As the weather warms up, homeowners and businesses start thinking about lawn care and landscaping services. If you’re looking to attract new clients for spring and summer but don’t want to invest in paid advertising, there are plenty of effective strategies you can implement for free. Here’s how you can grow your business using only time and effort.

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1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile (GBP)

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Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of the most powerful tools for attracting local customers. When people search for “lawn care near me” or “landscaping services in [your city],” your GBP listing helps you show up in search results.

• Ensure all information is accurate – Double-check your business name, phone number, website, and service areas for consistency.
• Upload fresh photos regularly – Before-and-after shots of your work can make a strong impression.
• Encourage customer reviews – The more positive reviews you have, the more likely you are to rank higher in search results.
• Respond to all reviews – Thank customers for positive feedback and professionally address any negative comments.

2. Leverage Social Media

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Social media is a free and effective way to promote your lawn care services. Facebook, Instagram, and Nextdoor are especially useful for reaching local customers.

• Post high-quality photos and videos – Show off your best landscaping projects, freshly mowed lawns, and seasonal clean-ups.
• Educate your audience – Share lawn care tips to position yourself as an expert.
• Share customer testimonials – Post positive reviews to build trust and attract new clients.
• Join local Facebook groups – Many communities have neighborhood groups where people ask for service recommendations.
• Ask for shares – Friends, family, and current customers can help spread the word about your business.

3. Start a Referral Program

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Word-of-mouth marketing is one of the best ways to grow your lawn care business. A simple referral program can encourage existing customers to bring in new clients.

• Offer a small incentive for referrals, such as a free lawn mowing or discount on a future service for every new customer they send your way.
• Make it easy for people to refer you by providing a simple message they can forward to friends or family.
• Even if you don’t offer an incentive, simply asking satisfied clients for referrals can bring in more business.

4. Go Door-to-Door (Without Selling)

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Traditional door-to-door sales can feel pushy, but there’s an effective way to introduce your business without making people uncomfortable.

• Instead of knocking on doors to pitch your services, leave behind door hangers or business cards in neighborhoods where you want to work.
• Include a QR code on your flyers that links to your website, Google Business Profile, or online booking page.
• Focus on homes that clearly need lawn care help—overgrown lawns, unkempt flower beds, or visible weeds indicate potential customers.

5. Network in Your Community

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Building relationships within your community can lead to valuable word-of-mouth referrals. Connecting with the right people can bring in steady business.

• Reach out to real estate agents and property managers – They often need lawn care services for properties they manage or sell.
• Partner with other home service businesses – Pressure washers, gutter cleaners, and pest control companies all serve similar customers.
• Attend local events – Farmers' markets, community fairs, and networking meetups provide great opportunities to meet potential customers.

6. Update Your Website & Listings

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A strong online presence helps potential customers find and trust your business. If your website and directory listings are outdated or incomplete, you could be missing out on leads.

• Make sure your website is simple and professional – It should clearly list your services, service areas, and contact information.
• Add a “Get a Free Quote” button – Encourage potential clients to contact you.
• List your business on free directories – Websites like Yelp, Angi, and Nextdoor allow you to create a free business listing.

Final Thoughts

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Growing your lawn care and landscaping business for the spring and summer doesn’t have to cost a fortune. By focusing on free marketing strategies like optimizing your Google Business Profile, leveraging social media, and encouraging referrals, you can attract new customers and build a thriving business. With a little effort and consistency, you’ll be fully booked for the season in no time.