Issuu

Growing Concern

The

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

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The Growing Concern | October 2026 | 1 November 19, 2026 | Woodside Event Center

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PR ES I DEN T’S COLUM N

A SEASON WORTH CELEBRATING

BRANDON BARKER

J. Barker Landscaping Company

October is a special time of year in the landscape industry. The leaves are changing, temperatures are cooling and another busy season is gradually coming to a close. While there is still plenty of work to be done before winter arrives, this time of year offers a good opportunity to reflect on what our industry has accomplished. For many of us, the past several months have been a blur. Between spring cleanups, landscape installations, maintenance schedules and the countless unexpected challenges that arise throughout the season, it’s sometimes difficult to appreciate just how much work our teams have completed. We tend to finish one project and immediately turn our attention to the next. That’s simply the nature of our business. However, I think it’s important that we occasionally take a moment to recognize the quality of work being performed throughout our industry. That is exactly what we had the opportunity to do at the Landscape Ohio Awards Program, held on Thursday, October 8, at Tenk West Bank. The Awards Program is one of my favorite opportunities to celebrate the creativity, craftsmanship and dedication of landscape professionals from across Ohio. It showcases exceptional projects completed by our members and recognizes the companies and individuals responsible for bringing those projects to life. What makes this event particularly meaningful

is that the people gathered together understand what goes into producing outstanding landscape work. A beautiful, finished landscape may appear effortless to someone passing by, but those of us in the industry know otherwise. Behind every successful project are hours of planning, careful plant selection, site preparation, skilled installation and attention to detail. There are challenges along the way, adjustments that need to be made and plenty of hard work that never appears in the finished photographs. The same can be said for landscape maintenance. Keeping a property looking exceptional throughout an entire growing season requires consistency, knowledge and a great deal of effort from the crews responsible for its care. These are accomplishments worth celebrating. I want to congratulate all of this year’s award recipients and thank everyone who participated in the program. I also appreciate those who joined us for the evening, along with the sponsors, volunteers, the Awards Committee and OLA continued on page 6 The Growing Concern | October 2026 | 3

TAB LE OF CON TEN TS O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6 WWW. OH I OLA N D SCA P E R S. OR G OH I O’ S P R OF E SSI ON A L G REEN I N D U ST R Y A SSOCI AT I O N OHIO LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION 9240 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, Ohio 44147 Phone: 440-717-0002 Toll Free: 1-800-335-6521 Web: www.ohiolandscapers.org REGULAR WRITERS Michael J. Donnellan, M3 Wealth Management Jim Funai, PhD, Cuyahoga Community College Shelley Funai, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Brandon Barker, J. Barker Landscaping Company Patty Lampert, Ohio Landscape Association Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, Bobbie’s Green Thumb

COVER: Residential Landscape Installation Over $125,000, Judge’s Choice & Honor Award, Ground Works Land Design, Siegel Residence Project

FEATURES COLUMN 3 APRESIDENT’S Season Worth Celebrating PERENNIAL FOCUS 8 Thugs in the Garden – Beware! FISCAL FITNESS 12 The Year-End Review FOR SAFETY SAKE 16 Listen Up! It’s National Protect Your Hearing Month PLANT OF THE MONTH 18 Corylopsis spicata, Spike Winterhazel FEATURE ARTICLE 22 Building Your Team AWARD FOR LIFETIME CONTRIBUTIONS 26 Dr. Jim Funai

28 LANDSCAPE OHIO! AWARDS 34 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S COLUMN 35 INDEX 4 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

ADVERTISING INFORMATION Submission deadline: 10th of the month, prior to the month of magazine publication. For advertising and ad specs, please call 440-717-0002, and ask for Patty Lampert. DISCLAIMER The Ohio Landscape Association, its board of directors, staff and the editor of The Growing Concern neither endorse any product(s) or attests to the validity of any statements made about products mentioned in this, past or subsequent issues of this publication. Similarly, the opinions expressed in The Growing Concern are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Ohio Landscape Association.

OFFICERS President Brandon Barker

OLA STAFF Executive Director Patty Lampert

President – Elect Matt Malone

Administrative Assistant Monica Occhetti

Treasurer Tom Rieder, LIC Immediate Past President Ryan Drake DIRECTORS Jeffrey Ardo Jason Deuble, LIC, OCNT Amy Gatoo Gil Kupetz Jess Kronenberger Garrett McNeill

C AL ENDAR OF EVEN TS U P C O M I N G O L A M E E T I N G S , E D U C AT I O N S E M I N A R S & E V E N T S

NOVEMBER 2026

WELCOME NEW MEMBER

NOVEMBER 4 SANDLER SALES TRAINING

The OLA is delighted to welcome the following new member to the association:

at Sandler Training Center This clinic is designed for landscape professionals. Learn how to navigate the modern buying process by understanding the dynamics between buyers and sellers, recognizing common communication traps, and creating more productive customer conversations. Registration open until November 3

REGULAR MEMBER

NOVEMBER 19 ANNUAL MEETING: DE-CODING THE H2-B VISA at Woodside Event Center Join us for an evening to network with OLA Members, meet the Board of Directors, participate in the annual meeting, and to hear from Nataly Mualem discuss successful strategies for the H-2B program. Registration open until November 3 Sponsor the Event

DECEMBER 2026 DECEMBER 4 DORMANT PRUNING at Secrest Arboretum

SCAN THE QR CODE TO SEE A FULL LIST OF EVENTS AND REGISTRATION.

Catholic Cemeteries Association 10,000 Miles Ave. Cleeland, OH 44105 216-883-5393 Justin Torer

Membership Renewals Are

Now Open! Thank you for your support to our association! To renew, please click the link below to review and pay your invoice with a credit card or by sending in a check. MEMBER PORTAL In your member portal, can click “View” next to any invoice to download a printable view of the invoice. You can check the “Select Item to Pay” checkbox to enter your credit card information and submit payment online. Payment can also be made via check. If you have any questions, please reach out to Patty via email at Patty@OhioLandscapers.org. We can also help you renew via phone, by calling the Ohio Landscape Association at 440-717-0002. Thank You so much!

The Growing Concern | October 2026 | 5

PR ES IDEN T’S COLUM N continued from page 3

staff who helped make the event possible. Opportunities to gather for dinner, reconnect with colleagues and celebrate one another’s accomplishments are an important part of what makes our Association valuable. I especially appreciate the opportunity to recognize the employees who contribute to these accomplishments. While an award may be presented to a company, the finished product is almost always the result of a team effort. Designers, project managers, foremen, installers and maintenance crews all play important roles in delivering the results our clients expect. As business owners and managers, we should never underestimate what recognition can mean to those employees. Taking the time to acknowledge their contributions helps reinforce the pride they have in their work and the companies they represent. Beyond the Awards Program, October also marks an important transition for many of our businesses. Some members are completing fall projects, preparing properties for

winter season and beginning to evaluate their plans for 2027. Others are preparing for the snow and ice management season, which brings an entirely different set of responsibilities and challenges. Regardless of the services your company provides, this transition is a reminder of how diverse and demanding our industry can be. Few businesses experience the same seasonal changes that we do, and adapting to those changes requires a tremendous amount of commitment from everyone involved. As we move toward the end of 2026, I hope each of you finds some satisfaction in what your company and employees have accomplished this year. Not every project goes exactly as planned and every season presents its share of difficulties. But there is something rewarding about looking back and seeing the tangible results of months of hard work. Congratulations again to all of this year’s Landscape Ohio Awards recipients. Thank you for continuing to demonstrate the professionalism, creativity and dedication that make our industry something to be proud of.

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6 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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The Growing Concern | October 2026 | 7

PEREN N I AL FOCUS

BOBBIE SCHWARTZ, FAPLD Bobbie’s Green Thumb

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THUGS IN THE GARDEN – BEWARE! There is a fine line between spreading, aggressive, and thuggish behavior in the garden. Most gardeners have spaces that could and should be filled with groundcover but the question is how fast and how far? For instance, I wanted a perennial with yellow foliage and purple flowers for a sunny spot and was going to fill this space with Nepeta ‘Chartreuse on the Loose’. Then, fortunately, when I attended PPA this summer, I mentioned that to my friend who manages the Better Homes and Gardens test garden in Des Moines. Her quick response was, “Don’t use that unless you want it to seed everywhere!” Guess what? I opted for Sedum ‘Angelina’ instead. If it spreads more than you want, it is easy to pull.

My small front entry bed is shaded in the morning and sunny in the afternoon and I wanted to add a late bloomer so in 2002, I planted one Aster (Symphyotrichum) macrophylla ‘Albus’ (Bigleaf Aster). Before I knew it, this rhizomatous aster was taking over, so I had to pull it. Unfortunately, it is still sending out some shoots. The leaves are quite large, but the white flowers are not impressive. However, in a site that is spacious and has no competition, it would probably be quite useful.

continued on page 10

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The Growing Concern | October 2026 | 9

PEREN N I AL FOCUS continued from page 8

Another aster is also a thug, but prettier than Amacrophylla. This one is Aster (Symphyotrichum) ericoides ‘Snow Flurry’ (Heath Aster). While Aster macrophylla is tall (3-4’), this aster is short, only 4-6” and much more floriferous. It would make an excellent late-blooming groundcover for a very large space. Campanula punctata (Spotted Bellflower) can be somewhat thuggish and has several lovely cultivars. ‘Elizabeth’ has drooping, rose-pink bell-like flowers most of the summer while ‘Purple Sensation’ and ‘Sarastro’ have purple bells. In my sunny garden, ‘Elizabeth’ fights it out with Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens. In my dry shade bed, both the purple cultivars have survived quite well, but the dryness has kept them in bounds. I love the seedheads of Chasmanthium latifolium (Northern Sea Oats), but as I’ve gotten older, I tire of pulling its seedlings. I have tried to prevent the seeding by cutting off the seedheads in the fall instead of waiting until spring, but I still have to dig seedlings.

While Hibiscus syriacus ‘Purple Pillar’ is not a perennial, you should be aware that it was touted as sterile when it was first promoted. I was delighted to learn about this cultivar of Rose of Sharon because I have found it to be quite the problematic shrub with its ferocious seeding tendencies. I had a narrow space for which ‘Purple Pillar’ was a great solution. To my dismay, it has been a disaster! I have finally had it dug out but I know that I will be pulling seedlings for years to come. There’s no question that gardeners and landscape designers need rhizomatous and seeding plants but we also need to know which ones can become thugs. Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, owner of Bobbie’s Green Thumb in Shaker Hts., Ohio, is a landscape designer, consultant, freelance writer, and lecturer whose specialties are perennial gardens and four season landscapes. In addition to being an Ohio Landscape Association (OLA) member, she is an active member of the Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association (ONLA) and Perennial Plant Association (PPA). Bobbie is a Past President of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD).

Top Left: Aster macrophylla ‘Albus’ (prairienursery.com). Top Center: Aster ericoides ‘Snow Flurry’ (northcreeknursery.com). Top Right: Backlit Chasmanthium in Toledo Botanical Garden in August. Bottom Left: Campanula punctata ‘Elizabeth’ with Lupinus perennis seedlings in my sunny garden in late June. Bottom Center: Campanula ‘Purple Sensation’, Amsonia ‘Halfway to Arkansas’ in early June in morning sun/afternoon part shade bed. Bottom Right: Campanula ‘Sarastro’ leaning toward the sun in shady bed in late June.

10 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

The TheGrowing GrowingConcern Concern| October | March 2026 | 11

F ISCAL FI TN ESS

MICHAEL J. DONNELLAN M3 Wealth Management

THE YEAR-END REVIEW:

C l o s i n g O u t You r B u s in es s and H o useho ld Bo o ks

As the last mowers get winterized and snow contracts kick in, most landscape owners finally get a chance to catch their breath. Before the holidays take over, set aside a few hours for a year-end review — one for the business and one for your household. In an industry where the two are so often tangled together, looking at both side by side is where the real value lies. WHY DECEMBER MATTERS By now you know almost everything about your year: revenue, margins, which crews and services made money and which didn’t. More importantly, decisions made before December 31 can still change your tax bill. After that date, most of your options disappear and you’re simply reporting history to your accountant.

THE BUSINESS SIDE Know your real numbers. Close your books through November and estimate December. Compare revenue and gross margin by service line — maintenance, installs, hardscape, snow. Many owners discover their busiest division isn’t their most profitable one.

Meet with your CPA now, not in March. Ask about timing. Should you prepay certain expenses, or buy that truck or skid steer this year? Current law allows full bonus depreciation and an expanded Section 179 deduction, which can make equipment purchases attractive. But only buy what you’d buy anyway. Spending a dollar to save thirty cents in taxes is not a strategy. Check owner pay and estimates. If you operate as an S-Corp, confirm your salary is reasonable and payroll is current. Make sure your estimated tax payments are on track to avoid penalties. Use the business to fund retirement. A SEP-IRA, SIMPLE IRA or Solo 401(k) can shelter a meaningful amount of continued on page 14

12 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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continued from page 12

income — the 2026 employee deferral limit for a 401(k) is $24,500, before catch-up contributions. Some plans can be funded after year end; others must be established before December 31. Ask now.

your will and powers of attorney are current. Then ask the harder question: if something happened to you tomorrow, who runs or sells the business? If you have partners, a funded buy-sell agreement answers that.

Build a winter cash plan. Map out January through March: payroll, equipment loans, insurance renewals, your line of credit. The goal is to enter spring with a cushion, not a maxed-out credit line.

Look at your investments. Year end is the time to rebalance, harvest losses where they make sense and make sure your portfolio still fits your goals.

THE HOUSEHOLD SIDE

PUT IT ON THE CALENDAR

Owners who pour everything into the business often neglect their own balance sheet. Your household deserves the same attention.

None of this takes long. Schedule a business review with your bookkeeper in early December, a meeting with your CPA by mid-December, and a household review with your spouse and advisor before the holidays. A couple of hours each will do.

Separate the money. Pay yourself on a schedule rather than pulling from the business account as needed. It makes budgeting — and your bookkeeper’s life — far easier. Size your emergency fund for a seasonal income. A salaried employee might get by with three months of expenses. You should plan to cover the slow months, plus a margin for a bad spring. Fund your own retirement accounts. IRA contributions for 2026 are up to $7,500, or $8,600 if you’re 50 or older, and you have until April 15 to make them. Review beneficiaries and estate documents. Confirm beneficiaries on retirement accounts and life insurance, and consider transfer-on-death designations on your home and vehicles and payable-on-death on bank accounts. Make sure

14 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

You spend all season taking care of other people’s properties. Take one afternoon this winter to take care of your own.

This article is for educational purposes only and is not personalized financial advice. Consider consulting a licensed financial professional before making investment decisions. Scenarios illustrated are hypothetical in nature, results may vary. Investing is subject to risk which may involve loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. The M3 Wealth Management Office does not provide legal or tax advice. Consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific situation. The information herein is general and educational in nature and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Michael J. Donnellan specializes in stock selection and retirement planning. Feel free to contact him with any questions or comments at the M3 Wealth Management Office at 17601 W. 130th Street – Suite 1 in North Royalton, Ohio. (440) 652-6370 | donnellan@m3wealthmanagement.com

EVENT INFORMATION NOVEMBER 4, 2026 SANDLER BY MP SOLUTIONS IN NORTHEAST OHIO

6060 Rockside Woods Blvd. N Suite 105 Independence, OH 44131 SCHEDULE REGISTRATION & LIGHT BREAKFAST

8:30 - 9:00 am INTERACTIVE CLINIC

9:00 - 12:00 pm COST MEMBERS: $99 NON-MEMBERS: $149

QUESTIONS Please call Patty at 440-717-0002

THE MODERN BUYER: WHY TRADITIONAL SELLING NO LONGER WORKS

In this interactive clinic designed specifically for landscape professionals, you’ll learn how to navigate the modern buying process by understanding the dynamics between buyers and sellers, recognizing common communication traps, and creating more productive customer conversations.

PARTICIPANTS WILL LEARN • • • • • • •

The Buyer/Seller Dance and why traditional sales conversations often create resistance How buyers and sellers unintentionally move each other further from a decision The role of Pendulum Theory in understanding buyer uncertainty and indecision How to avoid chasing prospects who are not ready to buy Techniques for creating more balanced, productive conversations How to reduce “quote and hope” selling and improve opportunity quality Practical communication strategies that build trust and credibility with today’s buyer

RICK McDERMOTT

Sandler by MP Solutions

Rick McDermott is the owner of Sandler by MP Solutions, a Northeast Ohio–based sales and leadership development firm that helps organizations build stronger sales teams, improve customer conversations, and create sustainable growth.

Visit the OLA Calendar on our website, OhioLandscapers.org

Rick is known for an interactive, straightforward training style that gives participants tools they can put to work immediately. His programs incorporate the Sandler Selling System, a proven methodology focused on creating better conversations, understanding how and why customers make decisions, and developing sales processes that are comfortable for both the buyer and seller.

*Cancellations made 14 days prior to the course start date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds, or credits will be issued for cancellations after October 19, no shows, or cancellations on the day of the course. If, for any reason, the course is canceled, enrollees CEU’S will be notified, and fees refunded in full. Register early as class size is limited and will sell out quickly. The Growing Concern | October 2026 | 15

F OR SAFETY SAK E

LISTEN UP!

IT’S NATIONAL PROTECT YOUR HEARING MONTH According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 22 million employees each year are exposed to workplace noise that could potentially damage their hearing. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) works to prevent work-related hearing loss through its National Protect Your Hearing Month (NPYHM) campaign. Every October, NIOSH reminds employers and workers to take proactive measures to conserve hearing health. Though some jobsites, like airport tarmacs and construction projects, increase the risk of occupational hearing loss, everyone should be aware of the potential dangers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) lists three key signs that may indicate noise is a problem at your workplace: 1. You hear ringing or humming in your ears even after you’ve left work. 2. You experience temporary hearing loss after your workday is finished. 3. You and your coworkers must shout to hear one another at arm’s length.

This NPYHM, review the OSHA standards for occupational noise exposure, and assess the controls put in place to prevent hearing loss at your own job. • Conduct regular noise monitoring. • Use personal protective equipment, such as earplugs, correctly and consistently. • Replace noisy equipment with quieter models or use sound-dampening materials. • Offer or attend training about the importance of hearing conservation programs.

The best hearing protection is prevention. Monitor noise, wear protection, and speak up about hazards. Information was provided by Sedgwick, featured in their October Employee Safety Newsletter.

16 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

OLA ANNUAL MEETING 2026

EVENT INFORMATION NOVEMBER 19, 2026 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM ST. MICHAEL’S WOODSIDE

5025 East Mill Road OH Broadview Hts., OH 44147 SCHEDULE 5:30 - 7:00 PM

Registration, Networking, Hors D’oeuvres, Cash Bar 7:00 - 7:30 PM

Annual Meeting 7:30 - 8:30 PM

Nataly Mualem

This event is free for members, non-member registration is $125. Register to attend by November 17, 2026. To register, visit the Calendar: OhioLandscapers.org. Sponsor the event: OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA ANNUAL MEETING: DE-CODING THE H2B VISA PROGRAM

Join us on November 19th to network with OLA Members, meet the Board of Directors, participate in the annual meeting, and to hear from Nataly Mualem discuss successful strategies for the H-2B program. In this session, immigration attorney Nataly Mualem will walk through how the H-2B process really works behind the scenes, including cap timing, lottery groupings, and the growing role of supplemental visas. Attendees will learn the real-world strategies successful employers use to position their cases, structure filings, and adapt when things do not go as planned. We will also cover common mistakes that lead to delays or denials, how to plan for returning workers, and how to build a workforce strategy that goes beyond a single season. This is not theory, it is what is working right now for landscaping companies navigating today’s H-2B environment. DISCUSSION TOPICS • How the the Landscape H-2B program works • Winning strategies to secure workers • How to build a long-term workforce plan

NATALY MUALEM

Founding Attorney Mualem Firm Strongsville, Ohio

ANNUAL MEETING SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES ANNUAL MEETING SPONSOR - $750

Includes a display table. (8 available)

BAR SPONSOR - $300 Includes a drink named after your company. (6 available) FOOD SPONSOR - $300 Includes your company name & logo by the food. (6 available)

Sponsor Recognition Includes: • Company logo in promotional pieces & event registration page. • Recognition on signage and digital presentation at meeting. • Company listed in social media posts. OLA Membership is needed to participate in sponsorships. Sponsorships can be made on the OLA website. Deadline is November 10.

*Cancellations made 14 days prior to the course start date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds, or credits will be issued for cancellations after November 5, no shows, or cancellations on the day of the course. If, for any reason, the course is canceled, enrollees will be CEU notified, and fees refunded in full. Register early as class size is limited and will sell out quickly. The Growing Concern | October 2026 | 17

PL ANT OF TH E M ON TH

JIM FUNAI, PhD

Cuyahoga Community College

SHELLEY FUNAI, LIC

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

CORYLOPSIS SPICATA SPIKE WINTERHAZEL Clear yellow. It is funny how the terms we use to describe plants don’t always make much sense on their own. On a recent plant ID walk with his class, Jim was chuckling thinking about the many terms that have to be explained prior to use as he describes the plant’s features and ID tips. Clear yellow. We use this term to help distinguish good yellow fall color from a more dirty, spotted, browned, ugly yellow fall color. Think about the common (European) horsechestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) there is nothing clear or clean about that yellow fall color. It’s been so badly damaged by Guignardia leaf blight by the time autumn comes that you don’t even notice the actual fall color. Clear yellow is a great way to describe the fall color of this month’s plant. A greatly underused shrub for our landscapes, Spike Winterhazel should become part of your garden repertoire. Corylopsis is a botanical tribute to the similar genus, Corylus (Hazel). Using the Latin suffix –opsis, meaning, “resembling” Corylopsis is a plant that resembles the hazels. Other members of the family may be more familiar including Witchhazel and Fothergilla.

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While this time of year winterhazels are changing from their beautiful bluish tinted green leaves to their perfectly clear yellow (blemish free) fall color, it is perhaps the early spring when the plant shines the most. In late March or more often early April, 2” long pendulous racemes decorate the bare branches with a soft, primrose yellow glow. The flowers are borne along the stems and dance in the slightest breeze for several weeks as each individual flower opens down the raceme. In contrast to the harsh, sharp yellow of forsythia, this softer yellow glows beautifully in the sunlight of early spring gardens. We have noticed that some corylopsis has a very pleasant scent to the flowers but not all. This seems to be a function of genetic variation among the species. Check with your nursery supplier, how they are propagating plants and if you should expect any reliability of scent. continued on page 20

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continued from page 18

One of the great features of this plant is the ability to take the spotlight when in bloom, and then perform a great supporting role the rest of the season. With leaves resembling the other members of the family the bluish-green foliage makes a strong backdrop to a properly planned succession of blooms and foliage. Given proper space, we find this shrub to be best left alone. No pruning needed! It will likely reach an average height of about 5 feet but be certain to leave some space to spread, as the braches will reach out up to about 10 feet (perhaps slightly more). The shrub will take some time to reach a mature size but with some patience, it will surely build a great backbone to the shrub border. Another great feature of the plant is lack of any serious pest issues. Its cousins, the witch hazels, will have issues with an aphid species that causes cone galls on the upper leaf surface. These insects need a species of birch (especially river birch) nearby to complete their life cycle and reach maximum aesthetic damage. While not life threatening to either species, it can be a bit of an eye sore. We have witnessed a few very rare cases where it seems the same aphid has done this to a corylopsis, but it only seemed to happen when a river birch is practically on top of the shrub. We say, no worries on pests for this plant. Spike winterhazels (C. spicata) are native to Japan with a number of very close species ranging from the eastern edges of the Himalayas all the way across most of Asia to Japan. C. spicata is one found typically in well drained soils (but plenty of available moisture) among rock outcroppings and receiving nearly full sun. It seems, however, that in cultivation you would be better off giving the plants protection from late afternoon

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sun and harsh northern winter winds. Perhaps the most ideal location would be under a tall canopy of trees to provide some protection from the hottest and driest parts of the day. Flower production seems to be a function of sun exposure, but it is worth sacrificing a few flowers for the benefit of not killing the plant in drought. While there are some cultivars in existence, we have not had much luck sourcing them from the nursery trade. Perhaps due to the lack of popularity of the plant, which we aim to remedy with this introduction. ‘Ogon’ or ‘Golden Spring’ is a cultivar with bright yellow leaves for the begining of the season, slowly fading to green as the heat kicks in mid summer. ‘Spring Purple’ is a cultivar we have not had the pleasure of seeing in person, but is reported to start the season with a deep purple foliage. Next time you are thinking about how to add some early spring interest to your garden and find yourself tired of plain old forsythia, perhaps this plant is for you. Perhaps you’d like to set your landscape apart from the cookie cutters as well, then this plant is for you. If you plant plants in the ground, this plant is for you!

Jim Funai, PhD, is full-time faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, a NALP accredited associate of applied science in hoticulture degree program. He has a PhD in Landscape Engineering and Forestry and is a Licensed Arborist. Shelley Funai is Grounds Manager at Stan Hywett Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio, which offers a historic estate designed by Warren H. Manning and a beautiful manor house museum. She is Landscape Industry Certified in Ornamental Plant Care.

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440-359-1010 / zoresco.com The Growing Concern | October 2026 | 21

F EATURE ARTI CLE

BUILDING YOUR TEAM:

TAPPING INTO THE NEXT GEN’S IDEAS WITH REVERSE MENTORING

What do General Electric, BNY Mellon and Estée Lauder have in common? They have all discovered the power of flipping the script on mentorship with their ‘reverse mentoring’ programs. GE pioneered this concept back in 1999, when former CEO Jack Welch realized that many of his senior leadership team members were unfamiliar with the internet and other emerging technologies. This prompted him to pair younger, tech-savvy employees with senior managers, where they would meet to learn how to leverage these tools effectively and exchange ideas.

In 2015, Estée Lauder rolled out their reverse mentorship program to ensure senior leaders stay in touch with the mindset of younger consumers. With rapidly evolving technology entering the landscape industry and a multigenerational workforce, reverse mentorships can be an innovative tool that helps your company stay ahead of the curve.

BNY Mellon piloted their reverse mentoring program in 2013 to educate senior executives in technology as well. Their program paired 28-year-old employee, Darah Kirstein, with Gerald Hassell, the CEO of the $44 billion company. Hassell would talk to Kirstein as a sounding board for certain ideas and to better understand how different generations think.

Traditional mentorships are valuable because veteran workers can pass on their knowledge to those newer to the industry. Yet reverse mentorships can be equally valuable because they create a dynamic where senior leaders can gain fresh perspectives and learn about new technology.

22 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

BENEFITS OF REVERSE MENTORSHIPS

Reverse mentorships can help bridge communication gaps between field staff, office teams and leadership, and provide insight into how company messaging is being received. Additionally, reverse mentorships can strengthen your recruiting and retention efforts by appealing younger employees seeking jobs with a greater purpose and demonstrating how your company values team members’ input.

CRAFTING YOUR OWN REVERSE MENTORSHIPS PROGRAM Just as with traditional mentorship, reverse mentorships need a structured program to achieve results rather than relying on informal pairings. First, you need to define clear objectives for the program. Depending on your business, you may be looking to accelerate tech adoption or improve your overall company culture by better understanding workforce expectations. Whatever goal you choose, tie it back to a business outcome, such as efficiency or growth, so you can measure the program’s impact. Establish clear guidelines on how frequently your mentor and mentees will meet, the overall duration of the program, and the discussion topics. For example, BNY Mellon’s program runs for seven months, and pairings are expected to meet at least six times. Mentees are asked what they would like to learn more about, and then matched with mentors who have relevant knowledge or experience in those areas. The mentor and mentee share their communication styles, set shared expectations and learning goals. BNY Mellon has a resource hub that includes conversation starters, monthly agendas, and a topic list to guide conversations. At the end of the program, they have a panel of mentors and mentees who share stories and insights from the experience. When it comes to selecting your mentor and mentee pairs, it’s critical to thoughtfully select individuals who have mutual areas of interest. However, you should also seek to strategically pair individuals with diverse outlooks, such as varied cultural backgrounds or distinct personality types.

Look for mentors who are rising stars within your organization who are comfortable sharing feedback upward. With your mentees, identify senior leaders who are open to learning and discuss potential pairings with them in case there are any conflicts of interest.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS Before rolling out a company-wide reverse mentoring program, start small with a pilot group so you can iron out any kinks that arise. Start with five to 10 pairs within your organization and gather their feedback on how to improve the program first. It’s a good idea to offer training for both your mentors and mentees, as chances are your younger employees will be unfamiliar with how to provide constructive feedback to leadership, and managers may struggle with active listening and not becoming defensive. Both parties need to know how to build trust and rapport with one another. Conduct regular check-ins throughout the program to ensure participants are meeting as scheduled and tangible benefits are being experienced. Without buy-in from the leadership team, reverse mentorships can quickly wither away when mentees repeatedly cancel meetings. When you decide the program is ready to be launched to the broader organization, communicate its purpose clearly to the entire team. A reverse mentorship doesn’t mean mentees are unable to share their wisdom with their younger mentors. In many cases, these relationships are mutually beneficial and encourage younger employees to continue in their leadership journey. As insights are uncovered, integrating them into the business as a whole will boost employee engagement and create a feedback loop that keeps leadership connected to the next generation and the latest innovations. This article was written by Jill Odom for the National Associations of Landscape Professional’s blog, “The Edge”.

The Growing Concern | October 2026 | 23

Membership Renewals Are

Now Open!

Thank you for your support to our association! To renew, click the link below to review and pay your invoice with a credit card or by sending in a check. MEMBER PORTAL In your member portal, can click “View” next to any invoice to download a printable view of the invoice. You can check the “Select Item to Pay” checkbox to enter your credit card information and submit payment online. Payment can also be made via check. If you have any questions, please reach out to Patty via email at Patty@OhioLandscapers.org. We can also help you renew via phone, by calling the Ohio Landscape Association at 440-717-0002. Thank You so much!

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VISIT WWW.OLIGERSEED.COM 24 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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We Build Work Trucks! 440-359-1010 / zoresco.com The TheGrowing GrowingConcern Concern| October | March 2026 | 25

F EATURE ARTI CLE

DR. JIM FUNAI

A CAREER OF COMMITMENT AND PASSION Dr. Jim Funai’s achievements are recognized by the Ohio Landscape Association through the Award for Lifetime Contributions to the Landscape Industry. Each year since 1992, the Ohio Landscape Association (OLA) Board of Directors selects an individual to receive the Lifetime Dedication and Contributions to the Landscape Industry. Jim Funai is the 35th recipient of this prestigious award. Jim Funai was born and raised near Akron, Ohio, to parents Anne and Joe Funai, who have been married for over sixty years. Jim is the youngest of five children, with two brothers and two sisters. He married his wife, Shelley, in 2008. Shelley also works in the horticulture industry at Stan Hywett Hall & Gardens and teaches at Cuyahoga Community College.

26 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Jim’s passion for horticulture came from working on outdoor projects with his father at their family home in Green. In his freshman year of high school, Jim started working at an apple orchard; here he learned to prune trees and care for plants. The following summer he began working at Hoffman Nursery, where his passion for horticulture continued to grow. Thinking that horticulture was just a summer job and that the only path to success was either being an engineer or a doctor, Jim majored in mechanical engineering at The Ohio State University. After finding these classes “miserable”, he met with an academic advisor who encouraged him to pursue

a career in horticulture. In his sophomore year at Ohio State, he changed his major to horticulture. He graduated with Bachelor of Science in Horticulture. After graduation, Jim held several positions in the industry in plant production, tree care, and landscape design/build. He finally settled at Wheeler Landscaping in 2004, working in design and sales. In 2008, Jim joined the Ohio Landscape Association and continues to grow his network in the Green Industry. Mary Wheeler noted Jim’s talent and enthusiasm for training and encouraged him to apply for a full-time professor position at Cuyahoga Community College in the Plant Science & Landscape Technology program, where he still works today. During his tenure at Tri-C he continued his education and earned a Master of Science in Extension Education from Colorado State University and a PhD in Soil Engineering from Mandel University in Brno, Czech Republic. Jim has been a primary force in growing the Plant Science & Landscape Technology program from just a handful of students when he first started to over seventy students in 2026. Through this work, he has built and grown the careers of hundreds of green industry professionals.

27 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Two of Jim’s major career goals at Tri-C were to win the National Collegiate Landscape Competition and to host the event in Cleveland, Ohio. In 2023, Cuyahoga Community College became the third two-year school to win the event championship, and through Jim’s leadership, they were able to repeat this achievement in 2026. In March 2027, Cuyahoga Community College will be the host of the National Collegiate Landscape Competition. Through his hard work and dedication, Jim has been able to meet many of his career goals before his fiftieth birthday. He recognizes that the support of the industry and organizations like the Ohio Landscape Association are what have made many of these achievements possible. He says, “The support of the industry is what has allowed me to develop the program, build the confidence of our students, and grow the Green Industry in Northeast Ohio. The OLA has allowed me to share our message that the Green Industry is for everyone.” The OLA recognizes Jim for his vast industry impact, lifelong learning, and commitment to developing the next generation of Green Industry leaders. Congratulations to Dr. Jim Funai, recipient of the OLA Lifetime Contributions to the Landscape Industry Award!

The Growing Concern | October 2026 | 27

2026

Landscape Ohio! AWARDS

The 29th Annual Landscape Ohio! Awards were held on Thursday, October 8 at Tenk West Bank in Cleveland. The night kicked off with hors d’oeuvres stations and cocktails, and attendees could enjoy the photo booth and networking. After dinner the Awards Ceremony bagan by honoring Dr. Jim Funai with the Lifetime Contributions Award, presented by OLA president, Brandon Baker. Green Industry Scholarship recipients were also recognized. Jim Weidner and Greg Supers Jr. were the emcee’s for the evening. Thank you to everyone who made the night possible, including our judge’s, awards committee members and our sponsors. Congratulations to all of our winners.

OLA GR EEN I N DUSTRY S C HOLA RS H I P W I N N E R S

Haley Ann McNaul $3000 Scholarship

Kamryn Alexis Miller $2000 Scholarship

Kennedy Nicloe Auker $1000 Scholarship

Antonia Tieri

$750 Scholarship

2026 Landscape Ohio! AWARD WINNERS RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE SWIMMING POOLS Sponsored by Valley City Supply

BROTHERS GRIMM LANDSCAPE & DESIGN CO. MERIT AWARD Kuty Residence BROTHERS GRIMM LANDSCAPE & DESIGN CO. HONOR AWARD Liptak Residence MORTON’S LANDSCAPING MERIT AWARD Marshall Project

WATER FEATURE

Sponsored by Bedford Glens Garden Center

BROTHERS GRIMM LANDSCAPE & DESIGN CO. HONOR AWARD Gatto Residence MORTON’S LANDSCAPING HONOR AWARD McClowry Project

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION UNDER $50,000 DEGREE LAWN & LANDSCAPE MERIT AWARD Mueller Residence SASAK LANDSCAPING MERIT AWARD Sopko Project LANDSCAPES BY TERRA MERIT AWARD Stonehaven Court

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION $50,000-$99,999 SAJOVIE BROS LANDSCAPING INC. HONOR AWARD Cortland Fireplace Installation SAJOVIE BROS LANDSCAPING INC. HONOR AWARD Hudson Front Landscape Renovation C&S LAWN & LANDSCAPE, INC MERIT AWARD Sude Residence Project

2026 Landscape Ohio! AWARD WINNERS HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION $100,000 - $299,999 Sponsored by Unilock

SUNCREST GARDENS, INC HONOR AWARD Curran Residence Backyard Project KGK AND COMPANY HONOR AWARD Midwest Courtyard RICE’S LANDSCAPES REDEFINED MERIT AWARD National First Ladies LIbrary & Museum SAJOVIE BROS LANDSCAPING INC. MERIT AWARD Hudson Backyard Design Installation LAND CREATIONS LANDSCAPING MERIT AWARD Catania Residence LAND CREATIONS LANDSCAPING HONOR AWARD Metzler Residence SASAK LANDSCAPING MERIT AWARD Predina

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION $100,000-$299,999 Sponsored by Oldcastle/Belgard

LANDSCAPES BY TERRA MERIT AWARD Fireside Pavilion LOWE’S GREENHOUSE MERIT AWARD Corey Kimble BROTHERS GRIMM LANDSCAPE & DESIGN CO. MERIT AWARD Firestone Country Club BROTHERS GRIMM LANDSCAPE & DESIGN CO. HONOR AWARD Private Residence EXECUTIVE LANDSCAPING MERIT AWARD Dobson Backyard Oasis EXECUTIVE LANDSCAPING MERIT AWARD The Villwock Backyard Oasis

2026 Landscape Ohio! AWARD WINNERS KGK AND COMPANY MERIT AWARD W Residence Project

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION $300,000-$450,000 Sponsored by Sandler by MP Solutions

PONZANI LANDSCAPING CO HONOR AWARD Bonner Project KGK AND COMPANY MERIT AWARD Brick Colonial KGK AND COMPANY HONOR AWARD Greenway Trail

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION OVER $450,000 Sponsored by Vermeer All Roads

MOSCARINO LANDSCAPE & DESIGN HONOR AWARD Encore Event Center KGK AND COMPANY MERIT AWARD Overlook Project

RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE

Sponsored by Lake County Nursery

KGK AND COMPANY Greenway Trail Project GROUND WORKS Siegel Residence

AWA RDS C OMMI T TE E Bryce Brennan, Brennan Lawn & Lawnscape Randy Collins, The Pattie Group Stephen Freitag, Grass Commander Patty Lampert, OLA Katrina Taylor, Kurtz Bros. Paula Welch, Kurtz Bros.

JUDGES Hardscapes Judging

Softscapes Judging

Sarah Bishop, J. Barker Landscaping Rob Cleary, Cleary Brothers Landscaping Chris Kronenberger, Valley City Supply Wendy Valencic, Kurtz Bros.

Greg Malone, Retired from Tri-C Marie McConnell, Lake County Nursery Joe Novosielski, Blades of Grass Landscaping Joe Vasel, Davis Tree Farm Mike Walters, Brian Kyles

34 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

2026 Landscape Ohio! SP ONS OR S We are very grateful for the support from our sponsors. Thank you for your contributions! DESSERT SPONSOR

HORS D’OEUVRES SPONSORS

PHOTO BOOTH SPONSORS

JUDGES’ CHOICE SPONSOR

CENTERPIECE SPONSOR

REGISTRATION SPONSOR

BAR SPONSORS

B Botson INSURANCE

B Botson

INSURANCE

A Higginbotham Partner

CATEGORY SPONSORS

The Growing Concern | October 2026 | 35

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S COLUMN

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS ARE OPEN

PATTY LAMPERT

Executive Director / OLA

Thank YOU for all of your support, and we are so GRATEFUL for all of the amazing things OLA members do to help inspire and build the next generation of landscape leaders! The Ohio Landscape Association helps our members create long-term relationships and build a sense of belonging and community within the Green Industry. OLA provides many opportunities for training, mentorship, networking, professional and leadership development. We engage to make a difference and advocate for policy changes in Columbus, Ohio and in Washington D.C. We are stronger as a collective voice and we welcome your input. Thank You for allowing OLA to engage and make a difference for our community by Educating, Advocating, and Elevating those around us.

RENEW MEMBERSHIP

UPCOMING EVENTS

Visit the website to register. November 4 SANDLER SALES TRAINING Sandler by MP Registration open until November 3. November 19 ANNUAL MEETING: DE-CODING THE H2-B VISA PROGRAM at Woodside Event Center Registration open until November 17. Sponsorships open until November 10. Save the Date December 4 Dormant Pruning

36 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

2026 OLA SPONSORS THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! MAGAZINE ADVERTISERS

EVENING

MEETINGS

EVENTS

• All Lift

• Alta

• Kurtz Bros., Inc.

• Botson Insurance Group

• Bigfoot Landscape Supply

• Davis Tree Farm

• Botson Insurance Group

• Ditch Witch Mid States

• Davis Tree Farm

• Kurtz Bros., Inc.

• Columbus Turf

• Oliger Seed Co.

• Crown Cars

• O’Reilly Equipment

• Eby

• Preston Superstore

• Kurtz Bros., Inc.

• Valley Truck Centers

• Mulch Mule

• Zoresco Equipment

• PC Services, LLC

EDUCATION

Co nta c t Pa tty a b o ut sp o nsorshi p o r a d ve rtising info rm a tio n at Patty@ o hio la nd sc a p ers.org o r 440-717-00 02

• Valley City Supply • Willoway Nurseries

ADVERTISING INDEX 19 2 6 38 13

All Lift Botson Insurance Group, Inc. Davis Tree Farm Ditch Witch Mid States Kurtz Bros., Inc.

24 24 7 9 21

Oliger Seed Co. O’Reilly Equipment Preston Superstore Valley Truck Centers Zoresco Equipment

Find information about advertising in The Growing Concern at https://www.ohiolandscapers.org The Growing Concern | October 2026 | 37

Seasonal Specials!

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GiANT Wheel Loaders

New & Used Equipment Sales, Leasing, Rental, Parts, Service and Training *All products may not be available at all locations.

Contact information for major metropolitan areas Columbus, OH Full Service Branch 3660 Interchange Rd, Columbus, OH 43204 Phone 614-443-9751 | Fax 614-443-9219

Pittsburgh, PA Full Service Branch 9052 Marshall Rd, Cranberry Twp, PA 16066 Phone 724-742-2844 | Fax 724-742-2877

Cleveland, OH Full Service Branch 10224 Avon Lake Rd, Burbank, OH 44214 Phone 330-220-6585 | Fax 614-443-9219

Louisville, KY Full Service Branch 400 Sparrow Dr, Shepherdsville, KY 40165 Phone 502-543-3309 | Fax 502-543-9613

Cincinnati, OH Service Center 3449 Turfway Rd, Erlanger, KY 41018 Phone 513-672-3060 | By Appointment Only

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MAG A ZINE

Fall • Winter | 2026

Outdoor Inspiration See this year’s award-winning landscape projects

Meet this year’s lifetime achievement winner

Retreat at Home

Home is

your sanctuary.

Invite us to help make it one you love.

Breathtaking Ohio landscapes since 1968 | 440.338.1288 | www.pattiegroup.com

OL A AWA R D S ■

Landscape Excellence Ohio Landscape Association COURTESY MOSCARINO LANDSCAPE AND DESIGN

President

Brandon Barker, J. Barker Landcaping Company Executive Director

Patty Lampert

Administrative Assistant Monica Occhetti, CAE, ICE-CCP Advertising Information

Please call 216-377-3693 Website

OhioLandscapers.org

On the Cover Image courtesy Ground Works Land Design

he Ohio Landscape Association (OLA) is proud to present the winners of our 29th Annual Landscape Ohio! Landscape Awards Program. Each year, the Landscape Ohio! Awards recognize the outstanding work of OLA members and celebrate the creativity, craftsmanship and professionalism that define Ohio’s landscape industry. These award-winning projects demonstrate the impact professional landscaping can have on the beauty, functionality and value of the places where we live and work. This year’s competition showcased exceptional projects from across Ohio, each evaluated by a panel of respected industry professionals. We were proud to recognize this year’s award recipients at the Landscape Ohio! Awards, held on October 8th at Tenk West Bank in Cleveland. In the pages that follow, you’ll find a selection of these outstanding projects. We hope they provide inspiration for your own outdoor spaces, whether you’re considering a project today or planning for the future. The OLA also offers a free referral service to connect homeowners and property owners with qualified landscape professionals. Our extensive network of OLA member companies can be searched by ZIP code and project type at ohiolandscapers.org. Congratulations to this year’s award recipients and thank you for continuing to raise the standard of landscape excellence throughout Ohio.

Respectfully,

Brandon Barker, 2026 OLA Board President

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Landscape Ohio! Magazine | Fall/Winter 2026 OLA 117

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Carmyn remotely monitors your fuel tank and automatically dispatches to refill it, ensuring you always have fuel available.

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to learn more! 118 OLA Landscape Ohio! Magazine | Fall/Winter 2026

landscapeohio.com

O L A AWA R D S ■

Career of Commitment

and Passion

Dr. Jim Funai’s achievements are recognized by the Ohio Landscape Association through the Award for Lifetime Contributions to the Landscape Industry.

COURTESY JIM FUNAI

ach year since 1992 the Ohio Landscape Association (OLA) Board of Directors selects an individual to receive the Lifetime Dedication and Contributions to the Landscape Industry. Jim Funai is the 35th recipient of this prestigious award. Jim Funai was born and raised near Akron to parents Anne and Joe Funai who have been married for over 60 years. Funai is the youngest of five children — with two brothers and two sisters. He married his wife Shelley in 2008. Shelley also works in the horticulture industry at Stan Hywett Hall & Gardens and teaches at Cuyahoga Community College. Funai’s passion for horticulture came from working on outdoor projects with his father at their family home in Green. In his freshman year of high school, Funai started working at an apple orchard. There he learned to prune trees and care for plants. The following summer he begam working at Hoffman Nursery, where his passion for horticulture continued to grow. Thinking that horticulture was just a summer job and that his only path to success was either being a engineer or a doctor, Funai majored in mechanical engineering at The Ohio State University. After finding these landscapeohio.com

“ The OLA has allowed me to share our message that the Green Industry is for everyone.” — Dr. Jim Funai classes “miserable,” he met with an academic advisory who encouraged him to pursue a career in horticulture. During his sophomore year at Ohio State, he changed his major to horticulture. He graduated with Bachelor of Science in Horticulture. After graduation, Funai held several positions in the industry in plant production, tree care and landscape design/build. He finally settled at Wheeler Landscaping in 2004 working in design and sales. In 2008, Funai joined the Ohio Landscape Association and continues to grow his network in the Green Industry. Mary Wheeler noted Jim’s talent and enthusiasm for training and encouraged him to apply for a full-time professor position at Cuyahoga Community College in the Plant Science & Landscape Technology program, where he still works today. During his tenure at Tri-C he continued his education and earned a Master of Science in Extension Education from Colorado State University and a PhD in Soil Engineering from Mandel University in Brno, Czech Republic. Jim has been a primary force in growing the Plant Science & Landscape Technology program from just a handful of students

when he first started to over 70 students in 2026. Through this work he has built and grown the career of hundreds of green industry professionals. Two of Funai’s major career goals at Tri-C were to win the National Collegiate Landscape Competition and to host the event in Cleveland. In 2023 Cuyahoga Community College became the third twoyear school to win the event championship, and through his leadership they were able to repeat this achievement in 2026. In March 2027, Cuyahoga Community College will be the host of the National Collegiate Landscape Competition. Through his hard work and dedication, Funai has been able to meet many of his career goals before his 50th birthday. He recognizes that the support of the industry and organizations like the Ohio Landscape Association are what have made many of these achievements possible. “The support of the industry is what has allowed me to develop the program, build the confidence of our students and grow the Green Industry in Northeast Ohio,” he says. “The OLA has allowed me to share our message that the Green Industry is for everyone.”

Landscape Ohio! Magazine | Fall/Winter 2026 OLA 119

■ OL A AWA R D S

28TH ANNUAL WINNERS

HONOR AWARDS

RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE SWIMMING POOLS Brothers Grimm Landscape & Design Co. – Liptak Residence

WATER FEATURE Brothers Grimm Landscape & Design Co. – Gatto Residence

WATER FEATURE Morton’s Landscaping – McClowry Residence

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $50,000-$99,999 Sajovie Bros Landscaping Inc. – Cortland Fireplace Installation

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $50,000-$99,999 Sajovie Bros Landscaping Inc. – Hudson Front Landscape Renovation

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 Suncrest Gardens Inc. – Curran Residence Backyard Project

120 OLA Landscape Ohio! Magazine | Fall/Winter 2026

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O L A AWA R D S ■

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 Brothers Grimm Landscape & Design Co. – Private Residence

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 KGK and Company – Midwest Courtyard

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 Land Creations Landscaping – Metzler Residence

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $300,000-$450,000 Ponzani Landscaping Co. – Bonner Project

HONORS & JUDGES CHOICE

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $300,000-$450,000 KGK and Company – Greenway Trail

landscapeohio.com

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, OVER $450,000 Moscarino Landscape & Design – Encore Event Center

Landscape Ohio! Magazine | Fall/Winter 2026 OLA 121

■ OL A AWA R D S

28TH ANNUAL WINNERS

HONOR AWARDS

HONORS & JUDGES CHOICE

RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION, OVER $125,000 Ground Works – Siegel Residence

COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION, OVER $500,000 EMI – Grandview Crossing

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING Northern Territory Lighting – Ivano Park

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING Light up Columbus – Symphony of Light

CHECK OUT PAGE 89 FOR THE FULL LIST OF THE 28TH ANNUAL

HONOR AND MERIT AWARD WINNERS

BEST USE OF COLOR EMI – Green Legacy

122 OLA Landscape Ohio! Magazine | Fall/Winter 2026

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28TH ANNUAL WINNERS

MERIT AWARDS

O L A AWA R D S ■

16 1

16 2

RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE SWIMMING POOLS Brothers Grimm Landscape & Design Co. – Kuty Residence

RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE SWIMMING POOLS Morton’s Landscaping – Marshall

16 3

16 4

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, UNDER $50,000 Degree Lawn & Landscape – Mueller Residence

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, UNDER $50,000 Sasak Landscaping – Sopko

16 5

16 6

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $50,000-$99,999 Landscapes By Terra – Stonehaven Court

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $50,000-$99,999 C&S Lawn & Landscape Inc. – Sude Residence

16 7

16 8

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 Landscapes By Terra – Fireside Pavilion

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 Lowe’s Greenhouse – Corey Kimble

landscapeohio.com

Landscape Ohio! Magazine | Fall/Winter 2026 OLA 123

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28TH ANNUAL WINNERS

MERIT AWARDS

16 9

10 16

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 Brothers Grimm Landscape & Design Co. – Firestone Country Club

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 Executive Landscaping – Dobson Backyard Oasis

16 11

16 12

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION. $100,000-$299,999 Executive Landscaping – The Villwock Backyard Oasis

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 KGK and Company – W Residence

16 13

16 14

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 Rice’s Landscapes Redefined – National First Ladies Library & Museum

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 Sajovie Bros Landscaping Inc. – Hudson Backyard Design Installation

16 15

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 Land Creations Landscaping – Catania Residence

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 Sasak Landscaping – Predina

124 OLA Landscape Ohio! Magazine | Fall/Winter 2026

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O L A AWA R D S ■

16 17

16 18

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $300,000-$450,000 KGK and Company – Brick Colonial

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, OVER $450,000 KGK and Company – Overlook

16 19

20 16

RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE Ground Works – Kennedy Residence

COMMERCIAL MAINTENANCE MJ Design – MJ Design Associates

16 21

22 16

COMMERCIAL MAINTENANCE EMI – Jerome Village

RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $30,000-$125,000 Executive Landscaping – The Gantler-Cetrone Residence

23 16

24 16

RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $75,000-$125,000 Executive Landscaping – The Limber Residence

RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION, OVER $125,000 KGK and Company – Twenty Eight

landscapeohio.com

Landscape Ohio! Magazine | Fall/Winter 2026 OLA 125

■ OL A AWA R D S

28TH ANNUAL WINNERS

MERIT AWARDS

25 16

26 16

COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION, OVER $500,000 Moscarino Landscape & Design – Encore Event Center

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING Suncrest Gardens Inc. – Curran Residence Backyard Lighting

27 16

28 16

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING Lowe’s Greenhouse – Corey Kimble

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING Northern Territory Lighting – Saxon Destination

29 16

30 16

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING Rice’s Landscapes Redefined – Private Residence

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING JFD Landscapes – Gilmore Academy

16 31

32 16

SPECIALTY GARDENS MJ Design – MJ Design Associates - Gardens

SPECIALTY GARDENS EMI – Green Legacy

126 OLA Landscape Ohio! Magazine | Fall/Winter 2026

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33 16

FULL LIST OF THE 28TH ANNUAL

MERIT AWARDS RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE SWIMMING POOLS 1 Brothers Grimm

Landscape & Design Co. Kuty Residence

BEST USE OF COLOR MJ Design – Squirrel Bend Residence

FULL LIST OF THE 28TH ANNUAL

HONOR AWARDS RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE SWIMMING POOLS

A Brothers Grimm Landscape & Design Co. Liptak Residence

WATER FEATURE

B Brothers Grimm Landscape & Design Co. Gatto Residence WATER FEATURE

C Morton’s Landscaping McClowry

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $50,000-$99,999

D Sajovie Bros Landscaping Inc. Cortland Fireplace Installation

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $50,000-$99,999

E Sajovie Bros Landscaping Inc. Hudson Front Landscape Renovation

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999

I Land Creations

Landscaping Metzler Residence

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $300,000-$450,000

J Ponzani Landscaping Co. Bonner Project HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $300,000-$450,000: HONOR & JUDGES CHOICE

K KGK and Company Greenway Trail HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, OVER $450,000

L Moscarino Landscape & Design Encore Event Center RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION, OVER $125,000: HONOR & JUDGES CHOICE

M Ground Works

Siegel Residence

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999

COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION, OVER $500,000

F Suncrest Gardens Inc.

N EMI

Curran Residence Backyard Project

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999

G Brothers Grimm Landscape & Design Co. Private Residence

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999

H KGK and Company Midwest Courtyard

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Grandview Crossing

2 Morton’s

13 Rice’s Landscapes

Landscaping Marshall

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, UNDER $50,000 3 Degree Lawn &

Landscape Mueller Residence

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, UNDER $50,000 4 Sasak Landscaping

Sopko

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $50,000-$99,999 5 Landscapes By Terra

Stonehaven Court

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $50,000-$99,999 6 C&S Lawn &

Landscape Inc. Sude Residence

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 7 Landscapes By Terra

Fireside Pavilion

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 8 Lowe’s Greenhouse

Corey Kimble

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999 9 Brothers Grimm

Landscape & Design Co. Firestone Country Club

O Northern Territory Lighting

10 Executive Landscaping

P Light up Columbus Symphony of Light BEST USE OF COLOR

Q EMI

Green Legacy

W Residence

RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE SWIMMING POOLS

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000-$299,999

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

12 KGK and Company

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000$299,999

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING Ivano Park

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000$299,999

Dobson Backyard Oasis

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION. $100,000-$299,999 11 Executive

Landscaping The Villwock Backyard Oasis

Redefined National First Ladies LIbrary & Museum

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000$299,999 14 Sajovie Bros

Landscaping Inc. Hudson Backyard Design Installation

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000$299,999 15 Land Creations

22 Executive

Landscaping The Gantler-Cetrone Residence

RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $75,000-$125,000 23 Executive

Landscaping The Limber Residence

RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION, OVER $125,000 24 KGK and Company

Twenty Eight

COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION, OVER $500,000 25 Moscarino

Landscape & Design Encore Event Center

Landscaping Catania Residence

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

HARDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $100,000$299,999

Inc. Curran Residence Backyard Lighting

16 Sasak Landscaping

Predina

26 Suncrest Gardens

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

27 Lowe’s Greenhouse HARDSCAPE Corey Kimble INSTALLATION, $300,000LANDSCAPE LIGHTING $450,000 28 Northern Territory 17 KGK and Company Lighting Brick Colonial Saxon Destination HARDSCAPE LANDSCAPE LIGHTING INSTALLATION, OVER $450,000 29 Rice’s Landscapes Redefined 18 KGK and Company Private Residence Overlook

RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE 19 Ground Works

Kennedy Residence

COMMERCIAL MAINTENANCE 20 MJ Design

MJ Design Associates

COMMERCIAL MAINTENANCE 21 EMI

Jerome Village

RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION, $30,000$125,000

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING 30 JFD Landscapes

Gilmore Academy

SPECIALTY GARDENS 31 MJ Design

MJ Design Associates Gardens

SPECIALTY GARDENS 32 EMI

Green Legacy

BEST USE OF COLOR 33 MJ Design

Squirrel Bend Residence

Landscape Ohio! Magazine | Fall/Winter 2026 OLA 127

■ OL A AWA R D S

THANK YOU TO OUR 2026 Landscape Ohio! SPONSORS & JUDGES Landscape Ohio! SPONSORS • Alvord’s Yard and Garden Equipment, aygoh.com • Bedford Glens, bedfordglens.com • Belgard/Oldcastle, belgard.com • Bigfoot Landscape Supply, bigfootlandscapesupply.com • Botson Insurance, higginbotham.com/locations/botson • Columbus Equipment Company, columbusequipment.com • Davis Tree Farm, davistreefarm.com • Green Vision Materials, greenvisionmaterials.com • Heritage Landscape Supply, heritagelandscapesupply.com • Kurtz Brothers, kurtz-bros.com • Lake County Nursery, lakecountynursery.com • Lowe’s Landscaping, lowesgreenhouse.com • Mulch Mule, mulchmule.com • Preston Superstore, prestoncars.com • Rusty Oak Nursery, rustyoak.com • Sandler by MP Solutions, go.sandler.com/mpsolutions • Schill Landscaping, schilllandscaping.com • SiteOne Landscape Supply, siteone.com • Sweet Peet/Urban Organics, sweetpeetohio.com • Unilock, unilock.com • Valley City Supply, valleycitysupply.com • Vermeer All Roads, vermeerallroads.com

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Landscape Ohio! JUDGES

JUDGING HARDSCAPES:

JUDGING SOFTSCAPES:

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CHRIS KRONENBERGER VALLEY CITY SUPPLY

JOE NOVOSIELSKI BLADES OF GRASS LANDSCAPING

WENDY VALENCIC KURTZ BROS.

JOE VASEL DAVIS TREE FARM & NURSERY MIKE WALTERS BRIAN KYLES LANDSCAPING

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