Frequently Asked Questions
Categories
General
What types of services do you provide?
We offer a variety of services to keep your outdoor spaces thriving, including:
What are the rates for clean-up services?
Our clean-up services are charged at $103.00 per person, per hour. Here’s the breakdown:
- 1 person: $103.00 per hour
- 2 people: $206.00 per hour (equivalent to $103.00 per person, per hour)
We require a minimum of one hour, charged at $103.00, and all work after that is prorated by the minute. Schedule as many hours as you need, and we’ll make sure to dedicate the required time to your clean-up needs.
How can I arrange for service?
The easiest way to schedule service is to call us during business hours (Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm) at 619-440-3762. You can also complete the form on our website: Contact Us.
Our team, typically 2-3 members, is available to answer calls during office hours. If you reach us after hours, our answering service will collect your information, and we’ll follow up to discuss your yard’s specifics and payment details. Once you approve the estimate we email you, we’ll finalize payment and set up your service.
Is it possible to have service (yard clean-up, gardening, sprinkler repair) done today?
Same-day service may be available, depending on your location and crew availability. For same-day inquiries, please call us at 619-440-3762. Our operating hours are Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm.
What areas do you service?
We provide services throughout most of San Diego County.
How can I reschedule or cancel an appointment with Mueller Landscape?
To reschedule or cancel, please contact our customer service team at least one day before your appointment. You can reach us by:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 619-440-3762 (available after 8 am, Monday to Friday)
Please note that cancellations upon crew arrival will result in a $30.00 trip charge.
Can I get a confirmation of my appointment with Mueller Landscape?
Absolutely! You can request appointment confirmation by contacting us:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 619-440-3762 (available after 8 am, Monday to Friday)
How long has Mueller Landscape been providing landscaping services in San Diego?
Mueller Landscape has been serving San Diego since 1982, with over 30 years of expertise in landscaping and customer satisfaction.
Does Mueller Landscape offer both residential and commercial landscape maintenance?
Yes, we offer landscape maintenance for residential homeowners and commercial properties, ensuring tailored services to meet each client’s needs.
Can I get a free estimate from Mueller Landscape for my landscaping project?
Yes, Mueller Landscape offers free estimates for all landscaping projects. You can call (619) 407-9367 or sign up online for a consultation.
Does Mueller Landscape provide drought-tolerant landscape design?
Yes, we specialize in drought-tolerant landscaping, utilizing plants and techniques ideal for Southern California’s climate.
How often does Mueller Landscape recommend landscape maintenance?
Landscape maintenance frequency depends on your specific needs, but we offer regular services, ensuring your property stays in top condition year-round.
What sustainable practices does Mueller Landscape Inc. use?
Mueller Landscape uses water-efficient systems and drought-tolerant plants, promoting eco-friendly landscaping practices in Southern California.
What does Mueller Landscape’s gardening and landscape maintenance service include?
Mueller Landscape’s San Diego gardening services include mowing, edging, cleaning plant beds, trimming shrubs and ground cover, and pruning low-hanging branches to keep your landscape looking vibrant year-round.
How much does professional gardening in San Diego cost with Mueller Landscape?
Pricing depends on your property size and visit frequency. Mueller Landscape offers flexible weekly and biweekly maintenance plans with transparent, per-lot pricing.
What’s the difference between the Basic (lawn-only) and Full (lawn + garden) gardening packages?
The Basic Package focuses on mowing and edging, while the Full Package adds plant bed cleaning, shrub trimming, and pruning for a complete lawn and garden solution. Learn more about the Gardening Service and Landscape Maintenance options.
How often should I schedule gardening service in San Diego’s coastal climate?
San Diego’s mild weather allows for year-round care. Weekly or biweekly maintenance is recommended to prevent overgrowth and promote a lush, healthy lawn.
When is the best time to begin gardening or landscape maintenance service in San Diego?
Spring and fall are ideal for new starts, but thanks to San Diego’s consistent climate, Mueller Landscape offers landscape maintenance that’s effective any time of year.
Do you offer gardening services near me in San Diego County?
Yes — Mueller Landscape provides gardening services across San Diego County, including La Mesa, El Cajon, Santee, Poway, Chula Vista, Carlsbad, and other nearby communities.
Are Mueller Landscape’s gardeners insured and licensed in San Diego?
Yes. All team members at Mueller Landscape are covered by full workers’ compensation and liability insurance for complete homeowner peace of mind.
Why should I choose Mueller Landscape for gardening and landscaping in San Diego?
As one of the best gardeners in San Diego since 1982, Mueller Landscape is trusted for consistent quality, fair pricing, and skilled crews who understand the local environment.
How does regular gardening service from Mueller Landscape improve curb appeal in San Diego?
Ongoing mowing, pruning, and cleanup enhance your property’s curb appeal and keep your outdoor spaces looking neat, healthy, and well cared for.
What types of plants and gardens grow best in San Diego’s Climate Zone 24?
Mueller Landscape designs and maintains gardens featuring drought-tolerant plants, flowering shrubs, succulents, palms, and other low-water species ideal for San Diego’s coastal climate.
Do you offer a one-time yard cleanup option in San Diego?
Yes — Mueller Landscape offers Yard Clean-Up Service for single or seasonal cleanups. It’s ideal for overgrown or post-storm properties that need a quick refresh.
What if I only need irrigation or sprinkler repair?
You can schedule Irrigation & Sprinkler Repair Service for issues like broken valves, pipe leaks, low pressure, or smart controller installation.
Do you offer eco-friendly or sustainable gardening services?
Yes — Mueller Landscape provides Eco-Friendly Gardening and Landscape Maintenance using water-wise and organic techniques perfect for Southern California’s dry climate.
Can I get only mowing and edging service without full gardening?
Absolutely. Choose the Basic Mow & Edge Service for straightforward lawn care that keeps your grass trimmed and clean.
Is core aeration part of your maintenance plans?
Yes — Mueller Landscape offers Core Aeration Service to reduce soil compaction and improve root growth for stronger, healthier grass.
Will you fertilize my entire lawn and garden?
Yes. Mueller Landscape’s Fertilizing Service ensures your lawn receives essential nutrients on a 90-day schedule for consistent growth and color.
Do you also handle tree trimming and pruning?
Yes — Mueller Landscape provides Tree Trimming Services including shaping, crown reduction, fruit tree pruning, and stump grinding throughout San Diego County.
Can you manage weeds in my lawn along with regular care?
Yes. Our Lawn Weed Control Service targets common San Diego weeds like crabgrass and dandelions with safe, effective herbicide applications.
Does your service include mulch installation for garden beds?
Yes — Mueller Landscape’s Mulch Service adds a polished look while helping retain moisture, reduce weeds, and improve soil health in your garden beds.
Yard Clean Up
What is the average cost of yard cleanup in San Diego?
Yard cleanups in San Diego typically range between $206–$824, depending on the size of the yard and how overgrown it is. At Mueller Landscape Inc., our cleanups are billed hourly so you only pay for the time needed to get your property looking its best.
What does a yard clean-up near me in San Diego consist of?
A yard cleanup includes trimming plants, mowing, removing weeds, blowing leaves, and hauling away green waste. We focus on restoring curb appeal quickly so your yard looks fresh and well cared for.
Do you offer same-day yard clean-ups in San Diego County (e.g., Chula Vista, La Mesa, El Cajon, Santee)?
Yes! When our schedule allows, we can often provide same-day or next-day cleanups anywhere in San Diego County. Just give us a call at 619-514-2063 and we’ll check availability.
What is your hourly rate for yard cleanups in San Diego, and is there a one-hour minimum?
Our yard cleanup services are billed at $103 per man-hour, with a one-hour minimum. Every cleanup is customized to fit your property’s needs and budget.
Which San Diego neighborhoods does Mueller Landscape service for yard cleanup?
We service most of San Diego County, including Chula Vista, La Mesa, Santee, El Cajon, Mission Valley, Point Loma, Clairemont, and surrounding areas. If you’re unsure, just call — we likely service your neighborhood!
What’s your appointment reschedule/cancellation policy, and is there a trip fee if I cancel on arrival?
We understand plans change! If you need to reschedule, please give us at least 24 hours’ notice. Same-day cancellations or no-shows may incur a trip fee to cover crew travel time.
Gardening Service and Landscape Maintenance
What gardening and landscaping services does Mueller Landscape offer in San Diego?
We provide full-service yard care, including mowing, pruning, weeding, fertilizing, planting, and irrigation maintenance — everything your yard needs to stay healthy and beautiful year-round.
How much does a local San Diego gardener or landscaper charge per hour?
Most professional gardeners in San Diego charge between $90–$120 per hour. At Mueller Landscape, our rate is $103 per man-hour, giving you professional-quality results and friendly service.
What’s the difference between a gardener and a landscaper?
A gardener maintains and nurtures your yard regularly, while a landscaper focuses on design and installation. Mueller Landscape offers both — from weekly maintenance to full makeovers.
How can regular landscape maintenance improve my San Diego home’s curb appeal?
Regular maintenance keeps your plants healthy, lawn green, and property looking sharp — all of which boost curb appeal and home value while saving you time.
Can I schedule one-time or recurring gardening services for my yard in San Diego?
Absolutely! You can schedule a one-time visit for a quick spruce-up or sign up for recurring service to keep your yard looking great all year.
Where can I find a trusted gardening and landscaping service company near me in San Diego?
You’ve found it! Mueller Landscape Inc. has been serving San Diego County since 1982. Call 619-514-2063 or visit MuellerLandscapeInc.com to schedule a visit.
Irrigation and Sprinkler Repair
What types of irrigation and sprinkler repairs does Mueller Landscape provide in San Diego?
We repair broken sprinkler heads, valves, timers, and pipes — and install smart controllers like the Hunter Hydrawise for water-efficient irrigation.
How much does it cost to fix a broken irrigation line in San Diego?
Mueller Landscape charges $135.00 for the first 30 minutes, which includes diagnosing the issue and performing initial repairs if possible. After that, time is prorated at the same hourly rate plus materials. Most small irrigation line repairs can be completed within that first service window.
What is the most common issue with irrigation systems in San Diego homes?
The most common problems are leaks, clogged nozzles, and faulty valves, often caused by age, roots, or hard water buildup.
Why is there not enough pressure for my sprinklers to pop up?
Low pressure usually means a leak, clogged filter, or faulty regulator. Our irrigation techs can pinpoint the cause and get full coverage restored quickly.
What type of sprinklers do you service in San Diego County?
We service all major brands including Hunter, Rain Bird, and Toro, as well as drip systems and rotors.
Do I need to be home for my irrigation installation or repair appointment?
Not necessarily — as long as we have gate access and instructions, our techs can perform most repairs without you needing to be home.
What is the best time of year to set up or upgrade an irrigation system in San Diego?
Spring and fall are ideal since temperatures are mild and plants are actively growing, but we handle irrigation work year-round.
Do you offer warranties or guarantees for irrigation and sprinkler repairs in San Diego?
Yes, all irrigation work is backed by a warranty on labor and parts. We stand behind our repairs and installations.
How should I prepare for my irrigation service or estimate appointment?
Please clear pets, provide gate access, and note any problem areas so we can address everything efficiently.
Is there anything I can do myself to troubleshoot or correct an irrigation problem before scheduling a repair?
You can check for visible leaks, clogged heads, or zones not activating, and note what you find. Then we’ll take it from there!
How do I know if my irrigation system needs repair or a full replacement?
If your system is older than 10 years and has frequent leaks or poor coverage, a redesign or upgrade may save you money long-term.
Can Mueller Landscape install smart or WiFi irrigation controllers in San Diego?
Yes! We install and program Hunter Hydrawise and other WiFi-enabled controllers that help you save water and money.
How often should I schedule irrigation system maintenance in San Diego?
We recommend checking your system twice a year — once in spring and again in fall — to ensure everything is working properly.
Do you offer same-day sprinkler repair or emergency irrigation services near me in San Diego?
Yes, depending on location and availability, we can often send an irrigation tech the same day for urgent leaks or malfunctions.
Eco-Friendly Gardening and Landscape Maintenance
Does Mueller Landscape offer organic or water-wise gardening solutions in San Diego?
Absolutely! We specialize in eco-friendly practices, including drought-tolerant plants, drip irrigation, organic fertilizers, and mulch for water retention.
Where can I find an eco-friendly gardening and landscaping service company near me in San Diego?
Mueller Landscape Inc. has been promoting sustainable, climate-smart landscaping since 1982. We’re local, experienced, and eco-conscious.
What is an eco-friendly garden, and how can I create one in San Diego?
An eco-friendly garden uses native plants, mulch, and efficient irrigation to reduce water waste and support local pollinators.
What sustainable gardening practices work best in San Diego’s dry weather?
Using mulch, drip systems, compost, and native plants are the best ways to keep gardens green without wasting water.
How can I create an eco garden suited for San Diego’s climate and soil?
Start with California natives or Mediterranean species, improve soil with compost, and install drip irrigation for slow, deep watering.
What is the 3-hour gardening rule, and how can it help maintain a healthy yard?
It means spending a few hours every few weeks tending your garden to prevent overgrowth and keep plants healthy year-round.
What is the 3-year rule in gardening, and why is it important for San Diego homeowners?
Plants typically take three years to fully establish — the first year they sleep, the second they creep, and the third they leap!
What is the 70/30 rule in gardening, and how does it apply to San Diego landscapes?
It means designing your garden with 70% evergreen structure and 30% colorful accents for a balanced, low-maintenance look.
Basic Mow and Edge
Does Mueller Landscape offer same-day or recurring lawn mowing services near me in San Diego?
Yes! We offer both recurring weekly/biweekly mowing and occasional mow-and-edge visits depending on your yard’s needs.
How often should I mow and edge my lawn in San Diego for the best results?
Weekly mowing keeps grass healthy and prevents thatch buildup. During cooler months, biweekly is usually enough.
What does a basic mow and edge service include for San Diego homes?
Mowing, edging, blowing, and a quick tidy-up of your lawn areas — everything to keep your yard looking neat and professional.
How much does professional lawn mowing and edging cost in San Diego?
Our mow-and-edge service starts at $103 per man-hour, with a one-hour minimum.
Is it better to mow your lawn weekly or biweekly in San Diego’s climate?
Weekly mowing is best during spring and summer; biweekly is fine during cooler months when grass grows slower.
What are the benefits of regular mowing and edging for my yard in San Diego?
Regular mowing promotes thicker growth, fewer weeds, and a clean, polished look for your property.
What time of day is best for mowing grass in Southern California?
Late morning (8–10 a.m.) is ideal — it’s cool enough for workers and gentle on the lawn.
How can I keep my lawn looking neat between professional visits?
Regular watering, picking up leaves, and light trimming around walkways helps extend that fresh-cut look.
How often should I water my lawn in San Diego?
Typically 2–3 times per week, depending on weather. Deep, infrequent watering encourages stronger roots.
What are the common lawn pests in San Diego?
Grubs, chinch bugs, and gophers are most common — we can help identify and treat them safely.
When is the best time to fertilize my lawn in San Diego?
Fertilize in spring and fall to promote healthy roots and green growth.
How do I prevent weeds in my San Diego lawn?
Keep your lawn thick and mowed regularly, and apply pre-emergent treatments in early spring.
What are the best types of grass for lawn care in San Diego?
Marathon fescue, Bermuda, and St. Augustine are popular, durable choices for local lawns.
Tree Trimming
Does Mueller Landscape offer stump grinding and tree removal services near me in San Diego?
Yes, we provide tree trimming, removals, and stump grinding throughout San Diego County for safety and aesthetics.
Can Mueller Landscape trim fruit trees and shape specialty trees like palms?
Absolutely! We trim fruit trees, palms, and ornamental species, keeping them healthy and looking beautiful.
What month is best to trim trees in San Diego so birds are not nesting?
The best time is typically October through January, before nesting season begins.
What is the “1/3 pruning rule,” and why is it important for healthy tree growth?
It means never removing more than one-third of a tree’s canopy at a time — this keeps it strong and prevents stress.
What’s the difference between tree trimming and tree pruning for San Diego homeowners?
Trimming shapes for appearance; pruning removes dead or diseased branches for health and safety.
What are the 3 C’s of pruning, and how do they apply to tree care in Southern California?
The 3 C’s stand for Clean, Cut, and Care — clean tools, proper cuts, and ongoing care for healthy trees.
What are the 5 rules of pruning trees to keep them healthy and safe?
Cut cleanly, avoid topping, prune at the branch collar, remove deadwood, and prune during dormancy when possible.
How often should trees be trimmed in San Diego’s climate?
Most trees need trimming every 1–3 years, depending on species and growth rate.
Do I need a permit to trim or remove large trees in San Diego?
In some areas, yes. Permits are required for certain protected species or large removals — we can help check local rules.
What’s the best time of year to trim palm trees in San Diego?
Late spring to early summer, when old fronds turn brown but before fruit or seed pods develop.
Lawn Weed Control Service
What types of weeds are most common in San Diego lawns, and how does Mueller Landscape handle them?
We commonly see crabgrass, spurge, and dandelion — all treated with targeted weed control and prevention plans.
Why should I hire Mueller Landscape instead of doing lawn weed control myself?
We use professional-grade treatments that are safe, effective, and applied correctly — saving you time and frustration.
Is it better to pull weeds or spray them when maintaining my San Diego lawn?
A combination works best — pull large weeds and treat small or spreading ones with selective herbicide.
Does vinegar and Dawn dish soap really kill weeds in San Diego lawns?
It may burn small weeds temporarily but doesn’t reach the roots. Professional weed control is more effective and long-lasting.
How can I prevent weeds from growing in my lawn year-round?
Regular mowing, fertilizing, and pre-emergent treatments are key to keeping your lawn weed-free.
What is the best time of year to apply lawn weed control treatments in San Diego?
Spring and fall are best for both prevention and spot treatments.
How often should I schedule professional weed control services with Mueller Landscape?
Every 6–8 weeks during the growing season keeps weeds under control.
Are Mueller Landscape’s weed control treatments safe for pets and the environment?
Yes! We use EPA-approved, pet-safe products when applied as directed.
Can Mueller Landscape combine weed control with mowing or fertilizing services?
Definitely — combining services saves time and improves overall lawn health.
Where can I find reliable lawn weed control services near me in San Diego?
Right here! Call Mueller Landscape Inc. at 619-514-2063 or visit MuellerLandscapeInc.com to book service.
Mulch Service
Can Mueller Landscape deliver and install mulch near me in San Diego?
Yes! We deliver and professionally install mulch throughout San Diego County.
Why should I hire Mueller Landscape instead of installing mulch myself?
We ensure even coverage, proper depth, and a clean finish — plus we haul away debris so you don’t have to lift a finger.
What type of mulch does Mueller Landscape use for San Diego landscaping projects?
We use premium wood chip, bark, and decorative mulches that enhance color and help retain soil moisture.
How much does it cost for Mueller Landscape to mulch my San Diego yard?
Mulching usually ranges from $250–$800, depending on area size and materials.
What is the 3-3-3 rule for mulch and how does it apply to San Diego gardens?
It means apply mulch 3 inches deep, 3 inches away from plant bases, and refresh every 3 months for best results.
What month is the best time to mulch in San Diego?
Spring and fall are ideal — before summer heat or winter rains.
How often should I replace or refresh mulch in my garden beds?
Every 6–12 months, depending on how quickly it breaks down.
Does mulch help with water conservation in San Diego’s dry climate?
Absolutely! Mulch reduces evaporation and keeps soil cooler and hydrated longer.
What color mulch looks best for San Diego gardens and homes?
Natural brown or redwood tones look great against local stucco and stone exteriors.
How much mulch do I need for my yard or flower beds in San Diego?
Generally, you’ll need 1 cubic yard per 100 sq ft at 3 inches deep — we can calculate that for you during an estimate.
Fertilizing Service
Can Mueller Landscape combine fertilizing with mowing or weed control services in San Diego?
Yes! We often combine fertilizing, mowing, and weed control in one visit to save time and help your lawn stay healthy, green, and strong.
Where can I find professional lawn fertilizing services near me in San Diego?
Right here at Mueller Landscape Inc. — we’ve been helping San Diego lawns thrive since 1982. Call 619-514-2063 or visit MuellerLandscapeInc.com to schedule.
How much does it cost to fertilize your lawn in San Diego?
Lawn fertilizing typically ranges from $75 to $200, depending on the size of your yard and fertilizer type. We’ll recommend the best option for your lawn’s condition and season.
What month do you start fertilizing your lawn in San Diego?
We usually begin in March or April, right before the main growing season, to give your grass the nutrients it needs for lush spring growth.
What is the 1/3 rule for lawns, and how does it affect fertilizing?
The 1/3 rule means never cutting off more than one-third of your grass blade at a time. It helps your lawn absorb fertilizer more effectively and reduces stress on the turf.
How often should I fertilize my lawn in San Diego’s climate?
For most lawns, three to four applications per year — in spring, summer, and fall — will keep grass healthy and vibrant year-round.
Does Mueller Landscape offer both organic and inorganic lawn fertilizers?
Yes! We offer organic, slow-release, and traditional fertilizer options, depending on your preferences and lawn goals.
What type of fertilizer works best for San Diego lawns and gardens?
Slow-release nitrogen fertilizers or blended organic formulas work best here because they feed the lawn evenly without burning in our warm climate.
Is it better to use organic fertilizer or chemical fertilizer for my San Diego lawn?
Both can work well — organic fertilizers improve soil health over time, while chemical ones provide faster green-up. We can recommend the best choice based on your soil and goals.
Why should I hire Mueller Landscape to fertilize my lawn instead of doing it myself?
We know the right timing, blend, and dosage for San Diego’s unique soils and climate. Our pros ensure even coverage without waste or damage.
Core Aeration Service
Why should I hire Mueller Landscape for core aeration instead of renting an aerator myself?
We handle everything — from setup to cleanup — and know how to aerate at the right depth for San Diego’s clay soils. You’ll get better results without the hassle of heavy equipment.
How much does core aeration cost in San Diego?
Core aeration typically costs $185–$350 for average-sized lawns, depending on accessibility and yard size. We’ll provide an exact quote before starting.
What is core aeration, and why is it important for lawns in San Diego?
Core aeration removes small plugs of soil to improve air, water, and nutrient flow to the roots. It’s essential for compacted San Diego soils to keep grass healthy and strong.
How often should I schedule core aeration for my lawn in San Diego?
Most lawns benefit from aeration once a year, though high-traffic or clay-heavy lawns may need it twice annually.
What time of year is best for aerating lawns in San Diego County?
Spring or early fall are the best times, when lawns are actively growing and can recover quickly.
How do I know if my San Diego yard needs aeration?
If your lawn feels hard, water puddles instead of soaking in, or grass looks thin despite watering, it’s time for aeration.
Does Mueller Landscape include fertilizer with its core aeration service?
Yes — we often recommend pairing aeration with a fertilizer or overseeding treatment for maximum results and deeper root growth.
Can core aeration help with compacted clay soil in San Diego?
Absolutely! Aeration relieves compaction, allowing roots to breathe and absorb nutrients more efficiently in our region’s heavy soils.
How long does it take for the plugs left by aeration to break down?
Typically 2–4 weeks, depending on watering and mowing. They naturally decompose and enrich the soil.
Where can I find reliable core aeration services near me in San Diego?
Right here — Mueller Landscape Inc. provides expert core aeration across San Diego County. Call 619-514-2063 or book online at MuellerLandscapeInc.com.
