Winter storms in the Lake Norman area often bring a mix of snow, ice, and rapid freeze–thaw cycles. While it’s natural to want to “fix” plants weighed down by winter weather, the wrong response can cause more damage than the storm itself. Knowing when to act—and when to leave plants alone—makes all the difference. Snow…

Thoughtful landscape lighting improves safety, curb appeal, and nighttime use. Designed by Chris Johnson and engineered for long-term reliability.

Winter Care for Woody Landscape Plants (USDA Zone 8a) This guide applies to landscapes installed by Chris Johnson Landscapes (CJL) and reflects real-world plant performance in the Lake Norman area, which falls within USDA Zone 8a. While winters here are generally mild, periodic deep freezes (especially multi-night events with temperatures in the teens) can raise concerns for homeowners. Key…

Pruning trees is an essential part of maintaining a healthy and aesthetically pleasing landscape, but some trees release significant amounts of sap when cut. This phenomenon, commonly referred to as “bleeding,” can be alarming. However, in most cases, excessive sap flow does not harm the tree. Why Do Some Trees Bleed Excessively? Certain tree species…

Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and beauty of your plants, but timing is crucial. While you can remove a few wild growths any time of the year, fall is generally not the best season for pruning, especially for hard pruning. Here’s why: 1. Stimulates New Growth at the Wrong Time – Pruning encourages…