If you’re responsible for managing a commercial property in Southwest or Central Florida, landscaping isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. From the moment a tenant, visitor, or customer steps onto your property, the landscape sets the tone. A well-kept exterior builds trust. A neglected one raises red flags.

But hiring just any landscaping company won’t cut it. You need a team that understands the stakes of commercial real estate and the unpredictable nature of Florida’s climate. Not every provider is built for this level of work. So before you sign a service contract, make sure your choice checks all five of these critical boxes.

1. Deep Knowledge of Florida’s Unique Landscaping Environment

Florida landscaping isn’t just about mowing and mulch—it’s about mastering one of the most challenging horticultural environments in the U.S. From relentless humidity and tropical storms to aggressive pests and invasive plant species, the Sunshine State demands a strategic, informed approach.

What to look for:

• Familiarity with native, drought-tolerant plants that reduce maintenance costs

• Knowledge of common Florida turf diseases like dollar spot or brown patch fungus

• Understanding of hurricane-hardened tree selection and wind mitigation techniques

• Compliance with state and local irrigation regulations, including seasonal water restrictions

A competent Florida landscaping partner won’t just keep things green—they’ll prevent costly issues before they start. You want a team that’s not learning on the job. You want seasoned professionals who live and breathe Florida turf, trees, and seasonal shifts.

2. Proven Experience With Commercial Properties

The needs of a retail center, industrial park, apartment complex, or HOA are far more complex than those of a residential backyard. That’s why commercial property managers must choose a Florida landscaping company with a strong portfolio of commercial work.

Here’s what sets commercial landscapers apart:

• Understanding of ADA compliance for walkway overgrowth and visibility

• Coordination with facility managers, security teams, or board committees

• Experience managing expansive irrigation systems with smart controllers

• Flexible scheduling to avoid disrupting tenants and customers

Commercial properties require consistency, planning, and professionalism. A company that handles large-scale Florida landscaping projects will bring a different level of project management, crew coordination, and quality control—exactly what your property deserves.

3. Proactive, Transparent Communication

Communication makes or breaks vendor relationships. If your current landscaping provider ghosted you after that first walk-through, you’re not alone. Many companies overpromise and then vanish once the contract is signed.

Look for a company that prioritizes:

• Regular check-ins from account managers or field supervisors

• Detailed service reports with photos and notes

• Digital tools for scheduling, invoicing, and service history

• Real-time updates on weather delays or scheduling changes

Great communication isn’t just about updates—it’s about peace of mind. When your Florida landscaping team keeps you in the loop, you can confidently update property owners or board members with real facts, not guesswork.

4. Customized Solutions for Every Property

Some companies pitch “one-size-fits-all” packages, but every commercial property has its own challenges—microclimates, traffic patterns, soil composition, and budget constraints. Your landscaping plan should reflect that.

A smart Florida landscaping provider will:

• Conduct a thorough property walkthrough before quoting

• Offer options tailored to your specific site and usage patterns

• Suggest native or low-maintenance plants to cut long-term costs

• Adjust services seasonally based on weather and growth cycles

If they aren’t asking about shade coverage, irrigation pressure, or tenant traffic, they’re not serious about your site. Customization is the difference between ticking boxes and delivering lasting curb appeal.

5. A Solid Reputation and Real Results

Lastly, nothing beats proof. A reputable Florida landscaping company should be proud to show off its results. Ask for case studies, references, or site tours—if they hesitate, that’s your cue to keep looking.

Look for a strong portfolio that includes:

• Multi-property portfolios (especially ones similar to yours)

• Before-and-after shots that show real improvement, not just routine mowing

• Clients in the same geographic region, meaning the company understands your local ecosystem

• Long-standing contracts—a sign of client satisfaction and retention

Better yet, speak to other property managers in your area. Word-of-mouth recommendations can give you honest insight into how the company performs when no one’s watching.

Choose a Florida Landscaping Partner, Not Just a Provider

Commercial landscaping in Florida isn’t a plug-and-play service. It takes a proactive team that knows your region, respects your property, and delivers consistent quality no matter the season. Whether you manage a Class A office park in Tampa or an HOA in Fort Myers, your landscaping should be an asset—not a liability.

At Sunrise Landscape, we specialize in commercial properties across Southwest and Central Florida. Our teams are trained, certified, and equipped to handle every aspect of large-scale Florida landscaping, from irrigation optimization to storm recovery. When you work with us, you’re not just hiring a vendor—you’re gaining a reliable partner invested in your property’s long-term value.

Let’s discuss how we can elevate your landscape. Contact Sunrise Landscape today for a customized consultation.

FAQ: Florida Landscaping for Commercial Property Managers

Q1: What’s the best time of year to start a new landscaping contract in Florida?
Spring is often ideal for launching new service contracts, especially before the peak summer growth season. It allows your team to implement pre-emergent weed control, mulch application, and inspect irrigation systems before they’re put to the test.

Q2: How often should turf be fertilized in Florida’s climate?
In most of Florida, turf should be fertilized 3–5 times per year depending on grass type, soil conditions, and regional ordinances. Look for a Florida landscaping company that follows University of Florida IFAS guidelines to avoid overapplication and runoff issues.

Q3: Can native plants really reduce maintenance costs?
Absolutely. Native and Florida-friendly plants are adapted to the local environment, requiring less water, fertilizer, and pest control. Over time, they reduce maintenance needs and can help your property qualify for water conservation rebates.

Q4: How can I make sure landscaping won’t disrupt my tenants or customers?
Choose a provider with experience in commercial scheduling. The right company will offer flexible service windows, silent equipment options, and traffic coordination to minimize disruption.

Jay Grimaldi

Jay Grimaldi has been a leading figure in commercial landscaping services for over 40 years, operating out of Tampa, Florida. Since 1978, his company, Sunrise Landscape, has worked to transform Florida’s landscapes. With a team that includes certified arborists and horticulturalists, they prioritize top-notch care for properties and the environment. Their work spans from installation to protection and enhancement of landscapes.