Question
Live in Poway. Interested to hiring someone to do our front yard.  We would consider small fountain, drought tolerant plants, stones and succulent, etc. Do you have any suggestions.

Answer
Hey, Amy.

I used to have a big list because they were my competitors but I haven't done that type of work in many years now, and it seems that all the people I would have recommended have either retired or gone out of business. So here's what I would suggest: Over on Scripps Poway Parkway at Community Drive is Walter Andersen's Nursery. Stop in there and see if they have an advertising kiosk or have any recommendations. Also check out angieslist.com, doneright.com, and the Better Business Bureau to see what companies are members.

The one thing you definitely want to do is get at least three quotes for the work. You might find that they are vastly different. Also, if someone mistreats you, either over the phone or in person, while you're getting quotes, just scratch them off your list because that's exactly the same type of service you'll get if you hire them.

Hope that helps.

Russel