The green industry is changing quickly. New technology, labor shortages, environmental rules, and rising customer expectations are all shaping how lawn care, landscaping, pest control, and tree-care companies operate. As we move into 2026, staying ahead of these changes will help local businesses protect their revenue and stay competitive.
For business owners thinking about expansion—or considering converting their company into a SpringGreen franchise—understanding these trends is essential. SpringGreen has been helping local entrepreneurs grow since 1977 and today supports more than 150 franchisees across the United States. Their long history and proven systems offer a stable path forward as the industry evolves.
Below are the biggest trends that green-industry business owners should prepare for in 2026.
1. Homeowners Will Continue Investing in Outdoor Living Space
Homeowners are spending more on landscaping, turf care, outdoor upgrades, and curb appeal. The National Association of Landscape Professionals reports that Americans spend over $140 billion annually on lawn, landscape, and garden care — a number expected to rise through 2026 as more families invest in outdoor living (source: NALP).
Customers now expect more than simple lawn mowing. They want long-term turf health, weed prevention, pest control, and science-based lawn care programs.
How to stay competitive:
- Offer full-season programs, not one-time services.
- Educate customers on the value of soil health and consistent treatment.
- Promote bundled services that simplify their life.
SpringGreen’s model supports franchise partners with a wide range of turf, tree, and pest services—making it easier to meet today’s broader customer expectations.
2. Labor Shortages Will Continue Through 2026
Finding and keeping good employees will remain a challenge. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce notes that there are more job openings than available workers in service industries, a trend that will continue into 2026 (source: U.S. Chamber).
For many small operators, this creates stress, higher wages, and longer workdays.
How to stay competitive:
- Standardize training so new hires can get up to speed faster.
- Build route density to reduce drive time.
- Use simple software tools to streamline scheduling and reduce paperwork.
- Document tasks so you rely less on tribal knowledge.
SpringGreen franchise partners benefit from structured training, operational systems, and marketing support—giving them an advantage when labor is tight.
3. More States Will Add Fertilizer and Pesticide Regulations
Environmental concerns continue to shape new regulations. Many states are adding rules related to fertilizer application, pesticide use, and stormwater protection. The EPA’s nutrient management guidelines are pushing states to enforce stronger compliance measures (source: EPA).
Customers also want to know the products used on their lawn are safe and environmentally responsible.
How to stay competitive:
- Stay informed about state-level fertilizer and pesticide changes.
- Offer eco-friendly options when possible.
- Train your team on proper application and safety.
- Communicate clearly with customers about your processes.
SpringGreen continuously updates product selection, safety standards, and training so franchise partners stay compliant and confident.
4. Customers Expect a Digital Experience — Not Paperwork
Customers today want fast quotes, online payments, text reminders, and easy communication. A recent PwC study found that 73% of consumers say customer experience is a major factor when choosing a service company (source: PwC).
Homeowners expect the same convenience from lawn care providers as they get from their bank, grocery store, or Amazon account.
How to stay competitive:
- Add online service sign-ups and automated billing.
- Use a CRM to track leads and renewals.
- Offer text updates and digital notifications.
- Keep a strong Google presence with current photos and reviews.
SpringGreen franchise partners receive access to technology, automated marketing, and lead-management systems—tools that are costly for small operators to build on their own.
5. Recurring Revenue Will Be the Standard
The most successful green-industry companies in 2026 will be those built on predictable, recurring programs. Homeowners want full-season packages that include fertilization, weed control, pest management, aeration, and tree/shrub care.
This trend makes revenue much more stable.
How to stay competitive:
- Encourage customers to sign up for annual care programs.
- Educate them on long-term results, not single treatments.
- Automate renewals and reduce admin time.
- Build relationships that last for years.
SpringGreen’s entire business model is built around recurring revenue, predictable scheduling, and long-term customer retention—one reason many independent operators explore a conversion.
6. Consolidation Will Increase — and Small Operators Must Adapt
Private equity firms and national brands continue buying local lawn and pest businesses. IBISWorld reports ongoing growth in the landscaping sector and expects acquisition activity to stay strong through 2026 (source: IBISWorld).
This puts pressure on smaller operators who must compete with companies that have bigger marketing budgets and advanced systems.
How to stay competitive:
- Evaluate whether aligning with a larger system could help you grow.
- Understand your business’s value if you’re considering selling.
- Consider a conversion model for support while keeping your independence.
SpringGreen offers a unique conversion path where independent business owners can maintain control of their company while gaining the systems, training, and brand power of a national franchise that has been operating since 1977.
Final Thoughts: Preparing Your Business for 2026 and Beyond
The green industry will continue evolving, but the companies that prepare now will have the biggest advantages. Whether you plan to grow your business, streamline your operations, or explore converting to a proven franchise model, staying ahead of these 2026 trends will protect your revenue and help you compete with both local operators and national brands.
SpringGreen has supported green-industry professionals for nearly 50 years, and their network of 150+ franchisees continues to grow. If you’re exploring new ways to stabilize your business, improve systems, or prepare for the future, the SpringGreen team can help you evaluate your next step.