October 4, 2021
Plant the seeds and grow your landscaping business with the right tools. We surveyed experienced landscapers to determine the best, most essential tools of the trade.
You can’t do your job without a lawn mower. Otherwise, there’s no way to maintain your clients’ grass.
But which lawn mower is right for your new business? Per our survey, the two most-recommended models are:
Whether you’ve just mowed the lawn or you need to clear away foliage and debris to begin landscaping, a backpack blower makes for easy cleanup.
As compared to a handheld leaf blower, a backpack blower is:
A must have lawn tool for several reasons:
According to our survey, the top three trimmers are:
Are you surprised to see a hammer on this list? This versatile tool isn’t just great for pounding and pulling nails. A hammer can help you break up rocky soil, drive in garden stakes, and complete other tasks. You’ll likely find yourself using it every day.
You’ll need a sturdy shovel to dig holes for landscaping elements, break up stubborn loam, and more.
Your shovel does it all—and without gas!
The favorite pick for seasoned landscapers? The Razor-Back 48 shovel. The fiberglass handle reduces the risk of splinters. On top of that, it is:
Another essential gardening tool. You need a rake on every job. It’s one of the best ways to clean up a job site after a long day of work.
You’ll always need a sharp pair of pruning shears to shape up plants like trees and shrubs. A good, heavy-duty hand pruner makes it possible to tame tough, thorny plants. But that doesn’t mean they have to feel heavy.
Felco Pruners are known for being sturdy yet easy to handle, even during long pruning sessions.
A measuring tape is great indoors—but rugged, uneven terrain requires a different tool entirely.
A measuring wheel allows you to measure outdoor spaces and make your plans accordingly. The landscaping experts recommend a large, 12” wheel for the most accurate measurements possible.
Sometimes, a weed trimmer just won’t do the job. That’s why a chainsaw is a must-have for landscapers. You’ll use this tool for pruning, tree and fallen limb removal, and demolition tasks.
You won’t always find an outlet, nor should you risk the possibility that someone trips over your chainsaw cord. The tool is dangerous enough on its own!
That’s why the professional landscapers recommend the Makita XCU06z LXT. This chainsaw is:
Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring a spare battery and charger with you.
It’s clear that most landscapers need an arsenal of tools, many of which are on the larger side. On top of that, you’ll need a way to transport lawn equipment and materials including topsoil, mulch, plants, and topiary to your work sites.
A truck was one of the most recommended landscaping tools. As you grow your landscaping business you may want to invest in a detachable trailer for bigger jobs. Don’t forget to cover the vehicle you use for work with auto insurance.
Auto insurance for your truck is a no-brainer—but have you considered general liability insurance for your landscaping business?
With so many powerful tools in your arsenal, there’s always the chance that something can go wrong. For instance, you’re moving a client’s lawn and don’t see a small rock which hits and cracks their window. You could be held responsible for the property damage.
Landscaping insurance can help provide the investigation, defense, and settlement for claims of third party bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury arising from your work as a landscaper. Don’t forget about protecting your lawn care tools and machinery with equipment insurance, after all, your equipment is critical to your work!
Starting a successful business often requires an upfront investment. While you may be able to skip the marketing costs, some essential landscaping tools are required. To that end, consider:
