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This Franklin Lakes backyard had a an existing pond and pool that needed renovations. We re-imagined the entire backyard, adding multiple patio spaces, a pergola, outdoor kitchen, new walkways and the “floating” patio featured here. Now our clients enjoy sitting at their new fire table that feels intimately connected to their pond. This project was also honored with the award of excellence from the NJLCA.
Seasonal Tips for Late Winter & Early Spring
Smart winter care now sets the stage for a stronger spring.
1. Gently Remove Heavy Snow from Shrubs
After snowfall, carefully brush heavy, wet snow off shrubs and evergreens to prevent broken branches and long-term structural damage. Always sweep upward with a broom—never shake frozen branches, which can snap easily.
2. Feed Shrubs Early for a Strong Start
Applying a balanced shrub fertilizer in early spring gives plants the nutrients they need as they wake from dormancy. Early feeding supports root development, healthy foliage, and stronger flowering later in the season.
3. Plan Ahead — Winter Is for Design
Late winter is the ideal time to plan landscape improvements. Thoughtful design ensures proper plant placement, long-term structure, and year-round interest. A well-designed landscape avoids future problems and maximizes the beauty of every season.
4. Prune Strategically, Not Aggressively
Continue removing dead or damaged wood, but avoid heavy shaping until spring growth begins. Smart pruning now helps plants focus energy where it matters most when the growing season starts.
CLC EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH
Shannon Savage
Landscape Designer
Shannon is a graduate of Rutgers University with a degree in Landscape Architecture and has done over 15 years of field work. As a landscape designer, Shannon is a creative force who brings her unique vision to every project. Her excellent plant familiarity and talent to customize plant palettes makes her an essential member of our team.
She hand-selects all plant materials to assure quality and to be certain that the plants fit perfectly into the overall design. Her passion for coordinating the character and style of a given project brings out a distinctive design style that best suits the taste and aesthetics of our clients.
Daniel Burd
Landscape Designer
Daniel is a graduate of Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture, he also holds an associate degree in Engineering Technology, giving him a unique blend of design sensibility and engineering know‐how in the field.
As a landscape designer, Daniel brings proficiency in computer‐aided design to develop detailed, buildable plans that enhance both aesthetics and function. His experience in installation and contracting work helps him create drawings that are practical in the field, and his enthusiasm for horticulture and landscape design supports thoughtful, site‐specific solutions tailored to client needs.
Featured Plant of the day
Southern Magnolia —
Magnolia grandiflora
A classic year-round statement tree, Southern Magnolia is known for its large, glossy evergreen leaves and iconic creamy white, fragrant blooms in late spring and early summer. Its rich foliage provides structure and privacy through every season, making it a standout even in winter.
Low-maintenance once established and deer-resistant, Southern Magnolia thrives in full sun to partial shade and works beautifully as a specimen tree or evergreen anchor in New Jersey landscapes—timeless, elegant, and enduring.
CLC: WHO WE ARE
CLC Landscape Design, founded in 1973, has been a leader in design/build landscaping by blending classic design concepts with cutting-edge design ideas. With a vast knowledge of landscape design concepts and material options, we tailor each of our landscapes to meet the unique style of each of our clients. With every client being different, we work with everyone to understand their wishes and bring them to life through our internal team, creating 2D and 3D renderings! We love what we do and we enjoy sharing creative solutions for any of your landscape challenges. We promise you some exciting design ideas!
“Great Landscapes Begin
with Great Design Ideas.”
(973) 839-6026
CLCDESIGN.COM
58 Ringwood Ave. Ringwood, NJ 07456 USA
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