Landscape Ontario - November 2015

November 2015 www.horttrades.com

ANNIVERSARY

COLOURS

PM 40013519

Pauline Intven-Casier and Tom Intven celebrate Canadale’s 60 years

These groups made it happen: Thrive charter exhibitors Landscape Ontario Garden Centre Sector Group Landscape Ontario Golden Horseshoe Chapter Landscape Ontario Growers Sector Group Landscape Ontario Snow and Ice Management Sector Group Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation

Together, your efforts build a proud, thriving industry!

2  LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2015

S’ LOGO

SUMERS’ RS’ LOGO , Website edia, etc.)

ON LOGO

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Web impressions

By Dave Braun LO president

I

f you were shopping for a landscape contractor or garden centre, and you Googled yourself, would you like what you saw?

For many years we had a website that read, “under construction.” It was clunky and outdated. We always made excuses about why we weren’t tackling a website upgrade. We told ourselves that we were business-to-business, so customers would find us easily. We told ourselves that people in our industry were already used to dealing with faxes, hand-shakes and personal relationships. After doing quotes, finishing jobs and managing our staff, making sure that we had a modern, professional and up-to-date website was often at the bottom of our list.

Our website was so out of date that I was embarrassed to give my friends my business card. I knew that when they visited our website, it didn’t represent our com-

November, 2015 • Volume 33, No. 10 horttrades.com Landscape Ontario’s mandate is to be the leader in representing, promoting and fostering a favourable environment for the advancement of the horticultural industry in Ontario.

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pany. After thinking for years about updating our website, we finally decided to act.

Mobile is important. Seventy-five per cent of people who look at your website for the first time will visit it via a mobile device.

Clearly, your website needs to be mobile friendly. People aren’t going to stick around long enough to find out what you have to offer. Mobile users want information quick and in easily digestible bites. If your mobile website is difficult to navigate, customers are highly likely to go to the competition.

In fact, research shows that 57 per cent of people will abandon your website if it takes more than three seconds to load. Just because you have a beautiful desktop display, don’t assume that is enough.

Credibility with customers. Every impression on our customer counts. If your website doesn’t give a great first impression, you won’t have the opportunity to give a second. The scary part is that you won’t even know it.

Customers can access you 24/7. I know that it already feels like we work 24 hours a day, but while we are getting the little sleep that we need, your website keeps working for you. Today, customers make buying decisions at any time of day or night.

Typically, decisions like, “Should we re-do

Publisher Lee Ann Knudsen CLM lak@landscapeontario.com, 416-848-7557 Editorial director Sarah Willis sarahw@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5424 Editor Allan Dennis adennis@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5345 Graphic designer Mike Wasilewski mikew@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5343 Sales manager Steve Moyer stevemoyer@landscapeontario.com, 416-848-0708 Integrated solutions representative Greg Sumsion gsumsion@landscapeontario.com, 647-722-6977 Communications coordinator Angela Lindsay alindsay@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5305 Accountant Joe Sabatino jsabatino@landscapeontario.com, 647-724-8585 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO STAFF Darryl Bond, Kim Burton, Myscha Burton, Rachel Cerelli, Tony DiGiovanni CHT, Rob Ellidge, Denis Flanagan CLD, Sally Harvey CLT CLM CAE, Jane Leworthy, Heather MacRae, Kristen McIntyre CHT CEM, Kathy McLean, Linda Nodello, Kathleen Pugliese, Ian Service, Tom Somerville, Martha Walsh, Cassandra Wiesner

the backyard?” aren’t made on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Also, people prefer to make a short list of who they want to reach out to, before they actually speak with you. The better your website, the less reason you give them to keep searching.

Credibility with your own staff. Perhaps surprisingly, your web presence even matters to your staff. When you have a website that your staff is proud of, they are more likely to share it with their friends and family. Staff can’t bring their loved ones to work, so the only means that they have of sharing their work life is via your website.

Credibility with new recruits. Following along the lines of making your current staff proud, your website will also influence potential employees. We typically think as employers that we’re the ones with the control of who we interview and who we do not. The best candidates have choices on where they work.

The more I talk to LO members, the more I hear about leads that were generated from the LO website. If you don’t already know about the benefit of being on the LO website, customers click a “Find a Company” link and it directs them to the various businesses that have chosen to be listed. If your business is listed in the directory, make sure that your website link is there, too.

We can all benefit from more credibility, more profitable sales and a productive work team. Rejuvenate your website, rejuvenate your business.

Dave Braun may be reached at dbraun@landscapeontario.com.

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FEATURES GARDEN GROVE 25TH YEAR SCHOLARSHIPS CANADALE 60TH YEAR

ASSOCIATION NEWS NEW MEMBERS EVENTS INDUSTRY NEWS COLUMNS AD INDEX CLASSIFIEDS

Views expressed are those of the writer concerned. Landscape Ontario assumes no responsibility for the validity or correctness of any opinions or references made by the author. Copyright 2015, reproduction or the use of whole or any part of the contents without written permission is prohibited. Published 11x per year. Rates and deadlines are available on request. Subscription price: $43.51 per year (HST included).

For subscription and address changes, please e-mail subscriptions@landscapeontario.com

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David Lammers, standing, and his brother Paul are celebrating 25 years of success operating their business, Garden Grove Landscaping in Waterdown.

After 25 years, passion continues for brothers at Garden Grove David Lammers’ success story begins with riding his bicycle to south Burlington homes to mow and maintain lawns.

No longer required to ride a bicycle to operate his business, Garden Grove Landscaping, Lammers and his brother Paul this year are celebrating their company’s 25th anniversary.

“Like so many of our fellow Landscape Ontario members, we had nothing at the start, and built this company from ground up,” says David, founder and president of Garden Grove. He was 16 years old when he began his lawn maintenance company. By 18, his income was over $30,000 a year.

The company was originally named Lammers Lawn & Care, but was changed to Garden Grove in 1997. “We also bought our first new vehicle that year,’ remembers Paul. That fleet has grown

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considerably since then.

“I want to share our story, to encourage fellow members across the spectrum, who are all working hard, pursuing their passions, leading our industry and bringing change,” says David.

The brothers agree that the recipe for their success includes excellent customer service, quality and professionalism. “We were raised in a home where church and faith were very important,” says David.

“We learned from an early age the importance of treating people with respect. We brought that same philosophy to our business in our dealings with both customers and staff.”

As an example of how treating customers well leads to long-term loyalty, a number of customers from the early days still use Garden Grove to maintain their properties. “We’re pretty proud of

that fact,” says David.

He says any successful business, no matter its size, must have a focus, and remain focused on what you do well. “Stay true to yourself,” says David.

Garden Grove has moved into large commercial and condo clients, along with high-end boutique residential contracts.

David notes that despite the increase in large contracts, “The original philosophy of service and customer care continues from the beginning of our relationship through the fine details of our work. We focus on creating a trusting beneficial partnership with clients, working collaboratively to deliver high value results.”

The brothers also work with the understanding that success isn’t about only them. “Our dedicated staff is the reason we are successful,” says David.” If you take care of your people, and create a positive atmosphere where growth is encouraged, individuals will achieve their potential.”

Presently, Garden Grove employs 55 fulltime staff members.

In 2001, Garden Grove moved to its present location on 30 acres just outside of

Starting by cutting the lawns at neighbours’ homes, Paul and David Lammers have come a long way in 25 years.

Waterdown. Plans call for an expansion of the quarters. David Lammers is proud he has been working with the City of Hamilton for the past number of years to have all the city’s planning requirements met by the company for its expansion.

The city used Garden Grove as a case study in terms of its zoning issues. “The city didn’t really know much about the situation with landscaping companies,” says David. “We were able to educate officials on the uniqueness of our industry.”

Others have recognized Garden Grove for its high level of service. In 2013, the Burlington Chamber of Commerce named David Lammers as young entrepreneur of the year. “Adopting a reuse-recycle approach with garden waste and organic matter, he is developing compost for use in their tree planting and landscape rejuvenation,” stated the Chamber. As well, Garden Grove won the LO Awards of Excellence in 2014.

This past August the company was named in Snow magazine’s Top 100 Leadership Awards in North America. The magazine determines the leading snow industry contractors, based on 2014-15 winter revenue. “We were honoured to receive this prestigious award at this year’s Accredited Snow Contractors’ Association (ASCA) Executive Summit,” said David.

Coincidentally, another Landscape Ontario member located in Waterdown, Gelderman Landscape Services, also made the list.

At the end of this past September, Garden Grove became the first company in

Canada, and the 13th in North America to become ISO 9001/SN 9001 certified for its snow and ice management division. The ISO 9000 series is based on eight quality management principles. It is a third party audited quality management system that ensures processes and procedures are in place.

“For the past 12 months, we embarked down the road of earning this designation,” says David. “Additionally, our company is working to bring this combination of Quality Management Systems to Canada through its active involvement as members of the ASCA in the U.S.” David Lammers says that the management system in the ASCA’s Industry Standards for Snow and Ice Management are what protects us and our clients from frivolous claims, commonly through slip and falls.”

“Together these systems are the stamp of approval that Garden Grove Landscaping can prove to insurance companies that we are a better risk. We can prove to our clients we are able to deliver the contracted services and help protect them from potential litigation. Certification provides us the leverage needed to bring fairness to the laws and initiatives we are championing with the support of the ASCA,” says David.

The president of Garden Grove not only pursued this initiative, but became extremely involved by providing input into the process. David sits on the ASCA’s Industry Standards Committee, which

Paul and David Lammers are proud of being the only company in Canada to receive the ISO 9000 certification for snow and ice management.

developed the Industry Standards and SN 9001. He is serving as co-chair of this committee in the coming year.

Garden Grove’s service area extends throughout the Greater Toronto Area, including Hamilton-Wentworth, Ancaster, Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, Georgetown, Milton, Halton-Hills and Stoney Creek, with commercial landscape construction service throughout Ontario.

The brothers have come a long way since jumping on their bicycles to service neighbours’ lawns. Both agree that the journey begun 25 years ago in a vocation they still love, has led them to where they want to bring a higher degree of professionalism to our industry. “We spend a good deal of our time looking at how we can help landscapers raise the bar of professionalism. The SN 9001 is an example of how we want to make that happen, both for our company and the people who make a living in this great industry.”

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Scholarships are investments towards industry’s future For nearly 40 years, Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation has provided young people with scholarships to help them pursue formal education within the industry.

Along with the scholarships, the Foundation also provides financial assistance towards research projects.

The Foundation now provides over $60,000 in scholarships each year. In 2015, a total of 42 students were awarded scholarships, who are all listed below.

The students will be introduced during the Awards of Excellence ceremony at Congress on Jan. 12. As well, the scholarship recipients have been invited to the

Legacy Room at Congress.

The Foundation is governed by a volunteer board, comprised of respected industry members. Both the industry and the board lost long-time leader and president of the Foundation with the passing of John Wright this summer. Current members of the Foundation board are Monica van Maris, vice-president; Brian Cocks CLT, secretary; Hank Gelderman CLT, treasurer; Directors, Bob Allen, Tony DiGiovanni CLT, Ben Kobes, Mark Ostrowski, John Peets, Mike Thomas, Dave Turnbull CHT, Neil Vanderkruk and Bob Wilton.

The Foundation offers four ways to contribute: Sponsorship: Join the Foundation by making a pledge — an annual donation or a one-time gift.

Memorial Gift: This is a meaningful way to honour a friend, loved one or professional contact and help support the industry Legacy Gift: Earmark funds through your estate to sustain the horticulture industry. Contact your estate planner or lawyer to include this legacy provision in your will.

Stewardship Program: Many Foundation sponsors share their expertise by speaking to groups, and directing their honorariums to the Foundation.

A donation to benefit Ontario’s horticultural community is tax deductible. More information and forms may be found online at ohtf.ca.

INTRODUCING THIS YEAR’S SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Laura Mclean Casey van Maris Memorial Scholarship $1,000

“I want to thank you for having a scholarship for students like me, going into secondary education for horticulture,” says Mclean. She said it will help her to further her education and to know that there is a professional association for her career. Mclean started her studies at Ridgetown, where she has met many great people who are also interested in the same horticulture field. Coming from a hobby farm north of London, Mclean says she uses her creative skills to make gardens look beautiful.

Brianna Collis Unilock Collaborative Communications Scholarship $1,000

Brianna Collis holds an honours BSc. in Plant Science and is currently a Masters of Landscape Architecture candidate studying at the University of Guelph. Having worked in community and youth organizations, urban gardening, conservation biology, horticulture and soil ecology, she is excited to design landscapes with a creative and integrated framework.

Corina Ottnad Horst Dickert Memorial Scholarship $1,000

As a green roof professional and a strong advocate of native plants, Ottnad has been actively involved with many successful community landscaping projects.

Currently, she is earning her diploma in the Landscape Technology Program at Humber College as part of the Class of 2016.

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Dylan Harding John and Ruth Wright Turf Management Scholarship $2,000

Harding says he is very grateful to have been selected as a recipient of the John and Ruth Wright Turf Management Scholarship. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation.” Harding grew up in Toronto and developed an interest in novel ways to control weeds when he spent several summers working in landscape maintenance. His current research involves the investigation of grass native-bacteria for potential to control dandelions in residential turf systems.

Tyson Jennett Graduate Research Assistant Program $6,000

Jennett is currently in his second year of his Ph.D. in the lab of Dr. Youbin Zheng at the University of Guelph. His thesis aims to create standardized protocols for the characterization of substrate components and to develope substrates for maximizing nutrient retention, specifically phosphorous, in green infrastructure used in landscaping.

Kira Burger Tony DiGiovanni Scholarship $1,000

Burger says she wants to express her gratitude to instructors Claude Smith and Mary Anne Jackson Hughes, her classmate Heidi Wechselberger, and to Landscape Ontario for helping with her receipt of the scholarship. “I came to the horticultural industry with a background in biology, international development and environmental education, and a desire to create a tangible positive impact. I believe that thoughtfully designed and well installed landscapes can enhance environmental quality, be tools for education, improve the livability and enjoyment of urban environments, and contribute to the development of more vibrant and healthy communities.”

2016 OTHF SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Mark Lappan High School Program Scholarship $1,000

Lappan says he very much appreciates the generous scholarship to help offset the costs of his tuition. “I am from the beautiful town of Kingston, and have a passion for the outdoors.” He is currently enrolled in the Landscape Technician program at Humber College to expand his knowledge in horticulture and landscape design in order to help take his business, Mark of Excellence, to the next level.

Brittany Musseau-Drover High School Program Scholarship $1,000

Currently attending the horticulture program at Durham College, Musseau-Drover plans to continue her education in aboriculture and landscape design. She hopes to become a landscape architect, to create magnificent sceneries for everyone to love and enjoy.

Samantha Robertson High School Program Scholarship $1,000

Robertson is currently enrolled in the Co-op portion of Niagara College’s Horticulture Technician program.

She says her passion for horticulture has been with her all her life, having been raised in the industry.

Ben Stormes Post Graduate Scholarship $1,000

“I thank the Landscape Ontario Awards Committee for selecting me for the 2015 Post Graduate Scholarship.

I’m honoured and thrilled.” Stormes is a Cornell Plantations Graduate Fellow in Public Garden Leadership at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. An alumnus of The Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture, as well as The University of Guelph, he says he will continue to engage in rewarding educational experiences in an effort to bring diverse skill sets to the horticulture and public garden fields.

Wayne Lewington Horticulturist Scholarship $500

Lewington presently works at Hamilton Golf and Country Club in course and grounds. Enrolled in deciduous trees at Mohawk College, he is in his final module for his plant identification certificate. “Why didn’t I take these courses 30 years ago? Who knows? But it’s never too late to learn,” says Lewington.

Joseph Greenspon Horticulturist Scholarship $500

“I am very appreciative of the recognition and award,” says Greenspon. He is currently finishing up the Horticultural Industries program at Algonquin College in Ottawa. “I hope to one day open a tree nursery to grow rare and under-used native trees, shrubs and medicinal plants.” He also works at the Central Experimental Farm, looking after research plant material.

Jasdeep Heer Horticulturist Scholarship $500

Heer started off as a part-time landscaper. “It soon became my field of interest,” he says. To further expand his knowledge, he entered Humber College’s Landscape Technician program. “Receiving the Horticulturist Scholarship shows my passion, dedication and motivation to succeed in this field.”

Rana Soldouz Horticulturist Scholarship $500

“I’m very thankful and appreciate this opportunity,” says Soldouz. With a bachelor degree in architecture, she plans to complete her diploma in Environmental Landscape Management by April 2016 from Seneca College.

Nicholas Albanese Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Albanese is in the process of completing the final year of the Landscape Technician Program at Humber College. “I’m most proud of the work I’ve done in my construction and design classes. Over the last three years, I have worked on maintaining gardens and turf at a condominium complex in Collingwood. I hope to include these interests in my future career,” he says.

Melissa Alexander Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Alexander has a love for all things outdoors, in both work and play, from landscaping to camping. “I tend to be optimistic, with a glass-half-full outlook on life and strive for excellence in everything I do,” she says.

Heather Bailey Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

“I was thrilled to learn that I was the recipient of the Foundation’s scholarship,” says Bailey. “I have had a love of gardening since I could hold a trowel. I am excited to pursue a career in urban/community design, specializing in plant selection and environmental psychology.”

Joanne Bowers Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Bowers is grateful to have received the scholarship.

She says, “Growing up in rural Southern England, I gained, from an early age, a deep connection and respect for the landscape around me. My hope is that everything I do in my future career will benefit my environment wherever I am.”

Loannis Eliopoulos Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Eliopoulos says he is extremely proud of all the hard work he put into receiving this scholarship. “I look forward to applying all the knowledge and skills that I have gained at Humber College into all my future endeavours,” he says.

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Jessica Goncalo Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Goncalo describes herself as a book nerd who loves science and the outdoors. She says she excels at school due to a mix of academic effort and an enthusiasm for sustainable horticulture.

Denise Hostrawser Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

From a small community outside of Fergus, Ont., Hostrawser says she fell in love with horticulture when she was working around the world. “I am looking forward to using this scholarship towards my tuition and tools of the trade,” she says.

Yuyeun Jung Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Jung is studying Environmental Landscape Management at Seneca College. She wishes to become a horticultural technician in the landscape industry.

Hye-Ran Kim Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Kim says it was an honour to receive the scholarship.

Originally from South Korea, Kim is a student at Seneca College, King Campus. She finished her co-op work this summer, and says she really enjoyed working in a greenhouse.

Mei Jin Lin Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Jin Lin says she has a passion for the planet, which she hopes to protect and beautify with her knowledge she gains from her studies at Seneca College. “I have received a cheque, which will encourage me to work harder on my environmental program,” says Jin Lin.

Thomas Lombardi Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Lombardi is a second year Landscape Technician student at Humber College. “I enjoy horticulture and landscape construction.” He aspires to continue his studies next year, before launching a career in the industry.

Wei Wang Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Wang is enrolled in the Landscape Technician (Co-op) program in Niagara College. Her dream is to become a landscape architect.

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Joshua Medeiros Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Medeiros describes himself as quirky, knowledge-loving and creative. He says, “I absolutely love nature. I am in this industry not just because I get to work with the diversity of the plant kingdom and observe my efforts in the growth of flora, but moreover to have a career with less negative environmental impact, yet spreads the admiration of our beautiful planet. Thank you Landscape Ontario, for your generosity will help me flourish.”

Nicole Moon Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Moon is a Horticulture Technician student at Niagara College, as well as a Horticulture Therapy student at the Toronto Botanical Garden. After completing these two programs, she says she looks forward to developing gardening experiences that inspire a love of nature in children and young adults. She says, “This (scholarship) will help me significantly in paying for my tuition, especially since my husband and I are both in school right now.”

Althea Reid Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Reid says she has lived between a large, dense city and a vast natural environment her whole life, and wants to combine the two on a scale that will be enjoyable to all. “Being able to create pieces of oases is what I enjoy to do,” says Reid. “The words of ‘thank you’ can’t convey my gratitude in receiving this scholarship. The scholarship allows me to be one step closer to my goal of being in the landscape trade.”

Kathleen Stevens Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Stevens says her horticultural knowledge and its importance within the landscape industry was shaped by her academic studies at Fanshawe College, and strengthened through practical applications in her co-op placements. Upon completion of her Landscape Design diploma this year, she intends to use this knowledge to make effective plant selections that ensure her designs fit into the surrounding conditions and ecology as well as be aesthetically pleasing.

Emily Weber Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Weber says, “I would really like to thank the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation for this award. It has helped contribute to my studies.” Weber says she is thrilled to be in the horticultural industry. “It is a great industry, with amazing people leading us, and I am so glad we have organizations like OHTF to stand by us and support us!”

Shane Williams Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

“Thank you very much for the grant. It is greatly appreciated and needed.” Williams says he first realized his love for the horticulture trade in his home town of Peterborough, during high school. “As my passion for the industry grew, I enrolled at Seneca College, where I now hone my skills for my future in the industry, for which I care so much.

2016 OTHF SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS Miriam Elsworthy Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Elsworthy says, “I am extremely grateful for this scholarship — thank you!”

Currently in her final year at the Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture, Elsworthy says she has a deep love for plants and the environment. “I hope to pursue a career related to the restoration and conservation of our beautiful natural areas in Canada.”

Brad Taub Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000

Taub is in his second year of the Landscape Technician program at Humber College. “I am excited about pursuing opportunities in the field of horticulture, particularly in the areas of sustainable landscaping, botanical gardens, and the grower industry. Taub’s other interests include architectural and garden history, travel, and photography.

Scott Cafarella Cullen Scholarship $2,000

“I am honoured to be the 2015 recipient of this award, which will help me greatly throughout the rest of my studies,” says Cafarella. A third year student in the Master of Landscape Architecture program at the University of Guelph, he is currently studying urban greenways in Hamilton. “In the future, I hope to share my love of plants by continuing to improve access to green space in the built environment.”

Taylor Parks Cullen Scholarship $2,000

Parks is in her second year at Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture, where she says she enjoys learning about a variety of different aspects within the horticultural field. “I’ve developed quite an affinity for aquatic plants, ponds, and natural swimming pools. I am very grateful to have been nominated by my school for this award, and am very thankful to the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation and Mark Cullen to have been selected.”

Yujing Ma Cullen Scholarship $2,000

Ma says she deeply appreciates Mark Cullen for the chance to win this scholarship. A student in Fanshawe College Horticulture Program, Ma is an International student, who says she is deeply obsessed with the plant world, and has great passion for the industry.

Heather MacKay Cullen Scholarship $2,000

MacKay is a second-year student in the Landscape Technician diploma program at Humber College, with a background in market gardening and publishing. “I’m also a research assistant at the college, working on forest regeneration in the Humber Arboretum, in partnership with the Centre for Urban Ecology.”

Erik Murray Cullen Scholarship $2,000

From Caledon East , Murray is taking the Environmental Landscape Management Program at Seneca College.

Anna Hynd Cullen Scholarship $2,000

Hynd, a second year student in the Horticulture Technician Program at Niagara College, says it is a perfect place to combine her love of learning and passion for gardening. “I am grateful for this scholarship and look forward to a long and happy career in horticulture.”

Sarah Cudmore Cullen Scholarship $2,000

“I thank the Ontario Horticulture Trades Foundation for providing me with the Mark Cullen Scholarship.” She is currently enrolled in the second year of the Horticulture Diploma Program at the University of GuelphRidgetown Campus. “I’m interested in propagation, as well as the management of seedlings,” says Cudmore.

Joshua Salverda Cullen Scholarship, Apprenticeship $1,000

Salverda has worked at The Garden Wizard in Milton for the past eight years. He says, since he began working at The Garden Wizard, “I enjoy making a difference in people’s lives. Working as the operations manager in an outdoor atmosphere has been the best experience, and hopefully for many more years to come.”

Jordan Morgan Cullen Scholarship $4,000

Morgan is from Baden, Ont., and is a student at the Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture.

“I have a passion for all aspects of horticulture, specifically arboriculture.” Morgan expresses a special thanks to all those who made it possible for him to receive the Cullen Scholarship. “I look forward to furthering my education.”

Also receiving scholarships were: Macormick Foulds, Niagara College, High School Program $1,000; Cole Rix-Littley, Fanshawe College, High School Program $1,000; Elena Dunham, Fanshawe College, Horticulturist Scholarship, $500; Christine Keller, Humber College, Horticulturist Scholarship, $500; Zhenwei De, Seneca College, Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000; Seth Duncan, Humber College, Post Secondary Scholarship $1,000; Kevin Kosempel, St. Clair College, Mark Cullen Scholarship $2,000; Kevin Gascoigne, Algonquin College, Mark Cullen Scholarship $2,000, and August Bergermann, Mohawk College, Mark Cullen Scholarship $1,000.

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The garden centre at Canadale Nurseries consistently wins awards in LO’s Awards of Excellence competition through the hard work of the people in this photo, from left, Lesley Livingston, Connie Silcox, Adele Ashford, Jim Stinson, Tom Intven and Pauline Intven-Casier.

Family celebrates 60 years of growth at Canadale Nurseries Canadale Nurseries in St. Thomas is celebrating 60 years in business.

From humble beginnings in 1955, the years have brought tremendous growth and recognition to the family-owned and -operated business.

Now into the third generation of family members, it all began with Bill and Joan Intven, who emigrated from Holland in 1950. Five years later, the couple opened Canadale Nurseries on a former tobacco farm.

The newly-arrived couple felt assimilating into Canada was very important, wanted a name to reflect their new country. The ‘dale’ was combined with the first few letters in Canada, as many streets surrounding the property of their new business ended with the word.

The family’s second generation, Tom Intven and Pauline Intven-Casier, now oversee the business, which features an award-winning garden centre and nursery. Following his graduation in 1977 with a degree in plant biology from Queen’s University, Tom moved into the family business. Pauline began managing the garden centre after graduating from Uni-

versity of Western Ontario in 1984.

Now the third generation is involved in the family business. Tom’s daughter Kate currently supervises the garden centre, while other children, nieces and nephews have worked in the garden centre over the past few years.

Over the years, Canadale has received numerous awards for its plants, garden centre and business operation.

One that holds great pride for the family was the The Better Business Bureau of Western Ontario Business Integrity Award. It was a proud moment for the family as Tom and Pauline joined their parents to receive the award. Another major award was Landscape Ontario’s Consumers’ Choice Award as Ontario’s Best Garden Centre.

Bill Intven died in 2002, and Joan passed away in January 2015 in her 95th year.

“I grew up in the business. When my parents began Canadale, I was three months old,” says Intven. Shortly after graduating from university, Tom Intven attended an International Plant Propagators’ Society (IPPS) meeting in Colum-

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bus, Ohio. “It really kindled a love of propagation in me,” says Intven.

The meeting also saw him become very interested in the IPPS, in which he later served as president for three years.

“It really allowed me to network with growers from the U.S. and around the world,” says Intven. He added that the process was a great benefit in evolving his wholesale business.

In the early 1980s, Tom Intven became president of Landscape Ontario’s London Chapter. He eventually served on the provincial board of directors, and was named LO president for two years, 2011-2012. “I really enjoyed my time as president,” says Intven. He believes that the Association serves the important role of giving the industry a strong voice. “Our industry is better served by acting collaboratively rather than operating individually,” says Intven.

Rapid growth also took place at Canadale Nurseries in the 1980s. Intven says that at the time Canadale developed a plan to create year-round employment.

“We also developed an RRSP program and incentives to create loyalty among a core employee group,” says Intven. “This group all had a passion for plants, and we all shared the same vision.”

Some of the people in the group continue to help Canadale maintain high standards. They include assistant man-

ager Jim Stinson, who has been at Canadale for 30 years, and office manager Connie Silcox for 25 years. Others include assistant nursery manager, Robb Parmeter; manager, Rick Graham; Water manager, Shane Good; propagation manager, Jeff Haveron; and garden centre supervisors, Lesley Livingstone and Jess McDonald.

“Like any other organization, your business is only as good as your staff,” says Intven. “As an owner, you must ensure your staff has a passion for what they do.”

Intven says that every few years Canadale reviews its goals and plans. “That needs to take place to ensure the business stays up to date,” he says. “In today’s world, business is always changing.”

In the garden centre, recommendations by consultants have helped to evolve the business. A major change took place at the garden centre following a trip

by Intven to South Africa in 2005. Upon returning home he built display gardens in the retail area, including three home fronts. Many customers, especially new gardeners, use the displays to get ideas to select their plants. Intven says it’s important to invest in the improvement of a garden centre in order for it to thrive.

He notes that most customers at garden centres are women between the ages of 30 and 50, and they want a place that is comfortable to shop, with a good layout and product mix. A number of years ago, hard surfaces were improved in the garden centre to provide easier shopping experiences.

Intven also invested in the nursery with the installation of a pulse watering system. He estimates that the new pro-

It was a proud moment in 2001 for the family when Tom and Pauline joined their parents, Bill and Joan to receive the Better Business Bureau of Western Ontario Business Integrity Award.

cess saves the operation about 40 per cent in water use over the old system.

Intven explains that the pulse system, along with saving water from running out of the pots, reducing leaching of the nutrients from the pot.

He says that the garden centre industry is in a transition phase presently with the baby boomers changing over to Gen Y shoppers. “This generation wants to be educated about plants, but they are also impulse buyers.”

On the nursery side of the business, Tom has seen the industry go from fieldgrown to container-grown plants. “There is also a demand for on-time delivery, and

it is expected that all plant material is of the highest quality.”

The well-respected nurseryman says that there is a huge stock shortage in the U.S., and prices will rise, while the lower Canadian dollar has dropped over 30 cents below the U.S. dollar. Says Intven, “Of course every nurseryman faces the question of what will I plant, and what numbers will I need?”

He forecasts that growers will need to raise prices. “Plant material is still undervalued,” says Intven. He is confident in the future of the green industry which continues to change, but grow.

Canadale Nurseries has a strong reputation in the industry, thanks to the staff members in photo.

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 11

Congress 2016 will provide tools for the trade Inquiries are pouring in to the LO office with everyone wanting to know more about Congress 2016.

The green industry seems anxious to wrap up 2015 and kick-off 2016 with the industry event of the year — Canada’s premier green industry trade show and conference, Congress. Staff at Landscape Ontario’s home office are anxious, too. The show team has been busy getting ready for the most wonderful time of the year. The 2016 edition will run Jan. 12 to 14, with Warm-up Monday events on Jan. 11.

The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Symposium will hold its 51st annual event. It’s a full day of technical sessions in partnership with Lawn Life, the presenting sponsor. Attendees will qualify for IPM Council of Canada CECs. The IPM Leadership Award will also be announced.

The Landscape Designer Conference has positioned itself as a must-attend event for designers. This full day of sessions includes lunch and will be held at the International Plaza Hotel, International Ballroom (across the street from the Toronto Congress Centre). The theme for 2016 will be Designing for Demographics and includes everything from Adam Bienenstock’s opening keynote on natural playgrounds, to edibles to designing around disabilities and for mental health and wellness. See the full schedule at LOcongress.com.

Also in the hotel is Landscape Ontario’s Peer-to-Peer Workshop. This interactive event was designed with the over-burdened business owner in mind.

By working with facilitators Jacki Hart CLM and Tim Kearney CLM, delegates will learn tools, creativity and receive support to find helpful solutions and fresh approaches to common problems business owners face.

All this before the trade show even opens.

Throughout the show

Congress ’16 delegates are in for a treat with Hardscape Live. This new attraction on the show floor is courtesy of Landscape Ontario’s Hardscape Committee.

Pat McCrindle will school the audience

on hardscape installation techniques with a live build over the three days of the show, from 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. McCrindle has installed eight million sq. ft. of pavers over a 30-year career. He has the highest possible accreditation as an instructor for the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute, and has been the main speaker at Hardscape North America. He’s a dynamic presenter and knows what he is talking about.

Each day the Congress Conference opens in the big ballroom with a keynote and coffee, followed by informative and entertaining professional development sessions at the Toronto Congress Centre, South Building. Life Lessons at Lunch will also be held in the ballroom, and will provide delegates with another opportunity to network and learn in entertaining and interactive sessions. Owners-only workshops each afternoon will focus on key business issues. Due to the popularity of the workshops, there is typically limited seating.

Conference Day One, Tuesday, opens with a keynote from Kate Davis and her tips for Balancing Life with Humour. A speaker, writer, comedian and actress, Davis has the unique ability to find humour in any situation and to offer creative solutions to defuse the frustrations in the home and workplace. Her insight and outspoken character provide a powerful combination to help companies empower their staff with effective tools for managing stress and sustaining motivation.

Also running from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. is the Legacy Room. An open invitation goes to our members to drop in for refreshments and meet with industry pioneers and innovators, compliments of the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation. Building on Day One excitement, walk across the street to the International Plaza Hotel and upstairs to the big ballroom for the ticketed event, Awards of Excellence ceremony. Winners of the 2016 construction, maintenance and design programs will receive their awards this evening. Attendees are treated to a disco-themed event, as well as refreshments and entertainment, courtesy of presenting partner G&L Group and

12 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2015

Supporting partner Connon Nurseries, CBV Holdings. Get ready for a night to remember.

Day Two, Wednesday, begins with a members-only Annual General Meeting at the Plaza Hotel. Join fellow members and have your voice heard.

Across the street at the Congress Centre, Conference highlights include a keynote from Disney’s manager of the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival Eric Darden. The entertaining and awesome Ron Rosenberg will help delegates with their memory and motivation. Andrew Wall, highly sought-after business coach, is welcomed back to Congress Conferences. A newly-energized ticketed event will be the Strengthening Women in Horticulture presentation

by Elizabeth Mills, president and CEO of Workplace Safety and Prevention Services. This not-for-profit organization has a mandate to meet the health and safety needs of 154,000 businesses, representing 3.8 million employees across Ontario. She has over 20 years of executive leadership.

Find your appetite and dancing shoes for the Tailgate Party, hosted by LO’s Show Committee. There is no entry fee thanks to the partnership of Permacon Group and LO’s Hardscape Committee.

Enjoy dinner, music and great prizes with your peers. Meet up with colleagues and friends and make some new ones, too.

Closing day, Thursday, at Congress brings energy, innovation and offers strategies for a successful year (not to mention a Mike Riehm-inspired putting contest down a show floor aisle.)

Join noteworthy author Andy Masters for insight and practical strategies into your customer service values and methods and the infamous Mike Mandel for his presentation that will deliver entertainment and inspiration at the closing Life Lessons at Lunch. All this is taking place while the Irrigation Conference is running, including lunch courtesy of Rain Bird and Toro, and refreshments, thanks to Hunter.

The trade show floor in 2016 boasts another new feature, Speaker’s Corner.

This up-close and personal approach to learning will see safety take the front seat. The Dig Safe alliance will highlight dos and don’ts and prepare contractors for the upcoming season. Green industry software platforms will also be highlighted and offer delegates a plethora of options for the upcoming season.

Schedule details, registration and pricing information are all at LOcongress.com.

ASSOCIATION NEWS

Family members of John Wright, Peter Olsen and Casey van Maris gathered for ceremonial tree plantings on Oct. 21 at LO home office.

Memorial tree planting honours industry pioneers A ceremonial tree planting honoured the memories of three members whose work “benefitted the future of generations working in the industry.”

Family members joined the provincial board of directors on Oct. 21 on the grounds of LO home office to dedicate trees in the names of John Wright, Peter Olsen and Casey van Maris.

LO executive director Tony DiGiovanni told those present for the ceremony that the three men being honoured were all extremely important to the industry.

John Wright was an Honorary Life Member and president of the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation. He passed away on Aug. 24, 2015. Peter Olsen was a founding member of Landscape Ontario and chair of the Farm Safety Association. He passed away on

July 8, 2015. Casey van Maris, a founding member of Landscape Ontario, passed away in 1997.

A tree originally planted by Casey van Maris to mark the opening of the LO offices, was dedicated to his memory.

Family members present included Monica, Anna, Kim, Barbara, Alex, Robert and Cassie.

Waterloo Chapter planted the trees in honour of John Wright and Peter Olsen. DiGiovanni told those present that Phil Dickie of Fast Forest of Kitchener planted the trees, which were donated

by M. Putzer Hornby Nursery. “When I asked owner John Putzer how much the trees would cost, he said, ‘There is no way I charge for memorial trees,’” said DiGiovanni.

The LO executive director also said

that at a past presidents’ meeting, it was decided to look at creating a memorial garden grove on the LO site. Dave Wright and Paul Brydges have volunteered to develop a master plan for the memorial garden.

Wright family members in attendance were David, Julie, Richard and close family friend Randy Adams.

Family members for the memorial dedication of Peter Olsen included Doreen, Tanya and Leah. In an emotional talk, Tanya said, “My dad always showed us that you can have passion about this industry than is more than simply making a living.”

WATERLOO CHAPTER BRINGS OUTDOOR CLASSROOM TO GUELPH SCHOOL

Sir Isaac Brock Public School in Guelph was the site of this year’s Waterloo Chapter school greening project.

Each year the Chapter chooses a school to receive landscaping services from the professional members of Landscape Ontario. This year the members WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 13

e

E

ASSOCIATION NEWS

Members of the Waterloo Chapter were on hand to officially open the outdoor classroom at Sir Isaac Brock Public School in Guelph.

created an outdoor classroom with armour stone seats. As well, 11 trees and three large shrubs were planted in the play area near the classroom.

Project coordinator Thomas Blatter CLM, of Dreamestate Landscaping in Guelph, estimates the project value at $25,000. It took volunteer crews three days, or 32 man hours.

“A revitalized green space and outdoor classroom was created by volunteers from our Waterloo Chapter,” said Blatter.

An official opening took place on Sept. 23, with the entire school community coming out for the project unveiling.

This included all students and staff, parents and family members. The principal shared words of welcome and gratitude for the Chapter’s work. There was also a butterfly release, which was accompanied by the students showing their school spirit in singing their school’s anthem.

Councillor Phil Allt from the City of Guelph also attended the unveiling and shared some words of welcome on behalf of the city.

“Our mandate as a Chapter is to promote the green industry, show how landscaping is so important and provide

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“Our hope is to let them see how we can provide landscape makeovers and show them what we do for people every day.”

Companies that provided manpower and product included Ace Lawn Care, Allgreen Tree Service, Alltask Property Improvement, Burch Landscape Services, Coleman Equipment, Compact Sod, Connect Equipment, Creative Landscape Depot, Crewson Corners Landscaping and Home Maintenance, Don Prosser Landscape Design, Dreamestate Landscaping, Fast Forest, Guelph Building Supply, Guelph Power Sweeping, Johns Nursery, Lafarge, Orchid Gardenscapes, Platinum Stone Design, Snider TLC, St. Jacobs Country Gardens, TNT Property Maintenance, Tri-Green and UPI Energy.

“It really is all about our members who donate, contribute, and sacrifice paying work days to make a difference.

Thanks again to all those who go above and beyond and reach out to the community and change it for all to enjoy,” said Blatter.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

GERBERAS NAMED PLANT OF THE YEAR

BY CANADA BLOOMS

Gelderman landscape giveaway Gelderman Landscape Services celebrated its 60th anniversary by offering a $10,000 new landscape giveaway. After receiving a number of ‘compelling’ nominations, the winners of Share the Care Contest were Allan and Lisa Logie of Burlington. From left, Chris Mace, VP Landscape Operations; and Nathan Helder, president and owner; congratulate Allan and Lisa Logie on their new landscape.

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Gerberas, the longtime favourite houseplant and cut-flower for Canadians, is now in the Garvinea Sweet series from Florist Holland. It is especially suited for outdoor use in both containers and gardens. It produces larger blooms than the indoor version.

Intensive plant breeding, inter-specific hybridization and tissue culture propagation have combined to make the Garvinea Sweets a reliable garden performer in the spring, summer and fall with increased disease tolerance, cold tolerance and an excellent re-bloom habit.

Proven locally at the University of Guelph and Landscape Ontario trial garden program during the 2014 and 2015 growing seasons, Garvinea Sweets were grown in containers, as well as in three different planting beds under a wide range of watering and fertilizer regimes.

As long as the soil was well drained, these plants thrived and bloomed continuously from planting time until winter arrived. As a fringe benefit, the flower stem length on the Garvinea is long enough to allow use as a cut flower in the home.

Consumers will have a head start on buying the beautiful Garvinea Sweets at Canada Blooms from Mar. 11 to 20 at the Pick Ontario booth. The following selections will be available for purchase at Canada Blooms, Sweet Glow (orange), Sweet Heart (pink), Sweet Honey

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TORONTO MEMBERS CREATE UNIQUE ACCESSIBILITY PROJECT AT MARKHAM SCHOOL

Members of Toronto Chapter are being hailed for making green space history in York Region.

The first universally accessible schoolyard opened at James Robinson Public School in Markham with music and a parade of people of all abilities at official opening ceremonies on Sept. 29.

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It was a proud time for members of Toronto Chapter when they took part in the official opening of the first universally accessible school yard at James Robinson Public School in Markham.

Toronto Chapter became involved during the past year. According to Jeanette McLellan, a Special Education Resource Teacher at the school, the contributions, contacts and expertise of LO members were essential to the project’s final construction and planting.

Chapter members Ryan Heath, Mike Watson and Richard Hawkins contacted suppliers, who came on board with donated or discounted supplies, including limestone screening, soil, mulch, sod, concrete and armour stone. Others donated equipment and operator time; trees came from Trees for Life Canada.

Over 50 Landscape Ontario members, contractors and suppliers collaborated and made the dream come true for some of the hardest to reach children in the community.

According to Heath, “Donations generated through our Chapter freed up the school’s efforts to raise funds for an accessible play structure.”

The accessibility project was recognized even before it was completed, with a Character Award for 2014, the Premier’s Award for 2015 and a nomination for the David Onley Award.

The specialized green space features 550 metres of paved learning trail that links an outdoor stage and classroom, food, shade and sensory gardens, and a naturalized accessible play zone. Children of all abilities can exercise, safely travel, create, build, experiment and problem solve collaboratively in a natural setting.

The area features a large accessible sensory sand pit, a secondary serpentine trail, log forest, nature nest and shaded seating. The park has been designed to meet the needs of people (young and old) living with low vision, mobility issues, physical disabilities and sensory needs.

The school has extended heartfelt appreciation to Ryan Heath of Royal Stone, Richard Hawkins of Hawkins Contracting

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LONDON CHAPTER CONTINUES SUPPORT OF PARKWAY PROJECT

Members of Landscape Ontario’s London Chapter were again front and centre in the latest involvement with the Veterans Memorial Parkway Community Program.

Oct. 3 saw a large number of volunteers brave wind and cold to plant 300 trees along the Parkway.

Participating companies who helped prepare the planting site and assist in planting 300 trees include Coldstream Land Escape Company, Jay McKinnon Company, MPH Hardscapes, PGS Landscape, Parkside Landscaping, Rural Roots Landscaping, Sifton Properties and Grant Harrison. Chapter director of the VMP project, Michael Martins thanked the owners of these companies for supporting the project.

Volunteers delivered the 50 mm caliper trees to the planting sites and prepared for the planting by drilling holes for the trees with a 48 in. auger bit. Chapter members also assisted in planting the trees.

LO AGM ON JAN. 13

Join other Landscape Ontario members at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Jan. 13, 2016 at the International Plaza Hotel, 655 Dixon Road, Toronto.

Registration and breakfast commence at 7 a.m., with the meeting following at 8 a.m. The AGM is where LO members find out what has happened in the Association in 2015; where the WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 19

Association is going in 2016 and to voice opinions on issues concerning the industry. Please RSVP Kathleen Pugliese at 1-800-265-5656, ext 2309, or kathleenp@landscapeontario.com.

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CERTIFICATIONS: If you currently do not have any certifications but do have the experience we would be prepared to help you get certified while in our employ.

We are looking for an individual to work with our other Project Managers as a member of the team to coordinate and manage installations.

You will be responsible for an equal percentage of our customer base to ensure that complete customer satisfaction has been achieved. You will be the main contact for the client from inception to completion. Within your percentage of our client base you will also be responsible for more complicated service issues as a consultant to the tech. where a service technician has failed to resolve the issue.

This position is suited to an individual that has worked hands on with irrigation for several years and is now ready to use all that experience to manage others working in the field. You will report directly to the General Manager.

For more information or if you are a candidate for this position please contact or send a resume to Bill MacDonald at billmacdonald@angusirrigation.org

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GREENTRADE EXPO HAS GREAT PLANS ON THE HORIZON

Bruce Morton, Ottawa director and chair of GreenTrade Expo, has announced two great changes happening for GreenTrade Expo in 2016 and 2017.

“The committee has continued to make great changes to the trade show, this year celebrating its 23rd anniversary,” says Morton.

The inaugural suppliers’ awards, known formally as The Ottawa Awards of Distinction, were an astounding success last year, with a sellout ballroom of 130 members. This success has led the GreenTrade committee to change the awards venue.

This year’s celebration will take place on location at the Trade show, the EY Centre, with room for even more celebrations.

Back by popular demand is the Casino Night, sponsored by Permacon. This year there will be three new awards: the Legacy Award, the Community Volunteer Award and the New Member Award. This ticketed event will take place on Feb. 9, from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m.

The second great announcement from GreenTrade Expo is that it will be a two-day trade show. Presented by the Ottawa Chapter, GreenTrade Expo continues to expand in exhibitors and attendance. The organizing committee has decided, after requests by exhibitors and careful thought and investigation, that 2017 will present a two-day trade show, with the awards taking place the Wednesday evening of the event.

For more information on GreenTrade Expo, visit greentrade. ca, or contact Martha Walsh at marthawalsh@greentrade.ca.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Support for industry’s future I read Tony DiGiovanni’s column on my laptop with pleasure.

Over 26 years you and your associates have brought Landscape Ontario to a very high standard indeed. I enjoy your positive energy and innovative tone, which makes me believe no one sits on their hands in your office.

Despite the adage, “There are no retired farmers, only tired farmers,” I am about to retire and put my fading energies into leaving the fields of Blithe Hill in good heart, and our woodlots healthy and productive. Fortunately my children and grandchildren have their own interest in the farm. I am more than blessed with a small but excellent staff who back up my hope to keep the developers and gravel pits far off the horizon.

All this spells the end to Blithe Hill Nurseries’ membership in Landscape Ontario. I would, however, like to make a donation to the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation, which funds research and scholarships. I will forward the cheque to you by post.

With every best wish for the future, Jean Watson Blithe Hill Nurseries

20 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2015

NEW MEMBERS

Calvin Wyga 11503 22nd Sdrd, Limehouse, ON L0P 1H0 Tel: 905-877-1992 Membership Type: Active

Mountsberg Excavating Inc

DURHAM

Laurie Coverdale PO Box 65529, Dundas, ON L9H 6Y6 Tel: 905-627-1301 Membership Type: Associate Carrie Zimmerman Stevensville, ON Membership Type: Horticultural

Active Water Haulage

Adrian Timmermans 420 McAuley Rd, Ennismore, ON K0L 1T0 Tel: 705-292-5670 Membership Type: Chapter Associate

Lewis Property Maintenance

David Lewis 3900 2nd Conc, Stouffville, ON L4A 7X4 Tel: 905-903-6454 Membership Type: Active

LONDON Huron-Perth Mobile Rust Control

Postech Durham Inc

Shannon Phillips 336 Victoria Ave N, Lindsay, ON K9V 5T6 Tel: 905-767-0699 Membership Type: Associate

Valleyview Landscapes Ltd.

Esko Remmel Concession 2 - Brock, Sunderland, ON L0C 1H0 Tel: 905-862-0365 Membership Type: Active

Van Staveren’s Landscaping

Mildred Sullivan 7615 Leskard Rd, Orono, ON L0B 1M0 Tel: 905-983-6363 Membership Type: Active

Steve Lautenslager 130 Scott St, PO Box 975, Wingham, ON N0G 2W0 Tel: 519-492-0994 Membership Type: Associate Darby Anderson London, ON Membership Type: Horticultural

OTTAWA Irish Pond Transit Inc.

Jason Nairn 6104 Perth St, Richmond, ON K0A 2Z0 Tel: 613-838-5150 x2243 Membership Type: Associate

Ottawa Turf

GEORGIAN LAKELANDS Richard’s Rockery

Richard Given 359 Hwy 6, South Bruce Peninsula, ON N0H 2T0 Tel: 519-534-3312 Membership Type: Associate

GOLDEN HORSESHOE Barcon Construction Inc

Derek Bartels 12 Sunnylea Cres, Grimsby, ON L3M2Y1 Tel: 905-359-0784 Membership Type: Interim

Shawn Pederson 265 Tewsley Dr, Ottawa, ON K1V 0Y6 Tel: 613-913-6660 Membership Type: Chapter Associate

TORONTO Artistic Interlock Inc.

Peter Marchese 33 Blue Springs Rd, Toronto, ON M6L 2T5 Tel: 416-648-4072 Membership Type: Interim

BEC Equipment

Miles Burgess 1780 Bonhill Rd, Mississauga, ON L5T 1C8 Tel: 905-670-7678 Membership Type: Chapter Associate

Caledonia Garden Centre

Mike McNally 652 Hwy 6 N, Caledonia, ON N3W 1M6 Tel: 905-765-6639 Membership Type: Active

CEC Services Limited (Aurora)

Kevin Beswick 16188 Bathurst St, King City, ON L7B 1K5 Tel: 905-713-3711 Membership Type: Chapter Associate

Devron Sales Ltd

Dave Cooke 11675 Burnaby Rd, Wainfleet, ON L0S 1V0 Tel: 905-899-2047 Membership Type: Associate

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Ecosense Irrigation Solutions

Dennis Vanderveen 28 Colston Crt, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 9Z2 Tel: 905-889-4100 Membership Type: Active

European Landscaping Inc

Johnny Bereas 20 Murray Spiers Crt, Markham, ON L6C 3C5 Tel: 416-414-9500 Membership Type: Active

Green Side Up Property Maintenance, Landscape Design and Build

Jay Saveall 314-145 Wellington St W, Aurora, ON L4G 3L9 Tel: 905-392-7123 Membership Type: Active

Stonecrete Inc

Tony Furfaro 210 St Urbain Dr, Vaughan, ON L4H 3K8 Tel: 416-704-6790 Membership Type: Active

Stoneridge Interlocking

Paolo Valentini 2420 Arbordale Dr, Mississauga, ON L5A 2M6 Tel: 905-232-2325 Membership Type: Active

Thorncrete Construction Limited

David Sibbald 381 Spinnaker Way, Concord, ON L4K 4N4 Tel: 905-669-6510 Membership Type: Active

WATERLOO 5 Star Paving

Derek Resendes 1370 Main St E, Cambridge, ON N1R 5S7 Tel: 519-624-1712 Membership Type: Chapter Associate

WINDSOR Blake Escape Landscaping

Mark Blake 620 North Rear Rd, RR 2, Maidstone, ON N0R 1K0 Tel: 519-723-9065 Membership Type: Active

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EVENTS

December 8

Ottawa Chapter meeting

Bookmark horttrades.com/comingevents for up-to-date event information.

November 17

Ottawa Chapter meeting

Algonquin College, Ottawa Join fellow members for this month’s meeting, with the topic, Finding good staff and mentorship — meeting with members and students of Algonquin College Horticultural Industries Program. Learn about opportunities for mentorship, and meet the students who are our industry’s future. Need more information? Contact Ottawa Chapter coordinator Martha Walsh at martha@ landscapeontario.com, or call 613-796-5156.

November 18

Growers annual dinner meeting

Teatro Conference Centre, 121 Chisholm Dr., Milton Details and registration are to follow. This event includes dinner, guest speakers and lots of opportunity to network with your peers in the industry. For more information, contact Kathleen Pugliese at kathleenp@landscapeontario.com.

November 19

Windsor Chapter meeting

Dominion Golf, 6125 Howard Ave., Oldcastle Find out what is up and coming for Proven Win-

ners products in 2016 with Rob Naraj. This will be a colourful presentation, which all will enjoy.

November 26

Georgian Lakelands Awards of Distinction 2015

Orillia Highwayman Inn, 201 Woodside Drive, Orillia Let’s thank those that go the extra mile and make a difference. Nominate your choice of Landscape Ontario company or a staff person for Awards of Distinction. Contact Rachel for more info at rachel@landscapeontario.com, or 1-800-265-5656, ext. 2354.

December 2

Waterloo Chapter meeting

145 Dearborn Place, Waterloo Join us for the last Chapter meeting of 2015 featuring an open forum roundtable discussion.

Help support the Knights of Columbus Annual Christmas Toy Drive. Please bring packs of batteries or a new toy to donate. Members are encouraged to bring a potential new member to monthly Chapter meetings.

Royal Canadian Legion, 3500 Fallowfield Road, Ottawa Sales Techniques to Guarantee Success through Closing Up Front features Terry Ledden of Sales About Face. Take advantage of this opportunity to learn about an industry-relative topic, great networking with your peers and lunch. Need more information, then contact Ottawa Chapter coordinator Martha Walsh at mwalsh@landscapeontario.com, or call 613-796-5156.

January 11

IPM Symposium

Toronto Congress Centre, Cohen Ballroom IPM Symposium is from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Held in conjunction with Congress Trade Show and Conference, attendees will qualify for IPM Council of Canada CECs. January 12 - 14

Congress Trade Show and Conference Toronto Congress Centre 650 Dixon Road, Toronto Congress is the ideal place to kick off 2016 and find new products, ideas, equipment, tools, services and connections for your business to grow and prosper. Landscape Ontario’s Congress is Canada’s largest green industry trade show and conference. For more information please visit LOcongress.com.

“GROWING TOGETHER” Find out what is happening in your Association – participate at the AGM The AGM is where LO members can find out what has happened in the Association in 2015; where the Association is going in 2016 and to voice your opinion on issues concerning the industry – join other members at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on:

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Registration and breakfast commence at 7:00 a.m., with the meeting to follow at 8:00 a.m.

International Plaza Hotel and Conference Centre, 655 Dixon Rd, Toronto

Please RSVP Kathleen Pugliese at kpugliese@landscapeontario.com 22 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2015

INDUSTRY NEWS

Dr. Darby McGrath, Vineland’s Research Scientist, Nursery and Landscape, is joined by her assistants with the highway trees project, Erin Agro, Research Technician, Horticultural Production Systems, and Jason Henry, Research Technician, Nursery and Landscape.

Highway trees project a continuation of 401 planting Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) is continuing the task to develop guidelines to sustain healthy trees along highways.

Dr. Darby McGrath, Research Scientist, Nursery and Landscape, at Vineland,

says “In preliminary results from the first planting season, we found not all trees classified as urban-tolerant are suitable for planting in unmaintained sites.” She points out that nursery stock size is also an important consideration for transplant

survival, particularly in areas where weed competition is high and moisture content is variable. “The team also discovered shrubs provide important benefits to trees in roadside ecosystems because they are able to acclimate to challenging environments and help surrounding trees adapt to harsh site conditions.”

Vineland has designed two experimental test planting sites, one at its Vineland campus and the other at Fifty Rd. on the northbound side of the QEW in Niagara.

Back in 2010, Landscape Ontario, Vineland and the Ministry of Transportation planted 7,000 trees at the intersections of the 401 and 427, near Pearson Airport, and 401 and Allen Expressway at Yorkdale Mall. Trees were supplied by Vineland, Braun Nurseries, Willowbrook Nurseries and Sheridan Nurseries.

Dr. McGrath says her team will be accessing those sites this fall to check on the survival of the trees planted at the Toronto sites. She says since those sites were planted, the research team has found there are a number of factors that determine the success of trees in difficult environments along highways.

“There are many types of trees available for planting in urban environments, however, planting near multi-lane highways where follow-up care for trees is limited, means that trees need to be robust to overcome the transplant and establishment periods,” says Dr. McGrath.

At each of the Niagara sites, eight different tree species, including Autumn Blaze Freeman maple, Kentucky coffeetree, Cully river birch, Triumph elm, Glenleven linden, Common hackberry, trembling aspen and silver maple have been planted. Three types of shrubs have also been planted at the sites. These include grey dogwood, nannyberry and common ninebark.

The team selected the trees from the urban-tolerant trees project team, led

by Thelma Kessel of Lacewing Horticulture, which included Sean Fox, assistant manager, University of Guelph Arboretum; Jennifer Llewellyn, OMAFRA nursery crops specialist; and Dr. Glen Lumis, professor emeritus, University of Guelph.

The list of trees from that project may be found at gfl.me/h2Fq. “Vineland will continue to monitor the sites for tree survival and growth over the next two seasons. The research will also be expanded next year to examine the benefits of mixed plantings for improving plant growth, water and nutrient retention. The team will at the same WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 23

INDUSTRY NEWS time investigate whether mixed plantings can offer trees buffering from root shading, wind and salt spray damage,” says Dr. McGrath.

The Vineland team expects to rewrite specs for trees planted along busy highways. Those specs will be ongoing until the funding ends in 2018. Dr. McGrath expects that the study and process to change provincial and municipal planting specs will carry on past 2018. The challenges in the study are not just hor-

ticulture challenges,” says Dr. McGrath.

There is work to do with changing how governments deal with soil and planting requirements.

This research project is part of Vineland’s Greening the Canadian Landscape. The program has expanded across Canada, and includes a number of partners. Several large Canadian cities are part of that partnership, along with a number of provincial governments.

This project was funded in part

through Growing Forward 2 (GF2), a federal-provincial-territorial initiative. The Agricultural Adaptation Council assists in the delivery of GF2 in Ontario.

Dr. McGrath says municipalities interested in the project may contact her at 905-562-0320, ext. 766, or darby.mcgrath@ vinelandresearch.com.

GIANT PUMPKIN PROMOTES COMPOST USE

A giant pumpkin weighing 1,078 lbs. is the winning entry in this year’s Annual Pumpkin Growing Contest organized by The Compost Council of Canada.

Gerry Cavanaugh of Ennismore grew his golden beauty, having prepared his soil with compost and with the hope of

Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto celebrated National Tree Day by planting trees throughout the property.

Ontario celebrates National Tree Day After five years, Canada’s National Tree Day continues to serve as an opportunity to appreciate the great benefits that trees provide.

Every year the celebration takes place on Sept. 23.

“Growing in size every year, National Tree Day helps remind Canadians of the importance of trees,” said Michael Rosen, President of Tree Canada, which coordinates the

24 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2015

program. “They beautify our communities, naturally cool our cities in the summer, and combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide emissions and producing oxygen, as well as help to improve human health.”

Many schools, municipalities, institutions and corporations marked this year’s event. For more information, go to nationaltreeday.ca.

Join us at the 2016

Ceremony and President’s Reception TUESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2016 Plaza Ballroom, International Plaza Hotel 655 Dixon Road, Toronto

5:00 p.m. PRESIDENT’S RECEPTION and AWARDS CEREMONY following; wine and hors d’oeuvres will be served.

Business attire is suggested.

All Treat Farms grew a giant pumpkin that weighed 921 lbs.

supporting the efforts of the Ennismore and District Horticultural Society in the building of a community memorial garden. The grand prize of $500 will be presented to the Society by Cavanaugh and The Compost Council of Canada at a special event celebrating International Compost Awareness Week during the first week of May 2016.

All Treat Farms’ entry weighed in at 921 lbs., a record weight for Council members since the start of the contest in 2002.

Affectionately called ‘Peanut’ by the staff at All Treat, the Arthur, Ontario-based compost facility is also a founding supporter of this growing competition, designed to promote compost’s use to feed the soil.

Additional noteworthy contestants from Ontario included Miller Compost of Pickering, City of Barrie, County of Simcoe, Miller Compost of Clarington, Region of Peel, and City of Hamilton.

Susan Antler, executive director, The Compost Council of Canada, said, “This friendly competition helps all compost advocates win, bringing attention to the power of compost to naturally enrich the soil and get it ready for a great gardening season.”

GROWERS AND MUNICIPALITIES WORK TO IMPROVE SUPPLY AND PLANTING OF URBAN LANDSCAPE TREES

A workshop on Oct. 22 in Milton brought members of the growers sector and municipal green space managers together to create a strategy on the supply and planting of trees in the urban landscape.

The select group of nursery growers and municipal green space managers arrived at shared objectives to improve to specification of and processes of purchasing trees and shrubs for planting in the urban environment.

Data from the workshop is presently being reviewed and analyzed. It is expected this will result in a strategy document that will outline key platforms to achieve improved success with urban tree and shrub plantings.

Funding assistance for the process was obtained from the province’s Growing Forward 2 program.

Held across the street from our Congress Trade Show and Conference.

$65 per person until December 18, 2015, then goes up to $75.

PRESENTING SPONSOR:

One complimentary admission per awards entry received.

SUPPORTING SPONSOR:

Purchase tickets at:

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EXECUTIVE DESK Baseball and landscaping

idea. Phil Dickie from Fast Forest donated the tree-spade plantings.

Bill Putzer from Putzer Nurseries donated the trees. The “contribution” ethic continues.

Tony DiGiovanni may be reached at tony@landscapeontario.com.

Tony DiGiovanni CHT LO executive director

M

y wife is the avid baseball fan in our household. As a faithful husband, I dutifully attend four or five games a year at the Rogers Centre. She watches and cheers. I go for long walks in the stadium.

Recently I got caught up in the energy and excitement of the Blue Jays post-season achievements. Surprisingly, I have become a reluctant fan (at least temporarily).

I am starting to recognize players and teams. The ebb and flow of emotions overcome my normally calm demeanor as hitters hit and pitchers pitch — as games are won and lost with the last batter in the final inning.

Although the Kansas City Royals silenced the cheers of a nation, one positive and touching image from the end of the season drive remained with me. In the season-end series between the Blue Jays and the Tampa Bay Rays, pitcher Chris Archer faced his former mentor and teammate David Price. Just before the game started, the camera panned to the image of Price and Archer giving each other a hug and wishing each other well.

The image communicated volumes about integrity, contribution, mentorship, purpose, collaboration and positive competition.

I have seen the same values reflected in hundreds of Landscape Ontario meetings.

Competition does not have to be war. It is possible to mentor your competitors. Positive competition makes everyone better because it forces us to grow.

I have often told the story of an early sector group meeting where I witnessed one the members freely share ideas and concepts that gave him a competitive edge. I was puzzled at his openness in a room full of competitors. After the meeting, I asked him why he had been so open. He told me that the math was in his favour. If ten people in a room each contribute one idea, each person would go home with nine ideas.

This is the essence of our association. We are competitors and collaborators at the same time. We exist to make each other and the industry better. We are a club for mutual improvement and benefit. We are an extended family with shared values that care about each other, the industry and the community.

Landscape and memory

Another example of these values was echoed at the last provincial board meeting. Just before the meeting, trees were dedicated to the memory of three industry leaders who inspired hundreds with their strong commitment to Landscape Ontario and the profession.

In many ways these leaders (with hundreds of others) set the “contribution” tone of our organization. It was a touching and fitting dedication ceremony honouring and celebrating the memory of past president and life member Casey van Maris, life member John Wright and past president Peter Olsen.

Their influence and values have benefited thousands. It should also be noted that the Waterloo Chapter board came up with the

26 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2015

Three families present for the dedication services are from top, the van Maris family, the Olsen family and the Wright family.

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Toronto Chapter’s James Robinson Public School, Markham

This integrated project was the result of a school-driven dedicated staff and parent committee that spent many months fundraising, applying for grants and working in conjunction with the school board to design York Region’s first fully-integrated accessible playground/learning centre.

Our Toronto Chapter became involved in the project about a year ago, by helping to consult and reaching out to suppliers for donations. The on-site work was completed over several days during September, with Ryan Heath CLP and Richard Hawkins acting as project coordinators.

The opening ceremony was held on Sept. 30. Markham mayor Frank Scarpitti, along with several councillors and York Regional School Board officials attended the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Definitely the highlight of the day was the parade of children in wheelchairs through the playground, along with their teachers and parents giving thanks, smiles and high-fives to the volunteers.

Waterloo Chapter’s Sir Isaac Brock Public School project Students release a butterfly at Waterloo Chapter’s Greening Schoolyard project.

Just like butterflies

By Denis Flanagan CLD Director of Public Relations and Membership Services

O

nce again I was amazed at two projects that our chapters completed last month. Both were school greening of outdoor classrooms, which fits perfectly with our association’s goal of encouraging children to become more interactive with nature.

Speaking of nature, the wonderful LO volunteers, who make these projects a success, remind me of butterflies. They seem to appear like magic, work silently and diligently at their tasks in the garden, while spectators look on in awe. When the work is done, the humble heroes fade into the green background.

These tireless and unselfish efforts have inspired me to set three specific Chapter

goals for your team in Milton for 2016.

1. Like some species of butterflies, there is a danger that some volunteers will become extinct (through volunteer burnout). We need to get more members involved with these projects, and to increase promotion of the projects on behalf of the chapters, and then follow up as needed.

2. Administration work can bog any project down. Your valuable time should be spent doing what you do best: creating beautiful spaces.

3. These fantastic community projects still need to get more recognition in the local media; we will assign more staff time and resources to get the recognition that you definitely deserve.

The following is a brief overview of the two projects I mentioned. A complete account and recognition of volunteers and suppliers appears elsewhere in this issue, and will be covered on our website.

This was the 13th outdoor classroom that the Waterloo Chapter has completed in that region. What an amazing feat.

Each project has showcased the high quality of work by our members, and this one followed suit. The dedication of volunteers was again outstanding.

The Sir Isaac Brock Public School project in Guelph consisted of a crushed limestone pathway leading to a circle of armour stones that formed an outdoor classroom.

In the middle of the classroom was a large engraved LO Green for Life rock. The area was completed with sodded berms and several mature trees to provide the area with shade.

The opening ceremony was timed to coincide with National Tree Planting Day on Sept. 23. Local school board officials and staff gave thanks to the LO volunteers.

Again, the delighted look on the faces of 400 children, as they sat in their new garden, seemed to be the best reward for the Chapter’s hard work.

An added bonus came from the school’s science lab, when a chrysalis that morning decided to transform into a monarch butterfly that was released into the garden during the ceremony. It’s a great inspiration for the future and an article.

Contact Denis Flanagan at dflanagan@landscapeontario.com.

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 27

UNDERGROUND WORLD Contractor receives bill for $11,000

By Terry Murphy CLM

W

e have written before about utility repairs following an underground accident. Examples such as these provide you with some actual experiences from Landscape Ontario excavating landscape contractors.

This article will give you some details of a recent situation of a contractor working in a tolerance zone where the soil is hard clay. The same situation could apply where water-soaked soil has frozen solid.

Normally for a one-inch gas line running into a residential house, the average utility repair cost for a strike is about $1,500. The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) will charge you another $750 administration fee and jobsite visit, along with another $750 fine if you do not have locates. Therefore, you can generally expect a total repair cost of approximately $3,000 for this problem.

Last month one of our Toronto contractors hit a two-inch residential gas line. His repair invoice was $11,000.

This is a good opportunity to learn from his misfortune.

On this particular job, the contractor had called for locates from Ontario One Call. He was working inside the onemetre tolerance zone limit. The gas line was in hard clay and the contractor’s crew was working late with a hand tool that had a sharp point in order to loosen the hard compacted clay. Being hard clay, any type of hand tool was not providing much soil breakup.

The contractor’s crew proceeded to use a sharp pointed tool and a gas line was struck. The time was afterhours.

Almost immediately, three utility repair trucks arrived. Naturally there were overtime charges for the repair, because it was after 5 p.m. The total repair charge was $11,000. The contractor is still waiting for the ‘lost gas’ charge from the utility. As of this writing he has not received any invoices from TSSA. The final cost

could exceed $13,000.

Working in hard clay or frozen soil requires special considerations. Probably, the best suggestion is not to use any hand tools at all, but consider alternative methods for loosening the soil.

The Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance (ORCGA) Best Practice Manual indicates that anyone working within the tolerance zone must not use any machinery, only hand tools.

What is the definition of a hand tool and what are examples of what should be used? If you look in the ORCGA Best Practice Manual you will not find any definition or examples for a hand tool. A request will now be made to the Canadian Common Ground Alliance Best Practice Committee to include a definition for hand tool in the Glossary of Terms and to provide examples. This will hopefully be included in the next printing of the Manual.

Generally, a hand tool for work in a tolerance zone must be a blunt instrument with no sharp edges, or points that could cut a plastic pipe or puncture a metal line, etc.

The key is to make sure that you cannot cut, rupture, puncture or damage a utility service when using a hand tool.

When you think about it, removing block of ice or hard clay surrounding a pipe or wire is almost impossible without damaging the utility service. The more one thinks about it, the more difficult it appears.

The Toronto contractor advised me that his company will not use hand tools any more when working inside the tolerance zone. He will now turn to the hydrovac process to loosen the hard soil within the tolerance zone. He has used hydrovac services on his last three jobs, and says it is very efficient, safe, time effective, but very expensive.

It costs about $1,400 for a couple of hours work. For this contractor, he says that it is worth the expense, because he cannot afford the potential cost and lost time for any more tolerance zone problems. Remember that it is not only the invoice amount from the utility that is a cost, but it is the time that it takes for the contractor to resolve the problem and the opportunity loss when you could be doing

28 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2015

more profitable things. It is always the aggravation that goes with the problem.

Hydro-vac excavating has been around for more than three decades, but is not used much by the landscape community. It is a method of injecting pressurized water into the soil to break up the material surrounding the utility. This is a very safe way to work in the tolerance zone and is virtually free from any possible damages. This contractor highly recommends the hydro-vac process. Hot water can also be used where required.

I have mentioned before that each Landscape Ontario Chapter is missing the boat by not having an LO representative participating in local ORCGA Council meetings. These councils exist in many of the same cities as the LO Chapters. Meetings are short and the networking is invaluable.

Excavating contractors, road builders, municipalities and utilities are represented at these ORCGA Council meetings. There are always guest speakers who present views on various topics and the hydro-vac people are always present for discussions. These excavators are full of information on effective excavation techniques within the tolerance zone. Contact Jennifer Parent, of the ORCGA, for details at 905-328-7063.

At Congress 2016, we are planning an ORCGA Speakers Education Corner.

This will include three speakers per day, Jan. 12-14, for a total of nine subjects.

Each subject will be on damage prevention. Each session will be 15 – 20 minutes and then questions and answers.

The event will take place on the trade show floor with seating for 30 participants. After each 20 minute talk, we will collect business cards and draw for a $50 door prize. Talks each day will run from 10 a.m. until 11:30. Also, Jan 13, is Dig Safe Day at Congress.

At the Canada Blooms Show in 2016, ORCGA will have a small display in the contractors’ exhibit area. This display will highlight for the public the dangers of digging on their property and the importance anyone who digs, to get locates.”

In addition, Ontario One Call and the ORCGA will have a combined booth in the National Home Show area to distribute Dig Safe literature and to discuss the importance of locates.

Please contact me with suggestions or comments on this article or any other damage prevention issue. You can contact me at tvmurphy@ca.inter.net, or call me at 905-279-5147.

MEMBERSHIP Membership numbers: Where you all sit

Active Interim Associate Chapter Membership totals Associate as of Oct. 16 Durham Georgian Lakelands Golden Horseshoe London Ottawa

Toronto

Upper Canada Waterloo Windsor

148 149 255 96 116 655 39 144 33

4 1 4 0 2 7 1 0 0

21 49 62 35 32 193 5 48 7

8 5 13 7 30 20 4 18 1

181 204 334 138 180 875 49 210 41

Your Goal 170 211 332 156 189 861 48 207 39

Show us your strength and we will show you the money

By Rachel Cerelli Membership and Chapter Coordinator

E

ach year our chapter boards work diligently for you by coordinating the best possible educational and networking events. Chapters also give back to the communities through both large and small projects.

Our chapters are able to pull this off by virtue of hard working volunteer boards of directors, committees, and with a little help from home office.

Again this year, home office has created a little incentive to help your chapters grow. We all are working towards maintaining a standard of professionalism and want to continue as the leader in representing, promoting and fostering a favourable climate for the advancement of the horticulture industry in Ontario.

Because we believe in you, we have created the Chapter Challenge to ensure we support YOU, our lifeline of the Association. The contest encourages each chapter to increase membership by five per cent. Each chapter that achieves that mark will be granted $500. As well, the chapter to increase and retain its membership by the highest percentage will receive an additional $500, plus the bragging rights to own Grout Gnome’s cousin for

the year. The winner will be announced at the AGM during Congress 2016.

Our membership total is the highest ever. Heartfelt congratulations to you all. Since March of this year, which is when we arrived at the starting membership totals, the majority of chapters have already surpassed the set goals.

Now we just need to ensure we maintain these numbers.

As you are all aware, membership renewals went out in August for our new fiscal year (Sept .1). Second invoices have gone out, as well as a third mailing. If you have yet to renew, I ask you, “What are you waiting for?” Both the industry as a whole and your chapter need you. Together we are strong and make a difference.

Don’t forget to check what your chapter is working on for you. Go to horttrades.com and click on chapters.

From here, click on yours. Both employers and employees are invited to participate at all events and meetings. If you have a friend who is not yet a member, bring him or her to a meeting. We encourage new faces to join, learn with us and educate us, too.

For more information on how you can get involved in your chapter, contact Rachel Cerelli at rachel@landscapeontario. com. Each spring, your board of directors holds elections at a general meeting, where you can make a difference.

Elections happen in the spring. If this interests you, contact me today.

Landscape Designer Conference 2016

MONDAY, JANUARY 11, 2016

Designing for Demographics

INTERNATIONAL PLAZA HOTEL Held in conjunction with Congress Opening keynote on

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Until Dec. 18: $135 members and $185 non-members.

After Dec. 18: $185 and $265 respectively.

Admission to Congress '16 trade show is included.

REGISTER TODAY at

LOcongress.com

JANUARY 11, 2016

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WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 29

PROSPERITY PARTNERS Professional development season is here

By Jacki Hart CLM Prosperity Partners Program Manager

T

his is the time of year when most of us in this industry breathe at least a brief sigh of relief, and start to think about winter month plans for you and your staff’s training and development.

Here are some things to consider — in keeping with the Prosperity Partners philosophy. If you’re aiming at nothing, you’ll hit it with HUGE accuracy.

So, what are your goals this winter for professional development? To help you map out a plan, here are some helpful tips: A great place to start is with a budget. What is the dollar amount you’re allotting to your own winter seminar, workshop, certification or training investment? What about for your key staff, or diamonds in the rough, who you believe show great potential?

Next, decide on priorities, such as training your key staff, and those in whom you see potential. One of the best ways to help determine priorities is to look at the gaps that exist. Keep in mind that we always gravitate to what we enjoy. Place emphasis for training this winter on the roles and responsibilities which most challenge each individual on your team.

In other words, stop going to seminars on plants, if you’re a talented horticulturist. While it’s good to keep up with trends and new products, you don’t have to pay money to discover that information.

Avoid signing up for seminars which cover specific skills (including managing various aspects of your business like HR, overhead recovery and social media) if you know for certain that you’re never going to buckle down and perform those technical tasks in your business. Send the key person on your team performing those tasks to work on improving in these

areas. In some cases, know when you should outsource an expert.

Do a Preference Gap Analysis, which we teach as a business management tool in the Build Your Prosperity workshop. It is a great way to discover what you will most likely need to permanently delegate in your business, and what your business will benefit from by you honing in on improving and doing yourself. The purpose of the Gap Analysis is to guide your own career plan, your recruiting plan, team complement and business focus. While every business owner and manager doesn’t need to excel in every aspect of business, they should have team members, who together, bring to the table what’s needed on the whole. The owner should only need to know what everything looks like when it’s being done right, or trust someone who does. Everyone on your team should have different and complementary strengths. Your training plan should support and delegate training resources accordingly in a structured, deliberate way.

Let me give an example. When I was in about year four of running my business, I hired a part-time office person to push paper, write out cheques, sort the mail, process the work log sheets and answer the phone, and poke around in various parts of QuickBooks. It was like the blind leading the blind. I had to pay my accountant every year to fix countless entry errors.

The adjusting journal entries listing were the size of a small magazine every year. By year six or seven, I hired a full-time office assistant, who was selfprofessed great bookkeeper who ‘knew QuickBooks inside and out.’

Fast forward to year ten. My accountant, who for three years implored me to hire someone else to do the books, ended up creating an interview test for me to give each interviewee in a dummy company in QuickBooks. I hired another dud. My accountant ended up doing the interviewing and selecting the candi-

30 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2015

date next time around. Why? Because I had no idea how my books should look like, nor did I know how to make the proper entries or create sensible charts of accounts, etc., myself.

To this day (after 25 years), I have still never reconciled the bank account or petty cash. Could I? Probably. Would I? Never. Why? Because it simply doesn’t interest me, and I am of way more value to the company doing something else — hands on — and NOT at a desk. Sound familiar? I learned where I could contribute the most to my business, and where I needed trustworthy expertise from someone else. Know where you and your company gaps are, and be realistic about how or whom should fill them.

Link Professional Development Goals to your key employee annual reviews. Add a section to your annual job performance review form to include what the employee wants to achieve, and what you identify as next steps to continue adding value to their contribution on your team. Discuss this in a performance review meeting, and agree on an action plan for professional development in the coming year. This creates some accountability. It also helps to avoid spending your money on employee training that doesn’t translate into improved performance. Consider requiring a report with action items and improvement commitment by an employee each time they attend a training session of any sort at your expense. This includes training on software programs or server platforms.

This creates accountability of performance expectations post training.

Watch for the exciting line-up of events and opportunities at Congress 2016, which is less than two months away, and for the Winter Workshop Professional Development series coming this winter. Both are great opportunities to improve the skill set of your whole team, and to rub elbows with your peers.

If you’re looking for a roadmap for prioritizing your focus and direction, email our team at prosperity@landscapeontario.com.

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All classified ads must be pre-paid by credit card. Rates: $50.85 (HST included) per column inch Min. order $50.85. 15% discount on ads run for entire calendar year. Box Numbers: Additional $10.

Confidentiality ensured. Deadlines: 20th day of the month prior to issue date. (eg: June issue deadline is May 20th). January deadline is Dec. 10. Space is limited to a first come, first served basis.

To advertise: E-mail your name, phone number and ad to Robert at classifieds@landscapeontario. com or fax to (905) 875-0183. Online advertising: Website only ads are available for $67.80 (HST included) for Associaton members and $90.40 HST included for non-members. Website ads are posted for 31 days. View ads online at www.horttrades.com/classifieds

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

GENERAL FARM LABOURER Field labour in the nursery, minimum wage.

Duties: Weeding, hoeing, planting, digging, watering and pruning of trees and shrubs in fields and yard.

Seasonal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; April to November Skills Required: Grade 12 diploma, work experience an asset.

UXBRIDGE NURSERIES LIMITED 8080 Baldwin St., Brooklin, ON, L1M 1Y6 Contact: Wilma Muhic wilma@uxbridgenurseries.com

2 GUELPH AREA BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES TURN-KEY GARDEN CENTRE FOR SALE: on 9 acres of owned land, with on-site luxury home for owner/manager. Established in 1988; market leader in the Guelph area; profitable with potential to become much more so in the years ahead. A true once in a lifetime opportunity for the right buyer!

LOST HORIZONS PERENNIALS NURSERY: Renowned throughout Southern Ontario and beyond as THE go-to source for rare perennials - over 3,000 varieties in-stock.

5.53 acres including 2.5 acre public display gardens and upgraded heritage residence.

Original owner will assist in the transition.

For details on either of these great business opportunities, go to prosper.ca or phone Steve Dawkins, Sales Representative with REMAX Real Estate Centre Inc, Brokerage Toll Free: 1-855-95-REMAX

View these ads and many more online at

www.horttrades.com/ classifieds

ADVERTISERS Angus Inground Sprinkler Co.

www.angusirrigation.org

905-544-3631

Page 20

www.canadale.com

519-631-1008

Page 17

www.colvoy.ca

855-449-5858

Page 15

www.expresswaytrucks.com

800-558-7364

Page 20

www.draglamsalt.com

888-907-7258

Page 19

www.gro-bark.com

888-476-2275

Page 18

www.landscapestore.ca

905-336-3369

Page 17

www.metalpless.com

866-362-1688

Page 14

www.newroadsleasing.com

416-587-1021

Page 19

www.niscocanada.com

888-634-9559

Page 16

www.pottersroadnursery.com

519-688-0437

Page 15

www.sipkensnurseries.com

866-843-0438

Page 21

www.southoakvillechrysler.com

905-845-6653

Page 15

Stam Nurseries

www.stamnurseries.com

519-424-3350

Page 22

V. Kraus Nurseries Ltd.

www.krausnurseries.com

905-689-4022

Page 18

Canadale Nurseries Colvoy Equipment Expressway Hino Waterloo G & L Group (Draglam Salt) Gro-Bark (Ontario) Ltd. Legends Landscape Supply Inc. Metal Pless Inc. Newroads National Leasing Nisco National Leasing Potters Road Nursery Inc. Sipkens Nurseries Ltd. South Oakville Chrysler Fiat

WORKING LANDSCAPE SUPERVISOR Husky Landscaping Services currently has an exciting opportunity for an experienced landscape professional. You will work in the Markham and North York area and be responsible for Overseeing, training and working alongside 3 landscaping crews, client consultations, landscape design and installation, estimating, budgeting, scheduling and reporting.

The position requires snow plowing and salting over the winter season. Applicants must have a minimum of 2-3 years experience, possess a Horticulturist Trade Certificate, have some College and or vocational or technical training, a strong knowledge of computer hardware and software, a valid G license, demonstrate strong communication skills and an ability to prioritize, and want to make a valuable contribution to a well respected company.

Permanent full time, $40,000-$50,000/year.

Send resume to huskylandscping@yahoo.com or call 416-494-8439

Get INSPIRED Get CONNECTED

SA VE TH ED AT E

February 8, 2016 TEATRO

Conference and Event Centre 121 Chishom Drive, Milton, ON

LIGHTINGCONFERENCE.CA

WWW.HORTTRADES.COMâ&#x20AC;&#x192; 31

Canada’s Premier Green Industry Trade Show and Conference JANUARY 12-14, 2016 Featuring Fencecraft

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IPM Symposium n Landscape Designer Conference n NEW! Hardscape LIVE! n Peers Helping Peers Workshop n Tailgate Party n Irrigation Conference n Daily Keynotes n Owners-Only Workshops n Life Lessons at Lunch n New Products Showcase n 600+ exhibitors n Legacy Room n Landscape Ontario AGM n Awards of Excellence Ceremony n Strengthening Women in Horticulture n New! Speakers Corner n

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32 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO NOVEMBER 2015

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