How Much Does Commercial Landscaping Cost?

Finding the balance between cost and quality in commercial landscaping can make or break your space’s appeal. A solid landscape design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s crucial for making a good first impression on clients and employees. From lawn care services to complex designs, understanding costs is key.

Are you planning regular maintenance like frequent mowing and weed control? Or are you eyeing a full landscape installation with irrigation systems? A good rule of thumb is to weigh material costs against ongoing maintenance costs.

Whether you’re looking for backyard landscaping or a full commercial landscape upgrade, knowing your options can help you create an inviting exterior without spending a fortune.

What Is Commercial Landscaping?

Commercial landscaping encompasses more than the simple arrangement of plants around business premises. It involves a meticulous blend of design, functionality, and sustainability aimed at enhancing the exterior spaces of commercial properties. Through strategic planning, detailed plant selection, and regular maintenance, landscaping services transform these spaces into compelling, inviting environments that help businesses attract and retain customers.

Why Is Landscaping Important for Businesses?

For any business, landscaping’s significance extends beyond mere aesthetics to implications for the brand’s market perception and environmental commitment. Properly maintained landscapes are essential in making positive first impressions and can substantially increase commercial property value.

Having a great landscape in your business can:

• Boosts curb appeal, enhancing the attractiveness to potential clients and customers.
• Increases the commercial property value, ensuring a sound return on investment.
• Improves the overall work environment, promoting employee satisfaction and productivity.
• Supports sustainability efforts, contributing to energy conservation and biodiversity.
• Reflects the business’s attention to detail and commitment to maintenance and care.
• Encourage customer engagement, creating inviting outdoor spaces for patrons to relax and interact.
• Enhance branding efforts by allowing for unique landscaping designs that convey the company’s identity and values.
• Offer natural cooling and shade, leading to reduced energy costs for air conditioning during warmer months.
• Provide spaces for outdoor meetings or activities, fostering creativity and collaboration amongst employees.
• Show a commitment to the community by enhancing the neighborhood’s aesthetic and contributing to its vibrancy.

How Much Does Commercial Landscaping Cost?

The costs associated with commercial landscaping can vary widely, depending on the scope and complexity of the project. Typically, businesses could spend anywhere from several thousand dollars for minor enhancements to over a hundred thousand for extensive modifications and installations. 

Factors like landscape design, size of the area, types of plants used, and additional features like irrigation systems or lighting significantly affect the overall cost. To get a clear idea, it’s advisable to seek a professional landscaping company for an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs.

Commercial Landscaping Cost Breakdown

Cost by Square Foot

The cost per square foot for commercial landscaping typically ranges from $4 to $12. This average cost is influenced by the complexity of the landscape design and the types of materials used. The choice of unique or high-quality materials can significantly increase the overall expense.

Cost by Hour

Labor costs in commercial landscaping are calculated on an hourly rate basis, typically varying between $50 and $100 per hour. Factors such as the need for specialized equipment and the expertise of landscape professionals, such as tree trimmers or landscape designers, influence these rates.

Cost by Project

Expenses for a complete commercial landscaping project can differ greatly, starting as low as $5,000 for simpler designs and escalating beyond $100,000 for more complex installations with features like water systems and exotic plants. The size and scope of the project play crucial roles in determining the final cost.

Cost by Type of Landscaping Service

Commercial landscaping encompasses a wide range of services, each with varying costs associated based on the specifics of the job required. Below is an overview of typical services and their relative cost implication:

• Commercial Lawn Maintenance: This basic service typically includes frequent mowing, edging, and general upkeep. Costs vary based on lawn size and the frequency of service required.
• Landscape Design and Installation: Custom designs by a skilled landscape architect and their subsequent installation incur costs. These processes often require detailed planning and a variety of materials, which can escalate the commercial landscaping price depending on complexity.
• Landscape Enhancement and Renovation: Upgrading existing commercial landscapes can involve adding new plant types, irrigation systems, or other features to enhance aesthetic appeal and functionality, which increases the project cost.
• Integrated Pest Management: Employing strategies to manage pests with minimal environmental impact involves monitoring and using biological controls, which can be a cost-effective and sustainable option.
• Additional Comprehensive Maintenance Services: Services such as lawn aeration, soil amendments to improve soil health, and advanced pest control strategies are offered to maintain the condition and appearance of the landscape over time. Each of these adds to the overall maintenance cost.

What Are the Factors Influencing Commercial Landscaping Costs?

Size and Scope of the Project

Understandably, the larger the area and the more complex the design and features, the higher the landscaping costs. Expansive properties especially require a substantial landscape workforce, increasing labor costs. This is because larger areas require more materials and more extensive soil preparation. They may also involve sophisticated design elements like water features or intricate flower beds, which all contribute to the overall cost.

Site Conditions and Accessibility

Challenging soil conditions, poor soil quality, or limited accessibility can amplify the costs due to the need for additional labor and specialized treatment or equipment. If the terrain is uneven or hard to access, it requires more time and effort from the landscaping team, which in turn increases the project’s hourly wages. 

Additionally, properties with poor soil may require substantial amendments or even engineered soils, which can significantly elevate the project’s material costs.

Plant Selection and Materials

The choice of native plants versus exotic plants affects not only the initial cost but also the long-term maintenance expenses. Native plants typically adapt better to the local climate and soil, which reduces the need for water, pesticides, and fertilizers, thereby lowering ongoing maintenance costs. 

Conversely, exotic plants may offer a unique aesthetic but often require specialized care and conditions to thrive, which can substantially increase both initial and ongoing expenses.

Irrigation Needs

Installing and maintaining irrigation systems can be costly, especially for larger properties or those located in regions with significant water regulations. Effective irrigation systems are crucial for maintaining landscape health but must be designed and installed correctly to avoid water waste and ensure durability. 

Regular maintenance of these systems to prevent leaks and ensure efficiency also adds to the cost, particularly in areas with higher water costs or stricter conservation regulations.

Why Is Commercial Landscaping So Expensive?

The complexity of creating and maintaining inviting, functional outdoor spaces for commercial properties explains the high costs associated with commercial landscaping. These expenses cover everything from initial soil analysis and landscape design planning to the installation of features like pathways and water features and the required ongoing maintenance.

How to Estimate Commercial Landscaping Costs

Step 1: Define the Scope and Size of the Project

Defining the specific details and extent of your commercial landscaping project is important for an accurate estimate. This initial step influences the overall planning and resource allocation, which is essential for mapping out the scale of labor and materials required. By understanding the full scope and property size, you create a foundation that helps prevent underestimation and ensures all aspects of the landscaping work are comprehensively addressed.

Step 2: Select Your Design and Materials

Choosing the right design and materials significantly impacts the overall cost of commercial landscaping. Whether it involves complex designs for larger properties or simple flower beds for smaller corporate exteriors, your choice directly shapes your budget. Prioritize selecting high-quality materials and appropriate types of plants that not only enhance curb appeal but also align with the environmental conditions and sustainability goals of your commercial project.

Step 3: Consider Maintenance Requirements

Forecasting future landscape maintenance costs is a key component of your commercial landscaping budget. Regular maintenance services, including lawn mowing, tree pruning, and weed control, along with intermittent expenses for unusual repairs, must be factored in. Adequately accounting for ongoing maintenance ensures your landscape remains vibrant and functional, maximizing its long-term value and aesthetic appeal.

Step 4: Get Professional Quotes

Seeking detailed and tailored quotes from professional landscaping companies offers the most accurate financial perspective for your commercial landscaping project. This step allows you to gauge the landscape maintenance costs, material costs, and labor costs, comparing them across service providers. 

It’s crucial to establish a realistic budget that reflects both your project requirements and financial constraints, ultimately leading to informed financial planning and successful project execution.

How to Save on Commercial Landscaping Costs

1. Optimize Design Plans

To minimize expenses effectively, begin with a well-thought-out design that maximizes the use of available space and resources. Consult with a landscape designer who can offer innovative yet cost-effective solutions. For example, incorporating native plants and xeriscaping can reduce the need for irrigation, lowering water bills and maintenance costs.

2. Choose Cost-Effective Materials

Select materials that provide durability and affordability. Choosing the right mulch, such as wood chips or recycled rubber, can help control weeds and reduce soil moisture loss, which in turn decreases the frequency of watering. Consider also the long-term benefits of investing in quality materials that might carry a higher upfront cost but will last longer and require less replacement over time.

3. Phase Out the Project

If the full cost of the desired commercial landscaping project is prohibitive upfront, consider completing the project in phases. Start with the areas that are most visible to the public or most important for your business’s operations. This phased approach not only spreads out the costs but also allows for adjustments based on budget and feedback on the completed sections.

4. Implement Efficient Irrigation Systems

Incorporate modern irrigation technologies such as drip irrigation systems or smart controllers that help reduce water waste and lower water bills. These systems deliver water directly to the base of the plant and provide optimal hydration by scheduling watering times based on the climate and soil conditions.

5. Regular Maintenance

Maintaining the landscape can prevent costly issues from arising. Engage in regular maintenance services, which include pruning, weed control, and monitoring the health of plants. Frequent, smaller upkeep efforts can prevent larger, more expensive problems in the future. Also, consistent landscape maintenance ensures that the commercial property remains aesthetically appealing and functional, which is vital for maintaining property value.

6. Seek Professional Advice

Consult with experienced professionals and landscaping experts who can provide valuable insights into cost-saving techniques specific to your property’s needs and regional characteristics. They can offer advice on the most effective ways to reduce costs without compromising on the quality and aesthetics of your commercial landscape.

Create a Business Impact With Professional Landscaping—Let’s Get Started!

Investing in commercial landscaping maintenance is a strategic decision that offers substantial long-term benefits for your business’s image and operational environment. A well-executed landscape design boosts your property’s aesthetic appeal and ecological value.

When you’re ready to maximize your property’s potential, Fischer Landscaping & Design is at your service. Our landscape company stands out due to our dedication to customized solutions, ensuring your outdoor space thrives under local soil conditions and climate. We provide a comprehensive range of services, from plant selection and lawn care services to irrigation systems and soil amendments, all tailored to meet your quality standards.

Make a bold statement with your exterior environment—contact Fischer Landscaping & Design today!