What does "Mu" mean?
"Mu" is a Japanese word which literally means “nothing” or “emptiness.” The concept of mu is very important in Asian cultures and spiritual studies. It is at the core of Zen teachings, for example. Masanobu Fukuoka refers to his way of farming as “Mu Agriculture,” mainly referring to the state of mind the farmer should have while he is working in the fields. When Larry Korn started the company in 1985, he needed a name and a logo. So, out of respect to Mr. Fukuoka and his spiritual understanding, he named the company Mu Landscaping and used the Mu character from the title page of his book, The One-Straw Revolution, as the logo.
What is your approach to design?
Landscape designers are basically of two types. Some have a distinctive style and create gardens of that style regardless of the setting. The others tailor their design to the needs and wishes of the home owner. Mu Landscaping is clearly of the latter type. We listen to your wishes and create a design that reflects your individual needs and personality. The most important question the home owner needs to consider is “How do I want to use the yard?”
How do I get started with Mu Landscaping?
Give us a call or send us an e-mail. We will discuss your landscaping needs and arrange a convenient time for us to get together at your home. If it seems that we have a good fit, I will prepare a complete estimate listing the features in detail and the cost. There is no charge for this estimate. You can find a Sample Estimate on this web site.
How about yard maintenance?
The yard should be designed with maintenance in mind. Some people like to spend a lot of time in their yard. Many home owners, especially those who have kids, are too busy to maintain their own yard. For those clients, a low-maintenance yard is a good idea. “Low” maintenance does not mean “no” maintenance, however. If the plantings are connected to an automatic irrigation system, the main work is keeping ahead of weeds and trimming the trees, shrubs and perennials a few times a year. We offer maintenance services to a limited number of clients. These yards are mainly ones we have installed ourselves.
How is your crew supervised while they are working on one of your projects?
Larry and the project supervisor, Mario Gamino, are on the job every day supervising the crew and making sure the job is done carefully and in a professional manner. We prefer to take on only one job at a time so we can give our clients undivided attention. We are prompt, hard working and we keep the job site neat and orderly.
Do you use subcontractors?
For the most part we do not use sub-contractors. However, if a bobcat is needed we will bring in a bobcat operator. We use a specialist to do the finishing on concrete work. We sometimes use outside hauling.
What about the payment schedule?
Payment terms vary with the size and nature of the project. Usually there is an initial payment with progress payments along the way. The final payment is due when the work is completed. Payment schedules can be tailored to meet the needs of the client.
What about warranties?
Plantings are guaranteed to grow out normally and thrive for a period of three months. After three months,Mu owner Larry Korn will revisit the site and replace any plants which have not successfully survived transplanting at no charge. Irrigation work is guaranteed for one year against problems caused by faulty parts or workmanship. This does not apply to problems caused by animals, other people or factors which are beyond the contractor’s control.
Have more questions?
Please ask! Contact the owner of Mu Landscaping, Larry Korn, via email at larrykorn@mulandscaping.com or call Larry at (510) 547-4996.