If your yard needs work, you might be wondering: Should I call a landscaper or a tree service? While both professions deal with outdoor spaces, they have distinct roles, expertise, and equipment. Hiring the right professional can save you time, money, and potential headaches. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between landscapers and tree service professionals so you know who to call for your specific needs.
What Do Landscapers Do?
Landscapers focus on the overall aesthetic and functionality of outdoor spaces. Their work includes designing, planting, and maintaining landscapes to enhance curb appeal and create enjoyable outdoor environments. Landscapers typically handle:
- Lawn care – Mowing, fertilizing, aerating, and overseeding.
- Planting and garden design – Choosing and installing flowers, shrubs, and trees.
- Hardscaping – Installing patios, walkways, retaining walls, and decorative features.
- Irrigation systems – Designing and maintaining sprinkler systems.
- Mulching and edging – Enhancing soil health and defining landscape borders.
- Seasonal cleanups – Raking leaves, pruning plants, and preparing landscapes for different seasons.
If your goal is to improve the visual appeal and organization of your yard, a landscaper is the right choice. They ensure that your property looks well-maintained and inviting year-round.
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What Do Tree Service Professionals Do?
Tree service companies specialize in the care, maintenance, and removal of trees. These professionals are trained to handle tree health, safety concerns, and storm-related damage. Common tree services include:
- Tree pruning and trimming – Removing dead or overgrown branches to promote healthy growth and prevent hazards.
- Tree removal – Safely cutting down trees that are diseased, damaged, or too close to structures.
- Stump grinding and removal – Eliminating unsightly or hazardous tree stumps.
- Tree health assessments – Diagnosing diseases, pest infestations, and structural problems.
- Emergency storm damage response – Removing fallen or damaged trees after severe weather.
- Lot clearing – Preparing land for construction or landscaping projects by removing unwanted trees and brush.
Tree service professionals use specialized equipment such as chainsaws, cranes, and stump grinders, ensuring that tree-related tasks are done safely and efficiently.
Key Differences Between Landscapers and Tree Services
| Feature | Landscapers | Tree Services |
| Primary Focus | Aesthetic and functional landscaping | Tree care, health, and removal |
| Tasks | Lawn care, planting, irrigation, hardscaping | Pruning, removal, stump grinding, emergency response |
| Equipment | Lawn mowers, trimmers, rakes, irrigation tools | Chainsaws, cranes, stump grinders |
| Safety Concerns | Minimal (e.g., pesticide handling) | High (e.g., tree climbing, heavy equipment use) |
| Best for… | General landscape design and maintenance | Tree-specific care and hazard prevention |
Who Should You Call?
- If you need regular lawn maintenance, flower beds designed, or a patio installed → Call a landscaper.
- If you have an overgrown tree, a sick tree, or a tree that needs removal → Call a tree service.
- If a tree has fallen after a storm and needs immediate attention → Call an emergency tree service.
- If your landscaping project involves both plants and trees → You may need both professionals to collaborate.
When Landscapers and Tree Services Work Together
Some outdoor projects require both landscapers and tree specialists. For example:
- A new home build may need tree removal before landscape design can begin.
- A yard renovation may require stump grinding before sod or flower beds can be installed.
- A diseased tree in a well-manicured garden may need specialized treatment before it affects surrounding plants.
In these cases, hiring both professionals ensures your outdoor space is safe, beautiful, and functional.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between landscapers and tree service professionals helps you make informed decisions about your yard. Whether you’re enhancing curb appeal, removing hazardous trees, or designing a brand-new landscape, hiring the right expert for the job is crucial.
Need expert help with your landscaping or tree care? Contact a professional today and transform your outdoor space with confidence!
