Can a General Contractor Do Landscaping?

Thinking about a big construction project?

Maybe a home renovation or a backyard project?

Whatever it is, hiring the right contractor is a huge decision. You want someone who knows what they’re doing, follows the rules, and gets the job done right.

But here’s a question that comes up a lot: Can a general contractor handle landscaping?

The short answer is = Sometimes.

But let’s break it down.

General Contractors vs. Specialized Contractors

Contractors aren’t all the same.

General Contractors

General contractors manage big projects.

They oversee multiple tasks, making sure everything stays on track.

Think of them as project managers for construction. If you're building a house or remodeling a kitchen, they keep all the moving parts in order.

Specialized Contractors

Specialized contractors focus on specific jobs like plumbing, roofing, or electrical work.

They bring deep expertise to ONE area, making sure things are done to a high standard.

So, where does landscaping fit in?

Landscaping: It's A Different Skill Set

Landscaping isn’t just planting flowers and mowing the lawn.

It involves designing outdoor spaces, grading land, installing irrigation systems, and even hardscaping (like patios and walkways).

That’s why there’s a special license for it—the C-27 Landscaping License.

General contractors don’t automatically have this license.

If they do, great! That means they can legally handle landscaping projects.

If not, they’ll need to hire a licensed landscape contractor to get the job done.

Why Licensing Matters

Licensing is a protection for you.

A licensed contractor:

Has proven their skills and knowledge.

Follows state regulations.

Carries insurance to cover accidents and damages.

Hiring someone without the right license is risky.

You could end up with poor-quality work, unexpected costs, or even legal trouble.

How to Check If a Contractor is Licensed

Before hiring anyone, do a quick license check. Here’s how:

Visit the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) website.

Enter the contractor’s license number.

Look for any complaints, disciplinary actions, or red flags.

This step takes just a few minutes but can save you from major headaches later.

When to Hire a Specialized Landscape Contractor

If your project is all about landscaping—grading, irrigation, patios, planting, and design—go with a licensed landscape contractor.

They have the training and experience to do it right.

But if landscaping is just one part of a bigger construction project, a general contractor with a C-27 license might be a good choice.

They can manage the entire job and make sure every part of it (including the landscaping) runs smoothly.

Red Flags When Hiring a Contractor

Be careful if a contractor:

Won’t show proof of a license or insurance.

Asks for a big upfront payment before starting.

Avoids giving a written contract.

Has lots of bad reviews or complaints.

If something feels off, trust your gut. There are plenty of trustworthy, skilled contractors out there.

Final Thoughts

So, can a general contractor do landscaping? It depends on their license. If they have a C-27 Landscaping License, then yes!

If not, it’s best to hire a licensed landscape contractor to make sure the job is done right.

Always check licenses, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to shop around for the best professional for your project.

Your home and outdoor space deserve the best!

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How To Turn Your Tree Stump Into Garden Planter (Step-by-Step Guide!)

By Annie Eyelets • April 10, 2025

Tree stumps can be an eyesore in your yard, but with a little creativity, you can transform them into a beautiful natural planter. In this blog, we'll discuss: Tips and step-by-step guide on how to convert an old tree stump into a planter. Best flowers, ferns, and even fairy gardens for the planter. And how to maintain the flower so it grows beautifully! Assessing the Stump Before You Begin Before turning your tree stump into a planter, take a moment to assess its condition. Check for signs of decay—if the stump is already soft or rotting, it will be much easier to hollow out. If it’s still solid, you may need to use extra tools like a chainsaw or heavy-duty drill. Also, consider the location of the stump; ensure it receives enough sunlight for the plants you want to grow. If the stump is in a shaded area, opt for shade-loving plants like ferns, hostas, or moss. Alternatively, you can trim surrounding branches to allow more sunlight or place reflective surfaces nearby to help direct light toward the plants. Finally, inspect for any pest activity, as some stumps may be home to termites or other insects that could affect your garden. Step-by-Step Guide to Turning a Tree Stump into a Planter Tools and Materials You’ll Need: Chainsaw (if the stump is very solid) Drill with an auger bit for drainage holes Chisel and hammer for carving out the center Soil and compost for planting Plants suited to your stump’s environment Protective gloves and goggles for safety Steps to Create Your Tree Stump Planter: Create Drainage Holes – Drill a series of holes in the center of the stump to allow excess water to drain and prevent root rot. Hollow Out the Center – Use a chisel and hammer to carve out the center of the stump, creating a planting space at least 8 inches deep. Remove Debris – Clear out any wood shavings, bark, or rotten material. If the edges are too rough, you can smooth them with a chisel for a more polished look. Fill with Soil and Compost – Add a mixture of nutrient-rich soil and compost to create a healthy environment for your plants. Plant Your Favorite Flowers or Foliage – Choose plants that will thrive in the given sunlight and moisture conditions. Ferns, flowers, moss, and native plants work particularly well. Water and Maintain – Water your new tree stump planter regularly and monitor the plants' growth. Add more compost over time as needed to maintain nutrient levels. Add Decorations – Add moss, stones, or even a fairy house to create a more decorative look.