How much does a gardener cost?

If you’re thinking about starting a garden (or if you need help with maintenance), find out how much gardening services near you cost. From mulching and weed control to shrub and hedge trimming, this guide breaks down the cost of common gardening, lawn and landscaping services. 

You can also get a feel for pricing in your area by reaching out to local gardeners for cost estimates.

One of the most important factors in the price of a gardener is their hourly rate. While hourly rates vary depending on the area — urban vs. rural, high-demand vs. low-demand — they typically range from $25-$100 per hour, with an average rate of $40 per hour. 

Performing lawn maintenance, weeding, pruning, planting and trimming are all time-consuming tasks that require some expertise. Here’s a look at price examples of services offered by gardening professionals.

Lawn care service prices

You can expect to pay anywhere from $40-$431 for lawn services. For example, it costs between $35 and $135 for lawn mowing and trimming.

However, not all gardeners offer every single lawn service. If you can’t find a gardener who can mow your lawn, look for landscaping and lawn care services near you.

Leaf removal cost

Some landscaping and gardening companies also have leaf cleanup services. They can help you get rid of leaves by bagging, vacuuming, blowing or mulching. On average, leaf removal costs $30-$500.  

Mulching prices

Adding mulch is another common task gardeners perform, and it costs anywhere from $45-$750. Mulch is an important piece of garden design, and there are several reasons many people hire a gardener to take care of the application process. 

For example, it can be hot and sticky work, and knowing how to evenly distribute it is a skill that takes some practice. A professional lawn care service or gardener has the materials needed to distribute it.

Shrub trimming cost

Trimming and pruning your shrubs and hedges is an important part of gardening and landscaping. Pruning helps promote growth, control the shrub’s size and shape it. Shrub trimming costs $45-$900.

Sprinkler system installation cost

Every garden needs some sort of sprinkler or irrigation system, which can cost anywhere from $90-$5,650. If your gardener offers sprinkler installation services, talk to them about the different types of sprinkler systems that might be right for you. 

Also read: How to repair your sprinkler system. 

Tree and flower planting prices

Planting flowers and trees on your property is a true example of something that is both an art and a science. Tree planting services cost $47-$2,000, depending on the number of trees you want to plant and the species you select.

Rather than basing your selections on aesthetics alone, work with a gardener or landscaper. They have the expertise to help you choose vegetables, fruits, flowers, shrubs and other plants that work better for your terrain and climate. Your gardener can also help you select flowers, trees and plants that:

• Require less maintenance, pruning, and trimming.
• Attract hummingbirds or other birds
• Attract pollinators and repel pests 
• Grow well in your soil conditions or in the amount of sunlight available where you’ll be planting them

Weed control prices

If you dream of a healthy, lush lawn or a thriving and productive garden, sooner or later, you will need to contend with weeds. Weed control services cost $65-$90, on average, though this cost depends on the size of your yard, the scope of weeding needed and the amount of fertilizer required.

Weeding is tough work and requires lots of bending over, particularly in the garden. A weed problem can arise even in a healthy lawn with regular mowing, watering and leaf removal. Hiring a pro can help ensure your lawn and garden remains free of weeds.

When you’re considering hiring a gardener, the cost is first on the list of priorities. Consider the following factors in estimating how much your gardener is likely to charge you:

Types of services

The types of gardening services — weed control, mulching, planting, etc. — you require will contribute to the overall cost. If you have a limited budget and can’t afford a comprehensive package, consider the parts of gardening you’re less inclined to do alone. You can always choose one or two services and handle others yourself. For example, your gardener could weed and plant flowers, and you could mow the lawn.

Garden size

Your garden’s size can also have an impact on how much you’ll have to pay a gardener. Typically, the larger the garden, the more services it may require — and the more you pay.

Frequency

When it comes to gardening, it pays to go with regular service. Not only does hiring a gardener or lawn care service on a regular basis create better results, but companies often charge less per session for a recurring visit than for a one-off visit. Ask gardeners near you if they can provide rates for recurring services and one-time services before making your decision.

Add-ons

If you want to hire a landscape designer, install an in-ground sprinkler system, or otherwise redesign the aesthetic and function of your garden or yard, expect to pay more for these materials and services.

Gardener’s experience

You may find that a self-employed gardener charges differently than a larger business. When you encounter price differences, rely on resources like ratings, reviews and recommendations to determine if the extra cost or savings are worth it.

Although you may be tempted to DIY your garden entirely, consider the several benefits you can get by paying for a professional gardening service. For example:

• Boost your curb appeal. Your garden may be one of the first things potential buyers and assessors will notice in your yard, and it can play a significant role in their decisions.
• Get your time back. Gardening can require hours and hours of work. If you’re too busy to stay on top of maintaining your garden, your beautiful flowers and vegetables may wilt and die. 
• Get maintenance help. Starting a garden is one thing — maintaining it is another. A gardener can help you take care of your precious plants and crops, helping them flourish and withstand throughout the seasons. They can also give you maintenance tips for gardening tasks they're not providing.
• Avoid costly mistakes. Your gardener has the experience and knowledge to help avoid choosing the wrong plants and irrigation systems. 

How to hire a gardener

To hire a gardener, start your search on Thumbtack, where you can see a list of local gardeners in one place. Read their reviews, and browse through their online profiles. On their profiles, you can learn more about their areas of expertise and see photos of past gardening and landscaping projects they’ve worked on. 

When you start contacting gardeners, have your questions ready. For example, you’ll want to ask:

• Do you know which plants will survive in my climate?
• Do you provide free cost estimates? 
• How will you charge for regular (or weekly) service?

Make sure you give them a detailed description of your garden plans. For example, tell them your garden’s size, the types of plants you want and any issues you may be dealing with in your landscaping.

To find out how much you could be paying, compare price quotes from at least three different gardeners before your hire anyone. And confirm that your gardener is certified and licensed in your state.

Create that paradise right outside your door without the sweat, tears, and dirty fingernails — hire a gardener to do it right and make your property beautiful. Reach out to local gardeners to find the best fit for you.

Also read: How to garden (in every season).