Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Landscaping Partner in Santa Barbara
I am Bruce Koehler, founder of Down To Earth Landscapes, with 40 years of experience in landscape design and contracting. Our company, established in 1970, reflects a lifelong passion for creating harmonious outdoor spaces. My family's deep roots in Santa Barbara County, spanning generations of local entrepreneurs and electrical pioneers, have shaped my commitment to community investment. Holding degrees in Landscape Horticulture and Architecture, along with viticulture certification from Washington State University, I bring technical expertise to every project. Our team combines creativity with ecological stewardship, prioritizing sustainable practices that enhance both aesthetics and environmental health.We specialize in landscape construction, maintenance, and vineyard management, serving residential and commercial clients across California's Central Coast. Our reputation is built on clear communication, problem-solving expertise, and a dedication to transforming outdoor spaces into functional works of art. With an A+ BBB rating and features in Sunset magazine, we maintain industry leadership through consistent quality and client-focused service.
Services
Landscape Design
Installation
Maintenance
Vineyard Management
Irrigation Systems
Hardscapes
Pruning Services
Seasonal Color Design
Agricultural Installations
Outdoor Fire Features
Details
- Year established: 1970
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in landscape design and installation
- Our team holds advanced degrees in landscape architecture and horticulture
- We implement eco-friendly practices using local materials and native plants
- Our landscapes have been featured in Sunset magazine and won Santa Barbara Beautiful awards
- We maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
What people say
Professional and knowledgeable
Completed under budget
Creative design solutions
Exceptional craftsmanship
Timely completion
Services
Landscape Design
We create custom outdoor spaces combining aesthetics with functionality. Our certified designers develop plans for residential and commercial properties, incorporating plant selection, hardscapes, and water features. With 40+ years of experience, we ensure each design complements the natural environment while meeting client needs.
Installation
Our team executes designs with precision, handling all construction phases. Services include grading, drainage systems, irrigation, and structural elements like retaining walls. We maintain quality control throughout the process, ensuring timely completion of durable, visually appealing landscapes that meet all specifications.
Vineyard Management
We provide comprehensive vineyard care from planting to harvest. Our certified viticulturists manage fertilization, pruning, and disease control. With specialized training from Washington State University, we offer expert guidance on vineyard design and wine production for residential and commercial clients.
Maintenance
Our maintenance programs preserve landscape beauty year-round. Services include pruning, irrigation management, and seasonal color changes. Certified technicians handle turf care, weed control, and tree maintenance up to 15 feet, ensuring healthy plant growth and optimal system performance.
Hardscapes
We construct durable outdoor structures including walkways, fire pits, and retaining walls. Using quality materials, our craftsmen create functional elements that enhance property value. Services incorporate drainage solutions and integrate seamlessly with surrounding vegetation for lasting beauty.
People
Bruce Koehler
Owner/Operator
With 40 years of experience, Bruce holds degrees in Landscape Horticulture and Architecture. Certified in viticulture from Washington State University, he specializes in irrigation systems and landscape construction. His family's Santa Barbara roots inform his community-focused approach to design.
Mark Koehler
Maintenance Division Supervisor
Bruce's identical twin brings 13 years of Monterey County experience. Certified as a Landscape Technician and Master Gardener, he managed luxury properties like Quail Lodge. His expertise includes client communication and estate maintenance with ecological sensitivity.
Rufino Perez
Construction Division Supervisor
With 23 years of service, Rufino is our field expert in carpentry, plumbing, and masonry. Known for his craftsmanship and client rapport, he ensures quality execution of complex landscape elements while maintaining our commitment to timely project completion.
Questions
What landscaping services do you offer?
We provide full-service landscape design, installation, and maintenance. This includes hardscapes, irrigation systems, vineyard management, and seasonal color changes for residential and commercial properties.
Do you serve areas outside Santa Barbara?
While based in Santa Barbara, we serve the entire Central Coast of California. Our team handles projects from initial design through maintenance across this region.
How experienced is your team?
Our owner has 40+ years of experience with degrees in landscape architecture. Our supervisors hold certifications in viticulture and landscape technology, with team members averaging decades of service.
Are you committed to eco-friendly practices?
Yes, we prioritize local materials and native plants that thrive in California's climate. Our designs work with natural landscapes to create sustainable, low-maintenance outdoor environments.
What industry recognition have you received?
We've won the Santa Barbara Beautiful award and maintain an A+ BBB rating. Our work has been featured in Sunset magazine and local publications for design excellence.
