How to Start a Landscaping Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve got a green thumb and dreams of being your own boss, starting a landscaping business might be exactly the move. Whether you love taming wild yards or designing picture-perfect gardens, there’s real opportunity here—and not just because everyone and their neighbor needs help mowing the lawn. 

The landscape services industry has a market size of $153 billion in 2024 and demand isn’t slowing down.

That means this could be your moment in the lawn care industry. You can build something profitable, rewarding, and scalable with the right tools, mindset, and plan. The best part? You don’t need a fancy degree or years of experience to get going. 

We’ll walk you through how to start your own landscaping business, whether you’re dreaming of local lawn care or full-blown landscape design services. 

Pardon the pun but, let’s dig in.

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Step 1: Choose your landscaping business model.

Before you buy a mower or print your business cards, take a beat to figure out what kind of landscaping business model you actually want to build. Not every landscaping business looks the same—and that’s a good thing. Choosing your lane helps you stand out, skip burnout, and attract your dream clients.

Don’t offer everything to everyone. Start with your strengths and grow from there.

Lawn care & maintenance

Starting small? Lawn maintenance and care is your low-cost entry point. You’re talking mowing, edging, fertilizing—the simple stuff that homeowners would love to hand off. It’s a low-barrier way to earn steady income, especially if you’re reliable.

Wondering what you need to start a landscaping business? Just the basics: a mower, a trimmer, and maybe a leaf blower. Add in some good vibes and word-of-mouth, and you’re off to the races.

Hardscaping

Hardscaping is all about the sturdy stuff—patios, walkways, retaining walls, and fire pits that make backyards Instagram-worthy. It’s a little more labor-intensive (read: heavy lifting and precise measurements), but it also pays well and looks amazing in your portfolio.

If you're wondering how to start a landscaping company that goes beyond mowing and trimming, this is one way to level up. Just be ready to invest in the right gear—and maybe some knee pads for your knees.

Garden design & installation

Love getting creative with plants, colors, and layout? Then you might be built for starting a landscape design business. You’ll work with clients to map out beautiful, functional outdoor spaces. If you also offer installation, you get to bring your vision to life.

It helps to have some plant knowledge and a flair for aesthetics, but don’t worry if you’re not a certified garden guru (yet). If you’re excited about creating something custom and beautiful, this model is right up your alley. So if you’re asking yourself how to start a landscape design business with creativity at the core, start here.

Commercial landscaping

Commercial clients—like office buildings, apartment complexes, or school campuses—can be a game-changer if you’re thinking about how to grow a landscaping business. These contracts often mean regular work, bigger invoices, and more stability.

The flip side? You’ll need a team you can trust and systems that actually work. But if you want to run a landscaping business that scales over time, commercial work is worth looking into. Plus, showing off those big, tidy lawns never hurts your brand.

Specialized services

Maybe you don’t want to do all the things. Maybe you want to focus on one area—like pest control, irrigation systems, or organic gardening—and be the go-to pro in that space. That’s where specialized services come in.

Can you build raving fans by doing one thing really well? Absolutely. Are you going to need some extra training and licensing? Sure. But is the market strong for niche services? Yup. This could be your sneaky-smart way into the landscaping world.

Step 2: Create a landscaping business plan.

Ready to go pro? Then it’s time to map out your business plan for landscaping—even if it’s just a simple doc in Google Drive for now. A little planning on the front end can save you a whole lot of stress later. This is your chance to define who you’re serving, what you’re offering, how much you’re charging, and how you’ll turn a profit.

If you’re looking for funding or you just want to know your numbers, a business plan is the best way to start a successful landscaping business without heading down the wrong garden path.

Target market

Let’s be real—how to start your own landscaping business depends a lot on who you’re serving. Are you targeting busy homeowners who want weekly lawn care? Real estate agents who need fast curb appeal? Commercial buildings that want clean-cut exteriors on the regular? The more specific you get, the easier it’ll be to stand out and speak your clients’ language.

You don’t need everyone—just your people.

Services & pricing

What are you actually offering and what will it cost? Start with a shortlist of services you can deliver confidently, then give those services competitive prices based on your local market. Peek at what similar businesses charge to get a ballpark.

As you build, you can raise your rates, offer package deals, or test out different pricing models. The key to running a landscaping business that lasts? Charge enough to be profitable and sustainable without undercutting your worth.

Startup costs

Let’s talk money. How much it costs to start a landscaping business depends on your services, your gear, and if you’re starting solo or building a team. Keep it lean with just the basics (like a mower, blower, and trimmer), or invest upfront if you’re jumping in big. 

Don’t forget licenses (including upfront plus yearly renewal costs), insurance, and tools to manage your team and clients. 

Make a rough list of your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and save-for-laters. Knowing your numbers now means fewer surprises later.

Revenue projections

You don’t need to be a spreadsheet wizard, but it is worth estimating your potential income. Look at how many clients you’d need per week, per month, and per season to hit your goals. Then factor in things like equipment costs, gas, and labor.

This is how you build a landscaping business that grows, not just survives. Even a simple revenue projection helps you plan smarter, hire better, and avoid burnout in year one.

Step 3: Register your business & get licenses.

Before you touch a lawnmower or quote a job, let’s make things official. Whether you're figuring out how to start my own landscaping business from scratch or just want to stay on the right side of the law, this is the step where your business becomes real. From paperwork to permits, here’s what to check off.

Choose a business structure.

This one sets the foundation. You can operate as a sole proprietor, which is quick and easy—but doesn’t protect your personal assets. Want a bit more protection? Register as an LLC (Limited Liability Company). That way, your personal finances stay separate from your business, which is super helpful if you ever face legal or financial hiccups.

Register your business name.

Now for the fun part—naming your business. You can go classic (like “Green & Clean Lawn Care”) or clever (hello, “Sodfather Landscaping”), make sure no one else is using it in your state. Once you land on a name, register it with your Secretary of State’s office and claim your domain name so you can build a website later.

Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number).

Think of your EIN as a Social Security number for your business. You’ll need it to pay taxes, hire employees, and open a business bank account. The good news? It’s free and easy to get through the IRS website. Even solo, an EIN keeps your taxes and payroll clean.

Obtain necessary permits & licenses.

This is where things vary by state, city, and even county. You may need a local business license and a sales and tax permit. If you’re handling any kind of chemical pesticides or fertilizers, you’ll likely need special certifications. 

Sixteen states currently require landscapers to hold a specific landscaping license, especially if you’re doing irrigation work or working on large commercial projects.

So if you’re asking, “Do I need a license to do landscaping?”, the answer is probably yes. Check your state’s website or small business association for the exact requirements.

Get business insurance.

Accidents happen—especially when you’re working with blades, blowers, and heavy machinery. General liability insurance helps protect you in case of property damage or injuries on the job. If you have a team, you’ll also need workers’ comp insurance. You’ll also want to get commercial auto insurance for any vehicles(s) you’re using for your business.

Not only does insurance give you peace of mind, it also helps you land bigger contracts. Clients want to know they’re protected and that they’re hiring a pro.

Consider LLC registration.

Already leaning toward setting up an LLC? Here’s why it’s a smart move. It adds a layer of legal protection, makes taxes easier, and builds trust with clients. In some states, becoming an LLC also helps you land better insurance rates or simplifies the process of getting bonded (which is usually required for commercial contracts).

Bottom line: If you’re serious about owning a landscaping business long-term, an LLC is worth it.

Step 4: Purchase landscaping equipment & tools.

Before you dive into client work, you’re going to need the right gear to get the job done—and not just a pair of gloves and knee-pads. From basic tools to big-ticket gear, here’s what you need to start your landscaping business—without blowing your budget.

Basic landscaping equipment for beginners

If you’re figuring out how to start a small landscaping business, you can absolutely start with just the essentials. Most beginner landscapers kick things off with:

• A reliable lawnmower
• A weed trimmer or edger
• A leaf blower
• A shovel, rake, and basic pruning tools
• A truck or trailer to haul everything around

If you're just starting out and wondering how much does it cost to start a landscaping business, these basics can run you anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 if you're buying new.You can always start with used or rented equipment to cut down on costs.

Pro tip: Renting lets you test tools before investing and figure out what can wait.

Optional equipment for growth

Once you start landing more jobs (and growing that reputation for being the go-to yard wizard in town), it might be time to upgrade your tools. This is especially true if you're leaning into larger or more complex projects.

Think about adding tools like:

• A ride-on mower for large properties
• A dethatcher or aerator for lawn health services
• Chainsaws and hedge trimmers for serious trimming jobs
• Irrigation tools for installs and repairs
• Wheelbarrows, soil spreaders, and fertilizer sprayers
  
  

Also, don’t forget the safety gear—boots, goggles, gloves, and noise-canceling headphones go a long way when you’re in the field all day.

Consider investing in landscaping business software to streamline your operations, manage scheduling, and improve overall efficiency.

Adding these to your toolkit gradually will help you take on higher-paying jobs and expand your offerings—key if you’re aiming to run a successful landscaping business long-term.

Step 5: Set your pricing & services.

You’ve got the gear, now it’s time to decide what you’re charging and what landscaping services you’ll offer. Getting clear on your pricing structure is one of the most important parts of starting a landscaping company that actually makes money. It also sets you up to run a landscaping business that’s sustainable—and scalable.

Hourly rates

Charging by the hour is pretty typical, especially when you’re first starting out. It’s an easy way to price services that depend on the size of the yard, how overgrown things are, or how much sweat it’s going to take to get the job done. 

The going rate? It depends on your location and experience, but somewhere between $25–$75 per hour is typical.

Hourly pricing gives clients transparency, but be careful because some customers can get sticker shock if they don’t know how long a job will take. That’s why it helps to estimate hours ahead of time and communicate clearly. This model works great when you’re offering flexible or custom services or if you’re just figuring out your local rates.

Flat rates

Flat rates take the guesswork out of the equation. Instead of charging based on time, you set a fixed price for a particular service: mowing a quarter-acre lawn, trimming a hedge, installing new sod. This is often the best choice for running a successful landscaping business because clients love knowing what they’ll pay upfront.

Flat rates also help you work faster and more efficiently. You’ll start to notice trends in how long certain jobs take and where you can speed things up. 

Just make sure you think about your materials, labor, and profit margin. Don’t sell yourself short—even if you’re still learning how to start a landscaping business with no experience, your time and skill are worth something.

Seasonal contracts

If you’re tired of chasing one-off jobs, seasonal contracts are the holy grail. These agreements guarantee work (and income) for an entire season. Think weekly lawn care in spring and summer, fall leaf cleanup, or winter yard prep. It’s a predictable model that builds long-term relationships and makes scaling up much easier.

Bonus: Bundle services to upsell. Clients love deals and you’ll love the regular income. It’s a win-win—and one of the smartest ways to shift from wondering how hard it is to start a landscaping business to saying, “I got this.”

Step 6: Get your first clients & market your business.

You’ve got your mower gassed up, your prices locked in, and your gloves ready to go. Now it’s time to land those first clients. Marketing doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does have to be consistent if you want to grow a landscaping business that keeps your calendar booked solid.

Social media

Instagram, Facebook, TikTok—yes, even TikTok—is where your potential clients are hanging out. Post before-and-afters, show off your lawn stripes, share tips for yard care, and don’t be afraid to show your face. People buy from people, especially in local service businesses.

Social media is also a great way to collect testimonials and build a little buzz. Add a location to your posts so your content pops up when someone searches for local landscapers. It’s one of the best free tools in your toolbox.

Google My Business

If you do nothing else, claim and complete your Google Business Profile. It’s how you show up when someone Googles “lawn care near me”. It gives you a chance to highlight your services, hours, contact info, and glowing reviews. Bonus: it boosts your credibility before people even land on your website.

Once your profile’s set up, ask your early customers to leave reviews. A few five-star ratings go a long way when it comes to standing out against bigger companies and showing potential clients you mean business.

Referrals & word-of-mouth

Nothing beats a neighbor saying, “You’ve gotta hire my lawn guy.” Encourage referrals by offering discounts for repeat clients who send friends your way. Leave a few business cards behind or shoot your clients a thank-you message with a little incentive to refer you.

It might feel old school, but this is still one of the most reliable ways to start a small landscaping business and grow your reputation quickly.

Flyers & yard signs

Yard signs are like little billboards in the neighborhoods you want to dominate. After a job well done, ask if you can pop one on the lawn for a week or two. Flyers also work—especially if you’re targeting specific streets or housing communities.

Keep it simple: clear services, pricing tiers, contact info, and maybe even a special offer. These small efforts can lead to big results, especially when you’re just starting out and on a budget.

Partner with realtors & HOAs

Realtors are always looking for reliable pros to help sellers boost curb appeal. And buyers love a lawn that’s already in good shape. Reach out to local real estate offices and offer referral partnerships. Same goes for homeowner associations (HOAs), which often hire landscapers for regular upkeep or pass along recommendations to residents.

Step 7: Expand & scale your landscaping business.

Once you’ve built a steady stream of happy clients and reliable income, it’s time to think bigger. Expanding your landscaping business doesn’t mean saying yes to everything—it means getting smart about your systems, your services, and your team. This is where you shift from doing the work to growing the business.

Hire employees

Many landscape business owners find that hiring reliable team members is crucial for scaling their operations. If you’re turning away work or spending more time behind the mower than managing the business, it’s time to hire. 

Start with one part-time or seasonal worker to test the waters. Look for team members who are hardworking, reliable, and care about the little things because let’s be honest, edging and trimming are make-or-break details.

Use tools like Homebase to make scheduling, time tracking, and communication a breeze. As your team grows, so will your capacity—and your profits.

Offer additional services

Add-ons can turn a $100 job into a $300 job—easy. Think: mulching, seasonal cleanups, planting annuals, or even holiday light installation. These extras help you stand out from competitors and give your clients a one-stop-shop for all things outdoors.

This kind of upselling is a smart way to boost revenue without needing to chase more clients.

Invest in automation

Running a landscaping business shouldn’t mean drowning in paperwork. Landscaping business software can automate: invoices, reminders, scheduling, payroll, even marketing. 

The more you can take off your plate, the more time you have to focus on strategy, growth, and scaling your business like a pro. 

Apps like Homebase can help with hiring, scheduling, time tracking, and even team communication—freeing you up to think big-picture.

Consider commercial contracts

When you’re ready to level up, start bidding on commercial jobs. HOAs, apartment complexes, and business parks need consistent maintenance—and they pay well. These contracts take more time upfront, but they’re often worth the effort for the reliable income.

The best part? Commercial work tends to be less seasonal, which can help balance your cash flow throughout the year.

Plant seeds of success with Homebase

Starting your own landscaping business is an amazing way to turn your outdoor skills into real income—and grow something that’s fully your own. Whether you’re building flower beds or building an empire, the tools you use can make or break your business.

With Homebase, you can skip the spreadsheets and focus on what really matters: running a successful landscaping business. From hiring and scheduling to time tracking and payroll, Homebase keeps everything in one place. No mess, no chaos, and no extra admin hours eating into your weekends.

Start for free and see why thousands of small business owners use Homebase to get more done—without burning out.

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How to start a landscaping business FAQs

How profitable is owning a landscaping business?

Owning a landscaping business can be very profitable once you build a solid client base and keep your expenses under control. Although profits vary in the landscaping industry, any small landscaping business can bring in six figures annually, with a 10–12% profit margin being a solid benchmark. The key? Smart pricing, efficient scheduling, and minimizing downtime. 

How much can a landscaping business make?

That depends on your services, location, and how much you’re willing to hustle. Solo operators can earn $50,000–$100,000 a year. Add a crew and expand into higher-ticket services or commercial contracts, and you’re looking at serious earning potential.

What’s the best business structure for landscaping?

Most landscaping businesses start as sole proprietorships or LLCs. An LLC is usually a better choice because it protects your personal assets if something goes sideways. It's a must-do if you're serious about starting your own landscaping business the right way.

How much do you need to start a landscaping business?

If you’ve already got the basic tools, you can technically start with just a few hundred bucks. But if you need equipment, insurance, and licenses, expect to invest anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 to get going.

Do you need a license to do landscaping?

Maybe. Licensing requirements vary by state. For example, starting a landscaping business in California requires experience and passing a state exam, while starting a landscaping business in Florida is a little less red-tape heavy. Always check your state’s laws before diving in.

Do I need experience to start a landscaping business?

Not necessarily, but it helps. You can absolutely figure it out as you go (Google and YouTube are your friends), but having hands-on experience with tools, plant care, and job site safety will give you a huge leg up.

How do I compete with big landscaping companies?

Easy: be local, be personal, and be consistent. Big companies might have flashier trucks, but you’ve got the advantage of personalized service, faster response times, and that friendly-neighborhood-expert energy. Build relationships, ask for referrals, and deliver great work—that’s how you win.