How To Do Local SEO For Landscaping Companies – Simple Guide

Local SEO, or local search engine optimization, is one of the best ways for landscaping companies to attract new clients without spending too much on ads. When you improve how your business shows up in local search results and Google’s map pack, you can reach people right when they are searching for landscaping services in your area. This makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you, which can lead to more calls, more website visits, and ultimately more business.

With 10+ years of experience in Local SEO, I’ve helped more than 100 local businesses climb to the top of Google’s rankings. The strategies in this guide are based on real results, with businesses already succeeding in their markets using these techniques. If you’re ready to grow your landscaping company, this guide will show you how to use Local SEO to stand out against the competition and bring in more clients than ever before! So, let’s dive in!

Why Local SEO Is a Must for Landscaping Companies

Local SEO is the process of improving a website’s visibility and ranking in search engine results for local searches. It involves optimizing your online presence to target potential customers in your specific geographic location. For businesses/companies that operate primarily in a specific area, like landscaping companies, having a strong local SEO strategy is crucial.

Here’s why:

• Most People Start Online: Did you know that over 75% of potential customers kick off their search online? Even when a friend refers them, they still go online to do their research. (Source: RANQ)
• Organic Results Matter: Around 65% of users prefer clicking on organic search results instead of paid ads or other links. This means strong SEO helps your website grab attention and get those valuable clicks! (Source: Dental Design Marketing)
• Local Searches Are Huge: An impressive 8 out of 10 consumers in the U.S. search for local businesses online at least once a week. That’s why showing up in local search results is a game-changer for landscaping companies! (Source: Backlinko)

How Do People Search for Landscaping Companies?

When people want to hire a landscaping company, they usually go to search engines for help. Common local search queries might include things like:

• “Lawn care service near me”
• “Tree removal in [City]”
• “Garden design [Neighborhood].”

These searches show that people are looking for local services, meaning they need a solution close to where they live. Showing up in these local search results presents landscaping companies with a significant opportunity to be seen first, thereby increasing their chances of converting potential customers into actual ones.

But does this mean you should include “near me” on every page of your website? Not exactly! This is because search engines like Google already figure out the user’s location and adjust results accordingly. For example, someone searching for “Landscaping company near me” in Miami will see very different results than someone in Denver.

Why Is Local SEO Important for Landscaping Companies?

There are several reasons why local SEO is crucial for landscaping companies:

Target Local Customers Effectively

Local SEO helps landscaping companies reach people in their specific area who are looking for their services. Since most landscaping businesses serve a defined geographic region, this ensures that their website and business show up for potential customers nearby who are more likely to hire them.

Save Money on Advertising

Investing in local SEO allows landscaping companies to reduce their dependence on costly paid advertisements. For example, businesses in other industries may have to spend over $40 per click for top-performing keywords, but landscaping companies can focus on organic search results instead. This approach helps attract customers without breaking the bank.

Stand Out in a Competitive Market

The landscaping industry can be highly competitive, with many businesses aiming for attention in the same area. By appearing at the top of local search results, landscaping companies can distinguish themselves from competitors. This visibility gives them a better chance to win over new customers without investing heavily in advertising campaigns.

What This Local SEO Guide Has Got For You?

Now that you understand the importance of standing out in local search results, it’s time to walk you through the key points of what’s next. So, this guide will teach you how to boost your landscaping business using local SEO. Here’s what you’ll learn:

1. How to optimize your Google Business Profile to improve your visibility in local search rankings and attract more customers.
2. Steps to turn your website into a lead machine, tailored specifically for landscaping companies, without relying on expensive external SEO services.
3. Creating local landing pages to target important local keywords so you can connect with clients in your area effectively.
4. Using keyword research strategically to help your landscaping business dominate local search results and attract the right audience.
5. How to earn high-quality local backlinks by connecting with local directories and websites to strengthen your online presence.

Now, let’s dive into these five steps and see what you need to do.

Step 1. Optimizing Your Google Business Profile

So, it all starts with your Google Business Profile (GBP). A well-optimized GBP helps your business appear in Google’s local pack, on Google Maps, and in local searches conducted by potential clients in your service area.

Here’s how you can make the most out of it:

Ensure Accurate NAP Details

NAP stands for Name, Address, and Phone Number, and these details must be consistent across all platforms, including your website and local directories. Use your business name exactly as it appears in your branding. This means no abbreviations or variations. This consistency helps Google and potential clients trust the accuracy of your profile.

Set Your Service Areas

Your Google Business Profile allows you to include all the areas your landscaping business serves. This makes it easier to show up in searches like “landscaping services near me,” even if your office isn’t located in the exact neighborhood of the searcher. To do this, go to the Service Area section in your GBP and list all the cities, towns, or neighborhoods where you offer your services. This can greatly expand your reach to nearby customers.

Add High-Quality Photos

First impressions matter, especially in the landscaping business, where visuals speak volumes. Include high-quality, professional photos of your completed landscaping projects, equipment, and team. Avoid blurry or low-resolution pictures, as they may make your business appear less professional. Showcase your best work to attract more clients!

Leverage Google Posts

Use the Google Posts feature to share updates, special offers, or helpful tips related to landscaping. For example, you could post about seasonal landscaping advice, how to prepare yards for winter, or a recent project you completed. Regular posting keeps your profile active and also adds extra value for your followers.

Focus on Google Reviews

Encourage happy customers to leave positive reviews on your Google Business Profile. Reviews play a massive role in local rankings and building trust with potential clients. Keep this in mind: people are more likely to trust a landscaping company with hundreds of good reviews than one with just a handful.

Respond to all reviews, whether they’re glowing recommendations or critical feedback. For negative reviews, stay professional, explain what may have gone wrong, and offer solutions to address the issue. This demonstrates to potential clients that you value their satisfaction and are committed to improvement.

If you’re struggling with getting reviews, make sure to read our guide on How to Get More Reviews for your landscaping company.

You can also read our detailed Google Business Profile Optimization Guide, where you’ll see things covered in detail.

Step 2. Using Your Website as a Local SEO Lead Machine

After optimizing your Google Business Profile, next comes your business website. Yes, having a website is important, but having an ordinary one is not enough. A professional-looking website plays a vital role in attracting and converting potential clients through local SEO strategies. A few strategic but straightforward adjustments can transform your site into a local SEO lead machine, turning visitors into loyal landscaping customers.

Here are a few essential features for optimizing your business website:

Professional Design

Your website should have a clean, modern, and easy-to-navigate design. Think of it as your online storefront; it represents your brand’s level of professionalism. Just as a neat and well-maintained landscaping job reflects expertise, a well-designed website gives potential clients confidence in your services.

Clear Calls-to-Action (CTAs)

Make it easy for visitors to take the next step. Whether it’s calling your business or requesting a quote, your CTAs need to be straightforward and actionable. Examples of good CTAs include:

• “Call Now for a Free Estimate!”
• “Book Your Landscaping Consultation Today!”

Avoid vague phrases like “Explore Our Services” or “Contact Us,” as they don’t guide users toward a specific action.

Trust-Building Elements

Including trust-building features on your website helps establish credibility. Trust-building elements include:

• Client Reviews Section: Dedicate space to feature reviews and feedback from past clients. This acts as social proof of your expertise.
• Project Highlights: Share before-and-after images or success stories of past landscaping projects.
• Certifications and Recognition: Display memberships or certifications, such as being a verified contractor or member of a local landscaping association. Don’t forget to showcase awards or recognitions, like “Top-Rated Landscaping Company in [Your City].”

Pro Tip: Display client reviews and testimonials next to a well-defined CTA, like a “Call Now” button, to inspire trust and drive action instantly.

Showcase Local Relevance

Boost your local SEO standing by adding real photos of your team working on-site, completed projects, and involvement in community events. Incorporating a Google Maps widget to display your location not only makes it easier for users to find you but also shows Google your local relevance.

Basic Website SEO Principles

Without SEO, your website won’t be visible. This means, regardless of how much professional and convincing your website is, it will not bring leads unless it is SEO-friendly. Here are a few basic SEO principles you need to understand:

Headings (H1, H2, H3)

Properly structured headings make it easier for search engines and visitors to understand your website content. Use them as follows:

• H1: Include a main local keyword, e.g., “Top Landscaping Services in [City].”
• H2: Organize sections with subheadings like “Our Services in [City]” or “Customer Reviews.”
• H3: For detailed subsections, like “Lawn Maintenance” within “Our Services.”

Meta Titles and Descriptions

Meta titles and descriptions are what people see in search results. Optimize them with local keywords. For example:

• Strong meta title example: “Expert Landscaping in [City]—Free Estimates.”
• Avoid generic titles like “Welcome to Our Website,” as they fail to attract attention or provide local relevance.

Step 3. Creating Local Landing Pages

The third step is to create local landing pages. These pages are essential for landscaping companies because they boost visibility in local searches and help attract customers in specific areas. Google uses pages with targeted local keywords to show relevant results for people in nearby locations.

For example, if someone in Miami searches “Lawn care service near me,” your business is more likely to appear if you have a dedicated page titled “Lawn Care Services in Miami.”

Why Dedicated Pages Matter for Landscaping Companies

Creating specific pages for local areas demonstrates that your business is deeply connected to the community. Highlighting neighborhoods, cities, or suburbs in your content shows Google that you are an authority in those areas.

For example, a page titled “Expert Landscaping in [Suburb]” helps your company rank higher in searches and attracts customers who need landscaping services in that particular location.

Tips for Structuring Local Landing Pages

1. Include Local Keywords: Use phrases like “Landscaping Services in [Neighborhood]” or “Tree Trimming in [City]” in the title, headings, and meta descriptions. This helps Google understand your page is relevant to local searchers.
2. Highlight Your Services: Be specific about what your business provides. For example, list services such as lawn care, patio construction, irrigation solutions, or seasonal cleanup. Mention any unique needs of the area, like “Our irrigation solutions are perfect for [City’s] dry summers.”
3. Showcase Local Reviews: Add reviews from happy customers in the area you’re targeting. If possible, include specific testimonials, such as “This company completely revamped my backyard in [City]—it’s now my favorite place to relax!”
4. Use Visual Elements: Add real photos of projects in the area, your team, or equipment in action. Embedding a Google Maps widget that shows the neighborhoods you serve also adds credibility and helps potential customers locate your services.
5. Implement Schema Markup: Use schema, a technical SEO tool, to provide search engines with information about your services, reviews, and location. This makes your business more likely to appear in local search results. Read more about Local Business Schema.

Step 4. Using Keyword Research Strategically

Keywords, keywords, keywords! Keyword research helps you understand what potential customers are searching for and how to connect with them effectively. Without optimizing your website for the right terms, you risk losing leads to competitors. Here’s what you have to do:

Understand What is Being Searched

Potential landscaping clients often search for specific services, such as “Lawn care companies in [City]” or “Affordable tree trimming near me.” Being strategic with your keyword choices ensures your business is visible to these searches. But remember what we said earlier in this blog? Including “near me” directly on your site isn’t necessary because Google already accounts for the user’s location when serving results with local intent.

Target High-Value Keywords

Focus on search terms with strong local intent. For example, phrases like “Top-rated landscaper in [City]” or “Affordable garden design services [City]” are likely to attract people ready to hire a landscaping company. Additionally, aim for solution-oriented phrases like “How to maintain a healthy lawn in [City]” to address specific customer needs.

Expand Into Problem-Specific Keywords

Go beyond broad terms by creating content tailored to the issues your customers might encounter. For instance, write about topics like “How to fix patchy grass problems in [City]” or “Choosing the best plants that thrive in [State’s] climate.” By doing so, your business becomes a go-to resource for reliable solutions.

How to Identify Local Keywords

Here are different ways you can use to identify local keywords for your landscaping business or service:

• Use Google Autocomplete: This is the easiest one. Start typing search terms like “Landscaping services in [City]” or “Lawn care tips [City]” into Google. The autocomplete suggestions can give you real-time insights into what local audiences are searching for.
• Google Keyword Planner: Here’s a free tool that provides data on search volume and competition for landscaping-related terms. You will need a Google Ads account for this. Then go to Tools > Planning > Keyword Planner. Input broad keywords like “landscaping services” paired with your service area, and you’ll receive detailed suggestions to refine your strategy.
• SEO Tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush: These paid tools offer comprehensive keyword research and analysis. They also provide data on your competitors’ rankings, backlinks, and more. You can use these tools to find keywords like “best landscaping services” or “professional landscapers in [your city]” that have high search volume and low competition, making them valuable targets for optimization.

Multilingual Keywords

If your landscaping company serves a community with diverse backgrounds, consider optimizing for multilingual keywords. For example:

• Spanish-speaking audience might search for terms like “Diseño de jardines asequible en [City]” or “Especialista en mantenimiento de césped [City].”
• Providing localized content in multiple languages helps you connect with a wider audience.

Examples of High-Value Keywords for Landscapers

• “Affordable lawn mower repair in [City].”
• “Best landscaping company [City].”
• “Residential tree pruning service [City].”
• “Sustainable garden design [City].”
• “Seasonal yard care tips [State].”

Tips for Using Local Keywords

After finding the best keywords for your business, it’s time for you to use them and get the best out of your research. Follow these three tips when using local keywords for landscaping companies:

1. Place Keywords Strategically: Naturally integrate keywords into your titles, meta descriptions, headings, and the first 100 words of your content. For example, “Expert Landscaping Services in [City]—Your Dream Yard Awaits!”
2. Optimize Service and Location Pages: Create dedicated web pages for each service and area you serve. For example, if you offer three landscaping services in four neighborhoods, build 12 unique pages targeting each combination.
3. Avoid Keyword Stuffing: Focus on crafting high-quality, natural content instead of overloading with keywords, which could hurt your search rankings. Use relevant keywords in your page titles, headings, and throughout the body of your content.
4. Competitor Analysis: Research the websites and online presence of your competitors to identify areas where you can improve. Look for keywords they are targeting, their website design and user experience, and any backlinks they have from other reputable sites.
5. Write Engaging Content: Focusing on keywords is excellent, but user engagement is just as critical. Write informative and engaging content that will keep your audience interested and coming back for more. Use visuals such as images, videos, and infographics to break up the text and make it more appealing.

Step 5. Earning and Building High-Quality Local Backlinks

The fifth and final step to do SEO for landscaping companies is earning and building high-quality local backlinks. But what exactly are backlinks? A backlink is like a vote of confidence from one website to another. When trustworthy websites link to your landscaping business, it shows Google that your website is helpful and provides valuable information. This is super important for ranking higher in local search results, getting more visitors to your site, and improving your company’s reputation.

Here’s how you can earn local backlinks:

Helpful Tips to Earn Local Backlinks for Landscaping Companies

• Get Listed in Local Directories: Submit your landscaping business to reputable online directories, such as the local Chamber of Commerce, Yelp, and landscaping-specific platforms. Make sure your business details, like name, address, and phone number (NAP), are consistent everywhere you list them. This helps both Google and customers trust your business information.
• Collaborate with Local Media: Offer to share landscaping tips, seasonal maintenance advice, or expert opinions with local newspapers, blogs, or community websites. For example, you could write an article like “Top Landscaping Tips for Homes in [Your City]” or provide expert answers for gardening questions. These partnerships can earn you valuable links and get more people in your area to notice your services.
• Sponsor or Participate in Local Events: Support community activities like park clean-ups, garden shows, or school events in your area. You can ask event organizers to link back to your website from their event pages, increasing your visibility and showing your involvement in the local community.
• Write Guest Blogs: Share landscaping-related tips or industry knowledge on other local websites, like green living blogs or community-focused sites. Always make sure to include a link back to your website in your bio or within the article itself.

Earning local backlinks like these can help Google see that your landscaping business is an important part of the local community. This makes your website more likely to show up at the top of local search results, whether people are searching for a landscaper in general or specific services you offer.

Bonus Step: Monitoring and Improving Your Local SEO Strategy

This bonus tip is for those who’ve been reading, intending to master local SEO for their landscaping business. After setting up your local SEO campaign, you can’t just sit back and wait for results. You need to monitor your progress and make improvements as necessary.

Here are some ways to monitor and improve your local SEO strategy:

Tools to Track Local SEO Performance

Here are a few tools to help you track local SEO performance for your landscaping business growth strategy:

• Google Analytics: Google Analytics helps you track your website traffic and understand how many visitors are coming from local search results. Pay close attention to which pages are driving the most engagement and whether visitors are taking actions like filling out a contact form or requesting a quote. For your landscaping company, you might notice that blog posts about “eco-friendly landscaping tips” or service pages for “lawn maintenance” perform well.
• Google Search Console: This tool provides detailed insights into which search queries are driving traffic to your site. Look for keywords with local intent, such as “landscaping company near me” or “tree trimming in [City].” If you discover new search terms, like “landscape lighting installation in [Neighborhood],” consider creating new pages or optimizing existing ones to target those terms.
• Google Business Profile Insights: Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is a powerful tool for local SEO. GBP Insights shows how often your profile appears in local searches and how users interact with it. Are potential customers clicking the “Call” button or requesting directions to your business? If interaction rates are low, try adding updated photos of your work, posting regular updates about your services, or expanding your service areas.
• BrightLocal: BrightLocal is a paid tool designed to help local businesses manage their SEO efforts. It can track your local search rankings, analyze customer reviews, and manage your online citations. For example, you can use this tool to ensure your landscaping company’s name, address, and phone number are consistent across directories.

How To Analyze and Improve Your SEO Strategy

Follow these steps to analyze and improve your local SEO strategy when needed:

Check for New Local Search Queries

Use Google Search Console to uncover fresh keywords people are searching for. For instance, if you notice “drought-resistant landscaping in [City]” is trending, but you don’t have a page for this service, create one to capture that traffic.

Evaluate Google Business Profile (GBP) Performance

Look at how users interact with your GBP. If interaction is low, try adding high-quality photos of recent projects, showcasing your team, or posting updates like seasonal tips for yard care.

Review Website Analytics

Check the bounce rates and conversion rates on your website’s key pages. If visitors are leaving quickly, it may mean your content isn’t engaging. Update these pages with clear calls-to-action, fresh visuals, or more detailed information about your services.

Adjust Based on Trends

If certain landscaping services, such as “patio design” or “outdoor kitchens,” are growing in popularity, make sure your website and local landing pages are optimized to highlight these offerings.

Tips for Ongoing Success With Local SEO for Landscaping Companies

Follow these tried and tested tips to help your landscaping business succeed with local SEO:

• Set a Review Schedule: Take time regularly to check your Google Business Profile and website. This helps ensure that all your details, like business hours and contact info, are accurate. It’s also a good chance to see if you can add new services or make your existing content better.
• Create Fresh Content: Write about popular landscaping topics, like eco-friendly yard designs or using native plants in gardens. Adding blog posts or new service pages can bring more visitors to your site and improve your search rankings.
• Experiment and Track Results: Test different ideas on your website, such as new calls-to-action, images, or headlines, to see what works best for your audience. Make it a habit to check your Google Business Profile insights every month. Look at the search terms that lead people to your business, and use this data to update your SEO strategy.

Conclusion: How to do Local SEO for Landscaping Companies

To summarize, building a strong local SEO campaign for your landscaping company is one of the most effective ways to attract potential customers while saving on expensive paid advertising. With these strategies, you can boost your local search rankings, increase website traffic, and secure more leads without substantial financial investment.

Let’s quickly recap what we’ve shared in the guide:

Key Steps for Local SEO Success

1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile (GBP)

• Make sure your NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) details are complete and accurate.
• Define your service areas clearly to attract local customers in your region.
• Upload high-quality photos of your landscaping projects to showcase your expertise.
• Post regularly to keep your profile fresh and visible.
• Collect positive reviews and respond to them to build trust and improve rankings.

2. Turn Your Website Into a Lead-Generating Machine

• Ensure your website design looks professional and has clear calls-to-action (CTAs) to guide visitors through the next steps.
• Embed positive Google reviews and other trust-building elements to show credibility.
• Use targeted local keywords in your headings, meta tags, and content to help search engines and users find you effectively.

3. Build Location and Service-Specific Pages

• Create dedicated pages for each service you offer, such as lawn care, garden design, or irrigation system installation.
• Develop unique pages for each service area you cover, focusing on local search queries and including customer testimonials to increase relevance.

4. Conduct Keyword Research for Local Intent

• Use tools like Google Keyword Planner or Ahrefs to identify valuable local landscaping keywords.
• Focus on phrases with high local intent, such as “landscaping company in [City]” or “garden design services near me.”

5. Earn Local Backlinks and Citations

• Partner with local directories and collaborate with media outlets to earn authoritative backlinks.
• Ensure your business information is consistent across all online platforms and directories.

6. Monitor and Adjust Your Efforts

• Use tools like Google Analytics and BrightLocal to track your performance consistently.
• Adjust and refine your SEO strategy based on data insights and emerging trends.

Prioritize Your Actions

If you’re unsure where to begin, here’s a prioritization checklist:

• Don’t have a GBP profile? Create one immediately to attract local customers.
• Have a GBP but need more reviews? Focus on gathering more positive Google reviews by encouraging satisfied clients to leave feedback.
• Strong GBP but weak website? Update your website with local keywords, CTAs, and embedded reviews.
• Optimized website but few pages? Build location-specific pages for your landscaping services.
• Have your foundation in place? Start earning backlinks and monitoring your SEO metrics.

Remember, small, consistent efforts in local SEO will generate long-term improvements. Once your groundwork is established, your landscaping company will enjoy a steady stream of organic traffic and increased visibility without the need for costly advertising. Focus on these strategies to grow your business and dominate your local market!

About the Author

Jonas Lindemann

I’m an experienced SEO professional with over a decade of helping over 100 businesses rank higher online, especially local businesses, e-commerce stores and SaaS. As the co-founder of LPagery, I specialize in practical, proven strategies for regular SEO and Local SEO success.