LET'S TALK ABOUT YOUR GARDEN.

We visit your property for 60 minutes. We assess sunlight hours by area (using compass and time-of-day observation), soil drainage rate, existing vegetation, and how your household wants to use outdoor space. We discuss your food preferences, time budget, and goals. You receive a written assessment summary and initial design direction within three business days.

Site assessments are typically available within 1–2 weeks of contact. Design projects follow assessment with a 4–6 week design phase. Installation scheduling depends on season — fall is our busiest period and books 6–8 weeks in advance. If you have a specific timeline, tell us early and we'll work with it.

Absolutely. Many of our clients have existing beds or garden areas that aren't performing as hoped. We assess the existing setup, diagnose what's limiting productivity (often soil quality, irrigation, or plant selection), and redesign or supplement as needed. We never recommend replacing what's working or unnecessarily starting over.

Yes — container and patio garden design is a DEW GARDENS specialty. We've designed highly productive balcony and patio gardens for East San Diego apartments and high-rises. We can also design gardens for renters with portable raised beds that can move with you. We recommend discussing any garden plans with your landlord before engagement.