A well-designed and properly maintained landscape makes a property more aesthetically appealing and useful for its owners. According to IBISWorld, the United States has 621,733 businesses that provide lawn maintenance and landscaping services. That means there are a lot of landscaping companies and contractors from which to choose when you want to revise your property's landscaping and maintain it afterward. Here are four questions you should ask a landscaping contractor when looking for a good one.

1. How Long Have You Been in Business?

The best local landscaping contractors should have experience working with various properties. The more experienced a contractor is, the more likely they provide high-quality work that satisfies their customers. You should ask for work samples, such as digital photos of impressive landscaping construction projects the contractor has installed for other clients. The contractor might have a list of public properties you can visit and see in person as well.

2. What Types of Landscaping Services Are Available?

Different contractors might offer multiple landscaping services, such as design, construction, and maintenance. You should ask about the range of services available and if the contractor can produce an architectural design that reflects your vision for the property. You also should ask about irrigation and if the contractor can install and maintain an irrigation system if you want one for your property. The more services a contractor can provide, the more you can control the process and communicate more effectively with one contractor instead of several.

3. Where Do You Source Plants and Materials?

The best way to ensure your landscape can thrive is by using locally sourced plants and materials. Plants that are native to where you live have the best chance to grow and stay healthy while contributing to your property's landscaping design. It also helps to use locally sourced hardscaping materials, like stone, gravel, or tile, that don't require shipping from far away and add to the cost of installing your landscape. You save money while supporting your local economy.

4. Do You Provide Maintenance Services?

All landscaping projects require maintenance after they are installed. A landscaping contractor should be able to maintain a property to keep it in the best possible condition. When the contractor also designed and installed it, that contractor should have a better idea of how to effectively maintain the property.

As you can see, asking landscaping contractors questions about their process will help you gain an understanding of the services you are requesting. If you need landscaping services, don't hesitate to contact JM Landscaping LLC. We cannot wait to assist you.