Landscapers work hard to maintain and beautify your outdoor spaces, but many homeowners are unsure about tipping etiquette. While tipping isn’t always expected, it’s a great way to show appreciation for their hard work. So, how much should you tip landscapers? This guide breaks down the best tipping practices based on service type, frequency, and industry standards.

Standard Tipping Rate for Landscapers

The general rule of thumb for tipping landscapers is 10% to 20% of the total service cost or a flat amount per worker. Here’s a quick breakdown:

By the Service Type

• One-time landscaping project – Tip 10% to 20% of the total bill.
• Routine lawn care service – Tip $5 to $20 per worker per visit.
• Seasonal yard cleanup – Tip $20 to $50 per worker, depending on complexity.
• Tree trimming or removal – Tip $20 to $100 per worker, based on difficulty.

By the Total Cost

• $100 landscaping job – Tip $10 to $20
• $500 landscaping job – Tip $50 to $100
• $1,000+ landscaping job – Tip $100 to $200+

Factors That Affect How Much You Should Tip

When to Tip on the Higher End

Consider tipping more if:

• The landscapers handle extreme weather conditions.
• The job involves heavy lifting, detailed work, or hazardous tasks.
• They go above and beyond in customer service or add extra touches.
• The project requires extra time or last-minute adjustments.

When to Tip on the Lower End (or Not at All)

You may tip less or not at all if:

• The work is rushed or not up to standard.
• You are already paying a high service fee that includes gratuity.
• The landscaping company has a strict no-tipping policy.

Best Ways to Tip Landscapers

• Cash is best – Handing cash directly to each worker ensures they receive the full amount.
• Offer refreshments – Providing water, snacks, or a meal is a great way to show appreciation.
• End-of-season bonus – If you hire landscapers regularly, consider a holiday or year-end bonus.

Do You Tip Landscapers from a Company?

If your landscapers work for a larger company, check their policy on tips. Some companies include gratuity in their pricing, while others allow customers to tip individually. When in doubt, tipping $10 to $20 per worker is a safe bet.

Final Thoughts

Tipping landscapers is a meaningful way to acknowledge their hard work and effort. Stick to 10% to 20% of the total cost or $5 to $100 per worker, depending on the job’s complexity. If you use landscaping services regularly, a holiday bonus is also a great way to show appreciation!

Want more tipping advice? Check out our other gratuity guides for service professionals!