Google’s search results are changing — again. And this time, it’s with the introduction of something called AI Overviews.

You might have seen it already: a box at the top of the results page summarising answers using generative AI. It pulls together content from across the web to give users a quick, conversational answer — often before they even click a link.

For most businesses, this update raises questions. For landscapers, it brings both challenges and opportunities.

So what are SEO experts saying? And more importantly — what should you do about it?

What Are AI Overviews?

AI Overviews are Google’s latest feature, rolling out across Australia and other markets in 2025. It’s part of Google’s move towards what they’re calling the Search Generative Experience (SGE).

Instead of a list of links, users now see a summary box that answers their question using AI — often pulling in quotes, links, and context from multiple sources.

It looks something like this:

Q: How much does it cost to landscape a small backyard in Sydney?
Google AI Overview:
“Backyard landscaping in Sydney typically ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on design complexity, materials, and site access. Common elements include turf, retaining walls, garden beds and paving…”

This summary may appear above traditional organic results — which means fewer clicks are flowing to individual websites.

What SEO Experts Are Saying

SEO specialists are responding in three main ways:

1. “Don’t panic — but do adapt.”

AI Overviews don’t eliminate the need for SEO — but they change it. Content still matters. Authority still matters. But being part of the AI-generated answer is the new goal.

2. “Focus on helpful, well-structured content.”

Experts like Lily Ray and Marie Haynes are advising businesses to lean into content clarity, trust signals, and topic authority. Google’s AI is looking for reliable, well-written information it can summarise — especially from reputable local sources.

3. “Local businesses have an edge.”

Surprisingly, small local businesses can still win visibility. Why? Because when users add location-based intent (“in Melbourne”, “near me”), Google leans heavily on Google Business Profiles, local pages, and reviews.

What This Means for Landscaping Businesses

Your Blog May Be Quoted — Or Replaced

If you’ve written helpful articles like “How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Brisbane?” or “Best Low-Maintenance Plants for Melbourne Gardens,” Google’s AI might quote your content directly.

But if your content is generic or outdated, it might be skipped entirely — or worse, replaced by summaries from larger competitors.

Google Business Profile is More Important Than Ever

When AI Overviews include local intent, they often show map listings or pull information from your Google Business Profile (GBP).

Make sure yours is:

• Claimed and verified

• Up to date with services, opening hours and service areas

• Full of client reviews and fresh project photos
  

Being present in both organic results and the local pack gives you multiple chances to be seen — even with AI at play.

Structured, Specific Content Will Win

Want to stay visible in an AI-first search world? Your website needs content that’s:

• Well-structured with clear headings, lists, and FAQs

• Location-specific — e.g. “Retaining Wall Tips for Hilly Backyards in the Adelaide Hills”

• Rich in detail, not fluff

• Authoritative, including your credentials, years of experience, or client results

How to Prepare Your Landscaping Business for AI Overviews

• Refresh your existing blogs to ensure they answer questions clearly and accurately

• Add FAQs to key service pages

• Write content around real customer questions you hear every week

• Keep your Google Business Profile updated monthly

• Ask for more client reviews and add local keywords to your responses

Remember: Google’s AI can’t make up your expertise. It needs to find it on your site.

Stay Ahead of the SEO Curve

AI Overviews are changing how people find local services — but they’re also a chance for the most trusted, helpful, and visible landscapers to shine.

At Terra Digital, we help landscaping businesses adapt to these changes with SEO strategies built for today’s search — and tomorrow’s.

Want to check how your business might be affected by AI Overviews? Let’s chat.