Garden Installation in Oakland & the East Bay
Full-service garden installation, from soil prep to planting, garden beds, and sod installation for a lush new lawn.
Service Overview
Expert Garden Installation
Turning a design into reality requires precision, hard work, and an understanding of the local soil and climate. Our garden installation services cover everything from clearing the site and preparing the soil to planting, garden beds, and sod installation for a lush new lawn.
With 30+ years of landscaping experience and a local Oakland crew, we ensure every plant is given the best start. As a licensed contractor for the past decade, John Reppard oversees every installation to guarantee high-quality results that will flourish for years to come.
What's Included
- Site clearing and preparation
- Soil testing, grading, and amending
- Professional planting of trees, shrubs, and perennials
- Sod installation for a lush new lawn or seed options
- Mulching and finishing touches
Our Process
How We Work
Site Prep & Estimate
We evaluate the site, provide a free estimate, and schedule the clearing phase.
Soil & Grading
We prepare the foundation by amending the soil and ensuring proper drainage.
Planting & Installation
Our crew expertly installs all plants, lawns, and ground covers according to the plan.
Final Walkthrough
We review the completed installation with you and provide essential care instructions.
Homeowner Tips
Keeping Your New Garden Thriving
After installation, the first full year is critical. Here's how to protect your new plants through the East Bay's demanding summer and winter cycle.
Water deeply in the first dry season
Newly installed plants — even drought-tolerant ones — need consistent deep watering for the first 12 months while root systems establish. Water at the soil line early in the morning, 2–3 times per week through summer. Avoid shallow, frequent watering, which encourages surface roots that are vulnerable to heat.
Top up your mulch layer every spring
A 2–3 inch layer of mulch over your garden beds dramatically slows moisture loss in our clay-heavy soils. As it breaks down through the year, it also improves soil structure over time. Refresh it each March before the heat builds.
Check sod edges and keep new lawn moist
Freshly laid sod needs daily watering for the first 2–3 weeks until it knits to the soil. Keep foot traffic off it during this period. Once it's established, raise your mower height — cutting too short stresses grass in our dry summers and invites weeds.
Stay within EBMUD watering guidelines
EBMUD occasionally moves to Stage restrictions during dry years, limiting outdoor watering to specific days or hours. Setting up a smart controller at install (or soon after) lets you stay compliant and efficient without hand-managing your schedule every week.
If your garden needs a refresh or a bigger intervention after a rough season, that's what we're here for. Get a free estimate →
Why Choose Us
The Reppard's Difference
Licensed & Insured
CA Contractor License #1022906. We operate with full licensing and insurance for your peace of mind.
30+ Years Experience
Decades of hands-on landscaping experience navigating East Bay microclimates and soil conditions.
Local Oakland Crew
Our dedicated team is local to the area, ensuring reliable communication and consistent quality.
FAQ
Common Questions
Get Started
Request Your Free Estimate
Tell us about your garden installation project and we'll be in touch shortly.