Ask these questions when you choosing candidates to interview and bid to provide services:

• How long have they been in business? What is their experience? This isn’t a business you learn overnight. As with any professional service, the more experience, the better. Good Earth Plant Company has been in business since 1977.
• What credentials do they have? Look for specific industry certifications such as the Certified Landscape Professional – Interior designation from the National Association of Landscape Professionals, and the Green Earth – Green Plants Certified Business designation. At the highest level, plantscapers will also have a contractor’s license (C27) and may be LEED AP or WELL Building Standard qualified.
• If you are interested in a green roof, be sure you work with a professional who is a certified Green Roof Professional. Look for “CRP” after his or her name on business cards.
• What do the company website and social media portfolios look like? Good Earth Plant Company invests a LOT of time in our online information. We are proud of our work and we love to share it with people. You should be able to review current work and see the scale and creativity of the company’s projects. Would you be proud to have the same kind of interiorscaping in your workplace or home?
• What professional organizations do they belong to? Membership and active participation in national professional trade organizations such as Green Plants for Green Buildings, the Tropical Plant Industry Association, American Horticultural Society, U.S. Green Building Council, and local horticulture associations signifies an interest in keeping up with the latest trends, technology, and best practices. Good Earth Plant Company is actively involved in these groups and more.
• Are they willing to provide professional references? Pretty pictures on a website are a good start, but they aren’t enough. What do current clients tell you? How are the employees to work with? Do they do a good job? Do they provide excellent customer service? Good Earth Plant Company is proud of our references.
• Does the business have proof of liability and workers compensation insurance? Does it have a business license? State contractor’s license?
• Are the Horticultural Technicians professional? Are they well trained? Have they undergone a background check? Do they wear a uniform?