The Growing Concern - January 2013

Growing Concern

The

January 2013

A p u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e O h i o La n d s c a p e A s s o c i a t i o n

Computer Estimating Clinic January 22, 2013 – Central Ohio PAGE 17

OLA Meeting January 24, 2013 PAGE 7

Landscape Design Course, Part I January 30-31, February 2, 2013 PAGE 18-19

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President’s column

Second Go ’Round As I write this article at the beginning of December, it is my hope that when you read this we are still atop the “Fiscal Cliff” and not careening into the abyss. Time will be the truthsayer.

So how do you keep a project, your company or your overhead from going over a cliff? It could be by learning new construction techniques, improved efficiencies or better ways to estimate a project. Is it better to track costs or trim out the waste? Winter can present the perfect time to focus and to ask what can be done to make next year easier and more profitable.

Our OLA Educational Series offers a lot of upcoming opportunities to help you learn and grow. I encourage you to attend but also to send your employees as well. We have a Computer Estimating Clinic scheduled for January in Central Ohio; the Landscape Design Short Course Series in January, February, and March; and, a Stone Clinic in March. Our Education Committee is currently working on scheduling additional classes for late Winter/early Spring, so be sure to check the OLA website for updates.

I would like to welcome two new OLA Board members; Cathy Serafin, ASLA, RLA and Jason Cromley. Cathy works at Suncrest Gardens in Peninsula and Jason comes to us from Hidden Creek Landscaping in Columbus. We are excited to have them on

the board and look forward their input and ideas. We are especially excited to have another board member from the Columbus area. This is a sign the OLA message is getting out and people and companies are taking notice.

2013 has started unexpectedly as I have volunteered to stay on as OLA President for a second term in lieu of relaxing as Past President. I am again honored to accept this position and look forward to working with the Board and our membership to further promote the green industry in Ohio.

For those of you who don’t know me, I am a landscape designer with Vizmeg Landscape based in Stow. I have worked there for the past eight (8) years with my primary functions being design, sales and project management. I received my BS in 1991 in Landscape Architecture, and, before moving to Northeast Ohio, I lived and worked in the Columbus area. When not landscaping, I enjoy golf, mountain biking, hiking, and camping with my family.

JAmes Arch, ASLA Vizmeg Landscape, Inc.

Winter can present the perfect time to focus and to ask what can be done to make next year easier and more profitable.

We (your OLA Board of Directors) want and need to hear from you. This is your association and your industry. If you have an idea on how to better the OLA and promote this great industry, let’s talk about it. Every one of us will benefit from a strong landscape industry. You are welcome to help us get there.

The Growing Concern x January 2013 x 3

Ta b l e o f c o n t e n t s J a n u a r y 2 0 1 3 w w w. o h i o l a n d s c a p e r s . o r g

Ohio’s Professional Green I n d u s t r y A s s o c i at i o n Ohio Landscape Association 9238 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, Ohio 44147 Phone: 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 Fax: 440-717-0004 Web: www.ohiolandscapers.org or www.myohiolandscape.com Editor Lindsay Scott, Ohio Landscape Association

ON THE COVER — Lifestyle Landscaping, Inc. Grafton, OH

Features

3

President’s Column

Second Go ’Round

8

Plant Of The Month

14

Picea omorika Serbian Spruce

Fiscal Fitness

When To Sell

20

Perennial Focus

The Holiday Bookshelf, Part II

26

For Safety Sake

Winter Weather Safety

32 When It Comes To Retirement, Small Business Owners Need A Reality Check

36

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

Officers President James Arch, ASLA President-Elect Joe Twardzik, CID Treasurer Chad Mikin

Directors Patrick Beam, RLA Jason Cromley Josh Hayden Chris Meltzer, MLA Steve Moore Cathy Serafin, ASLA, RLA Bryan Taynor

Directions A New Year!

Inside Every Issue

35 38 38

Regular Writers James Arch, ASLA, Vizmeg Landscape, Inc. Michael J. Donnellan, King Financial, Inc. Jim Funai, COLP, Cuyahoga Community College Shelley Funai, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Sandy Munley, Ohio Landscape Association Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, Bobbie’s Green Thumb

Advertising Index Welcome New Members ClassifiedS

OLA Staff Executive Director Sandy Munley Membership Coordinator Jean Koch Events and Communications Manager Lindsay Scott

Ca l e n d a r o f E V e n t s U p c o m i n g OL A m e e t i n g s , e d u c a t i o n s e m i n a r s a n d o t h e r g r e e n i n d u s t r y e v e n t s

JANUARY

CAVS Ticket Deadline JANUARY 20, 2013 Last day to purchase tickets for OLA Family Fun Night and to watch the Cavs take on the Miami Heat!

Computer Estimating Clinic - CENTRAL OHIO January 22, 2013 Instructed by Jim Huston of J.R. Huston Consulting. Held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Dublin. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA Meeting Announcement JANUARY 24, 2013 Topic: Internet marketing and Customer Relations Management (CRM). Panel: Dennis Fehrenbach (Application Systems Consultants), and Jim McClintock (Company 119). Held at St. Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Heights. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Landscape Design Short Course, Part I January 30-31, February 1, 2013 Part I of three landscape design courses that build on each other.

Instructed by Kathy Stokes-Shafer, APLD. Held at the Cuyahoga Valley Career Center in Brecksville. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

FEBRUARY

Landscape Industry Certified Technician Written Test February 5, 2013 Written test will be offered at the OLA office in Broadview Heights. To check additional dates of when the written test will be offered or for more information on the Landscape Industry Certified Technician Test, visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Central Ohio Meeting Announcement FEBRUARY 13, 2013 Go behind the scenes and join us for a tour of Thorsen’s Greenhouse in Delaware, Ohio. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Landscape Design Short Course, Part II FEBRUARY 26-28, 2013 Part II of three landscape design courses that build on each other.

Instructed by Kathy Stokes-Shafer, APLD. Held at the Cuyahoga Valley Career Center in Brecksville. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Ohio Green Industry Advocacy Day FEBRUARY 27, 2013 Partner with other green industry colleagues and visit state legislators about critical issues important to Ohio’s green industry.

For more information, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

March

Stone Clinic: Right Tool/Right Technique MARCH 7, 2013 Instructed by Chris Pascoe. Sponsored and hosted by Tri-R-Stone in Garfield Heights. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Landscape Design Short Course, Part III MARCH 11-13, 2013 Part III of three landscape design courses that build on each other.

Instructed by Kathy Stokes-Shafer. Held at the Cuyahoga Valley Career Center in Brecksville. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA Meeting Announcement MARCH 14, 2013 Topic: Creative landscape solutions that sell. Speaker: Kevin O’Brien, APLD, Lifestyle Landscaping. Held at St. Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Heights. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA Family Fun Night MARCH 20, 2013 Join the OLA and watch the Cavs take on the Miami Heat. A limited number of discounted tickets are available. Tickets are on sale until January 20, 2013 unless sold out prior. For more information or to register online, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Landscape Ohio! Awards Dinner MARCH 21, 2013 An invitation-only event for those companies that have entered the Landscape Ohio! Awards Program. Held at the Cleveland Botanical Garden. For more information about the Landscape Ohio! Awards program, contact the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

August

Landscape Industry Certified Technician Test August 8, 2013 The hands-on portion of the Landscape Industry Certified Technician Test will be offered on the campus of the OSU/ATI in Wooster. For more information, visit OhioLandscapers.org or call The Ohio State ATI at 330-287-7511.

The Growing Concern x January 2013 x 5

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6 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

OLA Meeting

Announcement 2012/2013 NE Ohio Meeting Sponsors Gold Level

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&

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Dennis Fehrenbach

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In this digital business age, internet marketing and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) are tools that every business needs to know and understand in order to grow.

Is your website just an expensive electronic brochure or is it a great ambassador for your company? Does it portray the same level of quality that you have worked so hard to create for your company? Are you using your online presence to create new opportunities? Learn how to use it as a tool and have potential customers find you and not your competition.

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7:00 pm to 7:30 pm

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REGISTER ONLINE AT OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG OR CALL THE OLA AT 1-800-335-6521 OR EMAIL INFO@OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG

Plant Of the Month

Jim Funai, COLP Cuyahoga Community College

Shelley Funai Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

Picea omorika

Serbian Spruce

It is important to consider what is seen in the winter garden for our region as the deciduous and perennials sleep through the cold for a solid four months. While ornamental grasses do their part to keep some interest in the landscape along with a variety of trees and shrubs lending unique branching or attractive bark, your eye still needs a little more to investigate.

Volumes could (and have) been written about dwarf and weeping varieties of evergreen trees, but, for this month, we’d like to consider the straight species of a majestic needle leaf evergreen called the Serbian Spruce (Picea omorika).

Serbian Spruce has a limited native range existing on well-drained slopes mainly along the Drina River Valley, which forms the border between Serbia and Bosnia/ Herzegovina. Native soils there are on top of limestone mountains giving a slightly higher pH than some evergreens would tolerate. Serbian Spruce occurs alongside of European Beech (Fagus sylvatica), Norway Spruce, (Picea abies), and Austrian Pine (Pinus nigra). The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists Picea omorika as endangered, partly due to many native stands being burned intentionally during the Bosnian War in the early 90s.

Unlike most spruce trees, the Serbian Spruce has a flattened needle more like hemlock than its Picea cousins. On the underside of the needles are two rows of very dense stomata (small holes that allow the leaf to breathe), which give a silver appearance to the underside of the branches. This two tone/bi-color effect is quite eye catching, lending a touch of elegance to the garden. Serbian Spruce is also quite narrow compared to other spruce, usually reaching no further than about 10 feet from its trunk with upswept branches that show off the silver underside of the leaves. While the tree only puts on a moderate 12 inches of growth per year, with time it will touch close to 50 feet or more. continued on page 10

8 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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Plant Of the Month continued from pg 8 All too often we find landscapes with a Norway Spruce (Picea abies) planted 15 feet or less off the corner of a house to provide some sort of framing to the building. Norway Spruce is far too large for this setting, and perhaps if the desired effect is to provide a tall evergreen, one would be much safer in using the Serbian Spruce, as it is likely the most narrow you will find.

Most evergreen trees are often thought of as providing a backdrop to the other, showier plants in the landscape. A look at the cones of many spruce, especially Serbian, will tell a different story. Emerging early in summer, slightly less than 2 inches long, pendulous cones are a deep red/purple sometimes almost black. As they mature, the cones develop a strong cinnamon brown color providing a beautiful contrast to the shiny dark green needles. It is important to appreciate each plant in the landscape for its own unique beauty.

While this tree may not have a beautiful flower to admire, it offers beautiful contrasting leaves, attractive cones, and an architecture that should be welcomed into the landscape.

Serbian Spruce is likely one of the most adaptable of the spruce.

This tree can be found growing in full sun, though it seems to prefer a bit of shade in its day. In its native range, soils tend to have a higher pH but this can also be found happily growing in acidic soils. Pollution tolerance is observed to be high with this plant and perhaps could be considered for more use in an urban and commercial setting. We have seen reports that the tree does not tolerate harsh northern wind through winter, but have not personally observed this to be of concern. Perhaps some thought is warranted when placing in the landscape to provide some protection in winter.

You will find several cultivars of Serbian Spruce on the market.

‘Nana’ is a dwarf form reaching no larger than 5 feet by 5 feet maintaining a rounded habit. The leaves have the same bicolor effect and offer a softer texture than using a Mugo Pine or Bird’s Nest Spruce. A second interesting cultivar found on the market is ‘Pendula’ which behaves similar to the species but only reaching half as high (25 feet) and usually slightly more narrow with heavily weeping branchlets off of tightly upward curved main stems.

Consider this stately evergreen tree for either an accent plant or as a good member of a screen planting to add some texture and form interest.

The only pest that may give some issue is White Pine Weevil (Pissodes strobi), which can cause death of the leader as the larvae feed on the vascular tissues under the bark. You will know if this is an issue by the characteristic shepherds hook and brown needles. While rare on Serbian Spruce, should this become an issue, you must prune out the infested leader and destroy the debris. A new leader can be trained to take over. Cultural control of this pest is to keep White Pine away from other evergreens and proper pruning of infected leaders. A systemic insecticide can be incorporated into your Integrated Pest Management program to reduce risk of killing non-target insects.

Contact sprays can be difficult as the timing must be accurate and any larvae currently under the bark will be missed.

Consider this stately evergreen tree for either an accent plant or as a good member of a screen planting to add some texture and form interest. Planted where a Blue Colorado Spruce (Picea pungens f.

Glauca) can offer some backdrop, the silver undersides of the Serbian Spruce really jump out and provide a beautiful companion planting. Try a grouping of three or more in a screen and your clients will be impressed with your artistic touch that goes beyond the use of the typical Colorado and Norway Spruces, and much more exciting than another White Pine planting.

Jim Funai, COLP, is full time faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, a PLANET accredited, associate of applied science in horticulture degree program, offering many paths to higher education to the green industry. Shelley Funai is a full time Senior Gardener at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio that offers a historic estate designed by Warren H. Manning and a beautiful manor house museum. Both are graduates of The Ohio State University. Contact Jim and Shelley via email at hortsquad@gmail.com

10 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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OLA Meeting

Announcement 2012/2013 NE Ohio Meeting Sponsors Gold Level

March 14, 2013 Developing Creative Landscape Solutions That Sell FEATURING

Kevin O’Brien Lifestyle Landscaping, Inc. Inspiration. We all seek it. And, by using the power of three simple words, “what”, “why”, and “how”, you will find it.

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During this session, Kevin O’Brien, award-winning landscape designer at Lifestyle Landscaping, Inc., will share with us his practical approach to developing creative landscape ideas. He will discuss the importance of thinking inside the box to keep design ideas saleable and offer suggestions for integrating unique concepts into an overall design. Kevin promises to let us get “inside his head” as he leads us on a journey from concept to form, with sample line drawings, photos, and, yes, even a napkin sketch.

Kevin O’Brien has been developing creative, residential gardens throughout Northeast Ohio for more than two decades. He is a 1989 graduate of the University of Montana, School of Forestry, having earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Resource Management. Kevin currently serves as a landscape designer for Lifestyle Landscaping - a design/build firm located in Grafton.

AGENDA 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

REGISTRATION, NETWORKING, FOOD, CASH BAR

7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

PROGRAM AND Q&A

POND SUPPLIES OF OHIO

REGISTER TO ATTEND BY MARCH 4, 2013 HELD AT ST. MICHAEL’S WOODSIDE 5025 East Mill Rd (I-77 & Wallings Rd) Broadview Heights, OH 44147

ZORESCO EQUIPMENT sponsorship opportunities available!

FREE to OLA Members Non-Members $25

QUALIFIES 1.5 CEU

contact 1.800.335.6521

REGISTER ONLINE AT OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG OR CALL THE OLA AT 1-800-335-6521 OR EMAIL INFO@OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

March 7, 2013

Presented by

9:00 am to 4:00 pm Instructed by

Chris Pascoe Tri-R-Stone Held at

Tri-R-Stone Garfield Heights, OH

Sponsored & Hosted by

With the proper tools and the right skills, you can dress stone on the job and save money using age-old techniques.

Join us for this hands-on clinic where you will learn rockfacing, cutting, dressing, coping, splitting, and tooling.

You will learn the difference between sandstone and limestone, and their different varieties and grades that require different techniques; as well as the skills for handling barnstone.

Qualifies for 6 CEUs for Landscape Industry Certified

Chris Pascoe is a Master Stone Mason and has over 25 years of experience in the stone industry. He grew up and studied in England before traveling to the US to work on the Cathedral St. John The Devine in New York city.

Continental breakfast and lunch are included with each registration. Participants will also have the opportunity to purchase quality stoneworking tools in advance of the clinic. REGISTER EARLY - class size is limited to only 24 participants and will sell out quickly!

Cancellations made 8 to 14 days prior to the course start date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds will be issued for cancellations 7 days or less prior to the course, no shows, or cancellations on the day of the course. If, for any reason, the course is cancelled, enrollees will be notified, and fees refunded in full.

Register On Time, Payment Received Before 02/21/13 Register Late, Payment Received After 02/21/13 Firm Address City Phone (______)

OLA Members OLA Members

$129 $159

NON Members NON Members

$169 $199

Contact State Fax (______)

Zip

Email

NAME OF ATTENDEE

FEE $ $

 Check No. ___________ Enclosed

Charge to my

 MasterCard

 Visa

TOTAL DUE

$

Acct. No.

Exp. Date

Name on Card

Signature

Billing Address + Zipcode for Card

Last Three Digits on Signature Line

STONE CLINIC: RIGHT TOOL/RIGHT TECHNIQUE Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9238 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147 Register online, by mail, by phone or fax: Phone 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • www.ohiolandscapers.org

Fiscal Fitness

Michael J. Donnellan King Financial, Inc.

When To Sell Buying a stock is only half of the equation. Knowing when to sell is even more difficult.

Just like stocks sometimes flash signals before making huge gains, they can also show certain characteristics that indicate potential trouble. Here are some things to watch for to learn how to identify the warning signs of a weakening stock.

Market Direction Review the S&P 500, Nasdaq Composite and Dow Jones Industrials price and volume charts. The old adage “A rising tide lifts all boats” applies in the opposite direction also. If the general market trend is negative, consider selling some investments.

One of the most important selling rules applies not only to individual stocks, but to the market as a whole. You may be right

about your stocks, but if you’re wrong in your assessment of the general market, your stocks will suffer. During a market decline, even good stocks have a difficult time swimming against the market’s current. Typically, three out of four stocks go down in a declining market.

Valuation Use fundamental analysis, such as growth rates, P/E Ratios, and earnings per share to determine if your stock is overvalued.

Investors should also consider selling when a stock becomes heavily overvalued compared to their peers. If a company is growing at 15% and has a forward P/E Ratio of 50, then it might be time to pull some money off the table.

continued on page 16

14 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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4825 Center Rd. / Avon, Oh. 44011-0299 Toll Free: 866-934-4435 ext. 2251 / Local: 440-934-3813 Fax: 440-934-4621 E-mail: bowens@willowaynurseries.com Bill Owens, Manager

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The Growing Concern x January 2013 x 15

Fiscal Fitness continued from pg 14 Cut Losses Short Operate with a basic profit-and-loss plan. In a strong bull market you might have a plan to sell and take most of your profits when up 25% to 35% and cut every loss short at 8% to 10%. Your very best performing stocks, in some cases, can be held for a larger potential profit.

Stock Chart Analysis Use charts to improve your timing so you’ll buy at the time where probability of an up move is greatest. Sell if a stock has a long advance and drops below its 50-day moving average line (the average price of the stock over the last 50 trading days) and stays below the line for many weeks, unable to rally.

Keep an Eye on Volume Recognize persistent, heavy volume on the downside and analyze to see if the stock is under major liquidation and needs to be sold. Often, the most important sell indicator is the stock’s price and volume action as shown on a chart. Many times, stocks break down their upward trends before any negative signs emerge from fundamentals, such as earnings, sales, profit margins or return on equity.

If a stock’s price falls persistently on heavy volume, it usually signals a shift in professional investor sentiment in which sellers predominate, making any price advances more difficult. Another red flag is a stock making new price highs on lower or poor volume.

During a market decline, even good stocks have a difficult time swimming against the market’s current.

Other Things to Consider Sell if two quarters of earnings per share show a significant slowdown in their percentage increase.

Do not buy a declining stock that looks cheap on the way down. Do not average down, and don’t try to “bottom fish.” Why try to catch a falling knife?

Study carefully, and learn from your past mistakes so you’ll better take advantage of opportunities in the future.

Every investor has different goals and strategies. I believe it is important for investors to develop rules and strategies to help increase profits and reduce risk.

As always, consult with your financial advisor for information specific to your individual situation.

Michael J. Donnellan is President of King Financial, Inc., in Strongsville, Ohio specializing in stock selection and retirement planning. Feel free to contact him with any questions or comments.

Phone numbers are (440) 878-9676 (888) 780-STOX (7869).

16 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

for landscape maintenance

&

design/build firms

January 22, 2013 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Instructed by

Jim Huston

J.R. Huston Consulting, Inc. Held at Hilton Garden Inn Dublin, OH

This 1-day computer estimating clinic is designed to help you quickly improve your estimating methods and financial systems...helping you to prosper in any economy!

With this clinic, you will:

Qualifies for 8 CEUs for Landscape Industry Certified

• • • • •

receive bid evaluation worksheets for calculating crew rates and service rates prepare your 2013 budget and future annual budgets learn how to calculate your true costs more accurately and learn what to charge for services and products learn your break-even point(s) and know “when to say when” calculate costs specific to your company

“Taking this course provided me with tools to help grow my business and win contracts, while feeling confident that I priced the jobs competitively!” - Dominic Liberatore, Liberatore Landscape Construction, Inc. Attendees will need to bring a laptop computer with Microsoft Excel to participate. For complete course day agenda and attendee supply list, please visit www.ohiolandscapers.org and click on the Education page.

Cancellations made 8 to 14 days prior to the course start date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds will be issued for cancellations 7 days or less prior to the course, no shows, or cancellations on the day of the course. If, for any reason, the course is cancelled, enrollees will be notified, and fees refunded in full.

Register On Time, Payment Received Before 1/8/13 Register Late, Payment Received After 1/8/13 Firm Address City Phone (______)

OLA Members OLA Members

$199 $229

NON Members NON Members

$259 $289

Contact State Fax (______)

Zip

Email

NAME OF ATTENDEE

FEE $ $

 Check No. ___________ Enclosed

Charge to my

 MasterCard

 Visa

Acct. No.

TOTAL DUE

$ Exp. Date

Name on Card

Signature

Billing Address + Zipcode for Card

Last Three Digits on Signature Line

COMPUTER ESTIMATING CLINIC Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9238 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147 Register by phone or fax with MC or Visa: Phone 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • www.ohiolandscapers.org

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

These three landscape design courses build on each other. They are intended for those who have not had any formal design training and who seek a sound working knowledge of the design process. No previous drawing skills are needed.

In class, participants will be drawing their designs, but whether you choose in the future to draw your designs by hand or use computer graphics, you still need to know the basics of good landscape composition. These classes will delve into the design process, sales, and focus on the design principles.

Participants will work on various projects that will enhance your creativity and give you a new way of looking at a property and the client’s needs. Some projects will deal with elevation changes, water features, and plant compositions.

By enrolling in this series of three hands-on courses, participants will be able to demonstrate their knowledge of the landscape design principles and the design process, and will be able to prepare graphically well-drafted landscape

plans for residential properties.

Landscape Design Course, Part I January 30-31, February 1, 2013 Landscape Design Course, Part II February 26-28, 2013 Landscape Design Course, Part III March 11-13, 2013

Instructed by Kathy Stokes-Shafer, APLD Each 3-day course 8:00 am to 5:00/6:00 pm Held at Cuyahoga Valley Career Center Brecksville, OH

recommended for salespeople LANDSCAPE DESIGN COURSE, PART I and account executives No previous knowledge or pre-requisite needed Emphasis is placed on drawing and graphic skills with individual critiques of the lessons. We will go over the design process and discuss sales and working with the client. Class will focus on form/composition and understanding space.

Lectures with slides will precede the drawing and design exercises on:

• • • • • •

• •

functional diagrams, alternatives to foundation planting, techniques of form composition, and some design principles Drawing exercises for two single-family residences, and more!

Learn about new technology to aid in quick designs and sales

LANDSCAPE DESIGN COURSE, PART II Recommended pre-requisite is Course I Participants will delve into the design principles, design themes, force lines, and visualization of spaces. Individual help will be given throughout the process and participants will view lots of slides to spark creativity. Skills taught will include: • • •

Each course qualifies for 27 CEUs for Landscape Industry Certified

Plant and landscape graphic symbols Use of drafting equipment Architect and engineer scales for measuring and creating your plan to scale Techniques of lettering Drawing a base plan The landscape design process: drawing

Quick colored impressions for emphasizing design principles Looking at art and landscapes to see how the design principles are applied Form composition exercise based on design themes and force lines

• •

Emphasis will be on speed for plan drawings Design projects include a condominium garden, corner lot, master plan for single family residence - front and back with pool

LANDSCAPE DESIGN COURSE, PART III Recommended pre-requisite is Course II This course will cover plant composition, designing for major elevation changes, outdoor kitchens, pondless water features and overhead structures - plus more emphasis on the design principles.

• • •

Proper format for plant lists and labeling Plant composition, texture, form, color and function Design principles as they relate to plants and plant placement

• •

Design projects with challenging elevation changes Outdoor living - kitchens, fire pits and overhead structures

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

course

date

Course I

ola member

non-member

before cut-off

after cut-off

before cut-off

after cut-off

January 30, 31, February 1, 2013

$315

$365

$415

$465

Course II

February 26, 27, 28, 2013

$315

$365

$415

$465

Course III

March 11, 12, 13, 2013

$315

$365

$415

$465

registration cut-off date is 14 days prior to the start of each course

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS Course fees do not include supplies and each attendee is responsible for furnishing their own materials. A complete list of supplies are available upon request or by visiting www.ohiolandscapers.org/design. Course manual and lunch are included in each registration fee.

COURSE REGISTRATION Course registration must be received by the OLA office no later than 14 days prior to the start of the course. Space is limited; register early. If paying by credit card, your card will be charged on or around the cut-off date of each course you register for, NOT when your registration is received. That way you are not paying for the course earlier than necessary, but your space is reserved. Payment MUST accompany registration.

Register online at www.ohiolandscapers.org/design, or by mail, fax, or phone.

CANCELLATIONS Cancellations made 8 to 14 days prior to the course start date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds will be issued for cancellations 7 days or less prior to the course, no shows, or cancellations on the day of the course. If, for any reason, the course is cancelled, enrollees will be notified, and fees refunded in full.

Firm Address City Phone (______)

Contact State Fax (______)

NAME OF ATTENDEE

Zip

Email COURSE #

FEE

☐ Course I

☐ Course II

☐ Course III

$

☐ Course I

☐ Course II

☐ Course III

$

☐ Course I

☐ Course II

☐ Course III

$

TOTAL DUE

$

NOTE: We will charge your credit card on or around the cut-off date of each course you register for, NOT when we receive your registration.

This way you are not paying for the course earlier than necessary, but your space is reserved.

 Check No. ___________ Enclosed

Charge to my

 MasterCard

 Visa

Acct. No.

Exp. Date

Name on Card

Signature

Billing Address + Zipcode for Card

Last Three Digits on Signature Line

LANDSCAPE DESIGN COURSE Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9238 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147 Register online, by phone or fax with MC or Visa: Phone 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • www.ohiolandscapers.org

Perennial Focus

Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD Bobbie’s Green Thumb

The Holiday Bookshelf, Part II Only recently have I had time to read a book that was given to me as a gift. Much to my chagrin, I wish I had read it sooner. The Explorer’s Garden: Rare and Unusual Perennials by Dan Hinckley encourages me to continue my career as a plantaholic without having to endure the hardships of plant explorations (I never was an enthusiastic camper).

This book is divided into plant families with an emphasis on descriptions of plants that Dan found in the wild and then grew at Heronswood, his personal garden and nursery. He is very explicit about proper cultivation. Thus, I have now learned why some of the plants I purchased from Heronswood did not survive. On the other hand, I am no longer surprised by the spreading ability of Vancouveria hexandra, a plant that looks delicate but isn’t. I have always loved Corydalis but Hinckley’s observations about this genus have inspired me to delve further into the many species that are available from specialty growers, with the exception of the blue ones that I can’t keep alive. Reading further, however, I learned that Corydalis ‘Blue Panda’ is native to extremely wet sites so I am tempted to try it one more time.

In his discussion of the Geranium family, I had to laugh at Hinckley’s observation that G.procurrens leaves no doubt “as to the meaning of its specific epithet; …it procures every patch of soil in its path….” I also learned that one of my favorite hardy geraniums, ‘Dilys’ is a cross of G.procurrens and G.sanguineum and now understand why it is a restrained weaver.

One of the enchanting chapters is entitled The Wooded Lilies. It encompasses Polygonatum, Disporum, Smilacina, Disporopsis, and Uvularia as well as a few genera that I have yet to try. Thanks to Hinckley’s mail order catalog at Heronswood, I tried several of these genera and concomitant species and cultivars. I have enjoyed most of them immensely. continued on page 22

20 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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With coverages that will protect your property, mobile equipment, fleet vehicles, and more, plus protection against lawsuits and other financial liabilities, we have a policy designed specifically for your business. If your business includes tree trimming services and snow plowing, we can cover those, too! Don’t forget about health insurance and life insurance for you and your employees!

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The Growing Concern x January 2013 x 21

Perennial Focus continued from pg 20 The main problem with reading this book is the frustration of a plantaholic who discovers plants that she must have but for which the only sources seem to be in England. For other readers, it may seem too technical but that is a result of the author’s desire to be very precise in distinguishing one species from another.

Anyone who wishes to explore the genera mentioned in this book should definitely invest in it. Since the book was published in 1999, remainder copies are available at bargain prices.

As always, his photos are invaluable, demonstrating seasonal traits as well as use in the landscape. This is a book that I frequently use to show clients examples of the plants I have included in their designs. I’ve always enjoyed Dirr’s pithy comments and particularly enjoyed one comment on the availability of Thujopsis : “(It makes) a great conversation piece since few people have any idea of its identity…I see no reason for its paucity in commerce.”

Thujopsis just happens to be one of my favorite plants for dry shade.

All of us in the trade have a library of reference books, fewer perhaps than in earlier years now that we can turn to Google for so many answers. However, I doubt that any of us are willing to forego our bible, Michael Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. I am speaking of the illustrated edition that combines his Hardy Trees and Shrubs with his Trees and Shrubs for Warm Climates that were first published in 1997 and 2002, as well as information contained in neither of the previous books. This combination is especially valuable for those of us living on the border between hardy and nearly hardy, particularly in light of climate change and the use of non-hardy plants in containers.

The last few pages of the book consist of a number of lists for plant selection by characteristic or purpose: flower color, flowering sequence, fragrance, fruit, fall color, winter interest, shade tolerance, salt tolerance, tolerance to dry, moist or wet soils, tolerance of urban stress, hedging, weeping or columnar habit.

Google is great but no substitute for a book that encompasses a lifetime of learning.

Google is great but no substitute for a book that encompasses a lifetime of learning.

While it is not a substitute for the more detailed, non-photographic edition, it does have enough information from Dirr’s lifelong trials and experiences with woodies to give anyone a good start.

As Dirr himself states, the emphasis of the book is on the best new introductions of the past ten to fifteen years. I did find it puzzling that he mentioned the dwarf lilac ‘Bloomerang’ but not the Chip series.

I was always amazed by the omission of some genera in his previous book and see that many of them have now been included, e.g., Abelia, Andromeda, Arctostaphylos, Cephalotaxus, and Decumaria, just to mention a few. In addition, he has added new species to specific genera to reflect taxonomic changes that are driving all of us crazy.

22 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Dirr, Michael A., Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs, Timber Press, Portland, 2011, hardback, $79.95.

Hinkley, Daniel J., The Explorer’s Garden: Rare and Unusual Perennials, Timber Press, Portland, 1999, $39.95.

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

VS GAME DAY March 20, 2013

DISCOUNTED TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Join the OLA for Family Fun Night and watch the Cleveland Cavs take on the Miami Heat!

We have reserved a limited number of seats in Section 111 for a special price of $55 per ticket. Each ticket includes a $10 food voucher and commemorative drawstring bag.

Hurry ... these tickets will not last! This game is certain to be a sell out and tickets don’t go on sale to the public until December 14th. Tickets are available until 1/20/13 unless sold out prior.

COMPANY

CONTACT

ADDRESS CITY

STATE

PHONE (______)

ZIP

EMAIL* *EMAIL ADDRESS REQUIRED*



...

CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS. MIAMI HEAT

$55 PER PERSON

NUMBER OF TICKETS

Includes $10 food voucher and commemorative drawstring bag



CHECK NO. ___________ Enclosed

CHARGE TO MY

____

X

$ 55

=

TOTAL

$ ______ $ ______

 MASTERCARD  VISA

ACCT. NO.

EXP. DATE

NAME ON CARD BILLING ADDRESS & ZIPCODE

SIGNATURE CARD SECURITY CODE

CAVS FAMILY FUN NIGHT Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9238 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147 Register online, by mail, phone or fax: Phone 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • OhioLandscapers.org

ohio green industry

ADVOCACY DAY February 27, 2013 COLUMBUS, OH You are invited to join us for the 2013 Ohio Green

REASONS TO ATTEND ADVOCACY DAY

Industry Advocacy Day on February 27th in Columbus.

LEGISLATION

This is a great chance to partner with fellow green industry colleagues to explain issues critical to your business and the size and importance of Ohio’s Green Industry to our state legislators.

Learn about newly introduced bills that will impact our business. Whether it’s on immigration, workers’ compensation or environmental reforms, this is the time for you to voice your concerns.

In these tough economic times, your participation in this grassroots effort is more important than ever before.

BUILD RELATIONSHIPS Elected officials need to be educated about our businesses and our needs. Your help is needed to build these relationships.

To particpate, complete the information below and return it with your registration fee before February 8, 2013 to the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association. Visit OhioLandscapers.org\advocacyday for a tentative agenda for the day.

BUDGET CUTS Learn what these budget cuts might mean for your business.

PARTNERING ASSOCIATIONS

MAKE MEMBERSHIP COUNT A key benefit of your association is the government advocacy it provides and your ability to meet with legislators on behalf of the industry.

CONTACT INFORMATION COMPANY

CONTACT

ADDRESS CITY PHONE (______)

STATE FAX (______)

ZIP

EMAIL

FULL HOME ADDRESS (For purposes of matching you with your legislator)

NAME OF STATE REPRESENTATIVE & SENATOR (If known) I AM A MEMBER OF (Please select)

☐

Ohio Landscape Association

☐

Golf Course Superintendents Association (Ohio Chapter)

☐

Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association

☐

Ohio Lawn Care Association

☐

Nursery Growers of Lake County Ohio

☐

Ohio Turfgrass Foundattion

☐

Ohio Professional Applicators for Responsible Regulation

PAYMENT INFORMATION Return this form, along with payment of $89, to the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association, 72 Dorchester Square, Westerville, Ohio, 43081. Phone: 1-800-825-5062 Fax: 614-899-9489 Checks made payable to the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association. MasterCard and Visa payment accepted.



CHECK NO. ___________ Enclosed

CHARGE TO MY

 MASTERCARD  VISA

ACCT. NO. NAME ON CARD BILLING ADDRESS & ZIPCODE

EXP. DATE SIGNATURE CARD SECURITY CODE

2013

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UNITED STATES DATES & LOCATIONS Jan-08 Jan-10 Jan-11 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17

RALEIGH, NC FREDERICKSBURG, VA DULLES, VA DOVER, DE BALTIMORE, MD FREDERICK, MD

Jan-22 Jan-24 Jan-25 Jan-29 Jan-30 Feb-01

MARS, PA COLUMBUS, OH INDEPENDENCE, OH CAMP HILL, PA KING OF PRUSSIA, PA MOUNT LAUREL, NJ

Feb-05 SOMERSET, NJ Feb-06 MAHWAH, NJ Feb-08 HAUPPAUGE, NY Feb-12 BREINIGSVILLE, PA Feb-14 WINDSOR, CT Feb-15 DANBURY, CT

Feb-19 Feb-20 Feb-21 Feb-26 Feb-27 Mar-01

ROCHESTER, NY VERONA, NY ALBANY, NY WESTBOROUGH, MA NASHUA, NH PORTLAND, ME

F o r Sa f e t y Sa k e

Winter Weather Safety National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Weather Service Snow can shut down an area, especially when there’s a lot of it. Roads become impassable, meaning rural areas can become completely isolated, and travelers may become stranded. Buildings and power lines can collapse under the weight of the snow.

High winds frequently accompany snow and can cause quite a bit of trouble even when it’s not snowing. If there’s already snow on the ground, the winds can drop visibilities to near zero in blowing snow. Wind can cause damage to buildings and bring down power lines. Even if it’s not extremely cold outside, the wind can make it feel much, much colder. The “wind chill” is based on the rate of heat loss from exposed skin caused by combined effects of wind and cold. As the wind increases, heat is carried away from the body at an accelerated rate, driving down body temperature. Animals are also affected by wind chill.

Exposed skin freezes quickly – resulting in frostbite.

Frostbite is damage to body tissue caused by the tissue being frozen. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in extremities, such as fingers or toes. If a person is outside long enough without enough warm clothing – hypothermia (low body temperature) and possible death may result.

Terms To Know Winter Storm Watch – severe winter weather conditions may affect your area. (Freezing rain, sleet, and heavy snow may occur separately or in combination).

Winter Storm Warning – severe winter weather conditions are imminent or occurring, and are expected to meet or exceed selected criteria.

Heavy Snow Warning – a snowfall of at least 6 inches in 12 hours or 8 inches in 24 hours is expected. (Under certain conditions, heavy snow may be included in Winter Storm Warnings.)

Blizzard Warning – considerable falling and/or blowing snow and winds of at least 35 miles per hour are expected for several hours.

High Wind Warning – sustained winds of at least 40 miles per hour or gusts of at least 58 miles per hour or greater are expected to last for at least 1 hour. (In some areas, this means strong gusty winds occurring in shorter time periods.)

Wind Chill Warning – used with wind chills of 25 degrees below zero or colder due to brisk winds and very cold temperatures. continued on page 28

26 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

OLA Central Ohio

Meeting Announcement February 13, 2013 Going Behind The Scenes At Thorsen’s Greenhouse Delaware, Ohio Tour and Networking Meeting

Thorsen’s Greenhouse produces indoor and outdoor blooming plants from poinsettias to pansies to hanging pots to fall mums and resells tropical plants. Their annual sales volume is $5.1 million and they primarily sell to Costco in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus and Pittsburgh. Thorsen’s also sells to florists in an 80 to 90 mile radius of Delaware and opened a small retail area in Spring 2012.

Doug Thorsen began his career in the hardware industry. He was recruited by the owner of Maple Lee Greenhouse to manage their operations. After 16 years he purchased the business in 2000 and changed it’s name to Thorsen’s.

Join us for an evening of networking and tour the operation to see the challenges a large greenhouse operation faces on a day-to-day basis.

AGENDA 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm REGISTRATION, NETWORKING, FOOD

7:00 pm to 8:00 pm

HOSTED BY THORSEN’S GREENHOUSE 2069 Hyatts Road Delaware, OH 43015

TOUR

NO CHARGE TO ATTEND RSVP for your complimentary attendance by February 4, 2013

REGISTER ONLINE AT OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG OR CALL THE OLA AT 1-800-335-6521 OR EMAIL INFO@OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG

F o r Sa f e t y Sa k e

continued from pg 26 Know How To Protect Yourself • K eep supplies on hand - batteries, flashlight, NOAA Weather Radio or otherwise portable radio, extra food and water, medicine and baby supplies, first-aid kit, fuel for heating, emergency heat, and a fire extinguisher.

• Move animals (household pets as well as livestock) to shelter.

Keep extra food and a water source nearby. Most animal deaths in winter storms are from dehydration.

• Winterize your vehicle. Carry blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit, extra clothing, a shovel, jumper cables, matches and a coffee can (for melting snow), compass, road maps, and anything else that might come in handy if you get stuck.

• Keep a full tank of gas in your vehicle.

• Try not to travel alone, and let people know where you’re going, the route you plan to travel, and when you expect to arrive.

Just In Case If you get caught in a winter storm, follow these simple steps, and you will have a better chance of surviving.

Outside • F ind shelter! Try to stay dry, and cover all exposed parts of the body and you’ll have a better chance of not getting frostbite or hypothermia. If you can’t find shelter, you’ll have to make do with what you have. Make a lean-to, a wind break, or even a snow cave to protect yourself from the wind. Build a fire for heat (and to attract attention), and put rocks around it to absorb and reflect heat from the fire.

• Don’t eat the snow! It’s cold, and you’ll lower your body temperature from the inside, resulting in hypothermia. Melt it first.

In a vehicle • S tay in the vehicle. It’s protected from the wind and wind-driven snow. However, you will have to venture outside to make sure

28 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

your tail pipe(s) aren’t blocked, so keep a hand touching the vehicle at all times so you don’t become disoriented.

• Run the motor once in awhile. About ten minutes each hour should be enough to provide a little bit of heat. Crack a window to make sure you don’t get carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Make yourself visible. Tie a colored cloth (red, if possible) to your external antenna or to your door. Raise your hood after the snow stops falling. Turn on the dome light at night while you’re running your engine (don’t keep it on or you’ll run your battery down).

• Exercise from time to time by vigorously moving your arms, legs, fingers, and toes. It will keep your blood moving and keep you warm.

At home or in another building • S tay inside. If you have to use fire as a source of heat, make sure you ventilate and use other fire safeguards.

• If you don’t have heat, close off unneeded rooms, stuff towels in the cracks under doors, and cover your windows at night.

• Eat and drink. Food provides energy for the body to produce its own heat, and fluids will keep you from dehydrating.

• Wear loose, light-weight, warm clothes in several layers. Trapped air insulates. Layers can be removed to avoid perspiration and subsequent chill. Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent, and hooded. Wear a hat. Half your body heat can be lost from your head.

After the storm • D on’t overexert yourself. Many deaths related to winter storms occur after the storm is over. Heart attacks while shoveling snow or pushing a car, a result of a person pushing their body beyond its limits in the cold. Everyone needs to conserve some energy to stay warm. Besides, sweating means putting a layer of moisture on your skin, which will freeze in the cold, chill you, and possibly bring on hypothermia.

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Deeper Discounts for OLA Members!

Mention this ad.

“When you’re out plowing, SO ARE WE! We’ve got you covered!”

The Growing Concern x January 2013 x 29

MAGAZINE

A Consumer Publication Dedicated To Promoting The Green Industry The Ohio Landscape Association recognizes the importance of marketing - not only to promote the association and teach homeowners why they need to hire a professional landscape contractor, but also to promote you, our member.

We have continued our successful partnership with Cleveland Magazine and

Ohio Magazine! The Sping/Summer 2013 Landscape Ohio! Magazine will again feature a combination of our current OLA membership directory and consumer stories, as well as include the winners of the 16th annual Landscape Ohio! Awards Program.

This magazine is a powerful marketing tool and a unique opportunity for you to reach the customers you want. Inserted into the pages of the May issues of Ohio Magazine and Cleveland Magazine, over 55,000 monthly readers will find your advertising message delivered directly into their mailbox. As an added bonus, Landscape Ohio!

Magazine will be available as an electronic magazine via OhioLandscapers.org, MyOhioLandscape.com, and ClevelandMagazine.com.

Special Advertising Opportunity Advertising in the Spring/Summer 2013 issue is now being accepted until 3/8/13.

Additionally, OLA members will receive a FREE basic listing in the magazine’s membership directory, that can be upgraded to add value by purchasing enhancements that can include color logos, photos, and extended descriptions.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS GREAT MARKETING OPPORTUNITY, VISIT OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG OR CONTACT PAUL KLEIN AT GREAT LAKES PUBLISHING AT 216-377-3693 OR KLEIN@GLPUBLISHING.COM

Stand Out

Ohio Landscape Industry Certified Technician Test Partnership

By earning your Landscape Industry Certified Technician certification, you send a message to your clients and/or employers that you’ve met and achieved the industry standard, and have demonstrated a thorough understanding of all the facets of your job.

Landscape Industry Certified Technician Written & Hands-on Test Dates Registration deadline for the hands-on test is June 5, 2013.

February 5, 2013 - WRITTEN TEST (OLA Office in Broadview Heights)

August 7, 2013 - WRITTEN TEST (Ohio State ATI in Wooster)

February 12, 2013 - WRITTEN TEST (Ohio State ATI in Wooster)

August 8, 2013 - WRITTEN TEST (Ohio State ATI in Wooster)

February 19, 2013 - WRITTEN TEST (Thornton’s Landscape in Cincinnati)

August 8, 2013 - HANDS-ON TEST (Ohio State ATI in Wooster)

REGISTER TODAY! Deadline to register for the hands-on test is June 5, 2013. For additional

information about the test, registration information or study materials, visit www.ohiolandscapers.org or www.onla.org, or call The Ohio State ATI at 330-287-7511 or 330-287-0100.

When It Comes To Retirement, Small Business Owners Need A Reality Check What are your retirement plans? Are you expecting to sell your business and retire on the proceeds?

Do you dream of passing on your business to your kids?

A new global survey of small business owners’ succession plans by Sellability Score found that small business owners’ expectations for retirement have changed.

Since 2008, almost half of business owners over age 50 have delayed their retirement due to economic conditions.

Says the study’s lead author and Sellability Score founder, John Warrillow, who also wrote the book Built to Sell: “The recession has had a profound impact on small business owners across the U.S. Older business owners are delaying their retirement, desperately hoping for better market conditions ahead.” continued on page 34

32 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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The Growing Concern x January 2013 x 33

continued from pg 32 Despite the delays in retirement, all is not doom and gloom. Some three-quarters of business owners surveyed say they expect to exit their company in the next 10 years, and 40% expect to exit in the next five years.

More than half of the business owners had already owned their companies for at least eight years.

What do small business owners expect to happen to their businesses when they leave?

Passing a business down from one generation to the next is becoming less popular; just 1 in 10 surveyed say they expect to pass their business on to their kids. By comparison, 61% expect to sell it to an outside buyer, while 10% expect to sell the business to a partner or key employee.

Meanwhile, 14.5% plan to essentially work until they drop, and 8% plan to just shut the business down entirely when they retire.

When they do leave their businesses, one-third of respondents expect the sale of their businesses to fund at least half of their retirement. However, those dreams might well turn out to be pipe dreams, given that a whopping 90% of business owners don’t have a formal exit plan in place.

The survey findings also suggest that small business owners may be underestimating the complexity of selling a business. Just one-third say they expect selling their business to be difficult. However, the majority of businesses in the study were in service industries – which often find it more difficult to sell since these businesses are more likely to be dependent on the owner’s personal efforts to land and keep new business.

34 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

... a succession plan is important for every small business to have.

If you ask me, it’s time for a reality check. First, whether or not you’re planning to retire in the next few years, a succession plan is important for every small business to have. Not only will it make selling your business easier when the time comes, it can also protect your business should anything happen to you unexpectedly.

Second, if you’re expecting the sale of your business to be easy, you’re likely in for a rude awakening. If you haven’t already done so, start now to work with your attorney and accountant and get advice on how to build value in your business. That way, you’ll be better positioned for a successful – and profitable – sale that will see you into a happy retirement (or a whole new venture, if that’s what you choose to do).

Do you have a succession plan for your small business?

Rieva Lesonsky is CEO of GrowBiz Media, a media company that helps entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. Visit her blog, SmallBizDaily. Visit her website SmallBizTrendCast to get the scoop on business trends and sign up for Rieva’s free TrendCast reports.

Advertising Index

39 Belgard Hardscapes

2 Botson Insurance Group

21 Bowers Insurance Agency

15 Davis Tree Farm & Nursery

29 JTO, Inc.

35 Klyn Nurseries

37 Kurtz Bros., Inc.

9 Mason Structural Steel

33 Medina Sod Farms

33 O’Reilly Equipment

Over 1800 Different Species And Cultivars To Meet Your Needs! bamboo grasses perennials ferns vines roses dwarf conifers bog & marginals shade & ornamental trees

9 RCPW/Sohar’s

33 Shearer Equipment

25 Techo-Bloc

38 Three-Z-Supply

11 Unilock

klynnurseries.com

Visit Our Website For Product Availability, Our 2013 Catalog, Quote Form, And More!

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

1-800-860-8104 klynnurseries.com

6 Valley City Supply

29, 38 VanCuren Tree Service

15 Willoway WDC The Growing Concern x January 2013 x 35

Directions

A New Year!

Happy New Year to everyone! While it was not without its challenges (such as very little snow last winter), overall, 2012 was a good year for most of our members and for the OLA as well.

There seemed to be some pent up desire for design/build services and consumers were ready to do some of the projects they have been putting off. At OLA, membership increased again and our events were very well attended and, in many cases, sold out.

Your OLA board of directors, committees and staff are committed to doing their best to bring you great services, programs, and education in the coming year as well. We are constantly looking for ideas and new opportunities to better serve you!

We are always looking for new committee members. Working on a committee is typically not a big time commitment and it is a great way to get more connected with the OLA and others in the organization. We are planning to make better use of committees this coming year and making sure that all committees meet and are given the opportunity to contribute. Let me know if you are interested!

We are excited to see two new board members joining us in 2013.

Cathy Serafin, ASLA, RLA of Suncrest Gardens in Peninsula and Jason Cromley of Hidden Creek Landscaping Inc. in Columbus are both coming aboard. Cathy will be heading our Awards Committee and Jason will be working on both our Membership and Education committees. Both Jason and Cathy bring with them a wealth of industry experience and we are very excited to have them!

Sadly, as new board members come on, some board members must leave. Ending their service to the board are Joe Chiera and Greg Supers II. Joe and Greg made major contributions to the association - Joe by taking OLA Education to the next level and Greg doing the same with our Landscape Ohio! Awards program.

We are extremely pleased that they have both agreed to stay on their respective committees! Additionally, Joe served as our 2011 OLA President and did a fabulous job leading our organization.

36 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Sandy Munley Executive Director Ohio Landscape Association

Your OLA board of directors, committees and staff are committed to doing their best to bring you great services, programs, and education in the coming year as well.

Ohio Green Industry Advocacy Day On February 27th, several green industry associations will partner together to hold an advocacy day in Columbus. The day will include a briefing session to learn about the issues, guest speaker(s) from the legislature, lunch, and personal meetings with your State Senator and Representative. It is a very interesting day of learning, networking, and having your voice heard. If you are interested in being a part of the OLA contingency, please see page 24 for details.

If you have questions about joining an OLA Committee or Advocacy Day, call me at 1-800-335-6521 or email sandy@ ohiolandscapers.org.

I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events over the winter!

The Growing Concern x January 2013 x 37

Bulk Landscape Supplies We carry a complete line including:

Competi tive Prices & Fast Serv ice!

• Double Shredded Hardwood Bark Mulch (Fresh or Aged)

• Colored Hardwood Mulches

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

REGULAR MEMBERS:

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS:

Garden Design

Bowers Insurance Agency, Inc.

1974 Village Court Columbus, OH 43212 (614) 565-2054 Joe Daubel

(Black, Brown, Red, Gold)

• Composted Leaf Humus • Cypress Mulch • Limestone, Washed Gravel, Sand • • • •

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS !

Playground Wood Carpet (ADA Approved) Woodchips Sweet Peet Custom Z Mulch

Call Or Visit Us Online Today!

216-524-4544 • www.three-z.com THREE-Z-SUPPLY

8700 HEINTON ROAD • VALLEY VIEW, OHIO 44125

216-524-4544 • FAX 216-524-5876

Husney Landscape & Irrigation

CST Pavers

PO Box 38221 Olmsted Falls, OH 44138 (440) 748-9300 Jeff Husney

PO Box 7 Lisbon, OH 44432 (412) 925-5898 Susana Kandray

Rock Bottom Lawn & Landscaping

STUDENT MEMBERS:

12565 Prospect Road Strongsville, OH 44149 (440) 238-3808 Ed Lechler

Varkala Services 2472 Warren Parkway, #12 Twinsburg, OH 44087 (330) 348-7422 Matthew C. Varkala

Your Complete Tree Care Specialists

Ohio State University ATI: Amy Miller

Auburn Career Center: Alejandra Arreola Daniel Baumgartner Codie Brewster Micah Breyley Angelina DeFranco John Hood Kristera Kline Ryan Kroymann Keanu Rodriguez Ashley Sanabria Caleb Tramte Chad Trent

CL A SSIFIED s

VanCuren Tree Service can fulfill the needs of your clients to gain an instant impact to their landscape.

transplant trees...

FOR SALE

Up to 9” caliper or approximately 20’ to 30’

SHOP FOR SALE! Landscaping brickyard for sale. Buildings, offices, mulch bins, largest outdoor brick patio display, eleven (11) acres light industrial zoned land, water and sewer, rental income. Possible partial owner financing.

Close to turnpike and I-480. Client list also available.

relocate trees...

That may have been improperly sited or spaced

provide aftercare programs...

To best assure the health of their investment

(440) 338-5005

PO Box 280 Cortland, OH 44410 (800) 837-6146 Gene Francisco

(216) 932-9901

www . vancurentreecare . com

38 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Call Maury Hernandez at (440) 343-1182 or email greentreelandsc@aol.com Greentree Landscaping & Design 12850 Route 83 Grafton OH 44044

9238 Broadview Road Broadview Hts., OH 44147-2517

01/13

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

for landscape maintenance

&

design/build firms

January 22, 2013 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Instructed by

Jim Huston

J.R. Huston Consulting, Inc. Held at

Hilton Garden Inn Dublin, OH

This 1-day computer estimating clinic is designed to help you quickly improve your estimating methods and financial systems...helping you to prosper in any economy!

With this clinic, you will: • receive bid evaluation worksheets for calculating crew rates and service rates • prepare your 2013 budget and future annual budgets • learn how to calculate your true costs more accurately and learn what to charge for services and products • learn your break-even point(s) and know “when to say when” • calculate costs specific to your company

“Taking this course provided me with tools to help grow my business and win contracts, while feeling confident that I priced the jobs competitively!”

- Dominic Liberatore, Liberatore Landscape Construction, Inc. Attendees will need to bring a laptop computer with Microsoft Excel to participate. For complete course day agenda and attendee supply list, please visit www.ohiolandscapers.org and click on the Education page.

www.OhioLandscapers.org • www.MyOhioLandscape.com