Question 1

How much does lawn care cost in Madison, WI?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the service and your property size, but here are realistic Madison ranges: Weekly mowing runs $45-85/visit for most lots. A 5-step fertilization program is $250-375/year. Core aeration is $100-150. Spring and fall cleanups run $200-500 each. Snow removal seasonal contracts are $475-1,100. Our pricing page at tgyardcare.com/plans breaks down three bundled plans starting at $55/visit. Every property is different — get your exact price at tgyardcare.com/contact or call (608) 535-6057.

Question 2

Do I need a contract or can I do one-time service?

Accepted Answer

We offer both. Most mowing customers are on weekly recurring schedules, but there's no contract required — you can cancel anytime with no penalty. One-time services like aeration, mulching, spring/fall cleanup, and gutter cleaning are always available without any commitment. Our seasonal plans (Full Season Care and Complete Annual) do offer discounted pricing in exchange for a seasonal commitment, but even those can be cancelled with 30 days notice.

Question 3

Are you licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. TG Yard Care is a registered Wisconsin LLC with $1 million in commercial general liability insurance and full workers' compensation coverage for every crew member. Every person on our crew is background-checked. We're happy to provide a certificate of insurance on request — just ask. Many HOAs and property management companies require this, and we have it ready to send same-day.

Question 4

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve Madison and the surrounding Dane County communities: Middleton, Waunakee, Sun Prairie, Monona, Fitchburg, Verona, McFarland, Cottage Grove, DeForest, Oregon, Stoughton, and Cross Plains. If you're within 20 miles of downtown Madison, you're almost certainly in our service area. Not sure? Call (608) 535-6057 or enter your address in our instant quote tool — it'll tell you immediately.

Question 5

Do you offer senior or military discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer a 10% discount for seniors (65+) and active military or veterans on all services. Just mention it when you request your quote, or let your crew lead know. The discount applies to one-time services and recurring plans alike. We also offer a neighborhood discount — if we serve 3+ homes on the same street, everyone gets a reduced rate.

Question 6

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex), ACH bank transfer, Venmo, and checks. Recurring customers can set up auto-pay through our Jobber customer portal — your card is charged after each completed service. No payment is ever collected before the work is done. Commercial clients and seasonal plan customers receive monthly invoices with net-15 terms.

Question 7

Can I get a quote without someone coming to my property?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our instant quote wizard at tgyardcare.com/contact uses satellite imagery and your property details to generate a 90%+ accurate estimate in under 2 minutes. No visit required, no phone call needed. For large or complex properties, we may follow up with a quick on-site visit to confirm details — but even then, you'll have a ballpark number within minutes of submitting your request.

Question 8

What happens if it rains on my scheduled day?

Accepted Answer

We reschedule within 24-48 hours, always within the same week. Mowing wet grass damages your lawn (clumping, tearing, disease spread), so we never mow in heavy rain. Light drizzle is usually fine. You'll get a text notification if we need to reschedule. For recurring customers, we shift to the next available day and return to your normal schedule the following week. No charge for weather reschedules — ever.

Question 9

What is your satisfaction guarantee?

Accepted Answer

If you're not happy with any service, call us within 48 hours at (608) 535-6057 and we'll come back to make it right at no extra charge. No arguing, no excuses. If we can't fix it to your satisfaction, we refund that service. We've been doing this since 2024 and maintain a 5-star average on Google because we take this seriously.

Question 10

Do you serve commercial properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We service both residential and commercial properties throughout Dane County — office parks, retail centers, HOAs, apartment complexes, and property management portfolios. Commercial clients get dedicated account management, priority scheduling, and monthly invoicing. Contact us at (608) 535-6057 or tgyardcare.com/contact for a commercial property quote.

Question 11

How often should I have my lawn mowed?

Accepted Answer

During peak growing season (spring/early summer), we recommend weekly mowing to maintain a healthy, attractive lawn. In slower growth periods, bi-weekly service works well. We'll assess your lawn and recommend the best schedule for your property.

Question 12

What height do you cut the grass?

Accepted Answer

We follow best practices and typically maintain grass at 3-3.5 inches. This height promotes healthy root growth, reduces weeds, and helps your lawn stay green during dry periods. We can adjust based on grass type and your preferences.

Question 13

How often should garden beds be weeded?

Accepted Answer

We recommend weeding every 2-4 weeks during growing season to prevent weeds from establishing deep roots and spreading seeds. Regular maintenance keeps beds looking pristine and reduces long-term weed pressure.

Question 14

Do you remove weeds from the roots?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We hand-pull weeds to remove the entire root system, preventing regrowth. This is more effective than surface cutting and keeps your beds weed-free longer.

Question 15

What type of mulch do you use?

Accepted Answer

We primarily use premium hardwood mulch in natural brown or black colors. It looks beautiful, suppresses weeds, retains moisture, and enriches soil as it breaks down. We can also source specialty mulches upon request.

Question 16

How deep should mulch be applied?

Accepted Answer

We apply 2-3 inches of fresh mulch, which is the ideal depth for weed suppression and moisture retention without suffocating plant roots. If existing mulch is present, we'll top-dress to achieve proper depth.

Question 17

When is the best time for leaf removal?

Accepted Answer

We typically perform leaf removal in late fall after most leaves have dropped, though some properties need multiple cleanups. We'll assess your trees and recommend the optimal timing to keep your property pristine.

Question 18

Do you remove leaves from flower beds and gardens?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We remove leaves from all areas including lawns, beds, gardens, driveways, walkways, and patios. We're thorough and ensure your entire property is leaf-free.

Question 19

What's included in spring cleanup service?

Accepted Answer

Spring cleanup includes removing winter debris, clearing dead plant material, raking and dethatching, edging beds, pruning damaged branches, and preparing your property for the growing season. It's a comprehensive refresh after winter.

Question 20

When should I schedule spring cleanup?

Accepted Answer

We recommend scheduling in early-to-mid spring after the ground thaws and before active growth begins. In Wisconsin, this is typically March through early May depending on weather.

Question 21

What's included in fall cleanup service?

Accepted Answer

Fall cleanup includes leaf removal, cutting back perennials, clearing annual beds, removing dead plant material, final mowing, edging, and preparing your property for winter. It's comprehensive end-of-season maintenance.

Question 22

How many fall cleanups will I need?

Accepted Answer

Most properties need 1-2 fall cleanups depending on tree coverage. Properties with heavy tree canopy may benefit from an early cleanup and final cleanup after all leaves drop.

Question 23

How often should gutters be cleaned?

Accepted Answer

We recommend cleaning gutters at least twice per year - once in late spring and once in late fall. Properties with heavy tree coverage may benefit from additional cleanings to prevent clogs.

Question 24

What happens if gutters aren't cleaned regularly?

Accepted Answer

Clogged gutters cause water overflow that damages foundations, basements, landscaping, and siding. Water backup can also rot fascia boards and create ice dams in winter. Regular cleaning prevents expensive repairs.

Question 25

Do gutter guards really work?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Quality gutter guards significantly reduce debris accumulation, minimize cleaning frequency, and prevent clogs. While no system is 100% maintenance-free, guards drastically reduce the work required.

Question 26

What type of gutter guards do you install?

Accepted Answer

We install high-quality mesh and micro-mesh gutter guard systems that block leaves and debris while allowing water flow. We'll recommend the best type for your specific roof, trees, and budget.

Question 27

What's included in a garden bed makeover?

Accepted Answer

Makeovers include removing old/dead plants, refreshing or replacing soil, edging beds, adding new plants of your choice, applying fresh mulch, and creating a cohesive design. It's a complete transformation.

Question 28

Can I choose the plants for my beds?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We work with you to select plants that match your style, color preferences, and maintenance level. We'll recommend options that thrive in your specific sun/shade conditions.

Question 29

How often should I fertilize my lawn?

Accepted Answer

We recommend 4-5 applications per year (spring through fall) for optimal lawn health. This schedule provides consistent nutrients for strong growth, deep roots, and resistance to stress and disease.

Question 30

What's included in your fertilization service?

Accepted Answer

Each application includes premium slow-release fertilizer, pre-emergent weed control (spring), post-emergent weed control (as needed), and lawn analysis to adjust treatments. We customize each application to your lawn's current needs.

Question 31

What types of weeds can you control?

Accepted Answer

We control all common Wisconsin lawn weeds including dandelions, clover, crabgrass, creeping charlie, thistle, and broadleaf weeds. We'll assess your specific weed problems and recommend appropriate treatments.

Question 32

How many herbicide treatments will I need?

Accepted Answer

Most lawns need 2-3 applications per growing season for effective control. Severe infestations may require additional spot treatments. We'll create a customized plan based on your lawn's condition.

Question 33

How quickly do you respond after a snowstorm?

Accepted Answer

We begin plowing during storms and work continuously until all contracted properties are cleared. Most properties are serviced within 4-6 hours after snow stops falling, often sooner.

Question 34

What's your minimum snowfall for plowing?

Accepted Answer

We typically plow when accumulation reaches 2-3 inches. This threshold prevents snow compaction while ensuring efficient service. We can adjust triggers based on your specific needs.

Question 35

How far in advance do I need to book?

Accepted Answer

For regular weekly mowing, we can usually start within 3-5 business days. Seasonal services like spring cleanup, fall cleanup, and aeration should be booked 2-3 weeks ahead — these fill fast, especially in April and September. Snow removal contracts should be locked in by October before routes fill up. The earlier you book, the better your scheduling options. Emergency or same-week service is sometimes available — call (608) 535-6057 to check.

Question 36

What time will my crew arrive?

Accepted Answer

We provide a 30-minute arrival window via text on the morning of your service. Crews typically operate between 7:30 AM and 6:00 PM during the growing season. We don't mow before 8:00 AM in residential neighborhoods out of respect for your neighbors. If you have a specific time preference (morning vs. afternoon), let us know and we'll do our best to accommodate on a consistent basis.

Question 37

Can I skip a week if I'm on vacation?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Just give us 48 hours notice and we'll skip your visit — no charge. You can text us, call, or use the customer portal to manage your schedule. Some customers skip a week during slow-growth periods in mid-summer when their lawn doesn't need it. Completely fine. Your regular schedule resumes automatically the following week.

Question 38

Do you work on weekends?

Accepted Answer

Saturday mornings are available for weekly mowing customers by request. We don't schedule regular lawn maintenance on Sundays. For emergency snow removal, our crews operate 24/7 regardless of day — snowstorms don't respect weekends. One-time services like cleanups and mulching can sometimes be scheduled on Saturdays based on crew availability.

Question 39

When does mowing season start and end in Madison?

Accepted Answer

In the Madison area, mowing season typically runs mid-April through late October — roughly 28 weeks. We start when grass begins actively growing, which happens after 2-3 consecutive weeks of daytime temperatures above 50°F. We end with a final low-cut mow before the first hard freeze (sustained temps below 28°F for 4+ hours). The exact dates shift by 1-2 weeks each year depending on spring warmth and fall cold.

Question 40

How do I reschedule or cancel a visit?

Accepted Answer

Three ways: (1) Text us at (608) 535-6057, (2) Call us, or (3) Use the Jobber customer portal we set up for you at signup. We need 48 hours notice for reschedules and same-week cancellations. For ongoing schedule changes (switching from weekly to biweekly, adding services, etc.), just text or call and we'll update your plan immediately.

Question 41

Do I need to be home during service?

Accepted Answer

No. The vast majority of our customers aren't home when we arrive. As long as we can access your yard (no locked gates blocking the backyard), we'll complete the service and text you when finished. Just let us know about any pets that might be outside, special gate codes, or areas to avoid. We take before/after photos for quality assurance.

Question 42

Can I change my service plan mid-season?

Accepted Answer

Yes, anytime. Want to upgrade from Weekly Mowing to Full Season Care? We'll prorate the difference for the remaining months. Want to add aeration or gutter cleaning as a one-time add-on? No problem. Want to downgrade or pause? 30 days notice and we adjust. No penalty fees, no hassle. Your needs change through the season — your plan should too.

Question 43

Are your products safe for pets and kids?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All lawn treatment products we use are pet-safe and family-friendly after drying, which takes 2-4 hours depending on conditions. We text you before every application with exactly what we're applying and when it's safe for pets and children to return to the lawn. For extra cautious pet owners, we offer fully organic treatment programs with zero synthetic chemicals. We always flag treated areas with small signs.

Question 44

Do your chemicals harm Lake Mendota or Madison's lakes?

Accepted Answer

No. We exclusively use phosphorus-free fertilizers, which is actually required by Dane County ordinance for established lawns in the Lake Mendota watershed. All our products are selected specifically for the Madison area's environmental regulations. We use slow-release granular fertilizers that minimize runoff, and we never apply within 20 feet of waterways. Protecting Madison's lakes isn't just a legal requirement — it's the right thing to do.

Question 45

What do you do with grass clippings?

Accepted Answer

We mulch clippings in place — this is the healthiest approach for your lawn. Mulched clippings return nitrogen and moisture to the soil, reducing your fertilizer needs by up to 25%. If you prefer bagging (for example, during heavy spring growth or before an event), just let us know — we'll bag and remove them. Per City of Madison regulations, grass clippings go to compost, never landfill.

Question 46

Do you use electric or gas equipment?

Accepted Answer

Currently a mix of both. Our mowers and blowers are commercial gas-powered for reliability and performance on larger properties. We're actively transitioning smaller equipment (trimmers, edgers, small blowers) to battery-electric as commercial-grade electric options reach performance parity. For small properties under 1/4 acre, we can use all-electric equipment on request.

Question 47

Is it safe to walk on the lawn after fertilizer application?

Accepted Answer

For adults in shoes, yes — immediately after application is fine. For bare feet, pets, and children, we recommend waiting until the product has been watered in and dried completely — usually 2-4 hours. We text you the exact product applied and safe re-entry time after every application. For weed control (herbicide) applications, we recommend 24 hours before allowing pets to roll in treated areas.

Question 48

How do you handle pesticide and herbicide safety?

Accepted Answer

All herbicide and pesticide applications are performed by trained technicians following Wisconsin DATCP (Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection) regulations. We post notification signs after every application as required by state law. We keep detailed application records available on request. We never apply in windy conditions (above 10 mph) to prevent drift to neighboring properties. If you prefer zero pesticides, ask about our organic weed control program.

Question 49

What happens if your crew accidentally damages my property?

Accepted Answer

It's rare, but it happens — a window nicked by a rock, a sprinkler head clipped, a garden border bumped. If any accidental damage occurs, our $1 million liability insurance covers it. Just let us know within 48 hours. We photograph every property before starting work so we have a baseline. We also mark sprinkler heads, invisible fences, and other hidden features at season start to minimize risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

General & Pricing

Still have questions?

Get Your Quote Today. We'll Respond by Tomorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

General & Pricing

Still have questions?

Get Your Quote Today. We'll Respond by Tomorrow.