12 Landscaping Business Ideas to Start in 2025 (With Profit Potential)

Lawn mowing and maintenance 

Mowing is one of the easiest landscaping services to launch. It’s also one of the most reliable sources of recurring work in residential areas with lots of homeowners. 

With low startup costs and the ability to predictably book weekly or bi-weekly clients, lawn mowing is the perfect option for building recurring income fast.

Plus, this service is a great entry point for new landscaping business owners who may not have as much experience with harder-to-learn services. Get started with minimal equipment (a mower, weed eater, and basic trailer will do), then increase your revenue by offering simple add-ons like trimming or edging.

Revenue potential: $30–$80 per lawn

Hardscaping services 

Hardscaping involves designing and building permanent features like patios, walkways, and retaining walls. It’s a higher-value service that’s ideal for skilled solo operators or small teams with experience in masonry and yard construction. 

As an added perk, hardscaping projects like patios and retaining walls can offer higher payouts per job. 

With hardscaping, you’ll be able to design and provide impressive results to your clients—all while building a portfolio that you can use to attract new business or gain referrals.

Revenue potential: $3,000–$15,000 per project

Garden landscaping and design 

Garden landscaping and design is quickly becoming a go-to service for homeowners who want outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and functional. From raised beds and herb gardens to fruit trees and edible landscapes, this landscaping niche blends aesthetic appeal with everyday function. It’s especially popular with families, foodies, and clients who are mindful about the environment.

If you enjoy planting food and being creative, it’s also a rewarding way to differentiate your business from basic lawn care providers. 

Projects can range from small backyard installations to full edible garden layouts, with revenue potential that increases based on how customized each garden design is—and how much prep is required to get a space ready for planting.

Revenue potential: $500 to $5,000+ per job (depending on garden size)

Vertical and rooftop gardens 

Vertical and rooftop gardens are a growing niche that helps your landscaping business stand out, especially if your service area includes cities or urban areas. 

Eco-friendly, space-saving designs are perfect for clients with limited outdoor space. They can be visually appealing for apartments and condos, and even provide a practical solution for windowsill or balcony gardening.

Revenue potential: $500 to $5,000 per project (varies by rooftop or balcony size)

Water feature installation 

Landscaping add-on services like koi ponds, fountains, or backyard waterfalls can significantly raise your project totals during any landscaping project.

These high-ticket jobs require planning and precision, but they can also double your profit margin, especially if you’re working on a full-yard renovation or overhaul.

Water feature installation is a great service for clients looking to enhance their outdoor space with something unique. However, be prepared to work around additional requirements, like plumbing or drainage, to make sure your finished project works well and meets specific requirements.

Revenue potential: $2,500–$10,000 per project

Lawn aeration and fertilization 

Lawn aeration and fertilization are simple add-on services that fit easily into your existing mowing routes. Most of the time, these services won’t require much additional equipment. 

In fact, you can easily offer them as standalone jobs or bundle them with lawn care packages for extra value. These seasonal services bring in high-margin returns and encourage repeat business for clients who want to maintain a thick, healthy lawn every year.

Pro Tip: Consider adding a service like this as a complimentary, one-time upgrade for new clients when they sign a recurring contract.

Revenue potential: $100–$250 per job

Weed and pest control 

Weed and pest control is a high-demand service that helps homeowners protect their lawns, gardens, and outdoor spaces—especially during the spring and summer months when growth and infestations are high. It’s a natural extension of lawn care and offers a steady revenue stream that can keep your calendar booked.

With the right certifications (which may be required depending on your location), you can position yourself as a knowledgeable, go-to expert in your area. This added layer of trust not only boosts your credibility but also opens the door to long-term client relationships and bundled service packages.

Pro Tip: Research your local or state pest control certifications to make sure you’re qualified or licensed to offer pest control services. Some locations may provide basic training or licensing so that you can do your job effectively. 

Revenue potential: $75-$200 per visit

READ MORE: How to start a pest control business

Outdoor lighting installation 

Well-placed landscape lighting boosts both safety and curb appeal—making it a win-win for your clients and your revenue goals. Lighting is a natural upsell to hardscaping or design jobs, and it’s an easy way to increase the total value of your projects.

Keep in mind that you may need some basic electrical skills to perform a complete installation. You can also subcontract with a local electrician to make sure any outdoor lighting project is up to code.

Revenue potential: $1,000 to $5,000+ per project (based on complexity and number of lights)

Tree care and pruning 

Tree care is another area that sees strong seasonal demand, particularly in locations prone to storms or with mature landscaping. Homeowners often need help with trimming, removal, or preventative maintenance, and they’re willing to pay a premium for safe, expert service.

While it does require proper equipment and training, the investment can pay off quickly with jobs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. You can also incorporate emergency services if clients need quick fixes after severe weather. 

Pruning (including trees and shrubs) is also a great niche for business owners who want to offer essential, year-round services that clients depend on.

Revenue potential: $200–$2,000 per job

READ MORE: How to become an arborist

Commercial landscaping 

Commercial landscaping is a good way to generate more income by branching beyond residential contracts and servicing larger clients like offices, schools, apartment complexes, and retail centers. 

These properties need regular upkeep and ground maintenance, making them ideal for long-term agreements, and good publicity for your company.

If you’re equipped to manage a team and handle multiple properties, commercial work is a smart way to scale quickly. Income depends on the property size and scope of work, but there are often upsell opportunities like snow removal, seasonal planting, or exterior lighting.

Revenue potential: $1,000-$10,000 per commercial property

Holiday lighting and seasonal decor 

Don’t let winter slow down your cash flow. Holiday lighting installs (including lights, inflatables, and other decorations) are quick, profitable, and often lead to repeat business year after year, making it one of the easiest seasonal add-ons to offer.

Holiday lighting and winter decor services help fill the revenue gap when lawn care slows down. As an added perk, this yard service keeps your brand top of mind with clients in the off-season.

Revenue potential: $500–$5,000+ per client 

READ MORE: How to start a Christmas light business

Xeriscaping services

Xeriscaping is a smart, stylish landscaping option for homeowners in dry or drought-prone areas looking to reduce water usage without sacrificing curb appeal. By using native plants, rock features, and strategic layouts, you can create low-maintenance landscapes that are both functional and visually striking.

If you enjoy creative design and want to build a reputation for eco-conscious work, xeriscaping is a great way to stand out. It also complements other sustainable services, making it a natural fit for clients who care about the environment and long-term upkeep.

Revenue potential: $500–$5,000+ per client

Pro Tip: If you’re focusing on sustainable business practices, it’s always a good idea to explore grants and small business programs. Based on your qualifications, you may be eligible for special funding or investment.

Why start a landscaping business?

Starting a landscaping business comes with plenty of benefits if you’re an eager entrepreneur: 

• Low startup costs: Many landscaping services only require a small investment in tools and equipment to get started. If you need more specialized equipment, you can explore renting to keep your initial operating costs low.
• Flexibility to specialize: Start with basic, easy-to-learn services that are simple to do or outsource to team members. Then, add specialized services as you grow your skills and client base. If you have a particular interest (like luxury hardscape design), don’t be afraid to explore it.
• Off-season income potential: Services like snow removal or holiday lighting can help you generate revenue even when recurring services like lawn mowing slow down. Even in an industry that operates mostly outside, there are plenty of ways to stay busy in cooler months.
• Opportunity to be your own boss: Landscaping offers the freedom to work for yourself, set your own schedule, and build a business that fits your goals and lifestyle. If you’re a self-starter who wants to stay active and independent, this provides a fitting outlet.
• Consistent demand: Landscaping services are always in need. From lawn care, seasonal cleanups, to design projects, you’ll find high demand consistently. Residential neighborhoods, commercial properties, and new developments all create steady opportunities for reliable work.

The landscaping industry is an excellent option for aspiring entrepreneurs who love to work outside, learn new skills, and provide practical and time-saving services to customers.

How to choose the right landscaping business idea

Choosing the right landscaping business idea is about building something that fits your lifestyle, skills, and goals. Here’s what to think about as you narrow down your options:

• Play to your strengths: Are you great at design? Comfortable with heavy-duty tools? Love working on native plants? Starting with services that align with your natural skills makes your day-to-day work more enjoyable and sets you up for success.
• Look around your area: What kinds of landscaping services are in demand where you live? Some regions need drought-tolerant landscaping, while others are big on lush, green lawns. Drive around your neighborhood or check out neighborhood Facebook groups to see what homeowners are asking for.
• Consider your equipment and crew size: If you’re working solo or with limited gear, stick to services like mowing, aeration, or yard maintenance. As you grow, you can invest in more equipment and take on larger projects like hardscaping and commercial properties.
• Think about income consistency: Some services—like lawn care or weed control—bring in steady, repeat income. Others, like water features or lighting installs, are higher tickets but happen less frequently. A mix of both can help you balance your cash flow and keep your schedule booked.

The best landscaping business is the one you can sustain. Start with what you have, focus on delivering great work to your clients, and build from there.

How to start a landscaping business the right way

Having a solid plan, smart systems, and a focus on customer experience can help you achieve your biggest business dreams faster. It all comes down to creating a strong foundation with the right processes, tools, and know-how. 

Here’s a basic roadmap to get you on the right path:

• Build a simple business plan: Outline your goals, target neighborhoods, pricing, and what you’ll need to get started. If you’re using a business plan to secure any up-front financing (like a small business loan), include basic information about you, any partners, and your basic plan for profitability.
• Define your services: Decide which lawn care services you’ll offer. Will you limit yourself to mowing, fertilization, or weed control, or go further? Focus on in-demand services that match your skills and local demand.
• Finalize the administrative tasks: Register your business, choose a landscaping name, and secure any necessary licenses or certifications required in your area. The best way to ace this step is to Google “YOUR STATE + small business registration requirements.”
• Build a professional website: A landscaping business website puts you on the map. It helps you attract leads, share helpful content, and build credibility. With Jobber, you can launch a professional site in minutes and start turning visitors into paying customers.
• Market locally and consistently: Market your presence both online and offline with flyers, social media, and word-of-mouth referrals. If you want to grow faster, focus on signing repeat clients with recurring services.
• Use the right tools to stay on top of everything: An all-in-one platform like Jobber helps you quote and bid on new jobs, schedule visits, manage clients, and collect payments easily and efficiently. With Jobber, you’ll spend less time juggling paperwork and more time providing top-tier service to your happy clients.

Remember—getting organized sooner means that you can focus on growing your business. Free up time to add new services, attract more repeat clients, or hire new team members to expand your schedule.