Who Are We?

“I started landscaping back in 2012 when I was in middle school as Alex’s Backyard Business. Over the years the business has grown and evolved from a couple yards into what it is today, Black Belt Landscaping. We are a company that is committed to providing high-quality service to both commercial and residential clients across central MA.”

“At Black Belt Landscaping, we take pride in our dependability, dedication to our customers, and commitment to exceeding expectations.

Our team is ready to take on any project—whether it’s regular maintenance or transforming a yard that’s been neglected for years.

If your property feels overwhelming, you’re short on time, or you’re simply ready for a service provider you can trust, we’re here to deliver results you’ll be proud of. From taming overgrown yards to creating legendary landscapes, you can count on Black Belt Landscaping to get the job done the right way“

Alex Bickerstaff, Owner

Alex started Alex's Backyard Business

In 2012, Alex started Alex’s Backyard Business, mowing lawns in his neighborhood with his dad’s old push mower. His parents had told him that if he wanted a laptop, he’d need to earn it himself—so at just 13 years old, Alex picked up one of the few jobs he could do: cutting grass. As the business grew, Alex’s parents supported him by driving him to clients’ homes, where he often used their mowers and tractors to get the job done while his parents chatted with the clients inside. Even in those early days, hard work and a focus on customer relationships laid the foundation for what would eventually become Black Belt Landscaping.

Our Services

A Father-Son Operation

After landing his first commercial client—a small bed and breakfast in Shrewsbury—Alex knew borrowing clients’ equipment wouldn’t cut it anymore. He folded down the backseats of his mom’s minivan, loaded up his tools, and turned it into his first “work truck.” Still too young to drive, Alex’s dad would take him and the van to the B&B on weekends. While Alex mowed, his dad trimmed the garden beds—with scissors—because neither of them knew a better way at the time. His dad, his first “employee,” helped any way he could for just $5 a day, setting the tone for a family-driven work ethic that continues today.

Our Services

From Passenger to Driver

Once Alex earned his driver’s license, he could finally transport himself from job to job. Without his own vehicle at first, he continued using the family van. Eventually, he bought his first car—a 2001 Subaru Forester—which quickly became the company’s flagship vehicle. With a few two-by-fours and screws, Alex transformed the Subaru into a makeshift work truck, fitting all his equipment into the back seats and strapping extra gear to a rooftop storage box borrowed from the family van. It wasn’t fancy, but it got the job done—and it fueled the company’s next phase of growth.

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The Birth of Black Belt Landscaping

In Fall 2017, Alex bought his first real work truck—a 2011 F-150—along with his grandmother’s tractor and the family trailer, setting the stage for a bigger future. By spring 2018, Black Belt Landscaping officially launched with the slogan “Fighting Untamed Yards Since 2012.” That year, Alex upgraded to a 7x14 enclosed trailer and a Honda 52" walk-behind mower. As high school wrapped up, Alex brought on his younger brother and a few friends from church to help for the summer—some of whom are still with the company today. As winter approached, Black Belt Landscaping expanded into snow removal with its first plow truck: a well-worn 2004 F-250.

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Growth Amid Uncertainty

When 2020 rolled around, Alex set his sights on hiring his first full-time employee. The arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic brought uncertainty—but also opportunity. That spring, Black Belt Landscaping hired its first full-time team member, followed by a second later that summer. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, 2020 was a breakout year for the company, with the phone ringing off the hook and demand for services skyrocketing.

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Building for the Future

As Black Belt Landscaping moves into 2025, growth and innovation remain at the forefront. With a skilled team, expanded services, and a commitment to top-quality work, we’re focused on refining operations and continuing to serve our community with excellence. Investing in new equipment, improving efficiency, and strengthening client relationships are top priorities as we take on bigger projects and push the business to new heights. The goal? Keep raising the bar, deliver outstanding results, and build a company that stands the test of time.

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2012 - The Beginning

2013 - First Commerical Client

2015 - Gaining Independence

2017 - The Birth of Black Belt Landscaping

2020 - Growth Through Uncertainty

2025 - Looking Ahead

Meet our staff

Our profesional team

Alex Bickerstaff

Owner & President

Founder and Owner of Black Belt Landscaping. Helping in all departments and aspects of the companys operations.