Lawn Care & Landscaping Costs by Season
From weekly mowing to a full landscape redesign, here’s what lawn care costs through the year and how to budget for each season.
Updated July 10, 2026 · 6 min read
Lawn and landscape spending is really several different budgets: routine maintenance, seasonal cleanups, and bigger one-time projects like design and installation. Knowing the going rates for each helps you plan the year and spot a quote that’s padded — or suspiciously cheap.
Here’s what to expect through the seasons in 2026, and how to compare landscaping quotes.
Routine maintenance
Ongoing care is usually billed per visit or on a monthly plan:
- Mowing (average lot): $40–$90 per visit; less per visit on a seasonal contract.
- Full-service monthly plan (mow, edge, blow, trim): $150–$400 / month.
- Fertilization & weed control program: $300–$700 per year in 4–6 applications.
- Aeration & overseeding: $150–$400 per service.
Seasonal projects
These cluster around spring and fall:
- Spring cleanup: $200–$600.
- Fall leaf cleanup: $200–$700, depending on tree cover.
- Mulch installation: $75–$120 per cubic yard installed.
- Seasonal planting (annuals/perennials): $500–$2,000 depending on beds.
Bigger landscape investments
One-time projects that add lasting value:
- Sod installation: $1–$2 per sq ft.
- New landscape design & planting: $3,000–$15,000+ depending on scope.
- Retaining walls, patios and hardscape: $15–$50+ per sq ft.
- Irrigation system install: $2,500–$6,000 for an average yard.
How to compare landscaper quotes
For recurring work, compare what’s actually in the visit (does "mowing" include edging, trimming, and blowing off hard surfaces?) and whether it’s a per-visit or seasonal price. For projects, insist on a plan or drawing, a plant/material list, and who’s responsible if new plantings don’t survive the first season — a good landscaper will offer some establishment guarantee.
Frequently asked questions
Is a seasonal contract cheaper than per-visit?
Usually yes — committing to the season lowers the per-visit rate and guarantees you a spot on the route. It also smooths your budget into predictable monthly payments.
How often should my lawn be mowed?
Most lawns need weekly mowing in peak growing season and every 10–14 days in slower months. Cutting no more than one-third of the blade height at a time keeps grass healthiest.
When should I fertilize?
It depends on your grass type and climate, but most programs run 4–6 applications from early spring through fall. A local pro will time it to your region and grass species.
What adds the most value?
Clean, healthy turf plus defined beds with fresh mulch gives the biggest curb-appeal return for the money. Hardscape and mature plantings add long-term value but cost more upfront.
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