Terra Nova Ecological Landscaping: Licensed Landscaping Serving Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
What the Company Handles
- Lawn care
- Landscaping building construction
- Interior wall construction
- Exterior wall construction
- Walkway construction or installation
- Greenscape design
- Shrub care
About the Company
Terra Nova Ecological Landscaping is a Santa Cruz-based company founded in 1988 by local resident Ken Foster, who brings deep roots in the community and expertise from his apprenticeship at UCSC's Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems. Alongside partner Jillian Steinberger, a former Oakland garden artisan, Terra Nova specializes in sustainable design, installation, and maintenance services that emphasize water conservation, native plants, and permaculture principles. Known for innovative approaches like their maintenance-by-bicycle service and involvement in the Monterey Bay Friendly Landscaping program, they focus on creating vibrant, healthy landscapes for both public and private properties while minimizing environmental impact. The company has been recognized as 'Best Landscaper' by Good Times Santa Cruz readers, reflecting their commitment to ecological practices and community engagement.
Q&A
How does Terra Nova address common Santa Cruz landscaping issues like rock garden shifting and soil compaction?
For Santa Cruz residents dealing with rock garden shifting or soil compaction, Terra Nova uses ecological techniques tailored to our local conditions. We assess soil health and drainage patterns, then implement solutions like strategic regrading, incorporating organic amendments to improve soil structure, and installing proper retaining walls or drainage systems. Our focus on native plants and permaculture principles helps create stable, low-maintenance landscapes that withstand Santa Cruz's unique coastal environment while promoting long-term soil vitality.
What sustainable irrigation services do you offer for Santa Cruz gardens?
We provide comprehensive ecological irrigation services including design, installation, repair, and maintenance, all focused on water conservation—a priority in Santa Cruz. Our approach includes designing efficient drip systems, using weather-based controllers, and selecting drought-tolerant native plants. We're involved in the Monterey Bay Friendly Landscaping program, ensuring our methods align with local water management goals. For existing systems, we offer maintenance to prevent leaks and optimize water use, helping residents save resources while keeping landscapes healthy.
Can you handle both landscape design and construction for projects like patios or retaining walls?
Yes, Terra Nova offers full-service ecological design and construction, including patios, terraces, retaining walls, and walkways. Founded by Ken Foster with expertise from UCSC's agroecology program, we integrate sustainable materials and practices into every project. Our process begins with a design that considers your site's ecology, then we handle installation using methods that minimize environmental impact. Whether it's a new patio or a retaining wall to manage slopes, we ensure durable, beautiful results that harmonize with Santa Cruz's natural surroundings.
























