Business Details
28 Years
experience
Your Trusted Landscaping Partner in Des Moines, IA
Capital Landscaping has been transforming outdoor spaces in the Des Moines, Iowa area since 1998. As a full-service landscaping and outdoor living company, we specialize in residential landscapes and outdoor living spaces, offering comprehensive services from initial design to final installation. Our team works closely with clients to create custom designs that incorporate unique elements like water features, retaining walls, and hardscape materials. We pride ourselves on delivering functional, beautiful landscapes that enhance property value and family enjoyment.With decades of combined experience, our professionals bring expertise in lawn care, garden maintenance, and seasonal services including snow removal. Our commitment to quality is evident in every project, from small updates to large-scale installations. We serve Des Moines and surrounding communities including West Des Moines, Urbandale, Johnston, Ankeny, and Waukee. Our portfolio showcases diverse projects demonstrating technical skill and creative vision. Customer satisfaction remains our top priority through personalized service and attention to detail.
Services
Residential Landscapes
Outdoor Living
Lawn & Garden
Retaining Walls
Mosquito Control
Water Features
Snow Removal
Irrigation Systems
Soil Restoration
Fire Pits
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience in Iowa landscaping since 1998
- Our team offers custom designs tailored to individual property needs
- We provide comprehensive services from design to maintenance
- Our professionals specialize in both softscape and hardscape elements
- We guarantee satisfaction with quality workmanship and attention to detail
Services
Residential Landscapes
Our residential landscaping service creates custom outdoor spaces using water features, retaining walls, and hardscape materials. We specialize in transforming yards through collaborative design processes that incorporate client preferences for plants and materials. Services include new construction integration and existing landscape upgrades, focusing on enhancing property aesthetics and functionality while maintaining ecological balance.
Outdoor Living
We design and build functional outdoor living areas including kitchens, fireplaces, and decks. Our team constructs custom elements like BBQ islands and pergolas that withstand Iowa weather while providing entertainment value. Each project combines aesthetic appeal with practical considerations for family use, ensuring durable installations that complement existing architecture and landscaping features.
Mosquito Control
Our mosquito control programs use EPA-registered solutions to eliminate breeding grounds and reduce populations. We offer seasonal plans with monthly treatments and on-demand services using environmentally conscious methods. Technicians apply barrier treatments that last 21 days while maintaining safety for pets and plants, with commercial and event-specific solutions available for larger spaces.
Retaining Walls
We install custom retaining walls using interlocking blocks, boulders, or timber materials to address sloped properties. Our designs prevent soil erosion while creating usable yard space, with options for decorative garden beds and functional terracing. Each installation considers structural requirements and aesthetic integration with surrounding landscaping elements.
Water Features
We create custom water features including streams, ponds, and boulder fountains that enhance property aesthetics. Our designs incorporate recirculating systems for environmental efficiency while providing soothing auditory elements. Installations range from simple boulder fountains to complex waterfall systems integrated with existing outdoor living spaces.
People
Phil Glaser
General Manager
Founder of Capital Landscaping with 25+ years experience. Started career at Des Moines Seed and Nursery, served in the Army, and returned to landscaping in 1998. Combines military discipline with horticultural passion.
Katharina Glaser
Office Manager
Handles billing and office operations since company founding. Moved from Berlin in 1987 after meeting Phil during his military service. Manages day-to-day administrative functions with four feline companions including office cat Mr. B.
Rene Ibarra
Operations Manager
2007 hire who oversees crews and specializes in patios, pergolas, and fireplaces. Balances family life with salsa dancing hobbies while ensuring quality control across all landscaping installations and maintenance projects.
Monica Emerson
Client Relations Manager
Horticulture and photography graduate with 17+ years experience. Returned in 2024 after running her own floral business. Specializes in client communication and marketing while managing residential and commercial design projects.
Cody Fox
Landscape Designer
2025 hire specializing in residential designs and water features. Iowa State University graduate with expertise in hardscapes and commercial project management. Enjoys boating and fishing when not creating outdoor living spaces.
Questions
What services does Capital Landscaping offer?
We provide full-service landscaping including design, installation, and maintenance. Specialties include outdoor living spaces, retaining walls, water features, mosquito control, and seasonal lawn care in central Iowa.
When is the best time for landscaping projects?
Spring is ideal for planting, while summer suits major hardscaping. Fall works for tree planting and irrigation. Start planning in winter to secure preferred installation timelines.
Do you need professional lawn maintenance?
Professional care ensures healthy lawns that increase property value, improve air quality, and control erosion. Our services maintain optimal lawn health through proper mowing, aeration, and fertilization.
How does mosquito control work?
Our barrier treatments use EPA-registered products applied every 21 days. The synthetic pyrethroid solution targets mosquitoes while remaining safe for pets and plants after drying.
What's the difference between landscaping and hardscaping?
Landscaping includes both hardscaping (stone structures, decks) and softscaping (planting, grading). We offer complete design-build services integrating both elements for functional outdoor spaces.
How do I schedule services?
Contact us through our website form or call 515-244-2724. Our team will discuss your needs and schedule consultations or treatments at your convenience.
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