Author: The Greenery, Inc.

When freezing weather is in the forecast, preparation is everything. A hard freeze can cause costly damage and serious risk if you’re caught off guard. At The Greenery, we encourage homeowners to remember the Three Ps of Freeze Protection: Pets, Pipes, and Plants. Taking a few simple precautions now can prevent major problems later and help protect what matters most.

The Three Ps: Pets, Pipes, and Plants

Pets: Keep Them Warm and Safe
Cold temperatures are dangerous for pets, especially those who spend time outdoors. If possible, bring pets inside during freezing weather. If they must remain outdoors, ensure they have a dry, insulated shelter that blocks wind and retains warmth. Add extra bedding such as straw or blankets, and make sure water bowls are checked frequently so they don’t freeze over. Remember: if it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.

Pipes: Prevent Freezing and Bursting
Frozen pipes are one of the most common and expensive cold-weather issues. Exposed pipes are especially vulnerable. Insulate exposed pipes with foam covers or wrap, and disconnect garden hoses from outdoor spigots. During extreme cold snaps, allowing faucets to drip slightly can help prevent pressure buildup and freezing. Opening cabinet doors under sinks can also allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing. A little protection goes a long way toward avoiding burst pipes and water damage.

Plants: Protect Your Landscape Investment
Freezing temperatures can stress or kill sensitive plants, especially container plantings and new installations. Bring potted plants indoors whenever possible. If they are too large or heavy to move, group them close to your home where they benefit from retained heat and wind protection. Water the roots ahead of a freeze because moist soil holds heat better than dry soil. Cover vulnerable plants with frost cloth or breathable fabric, such as a sheet, to trap warmth while still allowing airflow. Avoid using plastic directly on foliage, as it can cause additional damage.

Creative Freeze Protection: Chinese Fan Palm Project

At The Greenery, plant protection sometimes requires custom solutions, especially when a project is tied to an important milestone. Recently, our Beaufort Enhancement Team was asked to help safeguard newly installed Chinese Fan Palms at a longtime client’s residence. The palms were planted as part of the landscape design for an upcoming spring wedding, making their protection especially important.

With freezing temperatures and frost in the forecast, the team developed an out-of-the-box solution using large tote bags to fully shield the palms from cold and frost exposure. This creative approach provided insulation and wind protection tailored to the size and structure of the trees.

When a client invests in something special, we rise to the challenge. We take pride in solving problems creatively and doing whatever it takes to protect our clients’ landscapes and visions.

A little preparation now can prevent big problems later. If you need help protecting your plants or planning cold-weather landscape care, The Greenery team is ready to help. Stay warm and stay prepared.

The Greenery, Inc. is excited to share important leadership news as we continue growing and strengthening our presence across the Southeast. Darren Davis has been appointed Branch Manager of our Savannah operations, bringing with him more than 17 years of landscape industry experience and a people-first approach that aligns perfectly with our company values.

Darren’s journey with The Greenery is a true example of growth through dedication and hands-on experience. He began his career in the field as a crew member and steadily advanced through roles of increasing responsibility. Over the years, he has managed major properties, including Sea Pines, and led full-service branches on Hilton Head Island. His path reflects technical expertise in commercial landscaping and a deep understanding of team operations at every level.

Throughout his career, Darren has contributed far beyond day-to-day management. He has helped develop employee training programs, improve production workflows, and mentor up-and-coming leaders within the organization. He has also played an important role in incorporating Lean Six Sigma principles into branch operations, which focus on efficiency and consistency, as well as continuous improvement. These process-driven strategies help ensure that clients receive reliable, high-quality landscape services while teams have clear systems and support behind their work.

According to The Greenery, Inc. President and CEO Lee Edwards, Darren’s background makes him uniquely qualified for this role. His ability to combine operational discipline with strong team leadership positions the Savannah branch for continued success and expansion. With hands-on and leadership experience across multiple levels of operations, Darren understands how each layer of the organization connects and how to align people and processes to deliver outstanding results.

What further distinguishes Darren’s leadership style is his longstanding commitment to serving others. With 46 years in ministry, he brings a servant-leader mindset to his work, with a strong focus on guiding others and building growth in those he leads. He is known for his deep commitment to people and for fostering an environment where team members feel supported while being encouraged to grow. That approach strengthens internal teams and the relationships we build with clients and communities.

Outside of work, Darren enjoys reading, golfing, and woodworking, interests that reflect his thoughtful, steady approach and appreciation for craftsmanship and continuous learning.

With Darren Davis leading our Savannah operations, The Greenery, Inc. is well positioned to strengthen performance and broaden its impact across the region. Our clients can expect a consistently high level of care and professional landscape management, supported by experienced leadership and reliable operational systems. 

Founded on Hilton Head Island in 1973 with just six employees, The Greenery, Inc. has grown into a leading commercial landscaping company with more than 800 team members across the Southeast. We provide comprehensive services including landscape installation, maintenance, irrigation, hardscapes, and construction. To learn more about our Savannah operations, call (912) 450-3000 or visit thegreeneryinc.com.

Each holiday season, communities across the Lowcountry begin to sparkle a little brighter, and much of that magic comes from the dedicated crews at The Greenery. From grand entrances and commercial properties to neighborhood gathering spaces and community offices, our teams work behind the scenes to transform everyday landscapes into festive holiday showcases. Christmas décor is more than lights and garland; it’s about creating a welcoming atmosphere that brings people together and sets the tone for celebration.

Decorating for the holidays on a community-wide scale takes planning and coordination. Our crews begin preparations well in advance by inspecting sites and mapping out lighting designs, as well as selecting décor elements that complement each property’s architecture and landscape features. The goal is always the same: cohesive and high-impact displays that feel both elegant and joyful. From illuminated trees and wreath-lined entrances to beautifully wrapped columns and glowing pathways, every installation is designed to stand out, day and night.

One of the most visible transformations happens at community entrances. These high-traffic focal points are layered with lights and bows, and the most beautiful greenery to create a warm and welcoming first impression. Clubhouses and offices receive the same level of attention, with customized décor schemes that reflect each community’s character. Our winter landscape refresh services also play an important role, ensuring plant beds and containers look clean and well-maintained throughout the season.

A special highlight this season is the work completed at the Fripp Island POA main office. We want to recognize Larry Kaczowka and Deevy Smalls for their outstanding help decorating the Fripp Island POA main office for Christmas. Both gentlemen consistently go above and beyond, assisting not only with landscaping but with a wide range of needs whenever called upon. Their effort and attention to detail helped create a warm, festive environment that residents and visitors can enjoy throughout the holiday season.

Across all the properties we serve, the pace has been nonstop, and the results speak for themselves. Our teams are busy making communities shine bright for the season! From decorating entrances to refreshing winter landscapes, The Greenery, Inc. crews are hard at work bringing holiday cheer to the properties we proudly serve. We’re thankful for our dedicated team members and the joy they help create! Holiday installations often happen on tight timelines and in changing weather conditions, yet our crews consistently deliver polished, professional results.

At The Greenery, holiday decorating is an extension of our year-round commitment to beautifying and caring for the communities we serve. It’s one more way we help create spaces where people feel proud to be. As you drive through town and enjoy the lights and seasonal displays, know that a skilled and dedicated team made it possible, and we’re honored to be part of your holiday season year after year.

At The Greenery, Inc., we believe landscaping is about more than just creating beautiful spaces – it’s about cultivating strong, vibrant communities. Our commitment to people is reflected not only in the work we do every day but also in the ways we give back to the neighborhoods, schools, and organizations that make the Lowcountry and beyond so special.

Our teams have been honored to support a wide variety of events and initiatives across all the regions we serve.

Supporting Local Traditions & Events
From ensuring the grounds were festival-ready for the Annual Beaufort Water Festival to providing fresh florals for the Hilton Head International Piano Competition, our crews proudly help set the stage for the community events that bring people together. In addition, for over 50 years we have partnered with the Heritage Golf Tournament on Hilton Head – one of the biggest PGA events of the season. 

Giving Back Through Service
Service has always been at the heart of our mission. This year, our Beaufort Enhancement team completed a full landscape installation for the Lowcountry Food Bank in Yemassee, enhancing their space so they can better serve neighbors in need. 

Investing in future generations is equally important to us. This year, our Savannah branch partnered with Xcel Strategies Inc. Summer Camp, where we introduced students to the possibilities of a career in the green industry — from autonomous mowers to sustainable landscaping technologies. We were thrilled to inspire the next generation of landscape leaders!

Promoting Wellness & Education
Our teams were proud to sponsor and participate in the Omni Firecracker 5K on Amelia Island, raising funds for YMCA community programs, and the Run Wild 5K in Yulee, FL, which benefited the Boys & Girls Club of Nassau County. 

We also supported Volunteers in Medicine Hilton Head Island through the 31st Annual William P. Stevens Jr. Golf Outing, which raised nearly $80,000 to provide free medical care for underserved families. We also joined the ALS Amelia Island Golf Classic, standing alongside others in the fight for a cure.

Caring for the Planet & Each Other
Our crews celebrated Earth Day at Tanger Outlets in Savannah and Daytona Beach this year, sharing ways we can all contribute to a cleaner, healthier planet. And when Hurricane Helene struck upstate South Carolina, our Greenery family came together for clean-up efforts, showing resilience, teamwork, and compassion when it mattered most.

Building Stronger Communities Together
We are also proud to support organizations like Take Stock in Children, Inc., which provides mentors and scholarships to low-income students in Florida. These partnerships align with our belief that strong communities grow from opportunity, care, and connection.

Supporting Local Organizations Year-Round
Beyond individual projects and events, The Greenery, Inc. is proud to support dozens of community organizations through sponsorships and participation. From youth programs like the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island and educational initiatives such as the Hilton Head Home Builders Association Education Fund to cultural partners like the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra and the Italian American Club of Hilton Head Festival, we are honored to give back in ways that strengthen the fabric of our community. Our involvement also extends to organizations that protect our environment and preserve our region’s beauty — including the Coastal Conservation League, Palmetto Bluff Conservancy, and The Outside Foundation — as well as nonprofits dedicated to service and outreach like the Deep Well Project, Operation Patriots FOB, Neighborhood Outreach Connection, and Rotary Club of Hilton Head. Whether supporting local sports in Sun City, standing alongside the Folds of Honor Foundation, or partnering with the Hilton Head Humane Association, we remain committed to making a difference wherever we can.

At The Greenery, Inc., we’re more than landscapers – we’re neighbors, partners, and advocates for the places we call home. Whether it’s rolling up our sleeves to prepare for a festival, investing in education, or lending a hand in times of need, we remain committed to cultivating communities as vibrant as the landscapes we maintain.

Together, we’re growing something greater.

The Greenery, Inc. recently brought together team members from our many branches across the Southeast for a company-wide Town Hall. It was a day dedicated to connection, celebration, and exciting updates about where we’re headed next. Taking place at the beautiful Sun City community in Hardeeville, South Carolina, the event offered a great opportunity to unite our growing company and reflect on another successful season of cultivating both beautiful landscapes and strong relationships.

The Town Hall truly captured what The Greenery, Inc. is all about – our people. From Hilton Head and Savannah to Charleston, Greenville, Jacksonville, and beyond, employees from every branch came together under one roof. The energy in the room spoke volumes about the pride, teamwork, and dedication that drive our success every day.

Company leaders shared updates on new growth initiatives, community partnerships, and upcoming projects that will help us continue enhancing the beauty and sustainability of the places we serve across the Southeast. The event also gave us a chance to recognize team members for their years of service and outstanding contributions. Another great reminder that The Greenery’s continued success is deeply rooted in its people.

Reflecting on the gathering, Jim Van Dijk, Director of Client Services at The Greenery, Inc., shared:

“Each year our Town Hall is a significant reminder of what makes The Greenery special. Every person here plays a part in our story. When we come together like this, it reinforces that our strength isn’t just in the work we do…it’s in the people who do it.”

As The Greenery, Inc. continues to grow and thrive, we remain focused on enhancing people’s lives through beautiful landscape, investing in our team members, and building greener, more vibrant communities together.

As the seasons shift, The Greenery, Inc. is hard at work preparing the commercial properties we maintain across the Southeast for cooler weather and the months ahead. While our region doesn’t see the harsh winters of the north, fall is an important time to refresh landscapes, protect plant material, and set the stage for a strong, healthy spring. 

Here’s a look at what our crews will be tackling on your properties this season:

1. Refreshing Seasonal Color
We’ll be swapping out tired summer annuals for vibrant fall plantings. Expect to see colorful pansies, violas, ornamental kale, and other cool-weather favorites that keep entrances and high-visibility areas looking bright and welcoming well into winter.

2. Aerating and Overseeding Turf
Our turf crews will be aerating compacted soil to improve root health and overseeding thin areas so your lawns stay lush and green. This essential step helps turf recover from summer stress and prepares it for a healthy growing season.

3. Applying Fall Fertilization
We’ll be applying fertilizer that gives turf and plants the nutrients they need to strengthen roots, boost resilience, and maintain vitality through cooler months. This helps ensure greener, healthier landscapes come spring.

4. Inspecting and Adjusting Irrigation Systems
Our irrigation specialists will be checking systems for leaks, clogs, and inefficiencies. We’ll also adjust run times to match fall’s cooler temperatures and increased rainfall, conserving resources while keeping your landscapes properly hydrated.

5. Pruning Shrubs and Trees
Our crews will be pruning shrubs and trees to remove deadwood, shape plant material, and reduce hazards around walkways and parking areas. This not only improves plant health but also ensures your property maintains a neat, professional appearance.

6. Mulching for Protection and Curb Appeal
We’ll be adding fresh mulch where needed to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and give beds a clean, polished look. It’s a simple enhancement that provides big benefits for both aesthetics and plant health.

Growing Something Greater Together
At The Greenery, Inc., we don’t just maintain landscapes — we care for them as if they were our own. This fall, our crews will be working hard across the Southeast to ensure the properties we manage remain safe, attractive, and thriving.

Interested in having The Greenery, Inc. handle your commercial landscaping needs this season? Contact us today and let’s get your property fall-ready.

At The Greenery, Inc., we don’t just build beautiful landscapes – we build lasting partnerships. Our construction landscaping services are designed with a long-term vision in mind, ensuring that every project transitions smoothly from installation to full-scale maintenance and management.

We believe the success of a landscape project goes far beyond the day it’s completed. It’s about seeing that project thrive for years to come, and we’re committed to being there every step of the way.

From Groundbreaking to Ongoing Growth
Each construction project we take on is treated as a partnership. Whether we’re working with property owners, landscape architects, or general contractors, we take a team-first approach. With decades of experience across a broad range of services, The Greenery, Inc. brings both technical expertise and collaborative spirit to the table.

No matter the size or complexity of the project, we take pride in guiding it through every phase – from conception and design budgeting to installation and ultimately, transition into long-term property management with our expert maintenance teams.

Building a Strong Foundation
While the finishing touches are what people see, the groundwork is where the true success of a landscape begins. Soil preparation, proper amendments, and expert planting techniques are vital to establishing a healthy, sustainable environment. These steps may go unnoticed, but they are absolutely essential – and it’s where our teams at The Greenery, Inc. excel.

Quality Planting from Trusted Sources
Planting is the most visible and vibrant part of any landscape. With over 50 years serving the Southeast, The Greenery, Inc. has cultivated long-standing relationships with growers and nurseries across the region. These partnerships allow us to source high-quality trees, shrubs, and plants – at competitive prices – even in challenging markets. We even maintain our own tree stock to ensure availability and consistency on tight timelines.

Comprehensive Hardscape Solutions + Rooftop Amenities
Our services go beyond plants and irrigation. The Greenery, Inc. offers high-quality hardscape construction, providing clients with a true turnkey experience. From unit paving and site furnishings to synthetic surfaces and specialty elements, we bring both craftsmanship and versatility to every project.

As urban developments are popping up across the Southeast, rooftop gardens and amenity spaces are becoming essential elements in modern design. The Greenery, Inc. is proud to offer specialized green roof services, helping clients bring green space to even the most limited footprints – without sacrificing beauty or function.

005030From budgeting and pre-construction planning to installation and maintenance, our Construction Landscape team provides unmatched value at every stage. We work collaboratively with clients, contractors, and designers to ensure the success of each project.

“At The Greenery, our strength in commercial landscape construction comes from our fully integrated team and decades of hands-on experience,” explains Rick Sotiropolous, Director of Landscape Construction for The Greenery, Inc. “We manage every phase of the build with precision, consistency, and a commitment to quality. What makes us unique is our ability to scale, adapt, and deliver high-performing landscapes that meet the specific needs of each client and property.”

But our ultimate goal goes beyond just project completion – we want to build long-term partnerships. We’re not just your landscaping contractor; we’re your landscaping team, ready to help your property thrive now and into the future.

Looking to start your next landscape construction project? Contact The Greenery, Inc. today to learn how our team can bring your vision to life – and keep it growing for years to come.

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July is not just the peak of summer heat – it’s also Smart Irrigation Month, a nationwide initiative from the Irrigation Association dedicated to raising awareness about water-efficient technologies and practices. At The Greenery, Inc., we are proud to support this important movement by offering cutting-edge smart irrigation solutions that help to conserve water, reduce costs, and maintain beautiful, healthy landscapes all year long.

Why Smart Irrigation Matters
Water is one of our planet’s most precious resources. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as much as 50% of outdoor water use is wasted due to overwatering, inefficient systems, and evaporation. That’s where smart irrigation systems come in. These intelligent systems use real-time weather data, soil moisture sensors, and predictive analytics to water landscapes only when needed – no more, no less.

Smart irrigation isn’t just about turning off the sprinklers when it rains. It’s about using advanced technology to understand the environment and tailor watering schedules dynamically. A sunny July afternoon in South Carolina might call for a completely different watering plan than a cool, cloudy morning in November. Smart systems adapt to those variables in real time.

The Greenery, Inc. Difference
Our team of experienced irrigation technicians at The Greenery, Inc. specializes in designing, installing, and managing advanced smart irrigation systems tailored to the needs of your property. Whether your site requires a handful of irrigation zones or dozens, we provide scalable, reliable solutions backed by industry-leading expertise.

We work with top-tier irrigation technologies, including:

• Weathermatic
• Toro Sentinel
• Rain Bird Central Control
• Hunter Hydrawise

These systems go beyond basic timers. They include features like predictive weather adjustments, real-time rainfall detection, flow sensors that detect leaks, and even wireless valve controls. The result? Smarter watering that saves water, lowers your utility bills, and improves landscape health.

Benefits of Smart Irrigation
Here’s what makes smart irrigation a smart investment:

• Water Conservation: Systems use climate and soil data to optimize watering schedules and avoid waste.
• Cost Savings: Less water use equals lower utility bills – especially during peak irrigation months like July.
• Healthier Landscapes: Proper hydration leads to stronger root systems and greener, more resilient plants.
• Convenience: Remote access, real-time alerts, and automated scheduling make managing your system easier than ever.
• Fewer Repairs: Leak detection and system monitoring help prevent costly water damage and wasted resources.

Our Commitment to Smarter Water Use
At The Greenery, Inc., we don’t just install irrigation systems – we actively manage them. Our technicians perform routine audits, track water usage, adjust settings seasonally, and create customized water management programs to meet your goals. Whether we’re handling one controller or one thousand, we do it quickly, affordably, and efficiently.

As temperatures rise this summer, take action to make your property more sustainable. Smart irrigation is more than just good technology – it’s a commitment to smarter water use, better landscapes, and a greener future.

Contact us today to see how The Greenery, Inc. can help your commercial landscape property embrace Smart Irrigation Month.

At The Greenery, Inc. safety isn’t just a once-a-year conversation – it’s a commitment we live out every day. But during National Safety Month this June, we take an extra moment to spotlight the safety principles that are woven into everything we do. From our team members in the field to the clients and communities we serve, safety is always our highest priority.

Whether it’s a resort property, a corporate campus, or a busy retail center, commercial property owners have a responsibility to ensure their landscapes are not only beautiful but also safe, accessible, and welcoming. That’s where The Greenery, Inc. comes in. Our team delivers landscape enhancements that add visual impact and support the safety and comfort of everyone who steps onto your property. Safety is something we focus on day in and day out.

Putting Safety First

While stunning lawns and pristine flower beds are what people notice first, it’s the behind-the-scenes safety practices that ensure everything runs smoothly and safely. 

At The Greenery, Inc., we believe that safety starts with education and consistency. That’s why every week, our crews attend Safety Meetings led by Jerry Ashmore, Director of Workforce Development and Safety, and Richard Berthiaume, Safety Manager. These sessions cover real-world scenarios and practical strategies to help our team work safely and confidently.

Topics include:

• Heat illness prevention (especially important in the summer months!)
• Storm preparedness and response
• Preventing lifting injuries
• Mowing near water’s edge or on slopes
• Recognizing and avoiding insect stings
• Staying safe in cold weather conditions
• Motor vehicle and trailer safety
• Working around wildlife- including alligators
• Wearing protective gear
• Proper transport of equipment and materials
• Understanding the dangers of energy drinks on the job

Each meeting empowers our employees to stay informed, vigilant, and proactive about keeping safety at the forefront of all that they do.

Safety That Protects Your People and Property

Not only do we learn about safety measures. We put this knowledge into practice on every property we serve. We strive to give our property owners the peace of mind knowing their commercial landscape is not only inviting but also risk-free. Uneven pathways, poorly placed irrigation lines, or untrimmed foliage can create potential hazards. Through thoughtful design and meticulous maintenance, The Greenery, Inc. helps our clients enhance curb appeal while reducing liability at the same time.

From smart drainage solutions that prevent slippery walkways to precise mowing patterns that reduce trip hazards, The Greenery, Inc. treats the properties we maintain like our own. And because our team is trained to work safely around both natural and manmade challenges, we help keep tenants, customers, and visitors protected at every step.

“At The Greenery, Inc., safety is more than a priority – it’s a core value. National Safety Month is a reminder that protecting our team, our clients, and our communities is daily and intentional commitment,” Jerry Ashmore, Director of Workforce Development and Safety.

As we honor National Safety Month, we invite you to look beyond the blooms and into the backbone of what makes a landscape exceptional. Safety isn’t just a feature – it’s a foundation. And with The Greenery, Inc. that foundation is solid.

At one of Hilton Head Island’s most traveled intersections, where William Hilton Parkway meets Squire Pope Road, two majestic oak trees have stood watch for centuries. These towering giants, estimated to be between 400 and 500 years old, are among the oldest living trees on the Island. And now, thanks to a transformative beautification project, they’ve been elevated to their rightful place as a stunning natural landmark welcoming everyone who enters the Island.

This spring, The Greenery, Inc. was honored to work with the Town of Hilton Head Island on the Oak Trees Beautification Project, a thoughtful effort to showcase the natural and historic significance of these trees while creating a scenic and serene space at the Island’s gateway.

Previously hidden by thick underbrush, these iconic oaks were easy to overlook – even though thousands of visitors and locals passed by daily. The Town of Hilton Head took the lead by clearing the surrounding land, revealing the trees in all their grandeur and setting the stage for what would become a pocket park and visual centerpiece.

Designing a Welcoming Space

Under the guidance of The Greenery, Inc.’s landscape architect, Todd Parrott, our team worked closely with the Town to bring this project to life over the course of two weeks – adapting and refining designs onsite to ensure the result was the perfect symbol of Lowcountry serenity. Key features of the project include:

• Dramatic uplighting to highlight the scale and beauty of the ancient oaks, both day and night.
• A heart-shaped, pervious pathway, extended from the west side of William Hilton Parkway into the site, constructed with natural materials to blend seamlessly with the environment.
• Native landscaping, designed to complement the Lowcountry ecosystem while enhancing the park’s visual appeal.
• Brick columns with a rail fence, forming a tasteful perimeter that both defines and protects the space.

A Gateway with Purpose

The revitalized site not only protects and elevates two of the Island’s most historic natural assets, but it also provides a peaceful, welcoming pause point for those coming onto the Island. The park now offers a quiet moment to appreciate the Island’s natural history, thoughtful design, and enduring charm.

The Greenery, Inc. is proud to have played a role in this transformative project. It was truly a team effort, with our commercial landscape crew, dedicated subcontractors, and the Town of Hilton Head working hand-in-hand to bring this vision to life.

So the next time you pass the intersection of William Hilton Parkway and Squire Pope Road, take a look – and take a moment. Those towering oaks are more than just trees. They’re a living welcome to Hilton Head Island opening their arms wide to greet all who journey to our little piece of paradise.