What goes down first, topsoil or mulch?

<div><p>Topsoil should go down first. If the topsoil is next to your house, make sure the grade slopes away from the house to keep water from pooling against your foundation and possibly leaking into your basement or crawl space. Don’t cover your decorative landscape mulch with topsoil as that defeats the purpose of laying down the mulch. If you’re trying to create a certain <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-can-you-improve-plant-growth-start-improving-your-soil.htm">soil composition to improve plant growth</a>, you’ll likely want compost mixed into the topsoil instead of mulch. Over time, any decorative wood mulch will simply decompose under the topsoil. </p></div>

Does mulch attract termites?

<div><p>No, mulch itself does not necessarily attract termites even though it’s usually made of shredded wood. Some types of mulch like cedar or cypress <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/proactive-tips-avoid-termite-damage-your-home.htm">resist termites</a> because they’re toxic or unappetizing to the wood munchers. However, when the mulch is deep enough, say three inches or more, it creates a perfect habitat for insects of all kinds to build nests.</p></div>

Do you put anything under mulch?

<div><p>Although it’s not required to lay anything under mulch, it can help to put landscape fabric or plastic weed barrier down and <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/preparing-your-landscape-garden-mulch.htm">lay mulch</a> on top. The barrier helps keep weeds from growing up through your mulch. It also helps keep rodents and insects from burrowing into the ground underneath.</p></div>

Top 10 Best Mulch and topsoil pros in Escondido, CA

Gravel or Loose Fill Paving Install, Spread or Scrape

Verified Reviews for Mulch And Topsoil Service pros in Escondido, CA

*The Angi rating for Mulch And Topsoil Service companies in Escondido, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Mulch And Topsoil Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Mulch And Topsoil Service companies in Escondido, CA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Mulch And Topsoil Service needs.

Last update on August 10, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
Finally, after using three different companies, I talked to Luis at Brothers Landscape and they did not disappoint. I wish I found them 5 years ago and saved myself a lot of headache (and money from failed front yard landscape attempts). They weren't the cheapest (nor the most expensive), but...
Brothers Landscape
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Reviewed in March 2024
Luis is the best gardener and landscaper in THE WORLD. I have hired many people while owning and managing many properties throughout the last 20 years. Luis is the only one who never disappoints. He is extremely professional, timely, communicative, and just so dang excellent at his craft of lawn...
Brothers Landscape
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Reviewed in March 2024
Completely cleaned slope, put weed trap/layer down and mulched. Timely and professional. Already lining up more work for Hector-Dave’s Tree Service. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Davids Tree Service
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Reviewed in December 2023
Lupe worked quickly, had good suggestions regarding plants, and came in on budget. He is now maintaining the garden in perfect condition! I am very pleased with his work!
Guadalupe Ayala
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Reviewed in November 2023
Mr. Ayala always keeps our yard beautiful! He's been our gardener since 1991, and I wouldn't change a thing! He knows so much about all the aspects of tending to our yard. A great and honest man.
Guadalupe Ayala
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Reviewed in February 2014
Here's the headline; STUNNING, EXTRAORDINARY WORK!!! We contacted C & H after doing some general research online. We liked owner Kent Horner's website because it appeared that he was creative and although the picture gallery was limited, the work looked fabulous! We contacted Kent and he...
C & H Gardens Artistic Landscape & Tree Service
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Reviewed in May 2018
They did an excellent job. They were neat, knew what they were doing and were extremely efficient. Kent was very personable with us and we are so pleased with our new yard.
C & H Gardens Artistic Landscape & Tree Service
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Reviewed in October 2016
Kent and his crew did an excellent job for us. The quality of the workmanship is superb, the plantings look excellent and the construction of the pergola and patio are top notch. This is a very professional and nice crew to deal with. Their knowledge of construction and esthetics are...
C & H Gardens Artistic Landscape & Tree Service
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Reviewed in May 2017
Kent is amazing - he came to visit us several times prior to signing the contract, answered all of our questions, reworked various aspects to fit into our budget and 'held our hands' through the entire project. He has a gentle and positive spirit which made the stress of such a large project...
C & H Gardens Artistic Landscape & Tree Service
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Reviewed in July 2018
Kent and his team were AMAZING! My backyard was full of weeds, mounds of dirt, dead plants and just a GIANT, UGLY mess. Kent's crew came in and in about 4 days transformed my yard into an oasis! Now when I look out my windows, I see a beautiful yard and I'm no longer frowning everytime I look at...
C & H Gardens Artistic Landscape & Tree Service
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Mulch and topsoil pros in Escondido

Juan's Tree Service & Landscaping

Juan's Tree Service & Landscaping

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

193 local quotes requested

Juan Tree Service & Landscaping gives you the top-quality landscaping services that you deserve. For more information about our services and pricing please feel free to call us. We serve in Oceanside, CA, Camp Pendleton North CA; Solana Beach CA; Camp Pendleton South CA; Valley Center CA; Lake San Marcos CA; and the surrounding areas. Landscape Designer, Mulching, Garden Landscape Design, Garden Maintenance Service, Complete Landscaping Service Professional Landscaping Service, Reliable Landscaping Service, Affordable Landscaping Service, Quality Landscaping Service, Trusted Landscaping Service, Preferred Landscaping Company, Flawless Landscaping Services For more information visit our website: http://mailto:[email protected]/

"We were very pleased with Juan's Tree Service and Landscaping service. They performed professional and quality work for a great value."

Michelle J on May 2025

"We were very pleased with Juan's Tree Service and Landscaping service. They performed professional and quality work for a great value."

Michelle J on May 2025

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 90% of Angi customers

248 local quotes requested

Brothers Landscape is your landscaping for the San Diego area. Super Service Award Winners in 2014, 2015, and 2016! For faster service call 619 654-6887. We specialize in lawn installation, sprinklers installation, landscape maintenace, such as yard landscaping, garden landscaping, and many other residential landscaping services. Additional services: Seasonal maintenance, irrigation, soil rejuvenation & area preparation. sprinklers installation.

"Luis is prompt and professional and an excellent landscaper. He does extremely good work. His team is very kind and professional. I am so glad that I chose brothers to do all of my landscaping."

Charlene E on August 2025

"Luis is prompt and professional and an excellent landscaper. He does extremely good work. His team is very kind and professional. I am so glad that I chose brothers to do all of my landscaping."

Charlene E on August 2025

Humbee’s Landscape Services LLC

Humbee’s Landscape Services LLC

Customers say: Terrific value

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

402 local quotes requested

We specialize in all phases of lawn maintenance, routine mowing services, mulch spreading, yard clean ups, gutter cleaning and more. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service. Check out all the services we offer below and call -or- click to schedule a free estimate today!

"He is not working. I received a message saying that I would be refunded. I would like a refund of $850.ssage saying that I would be refunded. I would like a refund of $850."

Yuriko S on August 2025

"He is not working. I received a message saying that I would be refunded. I would like a refund of $850.ssage saying that I would be refunded. I would like a refund of $850."

Yuriko S on August 2025

Juan's Yard Maintenance

Juan's Yard Maintenance

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

18 local quotes requested

Juan Yard Maintenance, is your premier lawn care and handyman solutions proudly serving the Escondido, CA and surrounding area. With years of experience you will find that our service is 100% customer satisfaction. We are ready to work for you! Give us a call for your free estimate!

"Juab showed up on time. And the job was done efficiently in a timely manner. I will certainly not hesitate to call on him for other projects or recommend him."

Alicia H on May 2024

"Juab showed up on time. And the job was done efficiently in a timely manner. I will certainly not hesitate to call on him for other projects or recommend him."

Alicia H on May 2024

Alex & Miguel Landscaping & Tree Service

Alex & Miguel Landscaping & Tree Service

35 local quotes requested

10 years of experience

Alex & Miguel Landscaping & Tree Service is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers interests and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"Excellent service, did a spring clean up and yard looks wonderful! Will use again!!!"

Robert C on June 2025

"Excellent service, did a spring clean up and yard looks wonderful! Will use again!!!"

Robert C on June 2025

Prosper Construction Development, Inc.

180 Steuart St., Box 194631

Prosper Construction Development, Inc.

180 Steuart St., Box 194631

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 97% of Angi customers

248 local quotes requested

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity, and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a variety of services that are customizable to each individual project. You will find us to be competitively priced, paying close attention to the details of each and every project that we are involved with. We look forward to building lasting relationships, and guarantee your satisfaction!

"Fast response and clear communication throughout the process."

Marco T on April 2025

"Fast response and clear communication throughout the process."

Marco T on April 2025

Angel's Landcaping Services

400 Greenfield Drive Unit 151

Angel's Landcaping Services

400 Greenfield Drive Unit 151

31 local quotes requested

5 years of experience

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"Great service from Andy at Angel’s Landscaping Service. He called me right away after I sent the request online and he was able to fix my lawn sprinklers the next morning. I will definitely call them again next time. A+++"

Irma G on August 2025

RSF Construction Inc.

6910 Monte Verde Drive

New on AngiNew on Angi•

Approved Pro

RSF Construction Inc.

6910 Monte Verde Drive

New on AngiNew on Angi•

Approved Pro

279 local quotes requested

6 years of experience

RSF Construction Inc. is a leader in providing our customers with the highest quality service in an honest, efficient, and professional way. Our pledge is to create successful relationships with our customers, employees and community by building trust, treating every project with the utmost integrity and exceeding expectations. We look forward to working with you!

Ledesma's Hauling and Landscaping

Located In:

5.00(

)

Ledesma's Hauling and Landscaping

Located In:

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Services Offered Verified by Business Appliance disposal Construction debris disposal Furniture disposal Driveway construction or installation Interior wall construction Patio, porch, or terrace construction … Interior demolition Irrigation repair or maintenance Landscape construction or installation Landscape maintenance Greenscape construction Landscaping waste disposal Construction or installation Partial structure demolition Shrub care Insect management - shrubs Shrub pruning or trimming Shrub transplanting Storm debris disposal Trash disposal Tree planting Tree removal Christmas tree disposal Exterior surface and wall demolition Gardening Exterior wall construction Retaining walls Walkway construction or installation Irrigation construction Junk pickup Landscape design Landscaping building construction Greenscape design Lawn care Mattress disposal Recycling disposal Disease management - shrubs Shrub planting Shrub removal Soil disposal Total structure demolition Tree care services Tree pruning or trimming Tree stump removal

"They got here within an hour of me calling, were so kind and quick. I would definitely recommend and hire again! They made the process so smooth and fast."

Colle H on June 2025

"They got here within an hour of me calling, were so kind and quick. I would definitely recommend and hire again! They made the process so smooth and fast."

Colle H on June 2025

2 years of experience

"Hi there, I'm Master A.I from Slope Masters Mowing. We're a professional landscaping company that specializes in weed abatement services. We're excited to offer our services to you today." Partnered with Raymo San Diego, we are privileged to use their latest equipment, the Raymo Torpedo Slope Mower, which allows us to provide a one-of-a-kind next-generation landscaping treatment for our clients. Our mower is super quiet, so it won't disturb you or your neighbors during those quiet times or early mornings. It's also remotely controlled, so our operators can work safely at distance even on the steepest slopes." "Our weed abatement services offer a number of benefits, including: * Improved curb appeal * Reduced fire hazard * Fewer pests and rodents * Healthier environment" "If you're looking for a professional and affordable weed abatement solution, look no further than Slope Masters Mowing. We offer a free consultation and estimate, so you can see for yourself how we can help you improve your property. Give us a call today at 619.653.0027 or 760.688.5796 to learn more." "Thank you for your time. We look forward to hearing from you soon."

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FAQs for mulch and topsoil service projects in Escondido, CA

Topsoil costs from $12 to $55 per cubic yard, depending on the type you choose. For example, screened black dirt will cost about $15 per cubic yard. Loam (soil composed of sand, silt, and clay) costs about $17 per cubic yard. Standard screened topsoil costs about $20 per cubic yard. The type of topsoil you need depends on your landscaping plans.

Mulch costs anywhere from $30 to $150 per cubic yard, depending on the type you choose. On the inexpensive end, red and black mulch are about $35 to $40 per cubic yard, and are typically made from recycled waste wood like shredded old pallets or deck material. Cedar, cypress, and rubber mulch cost anywhere from $100 to $120 per cubic yard. A pro can help you determine the type of mulch most suitable for your landscaping needs.

Topsoil should go down first. If the topsoil is next to your house, make sure the grade slopes away from the house to keep water from pooling against your foundation and possibly leaking into your basement or crawl space. Don’t cover your decorative landscape mulch with topsoil as that defeats the purpose of laying down the mulch. If you’re trying to create a certain soil composition to improve plant growth, you’ll likely want compost mixed into the topsoil instead of mulch. Over time, any decorative wood mulch will simply decompose under the topsoil.

No, mulch itself does not necessarily attract termites even though it’s usually made of shredded wood. Some types of mulch like cedar or cypress resist termites because they’re toxic or unappetizing to the wood munchers. However, when the mulch is deep enough, say three inches or more, it creates a perfect habitat for insects of all kinds to build nests.

Although it’s not required to lay anything under mulch, it can help to put landscape fabric or plastic weed barrier down and lay mulch on top. The barrier helps keep weeds from growing up through your mulch. It also helps keep rodents and insects from burrowing into the ground underneath.