The landscape company labor shortage has become one of the most urgent workforce challenges in the United States.
Landscaping businesses across the country are struggling to hire and retain reliable entry-level workers, crew members, and equipment operators.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are more than 1.3 million workers employed in landscaping and groundskeeping roles in the United States, with continued projected demand through the decade.
Despite this large workforce, employers report persistent hiring difficulties.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports that the U.S. labor force participation rate remains below pre-pandemic levels, contributing to widespread labor shortages across industries, including construction, hospitality, and landscaping.
For landscaping companies, the shortage is not just an inconvenience. It directly affects project timelines, revenue, and customer satisfaction.
Why the Landscape Company Labor Shortage Is Getting Worse
Several factors are driving the landscape company labor shortage in 2025.
First, landscaping is physically demanding outdoor work. Many domestic workers prefer indoor jobs in warehouses, logistics, or retail.
Second, landscaping is highly seasonal in many states. Spring and summer bring intense demand, while winter slows operations in colder regions.
Third, competition from other industries is strong. Construction, delivery services, and manufacturing often offer higher wages and year-round employment.
According to BLS wage data, the median annual wage for grounds maintenance workers is approximately $38,470 per year, though wages vary by state and employer.
When workers can earn similar pay in less physically demanding roles, landscaping companies struggle to compete.
The Economic Impact of Landscaping Labor Shortages
Landscaping plays a vital role in residential and commercial property maintenance.
Well-maintained landscapes increase property value, improve curb appeal, and contribute to environmental sustainability.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has identified that many states are facing severe worker shortages relative to job openings.
When landscaping companies cannot hire enough workers, projects are delayed.
Municipal contracts, commercial developments, and residential services may fall behind schedule.
This impacts local economies and reduces growth opportunities for small and mid-sized businesses.
High Turnover and Staffing Gaps
Turnover remains one of the biggest operational challenges.
Many landscaping companies report having multiple open positions at any given time. Employers often spend significant time recruiting, training, and replacing entry-level workers.
Every time an employee leaves, productivity drops.
Crew leaders must train new workers, slowing down project completion.
For companies operating on tight seasonal schedules, this instability can be costly.
How EB-3 Visa Green Card Jobs Help Solve the Landscape Company Labor Shortage
One long-term solution gaining attention is the EB-3 visa green card program, specifically the “Other Workers” category.
The EB-3 immigrant visa allows U.S. employers to sponsor foreign workers for permanent residency in the United States.
Unlike temporary visa programs, EB-3 workers receive lawful permanent resident status.
This allows them to live and work in the United States indefinitely.
For landscaping employers, this means workforce stability.
The EB-3 “Other Workers” category is specifically designed for positions requiring less than two years of training or experience. Landscaping labor roles such as groundskeeping, planting, irrigation installation, and general maintenance typically qualify.
Before sponsorship, employers must complete the PERM labor certification process through the U.S. Department of Labor.
Permanent workers are more likely to remain with the employer long-term.
That means fewer staffing disruptions, lower hiring costs, and more stable crews throughout the year.
EB-3 vs. H-2B: What Is the Difference?
Landscaping companies also use the H-2B temporary worker program for seasonal needs.
The H-2B visa allows employers to hire foreign nationals for temporary non-agricultural work.
However, H-2B visas are capped at 66,000 per fiscal year.
They are also temporary, meaning workers must return home after their authorized stay.
In contrast, EB-3 visa green card jobs provide permanent residence.
This makes them an attractive option for employers facing chronic, year-round labor shortages rather than temporary peak-load demands.
How To Apply for an EB-3 Visa for Landscaping Jobs (Step-by-Step)
If you are a foreign worker interested in landscaping jobs in the United States through the EB-3 program, here is a simplified step-by-step overview.
Step 1: Find a Sponsoring Employer
You must first secure a full-time, permanent job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor you.
Step 2: Employer Files PERM Labor Certification
The employer files a labor certification application with the U.S. Department of Labor through the FLAG system. This confirms that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the role.
Step 3: Employer Files Form I-140
After PERM approval, the employer submits Form I-140 Immigrant Petition with USCIS.
Step 4: Wait for Priority Date to Become Current
You must monitor the Visa Bulletin published by the U.S. Department of State to see when your priority date becomes current.
Step 5: Apply for Immigrant Visa or Adjustment of Status
If you are outside the U.S., you apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate. If you are legally inside the U.S., you may file for adjustment of status.
Step 6: Receive Your Green Card
Once approved, you become a lawful permanent resident and can live and work in the United States permanently.
Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping Jobs and the EB-3 Visa
Why are landscaping companies struggling to hire workers?
Landscaping companies struggle to hire workers because the job is physically demanding, seasonal, and competes with higher-paying industries. Many employers report ongoing difficulty filling entry-level roles despite steady demand for services.
What is the EB-3 “Other Workers” category?
The EB-3 “Other Workers” category is an employment-based immigrant visa option for jobs requiring less than two years of training or experience. It allows foreign workers to receive permanent residency through employer sponsorship.
Is the EB-3 visa better than the H-2B visa for landscaping jobs?
The EB-3 visa offers permanent residence, while the H-2B visa is temporary and capped annually. For workers seeking long-term stability and employers needing permanent staff, the EB-3 visa is often a stronger solution.
How long does the EB-3 process take?
Processing times vary depending on labor certification timelines, USCIS processing, and visa availability under the Visa Bulletin. In many cases, the process can take several months to a few years.
Do landscaping jobs qualify under the EB-3 program?
Many landscaping and grounds maintenance roles qualify under the EB-3 “Other Workers” category because they typically require less than two years of training and are considered full-time permanent positions.
Final Thoughts
The landscape company labor shortage is not a short-term disruption. It reflects broader workforce challenges across the United States, including lower labor force participation, high turnover in physically demanding industries, and strong competition from construction, logistics, and warehousing sectors. Landscaping companies need stable, long-term staffing strategies to maintain service quality, meet project deadlines, and continue growing in an increasingly competitive market.
For foreign workers, EB-3 visa green card jobs offer a realistic and permanent pathway to live and work in the United States. Unlike temporary visa programs, the EB-3 “Other Workers” category provides lawful permanent residency, creating security for workers and workforce stability for employers. By understanding how the labor shortage impacts the industry and how the EB-3 process works, applicants can make informed decisions and pursue meaningful career opportunities in one of America’s essential service sectors.
