Your commercial landscaping needs care and feeding like any living thing. In order to keep your investment healthy and looking great, there are 4 things you should consider: Who, what, when, and where (we’ll leave why and how for another day). 

1. Who: Know the company you’re hiring 

Without the proper knowledge, people, equipment, and processes, the investment in your commercial landscaping can quickly go south. The company providing you with commercial landscaping maintenance services should provide you with a detailed contract with a scope of work and clear pricing. Don’t be shy about asking for references and examples of their work. You’re entrusting them to take care of your living investment. 

Don’t hesitate to ask about insurance coverage, certifications, and any special licensure your state may require for application of pesticides or herbicides. Beware of a deal that is too good to be true; the downside could cost you dearly. 

2. What: Know the scope of work

It’s easy to make assumptions about exactly what your commercial landscaping maintenance company will be doing for you. Make certain you understand what services they will and won’t provide as part of the contract. For example: 

  • Mowing: Cutting is vital, but make sure they’re trimming, edging, and blowing or collecting the trimmings. 
  • Turf Care: Weed control, fertilizer, aeration, and overseeding are important parts of your commerical landscaping maintenance.
  • Bed Maintenance: Weeding, pruning, fertilization, and mulch are vital to keeping your investment healthy and beautiful.
  • Irrigation: Management of your irrigation system should include maintenance and winterization.
  • Tree Care: Tree pruning is vital to a healthy commercial landscape. Properties with larger, mature trees may require the services of a certified arborist to remain healthy. 
  • Pest Control and Disease Treatment: Lawn pests and plant disease can quickly destroy a beautiful landscape. Make sure your commercial landscaping provider is monitoring and treating these issues in a timely manner. 

3. When: Know the frequency, start date, and end date of services

Your commercial landscaper should educate you on the frequency of maintenance necessary to keep your property healthy and beautiful. When will leaves be collected, perennials cut back, and pruning performed? Will seasonal color be installed in spring and fall? 

4. Where: Which areas are covered? 

Make sure the covered areas are specifically detailed in your commercial landscaping maintenance contract. Don’t make assumptions about the details of where those services will be provided. Many contracts will even include drawings detailing where services will and will not be provided. While you may have talked with your provider about what’s included, it’s always best to get it in writing.

With the right commercial landscaping maintenance company, your investment in your property and business will yield beautiful benefits for many years to come!