The Grass Doctor

how do i start a lawn care service?

tree trimming sprinkler service mowing yards weeding trash removal

Public Comments

1. Forget tree trimming unless you have been trained how to make proper cuts, the criteria for trimming, etc. Too much that passes for trimming is killing trees (albeit slowly) and making them unstable risking disease, insects, blow over, limb drop, etc. Plus is it just too dangerous. Mowing, weeding, trash removal are a good step. Then get certified through your state ag dept to apply herbicides. Mowing you need a reliable mower, knowledge how to fix it on the spot, how to maintain the blades, etc. Edging without killing trees, etc. How to use a blower without breaking passing car windows or client's house windows. If your skills are good you need clients. Handbills are probably the cheapest advertisement. Limit your area, you don't want to drive all over town. How will you transport your equipment? How ill you dispose of clippings and trash? Research dump fees . Also know about lawn aeration, vertical cutting as they are part of lawn culture. Are you going to prune shrubs? Do you know how? There is a right way and wrong way.....too many untrained do the wrong way thus stressing the plants, creating more problems. If you have a landscape or garden school......classes, whatever, take them. Get educated to improve your skills. In the mean time you can start with mowing, but your skill level will have to increase as you are asked to do more.
2. Start caring about lawns
3. First, buy this book. Start Your Own Lawn Care Business (Entrepreneur Magazine's Start Up) Copy this address into your browser. http://www.amazon.com/Start-Your-Business-Entrepreneur-Magazines/dp/1891984756/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1310235099&sr=8-1 Then, if you still like the idea after you read it, put the steps in the book into action. For $10.68, you could save yourself some major league headaches.