business name.

Get a landscaping license

You may be required to have a landscaping license (or a gardening license) in your city or state. If you do need one, don’t start landscaping homes or businesses without it.

Your business license will have an up-front cost, and you’ll need to renew it every year. The cost will depend on the type of license you need and what services it allows for.

Head over to your city or state website and look for information about business licenses. You can also find other local regulations by googling “YOUR CITY NAME + business laws.”

Get your employer identification number

If your business is a partnership or has employees, you may need to apply for an employer identification number (U.S.) or business number (CA). You’ll use this unique ID when tax time comes around.

How much does it cost to start a landscaping business?

You can expect to spend about  $1,760–3,065 (USD)  getting your landscaping business up and running:

• Registration and business license ($75–400)
• Business insurance  ($600)
• Landscaping business software  ($400)
• Equipment ($685–1,665)

Expect to add another  $30,000  to that if you also need to buy a truck or trailer.

Check with your bank to see if you’re eligible for a business loan or personal loan, or apply for a landscaping or  lawn care grant .

READ MORE:   How to start a lawn care business

3. Get the right insurance

Business insurance protects you from potential damages, injury, or other accidents.

The most common types of small business insurances you’ll need are:

• General liability insurance to cover personal injury or damage to a client’s property.
• Commercial property insurance for damage to your landscaping equipment or business property.
• Commercial auto insurance for work trucks involved in an accident or other damage.
• Workers compensation insurance to cover injury to an employee on the job.

Work with your insurance provider to create a custom business owner’s policy with the coverage you’ll need to run your business.

4. Open a business bank account

Set up a business bank account and get a business credit card. Separate bank accounts will keep your business expenses separate from your personal ones. 

This will also make your life easier when it comes time to file your taxes.

5. Choose which landscaping services to offer

Before you pick which landscaping services you’ll offer, decide whether you’ll serve residential clients, commercial clients, or both.

Homeowners and businesses have different landscaping needs, so choose the one that best fits your skills.

From there, you can choose to provide services like:

• Landscape design (or landscape architecture) involves planning and designing outdoor living spaces. This can be a standalone service or part of a bigger landscaping project.
• Hardscaping includes any “hard” elements of a landscape design, like patios, decks, fences, paths, and water or fire features.
• Softscaping deals with plant life in a space, from grass and flowers to bushes and trees. This could include planting, turf, grading, and even plant removal.

You can also provide lawn maintenance services like mowing, edging, weeding, and fertilizing.

Pro Tip: Check with your state or municipality to see if you need a landscaping license to perform certain services. For example, landscapers in California need a state license for any job that exceeds $500.

6. Purchase landscaping equipment

These are the essential landscaping tools you’ll need to tackle your first jobs:

• Weed whacker
• Leaf blower
• Hedge trimmer
• Lawn aerator
• Broadcast spreader
• Pressurized sprayer
• Wheelbarrow
• Shovel, spade, hoe, and rake
• Pruning shears
• Tool kit (hammer, screwdriver, etc.)
• Small gardening tools (weeder, trowel, etc.)
• Garden hose and nozzle
• Landscaping gloves
• Safety goggles and earmuffs
• Steel-toed boots
• Bucket (to carry smaller tools)
• Cargo net (for vehicle)

Download your free landscaping tools checklist to remember everything you need to purchase.

Curious about what kind of equipment a successful landscaping and lawn care company uses to get their jobs done? We asked Brian Boase from MIL-SPEC Landscaping to open his shop doors to give you an inside look at his tools and setup. 

READ MORE:   How MIL-SPEC Landscaping went from 0 to 60 clients a week

Invest in landscaping business software

Landscaping business software can help you save time managing your business.

Here’s how Jobber’s landscaping business software can help your business run smoothly:

• Create and send professional quotes that include photos taken at the site assessment. You can also suggest premium landscaping materials, like mulch or crushed stone.

• Schedule landscaping jobs and generate the fastest, most fuel-efficient routes.

• Keep clients informed before, during, and after the job. Send appointment reminders, on-my-way text messages, and automated follow-ups.

• Instantly create accurate invoices and get paid faster with convenient credit card processing.

7. Price your landscaping services

Pricing landscaping jobs might feel challenging when you’re just getting started. Use these tips to help you set fair and profitable prices:

• Think about how many hours the job will take, then multiply by your hourly rate.
• Calculate the total material costs for the service (e.g., plants, rocks). This should also cover any equipment rentals you might need.
• Add up your overhead costs (e.g., rent, marketing, utilities). Then divide this amount by the number of weekly labor hours worked. This gives you the amount of overhead you need to charge for every hour of labor.
• Factor in your profit margin . This allows you to profit from a service. Charge a 15–20% markup for residential clients and 10–15% for commercial ones.

FREE TOOL: Try our free profit margin calculator

8. Get your first customers

Marketing helps you reach potential clients and show them what you have to offer.

Start by setting a budget that you can afford. Then create a marketing plan that describes the landscaping marketing strategies you’ll invest in, like these:

• Create a look for your company ( a brand ) that’s recognizable by potential clients. Use a tool like Looka to design a logo, pick your fonts and company colors, then order matching business cards, uniforms, and vehicle decals.
• Set up Facebook and Instagram business accounts. Then share before-and-after images of completed landscaping projects to connect with new customers.
• Start a customer referral program and ask satisfied clients to write reviews .
• Build a landscaping website and attract potential customers to it through Google’s Local Services Ads .
• Claim your free Google Business Profile. Add your contact information, landscaping services, service area, and working hours.
• Send out landscaping and lawn mowing flyers in the neighborhoods where you’d like to work.

Some of these ideas might work better for you than others. Give each of them a try, then focus on the ones that bring in the most new residential or commercial landscaping clients.

READ MORE: Commercial lawn care contracts: how to price, bid, and win them

9. Hire landscapers and grow your business

When you’re turning away work because you’re too busy, it might be a good idea to hire your first employee .

This will free up more time for you to focus on running and growing your business .

Here’s how to hire lawn care employees and landscapers :

• Write a landscaper job description and post it on social media and job search websites
• Prepare questions to ask a new employee and interview qualified applicants
• Check applicants’ references and ask them to get a police background check
• Choose the applicant you’d like to hire and offer them the position
• Schedule the landscaper’s first day of work and train them to do the job properly

FREE TOOL: Find out how much to pay your landscapers

10. Plan for off-season

If you live in an area with cold fall and winter months, think about how you can generate revenue and keep employees busy during those off-seasons.

You may consider adding fall and winter landscaping services , like:

• Leaf removal
• Gutter cleaning
• Snow removal
• Christmas light installation

These services can help you stay profitable from late fall to early spring.

You can also use the time to:

• Update your business plan
• Market your services to new customers
• Clean or maintain your landscaping equipment
• Put new processes in place (like landscaping business software ) 

READ MORE: 21 best apps for lawn care business owners (free and paid)

Why should you start a landscaping business?

The landscaping industry is in high demand. The total amount of money made by landscaping services in the U.S. is 176.5 billion dollars .

Starting a landscaping business lets you use your creativity to design and maintain beautiful spaces. It’s also an opportunity to be your own boss, set your own business hours, and grow a profitable business.

READ MORE: 25 landscaping industry statistics and trends to watch

Ready to get your hands dirty? Use the steps above as your checklist to start your own landscaping business today.

Originally published in May 2022. Last updated on January 24th, 2024.

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Landscaping Business Plan: How to Write It and What It Is

• Last Updated: October 27, 2022

A landscaping business plan is a document that outlines the goals, strategies, and financial projections for a landscaping company. It is important to have a business plan in place before starting a landscaping business, as it will help you to map out the potential growth and financial stability of the business. 

Starting a landscaping company can be more difficult than it looks. If you have a plan, it can make the journey much easier. This blog will be your guide to start a landscaping business and write your landscaping business plan .

Table of Content

• How to Write an Effective Landscaping Business Plan?

Why Do You Need a Business Plan?

Landscaping business plan template, how to write an effective landscaping business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for any business, and a landscaping business is no exception. Your plan should outline your business goals, strategies, and financial projections. It should be clear, concise, and easy to understand.

For your landscaping business to succeed, it’s important to put together a comprehensive lawn maintenance business plan. This should include a market analysis, an overview of the landscaping industry, your business goals and objectives, and a detailed plan for how you intend to achieve success.

Finally, your business planning should include a detailed action plan for how you intend to achieve your goals. This should include information on your marketing and advertising strategy, your sales and growth strategy, your competitor analysis, and your financial goals.

By taking the time to put together a comprehensive lawn maintenance business plan, you’ll be setting yourself up for success in the landscaping industry. There are a few key things to keep in mind when writing your landscape company business plan :

1. Define your business goals

When you’re putting together your landscaping business plan, one of the most important things to do is to define your business goals. 

• What do you want to achieve with your landscape businesses? 
• What are your long-term and short-term goals? Be specific and realistic in your goals.
• Are you hoping to grow your company to a certain size? 
• Are you hoping to serve a certain number of clients? 
• Are you hoping to achieve a certain level of profitability?

No matter what your specific goals may be, it’s important to write them down and make them a part of your business plan. Having clear and defined goals will help you to create a roadmap for your business, and it will also help you to measure your progress over time.

Also, make a company description that suits the market trends, covers all necessary information about your landscape business, and the lawn services you provide.

2. Outline your strategy

How are you going to achieve your business goals? What are your marketing plan and sales strategies? What are your operational plans?

This will give potential investors an idea of what you hope to achieve with your business, and who your target customers are. You will need to include a detailed business model, outlining how you plan on generating revenue and making a profit. 

• A mission statement is a brief, clear statement of an organization’s purpose, goals, and priorities. 
• A personal savings plan is a way to set aside money each month to reach your long-term savings goals. To be thorough, you need to have a complete understanding of all the details involved in your project. This will include things like pricing strategies, marketing initiatives, and operational costs. Using free project management templates can help you stay organized and ensure no key information gets overlooked.
• Your market analysis should take into account the current state of the economy and the landscaping industry, as well as your target market. Who will your new customers be? What are their needs and wants? What are the trends in the landscaping industry? This information will help you to determine your prices and position you for your business success.

3. Make financial projections

What are your revenue and expense projections? What are your capital requirements? Make sure your financial projections are realistic and achievable.

You will need to put together a solid financial plan, which will include your start-up costs, financial projections, and a strategy for securing funding. This is arguably the most important part of your business plan, as it will show potential investors whether or not your business is viable.

Many landscaping companies, to ensure they get repeat customers, keep their gross margin less for old customers compared to new customers. This method helps them retain old customers and maintain cash flow.

4. Write a clear and concise business plan

Your business plan should be easy to understand and free of jargon. Make sure to include all the key components outlined above. A company summary is a brief landscaping business description , its history, products and services, and your current situation which makes it easy to apply for bank loans.

As you sit down to write your landscaping business plan, keep in mind that its purpose is to communicate your vision and guide your business’s growth. With that in mind, here are a few tips to help you write a clear and concise business plan:

• Keep it short and sweet. No one wants to read a 100-page business plan. Keep your plan concise and to the point.
• Paraphrase sections of your business plan that sound less impactful. A paraphraser tool can help you avoid repetition in your write-up and allows you to express your ideas in a new way while maintaining the original meaning.
• Communicate your vision. Your plan of action should articulate your vision for your business. What are your long-term goals? What sets your business apart from the competition?
• Be realistic. Don’t over-promise and under-deliver. Be realistic in your projections and goals.
• Do your research. Make sure you have a good understanding of your market and your competition.
• Get help. If you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of resources available to help you write your business plan.

By following these tips, you can be sure that your landscaping business plan is well-rounded and will give you the best chance of success.

If you’re thinking about starting a landscaping business, you need a solid business plan. This plan should include a summary of your business, your marketing plan, and a financial forecast.

Your business plan should be thorough and cover all aspects of your business, from your market analysis to your pricing strategy. Your marketing plan should detail how you plan to reach your target market, and what methods you’ll use to promote your business. And finally, your financial forecast should outline your expected expenses and income.

With a proper business plan that includes your landscaping business plan summary, you’ll be on your way to starting a successful landscaping business.

There are many reasons why you might need a business plan. 

• Perhaps you are looking to start a new business and need to lay out your goals and strategies. 
• Or maybe you are already running a business and need to take it to the next level. 

Whatever the case may be, a business plan can be a helpful tool.

• A business plan can help you to articulate your business idea, set realistic goals, and map out a path to achieving them. 
• It can also force you to think about potential risks and how to mitigate them. 
• And if you are seeking financing from investors, a business plan can be essential in convincing them to invest in your business.

So, if you are thinking about starting a business, or taking your existing business to the next level, consider to write a business plan. Having a well-executed business plan is key to success. 

Make sure you do your research and put together a plan that takes into account your start-up costs, marketing strategy, and financial goals. By taking the time to plan, you’ll put your business on the path to success.

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A landscaping business plan template can be a great resource for those looking to start their own business. 

• This type of template can help you to create a well-organized and professional-looking business plan. It can also provide you with a framework to follow as you develop your business plan. 
• Additionally, a landscaping business plan template can help you to identify and assess the potential risks and opportunities associated with starting a landscaping company. Creating a business plan template for landscaping businesses can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. 

Free PDF Template of Landscaping Business Plan

When it comes to starting a successful lawn care business, having a well-thought-out business plan is essential. But what can you do to give your lawn care business a competitive advantage?

• One way to stand out from the competition is to offer landscaping services that they don’t. For example, if you’re starting a lawn care business in a suburban area, you could focus on offering organic lawn care services.
• Another way to set your business apart is to focus on customer service. This could mean offering a money-back satisfaction guarantee or providing free consultations to potential clients.
• In terms of detail, it is important to include enough information to give a clear overview of your landscaping business. However, you don’t want to include so much detail that the plan becomes cumbersome. A good rule of thumb is to keep the business plan to around 30 pages.
• As for frequency, it is generally a good idea to update your business plan on an annual basis. This ensures that your plan stays relevant and reflects any changes in your business. However, you may need to update it more frequently if your business is growing rapidly.

We hope our blog post on the landscaping business plan provided some guidance on the subject. You will get complete help in writing a business plan for your business. Once you start your landscaping business, all you need is a software solution to automate your business and its business operations. 

FieldCamp is the best landscape business software for automating routine landscaping operations and is an essential component for the long-term success of the lawn maintenance business. The software helps businesses streamline all the operations, including job scheduling, invoicing, payments, and reporting. Know how this software solution helps your landscaping business streamline operations by starting your 7-day FREE trial.

Gaurang Bhatt

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How To Write a Successful Landscaping Business Plan + Template

Creating a business plan is essential for any business, but it can be especially helpful for landscaping businesses that want to improve their strategy and/or raise funding.

A well-crafted business plan not only outlines the vision for your company, but also documents a step-by-step roadmap of how you are going to accomplish it. In order to create an effective business plan, you must first understand the components that are essential to its success.

This article provides an overview of the key elements that every landscaping business owner should include in their business plan.

Download the Ultimate Landscaping Business Plan Template

What is a landscaping business plan.

A landscaping business plan is a formal written document that describes your company’s business strategy and its feasibility. It documents the reasons you will be successful, your areas of competitive advantage, and it includes information about your team members. Your business plan is a key document that will convince investors and lenders (if needed) that you are positioned to become a successful venture.

Why Write a Landscaping Business Plan?

A landscaping business plan is required for banks and investors. The document is a clear and concise guide of your business idea and the steps you will take to make it profitable.

Entrepreneurs can also use this as a roadmap when starting their new company or venture, especially if they are inexperienced in starting a business.

Writing an Effective Landscaping Business Plan

The following are the key components of a successful landscaping business plan:

Executive Summary

The executive summary of a landscaping business plan is a one to two page overview of your entire business plan. It should summarize the main points, which will be presented in full in the rest of your business plan.

• Start with a one-line description of your landscaping company
• Provide a short summary of the key points in each section of your business plan, which includes information about your company’s management team, industry analysis, competitive analysis, and financial forecast among others.

Company Description

This section should include a brief history of your company. Include a short description of how your company started, and provide a timeline of milestones your company has achieved.

If you are just starting your landscaping business, you may not have a long company history. Instead, you can include information about your professional experience in this industry and how and why you conceived your new venture. If you have worked for a similar company before or have been involved in an entrepreneurial venture before starting your landscaping firm, mention this.

You will also include information about your chosen landscaping business model and how, if applicable, it is different from other companies in your industry.

Industry Analysis

The industry or market analysis is an important component of a landscaping business plan. Conduct thorough market research to determine industry trends and document the size of your market. 

Questions to answer include:

• What part of the landscaping industry are you targeting?
• How big is the market?
• What trends are happening in the industry right now (and if applicable, how do these trends support the success of your company)?

You should also include sources for the information you provide, such as published research reports and expert opinions.

Customer Analysis

This section should include a list of your target audience(s) with demographic and psychographic profiles (e.g., age, gender, income level, profession, job titles, interests). You will need to provide a profile of each customer segment separately, including their needs and wants.

For example, landscaping business customers may include residential homebuilders, commercial developers, and residential homeowners.

You can include information about how your customers make the decision to buy from you as well as what keeps them buying from you.

Develop a strategy for targeting those customers who are most likely to buy from you, as well as those that might be influenced to buy your products or landscaping services with the right marketing.

Competitive Analysis

The competitive analysis helps you determine how your product or service will be different from competitors, and what your unique selling proposition (USP) might be that will set you apart in this industry.

For each competitor, list their strengths and weaknesses. Next, determine your areas of competitive differentiation and/or advantage; that is, in what ways are you different from and ideally better than your competitors.

Below are sample competitive advantages your landscaping business may have:

• Established industry relationships
• Comprehensive services
• Wide range of landscaping services
• Customized services
• Use of the latest technology

Marketing Plan

This part of the business plan is where you determine and document your marketing plan. . Your plan should be clearly laid out, including the following 4 Ps.

• Product/Service : Detail your product/service offerings here. Document their features and benefits.
• Price : Document your pricing strategy here. In addition to stating the prices for your products/services, mention how your pricing compares to your competition.
• Place : Where will your customers find you? What channels of distribution (e.g., partnerships) will you use to reach them if applicable?
• Promotion : How will you reach your target customers? For example, you may use social media, write blog posts, create an email marketing campaign, use pay-per-click advertising, or launch a direct mail campaign. Or you may promote your landscaping business via a mix of these channels.

Operations Plan

This part of your landscaping business plan should include the following information:

• How will you deliver your product/service to customers? For example, will you do it in person or over the phone only?
• What infrastructure, equipment, and resources are needed to operate successfully? How can you meet those requirements within budget constraints?

The operations plan is where you also need to include your company’s business policies. You will want to establish policies related to everything from customer service to pricing, to the overall brand image you are trying to present.

Finally, and most importantly, in your Operations Plan, you will lay out the milestones your company hopes to achieve within the next five years. Create a chart that shows the key milestone(s) you hope to achieve each quarter for the next four quarters, and then each year for the following four years. Examples of milestones for a landscaping business include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include adding new services, expanding to a new location, or hiring new employees.

Management Team

List your team members here including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to your specific landscaping industry. Include brief biography sketches for each team member.

Particularly if you are seeking funding, the goal of this section is to convince investors and lenders that your team has the expertise and experience to execute on your plan. If you are missing key team members, document the roles and responsibilities you plan to hire for in the future.

Financial Plan

Here you will include a summary of your complete and detailed financial plan (your full financial projections go in the Appendix). 

This includes the following three financial statements:

Income Statement

Your income statement should include:

• Revenue : how much revenue you generate.
• Cost of Goods Sold : These are your direct costs associated with generating revenue. This includes labor costs, as well as the cost of any equipment and supplies used to deliver the product/service offering.
• Net Income (or loss) : Once expenses and revenue are totaled and deducted from each other, this is the net income or loss.

Sample Income Statement for a Startup Landscaping Company

Balance Sheet

Include a balance sheet that shows your assets, liabilities, and equity. Your balance sheet should include:

• Assets : All of the things you own (including cash).
• Liabilities : This is what you owe against your company’s assets, such as accounts payable or loans.
• Equity : The worth of your business after all liabilities and assets are totaled and deducted from each other.

Sample Balance Sheet for a Startup Landscaping Company

Cash Flow Statement

Include a cash flow statement showing how much cash comes in, how much cash goes out and a net cash flow for each year. The cash flow statement should include:

• Cash Flow From Operations
• Cash Flow From Investments
• Cash Flow From Financing

Below is a sample of a projected cash flow statement for a startup landscaping business.

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup Landscaping Company

You will also want to include an appendix section which will include:

• Your complete financial projections
• A complete list of your company’s business policies and procedures related to the rest of the business plan (marketing, operations, etc.)
• Any other documentation which supports what you included in the body of your business plan.

Writing a good business plan gives you the advantage of being fully prepared to launch and/or grow your landscaping company. It not only outlines your business vision but also provides a step-by-step process of how you are going to accomplish it.

This guide has provided you with a basic outline of what should be included in your landscaping business plan. Use this as a starting point and tailor it to fit the specific needs of your company.  

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Landscaping Business Plan Template & PDF Example

• September 4, 2024
• Business Plan

Creating a comprehensive business plan is crucial for launching and running a successful landscaping business. This plan serves as your roadmap, detailing your vision, operational strategies, and financial plan. It helps establish your landscaping business’s identity, navigate the competitive market, and secure funding for growth.

This article not only breaks down the critical components of a landscaping business plan, but also provides an example of a business plan to help you craft your own.

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or new to the service industry, this guide, complete with a business plan example, lays the groundwork for turning your landscaping business concept into reality. Let’s dive in!

Our landscaping business plan is designed to encompass all critical components necessary for a holistic strategic approach. It outlines the company’s service offerings, marketing efforts, analysis of the market and competitors, organizational structure, and financial forecasts.

• Executive Summary : Offers an overview of your landscaping business concept, market analysis , management, and financial strategy.
• Services and Rates: Lists the range of landscaping services offered, such as landscape design, lawn care, hardscaping, irrigation systems, and seasonal maintenance, with a clear pricing structure.
• Key Stats: Shares industry size , growth trends, and relevant statistics for the landscaping market.
• Key Trends: Highlights recent trends in the landscaping industry, such as the emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly practices and technological advancements in landscaping tools.
• Key Competitors: Analyzes main competitors in your area and differentiates your service in terms of design creativity, service range, and environmental sustainability.
• SWOT: Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis tailored to your landscaping business.
• Marketing Plan : Specifies marketing strategies to promote your services, including digital advertising, local trade shows, and partnerships with local suppliers.
• Timeline : Key milestones and objectives from the initial setup to the first year of operations, detailing steps such as market analysis, legal setup, facility selection, equipment procurement, and launch marketing activities.
• Management: Information on the management team, highlighting their expertise in landscaping design, operations management, project execution, and client relationship management.
• Financial Plan: Projects the five-year financial performance of the landscaping service, including revenue targets, profit and loss statements, fundraising needs, cash flow projections, and balance sheet forecasts.

Landscaping Business Plan

Fully editable 30+ slides Powerpoint presentation business plan template.

Download an expert-built 30+ slides Powerpoint business plan template

Executive Summary

The Executive Summary introduces your landscaping business plan, offering a concise overview of your company and its services. It should detail your market positioning, the range of landscaping and garden care services you offer, its location, size, and an outline of day-to-day operations. 

This section should also explore how your landscaping business will integrate into the local market, including the number of direct competitors within the area, identifying who they are, along with your company’s unique selling points that differentiate it from these competitors. 

Furthermore, you should include information about the management and co-founding team, detailing their roles and contributions to the company’s success. Additionally, a summary of your financial projections, including revenue and profits over the next five years, should be presented here to provide a clear picture of your company’s financial plan.

Landscaping Business Plan Executive Summary Example

Business Overview

In introducing your landscaping business within the executive summary, it is imperative to offer a clear snapshot. This encompasses the business name, geographical location, and an overview of daily operations.

Example: “GreenScape Innovations,” positioned strategically in [City Name], caters to a [x]-mile radius, providing an array of landscaping services including garden design, lawn care, hardscaping, irrigation systems, and seasonal maintenance. The distinguishing factor lies in the company’s commitment to infusing creativity into designs and prioritizing sustainability, resulting in outdoor spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and eco-conscious.

Market Overview

Understanding the market dynamics is pivotal. It involves showcasing the  market size , growth trajectories, and industry nuances to provide an understanding of the landscape in which your business operates.

Example: The landscaping industry stands as a robust sector valued at approximately $176.5 billion, exhibiting a promising growth trajectory with an anticipated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of +7.3% from 2023 to 2030. Within this expansive market, a diverse array of businesses, ranging from small, local operators to large, national service providers, compete for market share. Within our operating radius, we have identified [5]  key competitors , each contributing to the local landscape services within a [x]–mile reach.

Management Team

The prowess and expertise of the managerial team constitute a critical asset. Illuminating their backgrounds and experiences fosters credibility and confidence among potential stakeholders.

Example: The team at GreenScape Innovations boasts extensive experience in landscaping design, horticulture, and a proven track record of successful projects. Their collaboration with clients ensures customized landscape plans that seamlessly blend beauty with sustainability. The operational management team, equipped with substantial experience in operations and project management, ensures the seamless execution of services. Their adept coordination and project scheduling guarantee efficient and effective delivery of landscaping services.

Financial Plan

A concise overview of the financial plan outlines the business’s revenue targets, growth projections, and key strategies for achieving financial success.

Example: GreenScape Innovations aims to achieve an annual revenue milestone of $770,000 million, accompanied by a targeted profit margin ( EBITDA ) of [13]% by 2028. This strategic financial trajectory aligns with our commitment to innovation, sustainable practices, and customer-centric services. It involves a comprehensive approach encompassing investment in cutting-edge technology, training, and strategic alliances to facilitate revenue growth while ensuring operational excellence.

Services and Rates

Detail the range of landscaping services offered, from routine lawn maintenance and garden care to specialized services like landscape design, hardscaping, or irrigation system installation.

Outline your pricing strategy , ensuring it reflects the quality of services provided and aligns with the market you’re targeting. Highlight any service packages, seasonal deals, or loyalty programs that provide added value to your clients, encouraging repeat business and fostering customer loyalty.

Industry size & growth

In the Market Overview of your landscaping business plan, start by examining the size of the landscaping industry and its growth potential. This analysis is crucial for understanding the market’s scope and identifying expansion opportunities.

Consider factors such as the increase in residential and commercial development, the growing emphasis on outdoor living spaces, and the rising awareness of the environmental benefits of well-maintained landscapes.

Key market trends

Proceed to discuss recent market trends , such as the increasing consumer interest in sustainable and eco-friendly landscaping practices, the demand for outdoor living spaces equipped with features like fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and entertainment areas, and the growing popularity of native plant gardens that require less water and maintenance.

Highlight the demand for services that cater to specific landscape design and maintenance needs, alongside the rising popularity of smart irrigation systems to conserve water.

Competitive Landscape

A  competitive analysis  is not just a tool for gauging the position of your landscaping business in the market and its key competitors; it’s also a fundamental component of your business plan.

This analysis helps in identifying your landscaping business’s unique selling points, essential for differentiating your business in a competitive market.

In addition, competitive analysis is integral to laying a solid foundation for your business plan. By examining various operational aspects of your competitors, you gain valuable information that ensures your business plan is robust, informed, and tailored to succeed in the current market environment.

Identifying Your Competitors in the Landscaping Industry

The first step in conducting a competitive analysis for a landscaping business involves identifying direct and indirect competitors. Direct competitors are other landscaping companies offering similar services in your area. These could range from small, local landscaping firms to larger, established companies with a regional presence. Indirect competitors might include lawn maintenance services, gardening centers, or even DIY solutions.

Utilize online resources and local directories to compile a list of competitors. Additionally, review customer testimonials and ratings on platforms like Google, Yelp, or Angie’s List to gain insights into their  strengths and weaknesses . For instance, if a competitor like “Green Thumb Landscapes” receives consistent praise for their eco-friendly designs, this reflects a potential strength to consider.

Landscaping Competitors’ Strategies

Analyzing competitors’ strategies involves assessing various facets of their business:

• Service Offerings:  Examine the range of services your competitors provide. Are there companies specializing in particular niches like sustainable landscaping, hardscaping, or garden design?
• Approach and Expertise: Consider the approaches and expertise your competitors showcase. For instance, a company known for using innovative technologies in irrigation systems might differentiate itself from others focusing solely on traditional landscaping methods.
• Pricing and Packages:  Compare pricing structures and service packages offered by competitors. Are there firms catering to high-end clients with premium landscape design services, while others target affordability with basic lawn care packages?
• Marketing and Branding:  Analyze competitors’  marketing strategies . Do they leverage social media effectively, maintain informative blogs, or engage in community events? Understanding their branding efforts helps shape your own marketing strategies.
• Client Relationships:  Evaluate how competitors build and maintain relationships with clients. Companies offering personalized consultations or regular maintenance plans might have an edge in customer retention.
• Operational Efficiency:  Look for signs of innovation or efficiency in their operations. For example, companies employing eco-friendly practices or utilizing advanced software for project management indicate a commitment to efficiency and sustainability.

What’s Your Landscaping Business’s Unique Selling Proposition?

Identify your landscaping business’s  unique value proposition  that sets it apart. Perhaps your company specializes in drought-resistant landscaping or offers comprehensive estate management services catering to high-end clients.

Identify market gaps by examining customer feedback and industry trends. For instance, a growing interest in eco-friendly landscaping practices could represent an opportunity to establish your business as an environmentally conscious choice if competitors are not addressing this demand.

Consider your service area and clientele: A landscaping business situated in a suburban residential area might focus on family-oriented outdoor spaces, while one in an urban setting could emphasize rooftop gardens or commercial landscaping solutions.

First, conduct a SWOT analysis for the landscaping business, highlighting Strengths (such as expertise in water-conserving landscaping techniques and a unique offering of drought-tolerant designs), Weaknesses (including potential limitations in plant variety or challenges in client education about the benefits of  landscaping), Opportunities (for example, increasing awareness and regulation around water conservation leading to a higher demand for landscaping solutions), and Threats (such as climate unpredictability that may impact project scopes or competition from traditional landscaping businesses expanding into landscaping).

Marketing Plan

Next, develop a marketing strategy that outlines how to attract and retain clients through targeted advertising that emphasizes the environmental and economic benefits of landscaping, promotional discounts for water-saving landscaping projects, an engaging social media presence showcasing successful projects and water conservation tips, and community involvement in local sustainability efforts. Highlighting the aesthetic appeal and low maintenance of landscapes can also attract clients looking for sustainable yet beautiful outdoor spaces.

Marketing Channels

Effective marketing channels ensure visibility and engagement:

Digital Marketing

• Website and SEO:  Developing a professional website is the cornerstone of your online presence. Beyond showcasing your portfolio and client testimonials, consider creating comprehensive service pages that outline your offerings in detail. Additionally, incorporating a blog section dedicated to landscaping tips, DIY guides, and industry trends can position your website as an authoritative resource in the field. Optimize it for local SEO to rank higher in search engine results.
• Social Media:  Utilizing various social media platforms allows for a multi-dimensional approach to engaging with your audience. While Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook are primary platforms for visual content sharing, consider diversifying your presence across emerging platforms like TikTok or YouTube, depending on your content strategy.
• Email Marketing:  Building an email list is a valuable asset for nurturing leads and retaining existing clients. Offer incentives such as comprehensive landscaping guides, exclusive access to webinars, or early-bird discounts in exchange for email subscriptions. Segment your email list based on client preferences, geographical locations, or service interests to personalize content and increase engagement.

Local Advertising

• Flyers and Local Print:  Design eye-catching flyers and distribute them in local community centers, gardening stores, and neighborhood mailboxes.
• Community Engagement:  Participate in local gardening events, sponsor community projects, or offer workshops to showcase your expertise and build trust within the community.
• Collaborate with Home Services:  Partner with real estate agencies, property managers, or home renovation businesses to offer landscaping services as part of a home improvement package.
• Networking Events:  Attend trade shows, industry conferences, or Chamber of Commerce events to network with potential clients and other professionals in related industries.

Promotional Activities

Engage potential clients with compelling offers:

• Seasonal Promotions:  Launch seasonal promotions such as ‘Spring Garden Revival Packages’ or ‘Fall Cleanup Specials’ to attract new clients and encourage repeat business.
• Referral Programs:  Incentivize clients to refer your services to others by offering discounts or free upgrades for successful referrals.
• Free Consultations:  Offer free initial consultations or landscape assessments to showcase your expertise and build rapport with potential clients.

Sales Channels

Efficient  sales channels  are crucial for converting leads into customers:

In-Person Consultations

• Offer Comprehensive Assessments:  Provide detailed consultations to understand clients’ landscaping needs and offer tailored solutions.
• Present Service Packages:  Introduce different service packages or tiers that cater to various client requirements.

Online Booking and Sales

• Streamline Booking:  Implement an easy-to-use online booking system on your website, allowing clients to schedule appointments at their convenience.
• E-Commerce:  Sell gardening tools, plants, or landscape accessories through your website to diversify revenue streams.

Membership and Retention Programs

• Loyalty Rewards:  Develop loyalty programs where clients earn points for every service availed, redeemable for discounts or additional services. 
• Subscription Models : Offer subscription-based maintenance plans where clients pay a monthly fee for ongoing landscaping services, ensuring steady income and fostering client retention.

Strategy Timeline

Finally, create a detailed timeline that outlines critical milestones for the landscaping business’s launch, including initial market research , website and portfolio development, community outreach efforts, first client acquisition, and subsequent project completions. Set benchmarks for marketing initiatives, client base growth, and expansion objectives, such as offering new services or entering new markets, ensuring the business progresses with clear direction and purpose.

The Management section focuses on the landscaping business’s management and their direct roles in daily operations and strategic direction. This part is crucial for understanding who is responsible for making key decisions and driving the landscaping business towards its financial and operational goals.

For your landscaping business plan, list the core team members, their specific responsibilities, and how their expertise supports the business.

The Financial Plan section is a comprehensive analysis of your financial projections for revenue, expenses, and profitability. It lays out your landscaping business’s approach to securing funding, managing cash flow, and achieving breakeven.

This section typically includes detailed forecasts for the first 5 years of operation, highlighting expected revenue, operating costs and capital expenditures.

For your landscaping business plan, provide a snapshot of your financial statement (profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow statement), as well as your key assumptions (e.g. number of customers and prices, expenses, etc.).

Make sure to cover here _ Profit and Loss _ Cash Flow Statement _ Balance Sheet _ Use of Funds

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by   Miles Almadrones

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Updated on: September 10, 2024 · 12 min read

Is now the time to start a landscaping business?

Starting a landscaping or lawn care business in 10 steps, how much does it cost to start a landscaping business, how to decide which type of business structure is right for you.

Owning a landscaping business can be rewarding and profitable, but the initial steps to start one require more than just a green thumb. You’ll first need to analyze your local market, decide which landscaping services to offer, and formally establish your business in your state. To help you get started, walk you through the entire process and break down the potential startup costs to prepare for. 

Over the past five years, the landscaping industry has expanded by an average of 4.8% annually, now with a market size of $153 billion in 2024. Even more encouraging, individual landscaping companies reported growth of over 15% in 2023, according to the National Association of Landscape Professionals . 

While these trends don’t guarantee future results, they at least suggest a positive outlook for the industry. After all, there will always be an ongoing need for property maintenance and care, whether in suburbs, commercial lots, or outdoor public areas. 

However, you should still be aware of factors that could impact growth, including rising operational costs or changes in consumer spending habits—particularly for larger projects or nonessential services. Nonetheless, starting a landscaping company in the current market could be a rewarding opportunity if you’re willing to put in the work and learn the fundamentals. 

From market research to the official launch, here’s everything you’ll need to do in order to start a new landscaping business. 

Step 1: Conduct market research

First, you want to study your local market and assess whether you have a viable business idea . You should focus on these items: 

• Market demand. Measure the need for landscaping services in your community. Look for areas with new housing developments, commercial zones, or neighborhoods with high-income professionals or aging populations. 
• Target customer base. Determine who your primary customers will be, whether homeowners, businesses, or both. 
• Competitors. Identify existing landscaping companies in your area and note their services, pricing, and reputation. 
• Opportunities. Look for gaps in the market. Is there a need for specific services, more price variety, or something else that you could provide that your competitors can’t? 

You can refer to local government websites and census data to learn about development plans and demographics in your area. You should also use Google Maps, local business directories, and online customer reviews to find and analyze the competition. As you gather all this information, look for indicators that suggest a need (or lack thereof) for your services. 

Step 2: Choose which type of services to offer

Based on your market research, you can decide which services to offer. Common options include the following: 

• Basic lawn care. Mowing, edging, pruning, leaf removal, and seasonal clean-ups
• Irrigation services. Maintaining and installing sprinkler systems 
• Outdoor design and installation. Creating and implementing landscaping plans for new builds or renovations
• Hardscaping. Installing patios, walkways, and driveways
• Tree services. Trimming, removal, and stump grinding
• Pest and weed control. Applying chemical treatments as needed 
• Outdoor lighting. Installing and maintaining low-voltage lighting systems 

Consider your skills, experience, and available resources when determining which services to offer. As a general rule of thumb, you should start with services you’re confident in providing that also align with your target market’s needs. 

Step 3: Choose a business model

A business model—also known as a business structure—affects your finances, operations, and degree of liability in the event of a lawsuit. While several options are available, including a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and limited liability company (LLC), it’s generally advisable to choose a structure that offers liability protection. 

An LLC is a common choice for a new landscaping business owner, as it typically protects personal finances from business debts and liabilities—unlike a sole proprietorship. A corporation offers similar liability protection and additional tax options, but it’s usually more complicated to set up. For more information, we’ll explain how to choose the right structure for your landscaping business in a later section. 

Step 4: Write a business plan

Once you have a good understanding of how you’ll structure your lawn care company, you can create a business plan to show that you’ve considered all aspects of your venture. Here are the basic elements you should include in your landscaping business plan: 

• Executive summary. An overview of your landscaping business and its objectives
• Company description. Details about your services, target market, and advantages over competitors
• Market analysis. Insights on local competition, industry trends, and growth potential. 
• Financial projections. Estimated business expenses, revenue forecasts, and profitability outlook for the next few years
• Organization and management. Your business model and who’s in charge of running it
• Marketing strategy. Description of your plans to attract landscaping customers 

Writing a business plan will help you map out your initial goals and keep track of progress but remember to update it regularly as your business evolves and you learn more about your market. 

Step 5: Finance your business

While startup costs depend on your services and size, you’ll need to plan for equipment purchases, vehicle costs, insurance, licenses, and initial marketing efforts. You should also account for ongoing fuel, maintenance, and labor costs. 

Once you’ve estimated your startup costs, you can decide whether you’ll fund the business yourself or apply for outside financing , whether through friends or family, a bank, or the Small Business Administration (SBA). Regardless of the lender, ensure you have a clear plan for how you’ll use the funds and repay the loan (often included in your business plan). 

Step 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Specific requirements can vary depending on your location and the services you offer, but here are some of the standard permits and licenses you might need to acquire: 

• A business license to operate in your city or county
• A contractor’s license if you plan on offering larger landscaping services (such as hardscaping) 
• Pesticide applicator license if you’ll be applying chemical treatments
• Tree pruning license to maintain trees over a certain height 
• DOT number if operating vehicles over a certain weight 

Research your local regulations thoroughly, as operating without proper permits can result in fines and legal issues. If you’d like some help, LegalZoom can help identify the exact federal, state, or local licenses you need to start your landscaping business.

Step 7: Invest in equipment

Unless you already own lawn care equipment, you’ll typically need to purchase the following tools: 

• Lawn mower (riding model for large lawns and a push model for small, hard-to-access areas) 
• Edger and string trimmer
• Pruning shears, rakes, and shovels
• Wheelbarrow or garden cart
• Spreader for fertilizer, seeds, or pesticides 
• Safety gear (gloves, googles, ear protection) 
• Truck or trailer for transportation 

In addition, you might buy a chainsaw, pressure washer, irrigation installation/repair tools, or more heavy-duty equipment for hardscaping, depending on your lawn care services. Still, you should start with the essential, versatile tools first and gradually expand your inventory as your business grows. 

Step 8: Market your business

Before launching, you’ll want to develop a plan to market your landscaping company . To begin, you should build a simple and professional website that showcases your work through before-and-after photos, lists your services, and includes a contact form for easy quote requests. You can also update your website with customer testimonials as you earn them. 

Next, you can create a free Google Business Profile to appear in local search results, making it easy for potential customers to find your contact information. However, don’t overlook traditional marketing strategies like eye-catching business cards, flyers or door hangers, and referral programs for existing customers. 

As your business grows, you might consider more targeted marketing efforts, such as local SEO to improve your search engine rankings, paid online advertising, or even sponsoring local events to increase your brand awareness. 

Step 9: Focus on customer service and retention

For any successful landscaping business, exceptional customer service is just as important as the quality of the lawn care work. This starts with the basics: always arrive on time, maintain a professional appearance, and ensure your team is courteous and respectful of customers’ properties. Likewise, clearly explain the services you’re providing (and why) and be transparent about pricing. 

Though not required, you can offer detailed service visit reports. These can include before-and-after photos, notes on work completed, and recommendations for future maintenance. You might also consider implementing an online billing system to allow customers to easily view and pay invoices. 

Consider offering referral discounts and bulk deals to help build a loyal customer base.

Step 10: Launch and manage your business

As you prepare to launch your landscaping business, there are a few final steps to complete: 

• Register your business name with your state.
• Obtain an employer identification number (EIN) from the IRS.
• Set up a business bank account, payroll, and accounting system.
• Secure proper insurance coverage (e.g., liability, vehicle, property and casualty, and workers’ compensation if hiring employees) 
• Finalize your service pricing structure. 

However, launching your landscaping company is just the beginning. In the first few months, focus on careful budgeting and cash flow management and keep detailed records of all income and expenses. It may take time before you turn a profit but follow your business plan and gradually adjust your services to align with your actual costs and market demand. 

Generally, you can expect initial startup costs to range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more for your landscaping business. However, costs can increase if you’re investing in high-end equipment. Here’s a breakdown of the expenses you should budget for. 

Equipment and maintenance

• Lawn mowers: $120 to $500 for a push mower and around $3,000 for a riding model
• Trimmers: $200 or more
• Vehicles and trailers: At least $30,000 to $40,000 for a basic pickup truck with adequate towing capabilities and potentially over $100,000 for commercial vehicles or heavy-duty trailers

Used equipment can cost less than these estimates but be sure to factor in the potential for higher and more frequent maintenance expenses. Likewise, you should consider the fuel consumption and expected life span of all equipment you buy. 

Sourcing and disposal

Costs for sourcing materials like plants, mulch, and pavers can vary widely. Many of these items are priced by the unit or square foot, and you’ll need to have the cash on hand to acquire them before starting projects. 

Disposal costs are another consideration. You’ll be responsible for paying dump fees, which can vary by location and the type of waste. General yard waste might cost $20 to $50 per load, while fees for construction debris or hazardous materials can be significantly higher. 

Research local regulations and disposal fees to get accurate estimates for your area and remember to factor these costs into your service quotes. 

Licensing, permits, and insurance

Generally, basic business licenses and permits cost between $50 and $400, depending on your location and the services you offer. However, specialized licenses (such as those for pesticide applications) may cost more. 

Moreover, you should budget for general liability insurance , which typically starts around $2,000 annually for a small landscaping business. If you offer more specialized or high-risk services, such as tree trimming, your insurance costs will likely be higher. Be sure to consider vehicle insurance as well, which might cost around $200 to $300 per month. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that landscaping and groundskeeping workers earn a mean hourly wage of $19.47 . However, the total cost of employment also includes the following: 

• Payroll taxes
• Workers’ compensation insurance
• Any benefits you offer (e.g., health insurance or paid time off) 
• Recruitment and training costs

When planning your budget, you should also account for seasonal fluctuations in your staffing needs. 

Marketing costs depend on your strategy and how much you’re able to do yourself. Here are some key expenses to consider.

• Website development: $500 to $5,000 or more for a professional site (or free if you use a DIY website builder)
• Logo design: $300 to $1,000 for a professional design
• Vehicle decals and graphics : $300 to several thousand dollars, depending on size and complexity (e.g., a full vehicle wrap) 
• Business cards and flyers: $50 to $200 for initial printing 

While it’s possible to start with a minimal marketing budget, investing in professional marketing can potentially lead to more clients and higher-value contracts.  

The right business structure for your new venture depends on your liability protection needs, future growth plans, and business complexity. Here’s a breakdown of each option . 

Sole proprietorship

• Pros: Simple to set up, full ownership and control, minimal paperwork
• Cons: Personal liability for business debts and legal issues

Partnership

• Pros: Shared startup costs and workload
• Cons: Potential conflicts between partners

Limited liability company (LLC)

• Pros: Personal asset protection, tax flexibility, less paperwork than corporations
• Cons: More complex setup than sole proprietorship and ongoing fees in some states

Corporation

• Pros: Strongest personal liability protection and easier to raise capital
• Cons: More complex structure and higher setup and maintenance costs 

An LLC or corporation usually makes the most sense for many small or medium-sized landscaping businesses. However, your specific circumstances and business goals may favor a different structure. 

Before you jump in, we encourage you to consult a business attorney to ensure you make the right decision. From helping you acquire the necessary permits to registering your business name, our experienced business attorneys are ready to guide you through every step of launching your landscaping business . 

How profitable is a landscaping business?

Profitability varies widely, but well-managed landscaping businesses can have profit margins ranging from 5% to 20%. However, this depends on the services offered, efficiency, and market demand. 

How do I price my own landscaping business services?

Price your services by calculating your costs (labor, materials, equipment, and overhead) and adding a sustainable profit margin. You should also consider market rates in your area and the value you provide, gradually adjusting prices as you gain experience and build a reputation. 

What are the pros and cons of owning a landscaping business?

Owning a landscaping business allows you to work outdoors, create a flexible schedule, and make outdoor spaces more beautiful. Conversely, the work is physically demanding, dependent on the weather, and sometimes costly, especially in places with higher fuel or maintenance costs. 

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Free Landscape Business Plan Template (+PDF Download)

Read Time 6 minutes

Author Stephanie Figy

Published February 21, 2023

Table of Contents

1. Executive summary

2. company overview, 3. landscaping services, 4. landscaping pricing, 5. market analysis.

• 6. Competitor analysis
• 7. Marketing plan and sales strategy

8. Management plan

9. financial plan, set up your landscaping business for success.

A landscape business plan is essential for securing bank loans, managing startup costs, and maintaining cash flow. Even the most seasoned landscape business owner needs a dynamic roadmap to guide operations and inform goal-setting.

Annually reviewing and adjusting your company’s business plan helps you to scale your landscape business strategically. 

This article describes what to include in a landscape business plan and provides a free landscape business plan template to get started. 

>> Download Aspire’s FREE landscape business plan template. 

The executive summary serves as a strategic snapshot of your landscape business plan. It should be compelling to capture the attention of potential partners and lenders. 

The executive summary briefly describes the new business, its mission, and its goals. Summarize the most critical aspects of the plan, such as:

Market opportunities

Services offered

Financial projections

If you’re applying for funding, specify the amount , how you intend to use it , and, more importantly, how it will increase your profit margins .

Even though the executive summary comes first in the plan, write it last to identify and highlight the most crucial elements of your plan, ensuring that it presents a well-rounded and compelling case for your landscape business.

The company overview is where you start to dig into the details of your landscaping or lawn maintenance business. It should include specifics, such as:

Landscaping business name

Business address

Phone number

Email address

Business website

In addition to the nuts and bolts, a company overview is where business owners state their mission statement , vision statement , and core values . This gives the reader a comprehensive understanding of the company’s business identity.

In this section, list your various landscaping services, such as routine lawn care services, landscape design, or mulch installation. For each service type, detail the: 

Potential profitability

Scalability

Industry relevance

Strategic importance

List any specialized equipment or certifications that enable you to perform unique services or differentiate you in the marketplace. Also, determine whether you plan to provide these services to homeowners, commercial clients, or both.

Some landscape companies in colder climates pivot to snow removal during the winter. If that’s a part of your business model, include the related services in this section. This demonstrates your capacity to diversify and sustain your business during off-peak seasons, contributing to overall revenue stability and client retention.

Next, outline your pricing strategy, including the pricing model or models your business uses, such as flat-rate , project-based , or hourly pricing. Note that pricing depends on factors like:

Market demand

Competition

You may also list prices from a few competitors to show where your business stands in the marketplace. Include how your pricing strategy positions your business, whether as a cost leader , a premium service provider , or a value-driven option .

Explain if your pricing strategy allows flexibility, such as offering package deals or customizing services based on client preferences. If applicable, discuss strategies to attract and retain clients, such as:

Discount programs

Seasonal promotions

Membership programs

Referral incentives 

Include a market analysis within your business plan to show potential investors and partners what the landscape industry looks like in your area, such as:

Market size

Growth trends

Opportunities

Identify market gaps, whether certain services are not offered, or areas are not sufficiently served.

Discuss emerging trends and innovations within the landscaping industry. This could encompass:

Eco-friendly practices

Sustainable landscaping

Advancements in technology and equipment

Your awareness of industry trends indicates your readiness to adapt and stay competitive.

In addition, outline your target audience or buyer persona , including demographics and psychographics. If your key target market includes discerning families, this could help determine specific service offerings, such as organic cleaning products and methods. 

6. Competitor analysis 

In the competitor analysis section of your business plan, list the top landscape industry players in your service area and their strengths and weaknesses. Discuss competitive advantages that set the business apart and strategies for outperforming competitors, which may include capitalizing on the weaknesses of your peers. 

→ When performing a competitive analysis, due diligence requires consulting market research and industry benchmarks. This guides strategic decision-making .

In addition, detail the marketing and promotional tactics employed by competitors, including their:

Online presence

Social media engagement

Advertising campaigns

Customer acquisition strategies

Explain how your marketing efforts aim to stand out or compete effectively.

7. Marketing plan and sales strategy 

You’ve already established your target audience. Now, outline how you plan to reach potential customers and convert them into new customers. List your marketing channels and tactics, like direct mail, email marketing, and social media marketing.

When crafting a marketing strategy , consider each step of the buyer journey and how your company will effectively target customers through those steps, which include:

For your sales strategy, define your approach, such as value-based or consultative selling . 

In addition, define your follow-up strategy for unsold estimates–consider what will convert them–and how to utilize customers you’ve serviced to garner reviews and referrals. 

Your management plan provides an overview of the company’s business structure and key personnel responsible for executing the business plan. It acts as a roadmap for:

Making staffing decisions

Defining internal processes

Developing leaders 

You may start with an organizational chart, which provides an overview of the company hierarchy from the management team on down. Then, go into further detail, listing the roles and responsibilities of each team member. 

A company’s recruitment and retention relies on quality management. Discuss strategies for attracting and retaining talent and your plans for talent development and growing your landscape business . This could include mentorship programs , career pathing , and feedback mechanisms . 

The financial plan breaks down the numbers side of your landscaping business, outlining the company’s economic viability and the leadership’s financial acumen. 

For businesses seeking funding, outline the capital requirements to start the company and how the money will be used. Include personal income statements for each owner and major stockholder, showing assets and liabilities outside the business and personal net worth.

A financial plan should include financial statements, such as:

12-month profit-and-loss projection

Cash flow statement projection

Projected balance sheet

Break-even calculation

Take into account the average profit margins for a landscaping business . Also, list financial risks and mitigation strategies. 

→ Your financial plan is a moving target, as you can’t always predict and plan for changing economic landscapes. Regularly r evisiting and updating this section of your business plan is crucial .

You might use resources to help implement your financial plan, such as landscape business software like Aspire, which provides visibility into every aspect of operations. 

With real-time data readily accessible via custom reports and dashboards , and features to accurately and immediately calculate job costs, Aspire helps landscaping businesses make informed decisions to improve:

Productivity

Accountability

A landscape or lawn care business plan helps secure funding, uncover your business differentiators, and guide day-to-day landscape business operations. Check out our sample business plan to get started. 

Field service software helps implement the business plan, leading to growth, profitability, and landscape business success .

Aspire ’s end-to-end business management software delivers industry-leading features for:

Job costing

Labor management

Purchasing 

For more than a decade, landscape contractors have trusted Aspire’s tools to help them operate profitably and efficiently.

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Home » Sample Business Plans » Real Estate

How to Write a Landscaping Business Plan [Sample Template]

Are you about starting a landscaping company? If YES, here’s a complete sample landscaping business plan template & feasibility report to help you get started. Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a landscaping business. We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample landscaping marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for landscaping businesses. So let’s proceed to the business planning section.

A Sample Landscaping Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

It is not enough to own a property that is well designed and built; the hallmark of any property is the beauty of the lawns and gardens. Landscapers are in the business of giving total esthetic effect in and around our neighborhoods. It is not enough to plant flowers or have a lawn in your compound and just watch them grow; you need to hire a professional landscaping company to help you bring out the beauty in your environment.

Landscape architecture is all about the art, planning, designing, management, preservation and rehabilitation of the land and the design of a large man – made concepts; it beautifies our environment. Landscaping business just like Lawn care business is not one of those businesses that you can start and make big money from without truly working pretty hard and smart.

Any entrepreneur who intends to start his or her own landscaping business with the aim of making huge profits from it must be very creative and ready to go the extra mile to convince clients that he or she can deliver an excellent job. Furthermore, you have got to prove beyond every reasonable doubt that you are competent.

In a publication released by a Professional Land-care Network (PLANET), an international association serving landscaping professionals, lawn care professionals, exterior maintenance contractors, installation/design/building professionals, and interior scapers, there are approximately 12,000 landscapers in the united states of America.

This statistics covers independent operators, franchises and large corporate chains. They also stated that the number of professional landscapers could actually be considerably higher because there are so many people doing landscape maintenance on part – time and on a pay as you go basis.

Lastly, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, published in 2006-2007 (U.S. Department of Labor), is that almost 1 out of every 4 landscaping, grounds – keeping, nursery, greenhouse and lawn service workers is self-employed and provides maintenance services directly to customers on a contract basis. Of these, about 1 out of every 6 works part time.

Although, landscaping business might not be amongst the money spinning businesses in the US, but they have a very large market that is readily available for them if they can convince property owners to patronize their services.

As a matter of fact, statistics has it that the United States green industry (landscape and lawn maintenance, landscape contractors, landscape architects, irrigation contractors, and lawn and landscape product suppliers) generates roughly $67 billion to $69 billion annually. PLANET estimates that the landscaping services sector alone generates about 704,000 jobs and $35.6 million in value-added services annually in the US; it is indeed a growing industry.

Landscaping business also falls in the category of seasonal businesses. The industry experiences downtime during the winter period and in most states in the US. In general, the demand for landscaping services is usually at its peak in the spring and generally between April and October. Which is why landscaping companies are always everywhere sourcing for business deals within this period of the year.

If you are familiar with the landscaping industry, you will notice that most landscaping companies do not restrict their services to only landscape architecture et al; they ensure that they add additional services such as lawn care services, snow plowing services (during winter season), fumigation services and any other similar services just to ensure that they maintain steady in – flow of income during peak and off peak periods.

As such; any entrepreneur who wants to start a landscaping business in the US should be aware that the landscaping and lawn care industry is a closely regulated industry that requires practitioners to earn certifications that permit them to handle hazardous compounds; most especially when they also offer fumigation services.

2. Executive Summary

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is a licensed landscape architecture company that will be based in Miami Beach, Florida –United States of America and will have active presence in other cities such as; Greenacres City, Miami, Jacksonville, Clearwater, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, North Miami, West Palm Beach, Palm Harbor, Deltona, Orlando, Palm Bay and Panama City et al.

We chose to operate in these cities because we know that our services will be in high demand due to the geographical nature of Florida. Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is in the business of beautifying in our environment by offering professional landscape architecture services. We know that the beauty of a city or property is not complete if the gardens or lawns are not properly designed and managed.

We know the importance of networking with the right set of people, which is why we have form partnership with stake holders (landlord associations, property managers and relevant government agencies) in Florida.

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is specialized in handling golf courses, beach houses, major roads and streets as well as residential buildings and public facilities et al. As a matter of fact, when it comes to giving golf course the professional outlook it deserves, we are on top of the game.

We have some of the finest landscapers, who are gifted and also have gone ahead to acquire the relevant trainings that will make them create esthetic effect in the environment that will be second to none.

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is fully aware of the seasonal nature of the business which is why we have made provision to engage in complimentary services during off peak period. We will engage in snow plowing during winter, sale of flowers, tree cutting, fumigation and other related services.

We will also provide consultancy services to homeowners, property managers and the government when it comes to creating the esthetic effect that will bring out the beauty in our environment.

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is a private registered company landscape company that is owned by Glover Carrington and family. The company will be fully and single handedly financed by the owner – Glover Carrington. The business will be managed by his son Gordon Carrington; he is a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).

Mr. Gordon Carrington (Master of Landscape Architecture – MLA) is a core professional who has experience in sensitivity to landscape quality, ability to analyze problems in terms of design and physical forms, understands the arts and humanistic approach to design and he has skills in all aspects of professional practice including management and professional ethics. He has well over 7 years of experience in the industry.

3. Our Products and Services

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is in the business of bring out the beauty in our environment and our services will be carried out by highly trained professionals who know what it takes to give our highly esteemed customers value for their money.These are the services that Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company will be offering;

• Landscape architecture services
• Landscape care/maintenance services
• Trimming Landscaping
• Landscape design/contracting services
• Lawn mowing/maintenance
• Sod installation/hydro – seeding
• Weeding or fertilizer and/or pest control application
• Weekly lawn cut
• Weeding Beds
• Sale of flowers
• Spring Cleanup
• Fall Cleanup
• Chemical Treatment
• Snow Plowing
• Consultancy and Advisory Services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our Vision is to become the number one choice of homeowners, property managers and government agencies when it comes to landscaping services in Florida, U.S.
• Glover and Greenhouse Landscaping Company is a business positioned to be the become the leaders when it comes to bringing out the beauty (esthetics) in our environment by offering top notch landscaping architectural services and other related services in Miami Beach and other cities in Florida, U.S.

Our Business Structure

Glover and Greenhouse Landscaping Company will be headquartered in Miami Beach, but will operate in other cities in Florida which is why we designed our business structure to support the nature of our operations. We want to create a team of dedicated workforce that will help the organization achieve its aim of becoming the number one landscape company in the whole of Florida.

Because we don’t have the required finance to manage the numbers of workforce that we would need, we have made provisions to hire some freelance landscapers to help us handle some contracts when the need arises. Here is the business structure of Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company;

• Chief Operating Officer (Owner)
• Sales and Marketing Executive

Landscape Architect / Landscapist

• Field Staff
• Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Operating Officer:

• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for the day to day running of the business
• Responsible for handling high profile clients and deals
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization at regular interval
• Responsible for the planning, management and coordinating all projects on behalf of the company
• Supervises projects
• Ensures compliance during project executions
• Provides advice on the management of projects
• Responsible for carrying out risk assessment
• Uses IT systems and software to keep track of people and progress of ongoing projects
• Responsible for overseeing the accounting, costing and billing of every project
• Represents the organization’s interest at various stakeholders meetings
• Ensures that project desired result is achieved, the most efficient resources are utilized and different interests involved are satisfied. Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Handles all financial transactions for the company
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.

Sales and Marketing Officer

• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Documents all customer contact and information.
• Represents the company in strategic meetings
• Helps increase sales and growth for the company
• Lists the property for rent / lease to the public
• Markets space; finds tenants; participates in lease negotiations.
• Provides property owners with a real property condition disclosure (if required by law) and other necessary forms.
• Prepares necessary papers describing the property for advertising, pamphlets, open houses, etc.
• Holds an open house to show the property.
• Serves as a contact available to answer any questions about the property and schedule showing appointments.
• Responsible for planning and designing of places such as residential development area, parks, campuses, cemeteries, resorts, commercial centers, water fronts and corporate and institutional centers.
• Responsible for designing and implementing projects that respect both the needs of people and our environment
• Offers training and consultancy services
• Responsible for analyzing problems in terms of design and physical form
• Responsible for translating designs into a built work
• Responsible from training of field workers and freelancers

Field Workers

• Responsible for Lawn mowing/maintenance
• Handles Sod installation/hydro – seeding
• Handles Landscape care/maintenance services
• Carries out task in line with the stated job description
• Handles snow plowing
• Handles tree cutting
• Assists in transport working tools and equipment from the office (store) to site and back to the office
• Handles any other duties as assigned my the line manager

Front Desk / Customer’s Service Officer

• Receives Visitors / clients on behalf of the organization
• Receives parcels / documents for the company
• Handles enquiries via e-mail and phone calls for the organization

6. SWOT Analysis

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is in business for the purpose of making profits and building long lasting relationship with its clients and we know that in order for us to achieve these, we must be able to leverage on our strengths and take hold of all the opportunities that we come across.

We are aware that if effective strategies are not put in place, the weakness of a company and the threats that the business will be exposed to can strangulate the business which is why we have decided to take out time to conduct a SWOT analysis for Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company.

As a company, we look forward to maximizing our strength and opportunities and also to develop strategies that will help us effectively handle our weaknesses and threats. Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company;

Our strength as a landscape company is the fact that we have healthy relationships with key stakeholders in Florida. We have some of the latest equipment that will help us deliver neat and excellent jobs. Our management team and workforce are highly trained and qualified to deliver excellent jobs within record time. We are well positioned and we have active presence in major cities in Florida.

Our weakness could be that we are a new landscaping company in Miami Beach, Florida and it will require consistency for us to gain the confidence of our prospective clients (homeowners, property managers and even the government).

• Opportunities:

The opportunities that are available to us cannot be quantified; we know that there are loads of homeowners, property managers and government establishment that will require our services in Miami Beach and other cities in Florida.

Some of the threats that we are likely going to face as a landscaping company are global economic downturn that can impact negatively on household spending, bad weather cum natural disasters and the arrival of a competitor ( a company that offer same service as we do ) within same location. There is hardly anything we could do as regards these threats other than to be optimistic that things will continue to work for our good.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

It is a common trend in landscaping and lawn care industry to see loads of landscapers struggle to meet ends meet. This is so because a larger percentage of people who are supposed to patronize their services are reluctant when it comes to paying the true worth of the services rendered.

It is also a common trend to see landscape companies engage in other complimentary services to makes meet. The fact that there are off peak periods in the business makes it of necessity for landscape companies to look for other sources of income in order to maintain steady flow of income throughout the year.

If you are conversant with the landscape industry, you will realize that one of their major challenges is the challenge of accurately pricing services It takes a landscape company that has been in the business for a while to effectively charge clients in such a way that they will have enough resources to carry out the project, pay for labor and still make enough profits. It is important for any landscape company to first inspect the area they are to carry out their job so that they will be able to properly submit a quotation that will be favorable to both parties.

Usually, most landscaping companies ensure that they send their quotations to prospective clients only when they have been able to do their calculations based on per square foot of the property. Over and above, the creativity of the landscape architect will go a long way to determine the amount that can be charged and the inflow of business.

8. Our Target Market

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company was deliberately located in Miami Beach simply because we have a wide range of people and businesses that can hire our services; the geographical nature of Miami Beach is highly suitable for the kind of services we render. Our target market as a landscape company is not just restricted to only homeowners and property managers but also government establishment.

We are quite aware that the state government is one of the biggest clients in the industry, which is why we have structured our business to meet the expectations and requirements of the government when it comes to bidding for government contracts. This is the group of people that we will market our landscape business to;

• Facility managers for botanical gardens, historic buildings, municipalities and other government entities, universities, cemeteries and other public places with green spaces
• Homeowners who plan to put their home on the market and want to improve its curb appeal with fresh or updated landscaping
• Builders of both residential and commercial properties who don’t already have their own landscaper or staff
• New homeowners who wish to update the existing landscape of their property
• Homeowners who are frequently out of town on business
• Retirees who don’t care to do their own maintenance any longer
• “Snowbirds” with winter homes in warmer climates
• Golf course managers who may need help with maintenance
• Rental property or condominium association managers who are personnel-impaired
• Homeowners who don’t have the vision, skill or tools to design their own landscaping
• Managers of public facilities
• Government establishment

Our Competitive Advantage

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is fully aware that there is competition in the industry, which is why we decided to carry out thorough research and draft a killer landscaping marketing plan; so as to know how to take advantage of the available market in the cities where we want to operate.

We have done our homework and we have been able to highlight some factors that will give us competitive advantage in the marketplace; some of the factors are competence, trust, honesty, good network and excellent relationship management. One of the positive that we have as a company is the fact that we have some of the best hands in the industry under our payroll; our manager has a robust experience in the industry.

Another competitive advantage that we are bringing to the industry is the fact that we have designed our business in such a way that we can comfortably work with both the highly placed clients and the lowly placed clients; our prices are designed to fit into the budget of the lower class, the middle class and the upper class.

We are quite aware of the importance of taking proper care of our workforce which is why we have created welfare packages that will make all our employers willing to stay longer with us and also to always put in their best when carrying out their jobs.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company will ensure that we do not only generate income from our core service delivery but also from complementary services that we will render. Below are the sources we intend exploring to generate income for Posh Lawn Care and Landscape Company;

• Tree Cutting

10. Sales Forecast

From the survey conducted, we were are able to discover that the average landscaping business owner rakes in about $5,000 to $ 50,000 in their first year of active business, and a steady increase of $160,000 to $250,000 from subsequent year as long as they are consistent in what they do and have been able to create additional sources of income.

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company have perfected her sales and marketing strategies and we are set to deliver excellence services and designs. We know that if we structure our business properly and we have highly trained and motivated employees, we are likely going to meet or even surpass our set target of generating enough income / profits from our first three months of operations.

With the help of experts, we have been able to critically examine the landscape industry with more emphasis on Miami Beach, Florida and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some workable assumptions as well.

Below are the projections that we were able to come up with for the first three years of operations;

• First Year-: $150,000
• Second Year-: $250,000
• Third Year-: $500,000

N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and natural disasters within the period stated above.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company will do all it can to ensure that we become the preferred choice as far as landscaping services is concerned in Florida. We know the effectiveness of properly positioning a business which is why we have chosen a corner piece location in a busy road in Miami Beach to locate our business.

We will ensure that we leverage on all available networks to source for business deals. In view of that, we will continue to find local real estate clubs and connect with them and also we will locate gathering where we can find homeowners within the locations where we intend operating and then connect with them.

We will ensure that we bid at the appropriate time whenever there is the opportunity to handle government contracts both at the community and state level. We will also enter business partnership with local contractors and property managers since they also interface with property owners regularly; through them we can secure business deals.

Over and above, we have perfected strategies to network with people who are likely to refer business our way. In summary, Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company will adopt the following strategies in sourcing for clients for our business;

• Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to stake holders in the real estate industry, government institution and also property owners.
• Promptness in bidding for contracts
• Advertise our business in real estate / properties magazines and websites
• List our business on yellow pages ads
• Attend related real estate expos, seminars, and business fairs et al
• Create different packages for different category of clients in order to work with their budgets and still deliver quality job for them.
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business
• Direct marketing
• Word of mouth marketing (referrals)

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We are quite aware that any business that wants to grow beyond the corner of the street they are operating from must be ready and willing to utilize every available means (conventional and non – conventional means) to advertise and promote the business.

We intend growing our business which is why we have perfected plans to build our brand via every available means. Below are the platforms Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company intend to leverage on to promote and advertise her business;

• Encourage our loyal customers to help us use Word of Mouth mode of advertisement (referrals)
• Advertise our landscaping business in relevant magazines (real estate magazines), local newspaper, local TV stations and local radio station
• Promote our landscaping business online via our official website
• List our landscaping business on local directories (yellow pages ads)
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Google+, LinkedIn, Badoo, Facebook , twitter, et al to promote our landscaping business
• Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations around Miami Beach and other key cities in Florida.
• Direct coupon mailing approach to introduce our landscaping business to residence and property managers
• Engage in road show from time to time to create awareness of our landscaping business.
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas in Miami Beach, and other key cities in Florida
• Maximize our company’s website to promote our business
• Attend landlord and residence association meetings with the aim of networking and introducing our landscaping business.

These are some of the equipment that we would need to fully launch our lawn care and landscaping business;

• String Trimmer
• Edging Shears
• Turfing Iron
• Half Moon Cutter
• Leveling Rake
• Spring – tined Rake
• Wheel Barrow

12. Our Pricing Strategy

From our findings, the average cost of landscape services varies and it is dependent on loads of factors. For example, normal landscaping services include prices for services such as regular lawn maintenance which includes edging, mowing and blowing, fertilization, weeding beds, hedge trimming, shrub removal, replacement or moving, grass replacement, lawn care, irrigation among other landscape related services that may be required by a client.

Usually, these services are priced separately in most cases and in some instances; they may be priced together into one monthly service price.

We have been able to conduct effective survey and we were able to adopt a price format that is ideal for the kind of services we are going to be rendering.  Part of our business strategy is to ensure that we work within the budget of our clients to deliver excellent landscape services. At Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company, every client will find packages that will suite their budget.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits. Here are the payment options that are available to all clients of Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our client make payment for services rendered to them without stress on their part.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company ®

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is a privately owned business and it will be financed by the owner of the company; Mr. Glover Carrington. These are the areas where we intend sourcing for fund for Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the start – up capital from family members and friends (soft loans and gifts et al)
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the banks (loan facility).

N.B: Mr. Glover Carrington has been able to generate $30,000 ($20,000 from his personal savings and $10,000 as soft loan from his family members and friends. 50% of the start – up capital ($30,000 will be generated from the bank as loan)

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

• The Total Fee for incorporating the Business in Florida: $750.
• The budget for Liability insurance, permits and license: $1,500
• The Amount needed to acquire a small Office facility with space for storage of working tools and equipment in Miami Beach, Florida for 6 months (Re – Construction of the facility inclusive): $30,000.
• The Cost for equipping the office (computers, printers, fax machines, furniture, telephones, filing cabins, safety gadgets and electronics et al): $3,000
• The cost for acquiring the required working tools and equipment (walk-behind mower, a back pack blower, an edger, a weed eater and hand tools): $10,000
• The Cost of Launching our official Website: $600
• Additional Expenditure (Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al): $1,000

Going by the report from our research and feasibility studies, we will need about $60,000 to set up a standard landscaping business in Long Beach, CA.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Although Mr. Glover Carrington is the founder if the business, he is over 60 years old and since he intends building a business that will last, grow and expand, he decided to invest in training his son who is going to be the manager of the business. That is part of his sustainability and expansion strategy.

Glover and Greenhouse will ensure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that staff welfare is well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner.

Integrity, competence, trust and good relationship management are major factor that can guarantee steady growth for any business and we will ensure that we are known for such qualities.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of All form of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Renting of Office Facility in Miami Beach, Florida: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Start – up Capital Generation: Completed
• writing of business plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed furniture, office equipment, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
• Purchase of the needed working tools and equipment: Completed
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business (Business PR): In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety License Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with key players in the industry (networking and membership of relevant real estate bodies, landlord association): Completed

More on Real Estate

Sample Landscaping Business Plan

Writing a business plan is a crucial step in starting a landscaping business. Not only does it provide structure and guidance for the future, but it also helps to create funding opportunities and attract potential investors. For aspiring landscaping business owners, having access to a sample landscaping business plan can be especially helpful in providing direction and gaining insight into how to draft their own landscaping business plan.

Download our Ultimate Landscaping Business Plan Template

Having a thorough business plan in place is critical for any successful landscaping venture. It will serve as the foundation for your operations, setting out the goals and objectives that will help guide your decisions and actions. A well-written business plan can give you clarity on realistic financial projections and help you secure financing from lenders or investors. A landscaping business plan example can be a great resource to draw upon when creating your own plan, making sure that all the key components are included in your document.

The landscaping business plan sample below will give you an idea of what one should look like. It is not as comprehensive and successful in raising capital for your landscaping as Growthink’s Ultimate Landscaping Business Plan Template , but it can help you write a landscaping business plan of your own.

Landscaping Business Plan Example – GreenScape Artistry

Table of contents, executive summary, company overview, industry analysis, customer analysis, competitive analysis, marketing plan, operations plan, management team, financial plan.

Welcome to GreenScape Artistry, a dynamic and innovative landscaping business based in Mesa, AZ. As a local enterprise, we’re excited to fill the significant market gap for premium landscaping services in our community. Our mission is ambitious yet simple: to exceed our customers’ expectations with unmatched landscaping solutions. We understand the unique needs of the Mesa community and are dedicated to offering a broad spectrum of services, including Landscape Design, Lawn Maintenance, Hardscaping Installation, Planting and Garden Maintenance, and Irrigation System Installation and Maintenance. Our headquarters, nestled in the heart of Mesa, positions us perfectly to serve our neighbors with the excellence they deserve.

Our optimism for GreenScape Artistry’s success is built on solid ground. With a foundation laid by our founder’s extensive experience in landscaping and a commitment to exceptional service at competitive prices, we stand out from the competition. Since our launch as an S Corporation on January 5, 2024, we’ve achieved notable milestones, including the development of a brand identity, securing a prime operational base, and beginning to establish our presence in Mesa. These accomplishments signal the start of our journey to becoming Mesa’s preferred landscaping service provider, and we look forward to the growth and challenges ahead.

The landscaping industry in the United States is flourishing, boasting a market size of over $99 billion as of 2020. It’s an industry on the rise, thanks in part to an increasing interest in outdoor living spaces and sustainable landscaping practices. GreenScape Artistry is poised to capitalize on these trends, offering environmentally friendly landscaping solutions and creative designs for outdoor living spaces. Our location in Mesa, AZ, places us in the heart of a market that values sustainability and innovation, making our services particularly relevant and in demand.

GreenScape Artistry targets Mesa’s residents and small businesses, focusing on those who prioritize both aesthetic appeal and functionality in their outdoor spaces. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of homeowners seeking personalized landscaping that reflects their style while accommodating the Mesa climate. Additionally, we serve small businesses and real estate developers in Mesa, offering solutions to enhance their exterior appeal and property values. Our comprehensive approach ensures we meet the diverse needs of our customer base, from simple makeovers to extensive landscape designs.

Our main competitors include Just Right Lawn Maintenance, Francysco Landscaping, and Shady Tree Services and Landscaping. These companies have their strengths, from customer service to innovative designs and specialized tree care. However, GreenScape Artistry sets itself apart with superior landscaping services at competitive prices, a focus on sustainability, and a customer-centric approach that offers personalized solutions. Our experienced team and innovative techniques ensure we deliver exceptional quality and value, establishing us as a leading choice for landscaping services in Mesa, AZ.

At GreenScape Artistry, we offer a wide range of landscaping services designed to enhance any outdoor space. From landscape design to lawn maintenance and irrigation system installation, our services are tailored to meet our clients’ specific needs, ensuring satisfaction and sustainability. Our marketing strategy employs a mix of online and traditional methods, including a user-friendly website, active social media engagement, local SEO, and community involvement. We aim to build strong customer relationships through these channels, supported by email marketing campaigns, local events participation, and a referral program to attract and retain customers in the Mesa, AZ area.

To ensure GreenScape Artistry’s success, we prioritize efficient day-to-day operations, including customer communication, project planning, supply management, and team coordination. Our focus on quality control, billing accuracy, and ongoing maintenance services supports our commitment to excellence. Marketing and feedback collection are integral to our operations, allowing us to adapt and improve continually. Key milestones for our growth include establishing a strong brand, developing a comprehensive service portfolio, securing client contracts, and achieving operational efficiency, all aimed at reaching $15,000/month in revenue and adjusting our strategy for continued success.

Zoey Campbell, our President, brings invaluable experience and a proven track record from her previous landscaping business to GreenScape Artistry. Her leadership is defined by strategic growth, operational efficiency, and a relentless pursuit of quality and customer satisfaction. Zoey’s comprehensive understanding of the landscaping industry and her vision for incorporating sustainable practices make her an ideal leader to steer GreenScape Artistry toward becoming an industry leader in Mesa, AZ.

Welcome to GreenScape Artistry, a fresh and vibrant landscaping business newly established to serve the community of Mesa, AZ. As a local venture, we have identified a significant gap in the market for high-quality landscaping services. Our mission is to fill this void by offering unparalleled landscaping solutions that not only meet but exceed our customers’ expectations. We pride ourselves on being a local business that understands the unique landscaping needs and preferences of the Mesa community.

At GreenScape Artistry, our portfolio of services is designed to cater to a wide range of landscaping needs. From the initial design phase to regular lawn maintenance, we are equipped to handle all aspects of your landscaping project. Our services include Landscape Design, where we bring your vision to life with innovative and sustainable designs; Lawn Maintenance, ensuring your outdoor space remains pristine and vibrant; Hardscaping Installation, adding structure and elegance to your garden with stone pathways, patios, and more; Planting and Garden Maintenance, where we select and care for plants that thrive in the Mesa climate; and Irrigation System Installation and Maintenance, to keep your garden lush and healthy with efficient water management systems. Located right in the heart of Mesa, AZ, we are committed to serving our local community with these top-notch landscaping services.

Our confidence in the success of GreenScape Artistry is rooted in several key factors. Firstly, our founder brings a wealth of experience from previously running a successful landscaping business, ensuring that we have the knowledge and expertise required to excel in this industry. Additionally, we are committed to providing superior landscaping services at competitive prices, setting us apart from our competitors. Our approach is customer-centric, focusing on delivering exceptional quality and value to every project we undertake.

Since our inception on January 5, 2024, as an S Corporation, we have made significant strides in establishing our brand presence in Mesa, AZ. Our accomplishments to date include the creation of our logo, which encapsulates our brand’s identity and values, the development of our company name that resonates with our mission and vision, and securing a prime location that serves as the base for our operations. These milestones mark the beginning of our journey towards becoming the go-to landscaping service provider in Mesa, and we are excited about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

The landscaping industry in the United States is thriving, with an estimated market size of over $99 billion in 2020. This industry includes businesses that provide a range of services such as lawn care, tree trimming, and landscape design. With an increasing focus on outdoor living spaces and sustainable landscaping practices, the market is expected to continue growing in the coming years.

One of the key trends driving growth in the landscaping industry is the increasing demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable landscaping solutions. Consumers are becoming more conscious of their environmental impact and are seeking out companies that can provide eco-friendly landscaping services. This trend bodes well for GreenScape Artistry, as a new landscaping company serving customers in Mesa, AZ, that specializes in using sustainable practices and materials in their designs.

In addition to the focus on sustainability, another trend in the landscaping industry is the growing interest in creating outdoor living spaces that serve as extensions of the home. This includes features such as outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and seating areas. As more homeowners look to enhance their outdoor spaces for both relaxation and entertainment purposes, there is a growing need for landscaping companies like GreenScape Artistry that can provide creative and functional designs to meet these demands.

Below is a description of our target customers and their core needs.

Target Customers

GreenScape Artistry will target local residents who are keen on enhancing their outdoor living spaces. These customers typically value a combination of aesthetic appeal and functionality in their gardens, yards, or patios. The company will tailor its services to meet the unique desires of homeowners looking for customized landscaping solutions that reflect their personal style and the arid Mesa climate.

Aside from local homeowners, GreenScape Artistry will also cater to small businesses in Mesa seeking to improve their exterior appearance. First impressions are crucial in the business world, and a well-maintained landscape can attract more customers and improve the overall perception of a business. Services will be customized to create welcoming and professional environments that stand out in the local community.

Additionally, GreenScape Artistry will target real estate developers and property managers looking for landscaping services that can increase property values and curb appeal. This segment understands the importance of landscaping in selling homes or maintaining attractive rental properties. The company will offer scalable solutions to fit the varied needs of this customer segment, from simple makeovers to comprehensive landscape designs.

Customer Needs

GreenScape Artistry caters to the desires of residents seeking high-quality landscaping services and lawn maintenance. Customers can expect not only aesthetically pleasing landscapes but also sustainable solutions that enhance their outdoor living spaces. This commitment to excellence ensures that every project meets the highest standards of functionality and design.

In addition to regular maintenance, customers have access to customized landscaping solutions that reflect their personal style and the unique characteristics of their property. GreenScape Artistry understands the importance of creating outdoor environments that are both beautiful and practical. Whether it’s installing water-efficient irrigation systems, selecting drought-tolerant plants, or crafting serene garden spaces, the company meets diverse customer needs with creativity and expertise.

Moreover, GreenScape Artistry recognizes the growing desire for outdoor spaces that serve multiple purposes – from relaxation and entertainment to gardening and play. By offering flexible design options and innovative landscaping techniques, the company helps customers maximize the use and enjoyment of their outdoor areas. This holistic approach to landscaping ensures that every project not only looks great but also adds value to the property and enhances the quality of life for its inhabitants.

GreenScape Artistry’s competitors include the following companies:

Just Right Lawn Maintenance offers a range of services including lawn care, trimming, and seasonal cleanups. Their price points cater to both middle and high-end markets, aiming to provide value through comprehensive maintenance packages. They report moderate revenues, indicating a solid customer base within their operational geography which primarily encompasses the wider Mesa, AZ area. Their key strengths lie in their customer service and reliability. However, they face weaknesses in the breadth of their landscaping design services, which are more limited compared to others in the market.

Francysco Landscaping specializes in landscape design, installation, and maintenance services. They serve both residential and commercial customers, offering competitive pricing that appeals to a broad market segment. Their revenues are on the higher end, reflecting a strong presence in Mesa, AZ, and surrounding areas. Francysco Landscaping is known for its innovative designs and use of sustainable practices, positioning it as a leader in eco-friendly landscaping solutions. The main weakness identified is the occasional longer lead times for project commencement due to high demand.

Shady Tree Services and Landscaping provides comprehensive tree care, including pruning, removal, and emergency services, alongside traditional landscaping services. Their pricing strategy is aligned with industry standards, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of customers. Operating primarily in Mesa, AZ, they have built a reputation for prompt and efficient service, contributing to their steady revenue stream. A key strength is their specialized expertise in arboriculture, making them a go-to for tree-related services. However, they have a weakness in marketing and online presence, limiting their visibility to potential customers outside of word-of-mouth referrals.

Competitive Advantages

At GreenScape Artistry, we pride ourselves on delivering superior landscaping services at the most competitive prices in the market. Our commitment to quality ensures that every project we undertake is executed with the utmost precision and creativity, setting us apart from the competition. By leveraging the latest landscaping techniques and technologies, we can offer innovative solutions that not only meet but exceed our customers’ expectations. This dedication to excellence and innovation positions us as a leader in the landscaping industry, providing our clients with exceptional value for their investment.

Furthermore, our customer-centric approach is a significant competitive advantage. We understand that each client has unique needs and visions for their outdoor spaces. Therefore, we offer personalized consultations and tailor our services to align with their specific requirements and budget constraints. This flexibility and attention to detail ensure a seamless and satisfying experience for our customers, fostering long-term relationships and a strong reputation in the Mesa, AZ community. In addition, our skilled and experienced team is committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, making us an ideal choice for clients looking to enhance their landscapes while minimizing their environmental footprint.

Our marketing plan, included below, details our products/services, pricing and promotions plan.

Products and Services

GreenScape Artistry offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to enhance the beauty and functionality of any outdoor space. With a focus on creativity, sustainability, and client satisfaction, they ensure every project, big or small, is handled with utmost care and professionalism. Below is a detailed look at the key products and services they offer, along with the average selling price for each service.

Landscape Design stands at the forefront of GreenScape Artistry’s offerings. This service encompasses a detailed planning and design process, where clients can expect personalized solutions that blend aesthetics with functionality. Whether it’s a serene garden or a modern outdoor living space, the team works closely with clients to bring their vision to life. The average cost for Landscape Design services hovers around $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the complexity and scale of the project.

Lawn Maintenance is another critical service offered, ensuring that clients’ lawns remain lush, healthy, and well-manicured throughout the year. This service includes mowing, edging, weed control, and fertilization, among other maintenance tasks. Clients can expect to pay approximately $100 to $300 per month for Lawn Maintenance, with variations based on the size of the lawn and the frequency of the service.

Hardscaping Installation is for those looking to add a durable and aesthetic element to their landscape. From patios and walkways to retaining walls and fire pits, GreenScape Artistry can transform any outdoor area into a functional and inviting space. The cost of Hardscaping Installation can vary widely, from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on materials and project scope.

Planting and Garden Maintenance services are designed for clients who wish to enrich their outdoor spaces with vibrant plants, flowers, and trees. This service not only includes the initial planting but also ongoing maintenance to ensure the garden thrives. Prices for Planting and Garden Maintenance typically range from $500 to $3,000, reflecting the diversity of plant choices and the extent of the garden area.

Last but not least, Irrigation System Installation and Maintenance is a critical service for maintaining a healthy and vibrant landscape in the arid Mesa climate. GreenScape Artistry specializes in the installation of efficient irrigation systems and offers regular maintenance to keep them functioning optimally. Clients can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,500 for installation and an annual maintenance fee of $150 to $450, depending on system complexity and size.

GreenScape Artistry is dedicated to providing high-quality landscaping services that meet and exceed client expectations. With a team of experienced professionals and a passion for outdoor design, they are equipped to handle projects of all sizes, ensuring each client’s outdoor space is not only beautiful but also sustainable and functional.

Promotions Plan

GreenScape Artistry employs a multi-faceted approach to attract customers through a blend of traditional and modern promotional methods, with a strong emphasis on online marketing. Understanding the importance of digital presence, the company invests in a robust online marketing strategy. This involves the creation of a user-friendly website that highlights their portfolio of landscaping projects, customer testimonials, and detailed information about their services. Additionally, they maintain an active presence on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to showcase their latest projects, share landscaping tips, and engage with the community.

Apart from online marketing, GreenScape Artistry also leverages local SEO tactics to ensure they appear prominently in search results when potential customers in Mesa, AZ, search for landscaping services. This includes optimizing their website content with relevant keywords, managing their Google My Business listing, and gathering positive reviews from satisfied customers to enhance their visibility and credibility online.

Email marketing campaigns form another pillar of their promotional efforts. By collecting email addresses through their website and social media channels, GreenScape Artistry sends out regular newsletters that feature special offers, seasonal landscaping tips, and updates on new services or projects. This keeps them top of mind with their audience and encourages repeat business and referrals.

Understanding the power of community, GreenScape Artistry also participates in local events and home shows. This direct engagement allows them to display their expertise, meet potential customers face-to-face, and build relationships within the community. They also sponsor local sports teams and community events as a way to increase brand visibility and show their support for the Mesa community.

Referral programs are another tactic GreenScape Artistry employs to attract new customers. They incentivize existing customers to refer friends and family by offering discounts or special services in return. This word-of-mouth marketing is highly effective in building trust and expanding their customer base organically.

In conclusion, GreenScape Artistry utilizes a comprehensive mix of online marketing, local SEO, email marketing, community engagement, and referral programs to attract customers in Mesa, AZ. By combining these methods, they not only aim to reach a wide audience but also to build lasting relationships with their customers, ensuring the growth and success of their landscaping business.

Our Operations Plan details:

• The key day-to-day processes that our business performs to serve our customers
• The key business milestones that our company expects to accomplish as we grow

Key Operational Processes

To ensure the success of GreenScape Artistry, there are several key day-to-day operational processes that we will perform.

• Customer Communication: Maintain regular and clear communication with clients to understand their needs, schedule appointments, and provide updates on project progress.
• Project Planning and Design: Work closely with customers to plan and design their landscaping projects, ensuring their visions are feasible and within budget.
• Supply Management: Order, track, and manage the inventory of plants, materials, and equipment needed for scheduled projects to ensure availability and efficient use of resources.
• Team Coordination: Schedule and coordinate the work of landscaping teams, ensuring they have the necessary information, tools, and materials to complete their tasks efficiently.
• Quality Control: Monitor the quality of work performed by the landscaping teams, ensuring all projects meet the company’s standards and customer satisfaction.
• Billing and Invoicing: Accurately track time and resources spent on each project to generate and send invoices to clients, and follow up on payments.
• Maintenance Services: Provide ongoing maintenance services for completed projects, ensuring landscapes remain healthy and beautiful.
• Marketing and Promotion: Implement marketing strategies to attract new customers, including social media marketing, local advertising, and promotional offers.
• Feedback Collection: Actively seek and collect feedback from customers to identify areas for improvement and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction.
• Training and Development: Provide regular training and skill development opportunities for employees to ensure high quality of work and adaptability to new landscaping techniques and trends.
• Health and Safety Compliance: Ensure all operations comply with relevant health and safety regulations, including proper use of equipment and handling of materials.
• Financial Management: Monitor and manage the company’s finances, including budgeting, expense tracking, and financial forecasting to ensure profitability and sustainability.

GreenScape Artistry expects to complete the following milestones in the coming months in order to ensure its success:

• Launch Our Landscaping Business : Secure necessary permits and licenses specific to Mesa, AZ, for landscaping services, purchase initial equipment, and establish a business location if necessary. This foundational step is crucial for a legitimate start.
• Develop a Strong Brand and Online Presence : Create a professional website and social media profiles to showcase services, previous work, and customer testimonials. This milestone will help in attracting and retaining customers by establishing trust and showcasing capabilities.
• Build a Comprehensive Service Portfolio : Develop a range of services tailored to the Mesa, AZ climate and customer needs, including drought-resistant landscaping, garden design, maintenance services, and more. This will cater to a wider market segment and meet various customer needs.
• Secure Initial Client Contracts : Aim to secure a certain number of contracts or projects within the first few months of operation. This will generate initial revenue and help in building a portfolio.
• Establish Partnerships with Local Suppliers : Forge relationships with local suppliers for plants, materials, and other necessities. This will ensure the quality and availability of supplies, potentially at discounted rates due to long-term partnerships.
• Implement an Effective Marketing Strategy : Launch targeted advertising campaigns both online (social media, Google Ads) and locally (flyers, local newspapers, community boards) to increase brand visibility and attract customers.
• Hire and Train a Skilled Team : As demand grows, hire additional staff with the necessary skills and provide training to ensure high-quality service. This will also include developing efficient operational processes to manage projects effectively.
• Achieve Operational Efficiency : Streamline operations through effective scheduling, project management, and customer relationship management systems to reduce costs and improve customer satisfaction.
• Get to $15,000/Month in Revenue : This is a critical financial milestone that will indicate market acceptance and the ability to cover operational costs, reinvest in the business, and start generating profit.
• Review and Adjust Business Strategy : After reaching initial milestones, conduct a comprehensive review of business performance, customer feedback, and market trends. Adjust the business strategy, services, and operations as necessary to ensure continued growth and success.

GreenScape Artistry management team, which includes the following members, has the experience and expertise to successfully execute on our business plan:

Zoey Campbell, President

Zoey Campbell, President, brings a wealth of experience to GreenScape Artistry, underscored by her successful tenure at the helm of a previous landscaping business. Her background in the industry is marked by a series of strategic growth initiatives and operational efficiencies that have led to significant business achievements. Zoey’s leadership style is characterized by a proactive approach to problem-solving and an unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Her experience in managing all aspects of a landscaping business, from client relations to project management and financial oversight, makes her uniquely qualified to guide GreenScape Artistry towards its goal of becoming a leader in the landscaping industry. Zoey’s vision for the company involves not only expanding its service offerings but also implementing sustainable practices that will ensure its long-term success and the well-being of the communities it serves.

GreenScape Artistry is seeking $232,000 in funding to achieve our growth objectives. This investment will be allocated towards both capital and non-capital needs, including location buildout, equipment purchases, initial working capital, and marketing efforts. Our financial strategy is designed to ensure we have the foundation and resources needed to expand our services, attract and retain customers, and ultimately establish GreenScape Artistry as a premier landscaping service provider in Mesa, AZ.

Financial Statements

Balance sheet.

[insert balance sheet]

Income Statement

[insert income statement]

Cash Flow Statement

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Landscaping Business Plan Example PDF

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Anyone with a yard knows that maintaining it is a lot of work. So it's no surprise that there are so many landscaping businesses out there to help eliminate the need for mowing, weeding, treating and doing more lawn maintenance yourself.

If you, however, are someone who loves to do yard work and the smell of freshly cut grass or a newly mulched garden is your favorite, you may have wondered how to start a landscaping business of your own.

The landscaping business is booming; and if you live somewhere with a warm climate, you may be able to work nearly year-round. The landscape services industry makes $93 billion in revenue each year and employs more than 1 million people, according to the National Association of Landscape Professionals.

If this sounds like the right move for you, keep reading to find out how to start a landscaping business of your own.

How to start a landscaping business in 5 steps

Considering the range and depth of landscaping — from residential to commercial, maintenance to removal and designing to tree care — the economics of starting your own landscaping business are remarkably simple. It can be as easy as renting a lawnmower and knocking on doors.

“My previous company was a lawn care business that I grew from myself and a push mower to over 125 employees,” says Bryan Clayton, the founder of GreenPal, an online lawn care ordering service that is a bit like the Uber of landscaping.

“Most customers have to deal with shoddy and unprofessional competitors,” says Clayton. “Creating a successful landscaping business is almost easy if you simply answer the phone when your customer calls, return their voicemails promptly, and do the work that you agree to with your clientele.”

Sounds simple enough, right? But what else can a landscaping business owner do to move beyond the basics? Here are some tricks of the trade as you start your landscaping business.

1. Decide what services you want to offer and whether you want to rent or buy equipment

The first step to starting a landscaping business is to acquire your arsenal of landscaping equipment. Once you decide which actual services you want your landscaping business to offer, you'll know what equipment you need. Then it'll be time to decide whether you want to buy it outright or opt for the cheaper option of renting.

Starting out, you have the option to rent your equipment or to buy lower-grade equipment. But as your landscaping business grows, so will equipment needs and costs — and you could easily spend the same amount on maintaining cheap equipment as the price of purchasing higher-grade machines.

“Most landscape contractors will need to spend five to 10 hours a week maintaining their equipment at first by sharpening blades or changing oil, spark plugs, air filters, fuel filters, and so on,” says Clayton.

So what are the basics of good landscaping equipment you'll need to know when starting a landscaping business?

There are a handful of manual tools any good landscaper should have at their disposal: shovels (such as square-mouth, spade, and trench), wheelbarrows, tillers (such as rear-tine tillers or cultivators), and more powerful items like chainsaws and drills. But this isn’t where the real expenses lie. The cost of larger equipment might surprise you.

“Most people don't know this, but the riding lawnmowers that you see commercial landscape operators running cost over $12,000 themselves,” says Clayton.

Landscape contractors need to make even bigger investments, according to Clayton:

“Landscape contractors also need to purchase or finance a decent truck, which costs at least $10,000 used, and a trailer, which costs $5,000+,” Clayton says. “Also, for landscape construction, you will need in most cases a front-end loader, which will cost $10,000 to $50,000 by itself.”

All told, Clayton estimates that landscape construction and maintenance businesses need to bring between $40,000 to $50,000 worth of equipment to a customer’s property. That’s why you might want to start off with rentals — which puts set-up costs at a more reasonable ballpark of $3,000, according to Clayton — but don’t depend on them forever.

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

2. Get the required business insurance, licenses and EIN

There are a few necessary forms of business insurance you need to obtain to conduct business at all. The most important is general liability insurance, which covers everything from the cost of repairs to legal fees to damages that need to be paid out if you or an employee accidentally causes damage. Accidents — like running over a sprinkler head with the mower, for example — happen, and you want to be covered when they do.

You might also need workers' compensation insurance , depending on what state you’re operating in, though as Clayton puts it, “Many states require both insurances to operate a legitimate business regardless of whether you have employees or not.” Workers' comp covers you in the event an employee is injured on the job, from medical expenses to court costs.

Other forms of insurance that aren’t required, but may come in handy, include inland marine insurance (for coverage of goods damaged in transit), commercial auto insurance (you can’t use your personal vehicle for most of what you lug around and your personal policy won’t cover your commercial vehicles) and commercial umbrella insurance (which expands your coverage in case you’re hit with a major settlement).

Additionally, if you’re looking to apply pesticides as part of your services, most states have a pesticide charter that needs to be acquired. Clayton calls this “a very involved process” and doesn’t recommend it until you’re well-established in your field.

Before you start operating your business, make sure you also have any business licenses you need for the state you're operating in and that you've registered to pay taxes and received your employer identification number, also called a business tax ID number.

The rules around which business licenses you need and where to get them vary from state to state, so check the specifics for the state where your business will be operating before you start your landscaping business.

3. Get employment law liability insurance before you scale

Another form of insurance you'll need when starting a landscaping business is employment law liability insurance, which covers your business in case you make mistakes around calculating overtime and wage and hour violations.

Considering the uncertainty around the future of overtime wages, and the fact that many small-business owners tend to go it alone at first without the aid of a lawyer or an accountant, this insurance could be a life-saver — or more accurately, a business-saver.

Clayton describes his “personal nightmare” that resulted from not having this insurance as follows:

“In 2009 my company was audited by the Department of Labor and they determined that our crew leader managers could not be paid a salary — they needed to be paid as hourly wage employees,” he says. “This, in turn, kicked in additional overtime charges that were due to 80 employees, and it resulted in a $450,000 fine that my company had to pay.”

Not having that insurance almost killed Clayton’s company. Take his experience as a lesson that having that insurance in place — particularly before you scale — is crucial to your landscaping business.

4. Develop a marketing plan and decide on prices

When it comes to marketing your landscaping business, you already know where to start: Facebook and other social media, as well as SEO tactics, will increase your search visibility on Google and other search engines.

Of course, word-of-mouth marketing is always the best, especially in hyper-local markets, but that comes with doing good work overtime. So while you wait for the glowing reviews to be passed around town, consider setting up your social accounts first as you start your landscaping business.

Clayton says that mastering all of the typical marketing channels, and putting a starting budget of $500 to $2,000 in place to acquire your first 10 to 100 customers, is the best way to start. A digital marketing expert may be necessary to bring your game to the next level once you expand your landscaping business.

When you're first starting your landscaping business, you should also decide on the prices of your services so you can include those in your marketing efforts. Any potential customers will want to know what they'll be charged for the various landscaping services your business will offer.

When you're deciding on your rates, it's a good idea to check out the competition and see what prices similar businesses are offering, then go from there. But remember, you can always adjust rates as you go.

5. Get your business financials in order

When you're starting a landscaping business, it's crucial that you keep your finances on track. And we're probably past the days of using a pen and paper to keep track of all your business expenses, schedules, and accounts. Even spreadsheet applications, though capable of handling large quantities of information, are a bit outdated.

Luckily, there are plenty of business apps out there that can help your landscaping business operate more smoothly. There are apps and software to help with everything from inventory management and payroll to employee timesheets so you can focus on the important things — like actual landscaping work.

Clayton also recommends accounting software for new landscape contractors. You'll be able to manage invoices and, depending on the program, even automate fixed asset management.

LLC Formation

Starting a landscaping business: The economics

Most lawn care operators make between $30 and $50 per hour. If you’re interested in going further — if you feel like you have the work ethic, dedication, people skills and willingness to learn (be it about new technologies like management software or small-business marketing) — little is stopping you from starting your own landscaping business.

Clayton went on to sell his business in 2013, in the largest acquisition in the lawn care industry in a decade, before starting GreenPal. And remember: He got started on his own, with just a push mower to his name. Success isn’t guaranteed to everybody who gets into landscaping, but it’s a field that shows no sign of disappearing anytime soon. And there’s no time like the present to capitalize on people’s love of a well-manicured lawn.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

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How to write the business plan for a landscaping company

Having a well-crafted business plan is essential for any landscaping company, regardless of whether it's a startup or an existing business.

A comprehensive and effective business plan will help you to assess the feasibility of your venture, as well as provide potential investors with the data they need to make informed decisions.

This in-depth guide provides all the necessary information you need to write a successful business plan for your landscaping company. It covers why writing a business plan is important, what should be included in it, and what tools can be used to create one.

Let's get started!

In this guide:

Why write a business plan for a landscaping company?

Information needed to create a business plan for a landscaping company, how do i build a financial forecast for a landscaping company, the written part of a landscaping company business plan, what tool should i use to write my landscaping business plan.

There are several reasons to write a landscaping business plan. Below, we cover some of the most important ones!

To draw up a clear roadmap

Writing a business plan for a landscaping company helps you focus on key objectives, assess the competitive landscape, and create strategies for achieving success over the next 3 to 5 years.

For existing businesses already established in the landscaping industry, it can be used as a tool to review progress and set new goals.

A well-crafted business plan will guide how best to allocate resources across all aspects of operations – from marketing activities to staff recruitment and training – allowing you to maximize your chances of success.

To help compare financial performance

It also helps you compare your financial performance with what was planned in the budget and recalibrate your financial forecasts if needed.

Having such a tool also makes forecasting easier since you'll already have an idea of where your business should be in the future (financially).

This can help you adjust quickly to changes in the market or other external factors that may affect future profitability.

To help raise investor or bank financing

If you're looking to secure financing from equity investors or banks, having a well-written business plan is essential.

Investors will be expecting to see healthy growth, profitability and cash generation in the business plan to increase the likelihood that their investment will generate a good rate of return.

Therefore, any potential investor must have access to all the necessary information about your landscaping company's proposed operations, financial projections and competitive analysis.

With this information at hand, they can make informed decisions about whether or not to invest in your business.

Having an understanding of why a business plan is important for a landscaping company is the first step, but now it’s time to look at what information you need to create one.

Need a convincing business plan?

The Business Plan Shop makes it easy to create a financial forecast to assess the potential profitability of your projects, and write a business plan that’ll wow investors.

Writing a landscaping business plan requires research so that you can project sales, investments and cost accurately in your financial forecast.

In this section, we cover three key pieces of information you should gather before drafting your plan.

Carrying out market research for a landscaping company

Carrying out market research before writing a business plan for a landscaping company is essential to ensure that the financial projections are accurate and realistic.

Market research helps entrepreneurs gain insight into their target customer base, competitors, pricing strategies and other key factors which can have an impact on the success of the business.

In particular, it is useful in forecasting revenue as it provides valuable data regarding potential customers’ spending habits and preferences.

This information can then be used to create more accurate financial projections which will help investors make informed decisions about investing in your landscaping company.

Developing the marketing plan for a landscaping company

Creating a marketing plan for a landscaping company is crucial when writing up a business plan.

This is because sales and marketing expenses need to be incorporated in the financial projections. Having a sales and marketing plan in place before creating the business plan will ensure the right level of resources are allocated to these activities in your budget.

This plan should provide an accurate prediction of how much needs to be spent on promotions, advertising, public relations and other initiatives.

The staffing and equipment needs of a landscaping company

When considering the creation of your landscaping business plan, you should factor in the financial investments needed for adequate recruitment and budget planning.

You will need to think about the equipment (vehicles, gardening tools, etc.) and how many people will need to be recruited to deliver the plan. This will serve as the foundation for creating a realistic financial forecast.

Once you have gathered all the necessary information, you can move on to creating a financial forecast for your landscaping company.

A financial forecast is an estimation of how successful the business will be financed over a certain period.

It involves analyzing and predicting key financial metrics such as sales revenues, expenses, cash flow and profits.

The four key outputs of any financial forecast include:

• Profit and loss statement (P&L)
• Balance sheet
• Cash flow statement
• Sources & uses table

The projected P&L statement

The projected P&L statement for a landscaping company helps us to understand how much money it will make (expected profitability) and how much it will grow in the future.

The projected balance sheet of your landscaping company

The balance sheet is a financial statement that provides an overview of a landscaping company’s assets, liabilities, and equity at any given point in time.

• Assets are items that the company owns and can be used to produce income or generate cash.
• Liabilities are obligations owed by the company, such as loans or taxes.
• Equity is the difference between assets and liabilities and is a proxy of the net worth of the owners.

The balance sheet is useful to lenders, investors, and the business owner as it provides a snapshot of the financial structure of the company.

It can help lenders and investors assess the company’s solvency and liquidity, which is important when considering whether to extend credit or invest in the company.

The projected cash flow statement

A cash flow forecast for a landscaping company is a document that shows when cash is expected to come in or out of the business and what it will be used for.

It helps you ensure the company as enough cash on balance sheet to operate and to anticipate potential funding requirements.

The initial financing plan

An initial financing plan is a table that shows the sources of money and how it will be used when starting a landscaping company.

It helps you see how much money you need to start the business, where it will come from, and what it will be used for.

This can help you make sure that your business has enough of a starting cash position to get started so that you don't run out of funds before the business gets going.

Now that you have an understanding of the financial forecast for your landscaping business, it's important to understand how to properly convey this information in the written part of your business plan.

The written part of a landscaping company plan is composed of 7 main sections:

• The executive summary
• The presentation of the company
• The products and services section
• The market analysis section
• The strategy section
• The operations section
• The financial plan

1. The executive summary

The executive summary of a landscaping business plan should provide an overview of the company, its goals, and the industry it operates in.

It should contain information about the market landscape and key financials, as well as any competitive advantages or unique services the company may have.

It should also provide insight into why investors and customers might be interested in the company's offerings and how the company plans to implement its strategy.

Finally, the executive summary should include a clear statement of what the company is asking for in the business plan.

2. The presentation of the company

When writing the presentation of a landscaping company, there are three main parts you should focus on: structure & ownership, location and the management team.

Structure & ownership is an important part of the presentation as it provides a clear understanding of the legal structure and financial ownership of the company, who are the major stakeholders and how much each of them holds.

Location is also an important part of the presentation as it helps to determine your serviceable area.

Finally, the management team section should include detailed information on key personnel who are responsible for the daily operations of the business such as the managing director or CEO.

3. The products and services section

When writing a business plan for a landscaping company, it is important to include an accurate and thorough description of the products and services offered.

You should provide potential investors or lenders with a clear picture of the scope of work that will be done by the company.

To do this effectively, it is necessary to list each type of service provided in detail as well as any specialized equipment used in those services.

For example, if your company provides lawn care services such as mowing, edging, trimming shrubs, fertilizing, etc., you should list each one individually along with what types of tools or skills are needed for each job.

You should also mention any other related landscaping tasks that may be requested on occasion by customers such as leaf removal or snow ploughing so prospective investors can get an idea of how comprehensive your offerings are.

Additionally, make sure to describe any unique features or specialities that set your business apart from others in the same field.

4. The market analysis

When presenting the conclusions of your market analysis in a landscaping company business plan, you need to include key information about demographics and segmentation, target markets, competition, barriers at entry and regulation.

The demographics and segmentation will provide useful insight into who may be interested in using your services as well as what areas you should focus on marketing-wise.

It can also give you ideas for new products or services to offer clients based on observed trends within certain market segments.

Knowing your target market helps with budgeting since it allows you to more accurately calculate how much money needs to be set aside for advertising and campaigns geared towards customer segments (resorts, homeowners etc.).

Additionally, understanding what type of customers prefer which service or product can help inform decisions when creating new offerings.

Giving an insight into the level of competition in both the local and national markets is also essential because it gives investors a better picture of what already exists in the market. You can then create unique selling points to differentiate your business from them.

Lastly, looking into barriers to entry imposed by local authorities will allow you to identify any potential roadblocks before starting operations which could save time down the line.

5. The strategy section

When writing the strategy section of your landscaping company business plan, you should focus on several key elements to ensure that it appeals to potential investors. These include competitive edge, pricing strategy, marketing plan, milestones and risks and mitigants.

Your competitive edge could include having access to superior technology or experience with a certain type of landscaping project.

The pricing strategy should also be outlined so that potential investors are aware of how much money can potentially be made from each job completed.

In addition, the marketing plan must demonstrate how your company plans to acquire new customers as and retain existing ones.

Milestones also need to be included so that investors can track progress over time and feel confident about investing in the venture.

Finally, any risks associated with starting up or running your landscaping business must be addressed along with possible ways these risks can be minimized or eliminated.

6. The operations section

The operations section of a landscaping company business plan provides key information about the nuts and bolts of how the business will be run.

First, the plan should outline the staffing team and staff members roles within the organization. For example, it should list the titles and responsibilities of staff members, including any independent contractors or subcontractors.

It should also include a recruitment plan that outlines how the company intends to select and train new employees.

You should also indicate the opening hours of the business and key assets needed for operations, such as specialized tools or intellectual property.

In addition, it is important to include information about the suppliers the company plans to work with. Key contacts might include businesses that provide equipment repair (for example, if your chainsaw stops working and you need it fixed quickly).

7. The presentation of the financial plan

This is where you will present the financial forecast that we talked about earlier in this guide.

Now that you have a better understanding of what should be included in the content of your landscaping business plan, it’s time to look at the tools that can help you create one.

There are 3 main solutions to write a landscaping company business plan:

Create your landscaping company plan using Word or Excel

Hire a consultant to write your landscaping company business plan.

• Use an online business plan software for your car landscaping company plan

Creating a business plan for a landscaping company using Microsoft Office programs like Word and Excel is an attractive option given their affordability. But, there are also drawbacks to this approach that should be considered.

One of the main advantages of using Word and Excel to write a landscaping business plan is the cost - both programs are relatively cheap and widely available.

However, creating a financial forecast in Excel can be difficult without expert knowledge in accounting and modelling.

Furthermore, financiers may not trust the accuracy of the plan created in Excel by an inexperienced business owner.

Additionally, it takes longer to create a financial forecast using Excel and updating it as required is also challenging.

Outsourcing a landscaping company plan to a consultant or accountant is an attractive option for many business owners.

On the plus side, consultants are well-versed in writing business plans and both consultants and accountants have a knack for creating accurate financial forecasts.

On the other hand, accountants lack industry expertise to estimate sales accurately and their services cost significantly more than doing it yourself.

Plus, entrepreneurs who outsource a business plan may have less control over the final product compared to writing it themselves.

For example, not all consultants are experts in landscaping company business planning, thus potentially limiting their value.

Ultimately, business owners need to be aware of the pros and cons associated with outsourcing their landscaping company plan before making a decision.

It may cost more but can be worth it if the right consultant or accountant is hired who truly understands the entrepreneur’s goals and objectives.

Use an online business plan software for your landscaping company plan

Another alternative is to use online business plan software. There are several advantages to doing so:

• You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan 
• You can be inspired by already-written business plan templates and examples
• You can easily make your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you
• You get a professional document, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank or investors
• You can easily compare your forecast against your accounting data to make sure you are on track to deliver your plan, or make adjustments if needed

If you're interested in using this type of solution, you can try our software for free by signing up here .

We hope that this article has helped you to better understand how to write the business plan for your landscaping company. Do not hesitate to contact us if you still have questions!

Also on The Business Plan Shop

• How investors analyse business plans
• How to do a market analysis for a business plan
• Business plan vs budget: what's the difference?
• Business plan pricing strategy template
• Business plan definition

Know someone in the landscaping industry? Share this article with them!

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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Ready to Turn Your Love for Lawns and Gardens Into a Career? Here’s How to Start a Landscaping Business

By Amber Guetebier

Updated on Feb 27, 2024 10:56 PM EST

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›

Whether someone has been working in the landscaping industry for years or has just completed one of the best online landscape design courses and is ready to get to work, starting a landscaping business can be a lucrative venture. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , the average salary for a landscaper is $35,890 per year or $17.92 per hour, but starting a landscaping business can increase earning potential.

With perks like time spent outdoors and beautifying neighborhoods, a landscaping business can offer freedom from a desk job along with monetary gain, but the cost to start a business is not insignificant. Between the expense of tools and equipment and determining what licenses and permits they may need, entrepreneurs will need a comprehensive landscaping business plan, as well as a way to execute it. Aspiring landscapers can follow several steps to help their landscaping business ideas grow into a thriving company.

Before You Begin…

There are several key considerations for aspiring business owners to be aware of to set their landscaping business up for success. Landscaping has many different subsets, including tree care, landscaping and lawn care, landscape design, and installation. Before launching a new venture, entrepreneurs will want to take a look at what’s around already, what businesses have been successful, and what businesses might compete.

Because landscaping is outside work, the climate can be a big factor. Areas with milder winters may have more work year-round, whereas a business launching in a colder climate may need to consider what services can be offered during winter months, such as snow removal and holiday light installation. Once an aspiring business owner has decided which type of landscaping company they want to start, they’ll want to create a business plan that takes into account marketing and growth. Additionally, entrepreneurs will need to find out what types of licenses or permits are required and any associated fees.

Tips for Starting a Landscaping Business

• Decide what area of landscaping the business will specialize in.
• Pursue necessary education, such as online courses or other certifications.
• Determine what business structure to create, such as a limited liability company (LLC) or sole proprietorship.
• Create a comprehensive landscaping business plan including a budget.
• Consult with professionals in the field and business and marketing experts to help the new landscaping business get off to a strong start.

STEP 1: Write a comprehensive business plan detailing the services your business will offer, the equipment you’ll need, your budget, and your plan for attracting and retaining customers.

A business plan is the first step for launching any type of business. This step requires an entrepreneur to conduct market research and make some personal decisions. Landscaping businesses can become highly specialized, so determining what facet of landscaping the business will encompass is essential. For example, the business owner will want to consider whether their company will be a small lawn care business or focus more on tree care. They’ll also want to determine whether it will be a large-scale operation or will emphasize residential garden design. Once it’s been written, the business plan can unfold more accurately. A robust business plan includes what equipment or tools will be required, cost estimates and budget, and a marketing plan.

If this feels daunting, entrepreneurs will want to seek help. “There are many experts that can help you achieve a successful business plan, such as an accountant, attorney, tax planner, banker, business consultant/mentor, and insurance agent,” advises Joe Raboine, vice president of design at Oldcastle APG , an Atlanta, Georgia–based manufacturer of architectural products. “If you have trouble finding these experts, you can ask around your network to see who others recommend. If they are a good fit, you can discuss your strategy and create an action plan, scheduling check-ins to ensure you stay on the path. When they have a vested interest in your success, it’s critical that they understand your goals.”

STEP 2: Name your landscaping business and decide on a business structure.

One of the more enjoyable parts of creating a business is deciding on the name. Landscaping businesses owners often invoke the natural world, flowers, or other gardening elements when choosing a name, or they may decide to simply use their own name. Business owners will want to keep in mind that it’s wise to include words like “landscaping” or “lawn care” to help potential customers understand what the service offers. It may also be a good idea for the owner to obtain a domain name that matches the business name to build a website to advertise the business.

Another key element for an entrepreneur to determine is the business’s structure, which can be a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, S corporation, or a limited liability company (LLC). Each of these has different requirements in terms of tax law and structure. The IRS website offers important guidelines to help a new business owner determine the structure. Entrepreneurs can also enlist professional help. For example, if the business will be an LLC, the business owner may want to work with one of the best LLC services , such as LegalZoom or Northwest Registered Agent .

STEP 3: Register your business with your state and get a tax identification number.

The majority of small-business owners will need to register their business name with state and local governments. For an LLC, corporation, or partnership, it may also be necessary for the owner to register in any nearby state where the company will regularly conduct business.

It is generally not necessary to register a business on a federal level. However, paying both federal and state taxes is a requirement. Once a business is registered, the owner can obtain a tax ID number, which is necessary to pay federal taxes, hire employees, apply for any business licenses and permits, and open a business bank account.

STEP 4: Apply for and receive the appropriate business licenses required by your municipality.

There are several different types of business licenses , and the type needed is largely dependent on the location of the business and the industry. It’s important for business owners to familiarize themselves with local laws because operating without the appropriate license or permit could lead to fines and penalties—or even having to shut down the business. Generally, the process of getting a business license starts with an application through the local secretary of state business license office.

In some states, landscapers are required to have a contractor’s license, while in others only a general business license is required to start a landscaping business. Sometimes, a license may not be required to do business, but there are always exceptions. It’s important for any business owner to research and obtain the licenses required to allow their business to operate legally in their jurisdiction.

STEP 5: Get adequate insurance coverage for your landscaping business.

Insurance can be a critical investment for a business. Landscapers frequently work with heavy equipment and materials, tree branches, structures on property, drainage, and irrigation. Having landscaping business insurance can help protect a business in case of an accident, stolen or damaged equipment, or property damage or injury while on the job. Researching the best insurance for lawn care businesses , such as NEXT Insurance or Thimble , can help the owner determine exactly what is needed for their individual business.

The exact cost of landscaping insurance can vary depending on the type of coverage a business needs. For many landscapers, general liability insurance is the minimum, with an average cost of $45 per month. However, the total cost will vary depending on the type and amount of coverage a business owner chooses.

STEP 6: Get your business finances in order.

Starting a business requires some monetary investment up front. Depending on the business plan, more expensive items (such as upgraded equipment or vehicles) can be acquired at a future date. Creating and finalizing a budget, possibly with the help of an accountant, will help any business owner see what type of profit they need to succeed.

Business owners will want to consider accounting software or other business management software to help manage daily operations, such as invoicing and budget tracking. For example, the best lawn care scheduling software programs (such as Jobber ) are specifically designed to help with the daily operations of a lawn service business. Opening a business bank account and securing funding as needed are also important parts of setting a business up for success.

STEP 7: Rent or purchase the equipment you need to start your business.

Certain equipment is necessary to start a landscaping business. If the business’s primary goal is to perform landscaping maintenance on established plantings and lawns, the equipment needs may be minimal. If the plan is to launch a commercial landscaping operation, the business may prioritize purchasing larger equipment such as a riding lawn mower. Some equipment, such as rototillers or skid-steer loaders, can be rented on an as-needed basis when a business is first starting out. Many landscapers start their own businesses after having worked in the industry for a number of years and may already have some of the basic equipment. Sara Abbass, owner of Sara Mairead Landscape Design in Northport, New York, advises new business owners that starting out with good-quality equipment can save money in the long run.

“Quality tools are a greater up-front investment, but in the long term are important to complete the work required of the jobsite,” Abbass explains. “Without quality tools, you may need to revisit a jobsite if a client isn’t happy, and that can take up additional hours you could have been meeting with prospective clients.”

STEP 8: Price your services and create a price list to share with potential customers.

Before pricing their services, landscaping business owners will want to research the local cost of landscaping to get an idea of market rates. Networking with other industry professionals can be a great way to stay on top of trends, material costs, and wage trends. Business owners may also want to consider joining an organization such as the National Association of Landscape Professionals to stay abreast of issues that may affect the price of services.

A price list will help potential customers know what to expect before meeting with a landscaper the first time. There are several ways for business owners to price services. A grass-cutting company or lawn and landscape service may price per hour, per visit, per month, or per season. Many of the best landscaping companies offer both recurring and single-visit pricing. For larger jobs, many companies offer free estimates once they’ve visited the site and can estimate the hours and materials required.

STEP 9: Come up with a marketing strategy to help get your business name out in the community.

Marketing is an essential component to drumming up business. Landscapers spend much of their time in the field, but taking the time to have a strong, executable marketing strategy is key to attracting customers. Targeted advertising in the area where the business is hoping to operate can help attract potential customers. In many cases, one of the best website builders for small businesses (like GoDaddy ) can help a business owner build a comprehensive website. Abbass also recommends business owners consider hiring the pros. “Professional photographers can be hired to take photos before and after the installation of projects,” she says. “And a professional marketing firm can effectively communicate to your target market, highlighting your past work and services provided. iPhone photos can only take you so far!”

And finally, business owners won’t want to underestimate the power of word of mouth. “I’ve worked in the lawn care and landscaping industry for many, many years now,” says Jeremy Yamaguchi, founder and former CEO of Lawn Love . “Before I started my current company, I did a ton of freelance landscaping work—a lot of which helped me pay for college. So, something that was invaluable for me when starting my own business was taking advantage of all of those connections I had formed as an individual worker. I reached out to all of the people I had done lawn [and] landscaping work for and told them about the company I was starting. Because I had built such positive relationships with my clients, a large percentage of them became my new business’s first clients, and that resulted in a decent initial customer base that allowed my business to make a consistent profit right away.”

STEP 10: Hire and train employees to help grow your business.

While many landscaping businesses may start with a single owner and operator, one person can only do so much. When it comes to scaling a business, hiring and retaining employees is a logical next step. With more people, more jobs can be completed. However, finding the right employees and training them may require a business owner to conduct some industry outreach.

When it comes to finding new hires, Jennifer Nichols, owner of GreenWeaver Landscapes in Lenni, Pennsylvania, supports and participates in industry events and organizations aimed at attracting potential employers to landscaping. “Although wages and benefits have been increasing, the labor market is still very tight,” Nichols says. “So we have been working with Seed Your Future , the movement to promote horticulture and inspire people to pursue careers working with plants. We participate in Green Career Week, promoting green jobs on social media in hopes of attracting more people to the industry.”

From budget to business licenses and arborists to architects, there are a huge number of variables would-be owners will need to consider when hoping to establish a successful landscaping business. Well-researched decisions about the industry will go a long way toward ensuring the success of a business. Following these steps will help set a new business owner on the way to establishing a thriving landscaping business that is both sustainable and profitable, offering any entrepreneur the chance at a long and fruitful career.

How To Create A Landscaping Business Plan

For those who love hard work, spending time outside, and being your own boss, starting a landscaping business may be a great fit.

But where do you start?

This guide will show you how to write a landscaping business plan, and address other important factors to consider when starting a landscaping business.

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Plan for success.

Having a business plan is important for several reasons. It serves as your guide for everything you need to run a profitable landscaping business .

Business plans help you avoid costly mistakes by forcing you to go over all the tough aspects of starting a business, not just the fun ones.

Three big reasons why landscaping businesses fail

A landscaping business isn’t guaranteed success. In fact, 20% of small businesses fail within their first year.

Here are some of the reasons why landscaping businesses don’t make it.

1. Too much overhead or underestimating jobs

Operational inefficiencies can bog down business. This could be too much overhead, such as buying a lot of equipment, but not having enough jobs to keep it in use.

Bad estimates also are frequent issues for landscapers. Underpricing a job could win you work, but you also want to make enough money to stay in business. On the other hand, overpricing a job could result in lost work. It’s a fine line to straddle.

Pro tip: Looking at past job hours and expenses using a landscaping time tracker can help you prepare better estimates.

Schedule and track landscaping jobs

Automated GPS time and location tracking

2. Not enough customers

The failure to get repeat customers leads many businesses to sputter out. Consistent jobs pay the bills and are a reliable source of income.

Without it, owners spend too much of their time working to find new customers. This is a lot more expensive than keeping the current ones happy.

3. Cash flow

Cash flow problems plague businesses that are growing fast. If you need more equipment to get more jobs done, you’ll need more cash to make that happen and still be able to pay your team.

Those are the most common problems that landscaping business owners run into.

Now let’s see how to write a great plan so you can avoid these pitfalls.

Writing your landscaping business plan: Step-by-step

A business plan is made up of a common set of sections that can vary in length. The more you add, the better suited you’ll be for the ups and downs that come with running a company.

The following sections are the most important, and could be considered the minimum to include in your landscaping business plan.

1. Executive Summary

This is the first thing someone will read in your business plan. It describes what you want to do and why you will be successful in doing it.

Keep this simple but powerful. If you are looking for money from a bank or other investors, this summary will set the stage for them to trust in your plan.

2. Company Description

This includes your mission statement, history, and an overview of team members.

This mission statement is an easy-to-read message that lets people know why your business exists.

For example “To grow and maintain naturally healthy lawns and gardens,” may be a mission statement for a landscaping company. Overall, keep it simple.

In your company history, describe how long you’ve been around, what services you offer, and what reputation you already have as a landscaper.

The last part of this section is an overview of team members. You’ll want to explain who will be part of the company, why they are skilled, and how they will contribute to the success of the business.

3. Market and Competitor Analysis

This is your chance to establish the status of the landscaping market in your area, and determine where you can stand out.

If there are already 30 tree removal companies in your area, you may not want to focus on that specific service.

On the other hand, you may find that many of those companies have bad reviews, and there is a need for higher quality work to be done.

This is all part of your analysis of the market, so you can find out where there is the greatest need and set up your services to meet that need.

Also consider how services are being priced so you don’t stand out for charging too much. See if your area has a need for more high-end work like gardening, or if there are more potential customers out there that just need lawn services.

Your objective here is to find out where you best can position your company to be successful.

If you’re looking for an easy way to research and document the competition, you can build a simple competitor analysis project board using Hubstaff Tasks simple project management tool .

Manage landscaping projects better

Assign tasks, add due dates, comments, and more

4. Services and Product

This section details the services you’re going to offer and details about them. Here’s what you’ll want to:

• Explain your services in detail
• Explain your pricing model
• Talk about which type of customer will use these services
• Describe how much time it takes to complete services
• Describe what makes your offering unique

5. Marketing Strategy

When you “open the doors” to your new landscaping business, customers won’t be able to find you if they’ve never heard of you. A marketing plan will put you in a position to get noticed.

Talk about the brand you are creating. Think about why it will be special. Describe what it will look like, display any logos or designs, and show the slogans or phrases you’ll use as a brand.

Your marketing plan should include, at minimum, how you plan to use social media, customer referrals, online ratings, in-person events like lawn and garden shows, and direct mail .

6. Financial Plan

The way you spend and manage money is one of the most important aspects of survival and growth as a business. Your financial plan needs to consider the following:

• Startup costs, or the amount of money you need to operate. You’ll need equipment like shovels and lawnmowers, but you also need cash for gasoline, car payments, or fertilizers.
• Employee wages should be broken down by position and skill level. This will keep you on budget when you start hiring.
• Funding sources are the places where you’re going to get the money needed to start. This could be personal savings, friends and family, bank loans, credit cards, or investors.
• Sales projections should be drafted to predict how much money you will spend and earn for at least the first three years of operation. This is an educated guess based upon all the other research you’ve done to build this plan. This should be an honest look at the earning potential of your company.

Drafting your business plan

Creating a landscaping business plan is a vital part of starting a landscaping business. Those who prepare and plan will stand a better chance of profiting and growing their operation for many years to come.

It can feel tedious going through each of the steps of this plan. Keep in mind the reasons why you wanted to start this business as you build your plan.

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How to Start a Landscaping Business: 10 Key Steps

As long as there are homes with yards and gardens, there will be a need for landscapers. Landscaping businesses are relatively future-proof, making them a good choice for entrepreneurs. Yet, as with any new business, there are challenges. Having a good plan of attack helps.

If you’re interested in starting your own landscaping business, this article outlines 10 steps to take to get your company underway.

You’ll learn why landscaping is so appealing as a business venture. There is a ton of variety in the profession, as well. With a little direction, you can begin your journey with our actionable tips, even if you’re not fully up and running yet.

Benefits of Starting a Landscaping Business

Landscaping as an industry is growing steadily. Between 2017 and 2022, the field grew at an average rate of  4.2% per year . That’s pretty remarkable, considering how the pandemic affected other industries.

Landscaping is an attractive profession for many reasons:

• The profession has a low barrier to entry
• You can be your own boss with more flexibility
• You can work outdoors in nature
• It’s healthier than sitting at a desk
• Different jobs bring different tasks and challenges
• Landscaping can be a great creative outlet
• You may collaborate with other interesting professionals
• Income is steady, with lots of repeat business
• Your revenue is potentially uncapped

Property owners are realizing the benefits of hiring a service to maintain their yards. They can come home from a hard day’s work to find the lawn manicured, the hedges trimmed, and the flower beds neatly mulched. 

With the advent of social media, these homeowners also expect a certain level of quality. They are inspired by beautiful gardens they see on YouTube or Instagram, then they want the same look for their own homes.

As the demand has grown, the number of working landscapers has increased, too. This makes the market more competitive. It forces companies to produce exceptional results to stay ahead of the competition.

There are many different types of successful landscaping businesses. Some of the services they provide include:

• Lawn mowing and edging
• Flower bed planting and care
• Tree pruning and hedge trimming
• Fish pond installation
• Mulching and weed control
• Yard and leaf cleanup
• Irrigation system maintenance
• Fertilizing, dethatching, and overseeding
• Sod lawn installation
• Seasonal garden preparation
• Tree planting and tree/stump removal
• Xeriscaping and drought-friendly planting
• Sustainable landscaping solutions
• Winter snow and ice removal
• Landscaping and hardscaping consultation

You can be a generalist and offer all or most of these services if you live in an area with few professional landscapers. If you live in a more densely populated area, you can hone in on a specialty. Specialization tends to be more profitable in a competitive environment.

10 Key Steps to Start Your Landscaping Business

If you know you’re ready to start your own landscaping business, it’s best to tackle it methodically. Follow the steps below to make sure you have everything covered.

1. Decide on Your Specialty and Target Customer

These two business elements are closely intertwined. What kinds of landscaping jobs do you enjoy most? Is there a need for that in your area?

For instance, in places like Florida and Southern California, some landscapers only deal with palm trees. There is a demand for this work, especially from affluent property owners. But clearly, this wouldn’t fly further north. Winterizing lawns and beds might do really well, though. You need to match the demand for your services with your skills and interests.

When you’ve nailed your services down, create a profile for a hypothetical perfect customer. Where do they live? How much do they spend on landscaping services? Give them a name and write down all their details. Let that profile inform your services and marketing.

2. Study the Competition and Set a Pricing Schedule

No matter where you are, you likely have at least a few competitors. Do a little research on their services and pricing compared to your ideal structure. If you price services much higher, customers may go elsewhere. Too low, and you won’t turn a profit. It’s a fine balance.

Your pricing should be determined by multiple factors:

• Your landscaping niche
• Demand for landscapers in your area
• Pricing for the competition
• Seasonal fluctuations

You’ll need to be competitive with other landscaping companies. But at the end of the day, you still need to make a profit.

You’ll also need to calculate your monthly expenses (overhead) like:

• Staff payroll
• Loan payments
• Rental equipment

To do more than break even, you want to charge enough to cover them and still have money left to pay yourself.

FROM ONE OF OUR PARTNERS:   How to Price Landscaping Jobs

3. Decide on a Business Structure

How will your business be structured? Will you be a sole proprietor or hire helpers? Will they be employees or 1099 independent contractors?

You may want to form an  LLC or S-corp  to protect yourself and receive certain tax advantages. At this point, it’s smart to invest some money in a certified public accountant consultation to see which one is best for you.

Then, file for whichever type of incorporation you decide on.

4. Write a Business Plan for Your Company

Once you get the tasks above checked off, you can start creating an official business plan. Your plan will be your company’s roadmap for the next year or two. It will also be necessary if you intend to apply for any business financing.

A business plan  includes the following components:

• An overview, called the Executive Summary
• Description of structure and employees
• Market analysis and demand for services
• Marketing strategy to attract clients
• Services offered and prices
• Financial projections by month, quarter, or year

Your financial projections are your best estimates for income, growth, and what you need to break even. Ideally, you want to do more than just break even, though. You need to show you can make a profit.

FROM ONE OF OUR PARTNERS:  Creating Your Own Landscaping Business Plan

5. Obtain any Business Licenses or Permits Required

Proper licensure is critical to operating your landscaping business. It lends you credibility, but it’s also legally required in many areas.

Every state and municipality has different requirements for credentialing. Check with your area to see what’s required and get the proper documentation. 

Permitting requirements can also vary depending on the kind of work you’re doing. Things like irrigation systems or lighting installation may require permits, while simple lawn mowing does not. You’ll still need to check your local regulations.

6. Open a Bank Account and Apply for Any Necessary Financing

You want a business account that’s separate from your personal bank account. Be prepared to show your articles of incorporation to open a business account at some banks.

If you need financing for your venture, it’s smart to open your account where you have the best chance of getting approved. We use the word “bank” here loosely. Don’t forget to check out credit unions as well. Both will want to see your business plan before offering you a loan, line of credit, or business credit cards.

7. Purchase Equipment and Vehicles

Now, it’s time to invest in the equipment and trucks you need to conduct business. You’ll likely need lawnmowers, edgers, and protective equipment. You may also need certain items related to your specialty, like pruning shears or drop spreaders.

How many vehicles will you need? You’ll need transportation that can hold all your gear and stand up to dirt, water, and other landscaping abuse.

8. Buy Landscaping Business Insurance

You cannot operate your landscaping truck or van under your personal insurance policy, even if you use your own vehicle. You must have a commercial insurance policy.

Your company should also have the following insurance plans:

• Property insurance in case of loss, theft, or damage to equipment
• Workers' compensation, if required by your state for employees
• Cyber insurance, if you intend to take online payments from clients
• General liability insurance in case of a non-worker accident or injury

9. Hire and Train Staff as Needed

If you plan to take on workers, you’ll need to advertise for them, screen them, and do the hiring.

Be sure to train them on any equipment they’re unfamiliar with. Also, go over safety, customer service and etiquette expectations. You want stellar client reviews for things like punctuality, cleanliness, and manners.

10. Start Marketing Your Services

The final thing you need to do is  bring in customers through marketing . Marketing can be informal, like networking with friends and neighbors about your new business.

Marketing can also entail:

• Creating a professional website
• Setting up social media accounts
• Paying for client leads through a service
• Joining groups like the local chamber of commerce

The idea is to balance keeping current customers happy with bringing in new clients.

FROM ONE OF OUR PARTNERS:  How to Make an Invoice for Landscaping Jobs (with Free Template)

Startup Tasks You can do Today to get Your Landscaping Business off the Ground

If you use the list above, you’ll be able to get your business off the ground sooner and with fewer problems. Here are a few final tips as you get started:

• Don’t forget to network with other home service providers for business. Professionals like contractors and pool specialists can refer you to clients. Property management companies are another great source of customers.
• When you build your website, use search engine optimization (SEO) to help it rank higher in online searches. This is simply including keywords people use when looking for landscapers. Also, include your city, county, and some area landmarks for local SEO.
• One of the best ways to connect with clients on social media is to join your town’s Facebook group page. You can advertise for free just by interacting with local residents. There will always be people with landscaping questions you can answer. You don’t even have to be officially in business to start networking there.
• If buying some equipment is too costly at first, consider renting it. This gives you the added advantage of trying out different models to see which ones are best for your needs.
• Always think about where you want your business to be in a year or two. Are there services you cannot provide right now but would like to? Figure out how to invest in the required equipment or training you need. The actions you take now will pay off in your profits in the future.

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How to start a landscaping business

Looking to start a landscaping business but don’t know how? Here are 13 steps to help get your business up and running.

Why start a landscaping business?

If you enjoy gardening and spending time outdoors, you may have considered working as a landscaper. Once you’ve built up enough experience, you may be ready to start your own landscaping business. It’s important to consider both the benefits and disadvantages of starting a landscaping company to see if it's right for you.

Owning a landscaping business has plenty of benefits. As the entrepreneur of this new business, you can be your own boss. You can set your working hours and choose your clients. Plus you have control of your finances and can set the prices you want to charge for your services. The freedom to work outdoors is one of the biggest benefits, with an opportunity to shape the environment you live and work in. The earning potential of landscaping businesses can be good, though this depends on the clients you have, where you are based, and the types of services you provide. High-quality landscaping jobs may pay you more.

There are also disadvantages to being a landscaping business owner. It is hard work and involves physical labor. Your business can be affected by inclement weather, and in some states, there could be slow seasons in areas with a lot of snow. Managing a business can be stressful, but the right tools can help you stay on top of your cash flow and get paid faster.

Find out about using Xero to stay on top of your cash flow and get paid .

Types of landscaping businesses

There are many types of landscaping businesses, but some are highly specialized, and you need to ensure you have the right certifications, skills and experience to offer a high-quality service.

The four most common types of businesses are:

• General landscaping: This can be commercial or residential, and involves arranging plants, soil, and organic materials in a garden or open space. A permit may be needed in some states. This could include things like tree trimming, leaf removal, and hedging.
• Interior landscaping: These services are usually provided to large offices, shopping malls, government buildings, and large indoor public spaces. This type of landscaping involves planting and maintaining indoor gardens.
• Gardening and groundskeeping: This is one of the more common services and involves caring for gardens in general. Tasks include lawn mowing, fertilizing, weeding, and sod and lawn installation. It can be commercial or residential. A lawn care business would fall into this category.
• Landscaping design and architecture: This is the most technical type of service, and you usually need a college degree in a related field. Projects include the design of large public spaces such as a college campus or an apartment complex. Knowledge of design software is essential, and projects often involve working with professionals such as architects.

13 steps to starting a landscaping business

After you have chosen the type of landscaping you want your business to provide, you are ready to formalize your business. Here are 13 steps for setting up your landscaping business. If this is the first time you are creating a business, you can read the guide to how to start a business for even more tips.

1. Form your business’s legal structure

You will need to choose a business structure. The three structures below are the most common for landscaping businesses.

• Sole proprietorship: This is a business operated by a single person. It’s the easiest structure, as all the profits and losses are received by the owner and reported on their personal income tax return. However, this structure doesn’t offer legal protection, and the owner’s personal assets may be at risk if they are sued or if anything goes wrong.
• S Corporation: This corporate legal structure has special tax characteristics and is commonly used by landscaping companies. The name comes from the IRS classification of this type of business. In an S Corp, the owners are also employees, and unlike a traditional C Corporation, it helps businesses avoid double taxation.
• Limited liability company: An LLC is often chosen because it provides some legal protection for the owners, and can be flexible for both ownership and taxation. Some who have an LLC file the paperwork to be an S Corporation for tax reasons. It is important to note that the liability protection isn’t complete, and business owners can still be held liable in some instances. The LLC business structure is based on a state statute rather than a federal one. Check the requirements of your local government or state for further information.

2. Register for a business license and needed permits

Registering your business and getting a business license is critical for paying taxes, opening a business bank account, and applying for loans.

In most cases, you’ll be required to register your business with your state. You may also need to register a DBA (doing business as) if using a trade or brand name.

Information required for a business license usually includes:

• business name
• business location
• ownership, management structure, or directors

Some states also require permits or industry-specific licenses. You can check with your state’s secretary of state office or similar government office to find out which permits you need. Some common permits and industry licenses include:

• landscaping license
• permit for handling pesticides or fertilizers
• contractor license surety bond

3. Apply for an EIN

Before you can pay sales or payroll taxes, you’ll need to apply for an EIN (employer identification number). You can apply for an EIN online or by mail.

4. Register for taxes

You may need to register to pay sales tax (state and local) and payroll taxes (when you have payroll). It’s recommended you consult a tax advisor about your business plan and do research on what the requirements are in your state before registering.

5. Establish a business bank account

Keep your personal finances separate and open a business bank account. This is critical if you’ve formed an entity for your business and, even for sole proprietors, it makes it easier to do your taxes and create financial reports. To open an account, you will need your EIN. Many banks do allow sole proprietors to use their social security number to open a bank account. Banks vary in their services, but it is handy to have a credit card and a checking account. Take a look at your options and choose the best one for your needs.

6. Develop your business plan

Writing a business plan is key to helping you focus and guide you through the setup of your new landscaping business. It will help you develop and set goals and create your vision for the future. It can be essential for getting funding or loans. You can use this business plan template .

Your business plan should consider each of the following areas:

• Executive summary: Brief overview of your plan.
• Company overview: An overview of your company, vision, mission, owners.
• Industry analysis: Overview of the industry, government regulations, details of your services, and potential risks.
• Customer analysis: Your likely target customer.
• Competitive analysis: Who your key competitors are.
• Marketing plan: How and where you want to advertise.
• Operations plan: Procurement, office location, key asset management.
• Management team: This is your leadership team.
• Financial plan: How you will finance your business and startup. This ideally includes information for the next three years.
• Insurance plan: You’ll need to determine what is the best insurance coverage for your business.

7. Determine your services

Check the offerings of competitors in your area and consider your strengths and interests.

The two most common categories are landscaping services and lawn care services, including maintenance. You may offer a mix of both or one type of service.

Landscaping could include projects such as patio and fence installation (which may need a construction license), sod installation, or creating flower beds. It is wide-ranging, so you could choose to niche in one or two specific services, depending on if you prefer residential or commercial clients.

Lawn care company recurring maintenance services offer a diverse range of projects. These could include some of the following:

• lawn mowing
• planting and plant care
• applying fertilizer or pesticides
• lawn aeration

When deciding on your services, consider your target market and their likely needs. To reduce your startup costs, you could consider offering a limited range of services until you have become more experienced and established.

8. Determine what equipment you need

Once you have decided on your services, you can plan what landscaping equipment you will need to provide your services. Some essential equipment will include:

• leaf blower
• fertilizing equipment
• safety equipment, for example, ear protection
• gardening gloves

If your startup fund is small, consider renting some of the more expensive items before you invest in buying them. This will give you time to explore exactly what you need and your favorite brands.

Another important consideration is the vehicle you use. Common types of vehicles for landscaping businesses are pickup trucks, vans, and utility trailers. One of these is essential for your business. You will have to choose whether to rent or buy your vehicle. Your vehicle is also an advertising opportunity. You can put signage with your company branding and contact details on the vehicle..

9. Establish your target market

Knowing who your potential customers are is an important part of your business planning. In landscaping. You can choose either commercial or residential clients or a mix of both.

Commercial work often involves working with fewer clients in large spaces. You can charge more, and they have a budget. But it can be difficult for a new landscaping business to break into commercial work unless you have good industry contacts. You are likely to need to hire employees.

Residential work may offer a better initial entry point and opportunities for custom work. You’ll need more customers, but you can offer specialized services to make yours a more premium service.

Who you choose to work with will depend on your interests, your capabilities, and your desired margins.

Understanding what your competitors offer can also help you define your target market. By differentiating your service and niching, you’ll be better able to narrow down your preferred clientele. This will help you stand out from your competitors, which will help with marketing.

10. Set your prices

Setting your prices is a key part of your business plan. Take a look at what other local successful landscaping businesses are charging and how they price their services.

There are three main ways to price your services:

• hourly rate
• per square foot

When setting your prices, you’ll need to factor in a range of considerations. These include your overhead costs (insurance, equipment), direct costs (mulch, fertilizer), and job-specific features such as property size, location, and condition.

Be prepared to offer an initial estimate for a client, followed by a final invoice upon completion. Consider invoicing software if you plan to have an automated system and want to accept credit card payments online.

11. Build your brand

Building a brand is an important part of establishing your business identity. Branding can help you stand out from similar businesses and become known in your community. Activities to build your brand include:

• Choose a business name that is memorable and unique.
• Define your unique selling proposition (USP). How will you stand out from your competitors?
• Get a logo designed.
• Create your brand guide. Include your colors, fonts, tone, values, and mission statement.
• Get a website and have it professionally designed.

12. Understand insurance requirements

Business insurance is an important expense to protect you from unexpected costs of running your business. Events such as natural disasters, accidents, and lawsuits could wipe you out without the right insurance.

Each state has different insurance requirements. It is a good idea to find a reputable licensed agent to help you assess your risks and your needs. Shop around to find one that suits you.

These are some common types of insurance:

• General liability insurance: This is a key insurance and covers financial loss for a variety of reasons, including property damage, bodily injury, and defending lawsuits.
• Worker’s compensation: If you have employees, this is required in most states and provides assistance to workers injured while working.
• Commercial auto insurance: Provides protection for your work vehicles.
• Contractor’s tools and equipment insurance: Provides protection to repair or replace damaged tools or equipment.
• Equipment breakdown insurance: This provides cover to repair or replace equipment that is broken down or damaged
• Business owner’s insurance: This is an insurance plan that covers a combination of insurance needs for business owners. These plans vary but can usually be tailored.

13. Market your small business

Marketing your landscaping business is an essential part of attracting new customers. There are a lot of different ways to do marketing without having to spend a lot of money.

Here are a few common, cost-effective ways to market a small business:

• Business cards: Give them to clients and people thinking about your services.
• Referrals: Ask clients or people you know for referrals. Word of mouth matters a lot.
• Testimonials and reviews: Ask past clients for a testimonial and add it to your website and social media.
• Establish a Google Business Profile: It’s free and easy to establish. You can ask customers to rate your services.
• Social media: Choose one or two of your favorite platforms. Create a business page on Facebook. You can showcase examples of your work.
• Advertising: You can do this in local publications and websites.

Landscaping is a hard but rewarding business. By following these steps, you can get your landscaping company off the ground.

Xero does not provide accounting, tax, business or legal advice. This guide has been provided for information purposes only. You should consult your own professional advisors for advice directly relating to your business or before taking action in relation to any of the content provided.

Related reading

Small business ideas.

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How to start a landscaping business

If you’ve been thinking about starting a landscaping business or mowing company, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a starter guide to get your business off the ground.

Here’s what we’re going to cover in this guide:

• Creating a landscaping business plan
• Basic equipment required for a landscaping, gardening, or mowing business
• Figuring out the cost of running a landscaping business
• Starting a landscaping business legally, with state registration, and landscaping licensure (if you need it!)
• Getting insurance for your landscaping company
• Hiring employees for your lawn care business
• Marketing your landscaping business in your community

Okay! Let’s dive in.

1. First, create a landscaping business plan.

Figure out your major goals and objectives..

Always start with a plan. When you’re getting your business off the ground, it’s essential to figure out your primary goals and objectives—and how you’ll get there. And, although it might seem daunting to write up a landscaping business plan, in reality, it just means answering a bunch of common-sense questions.

Here are some questions you’ll need to answer first.

Why are you starting a landscaping business?

Before you invest significant money and resources into your new business, you’ll need to take a good look at why you’re starting your own landscaping business in the first place. Getting a business going can be stressful, and if you’re not clear why you’re in the game, it can be easy to quit when the going gets tough.

So, to avoid a premature exit, take a second right now to write down why you want to start a business. The reasons could range from “Because I’ve always wanted to be my own boss” to “Because I want to work outdoors” to pragmatic considerations, such as “I’m starting this business because I need flexibility for my kids.”

If a reason gets you motivated, it counts. (And if you aren’t particularly motivated by any of your reasons, well—it’s better to know that now.)

After you’ve defined the “why,” you’ll need to define practical expectations for your landscaping business. Your answers to the following questions will dictate a lot about how you build and advertise your company:

• Is your landscaping business intended to provide supplemental part-time income? Or are you hoping to make a full-time income?
• Do you plan to stay a one-person business, or would you like to grow your business to include a team?
• When will you work on this business (and what will you give up to make that time available)?

It can be challenging to work through these questions, but now is the time to figure out precisely what kind of business you’re trying to build. Without a vision, you won’t know what steps to take—or even what success looks like when you achieve it. So take the time now to read 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Start a Business and get your big picture in place for the long haul. It’s worth it.

What kind of landscaping services will you provide?

This is an important question. There are many kinds of landscaping services—from mowing and yard maintenance all the way to high-end corporate landscape design—and you’ll need to know exactly what it is that you’ll offer so you can market yourself effectively to prospective customers. To do that, you’ll need to consider three major factors:

1. Your landscaping experience

First, consider what you’re already capable of doing. If you already have a lot of landscaping experience, a landscaping degree, or a landscaping license, you can consider taking on more involved landscaping design jobs.

But if you’re a newcomer to the landscaping industry—and your main skill is cutting a perfect lawn—you definitely don’t want to initially advertise more services than you can handle.

2. The landscaping market in your area

Take a look at your competition by doing a Google search to see who’s already doing landscaping or yard maintenance in your area. What services are they offering? What are their pricing structures? And—most importantly—how could you design your business to fill a gap in the local marketplace?

For example, suppose you’ve got a lot of landscape design experience, but there’s a shortage of mowing services in your area. In that case, you might give your business a head start on cash flow by selling your yard maintenance services first, then branching out into design as your reputation grows.

3. Your target customers

Once you have a sense of what landscaping services you’d like to offer, you should solidify which customers you’re going to target (at least in the beginning).

Will you market your services to suburban homeowners? Or do you hope to pick up multi-property contracts with corporate landlords? (Whichever you choose, now is an excellent time to start putting together a list of potential clients.)

Write down exactly who you’re after—and who you’re not after. It’ll make a big difference.

How much will you charge for landscaping services?

The best way to figure out what you should charge for your services is to do the research—figure out what other landscaping companies are charging for similar services in your area. Then think carefully about your launch pricing. While you may want to offer lower prices to get your business off the ground, you don’t want to underprice yourself either—if your prices are too low, potential customers might be concerned that you don’t do quality work.

Once you’ve figured out a menu of services and prices, it’s a good idea to get a second opinion. If you have a friend or family member who currently hires a landscaper and is in the demographic you’re trying to reach, show them your cost structure and ask for feedback.

2. Next, plan your landscaping equipment needs

Landscaping is an industry that requires a lot of specialized equipment, and you’ll want to have a clear idea of what tools you’ll need to make your business launch a success. What equipment will you need to purchase to serve your first client? Make a list of your must-haves (as well as a wish list).

Here are the essential pieces of equipment needed to start a landscaping or lawn care company. (Make sure to budget for quality, too. It’s important.)

1. A truck and a trailer: You’ll need transportation to and from your worksite. If you don’t already have access to a heavy-duty truck, you’ll need to set aside money to purchase one.

2. A riding lawnmower: For maximum efficiency, you’ll want a commercial, zero-turn model.

3. A push mower: A standard push mower makes for a great tool for narrow places where a riding lawn mower cannot reach.

4. A set of good quality landscaping tools: Think hoses, shovels, and other miscellaneous tools you’ll need on the job.

5. A lawn trimmer: Also known as a weed whacker, weed trimmer, string trimmer, or line trimmer, this is a standard landscaping tool you’ll need.

6. Lawn edger: Especially important for commercial clients.

7. A leaf blower: A landscaping business standard, for sure. And not just in autumn, as they come in handy for removing grass clippings in walkways.

8. Lawn spreader: Also called a lawn seeder , this wheelbarrow-like item spreads seeds and fertilizer throughout a lawn.

9. Lawn sprayer: A much-needed tool to provide fertilizer and other liquid landscape-care additives.

10. Safety equipment: Equipment like noise-cancelling headphones, gloves, steel-toed boots, and safety goggles.

After adjusting this list to fit your needs, be sure to look up price ranges for every piece of equipment you included. You can start your research at national equipment vendors like Site One and Horizon Online , but don’t forget to call your local landscaping supply stores. You’ll want to know them anyway, and it’s not too early to start forming a relationship. (Be sure to support your local landscaping supply with your dollars as much as you can, too. They’ll have your back in a pinch, and you need them to stay in business.)

3. Get your finances in order.

Now, let’s crunch the numbers. It’s time to talk about what it will cost to get your landscaping business off the ground.

How much does it cost to start a landscaping business?

Anywhere from a few hundred dollars to $20,000 or more, depending on what resources you already have. But the real question here is actually what it will cost you to start your landscaping business. And the answer depends a lot on where you are, what your experience level is, and—again—what equipment you already have at your disposal.

To figure out your startup costs, you’ll need the list of equipment—as well as your best estimate of what it will cost to purchase all of it.

Then, you’ll need to add in the following costs:

1. Business insurance

You’re going to need general liability coverage as well as a few other common business policies. (We’ll discuss this in-depth later, but in the meantime, you can get a quick quote on what you might pay for landscaping business insurance .)

2. Incorporation & licensure fees

If you’re starting a brand-new business, you’ll likely need to pay a few fees to make things official with the state. (Also, check to see if your state requires a license to operate a landscaping business. If it does, you’ll need to budget for those costs, too.)

3. Technology, website, and software costs

If you don’t have a computer to use for your business, you’ll need to get one. You’ll also need to plan on the costs of a website and any software you’ll use to manage your business (such as QuickBooks or YardBook ).

4. Any other costs you can think of

Be as thorough as possible in imagining what you might spend to start your business. Do you plan to get custom-made t-shirts? Do you want to set aside $500 to advertise online? Make sure all of those costs make it into your budget.

Now that you have a projected cost, it’s time to get serious about securing funds. Some people start businesses with their own money (or with a loan from friends or family), but you can also consider getting a small business loan guaranteed by the Small Business Administration ( find information about small business loans here ) or even a non-SBA loan from a local bank.

Whatever you decide, make sure your business plan accounts for the time it will take to get your funds in order and make any necessary purchases. (It’s pretty hard to mow lawns without a lawnmower.)

4. Next, get your paperwork in order

Now that you’ve made some high-level decisions and have a plan in place, it’s time to finalize your business name, file your paperwork, and make things official. Let’s go through that process step by step.

Pick a name for your landscaping business

You might have been considering various names for your business all along, but now’s the time to look closely at your choices and make a strategic decision about what you’ll call your new landscaping company. Here are a few guidelines to consider:

Pick a business name that’s clear about what you offer

If you run a mowing company, make sure that’s clear in the name you choose. You might even consider including the name of the service you provide, so there’s no doubt about what you do. Joey’s Mowing Service is crystal clear. Joey’s Short Cuts is not (although it wouldn’t be a bad name for a barbershop).

Putting the name of the service into your business name also has another benefit: When potential customers search online for landscaping services, they’ll have a better chance of finding your business.

Pick a name that appeals to your target market

Think about what kind of customer you’re trying to attract and name your business accordingly. Joey Scissorhands Mowing Service might make a suburban homeowner laugh—but it probably won’t impress a commercial client.

Pick a name that’s available

To make sure your business name is available, ask yourself these three questions:

1. Is it available in your area?

If you’re thinking about calling your business Joey’s Mowing Service , make sure to check the local area to be sure there aren’t any other landscaping businesses with a similar name. You definitely don’t want to be mistaken for Joe’s Mowing Service around the corner.

2. Is it available online?

Nearly every business has a website these days, and you’ll want to have one, too. That way, you show up in internet searches. Use a site like namecheap.com to see what URLs are available—and don’t be surprised (or discouraged) if joeysmowingservice.com isn’t available. You can always pick a different top level domain (like .net or .us) or add a location to find an available URL. Think: joeysmowingservice.net or joeysmowingLA.com .

3. Is it officially available?

Finally, check the official record to make sure no one else in your state has claimed your name yet. (Every state’s website is a little different, but you should be able to find your state’s online name check tool by Googling “business name check” + state name. )

Register your landscaping business with your state

Now that you’ve picked a name, you’re ready to make things official by registering your business name with your state and local governments. The process for registration varies by state, so you’ll need to look at your Secretary of State’s website to see what you’ll need to do for your landscaping business.

Another option: Use a service like LegalZoom , which charges a fee to do all the legal work of incorporation automatically.

Do you need a gardening license or landscape license?

In some states, you’ll need a landscaping license (sometimes called a gardening license) to operate your business legally ( check to see what your state requirements are here ). Each state’s licensure process is a little different, but here’s a quick overview of how to get a license in a few example states:

How to obtain a landscaping business license

In California, you’ll need to get experience (usually 4 years) and take some tests before you get your C-27 Landscaping Contractor license. You’ll also need to take a test to get your Maintenance Gardener Pest Control Certification. (It’s important to know, too, that you may not need any landscaping license if your business only specializes in minor maintenance or mowing lawns. Be sure to check local laws to see what applies to you.)

On the other hand, if you live in Georgia, you only need a state landscaping license if you’re going to apply general-use or restricted-use pesticides. The Georgia Department of Agriculture grants that license, and while you’ll need to take an exam to get it, it’s good for five years.

Many other states operate like Georgia, too. For example, Connecticut, Kentucky, Iowa, Kansas, and Illinois are all states that don’t require landscaping licenses unless you’re going to apply pesticides. (And, if you need to use pesticides, they all require exams before they license you—to be sure you know what you’re doing!)

For more information on each state’s rules, check out this handy article on landscaping licensure requirements .

5. Landscaping insurance (Yes, your business needs to be insured!)

Even if your landscaping venture is starting small, you still need to protect yourself and your business with the right business insurance. Without the right policy, you could be one accident away from an expensive liability lawsuit (which, frankly, could shut a small business down).

Here’s the landscaping insurance you need for your business

Here are a few of the policies you’ll likely need for your landscaping business (tap any of the titles to get more details about each coverage):

General Liability Insurance

This coverage protects you and your landscaping business if someone makes a legal claim against you for property damage or bodily injury. (Imagine you ran your mower into the side of someone’s $300,000 sports car. That’s what liability coverage is for—and yes, you need it.)

Business Property

Business property coverage is actually two coverages sold as one: business property insurance covers your office building, if you own it, while business personal property insurance covers the items owned by your business. (If you don’t own a building, you can just purchase business personal property insurance.)

Business Owner’s Policy

This is actually a bundle of coverages, and includes general liability insurance, business interruption coverage , and property insurance. It’s a one-stop shop for most of the coverages you’ll need for your landscaping business.

Workers’ Compensation Coverage

If you hire anyone to help you with your landscaping business, there’s a very good chance you’re legally required to purchase workers’ comp insurance. (If you don’t, there are usually severe financial penalties. Not to mention potential lawsuits.)

Equipment Breakdown Coverage

You can’t operate your landscaping business without your equipment, so this coverage can really help you out in the case of an unexpected breakdown. It’ll pay out for a repair or a replacement if your equipment fails for a covered reason.

6. Get your hiring documents together

Now we need to talk about hiring. First off, know that you might be able to start your company with just one employee—you. But if you think you’ll need a team right away, you’ll need to take some time to prepare for the landscaping business hiring process . To get you started, here’s a quick checklist of to-dos:

• Get your Employer Identification Number (often shortened to EIN).
• If your state and city require it, get your local tax ID numbers ( learn more about this here ).
• Figure out how you plan to hire—will you hire independent contractors or employees?
• Print out some W-4 forms (for employees) or W-9 forms (for independent contractors)—everyone you hire will need to fill one of these forms out.
• If you plan to hire any full-time or part-time employees, get acquainted with this Forms for New Employees list from the U.S. Department of Labor.
• Google your state + “hiring forms” to find out which additional forms your state requires—each state has its own set of rules. (Starting a landscaping company in California? We’ve put everything together for you in How to Hire Your First Employee in California .)

One more thing: If you plan on hiring employees to help you run your business, there’s a good chance you’ll need workers’ comp to stay legal. Get a 60-second rate estimate at our workers’ comp calculator here . (Don’t procrastinate, either. In most states, you’ll need workers’ comp on the day that your first employee starts.)

7. Make a marketing plan for your landscaping business

It’s time to get some customers. Finally! To do that efficiently, you need to consider who you’re trying to attract (remember your business plan?) and then figure out the best way to reach them. This is one of the most crucial steps in starting a landscaping company (and then staying in business!). Here are some possibilities.

How to market your landscaping business

Personal connections.

This is one of the best ways to get started. When you’re ready to start taking work, put the word out in your personal network. (Be sure to ask for testimonials after those initial jobs are done, too.)

Social media

If you’re willing to do the research (and you definitely should do the research), social media ads can be a good way to reach potential customers. Don’t limit yourself to Facebook, either—niche social media sites like NextDoor and Houzz can provide high-quality leads.

(By the way, if you plan to have a social media presence, now’s the time to set it up.)

You need a website. (Seriously, you do.) Luckily, you don’t need to know anything about web development to make one—try Wix , Weebly , or Squarespace for super easy, drag-and-drop website building.

Online search

If Google can’t find your landscaping business, your customers can’t either. So sign up with Google My Business and take the time to set up your search profile—it’ll pay big dividends. It’s best practice to set up a LinkedIn profile, too, if you don’t have one already.

Business cards, brochures, and door hangers

It’s a bit old school, but putting your services on paper can be an effective part of a launch strategy.

Word-of-mouth marketing

This strategy takes a while to get going, but when it starts working, it really works . Once you have a handful of happy customers, ask them candidly to recommend you to their friends, family, and online communities. Link to Yelp and Facebook on your website. You can even offer your best customers a referral discount for any new customer they send your way. (Good customers tend to know other good customers.)

Any other tips for running a successful landscaping business?

Yep. If you want to run a profitable landscaping business, you’ll need to pay attention to what’s happening in the world of landscaping and stay up to date on industry conversations. So if you haven’t already, now is a great time to dive into landscaping periodicals and online message boards.

To start, bookmark the Landscape Management blog . Subscribe to Lawn and Landscape Magazine (it’s free). Ask other landscapers questions at the Contractor Talk landscapers forum . (And you might also want to put a landscaping convention on your calendar. They’re great places to pick up new tricks and learn what’s coming next in the industry.)

Finally, while owning your own company is rewarding—there’s nothing quite like it!—you should prepare yourself for the challenges it brings. Take a second to read 4 Ways to Stay Sane as an Entrepreneur , and then make a proactive plan to ensure your new landscaping business serves your life—not the other way around.

Hey, we hope that was helpful. Remember that we’re here to answer any landscaping insurance questions you might have—and we can get you an estimate on your workers' comp rate in less time than it takes to make a cup of coffee. Everything is online and easy with Huckleberry.

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How to Start a Landscaping Company

Learn how to start a landscaping company or let us help you get started on your entrepreneurial journey today, with expert support guaranteed.

Starts at $0 + state fee and only takes 5-10 minutes

Starting a landscaping business can be a rewarding venture, with the beauty of nature as your canvas and the satisfaction of transforming spaces. With an initial investment that can range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more — covering equipment, licenses, and marketing — you’ll tap into a market with high demand in both residential and commercial sectors.

Essential skills for success include knowledge of horticulture, landscape design, and business management. Profit margins can be lucrative, ranging from 15% to 50%, but be prepared to navigate challenges such as weather dependence, seasonal fluctuations, and managing labor and equipment costs. Let’s explore how to turn your green thumb into a thriving landscaping business.

Considerations Before Starting a Landscaping Company

Benefits of Opening a Landscaping Company

Whether renovating outdoor spaces or simply not having time to cut the grass, people want someone else to maintain and upgrade their outdoor surroundings for them. Despite a 6% dip during 2020, the industry grew 3.3% between 2015 and 2020 — faster than the national economy. With the average American household spending over $500 per year on lawn care and gardening alone, growth is expected to resume in 2021. 

When you own a landscaping company, you work outside and build your own client list based on the quality of work you do. You’re not stuck at a desk, and the business can start as small as one person with a lawnmower and easily scale up to several landscaper crews as your reputation grows.

Ready to open your landscaping company? Use our LLC formation service to make it official.

How to Start a Landscaping Company Checklist

Getting started isn’t all roses, of course. Competition is high: The National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) forecasts over 100,000 new landscapers and entrepreneurs entering the industry by 2025. How will you stand out?

Use the checklist below to help you on your path to running your landscaping business.

1. Create a Business Plan

While the industry is home to big companies such as TruGreen, SavATree, and BrightView Landscapes, no major name has more than 5% of the market share. Most landscaping companies are small businesses, and many employ no one but business owners.

Work to understand who your customers are, from local residents in upscale neighborhoods to businesses to a mix of both. Also take some time to decide what unmet need you’ll satisfy. It can be easy to think of a landscaping business as one person using a lawn mower in the front yard of a customer’s house. However, less than one third of companies handle residential landscaping.

Your business plan may stick with yard and garden maintenance or landscape design that includes installing flower beds or planting trees and shrubs. Some lawn care services also offer snow removal or manage holiday decorations.

Also examine how you’ll charge. Will you have a set fee for certain services? An hourly or daily rate? Innovative companies create weekly or monthly packages that drive recurring revenue from regular customers.

Be  SMART  about how you want the business to grow. Tracking goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic/Relevant, and Timely can help you see how the business is doing, and what adjustments to consider as experience teaches you about your customers, services, and pricing.

Lastly, if you don’t know at least some Spanish, consider learning. Latinos constitute over one third of landscape and lawn care company workers. If Spanish is the preferred language of a significant portion of the talent you’ll employ, some level of Spanish fluency could help you hire, retain, and engage with employees.

2. Choose a Business Structure

Sole proprietorships, general partnerships, and S corporations are all common entities you may use for your lawn care business’s structure. S corps can be more expensive and complex to establish and maintain. Sole props and partnerships are simple to set up, but higher taxation can prune your profits. Plus, as a sole proprietor, your personal assets may be in trouble in the event of a lawsuit, business debts, or other problems that may arise from financial troubles, a project gone wrong, or an employee injury claim.

That’s why many landscape businesses, especially smaller operations, choose a  limited liability company  (LLC) as their business structure. While there’s typically some upfront and annual costs (such as filing fees), starting an LLC for your landscaping business  can make up for it with better shielding of your personal assets. Plus, it may be easier to seek outside funding for adding employees, upgrading tools, or increasing services. Want some help? Using an LLC formation service can significantly simplify this process.

3. Name Your Landscaping Business

Precision Lawn Maintenance. Cutting Edge Landscape & Design. Sperry Tree Care. Your  business name  is part of the first impression you’ll make with potential customers.

Before settling on a  name for your LLC , see what competing landscaping businesses are in your area. Business names need to be unique, especially when they’re in the same industry, so search the business database at your state’s secretary of state website. Also explore what  domain names  and social media accounts are available.

Name Your LLC

Enter your desired landscaping business name to get started

4. Register Your Business and Open Financial Accounts

Once you’ve picked out a name, register your LLC or other business structure, then apply for any required business licenses. Licensure requirements vary by state. Landscaping services may only need a general business license, but some specific services — such as pesticide applications, irrigation, or landscape architecture — may have additional licensure requirements. Also see what zoning or permitting requirements you may need for your base of operations.

Apply to the IRS for your business’s employer identification number ( EIN ). This taxpayer number will help you pay taxes, open bank accounts , and more.

In addition to getting the correct insurance,  open business bank accounts  to separate your business and personal accounts.

5. Determine Your Business Costs

From hand tools to riding mowers, a truck and trailer to payroll, you’ll need to be able to cover the startup costs for your landscaping business. Non-equipment costs may include:

• Leasing or purchasing property to house the office, plus garage/workshop space for vehicles and equipment storage and maintenance 
• Costs to establish an LLC and draft an  operating agreement
• Business licenses, local zoning permits, plus quarterly and/or annual  business taxes
• Payroll and payroll taxes

A local business insurance agent can be a good resource to get the right coverage, such as workers comp, property casualty insurance, and general liability insurance. As you book jobs, process  payments , and grow your list of repeat customers, software and hardware for bookkeeping and payment processing can help you keep the company’s finances ship-shape.

How do you fund your startup costs?

Government assistance , such as grants or  Small Business Administration (SBA) loans , may be available. If you are a veteran, minority, and/or a woman, additional federal small business programs may be an option, too. Availability and requirements vary, so do your research on the program requirements.

Business credit cards can expand your purchasing power, build your company’s credit, and make costs more manageable, but watch your interest rate and develop a pay-down strategy, or you may take on too much financial burden too early.

Loans from friends and family can be a good avenue. Having terms in writing can prevent ill will and confusion. You may also explore offering your services as payment for the loan. Your relatives or friends get their money’s worth, and you can gain experience, request testimonials, and refine your business before working to gain more customers.

6. Purchase Equipment For Your Landscaping Company

Depending on your startup size and what equipment you already have, you may need landscaping tools such as:

• Pickup truck and trailer
• Power equipment: Edgers, walk-behind or riding mowers, blowers, string trimmers, chainsaws, etc.
• Hand tools: Rakes, shovels, pruning shears and hand saws, loppers, hoes, trowels, wheelbarrows, etc.
• Computers, mobile devices, and/or point-of-sale hardware

You also need to maintain your equipment. Estimate up to 10 hours per week for maintenance, such as fueling vehicles, replacing parts, changing oil, and sharpening blades.

7. Market Your Landscaping Company

How will people learn about your landscaping services?

Marketing and advertising assets can help spread the word, such as business cards, door hangers, postcards, vehicle branding and signage, and advertising online, in print, or via broadcast.

Claim and optimize your business online, too, such as with a Google My Business listing. Also consider building a presence on social media platforms like Facebook. If you’re looking to land commercial or government clients, a LinkedIn profile may enhance your professionalism.

Lastly, budget for the design, content, and hosting of your landscaping company’s website. Like a 24/7 all-in-one customer service and sales rep, your website can be an essential way people find your business and become customers.

Examples of Landscaping Businesses to Start

Landscaping businesses can take many forms, such as:

• General mowing, landscape maintenance, and/or lawn care
• New lawns (such as seeding or sod)
• Weed and pest control
• Interior landscaping in office buildings
• Design/build landscape construction services for outdoor space such as gardens, patios, etc.
• Water features such as ponds and fountains
• Xeriscaping
• Irrigation systems

Groom Your Path to a Successful Landscaping Business

Growth abounds in America’s high-demand landscaping industry. It’s competitive, but with the right business plan and understanding of what customers in your area are looking for, you can build a landscaping services business that grooms your path to profits and success.

LLC filing starts at $0 + state fee

Landscaping Business FAQs

Where should I incorporate my business?

Connecticut, Ohio, California, Florida, Washington, North Carolina, Texas, Massachusetts, and New York are among the states with high employment, wages, and/or opportunity for landscaping businesses in the U.S .

How much should I capitalize my business with at the beginning?

$5,000 to $15,000 may be sufficient to get a small company underway. However, you may need up to $250,000 if you plan to open your doors with employees in an office and in the field, you’re pursuing government property contracts, and/or you need to purchase equipment such as vehicles and riding mowers.

What are the biggest challenges to starting a landscaping business?

Marketing, bookkeeping, and retaining customers can be challenging. Landscaping businesses that upskill in these areas may have a higher chance of success.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have specific questions about any of these topics, seek the counsel of a licensed professional .

Written by Team ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness has helped people start, run, and grow over 700,000 dream companies . The editorial team at ZenBusiness has over 20 years of collective small business publishing experience and is composed of business formation experts who are dedicated to empowering and educating entrepreneurs about owning a company.

Start an LLC in Your State

When it comes to compliance, costs, and other factors, these are popular states for forming an LLC.

• Michigan LLC
• Florida LLC
• California LLC
• New York LLC
• Colorado LLC
• Georgia LLC
• New Hampshire LLC
• Arizona LLC
• West Virginia LLC
• Alabama LLC
• South Carolina LLC
• Pennsylvania LLC
• Maryland LLC
• Wyoming LLC
• Nebraska LLC
• South Dakota LLC
• District of Columbia DC LLC
• North Dakota LLC
• Delaware LLC
• Virginia LLC
• New Jersey LLC
• Louisiana LLC
• Vermont LLC
• Missouri LLC
• Illinois LLC
• Arkansas LLC
• North Carolina LLC
• Minnesota LLC
• Wisconsin LLC
• Massachusetts LLC
• Kentucky LLC
• Washington LLC
• New Mexico LLC
• Tennessee LLC
• Mississippi LLC
• Oklahoma LLC
• Montana LLC
• Connecticut LLC
• Indiana LLC
• Rhode Island LLC

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How to Start a Landscaping Business (And Make $100K+/Month)

Do you love being outside and working with your hands? How about the idea of being your own boss?

If your answer to these questions is a resounding “Yes!” then starting a landscaping business could be the perfect career for you. It certainly was for Mike Andes, the founder of Augusta Lawn Care .

Mike started Augusta Lawn Care as Andes Lawn Care to pay for college, but it became so successful that today it’s one of the fastest-growing franchises in the U.S. with over 93 landscaping business owners operating under his business model. The franchise office makes between $65K and $112K per month, and the average franchise makes approximately $37K per month.

What Is a Landscaper?

What does a landscaping business do, step 1: get landscaping experience, step 2: choose your niche and services, step 3. plan for landscaping services success, step 4: choose a landscaping business name, step 5: establish your company, step 6: purchase landscaping equipment, step 7: build your team, step 8: attract customers with marketing efforts, step 9: deliver quality work, start your own landscaping business.

A landscaper is someone who uses their understanding of horticulture, building practices, and artistic design to beautify land. Landscape professionals perform tasks like:

• Leveling land
• Selecting plants and other materials that will thrive in the local climate
• Creating a layout that will create specific emotions, paths to follow, or lighting conditions
• Planting and caring for the landscape

What Is the Difference Between a Landscaping and Lawn Care Business?

A landscaping company is focused on the design and transformation of an outdoor area through planning, construction,  arrangement, and planting of trees, shrubs, grass, and other decorative elements like paths and water features.  

Lawn care services focus on mowing lawns, pest control, fertilizing land, and spreading seeds or sod.  

Lawncare and landscaping are similar, and many companies provide both services. 

Augusta Lawn Care is a lawn care company that provides landscaping services as well. Their list of landscaping services includes:

• Mowing: Cutting Grass
• Landscaping : Leveling services, design, planting new greenery
• Hardscaping : Creating pathways to encourage people to use when traveling through the lawn
• Lawn Care : Performing upkeep of customers’ lawns on a regular basis
• Property Cleanups :  Removing weeds and leaves, plus trimming bushes
• Snow & Ice Removal: Removing snow and ice from pathways

Another landscaping services list might look like the list below.

• Garden and lawn maintenance (mowing, fertilizing, weeding, etc.)
• Maintaining and trimming trees and hedges
• Grooming golf courses
• Laying sod and lawn planting service
• Planting flowers, trees, and bushes
• Corporate/company landscaping
• Designing gardens to customer specifications
• Laying out and constructing walkways
• Installing retaining walls
• Building decks and patios
• Irrigation system design

Basically, anything involving the land around a home or business is the domain of a landscape professional. While larger landscaping companies will provide all of these services, others specialize in one area, like lawn maintenance or flower bed design. 

Now that you know what landscapers do, let’s look at how to start a landscaping business.

How to Start a Landscaping Company

Starting a landscaping business is as simple as:

• Get Landscaping Experience
• Choose Your Niche and Services
• Plan for Landscaping Services Success
• Choose a Landscaping Business Name
• Establish Your Company
• Purchase Landscaping Equipment
• Build Your Team
• Attract Customers With Marketing Efforts
• Deliver Quality Work

Mike didn’t just wake up one day and decide to start Augusta Lawn Care. He grew up less than affluent and knew he would need to earn the money to pay for college. So he started mowing lawns at age 11 and kept doing it through his bachelor degree and MBA (He started college at 13!). 

Eight years later, he was making over a million per year and started building out his landscaping business. He told us the biggest difference in his business now is:

As you grow your landscaping business, you’ll be less hands on. At first you’ll be mowing lawns and working with customers. Then you’ll start being the sales person, then you’ll literally just be supporting your employees.

Check out our interview with Mike below.

Mike found podcasts and YouTube videos were one of the best ways to learn from other landscaping businesses. It gave him the knowledge and tips he needed to start his successful landscaping business. 

You might want to start providing lawn maintenance services to learn more about the lifestyle and gain some experience. Lots of people like the idea of working outdoors, but the reality is often less than pleasant.  

The workday usually starts between 6 and 7 AM, and the weather can be tough to adapt to. You never know whether you are built for starting a landscaping business until you’ve spent 4 hours moving rocks on a hot summer day.

Mike’s Courses and Franchises

Mike offers a business course to help you get into the landscaping industry. It provides lessons on:

• Starting a Business with $15,000
• Landscaping Business Basics
• Marketing Strategy
• Bookkeeping and Accounting
• Growing to $250,000 / Year
• Adding Retail Products
• Pay for Performance (P4P)

Plus, the course includes done-for-you templates and access to previous videos. It’s effectively providing you the same information he provides the franchisees, but you build your own brand. Check out what Mike has to say about the difference between his course and franchises.

Check out Mike’s Landscape Business Course !

As you saw above, landscaping covers a wide range of construction and lawn maintenance services. For a small landscaping business today, it’s often best to focus on just one specialty, like lawn care or landscape design, rather than trying to start off as a full service landscape company. Mike told us:

I tend to focus on the parts of the landscaping market that are easiest and most profitable.

A new landscaping business will reduce startup costs and business expenses if they specialize. You’ll only be purchasing equipment that you need for the jobs you do. You’ll also need fewer skills, which means a smaller crew to get the job done.

Common niches in the landscaping industry include:

• Landscape maintenance: Rather than building or installing landscapes, you’ll be the one pruning hedges, mowing the lawn, and watering the flowers to keep them looking beautiful. Maintenance companies require the lowest initial investment because they require less equipment. On the other hand, you won’t be able to charge as much per hour as you could for more creative and labor-intensive services.
• Fertilization, weeding, and pest control: This is a specialized form of maintenance that focuses on keeping plants and lawns healthy. It requires expert knowledge of plant and grass care. You’ll also be working with potentially dangerous chemicals, so you may need to obtain extra permits or training.
• Sod and lawn installation: Businesses in this niche lay sod, spread grass seed, and install lawns for customers. This often means more one-time contracts than the recurring services offered by maintenance companies.
• Deck and patio construction: Those who have skills with building and construction can put them to great use in a landscaping business. Along with installing the deck and patio, you’ll beautify the area around it. Since this often involves new construction, you’ll need an intimate knowledge of your region’s building codes and other regulations.
• Landscape architecture and design: Businesses in this niche both design and install landscape features for clients. This can include labor-intensive projects like building retaining walls, building terraced gardens, or contouring the landscape. Designers work with customers, using their input to create attractive, livable outdoor spaces, so creativity and vision are key tools of the trade. You’ll also need to have some horticultural knowledge so you can arrange plantscapes that last and thrive.

Mike sticks mostly to the first three tasks, but he’ll occasionally do pathways and more detailed landscaping jobs.

Commercial vs. Residential Landscaping

Along with deciding which specific services you’ll offer, it’s also a good idea to consider what kind of customers you’ll work with. Mike focuses on residential landscaping for two key reasons:

• Lower up-front costs: Residential landscaping companies typically take a deposit at the start of the project that covers the cost of the materials. In commercial landscaping, you often don’t receive your pay until the job is finished, so you’ll have to pay for the materials out of your company’s funds.
• More creative freedom: In commercial landscaping, you’re typically working from a plan provided by the company. Even if this plan has flaws, you don’t get any freedom to make changes or improve it. With residential landscaping, you can work with the customer and make recommendations, giving you more control over the quality of the end result.

Commercial landscaping also has its advantages . You can have fewer clients, since commercial projects are often larger both in regard to the area and the client’s budget. It can also provide a more consistent revenue, especially in the maintenance and lawn care niche.

Create a Basic Lawn Care Price Sheet

One of the hardest things for new landscaping businesses is knowing how much to charge for services. Mike’s advice:

Do a lot of research.

Different regions have standard price ranges for landscaping services, so that’s the first thing you should look up when you’re deciding on your prices. Each project is unique, though. Many new landscaping businesses have a tendency to under-bid for projects. They want all the work they can get and don’t want to be turned down by the client. 

Another business owner, Brian Linson, told us:

Go out and get your numbers down when you’re bidding projects. Don’t be afraid to walk around and measure everything out. Just take your time when you’re bidding because the last thing you want to do is go back to a client and tell them you need more money to finish their project. That’s something no one wants to hear.

Check out the rest of the interview with Brian below.

Check out Home Advisor’s list of costs for landscaping services : 

• Lawn mowing/maintenance: $130
• Removing a tree stump: $349
• Leaf removal: $400
• Sealing asphalt: $527
• Tree and shrub maintenance: $800
• Deck sealing and waterproofing: $919
• Concrete removal: $1,081
• Patio or path repair: $1,454
• Deck repair: $1,987
• Installing sod: $1,997
• Driveway repair: $1,714
• Resloping/contouring: $2,116
• Fountain installation: $2,673
• Pond installation: $3,352
• Landscape installation:  $3,300
• Patio and path installation: $3,900
• Landscape design: $4,569
• Installing a retaining wall: $5,933
• Building a deck: $7,650

A landscaping business owner needs to have a plan if they want their small business to be successful. It’s a seasonal business, so don’t forget to plan for reduced cash flow during the winter months.

How Much Does it Cost to Start a Landscaping Business?

Initial expenses for a landscaping company vary widely, depending on the size and scope of your operations. If you’re a one-person operation that only performs basic maintenance and mowing services, you can get started with as little as $1,000. Mike told us:

When we started, we started with $1,000 to buy a blower, a weed eater, and a lawn mower.

That said, most landscaping businesses will require a larger investment. The average start-up cost is between $15,000 and $20,000 if you’re starting from scratch.

There are ways to lower these start-up costs, though. Buying used rather than new equipment can cut down significantly on your expenses. Mike specifically suggests buying your work vehicle used because they get damaged easily and the business asset will be devalued more if you buy it new.

You can also rent much of the equipment from home improvement stores, typically for around $100/day. While this is less cost-effective in the long term, it can be an excellent way to save on initial expenses if your financial resources are limited.

If you don’t want to start a business from the ground up, your other option is to buy a franchise. While this often takes more money up-front, it can be a good option for a first-time entrepreneur since you won’t need to do as much leg work to get it off the ground.

How Much Does a Landscape Business Owner Make Per Year?

The short answer, again, is “it depends.” According to Lawn & Landscape Magazine ’s State of the Industry Report , the average annual salary of a landscape company owner ranges from around $31,000-$69,000 per year.

Mike hasn’t shared his salary, but with $699 to $1200 monthly franchise fees from 93 franchises, it’s fair to say he’s making decent money.

Writing a Landscaping Business Plan

A business plan is a living document that plans for the future of your company. You’ll definitely need one if you plan to apply for small business loans or other financing, since both bankers and investors will ask to see it.

Even if you’re opening the business with your own savings, a business plan is a helpful document. It’s where you’ll outline your company’s mission statement and long-term goals, along with detailing your initial and ongoing expenses.

If you’ve never written a business plan before, take a look through a sample business plan to get more guidance on what to include and how to write it. Among the things, your business plan should include:

• The business’s mission and objectives
• A description of the company
• The services you’ll offer
• An analysis of the market
• A summary of your sales and marketing strategy
• The business’s organizational and management structure
• Initial budget figures and financial projections

Mike even recorded a whole video about planning your own company. Check it out below.

It’s important to put some thought into choosing the name of your company. Your landscape business name is the first impression customers will get, so make sure the name explains what you do.

Once you’ve picked business names for a landscaping business, it’s a pain to change them, so that’s more motivation to get it right the first time. If you’re having trouble coming up with landscaping business names, a business name generator can help you get started. 

The best landscape business names are short, simple, and tell people exactly what your business does. It should be easy to remember but also unique enough to stand out from the competition.

Keep in mind that much of a business’s presence in the modern day is online. Check to see if the business names you’re considering are available as domain names so you can get one that matches. You can use the WhoIs LookUp to see if a domain is available with the business name you want. 

Once you’ve determined what kind of services you’re going to offer, you’ll be better able to do the logistical work of establishing a company. This includes:

• Creating a Business Structure
• Getting a Landscaping Business License
• Opening a Business Bank Account
• Getting Landscaping Insurance

Keep reading for more information on how to start a small landscaping business.

Create a Business Structure

Creating a separate business entity for your landscaping company separates your business assets and your personal assets. Most local landscaping companies choose to use a limited liability company (LLC), but there are other business models that will protect your assets. To create a business entity, just go to your Secretary of State business portal. 

Find out more about business entities .

Landscaping Business License Requirements

Every new business has to be registered before they can legally operate. First, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). This is your business’ federal tax ID, which you’ll need to open a bank account, hire employees, or apply for local permits. You can apply for an EIN through the IRS website .

You’ll also need to register with the county clerk’s office for local business licenses. Depending on your state’s laws, you may also need to apply for a sales tax permit. Each state is different, so check with your local SBA.

The specific licenses and permits required for a landscaping business vary depending on your state. Check with your state’s business licensing association to find out what’s required in your area.

Get a Business Bank Account

Go to a local bank and open an account. That way when your clients pay an invoice, it goes straight into your bank. Then you can pay yourself, your business expenses, and your employees. Learn more about business bank accounts .

Get Business Insurance

Potential customers expect landscaping companies to be insured to cover job sites if they damage something while on the job. That means you need to have at least property damage and general liability insurance. Commercial clients might have other requirements. 

If you’re using your personal vehicle, don’t forget to get commercial driver’s insurance. 

The types of landscape services you’re going to provide will determine which specific equipment you’ll need. After you’ve decided on a niche, create a landscaping tools list.

If your start-up budget isn’t enough to cover everything on your list, you don’t need to fret. Start by renting more expensive tools, then buy them as you go. This was Brian’s approach when BL Landscapes was first starting. Even now, he says,

We buy the tools we need for the job, and when you sign another job you take some of that money and buy the tool you need for that job, and that way you just keep building up.

This can cut into your profits, of course. If you spend $500 on equipment for a $1,000 job, you’re not going to have much left over at the end. It’s worth it in the long run, though, because the next time a job calls for that tool, it’ll be pure profit.

Generally speaking, it’s better to buy fewer pieces of high-quality equipment than try to buy a full range of tools right off the bat. All tools wear out over time, but a well-made shovel with a fiberglass handle will serve you well for longer than the cheapest option on the shelf. 

Craigslist can be a good place to find used equipment if you want to save some money. For new tools, you can check hardware stores like Home Depot and Lowes, as well as nurseries and farm supply stores. 

Landscape Tools List

Here is some of the equipment you’re likely to need as a landscaping business, along with each tool’s approximate cost:

• Manual gardening tools (shovels, rakes, shears, trowels, etc.): $10-$50 each • Push mower: $200-$1,000 • Riding lawn mower: $1,000-$5,000 • Leaf blower: $100-$500 • Lawn spreader: $100-$500 • Sprayer (for fertilizer, pesticides, etc.): $50-$200 • Trimmer: $50-$300 • Edger: $80-$350 • Water saw: $500-$4,000 • Plate compactor: $300-$5,000 • Trailer: $1,500-$5,000 • Heavy-duty truck: $10,000-$50,000 • Portable generator: $500-$2,000

Check out this blog by Spyker to learn more about each tool.

Other landscaping companies might be one-man operations, but for larger jobs you’ll need some help. Hiring employees is one of the most difficult aspects of owning a business, and while you can find plenty of advice on the topic, there’s no substitute for experience.

Offering competitive pay is a good way to attract top talent to your company. There are a few approaches you can take:

• Mike uses Pay for Performance, which means the more effective the employee is, the more money they make.
• BL Landscapes pays $25 per hour.
• You can combine the two and give a minimum hourly wage plus commission.

You can find quality employees at a variety of places:

• Job marketplaces like LinkedIn and Monster
• Trade Schools and Colleges 

Sometimes, you’ll even meet them at lunch. We talked to a recruiter to find out how to hire.  

You’ve started your own business, but how do you find potential customers?

You’ll want to create a marketing plan that identifies your target market and how you’re going to communicate with them. 

You’ll also want to make sure you have:

• A Business Website 
• Landscaping Business Cards
• Truck Decals 
• Social Media

Mike told us:

Paid media allows you to control your lead flow. Just spend 1-2% of revenue for paid media when you’re slowing down. Painting trucks, uniforms, and brochures are also marketing. Everything we do is a form of marketing.

The first thing Brian did when he started BL Landscapes was reach out to local real estate agents. He also built relationships with his local suppliers, like nurseries and home improvement stores. As a low-cost marketing option, Brian says,

When we started, we had some cheap landscape business cards made. Go put them [out in your community], and start telling people and throwing your name out there. Really that’s the biggest thing, is just to get your name out there to anyone you can. Make yourself a Facebook business page and start going at it.

Mike encourages landscapes to share as much about their existing business as possible. The more you share what landscapers do, the more capable you are of benefiting from word-of-mouth marketing.

The absolute best advertising for a landscaping company is a well-completed project. If you consistently deliver long-lasting, beautiful landscapes, that will secure repeat business and bring in new clients when those happy customers tell their friends.

Make sure to make it easy for clients to recommend you. Give them some business cards, and provide the link to your Google reviews on your invoice. Don’t be afraid to ask. You can book clients for routine maintenance, too.

About 50% of BL Landscapes’s business comes from repeat customers. Continuing service and after-installation coverage is a huge part of this. They cover their work with a warranty, and will often help fix issues for customers even after this period has expired.

As Brian says:

Whether it’s a mistake we made or a product that failed, we try to go back and make it right.

This approach has paid off for him. In their six years of business, BL Landscapes has a 100% customer satisfaction rate. His customers know they can count on him to use high-quality materials that will stay beautiful for years to come.

We’ve answered your questions about landscaping companies, including:

• What do landscapers do?
• How much do landscapers make?
• How much to start a landscaping business?
• How to start a landscaping business with no money
• How to find what landscaping license you need
• How to come up with business names for landscaping

It doesn’t take a huge investment to start a lawn care company, and the revenue potential is high. As you can see from Mike’s success, the best way to financial success is to plan ahead and provide your company with a strong foundation.

Whether you start your own company or buy one that’s already up and running, the ultimate key to long-term success is to provide quality services. Starting a new business is never easy, but the effort you put in can yield fantastic results if you follow Mike’s advice about how to start a lawn mowing business.

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I like watching mike andes videos teaching others about lawn care and landscaping.

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