HIGH IMPACT

How does the Iran war affect landscapers and outdoor service workers?

Quick answer: Landscapers are getting hit hard by the gas price surge -- most equipment runs on gasoline and crews drive trucks between jobs all day. Diesel is up 28%, regular gas up 17%. Fertilizer prices are up 25%+ as the Strait of Hormuz blocks 49% of global urea exports. Some landscapers report fuel now eating 30-40% of revenue.

Last updated: 2026-03-13

The fuel and fertilizer squeeze

Landscapers depend on two things most affected by the war:

Fuel costs:

  • Mowers, trimmers, blowers — all gas-powered
  • Trucks driving between jobs daily
  • Gas up 17% ($2.98 to $3.48/gallon)
  • Diesel up 28% for larger equipment and trucks

Fertilizer costs:

  • Urea (nitrogen fertilizer): 49% of global exports transit Hormuz — now blocked
  • Ammonia: 30% of global exports through Hormuz
  • Prices up 25%+ and rising
  • Spring application season is weeks away

Impact on the business

  • Fuel can represent 15-25% of landscaping business costs (now 25-40%)
  • Many contracts were signed before the war at fixed prices
  • Raising prices mid-season risks losing clients
  • Equipment replacement costs rising (steel, plastic components)

Survival tips

  1. Add fuel surcharges to existing contracts (communicate transparently)
  2. Optimize routes to minimize driving between jobs
  3. Switch to battery-powered equipment where feasible
  4. Apply fertilizer efficiently — soil testing prevents waste
  5. Negotiate bulk fuel purchases with local distributors

Sources: CNN, CNBC

landscaperslawn careoutdoor workersgas pricesfertilizersmall business

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Related Questions

How will the Iran war affect small businesses?

Small businesses face a triple hit: energy costs up 20-35%, supply chain delays of 2-3 weeks, and air freight costs spiking 400% in some cases. Nearly two-thirds of companies expect revenue losses. Restaurants, retailers, and import-dependent businesses are hardest hit.

How does the Iran war affect Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash drivers?

Gig workers are being squeezed hardest. Gas prices are up 17-20% since the war started and diesel is up 35%, but platforms haven't added fuel surcharges. Many drivers report barely breaking even on short rides and deliveries.

Will the fertilizer shortage from the Iran war cause a food crisis?

It's a serious risk. The Strait of Hormuz closure is disrupting one-third of globally traded fertilizer right as spring planting begins. With no strategic fertilizer reserve, experts warn of grocery supply shortages within 3 weeks and higher food prices for months.