Even though the temperatures have been rather chilly coupled with last week-end's ice storm and this week-end's predicted snow storm, that doesn't mean landscaping in Lochmere has stopped!

Rejuvenation Pruning Projects:

With winter here, and spring around the corner, you’ll start to see Ruppert working on rejuvenation pruning projects, especially along Loch Highlands Drive and near the Highlands Rec Club. Many of our shrubs have been around for a while and have overgrown their spaces, shading out their lower halves.

‘Renewal pruning’ will give us the best chance to capitalize on the significant root systems these shrubs have developed, while reining in their size and ultimately obtaining a rejuvenated shape.

See “Renewal Pruning of Shrubs” from the NC Cooperative Extension for more information about this restorative practice. Please allow these plants time to fill back in!

Mulching:

Mulching of eroded and exposed soil, with natural hardwood mulch, will continue this winter throughout Lochmere. Targeting areas where clay, rock and roots are exposed along curbs and in medians, this effort is intended to enhance water retention abilities, limit further erosion, and increase the appearance of many spots along our main roads. Once organic matter has been increased in these locations, we will have the ability to more successfully consider new plantings, seeding with grass, or leaving the spaces in a natural state.

(Before & After Mulched Leaves At Boat Ramp)

If you have HOA owned areas near you that you feel could benefit from a mulch top dressing, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

English Ivy:

As noted in our December ‘25 newsletter, English Ivy is considered an invasive plant. English Ivy has invaded many trees along our HOA trails and walkways.  If you live adjacent to any of these areas, please consider helping us save these beautiful trees.  Using hand shears, cut a section of each ivy vine at the base of the tree up the trunk at least 3-5 feet.  This will kill the vine and you should see it die all the way to the top of the growth, saving the tree. 

Please make sure any potted ivy is not spreading to nearby shrubs or trees, or property that belongs to the HOA.  If you have questions about this technique or where to start, check out this information from the NC Native Plant Society, or email us This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..