How to Charge for Garden Services

Charging for garden services is like most other ventures, you may be required to obtain a license and set up a business name. It is a relatively easy business to get into and many people are willing to pay for garden services.

• Check local laws regarding licensing for gardeners and obtain any that are needed. The first step to charging for anything is to understand your local laws and state requirements.


• Decide what services you will offer and if you will charge a flat rate or hourly. Many services offer packages (price is based on individual gardens) and charge a flat rate. Customers sign a maintenance contract for the year.


• Research local landscapers; keep in mind that prices vary from state to state. Find out how your competition is charging and how much. Are you able to offer a service that they are not? You pricing should be in the middle of everyone else. If your pricing is low, customers wonder if something is wrong. If your prices are high no one will pay it.


• Advertise your business and offer onsite estimates. By not pricing a job until you have seen the landscape you can feel secure that you are charging the right price.


• Offer flat rates for specific jobs such as stump removal, application of fertilizer. By offering flat rate jobs, you will also gain business from occasional clients who prefer to do their own work. These are the people who will hire you to trim a tree or handle the tough jobs.