Common Commercial Landscaping Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

A well-maintained landscape is one of the first things people notice about a commercial property, but it’s also one of the easiest things to overlook. Whether it’s an office building, retail space, apartment complex, or HOA-managed community, landscaping can quietly shape how visitors, tenants, and customers perceive your entire business.

At Bowman’s Best Lawn Care, we work with commercial properties across Wilmington, Ogden, and Carolina Beach, and we’ve seen what works, and what doesn’t. Here are some of the most common commercial landscaping mistakes and how to fix them.

Mistake #1: Relying on a “Mow and Go” Crew

Basic mowing isn’t enough to maintain a polished, professional landscape. Over time, skipping regular trimming, edging, weed control, and plant care leads to overgrowth, patchy turf, and a tired-looking property.

What to do instead:
Work with a full-service landscaping team that goes beyond the basics. You want consistent care, attention to detail, and a team that understands seasonal needs, not just someone who cuts the grass and leaves.

Mistake #2: Choosing Plants That Don’t Belong

We see this all the time, plants that look great when installed but struggle (or die) after one season. Coastal winds, sandy soil, and temperature swings in southeastern North Carolina can be tough on plants that aren’t suited to the region.

What to do instead:
Choose native or well-adapted species that thrive in our USDA Zone 8b climate. A professional landscape installer can help you select shrubs, grasses, and trees that will actually last, and look good doing it.

Mistake #3: Letting Irrigation Run on Autopilot

Too much water? Dead patches. Not enough? Stressed turf and dying plants. And if your irrigation system runs at the wrong time of day (or during rain), it’s not just wasteful, it can damage your landscape.

What to do instead:
Have your irrigation system checked seasonally. Adjust for current weather, and make sure coverage is even. Smart timers and zone-specific planning go a long way toward protecting your investment.

Mistake #4: Forgetting About Curb Appeal

From overgrown shrubs at the entrance to faded mulch and untrimmed walkways, small details can make a property look neglected. It’s not just about appearance, it affects leasing, tenant satisfaction, and even safety.

What to do instead:
Focus on first impressions. Refresh mulch regularly, prune entrances, and use low-voltage lighting to highlight signage, walkways, and common areas. These upgrades are low-effort and high-impact.

Mistake #5: Waiting Until Something Breaks to Call for Help

Many commercial properties operate reactively, only calling in landscapers when something looks bad or breaks down. But that approach leads to higher costs and inconsistent results.

What to do instead:
Proactive landscape management is key. Regular maintenance, seasonal upgrades, and long-term planning help prevent issues and stretch your budget further.

Set Your Property Up for Success

Landscaping doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does need to be consistent. At Bowman’s Best Lawn Care, we help commercial property managers, builders, and HOA boards across New Hanover County keep their landscapes healthy, polished, and hassle-free.

Get in touch here if you’d like to schedule a site visit or learn more about our commercial landscaping services.