What Landscaping Equipment Should I Buy First?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 30, 2025
- 2 min read
Starting a landscaping business is exciting—but figuring out what equipment to buy first can be overwhelming. Whether you're offering lawn care, hardscaping, irrigation, tree trimming, or garden design, having the right tools from day one sets the foundation for a successful operation.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping landscaping contractors protect their businesses with tailored insurance solutions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential landscaping equipment to buy first, how to prioritize your purchases, and how to protect your investment with the right insurance coverage.
Why Equipment Matters in Landscaping
Your equipment directly affects your efficiency, quality of service, and profitability. The right tools help you complete jobs faster, reduce labor costs, and deliver professional results that keep clients coming back.
Essential Landscaping Equipment to Buy First
1. Lawn Mower
A commercial-grade mower is a must-have for any landscaping business. Choose between:
Walk-behind mowers for small residential lawns
Zero-turn riding mowers for larger properties
2. String Trimmer (Weed Eater)
Perfect for trimming grass around fences, flower beds, and hard-to-reach areas. Look for models with:
Long battery life or gas-powered options
Lightweight design for comfort
3. Leaf Blower
Used for clearing debris, leaves, and grass clippings. Backpack blowers are ideal for larger jobs, while handheld models work well for residential properties.
4. Edger
Create clean lines between lawns and hardscapes. A dedicated edger offers more precision than a string trimmer.
5. Hedge Trimmer
Essential for shaping shrubs and hedges. Choose ergonomic models to reduce fatigue during long jobs.
6. Hand Tools
Start with a basic set of durable hand tools:
Shovels
Rakes
Pruners
Trowels
Wheelbarrow
7. Safety Gear
Protect yourself and your crew with:
Gloves
Goggles
Steel-toe boots
Hearing protection
8. Digital Tools
Use landscaping business software for scheduling, invoicing, and client management.
How Much Should You Budget?
Expect to spend between $1,500 and $5,000 on essential equipment (excluding truck and trailer). Plan your purchases based on your services and scale.
Don’t Forget Insurance for Your Equipment
Protect your investment with specialized coverage:
Working with Wexford Insurance, a niche-focused agency, ensures your landscaping business gets the right protection from day one.
Final Thoughts
Starting a landscaping business requires smart investments in equipment and insurance. By choosing the right tools and working with a specialized agency like Wexford Insurance, you’ll be ready to deliver professional results and grow your business with confidence.
Contact us today to get started.
