BBB Tip: Finding the right landscaping and lawn care pro can save you time, money – WSIL TV

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (BBB) -- A beautiful lawn can be both appealing and environmentally friendly, but it can take a lot of work and be a tricky project to do yourself. Caring for a yard under the best of circumstances can still be challenging; extended periods of extreme weather, dull lawnmower blades, bugs, pests, and heavy foot traffic can all lead to a lawn that needs extra care.

Lawn care generally falls into three categories: landscaping, lawn maintenance, and sprinkler systems. Before selecting a business, evaluate your needs. Some businesses specialize in one area, while others offer a variety of services.

LANDSCAPING: Landscaping businesses design landscapes for designated areas, select the appropriate plants, and provide and install the plants.

LAWN MAINTENANCE: Services generally include mowing, edging, weeding of flower beds, treating for insect disease, weed control, trimming of shrubs, irrigation systems checks, and fertilizing.

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS/IRRIGATION: Services provided by sprinkler system businesses include design installation and general maintenance and repair. Check with your state or province to see if there are special licenses required to do this work.

There are many things that your lawn might need depending on the season. This can include pH testing, aerating the soil, fertilization, filling in bald spots, trimming back overgrowth, and planting seasonal flowers and plants. While many consumers choose to make lawn maintenance a do-it-yourself project, there are those that prefer to leave it to the professionals. Hiring a landscape contractor or lawn maintenance service gives homeowners the professional help they need.

The BBB offers the following tips when considering hiring a lawn care professional:

Read more from the original source:
BBB Tip: Finding the right landscaping and lawn care pro can save you time, money - WSIL TV