What’s the Difference Between Landscaping and Lawn Care?

(New Orleans Homeowners Guide)

If you’re a homeowner in the New Orleans area searching for outdoor services, you’ve probably come across the terms landscaping and lawn care. While they’re often used interchangeably, they refer to two very different services — and knowing the difference can help you make the best decision for your yard.

Here’s a breakdown of what each service includes, how they overlap, and what New Orleans residents should consider when choosing between the two.

🌿 What Is Landscaping?

Landscaping refers to the planning and installation of outdoor spaces. This can include everything from planting new garden beds to building patios, drainage systems, walkways, and lighting. Landscaping is more about transforming your yard into a beautiful, functional space.

Common Landscaping Services in New Orleans:

• Landscape planning

• Installation of plants, trees, and garden beds

• Hardscaping (like stone paths, patios, retaining walls)

• Outdoor lighting

• Drainage solutions (important for our rainy climate!)

• Irrigation systems

In New Orleans, where curb appeal and lush greenery are big priorities, landscaping helps homeowners create outdoor spaces that reflect their style — while also standing up to our unique Gulf Coast weather.

🌱 What Is Lawn Care?

Lawn care is the routine maintenance of your yard, especially your grass. These services are usually ongoing and designed to keep your lawn healthy, green, and weed-free.

Typical Lawn Care Services in New Orleans:

• Mowing and edging

• Fertilization

• Weed control

• Aeration and dethatching

• Pest control

• Seasonal treatments

With New Orleans’ hot, humid summers and mild winters, proper lawn care requires year-round attention and an understanding of local soil conditions and turf types.

🛠 Landscaping vs. Lawn Care: Which Do You Need?

• Choose lawn care if you're looking to maintain what you already have — like keeping your St. Augustine grass healthy or tackling weeds.

• Choose landscaping if you want to change or improve the look and functionality of your yard — like adding new flower beds, outdoor lighting, or drainage to handle stormwater.

Many homeowners in New Orleans benefit from a combination of both — starting with a landscape installation and then following up with ongoing lawn care to keep it looking its best.

🌺 Local Tip: Why It Matters in New Orleans

New Orleans has unique environmental challenges — from intense summer heat to frequent rain. Working with a local landscape company ensures that your plants, lawn treatments, and outdoor designs are all suited to our climate, soil, and style.