July/August
WHY OUR ‘SONORAN EMERALD’ OUTSHINES THE ‘DESERT MUSEUM.’
ARIZONA’S SIGNATURE TREE
The Parkinsonia or Cercidium is commonly known as the ‘Palo Verde’. The most popular hybrid is the ‘Desert Museum.’ Since there has been no authentication in its hybridization, every nursery makes their own hybrid. Unfortunately, that means you don’t really know what you’re getting with ‘Desert Museum.’ Inconsistency abounds.
WE MADE A SUPERIOR TREE
Presenting our exclusive ‘Sonoran Emerald’ hybrid. Crafted in our Innovation Lab. Field-tested. Embraced by discerning landscapers.
DESERT MUSEUM VS SONORAN EMERALD
Retaining all the beauty, without the drawbacks. Bid farewell to undesirable features of the Desert Museum: scarring, droppings, and limb breakage. Envision a lush tree with radiant green bark, virtually indestructible in strong Arizona winds – the “Sonoran Emerald.”
INNOVATION FROM THE GROUND UP
Our breakthrough: grafting exclusively on ‘Parkinsonia X parkinsonia’ rootstock. A more time-consuming and costly process, but one that ensures consistency. STRONG TREES. HAPPY CLIENTS. Picture a world without noisy clean-ups, costly replacements, or client embarrassment. You’re not just planting a tree; you’re cultivating trust.
CONTACT OUR SALES EXPERTS
Large trees in stock, ready for planting. Choose from 25-gallon pots or 36” wooden crates. Two locations to serve you. Phoenix: 623-581-3100 or Cave Creek: 480-488-1968
The ALCA INFLUENCE
ARIZONA LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS’ ASSOCIATION
President
DTR
Vice
Warren Runcorn
Secretary
Kleski & Associates
Treasurer Beth Postma
All
Executive
Linda Turnage
Linda@ALCA .org
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: THE ALCA 2025 EXCELLENCE IN LANDSCAPING AWARDS PROGRAM
Linda Turnage Executive Director
The Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association (ALCA) is proud to present the 2025 Excellence in Landscaping Awards Program and Awards Gala, our signature event that honors the best in landscape design, installation, and maintenance across the state. Every year, this program serves as a vibrant celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and commitment to sustainability within Arizona’s landscape industry.
Why We Celebrate Excellence
Landscaping in Arizona is more than just aesthetics—it’s a blend of art, science, and environmental stewardship. With the challenges of water conservation, extreme temperatures, and unique terrain, creating thriving outdoor spaces requires innovation and expertise. The Excellence in Landscaping Awards Program recognizes those who not only meet these challenges but exceed them—delivering beautiful, functional, and sustainable landscapes that enrich our communities and inspire the next generation of professionals.
Through this program, we aim to:
• Raise industry standards by spotlighting outstanding work and promoting best practices.
• Encourage innovation in landscape design, maintenance, and water-wise solutions.
• Celebrate the people whose hard work transforms ordinary spaces into extraordinary environments.
Who We Recognize
The awards shine a spotlight on the dedicated professionals behind Arizona’s most impressive landscapes—landscape contractors, designers, maintenance teams, and project managers. From large-scale commercial installations to intimate residential gardens, every winning project is a reflection of teamwork, technical excellence, and a deep understanding of the desert landscape.
Categories include:
• Residential and Commercial Installation
• Residential and Commercial Maintenance
• Best of Show (Residential and Commercial/Maintenance and Installation)
• Sustainable Landscape Management (Launching in 2026!)
We also take great pride in honoring excellent customer service and leadership through our Special Awards, including students and apprentices who represent the future of our industry. Gratitude for Our Sponsors, Attendees, and Speakers
The Excellence in Landscaping Awards Program and Awards Gala would not be possible without the generosity and support of our sponsors, who help elevate the event to new heights each year. Their commitment to the industry—whether through product innovation, education, or partnership—strengthens our professional community and ensures that Arizona landscapes remain world-class.
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to every attendee who joins us to celebrate these achievements. Your presence is a testament to the strength and unity of the ALCA community. Whether you’re a contractor, designer, supplier, or landscape enthusiast, your participation adds energy and meaning to this event.
Lastly, a special thank you to our speakers, whose insights, expertise, and passion for landscaping continue to inspire and educate. Their contributions elevate the event beyond an awards ceremony—into a forum for growth, dialogue, and shared vision.
As we look forward to the 2025 Excellence in Landscaping Awards Program and Awards Gala, we are reminded of the power of collaboration, the value of craftsmanship, and the impact of
outstanding landscape design on our daily lives. Together, we’re shaping a more beautiful, sustainable Arizona—one project at a time.
Thank you for being part of this journey. We can’t wait to celebrate with you.
This year’s Awards Gala will take place on November 22nd, 2025, at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel. The reception begins at 5 p.m., followed by the Awards Ceremony. Call us to register.
2025 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
INTRODUCING THE ALCA ONLINE CAREER CENTER
We have officially launched our new Career Center , an enhanced online platform designed to connect landscape industry employers with job seekers throughout Arizona. The Career Center is part of ALCA’s ongoing mission to support the growth and professionalism of the green industry by addressing the evolving workforce needs of its members and the broader landscaping community.
A Centralized Resource for Landscape Careers in Arizona
The new Career Center offers an intuitive, modern experience for both employers and job seekers. It serves as a one-stop resource where companies can promote job openings, find qualified candidates, and strengthen their workforce—all within a platform tailored specifically to the landscape, irrigation, and horticulture sectors.
For years, our members have asked for better tools to find reliable, skilled workers. This Career Center answers that call. It simplifies hiring for employers and opens new career pathways for professionals in our industry.
Key Features and Benefits of the Career Center
The ALCA Career Center is equipped with a variety of tools to make recruiting and job hunting more effective:
• Targeted Job Postings – Employers can post open positions with options to highlight key qualifications, benefits, and certifications.
• Resume Search Tools – Recruiters can browse candidate profiles and reach out directly to potential hires.
• Automated Job Matching – Job seekers receive alerts and recommendations based on their skills, experience, and interests.
• Employer Branding Options – Companies can showcase their workplace culture and values to stand out to prospective applicants.
• Expanded Reach – Job listings are accessible to a large and growing network of professionals, expanding the pool of potential candidates beyond traditional sources.
• Real-Time Analytics – Employers can monitor the performance of their postings and optimize their recruiting efforts.
Designed to Strengthen Arizona’s Green Industry
This new platform is part of ALCA’s broader commitment to developing a skilled and sustainable workforce. It complements ALCA’s education, training, and certification programs - such as ACLP, ACIT, and SLM - offering members a practical tool for attracting and retaining talent.
Whether you’re hiring for landscape design, maintenance, irrigation, arbor care, or sales, the ALCA Career Center offers customized solutions to meet the demands of Arizona’s dynamic landscape industry.
Get Started Today!
The ALCA Career Center is now live and available to both ALCA members and nonmembers. To explore open positions, create a job seeker profile, or post a job, visit: https://azlca. careerwebsite.com/home/index.cfm?
For more information about ALCA programs, membership, or upcoming industry events, visit www.alca.org.
Nickie Velten 2024 ALCA President
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AAA LANDSCAPE: 50 YEARS OF GROWING PEOPLE, PURPOSE, AND PLACES
AAA Landscape’s roots reach far deeper than business—they are grounded in a legacy of faith, family, and stewardship. Founded in 1975 by brothers Bob and Richard Underwood, the company grew from a humble dream into one of the Southwest’s most respected commercial landscape contractors, celebrating 50 years in 2025.
The story begins with their father, Amos Harvey Underwood, a World War II and Korean War veteran born in 1916 in Pigott, Arkansas. A man of faith and fierce dedication, Amos became a county agent in Arkansas before moving his family to Arizona in 1952 in search of opportunity. “It was more than a move—it was a caravan of dreams,” Bob Underwood recalls. The families came west with one cotton-picking machine and a shared belief in a better future.
Side by side, the Underwoods worked the land, harvested cotton, and farmed the valleys of Arizona. In 1958, Amos became the County Agent for Navajo County, guiding farmers and ranchers across Northern Arizona and the Navajo Nation. His master’s thesis, focused on beautifying Navajo County, later inspired the guiding philosophy behind AAA Landscape.
When Amos passed away in 1971, his legacy continued to live on in the values he instilled. In 1975, after serving in the Army and spending time on the rodeo circuit, Bob Underwood took a job as a landscape laborer. He worked during the day and studied horticulture at night. He quickly found a passion and purpose. With a $1,000 loan from his mother and a borrowed truck from his Uncle Gene, he founded AAA Landscape in Tucson. Six months later, he invited his brother Richard to join as a partner.
Together, Bob and Richard laid the foundation for a company rooted in grit, humility, and purpose. “Rick played an instrumental role in our growth,” Bob said. “He was not only my partner—he was my brother, my sounding board, and one of the most creative minds I’ve ever known.” Richard passed away in 2021, but his legacy remains deeply ingrained in the company's fabric.
From modest beginnings, AAA Landscape expanded steadily by staying true to its core values: quality work, dependable service, and a people-first approach. Word of mouth helped grow the client base, and the team eventually began serving a wide range of projects & communities.
Today, AAA Landscape operates across Arizona, employing more than 700 people. The company holds General Engineering Licenses in multiple states and is consistently ranked among the top 100 commercial landscape contractors in the nation.
The company’s services have evolved to include full-service construction, landscape management, arbor care, design-build, pest management, smart irrigation, and water management solutions. But the heart of AAA’s success remains its people.
From day one, AAA has believed in developing talent from within. Laborers become crew leaders; crew leaders become foremen, and so on. Training, mentorship, and employee growth are deeply embedded in the company culture. “Our legacy has
always been rooted in our people. By investing in our employees, we’re honoring the values this company was built on—growth, integrity, and purpose—and ensuring that legacy thrives for generations to come,” says Cheryl Balbinot, Chief Operating Officer.
Longevity is typical at AAA. Many team members have decades of experience with the company, and loyalty is celebrated at every level. This is more than a workplace— it’s a place where careers are built, families are supported, and potential is realized.
Safety is also a cornerstone of the company’s philosophy. AAA maintains a full-time safety department, conducts daily site briefings, and fosters a culture where everyone is empowered to pause work and speak up. Incentive programs reward teams for safe practices and continuous improvement.
Beyond the jobsite, AAA Landscape has always prioritized service to the community. The company contributes time, labor, and resources to sustainability efforts. Turf conversions, xeriscape retrofits, and innovative irrigation systems are just some of the initiatives AAA leads to help clients conserve resources and adapt to environmental needs.
One meaningful example is the Underwood Family Garden at the University of Arizona, originally dedicated in honor of
Amos Underwood. This living tribute represents the company’s legacy of education, landscape beautification, and public service.
In 2025, AAA Landscape marked its 50th anniversary with major celebrations in Phoenix and Tucson. Both cities proclaimed April 25, 2025, as “AAA Landscape Day,” honoring the company’s lasting impact on public spaces and communities across Arizona. The celebrations brought together longtime clients, employees, and civic leaders to reflect on the journey and look toward the future.
As AAA Landscape begins its next half-century, it remains deeply grounded in the values that shaped its founding— faith, family, hard work, and stewardship. While continuing to invest in technology, sustainability, and workforce development, the company moves forward with purpose and vision.
The journey of AAA Landscape has been guided by many dedicated individuals, whose leadership continues to shape the path ahead. The company’s Board of Directors and Shareholders include:
• Robert Underwood, Chief Executive Officer
• Mike Walter, President
• Cheryl Balbinot, Chief Operating Officer
TRANSFORM YOUR FLEET
• Greg Gaston, Chief Financial Officer
• Jeff Hatfield, Tucson Branch Manager
Representing the next generation of leadership, the Executive Committee carries forward the company’s legacy:
• Jordan Davis, Executive Director of Construction
• Jeff Schlemmer, Executive Director of Landscape Management
• Sandy Pinedo, Executive Director of IT
• Juan Camacho, Executive Account Manager
• Jordan Heintz, Executive Director of Asset Management
Fifty years after two brothers launched a dream with little more than a loan and a pickup truck, AAA Landscape stands as a powerful example of what’s possible when determination and shared values take root. The landscapes they’ve created flourish above ground—but the true strength of the company lies in the roots that run deep.
For more information, visit www.aaalandscape.com.
Whether you are looking for a safer and more efficient way to perform your tasks or expand your services, Switch-N-Go® can help. Give us 5 minutes and we can transform your fleet to meet any job or seasonal demand. Let's talk about how the Switch-N-Go® solution can make your business WorkReady™ with our hoist system and interchangeable truck bodies.
• One Truck with Multiple Bodies
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2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Creative Environments
Sponsored by:
Commercial Installation $300,000 - $500,000, Award of Excellence
- $500,000, Judges Award
Compass Church, Commercial Installation $100,000$300,000, Award of Distinction
Flora Residence, Residential Maintenance Under $25,000, Judges Award
Creative,
Aura, Residential Installation $300,000
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Creative Environments
Shadow
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Creative Environments
Sponsored by:
Tapestry Collection, Residential Installation
$500,000 - $1 Million, Award of Distinction
Aloravita Collection, Residential Installation $500,000 - $1 Million, Judges Award
Guesthouse, Residential Installation $500,000 - $1 Million, Judges Award
Sunburst, Residential Installation over $1 Million, Award of Distinction
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Creative Environments
Sponsored by:
Hoffman, Residential Installation over $1 Million, Award of Distinction
Munari, Residential Installation over $1 Million, Judges Award
Monterey, Residential Installation over $1 Million, Judges Award
Vacaro, Residential Installation over $1 Million, Judges Award
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Awards
Creative Environments
Sponsored by:
2024 Excellence in Landscaping Award Sponsors
Hunter Industries/FX Luminaire
Hunter Industries offers thousands of products in over 120 countries, including a complete spectrum of water- and energyefficient solutions for residential, commercial, and golf course irrigation systems. We also offer industry-leading landscape, architectural, and facade lighting solutions through our FX Luminaire and Lumascape brands. 480-305-4289 www.hunterindustries.com
BLACK DIAMOND DIRECTIONAL DOWNLIGHT
The Black Diamond Directional Down Light is compatible with MR16 and MR16 Chameleon lamps. It has a fully sealed body, threaded cap, and convex lens, making it suitable for up or downlighting. Includes a 9.5” adjustable glare shield and a Tree Mount accessory with a special bolt and nut setup.
For more information visit: https://brillianceled.com/black-diamond-line/
Haven, Residential Installation over $1 Million, Judges Award
Reservoir, Residential Installation over $1 Million, Judges Award
SPRINKLER WORLD OF ARIZONA
This year marks a major milestone for one of Arizona’s most enduring and beloved irrigation supply businesses — Sprinkler World of Arizona — as it celebrates 50 years of service to landscapers, contractors, municipalities, and homeowners alike.
We had the pleasure of catching up with founder and owner Dick Wheelock, whose story is as inspiring now as it was in 1975 when he first opened his doors. Born in Troy, New York, Dick moved west with his family at age 12 due to his father’s health issues. Their journey brought them to Phoenix, where his parents and grandparents purchased a golf driving range near 8th Street and Camelback — setting the stage for what would eventually become a lifelong connection to Arizona’s landscape.
After graduating from Arcadia High School in 1963, Dick attended Arizona State University with plans to become a teacher. But while working for a local sprinkler contractor, Tom O’Leary, to pay the bills, he discovered a passion — and a knack — for irrigation. “I realized I could make more digging ditches than I ever could teaching,” he recalls with a chuckle. That realization led him to Turf Irrigation & Water Works Supply, where he thrived in sales from 1969 to 1975.
Then came the turning point.
In a twist of fate, the company brought in a motivational speaker to give the sales reps a pep talk. “I got so excited, I quit,” Dick laughs. That burst of inspiration launched what would become a half-century legacy. With help from the Small Business Administration, he opened his first Sprinkler World location on Indian School Road near 24th Street. “I remember looking out the window thinking, ‘What did I just do?’” he says. Some may remember the letter he sent at the time — featuring Snoopy and the tagline, “Come see me at 2114 E. Indian School.”
On July 5, 1975, he opened for business. That same week, his first order came in - a large order he was unable to fulfill – so he had to run back to his former employer to pick up the parts he didn’t yet have in stock.
Since that humble beginning, Sprinkler World has grown steadily. A second store
opened in Mesa in 1978, and today the company boasts eight locations across Arizona. His brother Dale joined the company in 1976, and sister Dawn has overseen accounts payable and HR for over 20 years — a testament to the strong relationships Dick has cultivated.
Now 80 years old, Dick still comes to work each day with the same passion and energy. “People ask when I’ll retire. I say, ‘Why? I’m having too much fun,’” he says with a grin.
Sprinkler World serves a remarkably diverse customer base: homeowners, landscapers, schools, golf courses, farmers, and cities. Each location stocks thousands of products, and they remain committed to staying on top of the latest trends and technologies in irrigation. Touring the shop today, the sheer breadth of inventory reflects their commitment to “cover the whole yard.”
Just as impressive as the business growth is the team culture Dick has built. With 75 employees, he prides himself on knowing everyone personally. “He leads with heart,” one team member told us. “You can feel the respect we all have for him.”
Community is a core value at Sprinkler World. Their offices are lined with plaques and awards — from Little League sponsorships to top national sales honors. Dick is also a longtime member of ours, the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association (ALCA), and actively encourages others in the industry to get involved. “It’s a great organization to be part of,” he says.
One final story shows just how enduring Dick’s impact has been: A few years ago, while visiting a Verizon store, he heard someone calling out his name. It was none other than Bob Flori — the man who had hired that fateful motivational speaker 50 years earlier. “Remember when I brought that guy in?” Flori said, laughing. “I’ve never done it again!”
As Sprinkler World of Arizona celebrates its golden anniversary, it’s clear the story of Dick Wheelock isn’t just about irrigation — it’s about passion, perseverance, and building something that lasts.
Here’s to 50 years — and still going strong.
Adaptive Pest and Weed Solutions
Ryan Kibner Tempe, AZ ryan@adaptivephs.com
Expert pest and weed management + plant health services. Helping Arizona’s tree and plants thrive, creating healthy landscapes and happy homes.
Associate Class 1
Catalina Landscape
Fernando La Madrid
1965 W Gardner Lane Tucson, Arizona 85705 fernando@catalinalandscape.com
With over 40 years of experience, our team of knowledgeable landscape professionals produces creative and original solutions that consider the regional climate and site conditions to meet your needs.
Contractor Class 4
Highridge Landscapes, Inc
Tyler Lindquist 2543 Jackrabbit Ln Bozeman, Montana 59718 tyler@highridgelandscapes.com
Highridge is a diverse team of professionals who are singularly passionate about all aspects of landscape design. We like a challenge, see no detail as too small and promise to focus our years of expertise on designing and maintaining outdoor spaces that blend with and complement your property. We don’t budge from quality.
Contractor Class 1
Laveen Elementary School District
Donald Rodman 5001 W Dobbins Road Laveen, Arizona drodman@laveeneld.org Affiliate
L & R Management Landscaping Company, LLC
Rene Rodriguez 19333 West Flower St Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 landrlandscaping37@gmail.com
We provide landscaping services to HOA Communities, as well as commercial properties. We have been doing business since 2004 and have been licensed, bonded, and insured since 2012. Contractor Class 1
Mohave Community College
DeWayne Partain 1971 E Jagerson Ave Kingman, Arizona 86409 dpartain@mohave.edu
We are a College that services all of Mohave County. Affiliate
Visionary Landscapes
Dustin Walker 24 W. Camelback Rd., Suite A #248 Phoenix, Arizona 85013 dustin@visionary-landscapes.com
Residential landscape and garden design with a focus on sustainable landscapes, modern technology, and outdoor living space; creating extensions to the home for year-round outdoor living.
Contractor Class 1
Whole Home and Property LLC
Bryan Masalta 16772 W Bell Rd. Ste 110-251 Surprise, Arizona 85374 masaltaqp@gmail.com
Contractor Class 1
ARIZONA'S LANDSCAPING COMMUNITY UNITES AGAIN AT OUR ALCA & SKY BLU UNDERWOOD 2025 GOLF TOURNAMENT
The awe-inspiring landscapes of Arizona are not only a natural treasure—they're also a reflection of the craftsmanship and dedication of the state's landscape contractors. Each year, the Arizona
Landscape Contractors’ Association (ALCA) – in partnership with AAA Landscape - recognizes this spirit of excellence, community, and education through its highly anticipated Annual Golf Tournament. In 2025, the tradition continues, with the tournament once again serving as a major fundraiser for the Sky Blu Underwood Scholarship.
This year’s event took place at the scenic Talking Stick Golf Club in Scottsdale, drawing a diverse crowd of contractors, suppliers, and landscape professionals. The day combined competitive fun with a shared purpose: to raise funds that help cultivate the next generation of landscaping leaders.
The Sky Blu Underwood Scholarship, named in memory of a passionate young landscaping student, provides financial support to individuals pursuing careers in landscape contracting. Sky’s vision and enthusiasm for the industry live on through this initiative, which aims to make professional education and training more accessible for aspiring landscapers across Arizona.
Throughout the day, participants contributed generously through raffles, sponsorships, and direct donations. The strong turnout and enthusiastic support from the community highlighted the deep commitment within the industry to education and professional development.
“Our industry is only as strong as the people who shape it,” said ALCA’s Executive Director, Linda Turnage. “The Sky Blu Underwood Scholarship embodies our commitment to cultivating talent, and this tournament is a perfect example of how we come together to make a lasting impact.”
The tournament also offered attendees a valuable opportunity to network, build relationships, and exchange ideas. Between rounds, participants discussed current trends, innovative techniques, and sustainable practices, making the event as much about professional growth as it was about fundraising.
As the sun set on another successful day, the awards ceremony celebrated top golfers, but the real victory was the community’s collective impact. This year’s tournament exceeded its fundraising
goals, ensuring that more students will benefit from the scholarship and pursue their dreams in the landscaping field.
Looking forward, ALCA remains committed to advancing education and fostering leadership in the industry. Events like the ALCA & Sky Blu Underwood 2025 Golf Tournament underscore the association’s mission to promote excellence, innovation, and a spirit of giving back.
In the heart of Arizona’s natural beauty, the landscape community stands strong—united by purpose, passion, and the enduring legacy of Sky Blu Underwood. With every swing, donation, and connection made, this year’s tournament reaffirmed that the future of landscaping in Arizona is in dedicated and capable hands.
HORIZON DISTRIBUTORS
Building and maintaining a strong relationship with a wholesale supplier is essential for landscape and irrigation contractors to ensure smooth operations, access to quality products, competitive pricing, and reliable support. Here are some key strategies for building and leveraging this relationship effectively:
Establish Open Communication
Share your business needs, project timelines, and challenges with your supplier. This helps them understand how they can best support you. Learn about the supplier’s product offerings, services, and policies to ensure alignment with your business goals. And feel confident in your ability to speak freely about your interactions with the supplier. Constructive feedback about products, people or services can help the supplier improve and better meet your needs.
Build Trust
Trust works both ways. While it’s important for the supplier to deliver orders on time and consistently communicate with you about pricing and availability, reciprocating that respect helps build mutual trust. Place orders on time, honor payment terms, and maintain professionalism in all interactions. And while there are many options in our industry, working with the same supplier consistently rather than jumping between multiple suppliers helps build a long-term relationship.
Leverage Supplier Expertise
Your irrigation supplier should have deep expertise in irrigation products and systems. Ask for recommendations, technical advice, or training opportunities. In addition, suppliers have direct relationships with manufacturer reps and can inform you about new products, technologies, and industry trends that can give you a competitive edge.
Negotiate for Mutual Benefit
Build a relationship where you can negotiate competitive pricing based on volume or loyalty. Long-term relationships often lead to perks like bulk discounts, free shipping, or exclusive promotions. If your business requires flexibility, discuss credit terms or payment plans.
Utilize Supplier Resources
Suppliers offer a number of resources such as points programs, product trainings, customer communications, online support and more. Make sure you understand everything you supplier offers so you can utilize these often-free value add programs.
Plan Ahead
Share your upcoming project pipeline with your supplier so they can ensure product availability. Working with your supplier to manage inventory efficiently will avoid backorders or shortages.
Build a Partnership
Treat your supplier as a partner rather than just a vendor. Work together to solve problems and grow your business. By working closely with your supplier to open up doors to additional resources such as manufacturer reps or corporate talent that may not be readily available.
Use Technology
Many suppliers, including Horizon Distributors, offer online ordering platforms that streamline purchasing and provide access to product catalogs, pricing, and availability. Integrate supplier systems with your business processes for seamless ordering and tracking.
Attend Industry Events
Attend trade shows, supplier-hosted events, or training sessions to strengthen your relationship and stay connected with industry professionals. Use these opportunities to learn about new products and innovations directly from the supplier.
Resolve Issues Professionally
If there’s an issue with an order or product, address it promptly and work collaboratively to resolve it. Avoid blaming or escalating conflicts unnecessarily; focus on solutions.
By fostering a strong relationship with your wholesale supplier, irrigation and landscape professionals can ensure they have a reliable partner to support their business growth, improve operational efficiency, and deliver high-quality services to their customers. Horizon is proud to be a partner to Arizona Green Industry Professionals for over 40 years and look forward to continuing those relationships for many years to come.
Bob Franchetto
Business Development Representative, Horizon Distributors, Inc.
With almost 25 years in the industry, Bob Franchetto is known to be a trusted and reliable resource for all things related to irrigation, power equipment, lighting, fertilizer and pesticides. Horizon Distributors has 11 branches in Phoenix metro, Tucson and Prescott and will be opening a new location in San Tan this summer.
Now part of the Site One team, Cutting Edge Curbing
Sand & Rock Is your one stop shop for all your landscape needs. We are a hauling company with a fully stocked retail yard and a proud distributor for Belgard, Southwest Sod, Evergreen Turf, Phoenix Paver, and AZ Best Block. We carry over fifty colors of landscape rock, river products, soil mixes, rip rap and boulders. Our knowledgeable sales staff will insure that your order is accurate and our experienced drivers will get your materials to you on time. Our certified scale ensures that you are receiving the correct amount of material ordered. Call or come by today.
Monday-Friday 6A-5P Saturday 7A -3P 7540 N 67th Ave, Bldg. A Glendale, AZ 85301 Office 602-353-1020 Fax 602-353-1027
A premier licensed contractor that specializes in helping subcontractors to save money, reduce risk, and grow your company. Managing payroll, employee paperwork, hours, injuries, taxes, and HR can be the hardest part of running a company – that’s where Arizona CLA comes in.
WEST COAST TURF/ WESTERN SOD
Quality, Service, and the Newest Eco-Friendly Natural Grasses & Groundcover
West Coast Turf/Western Sod (WCT/WS) is Arizona’s most recognized name in natural grass. We deliver professional-grade sod and installation services—whether it’s for a meticulous golf superintendent, a PGA Tour event, a landscape contractor wanting the best value, a MLB spring training field, the Super Bowl, or a homeowner looking for the latest in ecofriendly lawns. Same-day easy pick-ups are available at our Scottsdale farm.
The Latest Eco-Friendly Grasses, Drought-Tolerant Groundcover & Trusted Classics
Environmentally friendly natural grass is the future. One standout is Platinum TE Paspalum. “I’ve been in the industry a long time, and nothing outperforms this grass in our desert,” Danek said.
We’re also proud to offer Kurapia sod—a low-growing, drought-tolerant groundcover that delivers a lush, lawnlike look with far less water and maintenance. It can bloom with small white sterile flowers or be mowed for a clean green appearance. Kurapia thrives in a range of soils and performs best in sun or partial shade.
“The market is buzzing over Kurapia sod—it wasn’t available in sod form until now. It costs more than traditional grass, but once people try it, they keep using it. It’s a pretty cool plant,” Danek added.
Another standout is Tahoma 31 Bermuda, quickly becoming an industry favorite. “It’s the most droughttolerant bermuda we’ve seen—with unbeatable wear tolerance, early green-up, fine texture, and top performance in the NTEP under deficit irrigation. From sports fields to home lawns, this grass is exceeding all expectations.”
WCT/WS also stocks St. Augustine, TifTuf, Stadium Zoysia, the soon-to-launch Coachella Bermuda, our popular EZ-Turf, and the ever-reliable BOBSod. “But Tahoma 31, Platinum TE, and Kurapia are generating the most buzz,” Danek said. Mr. Wise Grass—Our Sod Blog
Danek has earned his nickname “Mr. Wise Grass” as the voice behind our turf blog Ask Mr. Wise Grass, sharing tips, answers, and lawn wisdom. “I love helping people get their lawns into top shape,” he said. Want the latest industry info? Ask about our virtual Lunch & Learns.
Contact Us at 888/893-8873, www.westcoastturf.com, Facebook, Instagram, & X: @westcoastturf
Life is short. Sod it!
RESOURCE GUIDE/AD INDEX
COMMERCIAL FLEET VEHICLES
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IRRIGATION PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS
Horizon (800) PVCTURF (782-8873)
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NURSERIES
All Season Wholesale Growers (602) 276-0230
allseasongrowers.com
Please see our ad on page 5
Arid Solutions Nursery (602) 437-5194
aridsolutionsnursery.com
Please see our ad on page 7
Arizona Wholesale Growers (623) 581-3100
azwholesalegrowers.com
Please see our ad on page 3
South Coast Wholesale (888) 326-7256
southcoastwholesale.com
Please see our ad on page Inside Front Cover
SOD/TURF
Evergreen Turf, Inc. (480) 456-1199
evergreenturf.com
Please see our ad on page Back Cover
West Coast Turf (888) 893-8873
westcoastturf.com
Please see our ad on page 9
TREES
Western Tree Company (602) 243-6125
westerntree.com
Please see our ad on page 5
TRUCKS
Chapman ISUZU (480) 752-1540
chapmanchoice.com
Please see our ad on page 22
