Question 1

Will de-icer harm my plants and pavers?

Accepted Answer

Standard rock salt (sodium chloride) and calcium chloride are tough on both plants and hardscapes. They dry out roots, build up salts in the soil, and can burn foliage, especially on young or shallow-rooted plants. On pavers, salts speed up pitting, cracking, and discoloration, particularly during Utah’s freeze–thaw cycles. Over several winters, damage compounds. Safer [&hellip;]

Question 2

Do I need to shovel snow off my plants?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no. Snow acts as a natural insulator in Utah’s winters, protecting plant roots and helping soil retain moisture. For established plants, this blanket is more benefit than risk. The exception is heavy, wet snow on evergreens or newly planted shrubs. Accumulated weight can bend or break branches. In those cases, use a [&hellip;]

Question 3

Is it normal for evergreens to turn brown after planting?

Accepted Answer

Some browning is normal, but the extent matters. Inner needles on pines and spruces often shed naturally in fall, turning brown before dropping. Transplant shock in the first year can also cause minor browning while roots establish. What isn’t normal is widespread browning at the tips or entire branches failing. In Utah, common causes include [&hellip;]

Question 4

Should I water my landscaping in winter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in many cases. Even when dormant, trees and shrubs still need moisture to survive Utah’s dry winters. If snowfall is light or absent, plan to water deeply once a month on days when temperatures are above 40°F and the ground isn’t frozen. Focus on new plantings and evergreens, since they are most vulnerable to [&hellip;]

Question 5

Did I create a money pit with my landscaping project?

Accepted Answer

A properly designed landscape should enhance property value, not drain your wallet. In Utah, well-planned projects can add 10–20% to home value while also improving livability. If yours feels like a money pit, the problem often lies in design or installation. High-maintenance plants may need constant water and pruning, driving up costs. Poorly built irrigation [&hellip;]

Frequently Asked Questions

Will de-icer harm my plants and pavers?

Do I need to shovel snow off my plants?

Is it normal for evergreens to turn brown after planting?

Should I water my landscaping in winter?

Did I create a money pit with my landscaping project?

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