His Workmanship

Contact Us
Contact Us

12 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Starting a Landscape Business

/ Landscape / By

Table of Contents

Starting a landscape business can be an incredibly rewarding journey for anyone passionate about the outdoors, design, and hands-on work. The idea of transforming dull yards into vibrant outdoor living spaces while being your own boss is exciting — but success doesn’t happen overnight. Beyond mowing lawns and planting trees, you’ll need business skills, financial awareness, marketing strategies, and a clear understanding of your goals. Before jumping in, take a moment to think through your plan. These 12 key questions will help you evaluate your readiness, identify gaps, and create a roadmap to a profitable and sustainable landscaping business.

1. Why Do I Want to Start a Landscaping Business?

Landscaping is a broad field that includes everything from lawn mowing and snow removal to full-scale design and hardscaping. Choosing your specialty early helps you plan your investment, training, and marketing. For instance:

  • Maintenance-focused services (mowing, trimming, fertilizing) require less equipment and can provide steady income.

  • Design and installation services (patios, retaining walls, gardens) require more expertise and tools but offer higher profit margins. If you’re unsure whether to tackle a retaining wall yourself or hire a pro, our guide DIY or Hire a Pro? How to Decide for Your Retaining Wall Project can help you make that decision.

  • Specialized services (irrigation systems, lighting, or tree work) set you apart from competitors.
    Defining your scope ensures you don’t stretch your resources too thin and can build a reputation for excellence in specific areas.

3. Do I Have the Necessary Skills and Experience?

Running a successful landscaping company takes more than physical labor. You’ll need technical skills (plant knowledge, grading, soil prep), business management (invoicing, scheduling, client communication), and people skills (customer service, teamwork). If you’re new, consider gaining experience by working under an established landscaper for a season or two. Online courses in landscaping design, equipment operation, and small business management can also be beneficial. Having strong technical and business foundations will set you apart from competitors and boost client confidence.

4. Who Is My Target Market?

Every business thrives when it knows its audience. Identify whether you’ll serve residential homeowners, commercial clients, or property managers.

  • Residential clients often want personal attention and curb appeal improvements.

  • Commercial properties need reliability, professional contracts, and consistent maintenance.

  • Municipal or HOA clients value dependability and long-term relationships.
    Once you understand your market, tailor your pricing, services, and branding to their needs. For example, a luxury residential landscaper should highlight design quality, while a commercial maintenance provider should emphasize reliability and efficiency.

5. How Much Capital Do I Need to Get Started?

Starting costs can range from a few thousand dollars for a basic lawn care setup to tens of thousands for a full-service landscaping company. Major expenses include:

  • Equipment and tools (mowers, trailers, trimmers)

  • Vehicle and fuel costs

  • Business registration, insurance, and licensing

  • Marketing (website, signage, ads)

  • Employee wages or subcontractor payments

Create a detailed budget before launching. Plan for at least 3–6 months of operating expenses since income may be inconsistent in the early stages. Starting lean and reinvesting profits into your growth can help you scale sustainably.

6. What Equipment and Tools Will I Need?

Your equipment defines your efficiency and the quality of your work. Basic tools include lawnmowers, trimmers, edgers, shovels, rakes, wheelbarrows, and safety gear. As your business expands, you may add skid steers, sod cutters, power augers, or dump trailers.
When buying, focus on durability, warranty, and serviceability rather than just low price. Reliable equipment means fewer delays and happier clients. Don’t forget to factor in maintenance costs and storage solutions for your gear — a secure garage or trailer is a must. Choosing the right tools is critical for efficiency and quality work. From mowers and trimmers to shovels and wheelbarrows, having the right equipment makes all the difference. For a detailed list of essential tools for homeowners and small-scale projects, check out our guide 11 Yard Tools Every Homeowner Needs for Landscaping Work.

7. Do I Understand Local Licensing and Insurance Requirements?

Every region has unique rules for landscaping contractors. Some states require a landscape contractor’s license or pesticide application permit. Failing to comply can result in fines or loss of business.Insurance is equally critical — at minim um, you’ll need general liability insurance and possibly worker’s compensation if you employ others. Proper coverage protects you and your clients from accidents, property damage, or legal issues. Always verify requirements with your local city or state licensing department before accepting your first job.

8. How Will I Price My Services?

Pricing is one of the most common challenges for new landscapers. You’ll need to balance profitability with competitiveness. Consider your hourly labor rate, materials, travel time, overhead (fuel, maintenance, insurance), and desired profit margin.
Start by researching local competitors and understanding what clients in your area are willing to pay. Offer tiered pricing or package deals to appeal to different budgets. Transparent, well-structured pricing builds trust and ensures your business stays financially healthy.

9. How Will I Market My Business?

Even the best landscaper won’t get clients without good marketing. Start by building a professional website showcasing your services, portfolio, and testimonials. Claim your Google Business Profile and encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews.Use social media — particularly Facebook, Instagram, and Nextdoor — to post project photos, seasonal tips, and special promotions. Local flyers, yard signs, and word-of-mouth referrals also remain powerful. As your business grows, you can explore paid ads or SEO content (like blog posts and service guides) to attract more online traffic.

10. Who Will Handle the Work — Just Me or a Team?

At first, many landscape entrepreneurs work solo or with a partner to minimize costs. However, as demand increases, hiring a small team can boost productivity and profits. When hiring, look for employees with strong work ethics and basic landscaping experience. Train them in safety, communication, and customer service. Implement scheduling systems and clear processes early to avoid chaos as your crew grows. Leadership and organization are key to scaling successfully. Hiring motivated seasonal workers can make a big difference during busy months. College students are often reliable and physically fit — see our post Why College Athletes Should Join His Workmanship for a Summer Landscaping Gig for tips on recruiting seasonal help.

11. What Makes My Business Different?

Your unique selling proposition (USP) sets you apart in a competitive market. Maybe you focus on eco-friendly landscaping, fast project completion, or custom outdoor designs. Whatever your specialty, make sure it’s clear in your branding, website, and sales pitch. Customers choose companies that reflect their values. For example, if sustainability is your focus, highlight your use of organic fertilizers, native plants, and water-saving irrigation systems. Defining and promoting your USP builds credibility and customer loyalty.

12. What Are My Long-Term Goals?

Think beyond the first year. Where do you want your business to be in 5 or 10 years? Do you plan to stay local, franchise, or expand into design and construction? Setting both short-term and long-term goals gives you a roadmap for decision-making.
Write down measurable objectives — like reaching $100K in annual revenue, buying new trucks, or securing 50 recurring clients. Regularly reviewing and adjusting these goals helps ensure your landscaping business continues to grow and adapt to changing market demands.

Conclusion

Starting a landscape business can be one of the most fulfilling career moves you make — offering independence, creativity, and the chance to make your community more beautiful. But like any business, it requires thoughtful planning and self-awareness. By asking yourself these 12 critical questions, you’ll identify your strengths, prepare for challenges, and create a roadmap toward success. With clear goals, quality service, and consistent effort, your landscaping business can thrive season after season — turning your passion for the outdoors into a profitable and lasting profession. If you’re interested in learning more, you can fill out this intake form to begin the onboarding process.