Top Landscaping Contractors in Ontario, California Ranked

Transforming your outdoor space in Ontario requires a blend of creative vision and practical expertise. Landscaping contractors are the professionals who bring this vision to life, managing everything from initial design and soil preparation to the installation of plants, patios, and irrigation systems. A well-executed landscape design not only boosts your property's curb appeal and value but also creates a personal oasis for relaxation and entertainment. This guide will help you understand the process, costs, and key considerations for hiring a landscape professional in the Ontario area, empowering you to make informed decisions for your project.

Environmental Green Tree Care/ Killelea Landscape

333 W Broadway #1206, Anaheim, CA 92815

Environmental Green Tree Care/ Killelea Landscape is a landscaping and tree service company serving Los Angeles, CA. Since 1976, they have provided residential and commercial landscaping design, tree removal, stump grinding, and maintenance services. Their team is experienced in creating customized landscape solutions and managing tree care projects with professional insight and practical approaches.

5.0

267 Reviews

Rp Synthetic Turf

7740 Edison Ave #103, Fontana, CA 92336

Rp Synthetic Turf is a landscaping and hardscaping contractor based in Los Angeles, CA, specializing in artificial turf installation, custom putting greens, and landscape design. They provide full-service design and build solutions for residential and commercial outdoor spaces, focusing on creating maintenance-free, realistic synthetic lawns and tailored landscape features. Their expertise includes high-quality synthetic turf products and custom hardscape elements such as pavers and retaining walls. The company emphasizes personalized service and craftsmanship, with a history of positive client feedback highlighting their attention to detail and project management.

5.0

142 Reviews

Lawnscape Systems, Inc.

5215 State St, Montclair, CA 91763

Lawnscape Systems, Inc. is a lawn care and landscaping company based in Los Angeles, CA, serving Southern California including Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, Ventura, and San Diego counties. They offer a range of services such as fertilization, weed control, lawn pest control, aeration, overseeding, and commercial landscaping. With over 45 years of experience since 1979, Lawnscape Systems provides tailored lawn care programs designed to maintain healthy lawns year-round. Their capabilities include specialized fertilization, broadleaf weed control, disease and insect treatments, and weed abatement using herbicides and soil sterilants to protect lawns from pests and invasive grasses.

4.9

190 Reviews

System Pavers

1730 W Cameron Ave #200, West Covina, CA 91790

System Pavers is a landscaping and hardscaping company based in Los Angeles, CA. They specialize in designing and installing outdoor living spaces including paver driveways, patios, artificial turf, decks, and outdoor lighting. The company offers personalized design consultations and uses premium materials backed by industry-leading warranties. With over 30 years of experience since 1992, System Pavers provides durable and customizable outdoor solutions that add value to properties.

4.9

105 Reviews

Oasis Turf & Hardscape

11801 Pierce St Ste 200, Riverside, CA 92505

Oasis Turf & Hardscape is a landscaping and hardscaping company serving Los Angeles, CA, and the broader Southern California region including Inland Empire and Orange County. They specialize in artificial turf installation, custom pavers, putting greens, and concrete services. With over 10 years of experience, this veteran-owned business offers eco-conscious synthetic grass solutions designed for low maintenance and year-round greenery. Their certified team manages the entire installation process, from site preparation to finishing touches, helping homeowners create durable and attractive outdoor spaces.

4.8

330 Reviews

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Understanding the Landscaping Process

A successful landscape installation follows a structured path from idea to ongoing maintenance. Knowing these steps helps set expectations and ensures a smoother collaboration with your chosen contractor.

Initial Consultation & Needs Assessment This first meeting is about aligning visions. You'll discuss your goals-whether it's enhancing curb appeal, creating an entertainment area, or developing a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant garden. Be prepared to talk about your budget, style preferences (like a California-friendly xeriscape or a more traditional look), and how you intend to use the space ^{1 2}. A good landscape designer or contractor will listen and offer preliminary ideas based on your property's potential.

Design Phase While optional, a professional design plan is highly recommended, especially for complex projects. This phase involves creating detailed 2D or 3D drawings that map out the layout, plant selections, materials, and features like patios, walkways, and lighting ^{1 3}. Investing in a design, which typically costs between $1,500 and $5,000+, provides a clear blueprint that prevents misunderstandings and cost overruns during installation ^{1 4}. It's the roadmap that ensures everyone is on the same page.

Site Analysis & Preparation Before any work begins, a thorough site analysis is conducted. Your contractor will assess soil quality, sun exposure patterns, drainage issues, and existing structures or plants ^{5 6}. This critical step informs plant choices and identifies any necessary prep work, such as grading or soil amendment, to ensure the long-term health of your new landscape.

Material & Plant Selection Choosing the right materials and plants is where your project's personality and practicality come together. In Ontario's climate, selecting drought-tolerant and native plants is not only environmentally responsible but also reduces long-term water and maintenance costs ^{1 7}. Your contractor can guide you toward durable materials for hardscaping that fit both your aesthetic and budget.

Proposal, Contract & Installation You will receive a detailed proposal outlining the scope of work, materials, timeline, labor, and payment schedule. Once approved, installation begins. This stage encompasses site preparation, hardscaping construction (if applicable), planting, irrigation system setup, and adding the final touches that bring the design to life ^{3 8}.

Maintenance Planning A beautiful landscape needs care to stay that way. Discuss a maintenance plan with your contractor, which may include services like mowing, trimming, weeding, seasonal clean-ups, and irrigation system checks ². Many offer ongoing maintenance contracts to keep your yard looking its best year-round.

Breaking Down Landscaping Costs in Ontario

Landscape project costs can vary widely based on size, scope, and materials. Understanding the common pricing structures helps in budgeting effectively.

Common Pricing Models

• Hourly Rates: For basic maintenance tasks like mowing, weeding, and pruning, contractors often charge between $50 and $100 per hour^{1 5}.
• Per Square Foot: This is common for installation projects. A basic installation of lawn and simple planting beds may range from $4 to $12 per square foot. A full tear-out and remodel involving complex elements can cost $10 to $40 per square foot^{1 2 4}.
• Design Fees: As mentioned, professional design services are a separate investment, typically ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the project's complexity ^{1 4}.

Key Cost Drivers Several factors significantly influence the final price of your landscaping project in Ontario:

• Project Scale & Complexity: The size of your yard is a primary factor. More importantly, the inclusion of hardscaping-such as patios, walkways, retaining walls, or outdoor kitchens-is a major cost driver that can add thousands to the project ^{3 4}.
• Material Choices: The cost of plants, stone, pavers, and soil amendments varies greatly. Premium materials will increase your budget.
• Site Conditions: Difficult terrain, poor soil, or the need for significant grading or drainage work will add to labor and material costs ⁵.
• Contractor Expertise: Established, highly-specialized landscape architects or design-build firms often command higher fees due to their experience, design skill, and quality of workmanship.

Smart Budgeting & Cost-Saving Strategies

You can achieve a stunning yard without breaking the bank. Strategic planning and smart choices make all the difference.

Prioritize and Phase Your Project If you have a large vision but a limited budget, consider phasing the project over multiple seasons. Start with foundational elements like soil improvement, tree planting, or a key hardscape feature, and add gardens or decorative elements in later phases ⁶.

Embrace Low-Water, Native Landscaping Opting for a California-friendly or xeriscape design centered on native, drought-tolerant plants is one of the smartest long-term savings strategies. These plants require less water, fewer fertilizers, and less maintenance, reducing both your utility bills and ongoing care costs ^{1 7 9}.

Choose Cost-Effective Materials For hardscaping, materials like gravel, decomposed granite, or concrete pavers can be more budget-friendly than natural stone or high-end porcelain. Mulch is an inexpensive and highly effective material for weed suppression, moisture retention, and giving planting beds a finished look ⁶.

Focus on High-Impact Areas Concentrate your budget on areas that provide the most visual impact or utility. Often, the front yard (curb appeal) or a key backyard entertainment zone offers the best return on investment and enjoyment.

Choosing the Right Landscape Professional

Selecting a contractor is the most important decision you'll make. Look for licensed, insured professionals with a portfolio of completed projects in the Ontario area. Read reviews, ask for references, and ensure they provide detailed, written contracts. A trustworthy contractor will communicate clearly, answer all your questions, and help you navigate the balance between your dream design and your budget.

Frequently asked questions

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