Full-Service Residential Landscape Contractor: 10 Powerful Reasons to Hire in 2024

Transform Your Outdoor Space with Expert Hands

A full-service residential landscape contractor provides comprehensive outdoor design, installation, and maintenance solutions for homeowners seeking to improve their property’s beauty, functionality, and value.

What is a full-service residential landscape contractor?
– A professional who handles all aspects of residential landscaping from design to maintenance
– Services typically include design, installation, planting, hardscaping, irrigation, lighting, and ongoing care
– Manages permits, HOA approvals, and regulatory compliance
– Provides one point of contact for all your outdoor space needs
– Offers specialized expertise in both softscape (plants) and hardscape (structures) elements

Looking to improve your home’s curb appeal, create an outdoor living space, or solve persistent yard problems? A full-service landscape contractor brings together design vision, installation expertise, and maintenance know-how under one roof, eliminating the need to coordinate between multiple specialists.

Professional landscaping isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a solid investment. Research shows that well-designed landscapes can increase your property’s value by up to 14%, with mature trees alone boosting values by up to 5%. Beyond financial returns, a thoughtfully designed outdoor space extends your living area and creates a personal retreat right outside your door.

I’m Steve Schumacher, owner-operator of Boston Landscape Co since 1991, and I’ve spent over three decades helping homeowners transform their properties through comprehensive full-service residential landscape contractor solutions custom to New England’s unique climate and architectural styles.

What Does a Full-Service Residential Landscape Contractor Provide?

When you partner with a full-service residential landscape contractor like Boston Landscape Co., you’re getting much more than someone who mows lawns. You’re gaining a dedicated outdoor space partner who handles every aspect of your landscape from dream to reality—and keeps it looking beautiful for years to come.

Think of us as the conductors of your outdoor symphony, coordinating all the moving parts that create a harmonious landscape. We handle everything: planting vibrant gardens, building stunning stone patios, installing efficient irrigation systems, creating dramatic lighting plans, solving drainage headaches, navigating permit paperwork, and even dealing with those tricky HOA approvals (so you don’t have to!).

The beauty of working with a full-service residential landscape contractor is the seamless integration of all these elements. Instead of juggling multiple companies and hoping they’ll communicate effectively, you have one dedicated team overseeing your entire project. This means no details fall through the cracks, and your outdoor vision comes to life exactly as you imagined it.

Our design-build approach means we’re with you from the initial concept sketches through the final walkthrough of your completed landscape. This one-stop-shop approach saves you time, reduces headaches, and ensures a cohesive result that improves both your property value and your daily enjoyment of your home.

Curious about our full range of services? Explore our Residential Landscaping Services for a complete overview.

Softscape vs. Hardscape Synergy

The magic of a truly spectacular landscape happens when softscape and hardscape elements work together in perfect harmony.

Your softscape includes all the living elements—the colorful flower beds that change with the seasons, the privacy-creating shrubs that frame your yard, the shade trees that cool your patio on hot summer days, and the lush green turf where family memories are made. These elements bring life, movement, and ever-changing beauty to your outdoor spaces.

Meanwhile, your hardscape provides structure and functionality—neat stone patios where you’ll host summer barbecues, winding walkways that guide visitors through your garden, retaining walls that transform sloped yards into usable space, and dramatic stone steps that connect different areas of your landscape. These permanent elements create the framework that supports your outdoor lifestyle.

As full-service residential landscape contractors, we excel at balancing these elements to create spaces that are both stunning and practical. We might pair a natural stone patio with soft plantings that spill over its edges, or design a formal garden with structured walkways that create visual rhythm. It’s this thoughtful integration that lifts ordinary yards into extraordinary landscapes.

For inspiration on how we can blend softscape and hardscape elements in your unique space, check out our Landscape Design Services.

The Maintenance Side of a Full-Service Residential Landscape Contractor

Creating your dream landscape is just the beginning of our relationship. As full-service residential landscape contractors, we’re equally passionate about keeping your outdoor spaces looking their best through every New England season.

When spring arrives, our teams jump into action with thorough cleanups that clear away winter debris and prepare your landscape for new growth. We’ll dethatch and aerate lawns, apply early-season fertilizers, prune trees and shrubs, refresh mulch beds, and ensure your irrigation system is ready for the growing season.

Summer brings regular mowing scheduled for optimal grass health, not just convenience. We’ll monitor for pests and diseases, make irrigation adjustments based on weather patterns, and keep those flowerbeds looking their best through strategic deadheading and care.

Fall maintenance includes thorough leaf removal (preventing the lawn damage that comes from neglect), final mowing at the perfect height for winter, fall fertilization to strengthen root systems, and winterizing irrigation systems before the first freeze.

Even winter doesn’t stop our care, as we provide snow management services to keep your property safe and accessible while protecting sensitive landscape elements from harsh conditions.

The advantage of maintenance through your full-service residential landscape contractor is consistency and deep knowledge of your property. Our teams know the specific needs of your plants, the quirks of your irrigation system, and the original design intent—ensuring your landscape matures beautifully rather than becoming overgrown or neglected.

Ready to experience truly professional landscape maintenance? Learn more about our Professional Lawn Care Services and how we can keep your landscape looking its best year-round.

From Idea to Installed Oasis: The Project Journey

Working with a full-service residential landscape contractor means starting on a journey that transforms your outdoor dreams into reality. At Boston Landscape Co., we’ve refined this process over decades to ensure your experience is as enjoyable as the final result.

Step 1 – On-Site Consultation & Vision Mapping

Every beautiful landscape begins with a conversation at your property. This first meeting is where magic starts to happen.

We’ll walk your yard together, taking in the natural features and challenges while you share your dreams. I love hearing clients describe how they imagine using their outdoor spaces—whether it’s hosting summer barbecues, creating a peaceful reading nook, or finally solving that muddy corner where nothing seems to grow.

During this visit, we capture everything needed to move forward: measurements, photos, soil samples, and most importantly, your personal wish list. We’ll discuss your lifestyle needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget expectations in a relaxed, no-pressure conversation.

A client from Winchester recently told me, “Steve actually listened instead of just trying to sell me a cookie-cutter design. He asked questions about how our family uses the yard that made me realize he truly cared about creating something perfect for us.”

This initial meeting typically takes 60-90 minutes, giving us plenty of time to explore possibilities while respecting your schedule. By the end, we’ll have a shared vision of what success looks like for your unique property.

Step 2 – Collaborative Design & Budget Alignment

With your vision captured, our design team gets to work creating a plan that balances beauty, functionality, and value. This isn’t about imposing our ideas—it’s a collaborative process where your feedback shapes every decision.

We’ll present concept plans showing the layout of your new landscape, often including 3D renderings that help you visualize the finished space. There’s something special about seeing your future patio or garden come to life in these preliminary designs.

During our design presentation, we’ll bring sample materials you can touch and see—the actual pavers for your walkway, stone options for your retaining wall, and photos of plants in various seasons. These tangible elements help you make confident choices.

Budget discussions are straightforward and transparent. If your dream landscape exceeds your current budget, we’ll suggest thoughtful phasing options that allow you to build your outdoor oasis in stages without compromising the overall vision.

Our designers consider everything from how sunlight moves across your property to the mature size of plants, ensuring your landscape looks beautiful today and for years to come. We think about traffic patterns, maintenance requirements, and even how you’ll use the space in different seasons—because New England weather demands versatile outdoor spaces!

Step 3 – Construction, Inspection & Hand-Off

When design meets your approval, our installation team brings it to life with precision and care. Unlike some contractors who might disappear once work begins, we maintain clear communication throughout construction.

The installation follows a carefully orchestrated sequence starting with site preparation and grading. We then install the “bones” of your landscape—irrigation systems, lighting infrastructure, and drainage solutions that protect your investment. Next come the hardscape elements like patios and walls, followed by soil preparation and planting. Finally, we add the finishing touches that make your landscape complete.

Throughout this process, our project managers provide regular updates and welcome your questions. We understand that having construction at your home can be disruptive, so we work efficiently while maintaining the highest quality standards.

Upon completion, we’ll walk through your new landscape together, explaining care requirements and demonstrating features like your irrigation system. You’ll receive a personalized care manual and warranty information for both plants and hardscaping elements.

This final handoff isn’t goodbye—it’s the beginning of a relationship. Many of our clients continue with our maintenance services, ensuring their investment stays beautiful through all seasons.

As one Lexington homeowner shared, “From the first meeting to the final walkthrough, Boston Landscape made the process simple. The timeline they gave was realistic, and they actually stuck to it—something rare in home improvement projects!”

2024 Trends, Sustainability & Problem-Solving Solutions

The landscape industry continues to evolve, with new trends emerging that focus on sustainability, functionality, and solving common property challenges. As your full-service residential landscape contractor, we stay at the forefront of these developments to offer you the most current and effective solutions.

Outdoor Living Spaces That Extend Your Home

Remember when a concrete slab with a grill was considered an “outdoor living space”? Those days are long gone! Today’s homeowners are embracing fully-functional outdoor rooms that truly extend their living area beyond four walls.

We’re seeing tremendous enthusiasm for outdoor kitchens complete with built-in grills, countertops, and even refrigeration. These spaces aren’t just for cooking—they become social hubs where family and friends naturally gather. Pair this with a fire feature (whether a simple fire pit or an elaborate fireplace), and you’ve extended your outdoor season well into the cooler months.

Pergolas and pavilions have also surged in popularity, defining outdoor spaces while providing much-needed shade during hot summer days. Many homeowners are incorporating comfortable seating areas with weather-resistant furniture and built-in seating walls that double as landscape features.

“We never realized how much we’d use our backyard until Boston Landscape Co. transformed it,” shares a Winchester client. “What was once just a lawn we mowed is now where we eat dinner most nights from May through October.”

The investment makes financial sense too. Industry data shows homeowners typically recoup 80% or more on outdoor living improvements while immediately enhancing their quality of life. As your full-service residential landscape contractor, we design these spaces to complement your home’s architecture rather than appearing as disconnected afterthoughts.

Want to explore how an outdoor living space could transform your property? Visit our Hardscape Installation Company page for inspiration and examples.

Eco-Friendly Upgrades That Save Water & Money

Gone are the days when “sustainable landscaping” meant a yard full of rocks and cacti (not that those would thrive in New England anyway!). Today’s eco-friendly approaches actually create more beautiful, lower-maintenance landscapes while reducing your environmental footprint and monthly bills.

Smart irrigation systems have revolutionized how we water landscapes. These intelligent controllers adjust watering schedules based on actual weather conditions, reducing water usage by 30-50% compared to traditional timers. Combine this with drip irrigation that delivers moisture directly to plant roots, and you’ve dramatically cut water waste.

Native plants are having their well-deserved moment in the spotlight. These species evolved in New England’s climate and naturally require less supplemental water and care once established. A property featuring primarily native plants might need half the maintenance hours of a conventional landscape while providing better habitat for local birds and beneficial insects.

One of our favorite sustainable solutions is the rain garden—a beautiful landscape feature that captures stormwater runoff while filtering pollutants. Similarly, permeable paving allows water to infiltrate rather than run off, reducing erosion and pollution in local waterways.

“Since implementing the water-wise landscape plan from Boston Landscape Co., our summer water bill has decreased by nearly a third,” reports a Medford homeowner, “and surprisingly, our garden looks more lush and vibrant than ever.”

These approaches solve common landscape headaches too. Persistent drainage issues can be redirected through bioswales and rain gardens. Troublesome slopes benefit from erosion control using appropriate plantings and hardscape solutions. And properties needing privacy can gain natural screens with strategic evergreen plantings that require minimal maintenance.

Looking to make your landscape more sustainable? Our Irrigation System services incorporate the latest water-saving technologies, and our design team specializes in creating beautiful landscapes using native plants. Scientific research consistently shows that gardening provides significant health benefits, making these eco-friendly improvements good for both the planet and your wellbeing.

For those interested in learning more about the benefits of using native plants in your landscape, this overview of native plant landscaping provides excellent background information.

At Boston Landscape Co., we believe beautiful landscapes and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. As your full-service residential landscape contractor, we’re committed to creating outdoor spaces that look stunning today and remain sustainable for generations to come.

Dollars & Sense: Budget, ROI & Choosing Your Contractor

Investing in your landscape is a significant decision that impacts both your daily life and your property’s value. Understanding the financial aspects of working with a full-service residential landscape contractor helps you make informed choices that deliver the best return on investment.

Average Pricing & ROI Snapshot*

When homeowners ask me about costs, I always emphasize that landscape projects are as unique as the homes they surround. Your property’s size, existing conditions, and design dreams all influence the final investment.

For design services, you might invest anywhere from $2,000 for a straightforward consultation with basic planning to $15,000 for comprehensive designs with detailed renderings and planting plans. These professional designs are worth their weight in gold—they prevent costly mistakes and ensure your vision becomes reality.

Installation costs typically range from $8,000 for a modest front yard refresh to $75,000+ for complete backyard changes. Outdoor living spaces with kitchens and fire features often start around $50,000 and can reach $150,000+ for truly luxurious outdoor retreats. Specialty elements like water features or comprehensive lighting systems generally fall between $7,500 and $30,000+.

Maintaining your landscape’s beauty requires ongoing care. Basic lawn services might run $300-$600 monthly during the growing season, while comprehensive property care packages range from $600 to $1,200+ monthly. Seasonal services like spring and fall cleanups typically cost between $800 and $2,500 per service.

*These figures represent average costs based on publicly available internet data; actual pricing varies widely by scope, materials, and site conditions. Boston Landscape Co. provides detailed, customized quotes based on your specific project requirements.

The good news? Professional landscaping consistently delivers strong returns. Overall landscape improvements typically increase home values by 5.5-12.7%, while mature trees can add up to 5% in value. Outdoor living spaces often return 80% or more at resale. Beyond pure dollars, strategic tree placement can reduce cooling costs by up to 25%.

And let’s not forget the daily joy of stepping into your personal outdoor retreat—a value that spreadsheets simply can’t capture.

How to Select Your Yard’s Best Friend

Finding the right full-service residential landscape contractor is a bit like finding a good family doctor—you want someone trustworthy, skilled, and easy to talk with. Here’s how to make that perfect match:

Start with credentials and experience. Look for proper licensing and insurance (both liability and workers’ compensation)—this protects you and the workers on your property. Industry certifications like Certified Landscape Professional or ISA Certified Arborist indicate a commitment to professional standards. Experience matters too—a contractor with years in the business has likely encountered and solved challenges similar to yours.

Next, examine their portfolio and references. Before-and-after photos reveal a contractor’s ability to create meaningful change. Don’t be shy about asking for client references—reputable companies are proud to connect you with satisfied customers. Online reviews offer additional perspectives on reliability and quality.

Pay attention to communication and process. Clear, detailed proposals without hidden costs show respect for your budget. Responsiveness to questions indicates how you’ll be treated throughout your project. Look for structured processes from design through installation and written warranties that protect your investment.

Finally, consider company values. Do they demonstrate commitment to quality craftsmanship? Do they accept sustainable practices? Is their staff professionally trained? Do they show respect for your property during the construction process?

At Boston Landscape Co., we welcome these inquiries and encourage potential clients to thoroughly evaluate our qualifications. Our 30+ years of experience serving the Greater Boston area, portfolio of successful projects, and long-term client relationships speak to our commitment to excellence as a full-service residential landscape contractor.

Frequently Asked Questions about Full-Service Residential Landscape Contractor

Q1: How long does a typical mid-size landscape project take from start to finish?

For a mid-size project covering 1,000-2,000 square feet, you’re typically looking at a 6-12 week timeline. The planning and design phase usually takes 2-4 weeks as we refine your vision. If permits are required (which we handle for you), add another 2-6 weeks. Pre-installation preparation takes 1-2 weeks, and the actual construction and installation spans 3-6 weeks depending on complexity. Weather can sometimes extend these timeframes, but we provide detailed schedules during the proposal phase so you know exactly what to expect.

Q2: Can professional landscaping really lower my water bill?

Absolutely! I’ve seen clients reduce their summer water use by 30-50% after implementing our water-wise designs. Smart irrigation with weather-based controllers adjusts watering based on actual conditions rather than arbitrary schedules. Drip irrigation delivers water directly to root zones, eliminating wasteful overspray. Native and drought-tolerant plants simply need less water to thrive. Proper mulching reduces evaporation, while strategic hydrozoning groups plants with similar water needs together. These approaches not only save water but create healthier, more resilient landscapes.

Q3: Will the contractor handle permits and HOA approvals?

As a full-service residential landscape contractor, we handle all the paperwork headaches for you. We research local requirements, prepare and submit permit applications, coordinate with HOA architectural review boards, schedule required inspections, and ensure compliance with all regulations. This removes a significant burden from homeowners and ensures that all work is properly permitted and approved. You can relax knowing the technical details are in experienced hands.

Q4: How do I maintain my new landscape after installation?

We don’t just build beautiful landscapes—we help you keep them that way. After installation, we provide detailed care instructions custom to your specific landscape, including watering schedules, fertilization needs, and pruning guidelines. Many clients choose to continue with our maintenance services to ensure their landscape thrives. Our maintenance programs can be customized to your property’s specific needs and your desired level of personal involvement. Think of it as having a landscape coach who ensures your outdoor investment continues to appreciate.

Q5: What happens if plants don’t survive after installation?

At Boston Landscape Co., we stand behind our work with plant warranties (typically one year for proper installation and plant health). If plants fail due to improper installation or defects, we replace them at no cost. We’re also passionate about education—we help you understand the proper care needed to keep your landscape thriving beyond the warranty period. Our goal is for you to be successful with your landscape for years to come.

Conclusion

Your outdoor space holds untapped potential – not just as property, but as an extension of your home and lifestyle. Working with a full-service residential landscape contractor doesn’t simply change how your yard looks; it transforms how you live.

Think about those persistent problems you’ve been dealing with – maybe it’s that soggy spot that never dries, the lack of privacy from neighbors, or just an uninspiring view from your kitchen window. These aren’t just annoyances – they’re missed opportunities for enjoyment. At Boston Landscape Co., we’ve spent over three decades helping homeowners throughout Greater Boston turn these challenges into beautiful, functional spaces that improve daily life.

The real magic happens when you see your property through fresh eyes. That sloped area that was impossible to mow? It becomes a terraced garden with native plants that attract butterflies. The patchy lawn where the kids play? Transformed into a durable, lush carpet of green that stands up to foot traffic while looking magazine-worthy. The hot, exposed patio? Now a shaded retreat with a pergola and comfortable seating where you actually want to spend time.

Our comprehensive approach means you don’t have to become an expert in plants, hardscaping, drainage, or lighting – that’s our job. From the initial design conversation through the final walkthrough and beyond to seasonal maintenance, we handle every detail with the care and expertise that comes from decades of experience in New England’s unique climate and conditions.

We’re proud to serve homeowners throughout Bedford, Billerica, Burlington, Carlisle, Concord, Lexington, Malden, Medford, Reading, Somerville, Stoneham, Waltham, Wellesley, Winchester, and Woburn. Each property tells a different story, and we’re honored to help write the next chapter of yours.

Unlike many home improvements that start depreciating immediately, professional landscaping actually appreciates over time. As trees grow taller, shrubs fill out, and perennial gardens mature, your outdoor space becomes more valuable and more beautiful with each passing season. Even hardscaping elements like stone walls and patios develop a natural patina that adds character and charm.

The journey to your dream landscape begins with a simple conversation. We’d love to walk your property, listen to your ideas, and share our thoughts on how to make the most of your outdoor space. Whether you’re looking for a complete change or targeted improvements to address specific issues, we’re here to be your yard’s best friend for years to come.

Ready to see what’s possible? Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and take the first step toward the landscape you’ve always wanted – one that reflects your personal style, meets your practical needs, and brings you joy every time you look out the window.