Growing Concern
The
JU N E 2 0 2 2
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
25th Annual Landscape Ohio! Awards Gala June 16, 2022 / Windows on the River
22nd Annual Scholarship Golf Classic August 4, 2022 / Mallard Creek Golf Course / PAGE 16
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PR ES I DEN T’S COLUM N
BRIAN MAURER, LIC Brian-Kyles
SNOW. YEAH, I SAID IT. I am beginning to feel a lot like Bill Murray in Groundhog Day. Just as I feel like I finished writing an article and think I have some time to set aside I get reminded that the next article is just around the corner. Then again, my entire life feels like Groundhog Day at this point. Nonetheless, I must remind myself that I am not living the reoccurring saga that Bill Murray was, but what I am living is a lack of planning and time management. For those who need a reminder, it’s June ‒ the middle of the fiscal year and one-third of the way through our green season ‒ and four months from now snow & ice season will commence. Yep, I just went there…
The pain of allocating equipment, finding anyone with a pulse, or let alone receiving almost an entire year’s snowfall in six weeks will become a reality soon. For those whose blood pressure just rose, just remember what you told yourself last year during those painful endeavors. While I may not have experienced the exact same pains as you, if you want to get ahead of the curve, then it’s time to begin thinking about how to find solutions to your problems. I’m going to focus on the big three: labor, equipment, and fuel. Each plays a vital part in the cost of providing a service, and if not balanced, will affect your gross margins, which inturn affects your reward for providing emergency services. continued on page 6 The Growing Concern | June 2022 | 3
TAB LE OF CON TEN TS J U N E 2 0 2 2 W WW. OH I OLA N D SCA P E R S. OR G OH I O’ S P R OF E SSI ON A L G REEN I N D U ST R Y A SSOCI AT I O N OHIO LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION 9240 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, Ohio 44147 Phone: 440.717.0002 Toll Free: 1.800.335.6521 Web: www.ohiolandscapers.org and www.myohiolandscape.com DESIGNER / EDITOR Rick Doll, Jr. REGULAR WRITERS Michael J. Donnellan, M3 Wealth Management Dr. Jim Funai, PhD., Cuyahoga Community College Shelley Funai, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Brian Maurer, LIC, BrianKyles Sandy Munley, Ohio Landscape Association Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, Bobbie’s Green Thumb Cover: Landscape Ohio! awards entry, in the category of Residential Installation, submitted by Landscapes by Terra.
FEATURES
3 8 12 22 26 30 36 38 39 39
PRESIDENT’S COLUMN
Snow. Yeah, I said It.
ADVERTISING INFORMATION Submission deadline: 10th of the month, prior to the month of magazine publication. For advertising rates and ad specs, please call 440.717.0002, or email Rick Doll Jr. at rick@ohiolandscapers.org.
FOR SAFETY SAKE
DISCLAIMER The Ohio Landscape Association, its board of directors, staff and the editor of The Growing Concern neither endorse any product(s) or attests 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.
PLANT OF THE MONTH
OFFICERS President Brian Maurer, LIC
OLA STAFF Executive Director Sandy Munley
FEATURE ARTICLE
President – Elect Stephanie Gray, LIC
Communications & Events Manager Rick Doll, Jr.
PERENNIAL FOCUS
Schizachyrium scoparium & Cultivars: Little Bluestem
FISCAL FITNESS
Stock Splits
Skid Steer Safety: Is Your Training Program Effective? Great Western Plant Explorers: Sir William Hooker 5 Ways You’re Making Your Labor Problem Worse
FEATURE ARTICLE
Bad Google Review? 7 Tips on How to Handle It
DIRECTIONS
Summer is Upon Us
NEW MEMBERS ADVERTISING INDEX
4 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
Treasurer Cameron Maneri Immediate Past President James Funai, PhD DIRECTORS Brandon Barker Ryan Drake Tina Graver Rob Morel Jeff Rupp, LIC Kate Stone, OCNT
C AL ENDAR OF EVEN TS 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 & E V E N T S
JUNE
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
JUNE 16, 2022 25th ANNUAL AWARDS GALA
AUGUST 4, 2022 OLA SCHOLARSHIP GOLF CLASSIC
SEPTEMBER 13, 2022 YOUNG PROFESSIONALS MEET-UP
Join Ohio’s landscape community for an evening out as we reveal the 2021 Landscape Ohio! Award winners. This is a great opportunity for those of you who have been contemplating entering, or for those of you just looking to spend an elegant night out with industry leaders as we celebrate our industry!
Join us at Mallard Creek Golf Club for the OLA Scholarship Golf Classic! Our golf outing was created to help generate funding for our scholarship program, targeting qualified students interested in a vocation within the green profession. Call the OLA at 440.717.0002 for available sponsorship opportunities. See pages 16 & 17 for more details.
The OLA’s Young Professionals in Landscape Group was created to provide a platform to connect, share experiences, and exchange ideas with peers in our industry. If you are under 40 years old, you are invited to join. Register to attend at ohiolandscapers. org/meetings.
JULY
AUGUST 9, 2022 WOMEN IN LANDSCAPE MEET-UP
JULY 12, 2022 PLANT I.D. CLINIC (Central Ohio) This clinic is a hands-on training opportunity for you and your crews covering the basics of Plant I.D. for plants typically used in Ohio. Sponsored by Premier Plant Solutions. See page 20 for more details.
OLA’s Women in Landscaping Group was created for the purposes of connecting, empowering, and advocating for women in the landscape industry, while amplifying the voices of our current & future women leaders. Register to attend at ohiolandscapers. org/meetings.
JULY 14, 2022 PLANT I.D. CLINIC (N.E. Ohio)
AUGUST 25, 2022 SNOW & ICE MANAGEMENT CLINIC
This clinic is a hands-on training opportunity for you and your crews covering the basics of Plant I.D. for plants typically used in Ohio. Sponsored by Davis Tree Farm & Nursery. See page 20 for more details.
This year’s Snow & Ice Managment Clinic will focus on Best Plowing Practices, Mechanical Removal, Calibration of Anti-Icing agents and Salt Tracking Technology. Vendors may call the OLA at 440.717.0002 for available booth/sponsorship opportunities in our mini-trade show exhibit. See page 18 & 19 for more details.
JULY 19, 2022 YOUNG PROFESSIONALS MEET-UP The OLA’s Young Professionals in Landscape Group was created to provide a platform to connect, share experiences, and exchange ideas with peers in our industry. If you are under 40 years old, you are invited to join. Register to attend at ohiolandscapers. org/meetings.
SEPTEMBER 14 , 2022 NE OHIO FACILITY TOUR (J. Barker Landscaping Company) Award winning designs and project implementation provide clients with expertly crafted, functional landscapes at J. Barker Landscaping Company. They provide unparalleled attention to detail in their landscape design process and their dedicated, experienced staff bring superior service and “know how” to all projects. Join us as we tour J. Barker’s facility, located in Bedford, Ohio, to find out what has made them so successful for over 45 years. Registration opens in July of 2022.
COMING THIS FALL/WINTER OCTOBER - PLANT HEALTHCARE DAY - CENTRAL OHIO FACILITY TOUR (Environmental Management Inc.) - WOMEN IN LANDSCAPE MEET-UP NOVEMBER - OLA ANNUAL MEETING (Halstead Media/Recruiting) DECEMBER - DORMANT PRUNING - AND MORE...
The Growing Concern | June 2022 | 5
PR ES I DEN T’S COLUM N continued from page 3 Labor has been an issue since the beginning of time and it’s not just a snow and ice issue, it is a global issue. With an already short supply of laborers ‒ as an industry ‒ snow and ice providers inevitably look elsewhere. Other trades, such as roofing, concrete, and construction, have long been looked to as solutions to our problem. In fact, our industry has become overreliant on other trades who are looking to keep valuable employees and equipment busy during the slower winter months. That said, the impacts of the Great Resignation exposed our short-term solution in 2021. The second major issue that plagued the industry last winter was the lack of available equipment. As an industry, finding available equipment for winter rentals has always been a challenge. The complication that COVID played to the supply chain magnified this issue to the point that even some of the most prepared snow and ice providers were caught off guard. What once was our solution to combating a labor shortage now became an issue to further complicate the situation. Moving onto the third issue: fuel. Fuel began its upward tick in pricing just as our winter season commenced. While it wasn’t as bad as what we’re experiencing now, it was bad
enough to have an impact on our financial outlook and doesn’t look to be getting better. First labor, then equipment, now fuel. It’s literally a contractor’s worst nightmare. As an association, our job is to help the landscape professional navigate these uncertainties. Over the last few years, the OLA has revamped its snow and ice management clinic to help those with the desire to be better. The focus on classroom sessions designed to educate us on how to become more efficient, best practices, how to use less salt yet achieve more desirable results, and questions on capacity are all topics that we’re now covering ‒ in depth. We have added outdoor sessions, as well, to showcase new equipment and how it can improve our efficiencies, improve the conditions we subject our workforce to, and how sometimes ‒ less is more. The pain endured last winter should not be the same pain endured this winter. It’s June and I’m asking you to save the date, August 25, 2022. Come join us and other industry professionals at our annual Snow & Ice Clinic, as nothing is more powerful than when we all come together for the betterment of the industry. Just remember, if you begin to make the changes necessary now, the pain experienced last year could be a distant memory.
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6 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
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PEREN N I AL FOCUS
BOBBIE SCHWARTZ, FAPLD Bobbie’s Green Thumb
A mass planting of Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Standing Ovation’ in the Des Moines Botanical Garden xeriscape.
SCHIZACHYRIUM SCOPARIUM & CULTIVARS LITTLE BLUESTEM There is a never-ending search for tough, drought tolerant plants. Many ornamental grasses fit into this category, especially those native to our prairies. Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass) is probably the best known, but now that the Perennial Plant Association has chosen Schizachyrium scoparium and cultivars as its 2022 Plant of the Year, it is time to add this grass to the tough, drought tolerant category. Little Bluestem is a dependable clumping grass that blends well with perennials such as asters, sedums, coneflowers, and other grasses. Native grasses play their part in the pollinator
8 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
story too. Little Bluestem is a larval host for a variety of butterflies and moths such as Crossline Skipper, Dakota Skipper, and Ottoe Skipper. Native to a broad swath of North America, it was one of the dominant grasses of the vast tallgrass prairies. In average to lean, well-drained soils, stems will remain upright but can flop easily if conditions are too rich or moist. Cultivars have been selected for shorter plants, enhanced leaf colors, and stronger stems, but I want to emphasize that very wellcontinued on page 10 drained soils are crucial.
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PEREN N I AL FOCUS The coppery fall and winter foliage of Schizachyrium scoparium is seen here .
continued from page 8 Summer through fall, the slender leaves and stems of Schizachyrium scoparium are an ever-changing kaleidoscope of gray-green, blue, pink, purple, copper, mahogany, red, and orange tones. Wispy silver-white seed heads sparkle in autumn sunlight and coppery brown leaves persist through winter. I remember quite well when a friend designed a low maintenance, drought tolerant slope garden for a church. It was absolutely spectacular during the winter with its coppery foliage. Little bluestem’s spikiness complements native and nonnative perennials alike. An easy fit for mass plantings or meadows, it is just as brilliant in traditional borders, gravel gardens, and green roofs. Perfect partners are recent PPOYs such as Calamintha nepeta ssp. nepeta, Asclepias tuberosa, Stachys ‘Hummelo’, and Allium ‘Millenium’. There are several cultivars now, varying in height and adaptability. Therefore, PPA asked some of its board members to pick the best performers for their regions. For those of us in the Great Lakes region, Patti Steinhauser of Stonehouse Nursery in Michigan chose Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Carousel’, a short cultivar that is usually grows 30” x 30”. She says: “This uniquely mounded selection forms a wide clump of
blue-green foliage that emerges nearly horizontal and matures into strong, upright stems that remain standing through inclement weather and winter. It takes on pink, copper and orange-red tones in fall topped with tiny seed tufts.” “The striking silvery blue leaves of Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Jazz’ are most comparable to ‘The Blues,’ but at 36 inches tall and 30 inches wide, ‘Jazz’ is a foot shorter than ‘The Blues’ and has sturdier stems. ‘Jazz’ was upright at all times including winter during the Chicago Botanic Garden’s trial, whereas ‘The Blues’ usually flopped early in the summer. The late-season silvery seed heads are followed by a strong purple to deep bronze fall color. ‘Jazz’ was introduced by Brent Horvath at Intrinsic Perennial Gardens in Illinois.”Ovation’ in the Des Moines Botanical Garden xeriscape. Although Shannon Currey of Hoffman Nursery is from North Carolina, I thought you should know that she prizes ‘Standing Ovation’ because it doesn’t flop when placed in fertile or irrigated sites, a big plus for those wanting a tidier look. This cultivar is usually 3’ tall but 4’ in bloom. Give this grass with four seasons of interest a try.
Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, owner of Bobbie’s Green Thumb in Shaker Hts., Ohio, is a landscape designer, consultant, freelance 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).
10 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
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The Growing Concern | September 2021 | 23 The Growing Concern | June 2022 | 11
F I SCAL FI TN ESS
MICHAEL J. DONNELLAN M3 Wealth Management
STOCK SPLITS Keeping track of stock splits can help investors gauge both future performance of individual stocks and the market as a whole. Many splits, either in a given stock or the market, is an indication that prices have moved significantly higher and may be reaching a top. The logic is simple and often boils down to a matter of supply and demand. If a company splits its stock 2-for-1, shareholders end up with twice as many shares valued at half the price. For example, if a company has 30 million shares valued at $100 a piece, a 2-for-1 split will result in 60 million shares priced at $50. Split 3-for-1 and there will be 90 million shares valued at $33.33 each. A stock split, or stock divide, increases the number of shares in a public company. The price is adjusted such that the before and after market capitalization of the company remains the same and dilution does not occur. Theoretically a stock split is a non-event. The fraction of the company that each share represents is reduced, but each stockholder is given enough shares so that his or her total fraction of the company owned remains the same. On the day of the split, the value of the stock is also adjusted so that the total capitalization of the company remains the same. Would you rather have a $10 bill (before split) or two $5 bills (after split)?
12 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
A powerful stock can easily withstand several splits over the course of several years. But if the trend continues and intensifies, the new supply of stock may begin to outstrip demand, especially if earnings begin to slow. Why do companies go through the hassle and expense of a stock split? A company often decides on a split when the stock price is quite high, making it expensive for individual investors. Also, the higher number of shares outstanding can result in greater liquidity for the stock, which facilitates trading, making it easier for buyers and sellers. While a split, in theory, should have no effect on a stock’s price, it often results in renewed investor interest, which can have a positive effect on the stock price. While this effect may wane over time, stock splits by blue-chip companies can be a continued on page 14 bullish signal for investors.
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F ISCAL FI TN ESS continued from page 12
Many of the best companies routinely see their share price return to levels at which they previously split the stock, leading to another stock split. Walmart (see chart below) split its stock 11 times on a 2-for-1 basis between the retailer’s stock-market debut in October 1970 and March 1999. An investor who bought 100 shares in Walmart’s Initial Public Offering (IPO) would have seen that stake grow to 204,800 shares over the next 30 years without any additional purchases.
Walmart 2:1 Stock Splits
Shares
Cost per Share
Initial Public Offering
100
$16.50
5/1/1971 3/1/1972 8/1/1975 11/1/1980 6/1/1982 6/1/1983 9/1/1985 6/1/1987 6/1/1990 2/1/1993 3/1/1999
200 400 800 1,600 3,200 6,400 12,800 25,600 51,200 102,400 204,800
$8.25 $4.1250 $2.0625 $1.0313 $0.5156 $0.2578 $0.1289 $0.0645 $0.0322 $0.0161 $0.0081
Market Price on Split Date
Distributed 10/1/70
$47.00 $47.50 $23.00 $50.00 $49.88 $81.63 $49.75 $66.63 $62.50 $63.63 $89.75
6/11/71 4/5/72 8/22/75 12/16/80 7/9/82 7/8/83 10/4/85 7/10/87 7/6/90 2/25/93 4/19/99
SOURCE: https://stock.walmart.com/investors/stock-information/ dividend-history/default.aspx
In August 2020, Apple split its shares 4-for-1. Right before the split, each share was trading at around $540. After the split, the price per share at the market open was $135 (approximately $540 ÷ 4). The same day Tesla split its shares 5-for-1 with the price at $2375 per share. After the split the price was approximately $475 ($2375 ÷ 5).
It stands to reason, then, that if a stock has undergone several splits within a relatively short period, it has moved rapidly higher and may have reached the end of its most spectacular capital appreciation. The same idea can be applied to the market as a whole. A high number of splits may indicate the entire market could be nearing a top. Other effects could be psychological. If many investors think that a stock split will result in an increased share price and therefore purchase the stock, the share price will tend to increase. Others contend that the management of a company, by initiating a stock split, is implicitly conveying its confidence in the future prospects of the company. Companies can also go through a reverse stock split, where the number of shares outstanding decreases while the price moves up. Generally, this occurs with low-priced stocks. For example, a stock trading at 75 cents could affect a 1-for-10 reverse stock split. That would raise the stock price to $7.50 per share and decrease the number of shares to 1/10th of the previous amount. Reverse stock splits are usually taken to avoid delisting from stock exchanges or to keep shares above a certain threshold. Those are usually not good circumstances for a publicly traded company. Use this indicator as just one of the many tools in your arsenal to help you and your financial professional select the right investments for your portfolio. Scenarios illustrated are hypothetical in nature, results may vary. Investing is subject to risk which may involve loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. The M3 Wealth Management Office does not provide legal or tax advice. Consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific situation. The information herein is general and educational in nature and should not be considered legal or tax advice.
If you owned 100 shares of Apple before the split, you would have had $54,000 worth of stock (100 shares x $540 per share). After the split you would still have $54,000 worth of stock (400 shares x $135 per share). So, you can see the total remains the same.
Michael J. Donnellan specializes in stock selection and retirement planning. Feel free to contact him with any questions or comments at the M3 Wealth Management office at 17601 W. 130th Street – Suite 1 in North Royalton, Ohio. Phone number (440) 652-6370 Email: donnellan@m3wealthmanagement.com
In most cases, companies split their stocks only after they have moved significantly higher. The idea is to lower the price to make them more attractive to individual investors.
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14 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
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REGISTRATION PL ANT GOLFER OF TH E M ON TH
August 4, 2022
Mallard Creek Golf Club Columbia Station, OH 4-person Scramble Shotgun start 9am
Each Golf Registration Includes: • • • •
18 Holes of Golf Golf Cart Game Day Contests Driving Range
• • • •
Continental Breakfast Lunch Dinner Beverages
22nd Annual OLA Scholarship Golf Classic 2022 OLA SCHOLARSHIP GOLF CLASSIC / REGISTRATION CLOSES 07/21/2022
(Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9240 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147)
Firm _______________________________________________________ Contact ____________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ City ________________________________________________________________________ State ___________ Zip _______________ Phone (______)____________________ Fax (______)____________________ Email ___________________________________________
NAME OF GOLFER (Correct Name is Mandatory or Forfeit Shall Occur)
COMPANY
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4
PAYMENT INFORMATION
Register Today!
...
On or Before July 14 - $125 per person After July 14 - $135 per person
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= $ ______
Don’t Golf? Join us for dinner!
...
$40 each
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____
X $40
= $ ______
Tee Sponsorship (includes signage)
...
$100
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= $ ______
TOTAL
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Charge to my:
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REGISTER, OR BECOME A SPONSOR OF THIS EVENT ONLINE AT OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG/GOLF-OUTING
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Thank You
TO OUR MAJOR AND CONTEST SPONSORS Sponsorship Opportunities We are excited to be holding our 22nd annual golf outing at Mallard Creek Golf Club on August 4, 2022. But, we need your help to make it a success! This event helps to generate funding for our scholarship program, targeting qualified students interested in a vocation within the green industry. Call us to find out more about sponsorship features and benefits. Tee Sponsorships
(Your company name will appear on a sign at your designated tee)
Door Prize(s) Please Specify: Item(s) will be: shipped to OLA
$100
dropped off at OLA
Cash Donation $ Let us shop for you!
We are currently looking for 1 or 2 sponsors to cover the costs associated with securing the use of a moblie scoring app. If you are interested in supporting this event and would like to hear more about this opportunity, please call the OLA office at 440.717.0002. Thank you!
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SN OW & ICE M A NAG E M E N T
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It’s Back! The OLA is happy to announce the return of our Annual Snow & Ice Management Clinic! Our Snow & Ice Management Clinic is a can’t miss event for anyone in, or thinking about being in the snow and ice business. Designed for both business owners and employees, the clinic will include group discussions and great information from snow and ice industry experts.
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BURNS OHIO EMAIL JCB THEOF OLA OFFICE INFO@ CLASSIC AUTO GROUP OHIOLANDSCAPERS. ORG KRYSTOWSKI TRACTOR VISIT US ONLINE AT: LEPPO RENTS/BOBCAT WWW.
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O’REILLY EQUIPMENT SIMA
SOUTHEASTERN EQUIPMENT VERMEER MIDATLANTIC WINTER EQUIPMENT
Sponsorship/Exhibit opportunities are available to ALL Green Industry suppliers, including non snow and ice related businesses. All Sponsorship/Exhibit opportunities include:
• • • • • •
Your choice of exhibit size. (Subject to availability. See below for more details.) Your company name displayed on signage at the event. Your company logo, linked to your company’s website, on all email communications promoting the event. Your company logo, linked to your company’s website, on the Snow & Ice Clinic landing page of our industry website. Your company will be recognized at the event and will have the opportunity to pass out marketing materials to attendees. A complimentary copy of the event attendee list, including attendee’s company name, contact person, mailing address & phone number. BOOTH/EXHIBIT SIZES
Booths will be sold on a first-come, first serve basis, once last year’s sponsors have had the opportunity to renew. Exhibitors may set up their booths beginning August 25 at 7:00am. and have until 8:15am to complete set-up. All exhibit spaces will be located outdoors on pavement and should be interactive for attendees. Booths will need to be vacated by 2:00pm.
OPTION #1 10 x 10 BOOTH OLA Member - $400 Non Member - $600
OPTION #2 20 x 30 BOOTH OLA Member - $500 Non Member - $700
OPTION #3 30x40 or 20x60 BOOTH OLA Member - $600 Non Member - $800
Includes: • 10 x 10 Exhibit Space • 2 Exhibitor passes • Breakfast and Lunch
Includes: • 20 x 30 Exhibit Space • 3 Exhibitor passes • Breakfast and Lunch
Includes: • 30 x 40 or 20 x 60 Exhibit Space • 3 Exhibitor passes • Breakfast and Lunch
PLEASE NOTE: 10 x 10 booths are for TABLETOP DISPLAYS ONLY. Absolutely no equipment will be permited in a 10 x 10 booth. 20 x 60 booths will be created by combining (2) 20 x 30 booths. The same can be done for extra 30 x 40 booths.
BOOTH SIZE REQUESTED
10x10 Outdoor Exhibit Space
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30x40 Outdoor Exhibit Space 20x60 Outdoor Exhibit Space
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Billing Address + Zipcode for Card SNOW & ICE MANAGEMENT CLINIC Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9240 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147 Register online, by mail, or by phone: Phone 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 • www.ohiolandscapers.org
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SNOW & I CE M A NAG E M E NT
R EG IS T R ATI O N SNOW BUSINESS SUCCESS
EVENT INFORMATION AUGUST 25, 2022 Whether you’re an owner, operations manager, laborer, or anyone in between, the OLA’s Annual 8:30AM - 3:45PM
Snow and Ice Mangement Clinic is a can’t miss event for any company focused on improving how they handle the “white side” of their business. This year’s focus will be on “How to do More with Less LOCATION ST. MICHAEL’S WOODSIDE Labor” & “Best Plowing Practices.”
5025 EAST MILL ROAD BROADVIEW HEIGHTS, OH In addition, we will be holding small group instruction covering: Salt Tracking Technology, Anti-Icing/ 44147 Liquid Calibration, Mechanical Removal and Sidewalk Removal.
AGENDA 8:30AM - 9:00AM REGISTRATION & BREAKFAST
GUEST SPEAKERS Phill Sexton, WIT Advisers Phil Sexton has 30+ years of experience developing and growing businesses in the Landscape, Winter and Facilities Management Industries. As a former technician, manager, executive & company owner, he’s developed a growing concern about the environmental impacts of his trade, and has developed best practices that enable companies to take a sustainable approach to winter management.
9:00AM - 12:00PM PRESENTATION & TRADE SHOW 12:00PM - 12:45PM LUNCH
Jordan Smith, Voigt Smith Innovation (VSI)
12:50PM- 1:55PM PRESENTATION
Jordan Smith has 15+ years of industry experience as Owner/President of Smith Lawn & Landscape and Owner of Voight Smith Innovations (VSI). VSI evolved out of the necessity to quit competing on price. Instead, they began to create equipment that would not only make their operations run smoother, but allowed them to help other contractors do the same.
2:00PM- 4:00PM SMALL GROUP INSTRUCTION
Also: Industry leaders from companies like Metal Pless, Artic Sectional, Hilltip & Ventrac will lead breakout groups focused on helping you find solutions to your labor, equipment, and fuel needs.
MINI TRADE SHOW
Visit industry vendors to see what’s new with displayed snow & ice equipment and products. Cancellations made 8 to 14 days prior to the course start date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds or credits will be issued for cancellations 7 days or less prior to the course, no shows, or cancellations on the day of the course. If, for any reason, the course is cancelled, enrollees will be notified, and fees refunded in full.
COST MEMBERS BEFORE 08/11/22 - $89 AFTER 08/11/22 - $119 NON MEMBERS BEFORE 08/11/22 - $139 AFTER 08/11/22 - $169
2022 SNOW & ICE CLINIC / REGISTRATION CLOSES 08/18/22
(Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9240 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147)
Company
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REGISTER ONLINE AT OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG/SNOW--ICE-CLINIC
OLA OLA EDUCATION SERIES SERIES PL ANT OF TH E M EDUCATION ON TH
Sponsored & Hosted by
COURSE INFO JULY 12, 2022 PREMIER PLANT SOLUTIONS 6981 SCIOTO DARBY RD, HILLIARD, OH 43026
PLANT I.D. CLINIC
JULY 14, 2022 DAVIS TREE FARM & NURSERY 6126 NEFF RD. VALLEY CITY, OHIO 44280
Those who should attend are plant installation staff, maintenance staff, garden center staff, foreman, and anyone studying to take the Landscape Industry Certified Technician’s Test.
AGENDA 8:30AM - 9:00AM REGISTRATION / BREAKFAST 9:00AM - 3:00 PM CLINIC LUNCH INCLUDED COST OLA MEMBERS BEFORE 06/28/22 - $89 AFTER 06/28/22 - $119 NON MEMBERS BEFORE 06/28/22 - $119 AFTER 06/28/22 - $149
This Plant ID Clinic is a hands-on training opportunity for you and your crews that will cover the basics of Plant ID for plants typically used in Ohio. Many of the plants that will be covered are on the plant list for the Landscape Industry Certified Technician’s Test, including: perennials, groundcovers, ornamental grasses, as well as trees and shrubs - both evergreen and deciduous.
GENERAL INFORMATION: This seminar is hands-on training with live plant material. Attendees will need their own notepad and pen, and will need to dress appropriately for outdoor practical training. PLEASE NOTE: This year’s clinic will be returning to the pre-Covid format of training where all 3 of the groups arrive at the same time, eat lunch at the same time and get to spend time with 3 different of instructors.
OUR 2021 INSTRUCTORS
Wendy Moore Davis Tree Farm
Marie McConnell Lake County Nursery
Robin Knaup Premier Plant Solutions
Jason Veil Secrest Arboretum
Jim Funai, Ph.D. Cuyahoga Community College
Staff Premier Plant Solutions
Cancellations made 8 to 14 days prior to the course start date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds or credits will be issued for cancellations 7 days or less prior to the course, no shows, or cancellations on the day of the course. If, for any reason, the course is cancelled, enrollees will be notified, and fees refunded in full. Register early as class size is limited and will sell out quickly.
2022 PLANT I.D. CLINIC / REGISTRATION CLOSES 07/05/22
(Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9240 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147)
Company
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July 12th, Hilliard, OH
July 14th, Valley City, OH
$
July 12th, Hilliard, OH
July 14th, Valley City, OH
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July 12th, Hilliard, OH
July 14th, Valley City, OH
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July 12th, Hilliard, OH
July 14th, Valley City, OH
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SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES REGISTER ONLINE AT SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES REGISTER ONLINE AT FOR THIS EVENT ARE STILL AVAILABLE. CALL FOR THIS EVENT ARE STILL AVAILABLE. CALL 440.717.0002 FOR MORE INFORMATION. OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG/EDUCATION 440.717.0002 FOR MORE INFORMATION. OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG/EDUCATION
4.5 CEU’S
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The Kipton Quarry is a 56 acre sandstone quarry located in north central Ohio. The open pit covers over 10 acres and provides access to a variety of unique sandstone formations. Recent geological studies indicate sandstone reserves of up to 400 million ton. This and other analyses allow customers to be confident that the Kipton Quarry will be providing Ohio sandstone to our customers for many years to come. The grey and buff stone mined from the quarry meet some of the most stringent quality requirements sought after.
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The Growing Concern | May 2022 | 15 KIPTONQUARRY.COM
F OR SAFETY SAK E
SKID STEER SAFETY IS YOUR TRAINING PROGRAM EFFECTIVE? Skid steer loaders are used in so many ways and in such varied locations; keeping operators and employees safe requires a plan and proper training. Whether a skid steer is used at a customer site, or within a landscaping company yard, operators must be trained, and the skid steer properly maintained. Transporting to a customer’s site, the 8000 lb. skid steer movement onto the trailer requires planning and training. For example, transporting a skid steer may include loading from flat surfaces, use of ratchet binders and an understanding on how to properly secure the load. While common activities for field crews may include delivering, positioning shrubs, digging post holes and moving hardscape, each different activity may utilize a specialized front-end attachment, each with associated hazards that operators must understand in order to avoid. When in use, each location may expose operator to vehicular traffic or have limited or tight spaces where proximity to a skid steer loader can create a struck-by hazard to those working nearby or in blind spots.
AN OSHA PERSPECTIVE FOR TRAINING OSHA’s review of manufacturer’s design criteria recognizes that skid steer loaders were intended primarily as earth moving equipment, so safety training requirements are covered within construction standard, 29 CFR 1926.21(b) (2), which states: The employer shall instruct each employee in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the regulations applicable to his [or her] work environment to control or eliminate any hazards or other exposure to illness or injury. So, the employer is required to train skid steer operators to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions. continued on page 24
22 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
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FOR SAFETY SAKE
continued from page 22 The training needs to be comprehensive enough to ensure that the operator is fully capable of safely handling the equipment in the type of conditions he/she will encounter at the site. The amount of training necessary to fulfill the requirement may be reduced based on the extent to which the operator has acquired the necessary knowledge and skill from prior experience. Ultimately, it is the employer who is required to qualify the machine or equipment operator to safely operate the skid steer. 1926.20(b)(4) states: The employer shall permit only those employees qualified by training or experience to operate equipment or machinery. [Emphasis added.] The term “experience” in this provision is used in conjunction with the term “qualified.” Where an operator, through prior experience, has acquired the knowledge and skill necessary to safely operate the equipment, the operator may be considered “qualified by... experience” for purposes of this provision. However, a history of having operated the equipment by itself does not necessarily mean that the operator knows how to safely and competently operate the equipment. The provision requires the operator to be “qualified.” If the worker has operated the machinery in the past but has not acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate the equipment, the experience is not sufficient to make the employee “qualified.”
24 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
Skid steer equipment that is earth moving equipment is not covered by OSHA Powered Industrial Truck Standard unless the skid steer loader has a vertical mast and are designed as powered industrial trucks meeting ANSI B56.6 Rough Terrain Forklift Trucks. These specialized skid steers would be considered powered industrial trucks under general industry standard, 1910.178. OSHA recommends that employers who use these attachments provide the training described in 1910.178(L). If you have a question whether your skid steer load fits into this category, you should ask the skid steer manufacturer or contact our program.
DEVELOPING A TRAINING PROGRAM The manufacturer designed the skid steer loader to be maintained and used in a certain, defined way. The goal is to adhere to what is in the manual and all labeling on the vehicle. Consider your training to have both a “classroom” component and a hands-on or “practical” component. Start with the operator maintenance manual (OMM). Many manufacturers’ safety training videos are available as well and should be used as a supplement. Some OMMs may be unique by serial number, based on performance options and upgrades added at the time of purchase. The options may allow for greater functionality of the skid steer but may also introduce unique hazards (e.g., augers/forks, etc.). Make sure you use the proper OMM.
While there are many dos and don’ts noted in the OMM, here are a few that seem particularly relevant: • • • •
•
• • •
• • • •
•
.
Establish a routine maintenance and inspection program in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Only front-end attachments approved by the skid steer manufacturer may be used. Never approach an operator with a raised load. Transporting the skid steer - Have plan to secure the skid steer to a trailer, address basic loading principles like using flat surfaces, ratchet binders and an understanding on how to properly secure the load. Approved arm lift support device is required by the manufacturer to be used when the lift arms are required to be held in an elevated position for maintenance. Seat belt systems must be functional and used. Audible alarms must function as designed. Never operate a skid steer if a safety system has been modified or is not working properly. The safety systems are interlock control systems and must function as designed or the skid steer should not be used. This system was intended to prevent the loader’s controls from operating unless the operator was in the proper operating position. The absence of the operator’s weight should have deactivated an electronic switch under the seat that allows the loader controls to function when the lap bar is also in a lowered position. The system ensures that the engine stops when the operator leaves the seat of the skid-steer loader or attempts to lower the lap bar to operate the loader controls from outside of the skid-steer loader. A routine maintenance procedure should not mean seasonal. Inspect the skid steer before and after each use. Keep a copy of the operator’s manuals on/in the vehicle. Supervisors – crew leads must lead. When any unsafe action is noticed, immediately re-educate the operator. Operator behaviors – poor decision making made by the operator can become root causes in injury accidents. In most cases when operators become creative or veer from required principles outlined in the OMM (and training) ,unintended consequences often result injury. Always document your training. For example, for practical training and classroom training, have a written log or sign-in sheet, which include the trainer’s name, operator’s name, date of training, vehicle model, the activities reviewed: inspection, maneuvers, and/or other site-specific procedures. Document when an operator is re-trained.
Keeping your employees safe while avoiding OSHA citations are both great goals. For more information or to request a free safety consultation, please call 800-282-1425. The Growing Concern | June 2022 | 25
PL ANT OF TH E M ON TH
JIM FUNAI, PhD
Cuyahoga Community College Eryngium hookeri (Hooker’s Sea Holly)
SHELLEY FUNAI, LIC
Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
GREAT WESTERN PLANT EXPLORERS SIR WILLIAM HOOKER – THE FATHER OF KEW This month’s famous plant geek was an accomplished horticulturist who made a lasting impact on the world of ornamental gardening. Sir William J. Hooker, born in 1785, in Norwich, England, was named as the first director of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew in 1841. However, he accomplished much more prior to earning that prestigious position at the age of 56. Hooker was born into a wealthy family, and thus, had the means to travel and learn throughout his life. While never much of a traditional student, he spent most of his early years out in nature making his own observations and becoming an impressive illustrator. He is well known for both his botanical and avian illustrations done in his teens and twenties. At the age of 21, he inherited an estate which gave him even more means to travel and perform his own studies of plants. He was especially interested in mosses, and in 1805, discovered a new species of moss (Buxbaumia aphylla). He consulted with a friend, Sir James Smith (who happened to own Linnaeus’ entire
26 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
herbarium), to ensure it was a new species. That same year, another scientist friend, William Kirby, named a new species of weevil Omphalapion hookerorum in honor of Hooker. We don’t know about you, but we weren’t out discovering new mosses and getting bugs named after us in our twenties! After traveling to many different countries and studying plants all over the world, Hooker was appointed as a professor of botany at the University of Glasgow, Scotland in 1820, at the age of 35. Hooker wrote a number of books about mosses and the plants of various countries around Europe to be used as continued on page 28 college textbooks for study.
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continued from page 26 In 1841, at 56, Hooker became the first full time director of the newly established Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. The gardens were a mash-up of several former royal estates, in need of leadership to grow the new garden. Under Hooker’s guidance, the gardens grew to about 15 acres, with an arboretum of about 270 acres. Glass houses were built, including the famous Kew Palm House, and opened daily to the public at no charge. Hooker was well known for walking the gardens to engage with the public, as well. He established the Kew Herbarium which houses one of the largest plant collections in the world.
Sownsendia hookeri (Hooker’s Townsend Daisy)
One woody plant of interest named after Hooker (with some debate if the tribute is to the father or son) is Sarcococca hookeriana known as Sweet Box. This is a very slow growing evergreen shrub in the Buxaceae (Boxwood) family. The only time we’ve come across this plant is at either a botanical garden, or a collector sale, and it is always the variety Humilis. With narrow, lanceolate leaves and situated under 18 inches, this colonizer makes a beautiful evergreen groundcover.
Joseph Hooker, William’s son, also had the horticulture bug and became famous in his own right for his plant discoveries. In 1848-49, Joseph traveled to the Indian state of Sikkim, in the Himalayas just east of Mt. Everest. He collected the seeds of 25 new species of rhododendron and sent them back to his father at Kew for cultivation and incorporation into the gardens.
We can personally attest to the slowness of the plant, having planted a 4 inch pot at our home ten years ago. It is now about 6 inches tall high and 18 wide! We first found this plant growing among large boulders in the Rhododendron garden at Holden Arboretum. It is a beautiful carpet of shiny-green. The second time we encountered this plant was in a planting at Longwood Gardens, in mass, under some flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) trees.
With this much impact on western horticulture there are sure to be a lot of plants named after this man (and his son). Just scratching the surface is Platanthera hookeri (Hooker’s Orchid), Eryngium hookeri (Hooker’s Sea Holly), Townsendia hookeri (Hooker’s Townsend Daisy), Arctostaphylos hookeri (Hooker’s Manzanita), and an entire genus of moss named Hookeria!
The neat thing about this evergreen groundcover is its adaptation to shady areas. Its native habitat is back in the western Himilayas on steep well drained but consistently moist slopes. The plants do get a cute little white flower in late winter/early spring that have some fragrance, but you’ll have to be extra nerdy to get your sniffer down to the ground in March to catch a whiff.
28 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
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Fruits are underwhelming little, black drupes. The botanical genus name Sarcococca (sar-koh-KOH-kuh) is almost nearly impossible to say and comes from Greek sarkos meaning flesh and kokkos, or berry. This is in reference to the fleshy fruits. It is very hard to come by this plant as it is likely out promoted by inkberry (Ilex glabra) and its cousins the Boxwoods (Buxus) to fit the low broadleaf evergreen niche. The only way to increase diversity in our landscapes is to purchase more diversity from our nurseries. The only way to get more diversity in our nurseries is to ask for more diverse plant choices from them so there is demand to grow these plants.
Jim Funai, PhD, is full-time faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, a NALP accredited associate of applied science in hoticulture degree program. He has a PhD in Landscape Engineering and Forestry and is a Licensed Arborist. Shelley Funai is Grounds Manager at Stan Hywett Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio, which offers a historic estate designed by Warren H. Manning and a beautiful manor house museum. She is Landscape Industry Certified in Ornamental Plant Care. The Growing Concern | June 2022 | 29
FEATURE ARTI CLE
5
Ways you’re making your labor problem worse.
It’s the same refrain for landscape business leaders each time you sit down to discuss your operations with your leadership team, meet a new person at a green industry event, or look at your schedule board for the week. We do not have enough people to do the work... If this is a thought you’ve had, you’re not alone. Though green industry revenues have been growing year over year, hiring in the green industry has not kept pace—and companies have had to examine their reliance on old hiring practices and H-2B visa programs to keep staffed. And as many industries experienced during COVID, people reassessed their work lives and decided to make a change. According to U.S. Department of Labor Statistics, the “Great Resignation” saw 11.5 million quit their jobs in Q2 of 2021 alone.
The labor situation has made many business leaders turn inward and to their best employees to explore what they can do to retain their people and attract new workers. How does this translate in the green industry? Here are five ways you could be making the labor problem worse for your landscape company:
ONLY RECRUITING WHEN YOU NEED TO Top landscape companies don’t just hire when they have roles they need to fill—they never stop recruiting. Hiring an HR continued on page 32
30 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
F EATURE ARTI CLE
continued from page 30 consultant or a recruiter can ensure hiring stays top of mind when a good candidate arises, and they can help position your company to interview top talent first.
Once those career development plans are in place, keep your top performers on the path with monthly or quarterly performance goals and reviews.
But recruiting doesn’t end there. Potential employees see your public image as a reflection of what it would be like to work for your company. Show you’re on top of your game by keeping the career pages on your website and postings on recruiting websites updated with current, engaging job descriptions. Your website and social media accounts should also reflect well on your company culture, presenting your organization as a fun, challenging, and rewarding place to work.
NOT ESTABLISHING STANDARD ONBOARDING AND CONTINUING EDUCATION PROCESSES
NOT DEVELOPING CAREER GROWTH PATHS In a 2019 study by the Society for Human Resource Management, a lack of career development was the leading cause in why people quit their jobs. Entice candidates by showing them what they could achieve within your company—moving up from crew member to crew leader to production manager, and beyond. For clientfacing and operations staff, show how entry- and mid-level roles can ladder up to leadership positions.
Creating and executing a clear and comprehensive onboarding program for new team members gives them the immediate satisfaction of productivity and empowerment from day one. Help build confidence and competence in your team members by fostering their development through education and certification courses, such as those offered through the National Association of Landscape Professionals or through equipment manufacturers. Standardize these professional development plans and include them as part of your ongoing reviews.
NOT OFFERING BENEFITS THAT DIFFERENTIATE YOU AS AN EMPLOYER Consider what value you offer to your potential employees that no other landscape company does. Maybe your company offers a different work schedule, for example, with four 10-hour shifts instead of five work days a week. continued on page 34
32 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
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FEATURE ARTI CLE continued from page 32
Some companies are finding that early wage access programs like Aspire’s Pay onDemand give their companies an edge when it comes to employee retention. Offering your people a portion of their earned wages ahead of payday can give them more control over their earnings, and help foster a trust and loyalty to your company. Flexibility in work hours, early wage access, or something else entirely—whatever your differentiator is, be sure you’re communicating this information in your job postings and interviews.
USING OUTDATED EQUIPMENT AND DISCONNECTED TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS The most successful landscape companies have solid operating procedures they follow and enforce, and they’re consistently updating and investing in quality equipment to provide topof-the-line service to their customers.
continued from page 32
For operations and field staff alike, an end-to-end business management software that offers the ability to do their jobs better—without having to learn a variety of other disjointed software solutions—shows you care about giving your people the tools to succeed at their jobs. And that feeling of success and accountability can help empower your people to deliver for customers. Implementing innovative field equipment like robotic mowers shows that your company values the services it provides, is updated on industry trends, and is consistently evaluating how it can operate better and more efficiently. We hope these tips help you examine how your company recruits, hires, and keeps its employees.
This article was written by Abby Hart for the Aspire Software blog and was featured in the Management & People section. Abby joined Aspire Software in 2021. In her role as content marketing manager, she works with the marketing team to create content to educate leaders in the landscaping industry. To see more content like this, visit www.youraspire.com/blog.
34 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
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• Cedar fences (Many styles available). • Aluminum & Vinyl fences (In stock). • Several styles and colors to choose from.
Wholesale Prices to OLA Members, or Professional Installation by our Crews. 1053 Bank St. Akron,OH 44305 330-784-0456 www.acmefence.com
WHAT OUTDOOR LIVING SHOULD BE®
9718 Avon Lake Road Lodi, OH 44254 (330) 948-1006
Rich in Texture - Rich in Color
• Proud dealer of Oberfields • Americana Collection premium pavers • Fire Pits • Rosetta Collection • Versa-Lok Walls
Oberfields.com
The Growing Concern | June 2022 | 35
FEATURE ARTI CLE
BAD GOOGLE REVIEW? 7 TIPS ON HOW TO HANDLE IT During the pandemic, Google reviews became a key factor in generating new business. Consider these stats from UT-based Kenect: • • •
88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. 87% of consumers won’t consider a company with bad online ratings. Data indicates that about 1 in 50 reviews that businesses receive are negative.
So what if you get a negative review on your Google My Business page? How should you handle it? The answer requires a little extra work, but it’s time well spent to ensure anyone who searches for your business receives a positive look at how you operate. 1. Monitor your reviews. The very first thing to do is make sure you are monitoring your reviews’ page regularly. You don’t want to leave bad reviews up for days without any response. There is a natural tendency to ignore a negative review, to pass it off as ‘the reviewer is crazy’ or ‘the reviewer is mean.’ But don’t do this. You’ve got to get to the bottom of what happened. Examine your business and determine if there was something you could have done better or if there was something you overlooked. Maybe your team was rude to the customer. Maybe you didn’t communicate effectively. Maybe you overcharged them, or charged a fee they weren’t expecting. 2. Fix potential business problems. Pay attention to the reviews and fix the things that may be wrong in your business. Ignoring bad reviews doesn’t fix potential problems. Try to learn from negative reviews and see if they can drive you and your team to improvement. 3. Don’t overreact. While not ideal, one negative review isn’t going to sink your business. Don’t fire the employee who made the mistake, or go on social media and stalk the person who left the negative review. 4. Don’t argue. In addition to the above, make sure you don’t get into a public argument. The natural reaction for anyone when they get an unwarranted negative Google review is to go
36 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association
on Google and defend their business. Resist the urge to give the reviewer a piece of your mind, put them in their place, or tell them why they are wrong. It won’t do any good. No one’s mind will be changed. The reviewer isn’t going to read your reply and suddenly say ‘Oh wow, you know what… that business is right. I’m wrong.’ All you do when you leave a cranky reply is make the situation worse. 5. Consider the true audience. Leave a reply that is respectful. You don’t need to apologize unless something really did go wrong, but you do need to be empathetic. Your entire goal with your reply should be to impress the thousands of people who are going to read that review and your reply in the next two months. They’re your audience, not the person behind the bad review. 6. Don’t rely on Google to take down the bad review. One Spongy Moth Caterpillar of the more frequent questions asked about reviews is: Will Google take them down? The answer is generally no. Google will usually only remove reviews if they are clearly spam, clearly from a competitor, or cross the line in some way—things like obscenities, racist language, etc. For instance, Google will not take down a review that calls you and your business dishonest and awful. But they will take down reviews that threaten to burn your business down. That’s the distinction. 7. Encourage positive reviews. Overall, the best way to deal with negative reviews is to go get more positive ones, yet according to Kenect, 71% of companies say they don’t have enough reviews. Make sure you are asking good customers to leave reviews for you to increase your positive review rate. Additionally, only 1% of your customers will leave a review unless you text. With texting, it’s 35%. You want to show potential customers that negative reviews are rare, and are not a representation of how your business operates. This article was written by Ben Leighton, a content marketing specialist with Kenect, a UT-based business that builds business platforms to text customers, generate online reviews, gather website leads, video chat, and collect payments. To learn more, visit kenect. com. This article appeared on Turf ’s Business Management Blog, located at turfmagazine.com/business-management.
Since 1986, VanCuren Tree Services has been Northeast Ohio’s complete tree care specialist. We provide comprehensive services for any residential, commercial, or utility tree care need. The tree professionals at VanCuren Tree Services have helped home and business owners throughout Greater Cleveland and Northeast Ohio maintain the beauty, vitality, and safety of their trees. We are proud to offer a full range of tree care services, from tree and stump removal to storm damage clean up to utility work and beyond.
To find out more about what VanCuren has to offer, visit our website at www.vancurentreecare.com, or call us at 440.338.5005 today for a free consultation. • Complete Tree Maintenance Programs
• 75’ Bucket Trucks
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• 178’ 50 Ton Crane SALES REPRESENTATIVES: Michael Sowul, Certified Arborist James DiRosa, Certified Arborist David R. Van Curen
PHONE: 440.338.5005 FAX: 440.564.9319
Your Complete Tree Care Specialists www.vancurentreecare.com
D I RECTI ON S
SUMMER IS UPON US With the start of summer upon us, it is wonderful to finally see some warmer temperatures and sunnier days. With summer, we offer several opportunities for education, networking, and fun!
PLANT I.D. CLINICS First up this summer are our popular Plant I.D. Clinics, held in Hilliard and Valley City on July 12 and 14, respectively. We are happy to be back at full capacity with the number of attendees we can accommodate, but are still expecting these classes to sell out, so do not delay! These classes are a great opportunity for you or your staff to learn more about plant material. Learn what different varieties look like and what types of conditions they thrive in while touring the nursery in small groups to see, touch, and smell plant material. A helpful handout goes home with each attendee as a reference and to allow them to continue their learning experience.
MEMBER MEET-UPS – NEW THIS YEAR! Don’t forget we have started Networking Groups for Women in Landscape and Young Professionals (under 40). The Young Professionals will be meeting on July 19 and the Women in Landscape will meet August 9. The location of these MeetUps are still to be determined and will be announced on our website and by email.
OLA SCHOLARSHIP GOLF CLASSIC It is time to round-up your golf team and plan for a great 18 holes of golf with plenty of food, fun, and friends at the OLA Scholarship Golf Classic, thanks to our Sponsors. The Classic is scheduled for Thursday, August 4th. The Classic will be held in Columbia Station at the Mallard Creek Golf Club. As always, there will be many fun games and raffles. The Winking Lizard will return as the caterer for lunch and dinner because of the rave reviews we continue to receive about the Lizard! Lunch will include fresh grilled hamburgers and sausage sandwiches with peppers and onions. Dinner will still be an AllU-Can-Eat buffet of BBQ chicken and ribs, served with all the fixings you would expect at a barbeque. Yum! If you do not golf, you can purchase a dinner ticket and join us for an early dinner. (If coming for dinner, plan to arrive by 3:00 pm.)
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SANDY MUNLEY
Executive Director / OLA Please show your support of our scholarships by golfing, sponsoring a tee and/or donating a door prize (valued at $25 or more). OLA staff will be happy to purchase gift cards on your behalf so that you don’t have to leave the comfort of your office – just send us a check, call in your credit card number, or ask us to invoice you for sponsoring a tee, or door prize. (Golf registration must be paid at the time the reservation is made.) There is an option to do this online as well by visiting www.ohiolandscapers.org/golf-outing. Another way to support OLA Scholarships and enjoy the entire day is to be a volunteer at the event. We need people to help with registration, contests, pavilion set-up, take down, etc. Please give us a call in the OLA office for details on volunteering. The OLA Scholarship Golf Classic is always a huge event, for a great cause, where everyone has fun! Whether you are a golf hack or a pro, it is the place to be on August 4th!
OLA SNOW & ICE MANAGEMENT CLINIC Finally, just as we’re beginning to enjoy summer – and as Brian Maurer already mentioned – I’m going to talk about snow. It’s the time of year to begin planning for your winter season and to start making those purchasing decisions for new equipment. This year’s OLA Snow and Ice Management Clinic is planned for August 25 at Woodside Event Center in Broadview Heights. The committee has lined up some very interesting topics to cover, and of course, we have great support from our supplier members who will be on hand with equipment for you to see at the trade show portion of the event! I look forward to seeing you at our summer events!
ADVERTI SI N G I N D E X
SERVING LANDSCAPE PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1978
Growing High Quality Plants, People, and Relationships
CUSTOM GROWING & DELIVERY SERVICES Millcreek Gardens LLC 15088 Smart-Cole Road Ostrander, Ohio 43061
ANNUALS
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800-948-1234 sales@millcreekplants.com MillcreekPlants.com
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS The Ohio Landscape Association (OLA) is happy to introduce its newest members.
REGULAR MEMBERS On the Other Side 10185 Gottschalk Pkwy #2 Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 (216) 291-9950 Adam Wynbrandt
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS Company 119 115 Wilson Mills Rd. Chardon, OH 44024 (440) 565-5655 Jim McClintock Mont Surfaces by Mont Granite Inc. 6130 Cochran Rd Solon, OH 44139 (440) 287-0101 Carol Payto
Village Outdoors 7910 Euclid Chardon Rd. Kirtland, OH 44094 (440) 479-5363 John DiFranco
33
A-1 Power Equipment
33
Abraxus / Royalton Landscape Supply
35
Acme Fence & Lumber
23
Botson Insurance Group, Inc.
29
Buyansky Outdoor Supply
6
Boulders Direct
15
Davis Tree Farm & Nursery, Inc.
40
Ditch Witch Mid States
13
EcoLawn, Inc.
35
Frank Brothers Landscape Supply
9
Independent Tree
21
Kipton Quarry
31
Kurtz Bros., Inc.
11
Lakeside Sand & Gravel
39
Millcreek Gardens LLC
15
MRLM/JTO, Inc.
29
O’Reilly Equipment
29
Oliger Seed Co.
27
Premier Plant Solutions
2
Sintsirmas & Mueller Co. LPA
11
Sohar’s / RCPW, Inc.
37
VanCuren Tree Services, Inc.
25
Zoresco Equipment Company The Growing Concern | June 2022 | 39
Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Cleveland, OH Permit No. 2280
9240 Broadview Road Broadview Hts., OH 44147-2517
06/22
Mid-States
DARE TO COMPARE
Ditch Witch Stand-On Skid Steers - Built to OUTperform
SK600
Small
SK800
Big
1-888-DITCHWITCH ditchwitchmidstates.com
SK1050
Bigger
SK1550
Biggest
Columbus, OH Full Service Branch
Louisville, KY Full Service Branch
Pittsburgh, PA Full Service Branch
Erlanger, KY Service Branch
3660 Interchange Rd, Columbus,OH 43204 400 Sparrow Dr, Shepherdsville,KY 40165 Phone 614-443-9751 | Fax 614-443-9219 Phone 502-543-3309 | Fax 502-543-9613 9052 Marshall Rd, Cranberry Twp,PA 16066 3461 Piedmont Cr, Erlanger KY 41018 Phone 724-742-2844 | Fax 724-742-2877 Phone 859-263-5050 (by appt. only)
SK3000-Full Size CTL
“The Beast”
Cincinnati, OH Satellite Service Phone 513-672-3060
Cleveland, OH Satellite Service Phone 330-220-6585
Rochester, NY Satellite Service Phone 585-334-2920