landscape architecture business plan

How to Start a Landscape Design Business

Like landscaping, landscape architecture is a seasonal business; however, there is an important different between the two. Most landscapers provide clients with basic lawn services that help keep the property well-groomed. On the other hand, landscape architects are primarily concered with the design and layout of a lawn, such as where to place ponds, flower-beds, patios, and stone walkways. A good landscape architect can dramatically increase the value of a property.

Ready to turn your business idea into a reality? We recommend forming an LLC as it is the most affordable way to protect your personal assets. You can do this yourself or with our trusted partner for a small fee. Northwest ($29 + State Fees) DIY: How to Start an LLC

Start a landscape design business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Landscape Design Business
• Form your Landscape Design Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your Landscape Design Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Landscape Design Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Landscape Design Business
• Get Landscape Design Business Insurance
• Define your Landscape Design Business Brand
• Create your Landscape Design Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your landscape design business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Landscape Design Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Find a Domain Now

Powered by godaddy.com, what are the costs involved in opening a landscape design business.

Costs to start a small to medium-sized landscape design business vary. However, in general, you will spend between $5,000 and $10,000 on startup costs. Most of the money goes towards a high-end computer and design software. Starting out, you will also spend a significant amount of money on advertising in your local community.

What are the ongoing expenses for a landscape design business?

Ongoing costs for the design business are minimal. You'll cover utilities and a new computer every few years.

There are also ongoing costs for design software upgrades.

Ongoing expenses for landscaping include maintenance of tools, upkeep of the office and store, and office supplies. Expect to pay between $5,000 and $10,000 per month for maintenance and recurring expenses in a mid-sized company. For a small company, your ongoing costs may only be a few hundred to $1,000 per month.

Who is the target market?

Preferred clients are corporate clients or customers who have signed seasonal or “evergreen” contracts. Large revenue projects are ideal. Bad clients are typically those that do not have the budget for ongoing landscaping work, those who want piecemeal projects with a high overhead, and those with accounts that have extended Net payment terms. An extended net payment term such as "Net-60" means that the client has up to 60 days after completion of the job to pay you for your services.

Landscape architects typically work with medium to larger companies. However, many designers start out with homeowners and small businesses.

How does a landscape design business make money?

They make most of their money by charging clients for design projects. These projects can be charged at either a flat rate or a per hour rate.

Landscape designers and architects charge by the hour or per project. To simple design for a residential home may cost, on average, $4,000 to $5,000. On a per-hour basis, you should charge clients between $50 and $150 per hour.

If your design company also does construction and maintenance, there are usually 2 rates for landscaping: the maintenance rate and the construction rate.

Maintenance rate is for basic lawn and grounds maintenance. Construction rate is for constructing lawn features, small structures, and building patios or laying brick and stone.

A good maintenance rate is $44.13 per man hour.

Construction rate for residential should be set at $54 per man hour or at least 20% higher than the maintenance rate.

Corporate rates should be set at least 20% to 25% higher for both maintenance and construction.

How much profit can a landscape design business make?

Design can be a high-profit business, but it all depends on the client and how tight your contracts are. Some clients routinely go out of scope and end up costing the business more money than the initial project quote.

Profit should be priced in at at least 10% of cost (minimum), for both the design and the construction businesses. Some companies operate at a 15% margin, but this is rare, especially for a smaller company.

How can you make your business more profitable?

You can make your business more profitable by narrowing your scope of operations towards a background of limited space and teaching landscaping principles to individuals or companies who have their own on-site maintenance team.

You could also offer additional services, bring in a professional master mason who can lay stone, or a bricklayer to lay brick. Partner with a master carpenter and offer custom woodworking and lawn features.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

One crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked when starting your landscape design business is the importance of establishing a solid business foundation. While sole proprietorships and partnerships are the most common entity types for small businesses, they're a far less stable and advantageous option than LLCs.

This is because unincorporated business structures (i.e., sole proprietorships and partnerships) expose you as an owner to personal liability for your business's debts and legal actions, while LLCs protect you by keeping your personal assets separate from your business's liabilities.

In practice, this means that if your landscape design business were to face a lawsuit or incur any debts, your savings, home, and other personal assets could not be used to cover these costs. On top of this, forming your business as an LLC also helps it to appear more legitimate and trustworthy.

More than 84% of our readers opt to collaborate with a professional LLC formation service to kickstart their venture. We've negotiated a tailored discount for our readers, bringing the total down to just $29.

Form Your LLC Now

Note: If you're interested in more information before getting started, we recommend having a look at our state-specific How to Start an LLC guide (DIY) or our in-depth Best LLC Services review (for those opting for a professional service).

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a landscape architecture firm. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits.

In addition, certain local licensing or regulatory requirements may apply. For more information about local licenses and permits:

• Check with your town, city or county clerk’s office
• Get assistance from one of the local associations listed in US Small Business Associations directory of local business resources .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Service Agreement

Landscape architect businesses should consider requiring clients to sign a service agreement before starting a new project. This agreement should clarify client expectations and minimize risk of legal disputes by setting out payment terms and conditions, service level expectations, and intellectual property ownership. Here is an example service agreement.

Recommended: Rocket Lawyer makes it easy to create a professional service agreement for your landscape architect business when you sign up for their premium membership. For $39.95 per month, members receive access to hundreds of legal agreements and on call attorneys to get complimentary legal advice.

OSHA Regulations

Because landscapers may interact with harmful chemicals such as pesticides and insecticides, it is important to reference to OSHA’s (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) rules and general standards for chemicals:

• Standard 1910.1200 states that employees be adequately informed of all potential hazards when working with chemicals
• Standard 1910.132 states that the necessary personal protection equipment be provided to the employee working with chemicals, such as safety glasses, a face mask and suitable gloves

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Landscape Design Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Landscape Design Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a landscape design business

The easiest way to start this business is to go to networking events and hand out business cards. If you've started with another design firm, you might be able to pick up strategies the company has used to maintain its client base.

Direct mail also works well, but it is better for corporate accounts. Get a list of names of companies that have used design services in the past and offer them more value for the same price.

How to keep customers coming back

To differentiate yourself from the rest of the companies in your area, consider specializing. Every market is different and has unique needs. For example, large corporations often have a certain look they're going after when designing outside spaces. Residential neighborhoods, which cater to Home Owners Associations, will want a different look and feel to their grounds.

If you become familiar with a single market, you are more likely to succeed in that market because you'll understand their unique needs and wants on a deeper level than a company that tries to be a generalist.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

This is very much a hands-on business. Business owners who start a landscape architect business should be very good with math and comfortable working around computers. A lot of the designer's job is spent at a desk. However, many architects make it out into the field with the contractors and so they must be comfortable working with their hands and getting dirty.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a landscape design business?

Day-to-day activities of the business include a variety of tasks. Client intake forms, invoicing, and meeting with new clients are a given, but the business must also coordinate with contractors, monitor its supplies carefully, and keep clients updated about the project.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful landscape design business?

At minimum, you will need a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture. Master's degrees are available too. In addition to education, you will want to start as an apprentice to get a feel for the industry and how it works. Becoming a Landscape Gardener apprentice will teach you about the construction and landscaping side of the business, but is not necessary to do design work.

Apprenticeships usually take several years to complete. You can also take school-based apprenticeships.

To work as a landscape engineer, you must be comfortable working indoors in front of a computer all day.

If you decide to work with the construction crew, you will be outdoors in all types of weather conditions. You must be physically fit, able to lift heavy loads, and able to do manual labor for at least 6 to 8 hours per day. You must be able to work flexible hours and work in a team environment.

What is the growth potential for a landscape design business?

Small landscape design firms can be operated as "one man" operations but there's no reason a business owner could not hire an entire team of designers and contractors, turning it into a comprehensive design and construction company.

In fact, larger companies are typically full-service landscapers who also design and build custom lawn features as well as maintain properties.

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Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a landscape design business?

Landscape design businesses depend largely on their reputation. Also, because the business is inherently seasonal, businesses that survive are those that secure “evergreen” contracts. Cash flow management is important. You will have to manage the company’s funds to stay afloat during the off-season when work is light or non-existent.

How and when to build a team

Hire help as soon as you can. The design side of this business requires you work long hours. The construction aspect of this business is very labor intensive. So you’ll need all the help you can get. Ideally, you’ll start with a team of at least 3 to 5 people. Larger companies can employ 10, 20, or more employees.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• General Landscaping Franchise

Real World Examples

• General Landscaping company LLC page

Further Reading

• Advice for incoming landscapers
• Starting advice for a general Landscaping business

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

Landscape Architect Business Plan Template

• Great for beginners
• Ready-to-use, fully customizable Subcategory
• Get started in seconds

Starting a landscape architecture business can be a daunting task, from envisioning stunning outdoor spaces to managing the nitty-gritty of finances and operations. ClickUp's Landscape Architect Business Plan Template is the ultimate companion for aspiring architects and existing firms alike!

With this template, you can:

• Define clear goals and strategies for your landscape architecture business
• Create detailed financial projections to secure funding and drive growth
• Develop marketing strategies to attract and retain clients
• Streamline operational plans for efficient project management

Ready to transform your vision into a thriving landscape architecture business? Dive into ClickUp's template today!

Landscape Architect Business Plan Template Benefits

Main elements of landscape architect business plan template.

To help aspiring landscape architects or existing firms outline their business goals, financial projections, and marketing strategies, ClickUp's Landscape Architect Business Plan template offers:

• Custom Statuses: Track progress with statuses like Complete, In Progress, Needs Revision, and To Do to ensure every aspect of the business plan is accounted for
• Custom Fields: Utilize custom fields like Reference, Approved, and Section to add detailed information and categorize different sections of the business plan for easy reference
• Custom Views: Access 5 different views such as Topics, Status, Timeline, Business Plan, and Getting Started Guide to organize and visualize the various components of the landscape architect business plan
• Project Management: Enhance business plan creation with tools like recurring tasks, dashboards, milestones, and Automations for increased efficiency and collaboration.

How To Use Landscape Architect Business Plan Template

Creating a comprehensive landscape architect business plan is crucial for setting a clear path to success. Follow these steps to effectively utilize the Landscape Architect Business Plan Template in ClickUp:

1. Define your business vision and mission

Before diving into the details, it's essential to establish a strong foundation by defining your business's vision and mission. What do you aim to achieve as a landscape architect? What values do you want to embody in your services?

Utilize a Doc in ClickUp to outline your business's vision and mission statement clearly.

2. Identify your target market and competition

Understanding your target market and competition is key to developing a successful business plan. Research your potential clients, competitors, and industry trends to identify gaps and opportunities in the market.

Use Gantt chart in ClickUp to create a timeline for conducting market research and competitor analysis.

3. Develop your services and pricing strategy

Outline the services you plan to offer as a landscape architect and establish a pricing strategy that aligns with your value proposition. Consider factors such as your expertise, market demand, and competitive pricing.

Utilize custom fields in ClickUp to detail your services and pricing structure effectively.

4. Set financial goals and projections

Establish realistic financial goals for your landscape architect business and create projections for revenue, expenses, and profits. This step will help you track your financial performance and make informed decisions to ensure your business's growth and sustainability.

Use Goals in ClickUp to set specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) financial goals for your business.

By following these steps and leveraging ClickUp's Landscape Architect Business Plan Template, you can lay a solid foundation for your landscape architect business's success.

Get Started with ClickUp’s Landscape Architect Business Plan Template

Landscape architects and firms can utilize the Landscape Architect Business Plan Template in ClickUp to streamline their business planning process and set themselves up for success.

To get started, follow these steps:

Begin by clicking on “Add Template” to incorporate the Landscape Architect Business Plan Template into your ClickUp Workspace. Ensure you select the appropriate Space or location for this template.

Next, invite key team members or stakeholders to collaborate on the business plan within your Workspace.

Now, leverage the template's features to craft a comprehensive business plan:

• Utilize the Topics View to organize different sections of your business plan, such as goals, financials, and marketing strategies.
• Use the Status View to track progress on each section, categorizing them as Complete, In Progress, Needs Revision, or To Do.
• The Timeline View allows you to set deadlines and milestones for key business plan components.
• Navigate to the Business Plan View to compile all sections into a cohesive and professional document.
• Refer to the Getting Started Guide View for tips and best practices on creating an effective landscape architect business plan.

Customize your business plan template further by adding the custom fields Reference, Approved, and Section to provide additional context and information for each section.

By following these steps and utilizing the Landscape Architect Business Plan Template in ClickUp, you can create a robust and strategic plan to drive the success of your landscape architecture business.

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How to Start a Landscape Design Business: A Step-by-Step Guide to Success

Landscaping is one of homeowners' favorite hobbies. Why not? Looking at a well-arranged and maintained formation of flowers in full bloom, lush greens, and colorful stones is truly relaxing. The landscaping industry has a special place in the hearts of individuals who want to elevate their house or company gardens and yards. In the recent statistics, there is a visible growth in its market size, as per its current revenue of $130 billion. With property owners continuing to invest in excellent landscaping services, these figures are expected to increase every year. 

If you are planning to start a landscaping business, being familiar with the basic steps in planning and marketing will help you thrive in the highly competitive and profitable industry of landscaping. 

What is a landscaping business?

Landscaping is defined as the practice of planning, laying out, and construction of gardens to enhance an area's appearance and create a usable space for outdoor activities around a home. It is divided into three categories:

• Plants (addition of ornamental, edible, or other native types of plants)
• Terrains (changing land shape through grading, backfilling, mounding, terracing, etc.)
• Structures (constructing patio covers, fences, wall decks, planters, etc.)

How much do lawn & landscape professionals make?

The average annual pay for landscape professionals (landscape contractors, landscape designers) is between $33,000 to $73,000. 

Who is the main target market?

Beautiful projects of plants, flowers, and creative structures can change the overall appeal of residential and commercial structures. With this, there are four potential target client bases that you should focus your services on:

• Multi-family residential communities
• Hotels and resorts
• Malls, restaurants, and leisure centers
• Commercial office buildings

What are the requirements in starting a landscape design business?

Aside from your startup budget, you will also need to get a certification to work as a landscape designer. Landscaping is both an art and a science, so every project should be handled with utmost precision and ability. Read more to learn the necessary steps which can help you succeed in the industry. 

10 Proven Steps and Tips in Starting Your Own Landscape Company

1. create a smart business plan.

A comprehensive one, to be specific. Company owners fail when things don't go according to the plan. Worse, some entrepreneurs don't really put much effort into creating a business plan as a guide to their new venture. Business plans serve as a "bible" that you can refer to when challenges arise. A detailed landscape design company business plan is a vital element that should include the following details.

What You Offer

Your landscape business might sound like a "no-brainer" for customers, but if you are planning to take your expertise to the next level, you have to set things clear. What is the business' focus? Do you plan to sell lawn care and landscaping tools and equipment? Provide landscaping services? Design rock and botanical gardens?  Will you be working on residential or commercial properties? Stating this information will be crucial in setting the expectations of your potential clients.

Business Model

One of the main strategies of a profitable business is determining its business model. If you are planning to start a business in the lawncare & landscape industry, who is your main market? The Business to Business Model  is known for its stability as the result of continuous transactions between businesses, while the Business to Consumer Model is considered practical and cost-effective since goods and services are directly delivered to customers, thus, minimizing other costs.

To achieve business goals, every owner should have good financial capacity in funding the business. There are many types of costs  that you should focus on in starting your business, but the most common is the labor costs and material costs that business owners spend to properly give a service or deliver a specific product. Determining the necessary costs can help you set an adequate budget, monitor cash flow, and adjust business operations if needed. These are some of the costs that you should consider for your business:

• Service vehicle
• Office Supplies
• Office Space Rental
• Design materials and software

2. Come Up with a Business Name

Naming your business seems easy until you find out that there are hundreds of businesses running under the same name that you think would be perfect for your business. A unique name is very important to give your business a recognizable identity that stands out among other businesses in similar nature. Fictitious business names are created and registered to represent an existing business for legal purposes, so make sure to come up with a name that is not synonymous to other active businesses, most especially, in the same industry. Here are some key reminders in naming your landscape design business:

• Keep the name short and simple.
• Avoid names with complicated spellings.
• Use trends as references but make sure that it has a mass appeal.
• Consider word plays using your name.
• Never extract names from established brands.
• Prepare a short list and check landscaping company names online if there are similarities.

3. Form a Legal Entity

Now that you have already drafted a detailed business plan and a unique name, it's time for you to legalize your business. Legalizing your business entails corresponding obligations that you must follow. To form a legal entity, you need to specify the type of business structure that you want to register. A company can be any of the following business types:

Business consultants recommend LLC and corporation as legal business entities that protect owners from single and direct liability in case the company gets sued by customers or other businesses.

4. Secure a Business Permit 

Every business needs a state-issued permit to operate. In the US, permit requirements for businesses vary per state. The fees will also depend on your business activities and business location. U.S. Small Businesses Association (SBA) can give you the necessary information and list of requirements that you have to present or submit to get a business permit. Make sure that all the details that you will provide are correct and updated for the governing agencies to verify.

You will also have to be familiar with the tax obligations that businesses should follow, which brings us to the next important step. 

5. Register for Business Taxes

A successful landscape design business owner should be responsible for paying taxes. When a business starts to earn, the activities should benefit not just the employees and the customers, but the state as well. To register for taxes, an active and valid EIN is required. The Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a nine-digit number issued by the state to business entities. EIN is unique, and therefore, cannot be owned or used by many individuals. The amount of taxes   that you have to pay as a business owner and the payment methods and choices will be based on the type of structure that your business has.

6. Apply for Insurance

Insurance is a must, most especially, if you are providing landscaping services. Complex projects are prone to property damage issues and if you are determined to protect your business from legal obligations caused by accidents, sickness, or service-related complaints, getting a business insurance is a smart idea. Prospective clients may ask for proof of insurance before signing a deal with your company, so it will be beneficial for all parties to know the different types of insurance that can be availed when accidents or accusations of negligence arise during agreement.

Check the guide below for the most common types of insurance and learn about the specific conditions that they cover:

Set an appointment with an insurance agent and get familiar with more insurance policies that can benefit your business and your stakeholders. For the insurance cost, there are several factors that decide how much you need to pay for a specific policy. The type of landscaping services you offer, your business equipment and tools, size, and revenue, are the main factors that affect your insurance costs.

Contractors pay an average of $85 per month or $1,000 per year for professional liability insurance premiums.

7. Invest in Landscaping Certifications

While graduating with a degree in landscape architecture or graphic design could be helpful if you want to succeed in the landscaping and lawn care industry, it is not required. However, to gain the trust of your potential customers, a certification issued by industry organizations combined with experience in working with graphic designers, interior designers, or landscape architects will give you the competitive edge. Consider saving up to get a certification issued by the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP). They offer different types of certification which can be highly beneficial not just to aspiring landscape designers but to lawn care technicians and managers as well. Some states have stricter policies in providing landscaping services; licenses are required, so make sure to keep in touch with your local licensing agencies for clear details. 

If you want to take your skills and expertise to the next level, you may also venture into more advanced areas of landscaping like irrigation, snow and ice management, and arboriculture. Take note that the more advanced certification types may require proof or certification of completion in design schools or technical schools with courses related to landscaping. 

8. And Design Software as well...

For the design software, lawn care professionals and landscaping experts invest in specialized software to create complete landscape and garden designs. Here are some of the best-rated and most recommended design software for landscaping:

• Chief Architect Home Designer Software
• PRO Landscape

Check out the detailed review and comparison here.

9. Draft a Concise Service Agreement

When you are managing a business that involves services from different people, the best thing to do is to make sure that they will be working under fair conditions and will receive the proper amount of compensation. For additional services, both the designer and the client should also agree with the rates to be charged. (hourly rate, maintenance rate, construction rate, if applicable). This is especially applicable to businesses providing landscape services. A concise and direct service agreement should be made to act as a professional services contract that binds the two parties involved (service provider and client). The document should also state important details about the services to be provided, the corresponding fees, and the legal and financial liabilities of both parties in case of negligence, poor work quality, or job-related accidents and health risks.

To be considered legally binding, this document should include an agreement and consideration between parties broken down into the following parts:

• Intention of Legal Consequence
• Consideration

Below is a sample of a good service agreement between the landscape designer and the client:

10. Design a Marketing Plan

After securing all the legal documents and getting the best design software for your business, it's time for you to promote your company. To do this, you have to start with an interactive marketing plan and strategies that will entice potential customers to give your business a try.

Designing a marketing plan is easier if you already have a target market in mind. Having a fixed target market can help your business enjoy a stable income and continuous business activities. For example, your target market is the hospitality industry. Hotel and resort owners and managers invest in beautiful landscapes, so they hire special landscape professionals to work on those projects. You should also consider the proximity of your business location to your target market; if they need to travel for hours to avail your services, is it worth it?

A marketing plan will serve as your ultimate guide in creating the best marketing materials to introduce your business to prospective clients and generate future leads. You might opt for traditional marketing and advertising through print media through leaflets and business cards, or allocate a decent amount of budget for digital marketing like Pay Per Click Ads. Here are some of the best landscape marketing ideas that will amplify your business to reach wider market:

• SEO-optimized website
• Social media pages
• Email marketing
• Google My Business

Put emphasis on factors that make your business stand out, including quality service, quality products, affordable prices, budget-friendly service rates, experienced and trained landscape designers, etc. Listing your business on sites specializing in home improvement like HomeProsVerified.com can help you reach your target customers, keep in touch with them, and provide their landscaping needs. 

READ MORE:  How To Start A Lawn Care Business: The Step-by-step Guide You Need

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a typical landscape design cost.

A full landscape design will cost  $500 - $5000.   This rate is subject to change depending on the type of project, the designer's credentials, size of area, client preferences, and landscape style. Generally, landscape designs with native plants and wildlife cost higher. 

Is there a school for landscaping?

Yes. If you want to take your passion for landscaping into a productive garden design profession, there are schools offering degree programs in landscape architecture and other landscaping-related courses. In the US, the average tuition fee for landscape architecture and design is $30,372 for undergraduate programs and $27,407 for graduate programs.

How much does it cost to start a landscape design business?

Since the initial expenses for this type of business involve legal documents processing, business permits, marketing tools, and software, startup costs are also relatively low compared to other businesses. You can already build your own landscape design company with $15,000 or $20,000 if you are starting from scratch. 

Landscape design is a creative and profitable business that does not require too many business resources. With phenomenal skills and experience in related fields, you can achieve a reputable status in the landscaping industry. You may choose to get a higher competitive advantage by pursuing a degree in landscape architecture, or earn the trust of your prospective client base through a wide range of output and experience. Moreover, establishing connection and ensuring quality service to your customers will always play a vital role in your goal to attract more clients. 

When done right, your passion can turn into a valuable company that every home and business owner trusts. Get inspired by these most famous landscape architects and their designs and start planning for your own company. We will be rooting for you!

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Free Landscape Business Plan Template (+PDF Download)

Read Time 6 minutes

Author Stephanie Figy

Published February 21, 2023

Table of Contents

1. Executive summary

2. company overview, 3. landscaping services, 4. landscaping pricing, 5. market analysis.

• 6. Competitor analysis
• 7. Marketing plan and sales strategy

8. Management plan

9. financial plan, set up your landscaping business for success.

A landscape business plan is essential for securing bank loans, managing startup costs, and maintaining cash flow. Even the most seasoned landscape business owner needs a dynamic roadmap to guide operations and inform goal-setting.

Annually reviewing and adjusting your company’s business plan helps you to scale your landscape business strategically. 

This article describes what to include in a landscape business plan and provides a free landscape business plan template to get started. 

>> Download Aspire’s FREE landscape business plan template. 

The executive summary serves as a strategic snapshot of your landscape business plan. It should be compelling to capture the attention of potential partners and lenders. 

The executive summary briefly describes the new business, its mission, and its goals. Summarize the most critical aspects of the plan, such as:

Market opportunities

Services offered

Financial projections

If you’re applying for funding, specify the amount , how you intend to use it , and, more importantly, how it will increase your profit margins .

Even though the executive summary comes first in the plan, write it last to identify and highlight the most crucial elements of your plan, ensuring that it presents a well-rounded and compelling case for your landscape business.

The company overview is where you start to dig into the details of your landscaping or lawn maintenance business. It should include specifics, such as:

Landscaping business name

Business address

Phone number

Email address

Business website

In addition to the nuts and bolts, a company overview is where business owners state their mission statement , vision statement , and core values . This gives the reader a comprehensive understanding of the company’s business identity.

In this section, list your various landscaping services, such as routine lawn care services, landscape design, or mulch installation. For each service type, detail the: 

Potential profitability

Scalability

Industry relevance

Strategic importance

List any specialized equipment or certifications that enable you to perform unique services or differentiate you in the marketplace. Also, determine whether you plan to provide these services to homeowners, commercial clients, or both.

Some landscape companies in colder climates pivot to snow removal during the winter. If that’s a part of your business model, include the related services in this section. This demonstrates your capacity to diversify and sustain your business during off-peak seasons, contributing to overall revenue stability and client retention.

Next, outline your pricing strategy, including the pricing model or models your business uses, such as flat-rate , project-based , or hourly pricing. Note that pricing depends on factors like:

Market demand

Competition

You may also list prices from a few competitors to show where your business stands in the marketplace. Include how your pricing strategy positions your business, whether as a cost leader , a premium service provider , or a value-driven option .

Explain if your pricing strategy allows flexibility, such as offering package deals or customizing services based on client preferences. If applicable, discuss strategies to attract and retain clients, such as:

Discount programs

Seasonal promotions

Membership programs

Referral incentives 

Include a market analysis within your business plan to show potential investors and partners what the landscape industry looks like in your area, such as:

Market size

Growth trends

Opportunities

Identify market gaps, whether certain services are not offered, or areas are not sufficiently served.

Discuss emerging trends and innovations within the landscaping industry. This could encompass:

Eco-friendly practices

Sustainable landscaping

Advancements in technology and equipment

Your awareness of industry trends indicates your readiness to adapt and stay competitive.

In addition, outline your target audience or buyer persona , including demographics and psychographics. If your key target market includes discerning families, this could help determine specific service offerings, such as organic cleaning products and methods. 

6. Competitor analysis 

In the competitor analysis section of your business plan, list the top landscape industry players in your service area and their strengths and weaknesses. Discuss competitive advantages that set the business apart and strategies for outperforming competitors, which may include capitalizing on the weaknesses of your peers. 

→ When performing a competitive analysis, due diligence requires consulting market research and industry benchmarks. This guides strategic decision-making .

In addition, detail the marketing and promotional tactics employed by competitors, including their:

Online presence

Social media engagement

Advertising campaigns

Customer acquisition strategies

Explain how your marketing efforts aim to stand out or compete effectively.

7. Marketing plan and sales strategy 

You’ve already established your target audience. Now, outline how you plan to reach potential customers and convert them into new customers. List your marketing channels and tactics, like direct mail, email marketing, and social media marketing.

When crafting a marketing strategy , consider each step of the buyer journey and how your company will effectively target customers through those steps, which include:

For your sales strategy, define your approach, such as value-based or consultative selling . 

In addition, define your follow-up strategy for unsold estimates–consider what will convert them–and how to utilize customers you’ve serviced to garner reviews and referrals. 

Your management plan provides an overview of the company’s business structure and key personnel responsible for executing the business plan. It acts as a roadmap for:

Making staffing decisions

Defining internal processes

Developing leaders 

You may start with an organizational chart, which provides an overview of the company hierarchy from the management team on down. Then, go into further detail, listing the roles and responsibilities of each team member. 

A company’s recruitment and retention relies on quality management. Discuss strategies for attracting and retaining talent and your plans for talent development and growing your landscape business . This could include mentorship programs , career pathing , and feedback mechanisms . 

The financial plan breaks down the numbers side of your landscaping business, outlining the company’s economic viability and the leadership’s financial acumen. 

For businesses seeking funding, outline the capital requirements to start the company and how the money will be used. Include personal income statements for each owner and major stockholder, showing assets and liabilities outside the business and personal net worth.

A financial plan should include financial statements, such as:

12-month profit-and-loss projection

Cash flow statement projection

Projected balance sheet

Break-even calculation

Take into account the average profit margins for a landscaping business . Also, list financial risks and mitigation strategies. 

→ Your financial plan is a moving target, as you can’t always predict and plan for changing economic landscapes. Regularly r evisiting and updating this section of your business plan is crucial .

You might use resources to help implement your financial plan, such as landscape business software like Aspire, which provides visibility into every aspect of operations. 

With real-time data readily accessible via custom reports and dashboards , and features to accurately and immediately calculate job costs, Aspire helps landscaping businesses make informed decisions to improve:

Productivity

Accountability

A landscape or lawn care business plan helps secure funding, uncover your business differentiators, and guide day-to-day landscape business operations. Check out our sample business plan to get started. 

Field service software helps implement the business plan, leading to growth, profitability, and landscape business success .

Aspire ’s end-to-end business management software delivers industry-leading features for:

Job costing

Labor management

Purchasing 

For more than a decade, landscape contractors have trusted Aspire’s tools to help them operate profitably and efficiently.

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Landscaping Business Plan PDF Example

• July 23, 2024
• Business Plan

Creating a comprehensive business plan is crucial for launching and running a successful landscaping business. This plan serves as your roadmap, detailing your vision, operational strategies, and financial plan. It helps establish your landscaping business’s identity, navigate the competitive market, and secure funding for growth.

This article not only breaks down the critical components of a landscaping business plan, but also provides an example of a business plan to help you craft your own.

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or new to the service industry, this guide, complete with a business plan example, lays the groundwork for turning your landscaping business concept into reality. Let’s dive in!

Our landscaping business plan is designed to encompass all critical components necessary for a holistic strategic approach. It outlines the company’s service offerings, marketing efforts, analysis of the market and competitors, organizational structure, and financial forecasts.

• Executive Summary : Offers an overview of your landscaping business concept, market analysis , management, and financial strategy.
• Services and Rates: Lists the range of landscaping services offered, such as landscape design, lawn care, hardscaping, irrigation systems, and seasonal maintenance, with a clear pricing structure.
• Key Stats: Shares industry size , growth trends, and relevant statistics for the landscaping market.
• Key Trends: Highlights recent trends in the landscaping industry, such as the emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly practices and technological advancements in landscaping tools.
• Key Competitors : Analyzes main competitors in your area and differentiates your service in terms of design creativity, service range, and environmental sustainability.
• SWOT: Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis tailored to your landscaping business.
• Marketing Plan : Specifies marketing strategies to promote your services, including digital advertising, local trade shows, and partnerships with local suppliers.
• Timeline : Key milestones and objectives from the initial setup to the first year of operations, detailing steps such as market analysis, legal setup, facility selection, equipment procurement, and launch marketing activities.
• Management: Information on the management team, highlighting their expertise in landscaping design, operations management, project execution, and client relationship management.
• Financial Plan: Projects the five-year financial performance of the landscaping service, including revenue targets, profit and loss statements, fundraising needs, cash flow projections, and balance sheet forecasts.

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Landscaping Business Plan

Fully editable 30+ slides Powerpoint presentation business plan template.

Download an expert-built 30+ slides Powerpoint business plan template

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Executive Summary

The Executive Summary introduces your landscaping business plan, offering a concise overview of your company and its services. It should detail your market positioning, the range of landscaping and garden care services you offer, its location, size, and an outline of day-to-day operations. 

This section should also explore how your landscaping business will integrate into the local market, including the number of direct competitors within the area, identifying who they are, along with your company’s unique selling points that differentiate it from these competitors. 

Furthermore, you should include information about the management and co-founding team, detailing their roles and contributions to the company’s success. Additionally, a summary of your financial projections, including revenue and profits over the next five years, should be presented here to provide a clear picture of your company’s financial plan.

Make sure to cover here _ Business Overview _ Market Overview _ Management Team _ Financial Plan

Dive deeper into Executive Summary

Business Overview

Detail the range of landscaping services offered, from routine lawn maintenance and garden care to specialized services like landscape design, hardscaping, or irrigation system installation.

Outline your pricing strategy , ensuring it reflects the quality of services provided and aligns with the market you’re targeting. Highlight any service packages, seasonal deals, or loyalty programs that provide added value to your clients, encouraging repeat business and fostering customer loyalty.

Market Overview

Industry size & growth.

In the Market Overview of your landscaping business plan, start by examining the size of the landscaping industry and its growth potential. This analysis is crucial for understanding the market’s scope and identifying expansion opportunities.

Consider factors such as the increase in residential and commercial development, the growing emphasis on outdoor living spaces, and the rising awareness of the environmental benefits of well-maintained landscapes.

Key market trends

Proceed to discuss recent market trends , such as the increasing consumer interest in sustainable and eco-friendly landscaping practices, the demand for outdoor living spaces equipped with features like fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and entertainment areas, and the growing popularity of native plant gardens that require less water and maintenance.

Highlight the demand for services that cater to specific landscape design and maintenance needs, alongside the rising popularity of smart irrigation systems to conserve water.

Key competitors

Then, consider the competitive landscape, which includes a range of providers from high-end landscape architects to budget-friendly lawn care services, as well as DIY landscaping trends.

Emphasize what makes your landscaping business distinctive, whether it’s through exceptional customer service, a unique range of design and maintenance services, or specialization in sustainable landscaping practices.

Make sure to cover here _ Industry size & growth _ Key competitors _ Key market trends

Dive deeper into Key competitors

First, conduct a SWOT analysis for the landscaping business, highlighting Strengths (such as expertise in water-conserving landscaping techniques and a unique offering of drought-tolerant designs), Weaknesses (including potential limitations in plant variety or challenges in client education about the benefits of  landscaping), Opportunities (for example, increasing awareness and regulation around water conservation leading to a higher demand for landscaping solutions), and Threats (such as climate unpredictability that may impact project scopes or competition from traditional landscaping businesses expanding into landscaping).

Marketing Plan

Next, develop a marketing strategy that outlines how to attract and retain clients through targeted advertising that emphasizes the environmental and economic benefits of landscaping, promotional discounts for water-saving landscaping projects, an engaging social media presence showcasing successful projects and water conservation tips, and community involvement in local sustainability efforts. Highlighting the aesthetic appeal and low maintenance of landscapes can also attract clients looking for sustainable yet beautiful outdoor spaces.

Finally, create a detailed timeline that outlines critical milestones for the landscaping business’s launch, including initial market research , website and portfolio development, community outreach efforts, first client acquisition, and subsequent project completions. Set benchmarks for marketing initiatives, client base growth, and expansion objectives, such as offering new services or entering new markets, ensuring the business progresses with clear direction and purpose.

Make sure to cover here _ SWOT _ Marketing Plan _ Timeline

Dive deeper into SWOT

Dive deeper into Marketing Plan

The Management section focuses on the landscaping business’s management and their direct roles in daily operations and strategic direction. This part is crucial for understanding who is responsible for making key decisions and driving the landscaping business towards its financial and operational goals.

For your landscaping business plan, list the core team members, their specific responsibilities, and how their expertise supports the business.

Financial Plan

The Financial Plan section is a comprehensive analysis of your financial projections for revenue, expenses, and profitability. It lays out your landscaping business’s approach to securing funding, managing cash flow, and achieving breakeven.

This section typically includes detailed forecasts for the first 5 years of operation, highlighting expected revenue, operating costs and capital expenditures.

For your landscaping business plan, provide a snapshot of your financial statement (profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow statement), as well as your key assumptions (e.g. number of customers and prices, expenses, etc.).

Make sure to cover here _ Profit and Loss _ Cash Flow Statement _ Balance Sheet _ Use of Funds

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How To Start A Landscaping Business

Updated: Apr 29, 2024, 12:58pm

Table of Contents

1. create a plan, 2. register your business, 3. get your tax identification number, 4. open a business banking account, 5. set your rates, 6. market your business, reasons to start a landscaping business, bottom line, frequently asked questions.

Landscaping is a lucrative field. While starting a landscaping business isn’t the cheapest between the necessary tools, equipment and business registration fees, it’s not the most expensive either. It’s also pretty simple to get started in terms of legal requirements. We’ll walk you through how to start a landscaping business so you can launch your new business quickly.

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When starting a landscaping business, the first step is to create a plan. It doesn’t need to be as comprehensive as a traditional business plan, but it is worth outlining the areas in which you plan to serve, the services you plan to offer, any specializations you might have, the tools and equipment you need to get started, your budget, and a general idea of how you plan to market your business and acquire customers.

For example, here’s a list of items that you’ll need to start a landscaping business:

• Pickup truck: $30,766
• Mower: $350 to $1,499
• Trimmer: $169 to $249
• Edger: $109 to $119
• Blower: $109 to $409
• Two gas cans (one for regular fuel and one for mixed fuel for trimmers and edgers): $25
• Shovels: $13 to $34
• Shears: $13 to $32
• Rakes: $12 to $28
• Work gloves: $12 to $15
• Noise-canceling headphones: $89
• Safety goggles: $3 to $13
• Steel-toed boots: $76 to $83

Of course, you may need more tools if you have employees. For example, this might mean multiple blowers and edgers, and an assortment of rakes. On top of that, you’ll also need to have funds available for materials and products, such as fertilizer, pesticides, plants and flowers–depending on your customer’s needs.

Generally, it’s best to anticipate needing $10,000 to start your business, depending on the amount of equipment you already own. This includes the equipment needed, business formation, insurance, website development and an initial marketing campaign.

Establishing your business entity involves choosing a name and registering your business with the state. While you can choose to be a sole proprietor with a “doing business as” (DBA) name, you don’t give yourself liability protection from that structure. Establishing an LLC or corporation offers you more protection.

To establish an LLC or corporation, you’ll file the appropriate paperwork with the secretary of state after you run a name search. The name search ensures that you are not choosing a name that competes with an existing business. The paperwork establishes the LLC documents or articles of incorporation.

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With the paperwork you receive from the secretary of state, you will be able to file for a tax identification number (TIN) with the IRS. The TIN is similar to a Social Security number for your business and is necessary to open a bank account.

The TIN is free if you do it directly with the IRS. You can do so by submitting an online application .

With your TIN and business registration documents, you can open a business banking account.  It’s important to have a separate bank account because it keeps business income and expenses separate from your personal income and expenses. This prevents the commingling of funds, putting those funds at risk for liabilities. It also makes it easier to file your taxes when you have all of your income and expenses noted in one place.

You may also want to establish a relationship with a trusted payment gateway. The bank account will allow you to make cash and check deposits, but it won’t automatically process credit card payments. Using a service such as Stripe or Square will allow you to easily take all forms of payments. Expect to pay up to 3% on gateway transaction fees.

Next, set the rates you will charge for your services. If you’re not sure what the going rate is in your area it can be worth it to call other landscaping companies in your area to see what the average range of costs for services is. You may have one set of rates for weekly mow and blow services while charging another fee for actual landscaping costs, such as putting in new grass or plants.

A weekly mow and blow might cost anywhere from $45 to $100, depending on the size of the yard. Landscaping costs average around $4 to $12 per square foot on average. Landscape design work can cost $7,000 or more depending on the complexity and size of the project.

Make sure that your charges cover your overhead. Overhead includes the cost of fuel, supplies such as fertilizer and labor for any employees you have. If you have employees, you’ll be required to get workers’ compensation to cover them. Your rates should cover your costs and leave a profit for you.

Once you have the business established and know your services and rates, you can start to market your new company. A grassroots marketing plan might include knocking on doors to hand out business cards introducing people to your services. This is a good method as you can start to get weekly clients in the same neighborhood to reduce commuting costs and time on the road.

Here are a few leading ways to market your landscaping business:

• Build a website so you can get found online
• Create a Google My Business account to get found in local search results
• Create social media accounts, such as a Facebook Business Page
• Register with relevant online business directories, such as Angi, Yelp or Yellow Pages
• Local advertising, such as local newspapers
• Pay-per-click advertising, such as Google Ads or Bing Ads
• Word of mouth
• Local networking events and business associations
• Direct outreach to local businesses (if offering commercial landscaping services)

For example, setting up a business website is a key component in getting found online and acquiring customers. The good news is that it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money, nor does it need to take a lot of time. Learn more about how to easily set up a website .

Owning a landscaping business is a good way for someone already working in the industry to become their own boss and make a good living. The business allows you to meet and interact with different people regularly. On top of the pride of owning your own business, you get to own a business that helps the environment. The more people care for their lawns and gardens, the better it is for the environment. You get CO2-consuming trees and plants and help the good insects such as bees and butterflies survive. This is a gratifying aspect of landscaping.

Starting a landscaping business isn’t complicated, but it requires the proper tools and equipment to get the job done. Be sure to see what you already own and budget for purchasing tools to start your company. Start small and scale as you get more clients and generate more revenue.

How profitable is a landscaping business?

The average profitability of a landscaping business is 5%, but an efficient operation might generate up to a 12% profit.

How do I come up with a lawn care business name?

Generating a name can be challenging but try to think about what you do in a straightforward way. You want the company name to clearly state what you do so people don’t have to think about it. When you have a name chosen, run it through the state’s business name search to make sure another lawn care company isn’t using it.

What kind of education is needed to start a landscaping business?

Although no formal education is necessary to start and operate a landscaping business, there are some degrees and certifications that may help you attract customers. For example, some options are available for Bachelor of Science degrees in landscaping, specifically related to horticulture. You can also find organizations like the National Association of Landscape Professionals that offer landscape certifications in disciplines like lawn care management and landscape technician. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also offers certification programs, including system installation and maintenance and irrigation system design.

What is the job description for a landscaper?

A landscaper works on planting and maintaining flowers, trees, grass, hedges and bushes. They regularly mow and weed lawns and rake up leaves and debris accumulated on the property. The landscaper may also water and fertilize plants and grass. Many landscapers also install sprinkler systems.

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Kimberlee Leonard has 22 years of experience as a freelance writer. Her work has been featured on US News and World Report, Business.com and Fit Small Business. She brings practical experience as a business owner and insurance agent to her role as a small business writer.

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Landscape Design and Maintenance Business Plan

Start your own landscape design and maintenance business plan

Emerald Outdoor Design

Value proposition.

Emerald Outdoor Design is a full-service landscape design and implementation firm. It’s our goal to bring beauty to your home that adds to serenity in your life. 

Serving the greater Eugene area, we specialize in residential projects and excel in transforming your outdoor area into an impressive and beautiful space. Through the use of garden design, custom planters/masonry, water features, and tailor-crafted walkways, decks, and patios—we will create the oasis and curb appeal of your dreams. 

The Problem 

Homeowners often watch design TV shows, pass by homes with impressive lawn and garden features, or even thumb through magazines wishing they understood how to improve the aesthetic and function of their own home. Yet, they often come to realize that their background knowledge relating to materials, custom options, design possibilities, and plant varieties is far too limited. These homeowners seek a trustworthy, communicative, and collaborative landscaping and design team that can turn someone’s vision into a functionally beautiful design.  

The Solution

At Emerald Outdoor Design, we oversee each project from the design phase to the build-out process with the philosophy of maintaining a collaborative approach with our clients. Our designers are skilled in drawing inspiration from both modern and traditional influences and truly listen to their client’s needs and objectives. This allows us to design and install a beautiful final product (rivaling any TV show) that everyone is proud of.  

Target Market

The primary market for Emerald Outdoor Design is homeowners who are looking to improve their property appearance and value through landscaping and design. Common attributes of these homeowners include: 

• A desire to create a functional outdoor living space. 
• Properties with landscaping that is outdated or needs improvement.
• The need for a single solution that offers a wide range of services, including design, installation, and maintenance. 
• Looking to work with a company that has a good reputation.

The secondary target market for Emerald Outdoor Design is businesses, such as real estate firms, who are looking to improve the appearance and value of their properties when selling through landscaping and design.

Competitors & Differentiation

Current alternatives.

• Landscaping design companies in the immediate area:
• Graham Landscape and Design
• Thompson Landscape Company
• GrassRoots Landscape Company
• Living Concepts Landscapes
• Clients who are all in on DIY

Emerald Outdoor Design is the perfect company for homeowners who are looking to improve their property appearance and value through landscaping and design. We have a team of experienced professionals who are passionate about creating beautiful outdoor spaces, and we will work with you to create a custom plan that meets your specific vision and budget—while also considering the site’s conditions and constraints. 

We offer a wide range of services, including landscape design, installation, and maintenance, so you can be sure that your property will look its best. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you transform your outdoor space.

Funding Needs

The initial tool inventory cost will be $25,000 with an expected increase as the client base needs will expand. Marketing costs to launch the business amounts to about $5,000 for website creation, initial google ads, email/mail marketing, etc. Beginning operational costs of 1 year, including expanding tool and supplies inventory, employee salary, machine maintenance, design software licensing, etc., the total amounts to $120,000. 

The total initial funding needed is $150,000 to cover starting costs and the first year of operational expenditure. 

Sales Channels

• Google My Business listing

Marketing Activities

• Personal accounts/references
• Facebook Ads
• Instagram Ads

Financial Projections

Ongoing expenses will include employee salary, taxes, advertising, and paying SBA loans. Hiring a small crew of 2-3 people and looking to expand to another team as clientele increases. The goal is to acquire 3-4 commercial properties, as well as over 30 residential accounts completed within one year’s time. A consistent cost will be advertising expenses including website, google ads, etc. 

• 2022: $185,000
• 2023: $260,000
• 2024: $320,000

Expenses/Costs:

• 2022: $150,000
• 2023 : $200,000
• 2024: $230,000
• 2022: $35,000
• 2023: $60,000
• 2024: $90,000
• Obtain permits and licenses (DBA, EIN, LCB, LCB)— September 22, 2022
• Purchase necessary equipment/tools  —  September 25, 2022
• Conduct employee interviews for Landscape Designer — October 5, 2022
• Hire Landscape Designer – October 10, 2022
• Conduct interviews for initial Labor crew  — October 15 , 2022
• Hire 2-3 person Labor team — October 20, 2022
• Create website and Google, Yelp, Facebook, Instagram accounts —  October 22, 2022
• Open for business — October 30, 2022
• Begin initial marketing/advertising campaign — October 31, 2022
• Google/Yelp review forecast —  January 1, 2022
• Lane County Home and Garden Show — March 11, 2023
• Expand to two Labor crews for additional projects — May 1, 2023
• Hire Administrative Assistant (Sales, Customers, Financials) — July 15, 2023

Team and Key Roles 

Owner/Manager: Establishes the business and is in charge of overseeing the hiring of employees, maintaining the financials for the company, forecasting supply needs, and nurturing long-term business prospects. Supervises construction of new projects and negotiates new landscape design contracts. Tasked with communicating with clients. Consistently monitors tools/inventory to successfully complete projects in a timely manner. 

Landscape Designer: Landscape designer is responsible for creating and implementing plans/designs for landscaping projects. This includes anything from small gardens, irrigation systems, and outdoor spaces for clients. They must be able to take the client’s vision and turn it into a reality. This includes creating a plan, preparing drawings and specifications, estimating costs, selecting plants/materials, and helping oversee the construction process.

Hourly Laborer: Takes the design plans from paper to reality. Follows direction from owner/supervisor in steps to complete projects. Manages on-site inventory (supplies, tools, equipment) and communicates any identifiable problems that arise.

Partnerships and Resources

Emerald Outdoor Design’s resources/partnerships with local businesses and entities allow the company to increase its exposure to its target market and increase its stake in the local landscape design market. These partnerships give Emerald Outdoor Design the resources it needs to position itself as the leading landscape design company in the Eugene area.

• Partner with local Garden store to offer joint services with native plant species
• Develop a targeted/curated high-profile brochure that is sent out to high-income residential properties in the immediate Eugene radius
• Offer networking opportunities to rapidly increase company awareness
• Pitch partnerships to local HOA’s that are looking for consistent and quality work with competitive prices
• Set up a booth and showcase completed projects to attendees with testimonies, business cards, brochures, etc. 

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Home » Sample Business Plans » Real Estate

How to Write a Landscaping Business Plan [Sample Template]

Are you about starting a landscaping company? If YES, here’s a complete sample landscaping business plan template & feasibility report to help you get started. Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a landscaping business. We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample landscaping marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for landscaping businesses. So let’s proceed to the business planning section.

A Sample Landscaping Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

It is not enough to own a property that is well designed and built; the hallmark of any property is the beauty of the lawns and gardens. Landscapers are in the business of giving total esthetic effect in and around our neighborhoods. It is not enough to plant flowers or have a lawn in your compound and just watch them grow; you need to hire a professional landscaping company to help you bring out the beauty in your environment.

Landscape architecture is all about the art, planning, designing, management, preservation and rehabilitation of the land and the design of a large man – made concepts; it beautifies our environment. Landscaping business just like Lawn care business is not one of those businesses that you can start and make big money from without truly working pretty hard and smart.

Any entrepreneur who intends to start his or her own landscaping business with the aim of making huge profits from it must be very creative and ready to go the extra mile to convince clients that he or she can deliver an excellent job. Furthermore, you have got to prove beyond every reasonable doubt that you are competent.

In a publication released by a Professional Land-care Network (PLANET), an international association serving landscaping professionals, lawn care professionals, exterior maintenance contractors, installation/design/building professionals, and interior scapers, there are approximately 12,000 landscapers in the united states of America.

This statistics covers independent operators, franchises and large corporate chains. They also stated that the number of professional landscapers could actually be considerably higher because there are so many people doing landscape maintenance on part – time and on a pay as you go basis.

Lastly, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, published in 2006-2007 (U.S. Department of Labor), is that almost 1 out of every 4 landscaping, grounds – keeping, nursery, greenhouse and lawn service workers is self-employed and provides maintenance services directly to customers on a contract basis. Of these, about 1 out of every 6 works part time.

Although, landscaping business might not be amongst the money spinning businesses in the US, but they have a very large market that is readily available for them if they can convince property owners to patronize their services.

As a matter of fact, statistics has it that the United States green industry (landscape and lawn maintenance, landscape contractors, landscape architects, irrigation contractors, and lawn and landscape product suppliers) generates roughly $67 billion to $69 billion annually. PLANET estimates that the landscaping services sector alone generates about 704,000 jobs and $35.6 million in value-added services annually in the US; it is indeed a growing industry.

Landscaping business also falls in the category of seasonal businesses. The industry experiences downtime during the winter period and in most states in the US. In general, the demand for landscaping services is usually at its peak in the spring and generally between April and October. Which is why landscaping companies are always everywhere sourcing for business deals within this period of the year.

If you are familiar with the landscaping industry, you will notice that most landscaping companies do not restrict their services to only landscape architecture et al; they ensure that they add additional services such as lawn care services, snow plowing services (during winter season), fumigation services and any other similar services just to ensure that they maintain steady in – flow of income during peak and off peak periods.

As such; any entrepreneur who wants to start a landscaping business in the US should be aware that the landscaping and lawn care industry is a closely regulated industry that requires practitioners to earn certifications that permit them to handle hazardous compounds; most especially when they also offer fumigation services.

2. Executive Summary

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is a licensed landscape architecture company that will be based in Miami Beach, Florida –United States of America and will have active presence in other cities such as; Greenacres City, Miami, Jacksonville, Clearwater, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, North Miami, West Palm Beach, Palm Harbor, Deltona, Orlando, Palm Bay and Panama City et al.

We chose to operate in these cities because we know that our services will be in high demand due to the geographical nature of Florida. Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is in the business of beautifying in our environment by offering professional landscape architecture services. We know that the beauty of a city or property is not complete if the gardens or lawns are not properly designed and managed.

We know the importance of networking with the right set of people, which is why we have form partnership with stake holders (landlord associations, property managers and relevant government agencies) in Florida.

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is specialized in handling golf courses, beach houses, major roads and streets as well as residential buildings and public facilities et al. As a matter of fact, when it comes to giving golf course the professional outlook it deserves, we are on top of the game.

We have some of the finest landscapers, who are gifted and also have gone ahead to acquire the relevant trainings that will make them create esthetic effect in the environment that will be second to none.

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is fully aware of the seasonal nature of the business which is why we have made provision to engage in complimentary services during off peak period. We will engage in snow plowing during winter, sale of flowers, tree cutting, fumigation and other related services.

We will also provide consultancy services to homeowners, property managers and the government when it comes to creating the esthetic effect that will bring out the beauty in our environment.

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is a private registered company landscape company that is owned by Glover Carrington and family. The company will be fully and single handedly financed by the owner – Glover Carrington. The business will be managed by his son Gordon Carrington; he is a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).

Mr. Gordon Carrington (Master of Landscape Architecture – MLA) is a core professional who has experience in sensitivity to landscape quality, ability to analyze problems in terms of design and physical forms, understands the arts and humanistic approach to design and he has skills in all aspects of professional practice including management and professional ethics. He has well over 7 years of experience in the industry.

3. Our Products and Services

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is in the business of bring out the beauty in our environment and our services will be carried out by highly trained professionals who know what it takes to give our highly esteemed customers value for their money.These are the services that Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company will be offering;

• Landscape architecture services
• Landscape care/maintenance services
• Trimming Landscaping
• Landscape design/contracting services
• Lawn mowing/maintenance
• Sod installation/hydro – seeding
• Weeding or fertilizer and/or pest control application
• Weekly lawn cut
• Weeding Beds
• Sale of flowers
• Spring Cleanup
• Fall Cleanup
• Chemical Treatment
• Snow Plowing
• Consultancy and Advisory Services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our Vision is to become the number one choice of homeowners, property managers and government agencies when it comes to landscaping services in Florida, U.S.
• Glover and Greenhouse Landscaping Company is a business positioned to be the become the leaders when it comes to bringing out the beauty (esthetics) in our environment by offering top notch landscaping architectural services and other related services in Miami Beach and other cities in Florida, U.S.

Our Business Structure

Glover and Greenhouse Landscaping Company will be headquartered in Miami Beach, but will operate in other cities in Florida which is why we designed our business structure to support the nature of our operations. We want to create a team of dedicated workforce that will help the organization achieve its aim of becoming the number one landscape company in the whole of Florida.

Because we don’t have the required finance to manage the numbers of workforce that we would need, we have made provisions to hire some freelance landscapers to help us handle some contracts when the need arises. Here is the business structure of Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company;

• Chief Operating Officer (Owner)
• Sales and Marketing Executive

Landscape Architect / Landscapist

• Field Staff
• Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Operating Officer:

• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for the day to day running of the business
• Responsible for handling high profile clients and deals
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization at regular interval
• Responsible for the planning, management and coordinating all projects on behalf of the company
• Supervises projects
• Ensures compliance during project executions
• Provides advice on the management of projects
• Responsible for carrying out risk assessment
• Uses IT systems and software to keep track of people and progress of ongoing projects
• Responsible for overseeing the accounting, costing and billing of every project
• Represents the organization’s interest at various stakeholders meetings
• Ensures that project desired result is achieved, the most efficient resources are utilized and different interests involved are satisfied. Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Handles all financial transactions for the company
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.

Sales and Marketing Officer

• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Documents all customer contact and information.
• Represents the company in strategic meetings
• Helps increase sales and growth for the company
• Lists the property for rent / lease to the public
• Markets space; finds tenants; participates in lease negotiations.
• Provides property owners with a real property condition disclosure (if required by law) and other necessary forms.
• Prepares necessary papers describing the property for advertising, pamphlets, open houses, etc.
• Holds an open house to show the property.
• Serves as a contact available to answer any questions about the property and schedule showing appointments.
• Responsible for planning and designing of places such as residential development area, parks, campuses, cemeteries, resorts, commercial centers, water fronts and corporate and institutional centers.
• Responsible for designing and implementing projects that respect both the needs of people and our environment
• Offers training and consultancy services
• Responsible for analyzing problems in terms of design and physical form
• Responsible for translating designs into a built work
• Responsible from training of field workers and freelancers

Field Workers

• Responsible for Lawn mowing/maintenance
• Handles Sod installation/hydro – seeding
• Handles Landscape care/maintenance services
• Carries out task in line with the stated job description
• Handles snow plowing
• Handles tree cutting
• Assists in transport working tools and equipment from the office (store) to site and back to the office
• Handles any other duties as assigned my the line manager

Front Desk / Customer’s Service Officer

• Receives Visitors / clients on behalf of the organization
• Receives parcels / documents for the company
• Handles enquiries via e-mail and phone calls for the organization

6. SWOT Analysis

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is in business for the purpose of making profits and building long lasting relationship with its clients and we know that in order for us to achieve these, we must be able to leverage on our strengths and take hold of all the opportunities that we come across.

We are aware that if effective strategies are not put in place, the weakness of a company and the threats that the business will be exposed to can strangulate the business which is why we have decided to take out time to conduct a SWOT analysis for Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company.

As a company, we look forward to maximizing our strength and opportunities and also to develop strategies that will help us effectively handle our weaknesses and threats. Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company;

Our strength as a landscape company is the fact that we have healthy relationships with key stakeholders in Florida. We have some of the latest equipment that will help us deliver neat and excellent jobs. Our management team and workforce are highly trained and qualified to deliver excellent jobs within record time. We are well positioned and we have active presence in major cities in Florida.

Our weakness could be that we are a new landscaping company in Miami Beach, Florida and it will require consistency for us to gain the confidence of our prospective clients (homeowners, property managers and even the government).

• Opportunities:

The opportunities that are available to us cannot be quantified; we know that there are loads of homeowners, property managers and government establishment that will require our services in Miami Beach and other cities in Florida.

Some of the threats that we are likely going to face as a landscaping company are global economic downturn that can impact negatively on household spending, bad weather cum natural disasters and the arrival of a competitor ( a company that offer same service as we do ) within same location. There is hardly anything we could do as regards these threats other than to be optimistic that things will continue to work for our good.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

It is a common trend in landscaping and lawn care industry to see loads of landscapers struggle to meet ends meet. This is so because a larger percentage of people who are supposed to patronize their services are reluctant when it comes to paying the true worth of the services rendered.

It is also a common trend to see landscape companies engage in other complimentary services to makes meet. The fact that there are off peak periods in the business makes it of necessity for landscape companies to look for other sources of income in order to maintain steady flow of income throughout the year.

If you are conversant with the landscape industry, you will realize that one of their major challenges is the challenge of accurately pricing services It takes a landscape company that has been in the business for a while to effectively charge clients in such a way that they will have enough resources to carry out the project, pay for labor and still make enough profits. It is important for any landscape company to first inspect the area they are to carry out their job so that they will be able to properly submit a quotation that will be favorable to both parties.

Usually, most landscaping companies ensure that they send their quotations to prospective clients only when they have been able to do their calculations based on per square foot of the property. Over and above, the creativity of the landscape architect will go a long way to determine the amount that can be charged and the inflow of business.

8. Our Target Market

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company was deliberately located in Miami Beach simply because we have a wide range of people and businesses that can hire our services; the geographical nature of Miami Beach is highly suitable for the kind of services we render. Our target market as a landscape company is not just restricted to only homeowners and property managers but also government establishment.

We are quite aware that the state government is one of the biggest clients in the industry, which is why we have structured our business to meet the expectations and requirements of the government when it comes to bidding for government contracts. This is the group of people that we will market our landscape business to;

• Facility managers for botanical gardens, historic buildings, municipalities and other government entities, universities, cemeteries and other public places with green spaces
• Homeowners who plan to put their home on the market and want to improve its curb appeal with fresh or updated landscaping
• Builders of both residential and commercial properties who don’t already have their own landscaper or staff
• New homeowners who wish to update the existing landscape of their property
• Homeowners who are frequently out of town on business
• Retirees who don’t care to do their own maintenance any longer
• “Snowbirds” with winter homes in warmer climates
• Golf course managers who may need help with maintenance
• Rental property or condominium association managers who are personnel-impaired
• Homeowners who don’t have the vision, skill or tools to design their own landscaping
• Managers of public facilities
• Government establishment

Our Competitive Advantage

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is fully aware that there is competition in the industry, which is why we decided to carry out thorough research and draft a killer landscaping marketing plan; so as to know how to take advantage of the available market in the cities where we want to operate.

We have done our homework and we have been able to highlight some factors that will give us competitive advantage in the marketplace; some of the factors are competence, trust, honesty, good network and excellent relationship management. One of the positive that we have as a company is the fact that we have some of the best hands in the industry under our payroll; our manager has a robust experience in the industry.

Another competitive advantage that we are bringing to the industry is the fact that we have designed our business in such a way that we can comfortably work with both the highly placed clients and the lowly placed clients; our prices are designed to fit into the budget of the lower class, the middle class and the upper class.

We are quite aware of the importance of taking proper care of our workforce which is why we have created welfare packages that will make all our employers willing to stay longer with us and also to always put in their best when carrying out their jobs.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company will ensure that we do not only generate income from our core service delivery but also from complementary services that we will render. Below are the sources we intend exploring to generate income for Posh Lawn Care and Landscape Company;

• Tree Cutting

10. Sales Forecast

From the survey conducted, we were are able to discover that the average landscaping business owner rakes in about $5,000 to $ 50,000 in their first year of active business, and a steady increase of $160,000 to $250,000 from subsequent year as long as they are consistent in what they do and have been able to create additional sources of income.

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company have perfected her sales and marketing strategies and we are set to deliver excellence services and designs. We know that if we structure our business properly and we have highly trained and motivated employees, we are likely going to meet or even surpass our set target of generating enough income / profits from our first three months of operations.

With the help of experts, we have been able to critically examine the landscape industry with more emphasis on Miami Beach, Florida and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some workable assumptions as well.

Below are the projections that we were able to come up with for the first three years of operations;

• First Year-: $150,000
• Second Year-: $250,000
• Third Year-: $500,000

N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and natural disasters within the period stated above.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company will do all it can to ensure that we become the preferred choice as far as landscaping services is concerned in Florida. We know the effectiveness of properly positioning a business which is why we have chosen a corner piece location in a busy road in Miami Beach to locate our business.

We will ensure that we leverage on all available networks to source for business deals. In view of that, we will continue to find local real estate clubs and connect with them and also we will locate gathering where we can find homeowners within the locations where we intend operating and then connect with them.

We will ensure that we bid at the appropriate time whenever there is the opportunity to handle government contracts both at the community and state level. We will also enter business partnership with local contractors and property managers since they also interface with property owners regularly; through them we can secure business deals.

Over and above, we have perfected strategies to network with people who are likely to refer business our way. In summary, Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company will adopt the following strategies in sourcing for clients for our business;

• Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to stake holders in the real estate industry, government institution and also property owners.
• Promptness in bidding for contracts
• Advertise our business in real estate / properties magazines and websites
• List our business on yellow pages ads
• Attend related real estate expos, seminars, and business fairs et al
• Create different packages for different category of clients in order to work with their budgets and still deliver quality job for them.
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business
• Direct marketing
• Word of mouth marketing (referrals)

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We are quite aware that any business that wants to grow beyond the corner of the street they are operating from must be ready and willing to utilize every available means (conventional and non – conventional means) to advertise and promote the business.

We intend growing our business which is why we have perfected plans to build our brand via every available means. Below are the platforms Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company intend to leverage on to promote and advertise her business;

• Encourage our loyal customers to help us use Word of Mouth mode of advertisement (referrals)
• Advertise our landscaping business in relevant magazines (real estate magazines), local newspaper, local TV stations and local radio station
• Promote our landscaping business online via our official website
• List our landscaping business on local directories (yellow pages ads)
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Google+, LinkedIn, Badoo, Facebook , twitter, et al to promote our landscaping business
• Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations around Miami Beach and other key cities in Florida.
• Direct coupon mailing approach to introduce our landscaping business to residence and property managers
• Engage in road show from time to time to create awareness of our landscaping business.
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas in Miami Beach, and other key cities in Florida
• Maximize our company’s website to promote our business
• Attend landlord and residence association meetings with the aim of networking and introducing our landscaping business.

These are some of the equipment that we would need to fully launch our lawn care and landscaping business;

• String Trimmer
• Edging Shears
• Turfing Iron
• Half Moon Cutter
• Leveling Rake
• Spring – tined Rake
• Wheel Barrow

12. Our Pricing Strategy

From our findings, the average cost of landscape services varies and it is dependent on loads of factors. For example, normal landscaping services include prices for services such as regular lawn maintenance which includes edging, mowing and blowing, fertilization, weeding beds, hedge trimming, shrub removal, replacement or moving, grass replacement, lawn care, irrigation among other landscape related services that may be required by a client.

Usually, these services are priced separately in most cases and in some instances; they may be priced together into one monthly service price.

We have been able to conduct effective survey and we were able to adopt a price format that is ideal for the kind of services we are going to be rendering.  Part of our business strategy is to ensure that we work within the budget of our clients to deliver excellent landscape services. At Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company, every client will find packages that will suite their budget.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits. Here are the payment options that are available to all clients of Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment with cash
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our client make payment for services rendered to them without stress on their part.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company ®

Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company is a privately owned business and it will be financed by the owner of the company; Mr. Glover Carrington. These are the areas where we intend sourcing for fund for Glover and Greenhouse Landscape Company;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the start – up capital from family members and friends (soft loans and gifts et al)
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the banks (loan facility).

N.B: Mr. Glover Carrington has been able to generate $30,000 ($20,000 from his personal savings and $10,000 as soft loan from his family members and friends. 50% of the start – up capital ($30,000 will be generated from the bank as loan)

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

• The Total Fee for incorporating the Business in Florida: $750.
• The budget for Liability insurance, permits and license: $1,500
• The Amount needed to acquire a small Office facility with space for storage of working tools and equipment in Miami Beach, Florida for 6 months (Re – Construction of the facility inclusive): $30,000.
• The Cost for equipping the office (computers, printers, fax machines, furniture, telephones, filing cabins, safety gadgets and electronics et al): $3,000
• The cost for acquiring the required working tools and equipment (walk-behind mower, a back pack blower, an edger, a weed eater and hand tools): $10,000
• The Cost of Launching our official Website: $600
• Additional Expenditure (Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions et al): $1,000

Going by the report from our research and feasibility studies, we will need about $60,000 to set up a standard landscaping business in Long Beach, CA.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Although Mr. Glover Carrington is the founder if the business, he is over 60 years old and since he intends building a business that will last, grow and expand, he decided to invest in training his son who is going to be the manager of the business. That is part of his sustainability and expansion strategy.

Glover and Greenhouse will ensure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that staff welfare is well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner.

Integrity, competence, trust and good relationship management are major factor that can guarantee steady growth for any business and we will ensure that we are known for such qualities.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of All form of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Renting of Office Facility in Miami Beach, Florida: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Start – up Capital Generation: Completed
• writing of business plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed furniture, office equipment, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
• Purchase of the needed working tools and equipment: Completed
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business (Business PR): In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety License Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with key players in the industry (networking and membership of relevant real estate bodies, landlord association): Completed

More on Real Estate

Landscaping Business Plan: How to Write It and What It Is

• Last Updated: October 27, 2022

A landscaping business plan is a document that outlines the goals, strategies, and financial projections for a landscaping company. It is important to have a business plan in place before starting a landscaping business, as it will help you to map out the potential growth and financial stability of the business. 

Starting a landscaping company can be more difficult than it looks. If you have a plan, it can make the journey much easier. This blog will be your guide to start a landscaping business and write your landscaping business plan .

Table of Content

• How to Write an Effective Landscaping Business Plan?

Why Do You Need a Business Plan?

Landscaping business plan template, how to write an effective landscaping business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for any business, and a landscaping business is no exception. Your plan should outline your business goals, strategies, and financial projections. It should be clear, concise, and easy to understand.

For your landscaping business to succeed, it’s important to put together a comprehensive lawn maintenance business plan. This should include a market analysis, an overview of the landscaping industry, your business goals and objectives, and a detailed plan for how you intend to achieve success.

Finally, your business planning should include a detailed action plan for how you intend to achieve your goals. This should include information on your marketing and advertising strategy, your sales and growth strategy, your competitor analysis, and your financial goals.

By taking the time to put together a comprehensive lawn maintenance business plan, you’ll be setting yourself up for success in the landscaping industry. There are a few key things to keep in mind when writing your landscape company business plan :

1. Define your business goals

When you’re putting together your landscaping business plan, one of the most important things to do is to define your business goals. 

• What do you want to achieve with your landscape businesses? 
• What are your long-term and short-term goals? Be specific and realistic in your goals.
• Are you hoping to grow your company to a certain size? 
• Are you hoping to serve a certain number of clients? 
• Are you hoping to achieve a certain level of profitability?

No matter what your specific goals may be, it’s important to write them down and make them a part of your business plan. Having clear and defined goals will help you to create a roadmap for your business, and it will also help you to measure your progress over time.

Also, make a company description that suits the market trends, covers all necessary information about your landscape business, and the lawn services you provide.

2. Outline your strategy

How are you going to achieve your business goals? What are your marketing plan and sales strategies? What are your operational plans?

This will give potential investors an idea of what you hope to achieve with your business, and who your target customers are. You will need to include a detailed business model, outlining how you plan on generating revenue and making a profit. 

• A mission statement is a brief, clear statement of an organization’s purpose, goals, and priorities. 
• A personal savings plan is a way to set aside money each month to reach your long-term savings goals. To be thorough, you need to have a complete understanding of all the details involved in your project. This will include things like pricing strategies, marketing initiatives, and operational costs. Using free project management templates can help you stay organized and ensure no key information gets overlooked.
• Your market analysis should take into account the current state of the economy and the landscaping industry, as well as your target market. Who will your new customers be? What are their needs and wants? What are the trends in the landscaping industry? This information will help you to determine your prices and position you for your business success.

3. Make financial projections

What are your revenue and expense projections? What are your capital requirements? Make sure your financial projections are realistic and achievable.

You will need to put together a solid financial plan, which will include your start-up costs, financial projections, and a strategy for securing funding. This is arguably the most important part of your business plan, as it will show potential investors whether or not your business is viable.

Many landscaping companies, to ensure they get repeat customers, keep their gross margin less for old customers compared to new customers. This method helps them retain old customers and maintain cash flow.

4. Write a clear and concise business plan

Your business plan should be easy to understand and free of jargon. Make sure to include all the key components outlined above. A company summary is a brief landscaping business description , its history, products and services, and your current situation which makes it easy to apply for bank loans.

As you sit down to write your landscaping business plan, keep in mind that its purpose is to communicate your vision and guide your business’s growth. With that in mind, here are a few tips to help you write a clear and concise business plan:

• Keep it short and sweet. No one wants to read a 100-page business plan. Keep your plan concise and to the point.
• Paraphrase sections of your business plan that sound less impactful. A paraphraser tool can help you avoid repetition in your write-up and allows you to express your ideas in a new way while maintaining the original meaning.
• Communicate your vision. Your plan of action should articulate your vision for your business. What are your long-term goals? What sets your business apart from the competition?
• Be realistic. Don’t over-promise and under-deliver. Be realistic in your projections and goals.
• Do your research. Make sure you have a good understanding of your market and your competition.
• Get help. If you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of resources available to help you write your business plan.

By following these tips, you can be sure that your landscaping business plan is well-rounded and will give you the best chance of success.

If you’re thinking about starting a landscaping business, you need a solid business plan. This plan should include a summary of your business, your marketing plan, and a financial forecast.

Your business plan should be thorough and cover all aspects of your business, from your market analysis to your pricing strategy. Your marketing plan should detail how you plan to reach your target market, and what methods you’ll use to promote your business. And finally, your financial forecast should outline your expected expenses and income.

With a proper business plan that includes your landscaping business plan summary, you’ll be on your way to starting a successful landscaping business.

There are many reasons why you might need a business plan. 

• Perhaps you are looking to start a new business and need to lay out your goals and strategies. 
• Or maybe you are already running a business and need to take it to the next level. 

Whatever the case may be, a business plan can be a helpful tool.

• A business plan can help you to articulate your business idea, set realistic goals, and map out a path to achieving them. 
• It can also force you to think about potential risks and how to mitigate them. 
• And if you are seeking financing from investors, a business plan can be essential in convincing them to invest in your business.

So, if you are thinking about starting a business, or taking your existing business to the next level, consider to write a business plan. Having a well-executed business plan is key to success. 

Make sure you do your research and put together a plan that takes into account your start-up costs, marketing strategy, and financial goals. By taking the time to plan, you’ll put your business on the path to success.

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A landscaping business plan template can be a great resource for those looking to start their own business. 

• This type of template can help you to create a well-organized and professional-looking business plan. It can also provide you with a framework to follow as you develop your business plan. 
• Additionally, a landscaping business plan template can help you to identify and assess the potential risks and opportunities associated with starting a landscaping company. Creating a business plan template for landscaping businesses can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. 

Free PDF Template of Landscaping Business Plan

When it comes to starting a successful lawn care business, having a well-thought-out business plan is essential. But what can you do to give your lawn care business a competitive advantage?

• One way to stand out from the competition is to offer landscaping services that they don’t. For example, if you’re starting a lawn care business in a suburban area, you could focus on offering organic lawn care services.
• Another way to set your business apart is to focus on customer service. This could mean offering a money-back satisfaction guarantee or providing free consultations to potential clients.
• In terms of detail, it is important to include enough information to give a clear overview of your landscaping business. However, you don’t want to include so much detail that the plan becomes cumbersome. A good rule of thumb is to keep the business plan to around 30 pages.
• As for frequency, it is generally a good idea to update your business plan on an annual basis. This ensures that your plan stays relevant and reflects any changes in your business. However, you may need to update it more frequently if your business is growing rapidly.

We hope our blog post on the landscaping business plan provided some guidance on the subject. You will get complete help in writing a business plan for your business. Once you start your landscaping business, all you need is a software solution to automate your business and its business operations. 

FieldCamp is the best landscape business software for automating routine landscaping operations and is an essential component for the long-term success of the lawn maintenance business. The software helps businesses streamline all the operations, including job scheduling, invoicing, payments, and reporting. Know how this software solution helps your landscaping business streamline operations by starting your 7-day FREE trial.

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How to write an effective landscaping business plan

Key takeaways

• An organized business plan paves the way to launch a successful landscaping company
• Landscaping business plans are just as important for new companies as they are for established companies seeking investors
• There are seven core sections of a landscaping business plan that can help you succeed and reach profitability

A landscaping business plan is a must if you’re thinking about starting your own landscaping company or seeking funds to grow your business. More than just a document, a business plan is a valuable tool all small business owners should rely on to plan a successful company.

Business plans benefit companies of all stages—whether you’re just launching your lawn care business or already have a few years under your belt. In fact, companies that take the time to write a business plan typically grow 30% faster than those that don’t .

Although writing a business plan takes a significant amount of planning and research, the process doesn’t need to be overly complicated. There are seven core sections to include. Learn how to write your landscaping business plan so you can set your company up for success and secure the funding you need from potential investors.

7 core sections of a landscaping business plan

A landscaping business plan allows you to set your company up for success. It helps you figure out if you have a viable business idea, creates a roadmap for launching your business, and organizes your thoughts.

Your landscaping business plan should include the following seven sections:

• Executive summary
• Business description
• Market analysis
• Services or product line
• Operations and management
• Marketing and sales
• Financial factors

Let’s review the specific details you should include in each section of your business plan.

1. Executive summary

An executive summary gives an overall description of your company and kicks off your business plan . It describes who you are, what you do, and why your landscaping company will succeed.

You can keep this section brief and high level, but make sure to include the following:

• Mission statement
• Description of your business
• Leadership team and number of employees
• Services you offer
• Where you’re doing business
• Why you’ll succeed

It’s good practice to write your executive summary after you’ve filled out all other sections of your business plan . This will help you first figure out all the details regarding your business, allowing you to then craft an effective executive summary .

2. Business description

The business description goes more in-depth and covers the finer details of your landscaping business . This is where you explain your competitive advantage, which problems you solve, and why your company will succeed in your market.

Highlight the value you bring to consumers and what sets you apart from your competition. Be clear about what makes you better than competitors and outline your company’s strengths.

Do you have employees who have many years of experience in the landscaping business ? Is there an opening in the market that makes you uniquely fit to fill a certain niche?

Also, discuss which customers you plan on serving. Is your target market more focused on residential customers, like homeowners ? Or will you go after commercial customers, such as offices and larger business accounts?

3. Market analysis

Before jumping into starting your own landscaping business , you must take a look at the overall industry and your competition . Analyzing the market helps you determine if there’s enough room in your area for another business like yours to be successful.

Take a look at the landscaping industry as a whole. Is consumer spending within the landscaping industry on the rise? 

You can estimate market saturation by simply taking a count of how many landscaping businesses are operating in your area. Figure out where these landscaping companies serve and determine if there’s an opportunity for you to enter the market and win over new customers.

Analyze what these competitors are doing well and find areas for improvement. Reading through your competitors’ Yelp reviews is an easy way to figure out what their strengths and weaknesses are from a consumer standpoint.

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of other landscaping companies will enable you to optimize your business practices and earn market share when first starting out.

4. Services or product line

The services and product line section of your landscaping business plan tells readers how you expect to make money. Specify the exact lawn care services you’ll provide customers and which niche you’ll serve.

Landscaping companies can offer more than only lawn mowing, but it’s best to choose only a few services you can adequately offer without overextending yourself. Service options may include:

• I nstalling sod or mulch
• Planting flowers and other plants
• Fertilizing
• Pest control
• Landscape design
• Ongoing lawn maintenance

Pick the landscaping services you’re qualified to offer and list them in this section. It’s also helpful if you discuss the frequency of your services. For example, are most customers receiving weekly lawn cutting or will you provide services on a bi-weekly basis?

5. Operations and management

The operations section of your landscaping business plan highlights what type of business structure you’re forming and how your leadership team is organized.

Explain what type of business you’re forming. You can choose between a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. You can find more information by reading through our guide on registering your business .

You’ll then need to provide an organizational chart that introduces the leaders of your company and provides a hierarchy of your team. Detail who holds which responsibilities and the hierarchy of your leadership team. If you’re the only member of your company, you can give a professional overview of yourself.

Talk about each employee and give each person’s years of experience and qualifications. Highlight areas that show why they’re the right fit for the job and how they’ll help your business succeed. You can even include brief resumes of your key employees to strengthen this section.

6. Marketing and sales

The marketing and sales section of your landscaping business plan tells readers how you’ll find and retain customers. There are many different landscaping marketing strategies that can help you find new leads and build lasting relationships with current customers.

A professional-looking website is a significant aspect of your marketing strategy . It will serve as the face of your company online. Most marketing channels will direct potential customers to your website.

You’ll also need to find ways to capture the attention of potential customers and encourage them to visit your website or contact you directly via phone or email. Some effective marketing strategies include:

• Email marketing
• Referral program
• Pay-per-click digital advertising
• Social media marketing
• Claiming your Yelp Business Page
• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Content marketing

Choose the appropriate strategies, create a marketing plan , and highlight them in this section. Explain how you expect to find new leads to grow your business and how you plan on building trust , retaining current clients and earning customer loyalty . 

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7. Financial factors

The finance section of your lawn care business plan offers realistic financial projections for your company. You’ll need to show readers that your business will be financially stable, especially if you’re seeking funding .

Analyzing your financials will help you determine if a landscaping business is worth pursuing. It’s important that you’re realistic with your expectations and have the appropriate funds to launch your business.

List all of the startup costs you expect to encounter. This can include expenditures like a lawnmower , work vehicles, edgers , or trimmers . From there you can determine the pricing of your services.

You can include financial statements like income statements, balance sheets , and cash flow statements if you’ve already launched your business. This will give tangible evidence for potential investors or lenders to determine if you have a viable business idea they’re willing to put money into.

You can also add a funding request if you’re seeking investment from a third party. Just be sure to include how much capital you’ll need, what you intend on doing with the funds, and how long investors can expect for your company to reach profitability . The time it takes you to reach profitability will depend on startup costs, pricing, and how quickly you can build your customer base.

Build a strong foundation with your business plan

It’s in your best interest to write a business plan before you embark on your entrepreneurial endeavor. It will serve as the foundation of your company and guide your future decisions. A well-thought-out business plan allows you to confidently navigate uncharted waters with a roadmap to follow.

Once you’ve organized your landscaping business plan , you can hit the ground running. After your business starts picking up, claim your Yelp Business Page and begin receiving reviews from happy customers.

The information above is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice and may not be suitable for your circumstances. Unless stated otherwise, references to third-party links, services, or products do not constitute endorsement by Yelp.

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6 Mistakes to Avoid When Starting A Landscape Architecture Firm

LAN writer Caitlin Lockhart, met with several professional landscape architects who have started their own practices to find out what mistakes people should avoid when following the same path. Starting a firm is a goal for many landscape architects and designers. Some start working for themselves right out of school, while others wait, learning from more experienced professionals before setting off on their own. No one will tell you that it’s easy to start your own business. Mistakes will be made and lessons learned, but it is entirely possible. We interviewed several entrepreneurial landscape architects and designers on the do’s and don’ts of starting your own firm. Here is their best advice of what to avoid when starting a business:

Starting A Landscape Architecture Firm

1. not having a vision.

Know what kind of work you want to do long before you get started. This way, you can begin taking steps toward your goal. Questions such as “ Do I need a license? ” can only be answered if you know what work your firm will focus on. Are you going to start a design/build firm focusing on high-end residential design? Then no, you don’t need a license. Do you want to work with parks, public spaces, or public housing? Then yes, you absolutely do . Knowing what kind of design you want to be doing on your own is essential to knowing what kind of networking, licensing, and insurance you should be thinking about.

2. Underestimating Word of Mouth

All of the professionals we interviewed couldn’t stress enough the importance of face-to-face networking and word-of-mouth referrals, especially in the first few months after opening their doors. “ Having an online presence is important, as well, ” Carlos Camara, principal of Juxtapose Design/Build in Seattle , said. “ But prospective clients generally find you online only after hearing rave reviews from someone they know .” Rather than spending precious seed money on ads, another principal joined community groups focused on sustainable design in her city. She learned what kind of work was already being done and how she could fit into a design niche. “ Join organizations that speak to your heart and purpose ,” she suggested .

3. Undervaluing Yourself

Many new designers undervalue their time and expertise for the first few months or years, until they find their footing in the industry and their voice as a creator. Don’t let someone talk you into a design fee you’re not comfortable with, and don’t work for free. You went to school to become a professional; your services are a valuable commodity that should be fairly paid for. “ It took me five years to realize I am bringing a gift to my clients, it is valuable, and I have spent years developing it. I want to share it with people who appreciate i t,” said Molly Maguire , of Molly Maguire Landscape Architecture in Bellingham, Washington.

4. Not Take Advantage of Available Resources

Many cities have small business development organizations that help new businesses get set up with grant funds, advice on taxes, writing a business plan, mentorship, and a business license. Most of these resources are free.

5. Thinking Startup Costs Will Be Too Expensive

Several of the principals we interviewed started out of their houses or garages, printed and scanned work at Kinko’s, and used bare-bones design software in their first few years. Like one principal said earlier, she saved money on advertising by growing her online presence and joining community organizations to grow her client base. Starting a business can be expensive, but you don’t necessarily need a loan to get going.

6. Not Having a Great Accountant, Insurance Agent, and Lawyer

Chances are, if you are a landscape architect or designer, it is unlikely that you also have a degree in accounting (but if you do, go you!). Starting a business has basic principles that, as an employee up until now, you may not have had to deal with. Payroll, taxes, handling lawsuits, and creating business plans are just a few. Consulting experts on topics in which your knowledge is lacking is the best way to make sure all of those bases are covered. Figuring out exactly what kind of insurance you need to keep your business covered is vital. Ask friends or colleagues who they have gone to for accounting and legal services. It’s OK to shop around and find the best fit for you and your business.

It’s All Worth It

Starting a landscape architecture firm and leaving the comparative security of a guaranteed income can be stressful, just like any other venture without a guaranteed future. But all the professionals we interviewed were very happy with their decision to strike out on their own. “ I love being my own boss ,” one said. He enjoys being able to pick and choose the clients he takes on, the control over his networking, and the scope of his business. There are many reasons to start one’s own firm. If, like Molly Maguire, says , “ you find you are constantly butting your head against a wall in your work environment and your passion is being diminished, absolutely begin the process of going out on your own. Take action! ” Is there any advice we missed? If you’ve started a business, what makes it successful? Is being licensed important to your business? What would you tell someone just starting in the landscape architecture field? Recommended Reading: 

• Drawing Scenery: Landscapes and Seascapes by Jack Hamm
• Drawing Nature for the Absolute Beginner: A Clear & Easy Guide to Drawing Landscapes & Nature (Art for the Absolute Beginner) by Mark Willenbrink

Article by Caitlin Lockhart Return to Homepage Featured image: License: CC0 Public Domain / FAQ via Pixabay

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PRACTICE | Stages of a Landscape Architecture design project

Landscape architecture design projects differ in scale and complexity, however, they are separated into various stages to allow for ease of management. Due to the variation in project types, the staging of landscape architecture projects requires a flexible approach to project management. The project stages often follow a similar pattern however, they may be shortened or not undertaken due to various factors including scale, complexity, client requirements, budget and so on.

I hope to assist those interested in landscape architecture by providing general information about the stages of design projects. The stage names and terminology may differ from country to country and region to region but there is a common process of managing a project through stages.

Before the landscape architect gets to the exciting part of designing the project there are few stages that often occur prior to putting pen to paper. The client has contacted you and agrees to provide a fee or proposal for landscape architecture services.

1 Project Inception & Initiation 1A Initial Consultation During the initial consultation (phone call or meeting), the landscape architect will have their first conversations with the client about their project including location, size, initial ideas, uses, budget, timeline. For large or government projects this stage may be in the form of a brief. A brief is a document that is provided by the client that includes important information about the project and those who are involved

1B Return Brief/Proposal After the client has provided the information the landscape architect then provides a return brief or proposal. This can be one-two pages or it can be 100 pages depending on the type of project and the budget involved.

The return brief/proposal sets out what the landscape architect understands what the project entails (ideas, use requirements, etc), what the landscape architect will provide (scope and deliverables), who will assist in the design of the project (team/people), who else may be involve consultant services (architecture, surveying, arborist, horticulturist, engineers, water feature consultant, lighting designer, etc), the fee (how much the services will cost) and the possible program (the time it will take).

1C Project Understanding and Research After the client has accepted the proposal and there is a signed contract or understanding made (such as M.O.U. or L.O.I. ) and prior to going to the site, the landscape architect will review the project. This includes the initial consultation notes, return brief/proposal and also have conversations with allied professionals including architects, engineers to gain an understanding of their ideas and scope. The landscape architect will also undertake some research including government requirements, local flora, adjacent area (uses, streets, etc).

1D Site Inventory and Analysis The landscape architect will undertake a site inventory and analysis usually using a survey plan (provided by the client or surveyor). This stage involves locating the site and the vegetation, reviewing the terrain, building/s, evaluating the current uses, environmental factors (site orientation, sun, shade, noise, wind, water, soil, etc). The landscape architect will also walk around the surrounding area to get some understanding of the local area (uses, architecture, vegetation, culture, etc).

2 Concept Design The concept design stage is when the landscape architect puts pen to paper (or stylus to screen) to develop the initial ideas for the project.

There are varying scale projects from residential to large parks to urban master plans. A small residential project may have the client (owner) and the landscape architect involved in the project. The project will have a concept stage with some reiterations and then a final concept stage. Whereas, a large scale regional park may include several concept phases including urban planning plan, landscape concept masterplan, government approval, schematic concept design, concept design. Each of these stages may span months or years depending on the resources (time, people, money), objectives of the client, approval timelines and community involvement

The main objective of this stage is to develop documents(plan or report) that provide the client with an understanding of the proposed spatial arrangement, programs, functions, constraints, opportunities and overall aesthetic. These documents often including plans, analysis studies(topographic, climatic, land use, vegetation, access, etc), precedent project images, renders (perspective, aerial, etc), typical material palettes, depending on the clients’ requirements.

During Concept development, the landscape architect could also have to provide documents required by the government for planning approval (sometimes called town planning, developmental approval, planning approval, or government approval)

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3 Design Development (Detailed Design) A stage where the initial concept is developed to provide the client with a greater understanding of the design. This is the stage when landscape architects start to develop their ideas in more detail to ensure that the concept design is achievable and will meet the client needs. At this stage, the designer also determines if there are any major issues (topographic, access, services, drainage, budget) as the design evolves and allied disciplines start to investigate and design their own design with greater detail.

Often clients see the initial concept but don’t fully understand that it is a concept and there needs to be further design undertaken to resolve the concept and ensure it is viable (financially, constructibility, etc).

The documents and level of detail provided in this stage differ from country to country. In some countries, Design Development entails providing colour plans, sections, material palettes with notation about materials, colours, heights and more.

Other countries require Design Development to be highly detailed documents(plans, sections, details, material schedules) ready for landscape construction companies (and/or quantity surveyors) to provide initial pricing (tender) on the project. This is usually determined by local practice and client expectations during the initial discussions.

4 Construction Documentation During this stage, the landscape architect develops documents including plans, sections, schedules, construction details, quantities and a specification for landscape construction companies to be price and build the project.

This stage often requires coordination with other consultants to reduce the possibility for construction issues and also to allow for resolution of overlapping design elements (architecture, landscape, lighting, engineering, etc)

5 Tendering (Procurement) For the tendering stage, the Construction Documentation package(drawings, schedules, specification) is issued to often three or more contractors(dependent on local regulations and client policies on procurement) to price the project and provide a construction program based on the documents available. Often these stages include various contractor questions to clarify the project design and requirements (materials, engineering, scope, etc) and may also be to suggest alternative material or construction methods that may offer savings for the client.

This stage can occur at different points of the project this is often determined by the client. The Tendering stage can occur at the end of Design Development or during or end of Construction Documentation. There are pros and cons to the timing of releasing drawings for tender and pricing.

6 Construction The stage when the contractor is on-site building the landscape design. Construction often includes the following stages:

• Demolition and Site Clearing
• Excavation and Trenching
• Services Installation (drainage, irrigation, electrical, etc)
• Fine Grading
• Hardscape Structure Construction (backfilling, compaction, base, footings, walls, buildings, edges, etc)
• Hardscape Finishes Construction(paving, cladding, inorganic mulches)
• Planting (trees, plants, organic mulch)
• Final Fixtures (furniture, pavilions, lighting, etc)
• Defects (identity and fix problems)
• Completion (Initial and Final)

The order in which these substages occurs is dependent on the size and type of project. A residential project may complete the construction in the order as listed. However, a park project may complete Demolition, Excavation, Services and Fine grading and then plant trees as the remainder of the project may take 6 to 18 months to build the Hardscape and Fixtures.

7 Construction Management (Construction Administration) The client may request that the landscape architect manage the project which can include full site supervision or can be several inspections and approval of construction, approvals of payments, approvals of variations.

Depending on the level of service the landscape architect may be fully involved in the project construction stage or maybe ask to only approval samples and the remainder of the project is completed by a project manager and construction company.

8 Maintenance Once the project is complete the contractor is often required to maintain the project for a period of time. This can be months or years depending on the client requirements. The landscape architect is often required to attend and submit reports during or at the end of the maintenance periods to ensure that project is being maintained and also that any defects (dead trees, item failures, etc) are made good or replaced.

9 Post Occupancy Evaluation Often design firms and clients will undertake Post Occupancy Evaluation. This can happen at various intervals during the initial opening and then the following months or years. These can be formalised or anecdotal and allow for learning and to evaluate various elements including planting, furniture, materials, maintenance, uses, event management, and more. This is the phase that as landscape architects we are often not paid to undertake but often offers the best insight to the resilience and success of our designs.

I have also recently written about the Other Stages of Landscape Architecture design project which goes into Variations, Consultation, Value Engineering and more. Read it at https://worldlandscapearchitect.com/practice-the-other-stages-of-landscape-architecture-design-projects/

If you would like to read more about landscape architecture projects and management there are various books that provide more insight into the including

The Professional Practice of Landscape Architecture: A Complete Guide to Starting and Running Your Own Firm

Ready, Set, Practice: Elements of Landscape Architecture Professional Practice

Professional Practice for Landscape Architects

Damian Holmes is the founder and Editor of WLA. He is also a Registered Landscape Architect of the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this blog post is for information only, the reader must undertake their own full investigation prior to making any decisions or taking any action based on the information provided. There are no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to the information contained in this blog post.

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• landscape architecture.

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Value of 3D Landscape Rendering and Design for Architectural Firms and Realtors

•   3D Rendering
•   Aug 7, 2024

The modern real estate industry has realized the undeniable importance of 3D rendering and design. That’s why it’s unsurprising that the 3D rendering market is also growing as more industries discover that 3D rendering methods allow them to achieve all their advertising, marketing, and business goals. For instance, the Park Lane Residences project used 3D landscape rendering and design to visualize complex landscaping ideas and create immersive virtual tours, which significantly boosted their marketing efforts, increased pre-sales, and enhanced customer satisfaction by providing a realistic preview of the final product.

This article delves into the value of 3D landscape rendering and design for architectural firms and realtors.

Aesthetics made even better

Freelance 3D landscape design services let you develop photorealistic imagery and captivating 3D visual configurations with stunning aesthetics. This helps highlight the property in the best way possible, including its exterior and interior views. This tool also helps showcase the property in ways you probably didn’t imagine to attract the attention of your target clientele and increase your chances of closing a deal.

For an architectural project to succeed, it’s essential to detect any errors in structure and design before the actual construction. This will reduce the effort and time spent on the project while increasing customer satisfaction, making incorporating their ideas into ongoing projects easier. However, it’s important to note that the complexity and cost of high-quality 3D rendering software, as well as the need for skilled professionals to operate it, may pose potential challenges. These limitations can impact the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the process, especially for smaller firms or projects with limited budgets.

3D landscape rendering and design also simplify shifting focus on the major highlights and features of the property. Unlike 2D images, advanced and modern 3D rendering imagery is so lifelike and realistic that it lets 3D artists highlight the most significant features of residential and commercial infrastructures. This is because 3D rendering captures intricate details, provides a sense of scale and spatial relationships, and allows for dynamic lighting and shadow effects, which give a more accurate representation of how the space will look and feel in reality. These capabilities justify its use by making presentations more compelling, facilitating better client communication, and enabling more precise planning and decision-making, ultimately leading to enhanced marketing effectiveness and increased sales potential.

This allows you to showcase the function and aesthetic features of the property’s exterior and interior spaces perfectly. Thanks to 3D landscape rendering and design, realtors can easily denote safe and comfortable living standards and emphasize layout, lighting, rooms, and others in the most appealing way possible.

RELATED: 3D Landscape Design Services: Cost, Rates, and Pricing for Companies and Firms

Better materials for marketing purposes

3D landscape rendering and design can also help you improve your existing and future marketing materials to offer your clients fantastic user and customer experience. Customer experience is the most effective tool in real estate marketing as it helps you approach clients more customer-centric and personalized and caters to their unique needs and requirements. This is an ideal way to help clients connect emotionally with the sold property. 3D landscape renders can present the property in a more user-friendly way that provides a complete user experience. This is almost similar to going on a real-life walkthrough.

Clients also connect with the property and establish connections with properties and realtors before visiting them in person. Aside from making your clients happy and satisfied, this can also increase your marketing ROI quickly. Realistic 3D landscape renders and designs can leave a strong positive first impression among clients. For example, animated walkthroughs of real estate properties are an ideal way to boost your marketing campaigns and materials and allow your clients to envision the appearance of their future homes. These renders are powerful marketing tools, and realtors can use them to promote their properties on various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and even TV.

Enhanced property overview

3D landscape rendering and design help architects, engineers, constructors, and interior designers better understand the property. They offer a better and more detailed property overview. Then, everyone involved in the project can understand the property’s strengths and weaknesses and its best and worst features. They can also identify defects and errors and make the necessary changes on the fly without significantly increasing the property’s value.

After getting all parties on the same page, it becomes easier to save money and time while ensuring a safer and more accurate construction process. With this improved overview of the property, you won’t have to leave anything to chance, allowing you to add more value to it in the future. While creating 3D landscape renders and designs may initially require more time, the long-term benefits in terms of efficiency and accuracy can outweigh this initial investment.

3D landscape rendering services can help realtors close more deals by allowing people to envision the property before construction. They can use lifelike 3D landscape rendering and design to showcase every nook and corner of the property, significantly improving the chances of selling. This optimistic outlook can help realtors tap into a more significant number of customers, leading to increased revenues and sales down the road.

RELATED: What does it Cost to Hire a Landscape Design Architect Expert for your Company?

Customers love and appreciate new technologies

Businesses that want to appeal to and reach wider audiences should use new technologies. This will help them tap into more prospects by using their preferred communication channels when connecting with them. In addition to attracting more clients, these new technologies focus more on the customers. The same goes for 3D landscape rendering, which is immensely eye-catching and immersive.

Aside from helping attract more potential clients, these renders also allow realtors to make the most of new software tools and technologies. Despite the perception that they may require advanced technical skills, many 3D landscape rendering and design software are user-friendly and intuitive, making them accessible even for those without extensive design experience. Realtors can use them to craft more customer-centric marketing materials and advertising campaigns.

3D landscape rendering and design also offer a pervasive array of 3D effects that are more engaging, immersive, and attention-grabbing compared to simple traditional 2D images. New rendering programs have advanced features that let realtors present the most realistic representations to clients that can breathe life into their concepts and ideas. With the help of software tools that offer AR, VR, and AI features, you can give your clients a chance to go on virtual tours around the properties to make an excellent first impression and persuade them. This is something you can’t achieve with just video presentations alone in this modern day.

RELATED: Architectural VR/AR 3D Rendering Costs, Rates & 3D Modeling Pricing for Design Firms

Demand for visual advertising

It’s been discovered that visual advertising makes customers more inclined to form a psychological connection with ads. Using visual advertising can even boost sales several notches. However, remember that you still need professional 3D landscape rendering and design to achieve this effect and leave a great impression on customers. Real estate professionals can use photorealistic renders to give stakeholders some freedom and let them experiment with the images when and as they want. 3D landscape rendering lets clients make changes even at the last minute if necessary.

The properties’ 3D visuals can also be resized to fit into the available space for your ads on different marketing channels. You can create gorgeous visual ads and scale them down or up to suit any advertising size. This lets you tap into specific markets and capture the interest of broader audiences by reaching out to them on a more personalized level.

With all the different advertising and marketing options you can use to your advantage, you can approach every market more precisely and ensure increased sales, revenues, and ROI. It can also work wonders for the visibility and presentation of your brand. Despite the initial investment, 3D landscape rendering and design can be a cost-effective solution in the long run. See that your visuals adhere to the proper scaling and sizing requirements, as these may vary from one channel to another.

Provide quotes easily

You must present more than just rough sketches, draughts, and 2D drawings and expect them to justify the cost of luxury properties. Comprehensive 3D landscape rendering makes it easier to give quotes and justify the high price tags. They also simplify the process of selling properties. 3D landscape rendering and design offer clients a complete overview of the property, helping them understand the factors and features that drive its high value.

3D landscape renders also offer invaluable education and knowledge about building materials, helping clients better understand the value of their investments. Meanwhile, realtors who want to sell a property must show the neighborhood’s beauty, location, and surrounding environment. This offers a holistic understanding of every unique feature, including fancy landscapes, nearby schools, underground parking, and distinct architecture. Once these elements are combined, it becomes easier for potential buyers to understand their future investments’ accurate price and value. Giving them the chance to see precisely what they will pay for makes it almost effortless to provide quotes. Rather than merely showing off the property and giving them a quote upfront, you can evoke genuine emotions in your clients that will help you get closer to closing the deal.

Simplified storytelling

3D landscape rendering images can tell a story in ways most people can’t probably imagine. As far as real estate is concerned, these images help present your business’ mission. Modern homeowners and clients no longer enjoy listening to simple storytelling about your brand, goals, and others. They need and expect more than this.

Clients expect vivid visualizations that evoke real emotions and convey the message quickly. Each company has a story to tell that targets enticing a specific audience, with 3D landscape rendering making it easier for you to tell a story in a way that best resonates with your clients. This is a highly effective means of enticing them to your skills, potential, ads, and the like.

How Cad Crowd can help

Cad Crowd is the leading resource for the best 3D landscape rendering and design professionals who can help your architectural firm or real estate business get the much-needed boost in sales.

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ASLA Professional Practice Networks’ Blog

Help shape the future of landscape architecture.

A vibrant community of volunteers are the heart of ASLA’s culture of collaboration : we are devoted to the encouragement of volunteerism and benefiting from the expertise and creativity of members who give their time and energies to advance the Society and the profession.

If you are ready to take your professional journey to the next level, volunteering for a National ASLA committee offers an unparalleled opportunity to grow, lead, and make a tangible impact on the landscape architecture community.

What’s in it for you?

• Leadership Development and Professional Growth: Committee service is a powerful stepping stone for your leadership journey. You’ll hone your skills, take on new challenges, and develop your expertise while contributing to initiatives that shape our profession.
• Networking and Connections: Expand your professional network by collaborating with like-minded peers and industry leaders. These connections can lead to new opportunities, mentorship, and lifelong friendships.
• Insight into ASLA Operations: Gain a behind-the-scenes look at how ASLA works. Understand the strategic decisions that drive our organization and contribute your voice to the process.
• Team Collaboration: ASLA thrives on teamwork. As a committee member, you’ll work closely with passionate professionals who share your commitment to advancing the field of landscape architecture.

Why are committees important?

Our committees are the backbone of ASLA’s mission. They drive the initiatives that support our members, promote the profession, and influence policy. Your participation helps ensure that our projects and programs reflect the diverse needs and perspectives of our community.

Together, we can achieve great things!

The next National ASLA committee term is October 9, 2024 – October 13, 2025. Most committee terms are one year. Please review the committee descriptions for more information on committee term length, goals, and responsibilities. Apply online by August 9, 2024.

Volunteer for an ASLA Committee

If you don’t see a committee that’s a good fit for you, friendly reminder that ASLA members may volunteer to join your Professional Practice Network’s leadership team at any time.

Need further convincing to apply? See what Paige Bernhardt, ASLA, PLA, has to say about her experience volunteering. Paige is a Student Support and Engagement Committee member, Women in Landscape Architecture Professional Practice Network leader, and serves on the Board of Directors for ASLA’s Wisconsin Chapter:

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ASLA Outstanding Service Awards

The ASLA Outstanding Service Award program recognizes ASLA member volunteers—often committee members and PPN leaders—who are making notable contributions to or on behalf of the Society at the national level.

Each year, ASLA celebrates volunteers whose dedication goes above and beyond the call of duty at the ASLA Conference on Landscape Architecture , when the awards are presented by ASLA’s president.

ASLA trustees, committee and Professional Practice Network (PPN) chairs and members, ASLA representatives, and other volunteers involved in the work of the Society at the national level are eligible for the award.

Recipients have included:

• 2023: Bryce Carnehl, Corporate ASLA, Aida Curtis, FASLA, Lara Moffat, ASLA, and Krista Van Hove, ASLA
• 2022: Madeline Kirschner, Associate ASLA, Kristina Snyder, ASLA, Alexa Vaughn, ASLA, and Amy Wagenfeld, Affiliate ASLA
• 2021: Pamela Conrad, ASLA, and Adriana Hernandez Aguirre, Associate ASLA
• 2020: Maggie Aravena, ASLA, Charles Kene Okigbo, ASLA, Glenn LaRue Smith, FASLA, and Galen S. Drake, FASLA
• 2019: David Cutter, FASLA, and April Westcott, FASLA
• 2018: Lisa Casey (Horne), ASLA, and Thomas Nieman, FASLA
• 2017: Joni Emmons, Associate ASLA, Patricia O’Donnell, FASLA, and Jean Senechal Biggs, ASLA
• 2016: Daniel Martin, Hon. ASLA, and Emily O’Mahoney, FASLA
• 2015: James D. Burnett, FASLA, Stephanie Rolley, FASLA, and Chris Stevens, ASLA
• 2014: Dean Hill, ASLA, Christine Pattillo, FASLA, Juanita Shearer-Swink, FASLA, and David Yocca, FASLA
• 2013: Eugenia Martin, FASLA, Dalton LaVoie, ASLA, Bill Kuhl, FASLA, Timothy Toland, ASLA, and Dick Powell, FASLA

The 2024 call for nominations for the ASLA Outstanding Service Award program is open now through August 9. Nominations may be made by members of the Executive Committee, committee chairs, PPN chairs, and National ASLA staff. Please contact [email protected] if interested in submitting a nomination.

Thank you to all the volunteers who help make ASLA the creative, constructive, effective force we are in every corner of the country!

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CISO Collective

New and Emerging Cybersecurity Threats and Attacker Tactics

As cyberthreats continue to evolve nearly four decades after the first computer virus for PCs emerged in 1986, the cybersecurity landscape faces increasingly sophisticated challenges. While many are familiar with common threats like phishing and ransomware, newer, more targeted attacks are emerging, threatening the very foundations of our digital infrastructure.

In this post, we explore these emerging threats, focusing on supply chain risks, open-source software vulnerabilities, and the integration of generative AI (GenAI) into business operations. We’ll also discuss strategic defense tactics that organizations can adopt to stay ahead of these evolving challenges.

Supply Chain Cyber Risks

Recent incidents have underscored the devastating potential of supply chain attacks. One alarming example is the XZ Utils backdoor (CVE-2024-3094), a critical vulnerability found in a widely used open-source compression tool. This attack, led by the “Jia Tan” account, was a multi-year operation that began in 2021 and culminated in deploying a backdoor in 2024. Over time, the attackers embedded their exploit into the software, demonstrating how deeply supply chain attacks can infiltrate and exploit foundational software used across numerous organizations.

This incident serves as a critical reminder for organizations to scrutinize the security of their software supply chain. Open-source components can be weak links often maintained by small and underfunded teams. Organizations must monitor updates and patches to avoid introducing new vulnerabilities.

Open-Source Software Issues

The XZ Utils incident highlights broader concerns within the open-source community. Malicious actors can insert backdoors into open-source projects with alarming ease. The Jia Tan account is just one example of how suspicious accounts can fly under the radar, quietly injecting malicious code into widely used software packages.

A recent analysis revealed that even PIP, the Python package management system, has a suspicious account with commit access. This raises serious concerns about the security of numerous critical Python packages. These accounts often make seemingly innocent contributions but could lay the groundwork for future exploits. This situation underscores the need for greater vigilance and verification within the open-source community. Organizations relying on open-source software must implement strict vetting processes and use tools to monitor and alert them to suspicious activity within their codebases.

The Promise and Perils of GenAI

GenAI offers transformative potential, as demonstrated by Klarna’s AI Assistant, which now handles the workload equivalent to 700 customer service agents. For Klarna , this translates into an estimated $40 million in annual savings, showcasing AI’s ability to enhance productivity and reduce operational costs.

However, the integration of GenAI comes with risks. Executives need to ensure that cybersecurity is a foundational consideration when adopting AI solutions. GenAI systems can be vulnerable to various threats, such as data poisoning, where attackers feed misleading data into AI systems, resulting in incorrect outputs. Additionally, these systems can face denial-of-service attacks, increasing costs and degrading performance, or privacy breaches where sensitive data is exposed.

Three key considerations when integrating GenAI are availability, system integrity, and privacy. Ensuring these aspects are robustly managed will help mitigate the risks associated with deploying AI systems at scale.

Best Strategic Defense Tactics against Cyberattacks

Organizations must adopt a multi-layered defense strategy to navigate this complex threat landscape. Here are some critical components:

1. Proactive security testing: red and blue team exercises

Red and blue team exercises simulate real-world cyberattacks, helping organizations uncover vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. For AI systems , these exercises should focus on assessing the robustness of models against harms such as hallucination, bias, and prohibited content like harassment. Organizations can stay ahead of potential threats by continuously evaluating and improving the security and ethical performance of AI systems.

2. AI-specific security measures, start leveraging ATLAS

Addressing AI-specific threats is crucial as AI becomes more integrated into business processes. Adversarial Threat Landscape for Artificial-Intelligence Systems ( ATLAS ) is a knowledge base complementary to MITRE ATT&CK that documents real-world adversarial tactics against AI systems. Organizations should use ATLAS to stay informed about these evolving threats and improve their defenses against attacks targeting AI technologies.

3. Zero-trust architecture, the journey to better access control

Adopting a zero-trust architecture is crucial in today’s environment, especially for systems integrating AI. This approach operates on the principle that no entity—whether inside or outside the network—should be trusted by default. Continuous verification of user identities and strict access controls are foundational elements.

However, for AI systems, data boundaries are equally important. AI models often process vast amounts of sensitive data, and ensuring that this data is adequately segmented and protected is critical. Establishing clear data boundaries prevents unauthorized access to sensitive information, reducing the risk of data leakage or manipulation. This is particularly vital in AI systems where data integrity directly impacts the outputs and decisions made by the AI.

By implementing a zero-trust architecture with strong data boundary controls, organizations can ensure that their AI systems operate securely, protecting both the data they process and the insights they generate.

The evolving threat landscape demands that organizations remain vigilant and proactive in their cybersecurity efforts. Organizations can better protect their digital assets by understanding the risks associated with supply chain vulnerabilities, open-source software, and the integration of GenAI, as well as by implementing strategic defense tactics. Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue. It’s a critical component of overall business strategy that requires attention at every level of the organization.

Check out Fortinet’s  Brass Tacks- Talking Cybersecurity podcast  covering other top-of-mind topics for cybersecurity business leaders

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How cyber risks have become business risks, how to speak to the board so they get on board with security, what cisos need to know about secure by design, news & articles.

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