The Growing Concern September 2015 by Sandy Munley

Growing Concern

The

SEPTEMBER 2015

A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E O H I O L A N D S C A P E A S S O C I AT I O N

OLAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 50th Anniversary Celebration September 19, 2015 PAGE 26

Successful Plant Combinations September 23, 2015 PAGE 34

THREE REASONS TO CONSIDER CHANGING YOUR INSURANCE AGENT. BIGGER SAVINGS Offering an average savings of 22.8% compared to other top insurance carriers with discounts for OLA members.

BETTER COVERAGE Unique coverage not offered by most insurance carriers for faulty workmanship and contractors equipment.

BEST VALUE For over 22 years, our experienced staff has provided fast, friendly service to green industry professionals.

Introducing a unique landscaper insurance program now available to Ohio Landscapers. Call Greg at 440-537-2292 today to receive a personal consultation and to discuss whether we are the right carrier for you. Get started by going to www.botsoninsurancegroup.com to complete the Landscape Contractors Quote form and email it directly to greg@botsoninsurancegroup.com or fax it to 440-934-0379. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait, call today!

HELPING OVER 150 GREEN INDUSTRY CLIENTS

PRESIDENT’S COLUMN

STEVE MOORE S.A.M. Landscaping, Inc.

ENGAGE THE DISENGAGED Every company has a few people on staff who are just not engaged. Although, they may show up every day, work most of the time and be reliable, they are not really “there.” It always pays big dividends to employ people who are engaged in their work. Whether they are project managers, foreman, or field laborers, you can engage each one the same way. It is a proven fact that engaged employees are 80% less likely to leave your organization and also perform 20% better than the average employee (HR Magazine). An employee who has his or her own personal goals outlined will more than likely be a better employee. Aligning or comparing their goals to the company’s goals will help them understand how their production rate can impact business overall. Cutting out the waste always improves the bottom line; business or personal. So, are you effective at engaging your employees with their day-to-day job duties? Here are a few tips that may be useful:

REWARD AND RECOGNIZE APPROPRIATELY When an employee goes above and beyond for a client or coworker, make sure to acknowledge it by letting them know it

didn’t go unnoticed. If you make their effort feel appreciated, most likely they will make the effort again. I’m not saying that you need to give away the farm, but something small always goes a long way.

GIVE EMPLOYEES A VOICE Most employees like to offer their input on a new piece of equipment, especially if their job requires them to operate it. If an employee helps make the decision on what type of equipment to purchase or rent, they will more likely be eager to make money with it, for themselves and the company. You may also discover that they will care for the piece of equipment like it is their own. A good employee will always understand that the final decision always rests with the powers that be.

HELP THEM FEEL LIKE THEY BELONG Clear communication, employee interaction and working as a team allows the company as a whole to perform better and achieve a better profit margin. A simple “Hello” or “Good continued on page 6 The Growing Concern x September 2015 x 3

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 W W W. O H I O L A N D S C A P E R S . O R G

OHIO’S PROFESSIONAL GREEN I N D U S T R Y A S S O C I AT I O N OHIO LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION 9240 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, Ohio 44147 Phone: 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 Fax: 440-717-0004 Web: www.ohiolandscapers.org or www.myohiolandscape.com EDITOR Darlene Hess, Ohio Landscape Association REGULAR WRITERS Michael J. Donnellan, King Financial, Inc. Jim Funai, COLP, Cuyahoga Community College Shelley Funai, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Sandy Munley, Ohio Landscape Association Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, Bobbie’s Green Thumb Steve Moore, S.A.M. Landscaping, Inc.

ON THE COVER — Landscape Ohio! Award Winner Rice’s Nursery and Landscaping, Inc.

FEATURES

PRESIDENT’S COLUMN

Engage The Disengaged

FOR SAFETY SAKE

FISCAL FITNESS

Important Steps To Take When A Workplace Injury Occurs

Retirement Planning Challenges for Women

PLANT OF THE MONTH

Acer pseudoplatanus Sycamore Maple

PERENNIAL FOCUS

ADVERTISING INFORMATION Submission deadline: 10th of month prior to publication month. For advertising rates, please call 1-800-335-6521 DISCLAIMER The Ohio Landscape Association, its board of directors, staff and the editor of The Growing Concern neither endorse any product(s) or attest to the validity of any statements made about products mentioned in this, past or subsequent issues of this publication. Similarly, the opinions expressed in The Growing Concern are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Ohio Landscape Association.

OFFICERS President Steve Moore President-Elect Bryan Taynor

Liriope Lily-Turf

Treasurer Cathy Serafin, ASLA, RLA

28 WHEN TO SAY NO IN ORDER TO BENEFIT

Immediate Past President Joe Twardzik, CID

YOUR GREEN INDUSTRY BUSINESS

DIRECTIONS

Can You Hit A Home Run At A Golf Outing?

INSIDE EVERY ISSUE

6 37

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS ADVERTISING INDEX

OLA STAFF Executive Director Sandy Munley Communications and Events Manager Darlene Hess Membership Coordinator Sue Whitlam

DIRECTORS Eric Brubeck, ASLA Adam Capiccioni Jacob Grimm Nathan Kowalsick Marie McConnell

CALENDAR OF EVENTS U P C O M I N G O L A M E E T I N G S , E D U C AT I O N S E M I N A R S A N D O T H E R G R E E N I N D U S T R Y E V E N T S

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

Join us as we hang out, talk shop, share information and have a few laughs. We will be gathering at The Pub at Polaris, Polaris Fashion Place, 1554 Polaris Parkway #104, Columbus, OH from 6pm to ?? For every prospective new member you bring, you will be entered in a drawing to win a prize. For more information, contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521, or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Held on the campus of OSU ATI in Wooster, OH. Pre-register by September 14, 2015. Written test only will be given October 6 at ATI. For more information, contact Jan Elliott or Kim Sayers at the Ohio State ATI Business Training and Educational Services office at 330-287-7511, or 330-287-0100, or visit LandscapeCertifiedOhio.org.

OLA Happy Hour SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

OLA Happy Hour SEPTEMBER 10, 2015 Join us as we hang out, talk shop, share information and have a few laughs. We will be gathering at The Winking Lizard, 9570 Mentor Avenue, Mentor, OH from 6pm to ?? For every prospective new member you bring, you will be entered in a drawing to win a prize. For more information, contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521, or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA 50th Anniversary Celebration SEPTEMBER 19, 2015 You are not going to want to miss this event! OLA turns 50 this year, so we will be celebrating in style at the Embassy Suites in Independence, OH. Join us for a fun evening of food, beverages, live entertainment by Nitebridge, dancing, prizes, and networking. For more information, contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521, or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Successful Plant Combinations SEPTEMBER 23, 2015 Attendees will learn how to make a difference in landscape design by working with texture, color, form and the design process. Instructed by Kathy Stokes-Shafer, APLD. Held at Klyn Nurseries in Perry, OH. For more information or to register, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521, or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Landscape Industry Certified Technician Test – Written Only OCTOBER 6, 2015

OLA Central Ohio Meeting – Facility Tour OCTOBER 15, 2015 Join us for a behind the scenes tour of Hidden Creek Landscaping’s brand new facility in Hilliard, OH. For more information, contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521, or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Landscapes 2015 OCTOBER 21-23, 2015 NALP’s Landscapes 2015 (formerly known as the GIC-Green Industry Conference) is held in conjunction with GIE + Expo – each year in Louisville, KY. The conference has many educational and networking opportunities. For more information go to landcarenetwork.org

GIE + Expo & Hardscape North America OCTOBER 22-23, 2015 The Green Industry & Equipment Expo (GIE + Expo) and Hardscape North America are co-located in the Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY. The show includes a 19-acre outdoor demo area. For more information go to GIE+Expo.com.

Companies.” This meeting will be held at St. Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Hts., OH. For information, contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521, or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

DECEMBER OTF Trade Show DECEMBER 8-10, 2015 49th Annual OTF Conference and Trade Show now featuring the OSU Green Industry Short Course! Held at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. OLA is partnering with OTF for this event, and OLA members will receive member pricing on this event! Visit the OLA Booth at this show! For more information, contact OTF at 614-285-4683, or visit OTFShow.org.

Landscape Ohio! Awards Program Entry Deadline DECEMBER 11, 2015 All submissions are due in the OLA office by 5 pm. No Exceptions! Be sure to enter Ohio’s most prestigious landscape enhancement awards program. Winning projects are featured in Landscape Ohio! Magazine, a supplement to Ohio Magazine and Cleveland Magazine. For more information, contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521, or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

JANUARY CENTS Trade Show and Conference JANUARY 11-13, 2016 Visit the OLA booth at CENTS. Held at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. For more information about the show, contact the ONLA at 800-825-5062.

NOVEMBER

OLA Meeting JANUARY 21, 2016

This meeting will feature Charles VanderKooi as he delivers “Three Cultures That Run Through All Successful

Details to be announced. This meeting will be held at St. Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Hts., OH. For information, contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521, or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA Annual Meeting NOVEMBER 19, 2015

The Growing Concern x September 2015 x 5

PRESIDENT’S COLUMN continued from pg 3

klynnurseries.com Over 1800 Different Species And Cultivars To Meet Your Needs! bamboo grasses perennials ferns vines roses dwarf conifers bog & marginals

Morning” makes most people feel like they are welcome. A special parking spot for the employee of the month would really make them feel like they belong.

HIRE FOR LEADERSHIP Prior to hiring someone, I always let them know the potential that lies in front of them. Like everyone else, we are often hiring for field labor. I like to show the potential hire the opportunities that are available if they play their cards right. Reminding them that hard work is how you get to the top and hardly working will get you nowhere. Speaking of being engaged, I encourage everyone reading this to take advantage of all that the OLA offers by attending a monthly meeting, workshop or social event this coming fall. There are several opportunities this month to engage yourself with the OLA. First on my list would be to attend the OLA 50th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, September 19th. Hope to see everyone there!

shade & ornamental trees

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!

The Ohio Landscape Association is delighted to welcome the following new members to the association:

Visit Our Website For Product Availability, Our 2015 Catalog, Quote Form, And More!

(contact us to receive your username and password.) klyn nurseries, inc.

1-800-860-8104 klynnurseries.com

REGULAR MEMBER: AMERISCAPE LAND DESIGN, INC 458 Locklie Drive Highland Heights, OH 44143 (440) 473-0674 Frank L. Sedar

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS: BLOCKHEAD SUPPLY

TRANSPORT SERVICES, INC.

2786 Center Road Brunswick, OH 44212 (330) 225-9175 Adam Burhenne

10499 Royalton Road North Royalton, OH 44133 (440) 582-4900 Tom Soggs

PAT O’BRIEN CHEVROLET 25100 Detroit Road Westlake, OH 44145 (440) 250-2934 Lonnie Cobb

6 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

07.31.15 | Special advertising feature to Columbus Business First

OLA Central Ohio Meeting Announcement Hidden Creek - Palmetto Construction | palmettobuilds.com

Hidden Creek - Palmetto Construction | palmettobuilds.com

07.31.15 | Special advertising feature to Columbus Business First

Hidden Creek - Palmetto Construction | palmettobuilds.com

07.31.15 | Special advertising feature to Columbus Business First

October 15, 2015 Landscape Facility Tour HELD AT

Hidden Creek Landscaping Columbus, OH

Hidden Creek Landscaping builds new design enter with help from Palmetto Construction Hidden Creek Landscaping builds design Hidden Creek new Landscaping Inc. was AGENDA founded in 1998 by Matt Seiler and centerbuilds with help Palmetto Construction en Creek new from design Jason Cromley. While taking classes 5:00 Landscaping pm to 5:30 pm in Landscape Architecture at er withREGISTRATION help from Palmetto Construction together The Ohio State University, a mutual

ing Hidden Creek are turning to Palmetto idden Creek Landscaping has stick to our budget. We trusted him and for integrated facilities and project manbeen a leader in transformhe never let us down, staying on budget agement. We have the resources and ing and maintaining beautiand meeting our timeline, even when we scalability deliver sustainable busiful, functional outdoor living did the unthinkable and moved up the has ing Hidden Creek are turning to Palmetto idden Creek Landscaping stick to to our budget. We trusted him and ness results.” spaces in central Ohio for the deadline.” for integrated facilities and project manbeen a leader in transformhe never let us down, staying on budget t 17 years. To better serve its clienagement. We have the resources and ing and maintaining beautiand meeting our timeline, even when we 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm “With a lot landscape and design/build and showcase its work, the company Working with Palmetto as the general living scalability to deliver sustainable busiful, functional theofunthinkable ing Hidden Creek did are turning to Palmetto moved up the en Creek Landscaping has stick to our budget. We trusted him and outdoor TOUR firms, clients rarely come to your office,” s looking to build aFACILITY new headquarters, contractor and M+A Architects on the de-for the ness results.” spaces in central Ohio deadline.” for integrated facilities and project mann a leader in transformhe never let us down, staying on budget says Cromley. “We wanted to bring clierations and design center. Hidden sign, the moved swiftlyserve alongitsa clienpastproject 17 years. To better agement. We have the resources and and maintaining beautiand meeting our timeline, even when we ek chose Palmetto Construction as tight timeline. Located on eight acres in ents to our facility to show them what “With a lot of landscape design/build and showcase work, the company Working with Palmetto 7:30 tothe 8:30 pmtele and scalability to deliver sustainable busi- as the general functional outdoor livingpmdid unthinkable moved upitsthe Hilliardwas justlooking inside the 270 outer the we’re contractor all about. We’ve made it easyon forthe debuilder of its new facility. firms, clients rarely come to your office,” to build a newbelt, headquarters, and M+A Architects ness results.” ces in central OhioNETWORKNG/SOCIAL for the deadline.” HOUR/FOOD SERVED the homeowner to walk in and feel comnew location aff ords a more central point says Cromley. “We wanted to bring clioperations and design center. Hidden sign, the project moved swiftly along a To better serve its clienfortable. They can see the types of matefor clients and quick access to freeways e’d known for a while that we wanted ents to our facility to show them what Creek chose as of landscape tight timeline. Located on eight acres in “With a lot design/build case its work, the company Working with Palmetto as thePalmetto general Construction rials we’ll be using on their project, see for Hidden Creek’s field crews. The propbuild a new facility that would serve we’re all about. We’ve made it easy for theArchitects builder ofon itsthe newdefacility.firms, clients rarely Hilliard inside comejust to your offthe ice,”270 outer belt, the build a new headquarters, contractor and M+A REGISTER ATTEND BY photosnew of our past projects and even see only as our headquarters but as aTOerty layout functions to integrate the the homeowner to walk in and feel comlocation ords clia more central point says Cromley. “We wanted toaff bring d design center. Hidden sign, the project moved swiftly along a their design projected on state-of-the art ce clients could come to see a vision landscape designs with the operational fortable. They can see the types of mate“We’d known for a while that we wanted for clients and quick access to freeways ents to our facility to show them what Palmetto Construction as tight5, timeline. Located on eight acres in 2015 Low voltage LED lighting enhances the reclaimed TV screens. They Creek’s get veryfield excited when what their finishedOCTOBER project might look aspects ofbuild building new projects. for Hidden crews. The proprials we’ll be using on their project, see to a new facility that would serve we’re all about. We’ve made it easy for ts new facility. Hilliard just inside the 270 outer belt, the wood Pergola/IPE blade wall at the Hidden Creek ,” said Jason Cromley, co-founder of seelayout it and functions envision it coming to entrance.photos erty of our past projects and even see notaonly our headquarters but as they a can Guests are welcomed with seasonal the homeowner to walk in and feel com- to integrate the new location affords moreas central point The development plan utilizes entire life.” den Creek. “We knew what we wanttheir design projected onand state-of-the art placeaccess clientsto could comethe tofortable. see a vision designs with the operational annual displays of outstanding color texture or a while that weHELD wanted AT for clients and quick freeways They canlandscape see the types of mateeight-acre site.their The building makes use of look in a new facility, and while we know from theTV ground up. They get very excited when what project might aspects of building screens. for Hidden Creek’soffield crews. finished The proprials we’ll be using on their project, new see projects. w facility that would serve struction, we don’t know this type of approximately 11,200 feet on two The new facility caters to clients and emthey can see it and envision it coming to like,” said Jasonsquare Cromley, of ur headquarters but as a erty layout functions to integrate the co-founder photos of our past projects and even see HIDDEN CREEK LANDSCAPING ployees alike, with its natural light, lush struction.” floors, housingCreek. all business operations, ommend life.”working with Jerry and his Hidden “We knew what wantThe development plan theirwe design projected on state-of-the artutilizes the entire ould come to see a vision landscape designs with the operational the design and operations of- know landscaping andsite. convenient parking. team at Palmetto,” 3940 ROAD ednew inCREEK acenter new facility, and while we Thewhen building makes useLED of Low voltage lighting enhances theCromley reclaimed says. “The inished project might look SCIOTO aspects ofDARBY building projects. TV screens. Theyeight-acre get very excited “We looked at larger11,200 firms to get ideas Cromley and his partner Matt Seiler, fices. The property features reclaimed process was very smooth. Most projects wood blade wall at the Hidden Creek The new facility caters to clients and emconstruction, we don’taknow thiscan typesee of approximately square feetPergola/IPE on two they it and envision it coming to on Cromley, co-founder of HILLIARD, OH 43026 entrance. Guests are welcomed with seasonal of what we might wantalltobusiness do and incornt on a search for the perfect fit in a barn wood entry pergola, a warehouse like this tend toalike, run behind, Palmetfloors, housing operations, ployees with its but natural light, lush life.” “We knew what we wantThe developmentconstruction.” plan utilizes the entire annual displays ofdidn’t outstanding color and texture lder. They researched and talked with with three bays and six skylights, a deporated our favorite features,” Cromley to overpromise. They stuck very the design center and operations oflandscaping and convenient parking. cility, and while we know eight-acre site. The building makes use of from the ground up. ous builders, but Cromley said they sign/build studio, aand fieldhis staff operations says. “Our was to build a spacea that closely“We to our budget and finished So, Cromley partner Matt Seiler, fices.goal The property features reclaimed looked at larger firms toeven get ideas The new facility caters to clients and emwe don’t know thisNO type ofCHARGE approximately 11,200 square feet on two TO ATTEND! w “right off the bat” that Palmetto room, a kitchen, a large conference room clients would enjoy, as well as one that faster than we had planned. I couldn’t barn wood entry aommend warehouse of what might went on a search for the perfect fit alike, in a with floors, housing all business operations, ployees its natural light,pergola, lush working with we Jerry andwant his to do and incorour staff would look forward to coming s the right fit. and a maintenance studio. have been any happier with Palmetto three baysparking. and six skylights, deporated our says. favorite features,” Cromley builder. researched talked with andwith the design center and They operations of- andlandscaping convenient team ata Palmetto,” Cromley “The to work in each day.” and will continue to recommend them to that “OurMost goal was to build a space various builders, but Cromley they sign/build a field staff operations nd his partner Matt Seiler, fices. The property features a reclaimed “Wesaid looked at larger firms studio, to get ideas process was verysays. smooth. projects rry (Jerry Diodore, owner of Palmet“Cost knew reduction, productivity, and revthose clients lookingwould for a trusted construction enjoy, as well as one that “right off the bat” that Palmetto room, a kitchen, a large conference room barn wood entry pergola, a warehouse of what we might want to do and incorlike this tend to run behind, but Palmetrch for the perfect fit in a QUALIFIES And how the process,studio. working with enue was acceleration have become basic proved very quickly in the process partner.” the skylights, right fit. andwas afeatures,” maintenance our staff would look forward to coming with three bays and six a deporated our favorite Cromley to didn’t overpromise. They stuck very esearched and talked with expectations from clients,” said Diodore. Palmetto Construction? “I can’t say t he would listen to what we wanted, to work infinished each day.” CEU’S says. “Our goal was to build a space that rs, but Cromley said they sign/build studio, a field2staff operations closely to our budget and even To learn more about Hidden Creek Landscaping, enough about how much we would recke recommendations and help us “That’s why so many companies includ(Jerry Diodore, of Palmet“Cost and revclients would enjoy, as reduction, well as oneproductivity, that ff the bat” that Palmetto room, a kitchen, a“Jerry large conference roomowner faster than wehttp://www.hiddencreeklandscaping.com/. had planned. I couldn’t visit And howwith was Palmetto the process, visit working with to)studio. proved very quickly in our the staff process enueforward acceleration have become basic Toany learnhappier more about Palmetto Construction, t. and a maintenance would look to coming have been Palmetto Construction? that he would listen to whattowe wanted, expectations from clients,” said Diodore. http://www.palmettobuilds.com/home.html#home. work in each day.” and will continue to recommend them to “I can’t say recommendations “That’s why so many companies about how much we would recDiodore, owner of Palmet“Cost reduction, make productivity, and rev- and help us those includlooking forenough a trusted construction

respect for hard work and creativity was discovered. With a shared vision on how projects should be installed and people should be treated, a business relationship was formed based on solid morals and friendship. Hidden Creek’s brand new building sits on an eight-acre site. It is approxiLow voltage LED lighting enhances the reclaimed mately 11,200 square feet on two floors. The facility houses wood Pergola/IPE blade wall at the Hidden Creek entrance.a Guests are welcomed with seasonal all business operations, including offices, design studio, annual displays of outstanding color and texture groundstaff up. a three-bay warehouse, six skylights,from a the field room, a maintenance studio, a kitchen and large conference ommend working withroom. Jerry and his team at Palmetto,” Cromley says. “The

process was very can smooth. Most projects They created a state-of-the-art facility where they bring like this tend to run behind, but Palmetclients to preview their landscape plan, see the types to didn’t overpromise. They of stuck very closely to and our budget and finished materials that will be used on their project photos of even faster than we had planned. I couldn’t past Hidden Creek projects. have been any happier with Palmetto

ry quickly in the process listen to what we wanted, mendations and help us

enue acceleration have become basic expectations from clients,” said Diodore. “That’s why so many companies includ-

And how was the process, working with Palmetto Construction? “I can’t say enough about how much we would rec-

and will continue to recommend them to

those a trustedand construction Hidden Creek’s goal is to be recognized bylooking theirforpeers partner.” clients as one of the finest landscape design/build firms in To learn more about Hidden Creek Landscaping, Central Ohio with educated staff, innovative ideas, and visit http://www.hiddencreeklandscaping.com/. partner.” To learn more about Palmetto Construction, visit dedication to continued growth and professionalism. http://www.palmettobuilds.com/home.html#home.

To learn more about Hidden Creek Landscaping, visit http://www.hiddencreeklandscaping.com/. To learn more about Palmetto Construction, visit Welcome to the design center. An open space that is http://www.palmettobuilds.com/home.html#home. filled with natural light, clean lines, vibrant colors and natural building materials. Inspirational pictures from our portfolio make hidden creeks design center the best place to turn ideas to reality. Please make a point to tour our facility.

Join us for an enjoyable and informational evening.

Welcome to the design center. An open space that is

Welcome to the design center. An open space that is filled with natural light, clean lines, vibrant colors and natural building materials. Inspirational pictures from our portfolio make hidden creeks design center the best place to turn ideas to reality. Please make a point to tour our facility.

filled with natural light, clean lines, vibrant colors RSVP FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY ATTENDANCE BY OCTOBER 5, 2015 and natural building materials. Inspirational pictures from our portfolio make hidden creeks design REGISTER ONLINE AT OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG OR CALL THE OLA OFFICE AT 1-800-335-6521 center the best place to turn ideas to reality. Please make a point to tour our facility. OR EMAIL INFO@OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG

FOR SAFETY SAKE

IMPORTANT STEPS TO TAKE WHEN A WORKPLACE INJURY OCCURS BY BOB NICOLL, PROGRAM MANAGER, CAREWORKSCOMP Workplace safety is a high priority and concern for employers and employees alike. A workplace injury can affect a worker’s life, health and ability to earn an income. Workers’ compensation claims also have a direct impact on an employer’s bottom line. Claims can result in higher workers’ compensation premiums, affect worker morale and create labor shortages that affect completing projects on time. Despite our best efforts, accidents happen, and when they do it is very important to manage the claim effectively from the moment it occurs. All employees should be trained and familiar with injury protocols and procedures so when an incident occurs they know what is expected of them. This is especially important for businesses with employees who perform their duties off site without supervisors present. It should be company policy to immediately report all injuries to their supervisor or manager, and all supervisors should be trained on the steps they need to take once the incident is reported to them. Most injuries are minor but, regardless, all incidents should be reported, and an Incident Investigation Report completed and kept on file even if the employee refuses or does not require medical attention.

8 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

1. OBTAIN IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION IF NEEDED AND REPORT INCIDENT TO SUPERVISOR/EMPLOYER • E mployer should have a Managed Care Organization (MCO) card or injury packet available to send with the injured worker to the medical provider. • Injured worker should be accompanied by his/her supervisor to the medical provider.

2. SECURE THE ACCIDENT SITE AND PRESERVE EVIDENCE • Th is is especially important when there is a serious injury and equipment is involved.

3. INVESTIGATE AND GATHER FACTS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE • Th e supervisor should complete an Incident Investigation Report which includes associate, supervisor and witness incident statements. continued on page 10

Your Complete Outdoor & Landscape Lighting Resource www.cascadelighting.com

PROUD MEMBER OF

Ohio Nursery & Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association Landscape Association Ohio Nursery Promoting a Plant and&People Partnership Promoting a Plant and People Partnership

Promoting a Plant Association and People Partnership Landscape Promoting a Plant and People Partnership

Ohio Nursery & ® Landscape Association

O HIO LANDSCAPE

Promoting a Plant and People Partnership

ASSOCIATION

Encouraging Professional Standards and Promoting the Green Industry ®

O HIO LANDSCAPE

hba ®®

O OO HH II O LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION

Encouraging Professional Standards and Promoting the Green Industry

hba

LANDSCAPE PORTAGE & SUMMIT ®COUNTIES ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION Encouraging Professional Standards and

O HIO LANDSCAPE

Encouraging Professional Standards Promoting the Green Industryand Promoting the Green Industry

hba hba ASSOCIATION

Encouraging Professional Standards and Promoting the Green Industry

PORTAGE & SUMMIT COUNTIES

PORTAGE & SUMMIT COUNTIES PORTAGE & SUMMIT COUNTIES

Concept | Design | Support Unmatched Lighting Fixture Variety

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING Advantage Lightsource Alliance Outdoor Lighting American Lighting Arroyo Craftsman Auroralight B-K Lighting Escort Lighting Focus Industries FX Luminaire

Hadco Hevi Lite Inc. Hinkley Lighting HK Lighting Hunza IlluminFX Integral Lighting Kichler Kim Lighting Lumiere

Qtran Stone Manor Lighting Sollos TEKA The Lighting Division Troy Landscape Lighting Unique Lighting Systems Universal Lighting Systems Vision3 Vista

OUTDOOR LIGHTING Arroyo Craftsman Genie House Hinkley Lighting Kichler Lighting Maxim Lighting Minka Lavery

FOR SAFETY SAKE continued from pg 8 • The report should include: who was involved, date and time of the incident, what duties were being performed, what equipment was being used, what were the work conditions, was personal protective equipment (PPE) being used, a witness list and statements. • S upervisor should conduct one-on-one witness interviews. • W itness statements should include what they saw, heard, where they were at the time and should be notarized, if possible. • Take photographs or make drawings of the accident scene, if necessary. • D etermine if the incident was work related. • I njured worker should complete First Report of Injury (FROI), if possible, in his/her own handwriting.

4. NOTIFY YOUR MANAGED CARE ORGANIZATION (MCO) / THIRD PARTY ADMINISTRATOR (TPA) AND OSHA (IF REPORTABLE) • R eport all claims to your MCO Case Specialist as soon as possible. • C ontact your TPA claims examiner if you suspect fraud or a serious or potential lost time claim to discuss claim management strategies. • C ontact OSHA if it is a reportable claim. • Stay in frequent contact with your MCO Case Specialist and TPA Claim Examiners / the employer’s input is important.

5. EVALUATE FINDINGS AND IDENTIFY THE ROOT CAUSES OF THE INCIDENT

• • • • • • •

as PPE not used or improperly used? W F aulty equipment? D istractions? Failure to follow safety protocols / unsafe work practices? L ack of experience or inadequate training? F atigue or rushing to get the job done? U nsafe work conditions?

6. REPORT FINDINGS / IMPLEMENT CORRECTIVE ACTIONS /EVALUATE EFFECTIVENESS

• • • •

re new policies and procedures necessary? A D o you need to amend existing policies and procedures? I s new equipment needed? Is better safety training needed?

10 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

IMPORTANT CHANGES TO OSHA’S RECORDKEEPING RULE - EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2015 The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has implemented changes to both reporting and recordkeeping guidelines effective January 1, 2015. As of January 1, 2015, all employers covered under the Occupational Safety and Health Act must report: • A ll work-related fatalities within 8 hours. • A ll work-related inpatient hospitalizations, any amputation or loss of an eye within 24 hours. • Employers can report to OSHA by: 1. C alling OSHA’s free and confidential number at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) 2. C alling their closest OSHA Area Office during normal business hours 3. U sing the new online form that will soon be available. Only fatalities occurring within 30 days of the work-related incident must be reported to OSHA. Further, for an inpatient hospitalization, amputation or loss of an eye, these incidents must be reported to OSHA, only if they occur within 24 hours of the work-related incident. Previously, work-related fatalities and hospitalization of three or more employees required reporting. OSHA has also updated the Recordkeeping Rule. Employers with ten or fewer employees at all times during the previous calendar year are still exempt from routinely keeping OSHA injury and illness records unless OSHA or the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) asks them to do so. However, the rule updates the list of industries that are exempt from the requirement to keep OSHA injury and illness records due to relatively low occupational injury and illness rates. There are certain employees that are newly required to keep records. For a complete list of all employers required to keep records, go to OSHA’s Recordkeeping page at: www.osha.gov.

Bob Nicoll is the Program Manager for the OLA’s Workers’ Compensation Group Plan administered by CareWorksComp. To learn how you can join the OLA Group Rated Plan and save on your Worker’s Comp premiums, contact Bob at 614-764-7600 or robert.nicoll@careworkscomp.com.

FOR SAFETY SAKE

Workersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Compensation Claim Management Workflow

IW given FROI form, sent for treatment if appropriate. Supervisor completes accident investigation, notifies MCO and TPA of injury

Injury occurs

Did injured worker return to work?

Contact TPA for disability management plan

Yes

Monitor for reserve to drop to $0

Yes Provider sends medical to MCO/ BWC

Yes

Did IW seek treatment?

Full duty? **

No MCO Files claim with BWC, obtains certification/ rejection from employer

No Continue claims management until full duty or permanent restrictions

Claim can still be established

BWC makes allowance/denial determination on claim

If allowed, TPA performs cost containment measures, attends hearings, MCO performs medical management

To IC for District Hearing Officer determination

Appeal to initial determination filed?

Yes

No Appeal to DHO order filed?

** Note: If IW has missed 7 or fewer calendar days the claim is a medical only claim. If IW has missed 8 or more calendar days, the claim is a lost time.

Decision is final

Yes To IC for Staff Hearing Officer determination

Appeal to SHO order filed?

Yes IC will refuse appeal or hear before panel

Appeal filed?

Yes

To Court of Common Pleas via legal counsel

The Growing Concern x September 2015 x 11

FISCAL FITNESS

MICHAEL J. DONNELLAN King Financial, Inc.

RETIREMENT PLANNING CHALLENGES FOR WOMEN Saving for retirement remains one of the most important financial goals for both men and women. While saving for retirement is a huge endeavor for everyone, women face a variety of unique challenges and obstacles that should be taken into account in their long-term planning. First of all, and perhaps most importantly, women on average live longer than men. Therefore, they will simply need more money during retirement then men. According to the Social Security Administration, women at age 65 are expected to live another 21.6 years, while men are expected to live 19.3 years after age 65. Many women alive today will live into their 90â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. This means many women will need to be prepared financially and emotionally for a retirement lasting, in some cases, over 30 years.

12 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Another challenge women face is that they typically have fewer years in the workforce. According to the Social Security Administration, the average man retiring has 44 years of working under his belt, however, the average woman has only 32. This is because women are more likely than men to take time off from work to have and raise children and sometimes interrupt their careers to care for aging parents. continued on page 14

SWEET PEET Washed Gravel royaltonsupply@hotmail.com Sand & Boulders www.royaltonsupply.com Organic Fertilizer Decorative Stone Contact Jayson Koch Natural Stone Palletized After 15Mulch successful years we are retiring. Groundscape Rubber Approximately 10 Acres of Mix Use property with rental income in a high-traffic area. & Much More! Fax: (440) 582-5208 Call Jerry Koch at 440-572-1888 www.royaltonsupply.com

BUSINESS AND PROPERTY FOR SALE

440-582-5200

Royalton Supply.indd 1

I71

I - 71

Abbey Rd.

2 LOCATIONS TO S

Ohio Tu

Abbey Rd.

W. 130th

11528Royalton RoyaltonRoad Road 11528 North Royalton, OH North Royalton, OH44133 44133

NEW LOCA TI

rnpike

ly pp Suenter n C o e

lt ya scap Ro Land

Rt.Rt. 82 82 Owned & Operated The Koch Family 8/18/2015 12:19:45 PM

The Growing Concern x September 2015 x 13

FISCAL FITNESS continued from pg 12 Work interruptions have significant financial consequences. For instance, women’s contributions to Social Security cease when unemployed, ultimately reducing the Social Security benefit when they retire. According to the Social Security Administration, the average Social Security benefit check for women is $1,103 per month compared to $1,417 for men. Yet, another challenge is that women tend to be more conservative investors then men. A 2004 study called the “Financial Gender Gap” found that women have a lower risk tolerance, and therefore, tend to be more conservative with their investments. Although, there is a place for conservative investments in most portfolios, investing too conservatively can lead to decreased savings and diminished retirement investments. Here are some financial tips specifically geared toward women to help them better prepare for their retirement:

MAKE SAVING A PRIORITY Some women get sidetracked when balancing many financial obligations, caring first for their family, such as their children or aging parents. They should remember to focus on taking care of themselves and not let saving for their own retirement slide.

INVEST MORE Women should actually consider investing more than their male counterparts to account for their longer lifespan and smaller earnings. Women must take into consideration both their risk tolerance and time-horizon so they can invest appropriately toward their goals.

…many women will need to be prepared financially and emotionally for a retirement lasting, in some cases, over 30 years. especially if your company has a matching program. You may want to augment your 401(k) savings by contributing to an Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA). An IRA is also a good option if your company does not offer any retirement savings accounts.

SAVE, EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT WORKING If you have taken or are planning to take time off from work to raise kids or care for aging/ill family members, try to continue to save money in your IRA accounts. Married people filing jointly are able to make a deductible IRA contribution based on their earnings.

SEEK HELP Meet with a qualified financial advisor who can help you create a personalized financial plan which includes retirement savings and options designed specifically for your unique needs and challenges. Make sure periodic reviews are conducted on your portfolio. Talk with your financial advisor to review and rebalance when necessary.

CONTRIBUTE TO RETIREMENT PLANS If your employer provides a retirement savings plan, such as a 401(k), and you are eligible, do not delay signing up. Start as soon as you are eligible and contribute as much as you can,

14 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Michael J. Donnellan is President of King Financial, Inc., in Strongsville, Ohio specializing in stock selection and retirement planning. Feel free to contact him with any questions or comments. Phone number (440) 878-9676.

Quality Materials • Residential • Commercial • Competitive Prices

LAKESIDE SAND & GRAVEL Since 1954

ODOT Pre-Qualified Aggregate Supplier WASHED SAND & GRAVEL GRANITE AND SANDSTONE LANDSCAPING BOULDERS 12” TO 6’ DIAMETER Limestone Products Decorative Stone & Rock

Palletized Cobbles Fill Sand

Screened Topsoil Fill Dirt

DELIVERY AVAILABLE PHONE: 330-274-2569 • 3498 FROST ROAD, MANTUA, OH 44255 www.lakesidesandgravel.com Lakeside Half 0415.indd 1

Check us out on the web at www.davistreefarm.com

3/4/2015 9:33:30 AM

We Deliver!

6126 Neff Rd. Valley City, OH PH: 330-483-3324 Fax: 330-483-4483 The Growing Concern x September 2015 x 15

PLANT OF THE MONTH

JIM FUNAI, COLP, LIC Cuyahoga Community College

SHELLEY FUNAI, LIC Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

ACER PSEUDOPLATANUS

SYCAMORE MAPLE

The two of us just returned from another exciting trip to Central Europe where we did some tree research work and also took advantage of discovering plants across the region. One of the more exciting parts of the trip was hiking at about 10,000 feet in the Austrian Alps and discovering all of the blooming alpine flowers, including the famous Edelweiss! It is a neat experience to travel to a different part of the world and use your knowledge of plants to draw some conclusions about how their climate may differ from what we are used to here in Northeast Ohio. We spent the majority of our time near Brno, Czech Republic which is about an hour drive north of Vienna, Austria. There they experience a slightly milder winter and much less humidity in the summer. Looking at the Mountain-ash (Sorbus spp.), you can tell that a number of the diseases common to our Roseaceae plants are very insignificant in that climate. This is an important reminder of the plant health triangle, continued on page 18

16 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Chagrin Valley Nurseries, Inc. We Give the Earth with Every Plant complete line of quality nursery stock

Trees Shrubs Evergreens Perennials Mulch Topsoil Organics excellent service prompt order pickup delivery available (440) 423-3363 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: (440) 423-1113 sales@cvnursery.com â&#x20AC;˘ www.cvnursery.com

Kichler LED Half-2.indd 1

5/8/2015 The Growing Concern x September 20152:45:15 x 17PM

PLANT OF THE MONTH continued from pg 16 where a pest only can become an issue if the Host, Pest, and Climate are all present. In this case, the environment is the missing link and the pest does not become a major issue. The deciduous forests of the Czech Republic resemble ours upon first glance. Beech, Maple, and Oak are their climax species much like here. The species are different, but the similarities are fascinating. One species of Maple that is common to their forest and landscapes, but quite rare in use here in the states, is the Sycamore Maple, Acer pseudoplatanus. Pseudo, meaning false, is a common modifier used in botanical Latin to mean one plant resembles another in some form. As you should be able to surmise from the specific epithet (pseudoplatanus), someone felt the leaves of this plant resemble that of Sycamore (Platanus). Interestingly, Sycamore returns the homage in its botanical name, Platanus acerifolia (leaf like a Maple)! Perhaps, they do resemble each other in some respect, but we find each to be unique enough that there should be no confusion. One of the reasons we love this tree is the change in bark form from a young tree to a middle aged tree. Starting off as a fairly plain, smooth grey bark (like a young Red Maple), the bark begins to form dark grey blocky patches that peel off and reveal a much brighter reddish brown bark below. The texture effect of the bark is great and could be quite pleasing in the proper setting. This tree grows with ease in a number of situations, and has been used extensively in Central Europe for its urban tolerance as well as ability to withstand higher salt levels in the soil. We would not recommend the tree for a situation that puts it into heavy drought stress repeatedly, but must admit that nearly all of the trees we encountered on our trip looked quite well despite this being the biggest drought in over 20 years in the Czech Republic. Obtaining a height and spread in the range of 40 to 60 feet makes this more of a shade tree and should not be placed near overhead restrictions such as power lines. We feel this tree is best used as a member of a diverse urban forest mainly as a large street tree. There are concerns of heavy reseeding which leads people to call it invasive. Perhaps that term is misapplied. It behaves like a maple with a heavy crop of helicopters (samaras), and they can reseed; so do all of our native Maples. Should you go planting one in the middle of the National Park? No! Should it be considered as a viable addition to the urban forest? Yes! These are different situations which require different solutions. People will yell at you about Norway Maple as well (Acer platanoides), as being invasive, but we feel it still has an important role to play in the urban forest. We need to understand

18 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

that our urban forest needs to have diversity of species if it is to survive. We must stop planting the same species down an entire street. Every urban street should have a large mix of species if it is to survive the extreme environments, inundation of pests (foreign and domestic), and constant abuse they receive. One of the projects we have worked on while in the Czech Republic is measuring the stability of urban trees and other high value trees. We have included a picture that Shelley took showing Jim and our research advisor, Jarek, performing a sonic tomography test on an Acer pseudoplatanus. This particular tree is used by a company as an anchor for a zip line and had concerns about its stability and strength. The test we performed uses a prescribed number of acoustic sensors inserted into the outer xylem of the tree at a specific height. We then hit each sensor to send a sound wave across the grain of the tree where it is then received by the other sensors. By precisely measuring the time it takes the sound wave to reach each sensor, we can calculate an approximate density of the xylem wood. Fast travel indicates healthy wood, slow to no travel indicates varying levels of decay. As you perform this test at different heights up the base of the trunk, we can develop a picture of the stability of the treeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wood. This test is not the only available method for measuring stability, and should be used as part of a comprehensive analysis of the tree. We are excited about the prospect that we ALL have the ability to improve our environment by planting a more diverse landscape and taking better care of the plants that exist. Instead of having a knee jerk reaction to cut a questionable tree down, consider using a certified arborist that is qualified in tree risk assessment to help determine how you may be able to stabilize and reduce risks without complete removal. We encourage you to think about increasing the diversity of your plantings to help us all improve our environment and increase the survivability of our species and all others! As always, we are open to your thoughts and ideas and encourage you to share them with us. Happy planting!

Jim Funai is full-time faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, a NALP accredited associate of applied science in horticulture degree program offering many paths to higher education in the green industry. He is pursuing a PhD in Landscape Engineering and Forestry and is a Licensed Arborist. Shelley Funai is Grounds Manager at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio that offers a historic estate designed by Warren H. Manning and a beautiful manor house museum. She is Landscape Industry Certified in Ornamental Plant Care. Both are graduates of The Ohio State University. Contact Jim and Shelley via email at hortsquad@gmail.com.

your

par ner

for

success The OLA helps its members take their business to the next level with its educational programs and seminars, networking opportunities, and with the determination to increase public awareness of the professionalism of the green industry. Submit your OLA membership application today and

instantly SAVE $50 off your initial membership dues! visit ohiolandscapers.org to complete the membership application online and learn about the additional ways the

ola will help your business grow and save you money!

CONGRATULATIONS

to the

WINNING TEAMS

15th Annual

OLA Scholarship Golf Classic

Matt Angelotta Angelotta Landscapes Anthony Angelotta Angelotta Landscapes Nick Fiore Fiore Group Mike Adie Progressive Insurance

Jim Schill Schill Grounds Management Fred Breeden Schill Grounds Management Rick Izold Schill Grounds Management Britt Stantz Schill Grounds Management

Matt Bendula CUI Services Bryan Gray CUI Services Carl Rolla CUI Services Nick Holmes CUI Services

Dinner Sponsor

Thank You Sponsors

MAJOR AND CONTEST

Lunch Sponsor

Commemorative Gift Sponsor

Ball Drop Sponsor

TEE SPONSORS Advanced Turf Solutions Arms Trucking Co. Boyas Excavating, Inc. Cahoon Nursery & Garden Center CareWorksComp (2 Tees) CDL-Training Consultants (2 Tees) Coblentz Brothers, Inc. Empaco Equipment Corporation Gooey Promotions Gravely Commercial Mowers Green Valley Seed J.F.D. Landscapes, Inc. Kris Krems

Kurtz Bros, Inc. Leppo Rents Oliger Seed Co. Rain Bird Corporation (2 Tees) Smith Bros., Inc. T & S Mower Three-Z Supply Tim Kline Nursery Sales Truck Equipment Sales Turfscape, Inc. Vizmeg Landscape, Inc. Yard Works, Inc. (2 Tees)

DOOR PRIZE DONORS Advanced Turf Solutions AM Leonard Ariens Company Brian-Kyles Landscapes of Distinction Buyers Products Cleveland Magazine Emmett Equipment Company Ginoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Awards GM-General Motors Corporation

Beverage Cart Sponsors

Mallard Creek Golf Club Mill Creek Gardens Ohio CAT Ohio Landscape Association Vizmeg Landscape Zoresco Equipment

Long Drive Contest Sponsor

Closest To The Pin Contest Sponsor

Cornhole Sponsor Trophies Sponsor

Driving Range Sponsor Continental Breakfast Sponsor

Hole-In-One Sponsor

Long Putt Contest Sponsor

PERENNIAL FOCUS

BOBBIE SCHWARTZ, FAPLD Bobbie’s Green Thumb

Liriope muscari ‘Variegata’

LIRIOPE

LILY-TURF

Groundcovers are a problematic category. On the one hand, we want a plant that will spread and, obviously, cover the ground. On the other hand, we do not want a plant that will cover the ground so aggressively that it starts to invade its neighbors. Most of the time what we really want is a plant that will spread at a moderate pace and be easy to control. Now that pre-election mania has begun, I present Liriope muscari to you as a leading candidate. This Lily-Turf is a clumper; be aware that Liriope spicata is a creeper (more later). Strappy, evergreen, twelve inch leaves form an attractive mound when not buried in snow. In August, a lavender spiky flower emerges in the center, bringing a lovely haze to what is otherwise a dull space. If the foliage becomes ragged during the winter, you can mow it in early spring before the new foliage emerges. There are several cultivars in varying shades of lavender and purple as well as white, and there are also some with variegated foliage. ‘Variegata’ is the most commonly available of these, has creamy white edges, and blooms a continued on page 24

22 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

When you are searching for a groundcover that will thrive in dry shade and compete with old tree roots, Liriope spicata is the answer to your prayers.

Your Complete Tree Care Specialists vanc urentreecare.com Complete Tree Maintenance Programs phone:

(440) 338-5005 fax:

(440) 564-9319

Certified Arborists on Staff Tree Removal Tree Trimming Land Clearing 168â&#x20AC;&#x2122; 35 Ton Crane

sales representatives: Michael Sowul James DiRosa, Certified Arborist David R. Van Curen

75â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Bucket Trucks Deep Root Fertilization 24-Hour Emergency Service Stump Grinding

www.vancurentreecare.com

Van Curen Half 0514.indd 1

Tree Moving

free estimates

fully insured

4/21/2014 4:56:53 PM

The Growing Concern x September 2015 x 23

PERENNIAL FOCUS continued from pg 22 few weeks later than the green varieties. Since it does not have as much chlorophyll as the green cultivars, it does not spread as rapidly. I find that it looks best in partial shade where it adds an element of light. Plant geek that I am, I have tried some of the lesser known cultivars such as ‘Okina’ with its mostly white leaves and ‘Peedee Ingot’ with chartreuse leaves. I found both to be weak growers. When you are searching for a groundcover that will thrive in dry shade and compete with old tree roots, Liriope spicata is the answer to your prayers. I used to have a huge, old Hawthorn under which nothing would grow until I planted a few divisions of this Lily-Turf. It spread very quickly and then my problem was keeping it out of everything else. The foliage is narrower than that of Liriope muscari. There is a cultivar called ‘Silver Dragon’ that has white edges.

Happily, Liriope is not fussy about soil, asking only that drainage be decent. It will grow in full sun to heavy shade; although it will not spread as quickly in heavy shade. It does not meet the deer taste test so they leave it alone. If you want a groundcover that will spread relatively quickly but not too quickly, be sure to use Liriope in your designs.

Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, owner of Bobbie’s Green Thumb in Shaker Hts., Ohio, is a landscape designer, consultant, free-lance writer, and lecturer whose specialties are perennial gardens and four-season landscapes. In addition to being an Ohio Landscape Association (OLA) member, she is an active member of the Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association (ONLA) and Perennial Plant Association (PPA). Bobbie is a Past President of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD). Bobbie currently serves as chair of the ONLA Plant Selection Committee. Bobbie can be reached at (216) 752-9449.

Liriope ‘Royal Purple’

24 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Equipment Corporation

YOUR CENTER FOR

PATIO BUILDING

MATERIALS >

Natural Stone

> Bulk Aggregates > Quick & On-Time

Delivery

Servicing NE Ohio

2958 Brecksville, Rd Richfield, OH 44286

330.659.9393

Sales Manager: Greg Schrank SchrankG@EmpacoEquipment.com

DISTRIBUTOR

The Growing Concern x September 2015 x 25

OLA IS 50! Join us as We Celebrate the Past 50 Years while Anticipating our Bright Future. The Ohio Landscape Association welcomes you to a fun night filled with good cheer, good friends and good food. Bring your co-workers, significant other, or reward your staff by offering a night out on the boss! This is one of those once in a lifetime events you will not want to miss. Don’t forget to don your dancing shoes, because the band Nightbridge will be performing live. There will be appetizers, dinner, an open bar, games, prizes and plenty of elbow room to...you know...rub elbows. Guest rooms are available if you would like to continue celebrating past midnight or have to travel a distance to attend. Space is limited so reserve your spot soon!

September 19, 2015 Embassy Suites • Independence, Ohio Cocktail Reception 6pm Dinner 7pm Music and Dancing 8pm Tickets $50 per person • $375 table of eight • $460 table of ten overnight guest rooms are available

THANK YOU SPONSORS COCKTAIL RECEPTION The DiSanto Companies PHOTO BOOTH Lake County Nursery BAND Rusty Oak Nursery CENTERPIECES /CHALLENGE Botson Insurance Group PARTY FAVORS, GAMES & PRIZES Cascade Lighting Grace Brothers Lawn & Landscape Magazine Suncrest Gardens

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE Dinner .............................................$5000 or 2 co-sponsors at .............................$2500 each or 4 co-sponsors at .............................$1250 each

Open Bar ........................................$4000 or 2 co-sponsors at .............................$2000 each or 4 co-sponsors at .............................$1000 each

Party Favors, Games & Prizes Call us to discuss details.

Sponsors are needed Sponsors will enjoy: • Signage at the Event • Company name mentioned at the Event • Thank you in the Growing Concern • Logo included in ad, emails, and signage Find out how you can participate by contributing to this wonderful celebration through sponsorship by calling the OLA office at 440 -717- 0002.

When To Say In order to Benefit Your Green Industry Business

BY DAVID CRARY, HINDSITE SOFTWARE Saying no is important to the efficiency and the function of your business, but how do you decide when to say it? As a green industry business owner especially, saying no is a requirement. If it’s difficult for you, you’ve got a lot to learn my friend. It can be especially hard in the business world to say no because the first instinct can often be to say yes, to do whatever the customer says. After all, isn’t the customer always right? Yes and no. Following are some ways to help you figure out the right times to say no. continued on page 30

28 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

PUT A

LOCK

ON THAT NEXT JOB. Give yourself an edge the next time you quote a landscaping project. Give yourself the Unilock® advantage. As the leader in the industry, Unilock’s distinctive products will grab your client’s attention and never let go, with leading edge designs that will help you blow the competition away.

UMBRIANO®

Large and dramatic, creating clean lines and a bold style. ColorFusion™ technology creates a unique mottled finish for the look of natural granite.

Recommend Umbriano® as part of your next project bid to stand apart from the competition and lock up the job. For sizes, colors and other details or to connect with a Unilock Territory Manager, please visit Unilock.com

UMBRIANO® (SUMMER WHEAT) WITH BELPASSO® (CASTANO) AND SERIES 3000® (BLACK GRANITE) ACCENTS.

continued from pg 28 IF A CUSTOMER JUST ISN’T THE RIGHT FIT. Any business person will tell you, and I’m no exception, that a satisfied customer means repeat business, referrals and a great reputation for your business. That’s why we all say customer satisfaction comes first. Still, there are times when you have to turn a customer down. Though it’s the exception, rather than the rule, it does happen. And that’s okay. There can be a variety of reasons that make a customer an awkward fit. It could be that they are too far away. It could also be that their needs do not match the resources of your business. In the service industry, there are an abundance of things to take into consideration before taking on another customer. Here are four things not to overlook when considering a new customer:

1. WHEN YOUR RESOURCES ARE STRAINED. Are you stretching your resources thin or not utilizing all your equipment? Look into your inventory and decide where you are on that spectrum. Sometimes, especially when you first start your business, your resources are strained. Say you own a lawn mowing service. You own five mowers and have five employees running the machines. You’re booked solid for the month ahead. Then you get a call from the manager of landscaping at a local university saying he’s got a machine down and could you send someone over tomorrow afternoon to cut lawn. You know the university generally does its own mowing and rarely hires contractors. Clearly, it would make no sense to use your credit card to buy another mower just to help the university out, especially when you are certain you won’t be getting any repeat business from this customer on a regular basis. No, this is one time when you have to turn the customer down.

2. WHEN YOUR EFFICIENCY WILL SUFFER. Of course, in the foregoing scenario, you might consider shuffling some work around to fit the university into your schedule. Perhaps customer X, scheduled for the end of the month, wouldn’t mind if you push his/her lawn cutting into the first week of the following month. No, no. Don’t even consider going there. You need to provide outstanding service to the customers who are scheduled and counting on you to be there for them. Again, you have no alternative but to turn the university down.

30 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

3. WHEN THE CUSTOMER IS FAR FROM YOUR SERVICE AREA. If you are a snow company; for instance, how much driving will be required to reach this customer? Are they surrounded by current customers? Or let’s say the previously mentioned university is located in a community located 60 miles from your business, but your service area extends only to the large community in which your business is located. Given the cost of gasoline, it wouldn’t be profitable to make an exception to your business plan and transport your mower 60 miles down the road for a one-time gig. If a customer is too far out of the range of technicians, they may cost you more than you’d profit from them. Again, it’s a situation that calls for you to turn the customer down.

4. WHEN THE CUSTOMER DOESN’T FIT YOUR TARGET CUSTOMER. I don’t mean to pick on universities! Clearly, you might need to turn down any type of customer for the foregoing reasons, or sometimes just because the business or organization contacting your green industry business doesn’t fit your target customer. Perhaps you are an irrigation business providing service to suburban homes. You aren’t equipped to do business with the agricultural sector. So when a customer from that sector comes calling, you have no option but to turn the customer down. As you can see, there are times when even though you’d love to take on more business, it just isn’t in your best interest to do so. Stay the course. Focus on the customer base that fits your target market and you will be capable of providing excellent service every time you do business with them. By developing a reputation as an expert in your field, you’ll draw even more business to you that fits your target market.

When you have adequate resources, find customers that fit, and can be efficient, you will have happy customers who are satisfied with your work. They’ll contract with you again and again and refer you to their friends and associates. This is the way to build a profitable green industry business and a great reputation.

IF A CUSTOMER FAILS TO PAY. If a customer fails to pay, you need to make sure you lay the foundation for a solid relationship. Tell them that you value them as a customer, but you cannot continue to do business with them until they pay you for your work. If you don’t, it could become a “habit” for this customer to just not pay up. If you are honest and fair with your customers, I can almost bet your customers will be honest and fair with you.

IF YOUR BUSINESS CAN’T HANDLE MORE CUSTOMERS. If your business can’t handle more customers, have the strength to turn new ones away until you can provide more resources and staff. I know it can be tough turning down customers because in the moment all you can think about is customers equaling profit. However, if you don’t have the resources to provide excellent service, aren’t you doing more harm to your business than good anyways? Be patient and honest. Let your customers know that you wish you could take them on, but you would be doing a disservice to them if you agreed to help them out at this time. Keep a list and let them know that you will contact them when you can take them on.

IF A SOFTWARE DOESN’T COINCIDE WITH YOUR ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE. If your software does not match up and correlate then it pretty much defeats the purpose of having software at all. Make sure you get a software that goes with your accounting software. If you don’t, you’re going to end up with a lot more headaches down the road than you bargained for. Not only will it help you be organized, but it will also help you be more efficient. You will have all of your electronic paperwork in one place. What a beautiful thing. For example, HindSite works with QuickBooks and Sage50. We have customers who use other accounting software and we are happy to help, but sometimes it causes more headaches than they’d like.

IF AN EMPLOYEE ASKS FOR A LOAN. To me, this is just treading in dangerous waters. If an employee ever asked me for a loan I’m sure I would be tempted to say yes. I, like most people, care about my employees. However, caring about your employees does not justify giving out loans to them. Advise them and counsel them. Help them in whatever way you possibly can. Heck, you can even drive them to the bank so they can apply for a loan there. BUT, please say no when an employee asks you for a loan, it will become extremely complicated extremely fast.

Remember, it’s ok to say no. The efficiency and the functionality of your business depends on it. Knowing when to walk away could be the best next step you take.

David Crary owns HindSite Software in St. Paul, Minnesota. For ten years, his irrigation business struggled with paper work orders and timesheet management, killing his growth. After years of pulling out his hair, he decided to invest in a technology solution. It worked so well at solving his paperwork problems and growing his business that he decided to sell it to other service businesses facing similar issues - and HindSite was born. For more information on HindSite visit hindsitesoftware.com or call 888-271-4076.

The Growing Concern x September 2015 x 31

Ohio's most prestigious landscape enhancement awards program. Winning projects will be featured in the Spring/Summer 2016 Landscape Ohio! Magazine â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a supplement to Ohio Magazine and Cleveland Magazine. Entrants will be invited to join us in March 2016 for a dinner and awards presentation.

9240 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, OH 44147 Phone: 440-717-0002 Toll Free: 1-800-335-6521 Fax: 440-717-0004 OhioLandscapers.org MyOhioLandscape.com

dEadLinE TO EnTER dEcEMBER 11, 2015 Rules, Regulations, and Entry Forms Available Now.

New/Used Commercial & Construction Equipment

Ohio grown proudly for over 50 years!

Parts and Service

Mineral & Peat Grown Sod Blue Grass Blend Improved Tall Fescue Fine Leaf Fescue Blue Grass Mix Bark Mulch Ties Shredded Topsoil, Peat, and Custom Blending

Now With 7 Locations To Serve You!

wooster

mansfield

mt vernon

330-345-9023

419-529-6160

740-392-6160

monroeville

copley

burbank

419-465-4622

330-666-8400

330-948-7437

north royalton 440-237-4806

www.ShearerEquipment.com Shearer Qtr 0315.indd 1

Introducing....

1-800-683-1686 www.medinasodfarms.com

5/14/2015 11:31:24 AM

Porcelain Pavers Belgard’s exciting new line of outdoor porcelain pavers offers authentic porcelain tile manufactured in Italy by Mirage for commercial and residential use

Outdoor porcelain pavers are frost-resistant, skid-resistant, durable and easy to clean, creating the perfect solution for gardens, terraces and high traffic outdoor areas. Outdoor porcelain pavers can be easily dry laid onto grass, gravel, dirt and sand – or onto terraces and roofs using raised supports – without grout or adhesives!

Mason Steel 7500 Northfield Road • Walton Hills, OH 44146

Your Outdoor Living Headquarters (440) 439-1040

www.masonsteel.com

The Growing Concern x September 2015 x 33

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

SUCCESSFUL PLANT COMBINATIONS September 23, 2015

Presented by

9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Instructed by Kathy Stokes-Shafer, APLD Held at Klyn Nurseries