How to Start a Landscaping or Lawn Care Business in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide & Checklist

Want to use your green thumbs to start a landscaping business? Our step-by-step guide to starting a landscaping or lawn care business provides you with everything you need to know, from understanding the different types of services you can offer to effectively managing clients and securing your first job. 

Plus, don’t miss our free checklist for launching a landscaping business at the end of this guide. 

Table of Contents
Business at a Glance
Earning Potential

The average annual wage for landscapers in 2023 was $37,690USD per year or $18.12USD per hour.

Startup Costs

$700 to $30,000

Training & Skills Required
  • Horticultural Knowledge
  • Design Skills
  • Physical Stamina and Dexterity
  • Business Management Skills
  • Communication and Customer Service Skills
Demand

High

Employment of landscapers is expected to grow by 5% from 2023 to 2033.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most profitable landscaping business?

The most profitable services for a landscaping business often include landscape design and installation, as these projects typically yield higher profit margins. Additionally, offering maintenance contracts for commercial properties can provide consistent income throughout the year. Specialized services such as hardscaping, irrigation installation, and sustainable landscaping also tend to attract clients willing to pay a premium for quality and expertise.

What are the cons of owning a landscaping business?

Owning a landscaping business can be physically demanding, requiring long hours spent outdoors in various weather conditions. Additionally, the business may face seasonal fluctuations, leading to inconsistent income during off-peak months. Managing client expectations, competition, and regulatory compliance can also pose challenges that require attention and effective strategies to overcome.

How do I start a landscaping business plan?

To start a landscaping business plan, begin by outlining your business goals, target market, and the specific services you will offer. Conduct market research to analyze competitors and identify opportunities in your area. Include financial projections, pricing strategies, and a marketing plan to guide your business operations and growth.

Is landscaping or lawn care a good side hustle?

Landscaping or lawn care can be an excellent side hustle due to its flexibility and demand in residential areas. It allows individuals to work on weekends or evenings, making it suitable for those with full-time jobs. With relatively low startup costs, it’s a viable option for generating extra income while developing skills that could lead to a full-time business in the future.

How do you start a landscaping business in Florida/California/my state?

To start a landscaping business in Florida, California, or any state, begin by researching local regulations and requirements for business licenses and permits specific to your area. Next, create a detailed business plan that outlines your services, target market, and financial projections. After that, register your business, obtain the necessary licenses, and invest in essential equipment. Finally, implement a marketing strategy to attract clients and establish your online presence to grow your business effectively. If you're looking to start a landscaping business in a specific state, our State Guides can help.

What is the most profitable landscaping business?

The most profitable services for a landscaping business often include landscape design and installation, as these projects typically yield higher profit margins. Additionally, offering maintenance contracts for commercial properties can provide consistent income throughout the year. Specialized services such as hardscaping, irrigation installation, and sustainable landscaping also tend to attract clients willing to pay a premium for quality and expertise.

What are the cons of owning a landscaping business?

Owning a landscaping business can be physically demanding, requiring long hours spent outdoors in various weather conditions. Additionally, the business may face seasonal fluctuations, leading to inconsistent income during off-peak months. Managing client expectations, competition, and regulatory compliance can also pose challenges that require attention and effective strategies to overcome.

How do I start a landscaping business plan?

To start a landscaping business plan, begin by outlining your business goals, target market, and the specific services you will offer. Conduct market research to analyze competitors and identify opportunities in your area. Include financial projections, pricing strategies, and a marketing plan to guide your business operations and growth.

Is landscaping or lawn care a good side hustle?

Landscaping or lawn care can be an excellent side hustle due to its flexibility and demand in residential areas. It allows individuals to work on weekends or evenings, making it suitable for those with full-time jobs. With relatively low startup costs, it’s a viable option for generating extra income while developing skills that could lead to a full-time business in the future.

How do you start a landscaping business in Florida/California/my state?

To start a landscaping business in Florida, California, or any state, begin by researching local regulations and requirements for business licenses and permits specific to your area. Next, create a detailed business plan that outlines your services, target market, and financial projections. After that, register your business, obtain the necessary licenses, and invest in essential equipment. Finally, implement a marketing strategy to attract clients and establish your online presence to grow your business effectively. If you're looking to start a landscaping business in a specific state, our State Guides can help.

Durable logo
Ready to see what AI can do for your business?
Generate and customize your business website, start attracting leads, and send invoices free.
Generate your site
Generate your website
Custom components
CTA
Heading
This is some text inside of a div block.