Your lawn and landscape are an investment. A healthy yard can increase your home’s value, save water, and make your property more enjoyable. But choosing the right company is important. The lowest price is not always the best value. A trained professional can help keep your plants healthy while protecting Florida’s water and wildlife. UF/IFAS and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) recommend asking a few simple questions before hiring anyone.
Know What You Need
Before calling a company, decide what services you want. You may need:
- Lawn mowing
- Shrub pruning
- Fertilization
- Weed control
- Insect or disease treatment
- Irrigation repair
- Landscape design
Some companies do everything, while others specialize in only a few services.
Make Sure They Are Licensed
In Florida, some lawn and landscape work requires a state license.
If a company applies fertilizers for hire, the applicator should have the proper FDACS fertilizer certification. If pesticides are used, the applicator must have the correct pesticide license for the work being performed. Always ask to see proof of licensing if fertilizer or pesticide applications are included in the service.
Ask About Insurance
Professional companies should carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Insurance helps protect both you and the workers if an accident happens on your property.
Look for Extra Training
Good professionals continue learning throughout their careers. Ask if they have completed programs such as:
- Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP)
- Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Certified Professional (FFLCP)
- International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certification for tree work
- Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) certifications
These certifications show the company has invested in education and follows current science-based recommendations.
Ask Questions
A good company should be happy to answer your questions. Ask:
- How long have you been in business?
- Can you provide references?
- Can I see photos of similar work?
- Will you give me a written estimate?
- Who will actually perform the work?
If someone pressures you to sign a contract immediately, consider getting another estimate. UF/IFAS recommends comparing several companies before making a decision.
Choose Florida-Friendly Practices
Ask if the company follows Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles. These practices help:
- Save water
- Reduce fertilizer waste
- Protect rivers, bays, and springs
- Reduce unnecessary pesticide use
- Improve plant health
A Florida-Friendly landscape is better for your yard and Florida’s environment.
Beware of Red Flags
Be cautious if a company:
- Cannot provide proof of licenses or insurance.
- Recommends spraying pesticides without first identifying the problem.
- Promises every insect or weed can be eliminated.
- Wants payment before work begins.
- Cannot explain why a treatment is needed.
Professional recommendations should always be based on an inspection of your property—not just a quick guess.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right lawn and landscape professional takes a little time, but it is worth the effort. Look for someone who is properly licensed, insured, well-trained, and willing to answer your questions. Companies that follow UF/IFAS recommendations and FDACS regulations help protect your investment while keeping Florida’s natural resources healthy for future generations.
For more information, contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Office or visit the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program for homeowner resources and hiring checklists.
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