Commercial landscape and maintenance companies are in a competitive market. There are 661,000 landscaping companies in the U.S., all competing for a share of a $153 billion market.
How can your business stand out? One effective strategy is to understand current trends in landscaping. Clients will be aware of these trends and often actively seek landscapers and facilities maintenance companies that can provide these newly popular features.
Not only can implementing these ideas help you get more business, but they could also potentially increase the value of your company. This could be beneficial if you are hoping to sell your business in the future.
Here are four current trends in landscaping.
Sustainability
Sustainable landscaping involves using environmentally friendly practices to design and care for outdoor areas. Landscapers might plant grasses and flowers naturally immune to common diseases and pests. They might also use natural fertilizers and weed control methods instead of relying on chemicals.
Sustainable practices can also have practical benefits. For instance, they lower costs by conserving resources like water and limiting ongoing maintenance needs.
Use of Native Plants
A related trend involves using native plants in landscaping. This type of foliage thrives in the local ecosystem without human intervention. They won’t get choked by weeds or can survive in their native environment without mulch, fertilizers, or extensive pruning.
Automated Irrigation and Water Management
Automated irrigation systems can bring just the right amount of water to plants and grasses. They can water the landscape on a predefined schedule or use sensors to tell the system when the soil is too dry. This trend is an example of landscaping businesses using technology to support sustainability efforts and reduce waste and overspending on landscaping maintenance.
Vertical Gardening
Vertical gardening is popular in commercial settings with a lack of natural space. Landscapers use shelving, pot towers, or trellises to place plants and flowers vertically instead of along the ground.
This approach is often possible in both indoor and outdoor spaces. Vertical gardening can work in urban areas or inside or outside of office buildings, shopping malls, or other built environments.
Why Do Commercial Clients Like These Trends?
There are a few reasons. Many large companies are increasingly focused on sustainability. Two-thirds of large firms have sustainability reporting practices. These companies typically seek landscapers who can offer sustainable options that do not require heavy watering or chemical fertilizers.
Commercial clients also want to cut their operating budgets. Automated irrigation and easy-to-care-for native plants cut water and maintenance costs.
With knowledge of these landscaping business trends, you can create offerings to attract lucrative commercial contacts. These can help you increase the value of your company or make it more attractive to potential buyers.
If you are looking to sell or merge with another company that can enhance your landscaping services, consider The Batallan Group. We specialize in finding small or mid-size businesses with strong performance and growth potential. Reach out to us today to learn more.