Issuu

Growing Concern

The

November 2014

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

Annual Meeting November 13, 2014 PAGE 7

Build a Better Landscape Business Northeast & Central Ohio November 2014 PAGE 33

Landscape Industry Certification PAGE 12

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President’s column

THERE ARE NO PROBLEMS, ONLY SOLUTIONS While my son was growing up, he would often say to me, “Dad, I have a problem,” and I always had a very simple answer for him, “son, there are no problems, only solutions.” I thought it was prophetic, but like any other child he ignored my wisdom and got right to telling me what his problem. I liked the line so much that I caught myself using it at work both with co-workers and customers alike. I have always enjoyed the challenge of problem solving anything. Whether it is a design problem or consulting a customer on business practices, the line has always applied to the situation. When so-called problems do arise, I often say this to myself as a reminder that the problems I have are not so bad—a solution can always be found. Continuing with this thought, I am reminded of a time when I was faced with a small problem in need of a solution. Many years back a customer of mine would send text messages to a group of us every morning with the heading “Thought of the Day.” At first I smirked, quickly moved on

with my busy day and essentially brushed it aside. Then, occasionally, he would get too busy and didn’t send them everyday. They would sometimes come and eventually stopped altogether. I then realized, without really knowing it, I had been looking forward to these messages and once they stopped I actually missed them! When I asked him why he stopped he said it just became too much work. I then took the torch to carry on these insightful messages. Soon I learned he was right. It took much more time than I thought— this was the problem. Not wanting inspirational thoughts to end, I devised a solution. I had determined sending it weekly—as a “Thought of the Week”— was just as effective and much more manageable. I sent it out to everyone in my company, and also the guys that originally sent them to me. I assume many recipients either don’t look at them, or do and delete them right away. They may not get out of it what I get out of it, and that’s okay! Even if only one person enjoys the thought, it is a success! I believe in this continuous motivation, and as one of continued on page 6

Joe Twardzik, CID Wolf Creek Company

…a solution can always be found.

The Growing Concern x November 2014 x 3

Ta b l e o f c o n t e n t s N o v e m b e r 2 0 1 4 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 9240 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 Sandy Munley, Ohio Landscape Association Regular Writers 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 Joe Twardzik, CID, Wolf Creek Company

Features

President’s Column

There Are No Problems, Only Solutions

Fiscal Fitness

Financial Jokes

For Safety Sake

Identifying

And Preventing Health And Safety Hazards In The Workplace

Perennial Focus

Old Favorites, New Cultivars 2014 Edition

Tough Decisions

Directions

Milestones

Inside Every Issue

35 37 38

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.

Plant Of The Month

Pinus bungeana Lacebark Pine

32 Ten Tips For Leaders Making 36

Advertising Information Submission deadline: 10th of month prior to publication month. For advertising and classified rates, please call 1-800-335-6521

ClassifiedS Advertising Index Welcome New Members

Officers President Joe Twardzik, CID President-Elect Steve Moore Treasurer Bryan Taynor Immediate Past President James Arch, ASLA OLA Staff Executive Director Sandy Munley Membership Coordinator Jean Koch

Directors Eric Brubeck, ASLA Adam Capiccioni Nathan Kowalsick Maria McConnell Cathy Serafin

Ca l e n d a r o f EV 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

NOVEMBER

OLA Annual Meeting NOVEMBER 13, 2014 The November meeting is the OLA Annual meeting. Chuck Bowen of Lawn and Landscape Magazine will present the State of the Industry Report. RSVP by November 3. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA Build a Better Landscape Business – NE Ohio NOVEMBER 18-19, 2014 Back by popular demand! Two-day workshop. Take the guesswork out! Learn your costs, build a budget for your company and learn how to estimate your work for profit! Workshop instructed by Landscape Management Network. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA Build a Better Landscape Business – Central Ohio NOVEMBER 20-21, 2014 Back by popular demand! Two-day workshop hosted and sponsored by Ohio CAT, Columbus, OH. Take the guesswork out! Learn your costs, build a budget for your company and learn how to estimate your work for profit! Workshop instructed by Landscape Management Network. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

DECEMBER

OLA Pruning Clinic – NE Ohio DECEMBER 1, 2014 Learn proper pruning techniques to promote plant health and control the size of plant material. Classroom and outdoor hands-on session included. Hosted by Willoway Nurseries in Avon, OH. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers. org. Hurry – This is always a sell-out!

OLA Pruning Clinic – Central Ohio DECEMBER 2, 2014 Learn proper pruning techniques to promote plant health and control the size of plant material. Classroom and outdoor hands-on session included. Hosted by Willoway Nurseries in Hilliard, OH. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

Landscape Ohio! Awards Program Entry Deadline DECEMBER 5, 2014 All submissions are due in the OLA office by 5 pm. No Exceptions! Be sure to enter Ohio’s most prestigious landscape enhancement awards program. Winning projects are featured in Landscape Ohio! Magazine, a supplement to Ohio Magazine and Cleveland Magazine. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OTF Trade Show & Short Course DECEMBER 9-11, 2014 48th Annual OTF Conference and Trade Show now featuring the OSU Green Industry Short Course! Held at Kalahari Resort and Convention Center in Sandusky, Ohio. OLA is partnering with OTF for this event. Visit the OLA Booth at this show! For more information contact OTF at 614-285-4683 or visit OTFShow.org.

JANUARY

OLA STONE CLINIC – STONE VENEER TECHNIQUES JANUARY 15, 2015 Learn the basics of mixing mortar, installing and grouting stone veneer. Instructed by Doug Shymske, held at Mason Steel in Walton Hills, OH. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA MEETING – NE OHIO JANUARY 29, 2015 This meeting will feature attorneys Kim Alabasi and Joshua Strickland of Dworken & Berstein Co., LPA. Held at St. Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Hts. Details TBA. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

FEBRUARY

GREAT BIG HOME AND GARDEN SHOW FEBRUARY 6 - 15, 2015 Visit the OLA garden at the Great Big Home and Garden consumer show at the I-X Center in Cleveland featuring home improvement and landscape solutions for homeowners. Members are invited to help build and staff the OLA garden. For information on the show visit greatbighomeandgarden.com.

OLA MEETING – CENTRAL OHIO FEBRUARY 19, 2015 This meeting will feature Charles VanderKooi. Sponsored by Belgard Hardscapes. Details TBA. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OHIO GREEN INDUSTRY ADVOCACY DAY FEBRUARY 25, 2015 Learn about the state-level legislative issues that could affect your business and have a unique opportunity to visit with your state Senator and Representative at the State Capitol in Columbus. Details TBA.

MARCH

OLA STONE CLINIC – RIGHT TOOL, RIGHT TECHNIQUE MARCH 5, 2015 Learn age-old techniques to fabricating natural stone, including cutting, rockfacing and making barnstone. Instructed by British Master Stone Mason, Chris Pascoe. Held at Tri-R-Stone in Garfield Hts. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org.

OLA MEETING – NE OHIO MARCH 12, 2015 Maintaining Proper Growth In Your Landscape Business presented by Jason Cupp, Kincaide, Ltd., Kansas City, MO. Held at Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Hts. For more information contact OLA at 1-800-335-6521 or visit OhioLandscapers.org. The Growing Concern x November 2014 x 5

President’s column continued from pg 3 my favorite TOTW (thoughts of the week) from Zig Ziglar says, “People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing — that’s why we recommend it daily.” If I were on twitter I would post these thoughts, but so far I have resisted the requests to join. Instead I would like to share with you some of my favorite thoughts. The subject matters range from productivity to patriotism to just basic motivation depending on my mood or the season. Some quotes are from famous people, and some are from people I know who said something worth noting. “I’m a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it.” – Thomas Jefferson “You can’t Google experience.” – Randy Coleman (friend of mine.) “Success does not consist in never making mistakes but in never making the same one a second time.” – George Bernard Shaw “To be successful you have to have your heart in your business and your business in your heart” – Thomas J Watson “The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good.” – Samuel Johnson “No man is more unhappy than he who never faces adversity. For he is not permitted to prove himself.” – Seneca “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” – Albert Schweitzer “The foundation stones for a balanced success are honesty, character, integrity, faith, love and loyalty.” – Zig Ziglar I hope you enjoyed this small sampling of TOTW I chose for you readers. Even if you didn’t, consider forwarding these thoughts. You never know who may be in need of a little motivating. I enjoyed looking back on some of my favorites from this past year — they still motivate me!

6 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

OLA ANNUAL MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT Northeast Ohio

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A wise man once said that no landscaper is an island. Or something like that. In this presentation, Lawn & Landscape Editor and Associate Publisher Chuck Bowen will share his latest research and insight about what’s happening in the landscape industry nationwide. He’ll give you an idea of where the industry is at present, and where it’s headed in the next few years. This is your chance to learn about not only how you fit into the broader landscape industry, but how most of your colleagues and competition are doing as well. He’ll have ample time for Q&A, so come prepared to ask your most burning questions.

You’ll learn: • Macro-level green industry trends that will make an impact on your business • Why design/build is coming back big, and how you can take advantage of it • Employee salary ranges, and other key benchmarking data from L&L research • What commercial property managers and homeowners think about landscapers, and why they hire and fire their service providers • Ideas on marketing, communication and recruiting from some of the best landscapers in the country • How landscapers are adopting social media and mobile technology, and how you can best use it

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Fiscal Fitness

Michael J. Donnellan King Financial, Inc.

FINANCIAL JOKES It has been a couple years since the last series of financial jokes, and I believe they are long overdue. Enjoy! A yuppie was opening the door of his BMW when a car came along and hit the door, ripping it off completely. When the police arrived on scene, the yuppie complained bitterly about the damage to his car. “Officer, look what they’ve done to my Bimmer!” “You yuppies are so materialistic, it’s ridiculous” retorted the officer. “You’re so worried about your stupid BMW, you didn’t even notice that your left arm was ripped off.”

A study of economics usually reveals that the best time to buy anything was last year. “Give me your money,” he demanded. Indignant, the affluent man replied, “You can’t do this – I’m a US Congressman!”

“Oh, my!” screamed the yuppie, noticing the bloody stump where his arm used to be. “My Rolex!”

“In that case,” replied the robber, “Give me MY money!”

Late one night a mugger wearing a ski mask jumped into the path of a well-dressed man and stuck a gun in his ribs.

What’s another name for long term investment? A failed short term investment! continued on page 10

8 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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Fiscal Fitness continued from pg 20 A study of economics usually reveals that the best time to buy anything was last year. An economist is an expert who will know tomorrow why the things he predicted yesterday didn’t happen today. Money can’t buy you true love. It does however put you in a good bargaining position. What leads most people into debt? Trying to catch up with people who are already there.

My wife’s purse was stolen the other day. It had all her credit cards in it. I was going to report it but the thief was spending less than she was! A family man says: I now know why I used to love Christmas as a child. I did not have to pay for the gifts! Q: Why did God create stock analysts? A: In order to make weather forecasters look good.

What’s the best way to get in touch with your long-lost relatives? Win the Lottery.

During the most recent stock market downturn, a stockbroker was asked how he slept at night. The broker responded, “I sleep like a baby. I wake up screaming and crying every two hours.”

If you think no one cares about you, try missing a couple of payments.

A bank is a place where they lend you an umbrella in fair weather and ask for it back when it begins to rain. It was graduation day and Mom was trying to take a picture of their son in a cap and gown, posed with his father. “Let’s try to make this look natural” she said. “Junior, put your arm around your dad’s shoulder.” The father answered, “If you want it to look natural, why not have him put his hand in my pocket?” As the end of the year approaches, this is a good time to review your portfolios with your advisors. And that’s no joke!

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 number (440) 878-9676.

10 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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F o r Sa f e t y Sa k e

IDENTIFYING AND PREVENTING HEALTH AND SAFETY HAZARDS IN THE WORKPLACE By Andy Stones Health and safety for employees in the workplace should be the top priority for businesses. Not only the many different types of potential hazards need to be identified, but how a business can take appropriate measures to counteract and minimize those potential risks to its employees. Ensuring that each risk is identified can mean the difference between employee negligence when an accident occurs and actual accident prevention. It can’t be documented just how much health and safety measures that have been put in place by businesses have actually prevented accidents in the work place. However, there is no doubt that these safety measures have prevented many accidents and even deaths in the workplace. Sometimes there are incidents in the workplace that could not have been prevented and in which case is classed as an unfortunate incident.

14 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Identifying Potential Workplace Hazards There are certain methods that employers can take in order to identify hazards in the workplace, including: • Simply walking around the workplace premises and writing down any potential risks to employees. • Ask employees if they have noticed any other potential hazards and/or if they have experienced any mishaps, due to the work surroundings or equipment that they have been provided with. Employees are in the workplace every day and have a good idea as to what is and isn’t needed in order to keep them safe. Not only that, but employees will appreciate an employer’s approach for their opinion. continued on page 16

MY CENTS IS BUILT STRONG! I am at CENTS each January because there is always something to learn about what to do and what not to do. I stay up to date on new plant material, operations and business training improvement, plant diseases, pests and more! CENTS University gets me ready for anything the year ahead might hold. Shawn Rine Rine Landscape Group, Inc.

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F o r Sa f e t y Sa k e continued from pg 14 • P roviding the correct equipment and maintaining the equipment is a very important aspect when it comes to health and safety in the workplace; some employers can find themselves in breach of the law due to incorrect or lack of correct equipment. In order to examine the workplace thoroughly and efficiently, these following steps can be taken: • Take notice of what exactly occurs in the workplace when employees carry out tasks; do so over a period of time. Looking at how and which practices are carried out on a daily basis gives an employer a much better and clear perspective as opposed to a works manual. • A nalyze and take into account all non-routine and intermittent tasks carried out; this can help identify any further potential health and safety risks. • Take into account as many foreseeable events that are unplanned, but can interrupt workplace tasks, for example, fire procedures and practices.

Identify Long-Term Health Hazards When carrying out health and safety checks in the workplace, make sure that any possible long-term health hazards are identified and acted upon. There are several factors to take into consideration such as, exposure to loud noise, harmful substances and elements (asbestos fibers, chemicals etc.), psychosocial risk factors amongst many more. There are a few things that employers can do to identify any potential long term health hazards: • G o through the company’s accident and ill-health records to identify any previous health and safety cases that could have been a result of long term exposure etc. There are further sources whereby information can be gathered from: • A sk manufacturers’ and/or suppliers’ for their instruction manuals for any equipment used. Data sheets can also be obtained to help identify long-term health and safety risks.

16 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Take notice of what exactly occurs in the workplace when employees carry out tasks… • Browse the internet for information regarding occupational safety and health. Make sure the websites are relevant and well-known for example, the Health Safety Executive site. • Look for and gather information provided by national bodies, trade associations or trade unions. • Identify the laws and regulations that are relevant to the industry and look at what measures have and can be taken to help reduce risks. • Identify all employees whom may be at risk from long-term risks and ensure the correct protective clothing is worn at the appropriate times. Additionally, make sure that the employees, who are at risk, know that they are at risk. However, this is not to say that all employees’ names are identified through making a list of each individual, but more the groups of workers e.g. personnel working in the laboratory. The public must also be taken into consideration. If an employer is still uncertain in regards to the health and safety procedures needed to be followed, a health and safety competent person can be hired to help identify any further potential hazards and risks to employees and the public’s safety.

Author Bio: Andy works in the health and safety industry as part of health and safety consultants Sheffield and has spent many years and much experience in the field. The articles on GoArticle.coms are provided for information purposes only and for redistribution as outlined in our guidelines. GoArticles does not accept any responsibility or liability for the use or misuse of the article content on this site or reliance by any person on the site’s contents.

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DON’T FORGET The Time is Now to Take Photos of Your Jobs! Rules and Entry Forms Available Now! visit www.ohiolandscapers.org or call the OLA at 1-800-335-6521 Entries are due Friday, December 5th by 5 pm at the OLA office.

TIPS TO ENTER Fight the Urge to Procrastinate • Keep designs current and show the job as it was actually installed. • Take pictures throughout the different seasons-especially if entering for seasonal color! • Always carry a camera with you. It is easier than finding time to get back at a later date and missing that perfect photo opportunity. • Take plenty of shots so that you can submit the very best. • Take pictures early enough so that you have time to shoot again if needed. • Take before and after shots from the same location. Let the Picture Tell the Story • Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words. • If you framed a great view, created an outdoor room or have a great focal point, allow the picture to show it. • Use approprite lighting - Judges can’t make out details of dark or bleached out pictures. Morning, late afternoon, or cloudy days are often better for your photo shoot. Allow the Jobs to Mature • Sometimes a season or two of growth on plants or aging of fresh cut stone can make an average job a great one. (Make sure that the project is maintained.) • Projects that are up to 5 years old qualify to enter. Help the Project Look "Lived In" • You created an outdoor room. If the grill is in the garage, move it out to the patio. If the table umbrella is closed, open it. • Also, an empty bench or table looks better with a pitcher of iced tea and a pair of drinking glasses on it. Tidy Up Before You Shoot • Remove any debris or clutter such as litter, leaves, garbage cans, children’s toys or hoses. • Shoot High - Shoot Low • Sometimes the angle of a shot can make a nice picture even better. • Be creative - take aerial shots from a ladder or rooftop, but remember to put safety first! • Shoot low to the ground or from inside a planting bed with the tops of a tree, shrub, or some flowers framing the picture.

Sell the Project • Explain how you solved a unique problem, met some unusual challenge, or worked out a difficult client request. • Be sure to note if you feel one part of the garden is of questionable taste, but was a client’s desire or own addition. • If you enter a project in more than one category, always write a new description that relates to the category and describes details relevant to that category. Make the Judges' Job Easy • Your photos and descriptions should represent the work you did on the property. Work done by others should not be the focal point of your entry photos and descriptions. • Be very concise and to the point in the descriptions of your project. Do not exceed the word limits, but do tell your story. However, be sure to explain your project thoroughly. Saying only “view from the east, view from the west, etc.” does not help the judges understand your project. • Make sure that designs are readable and that the photos are in their proper sequence. Think BIG • Even the smallest of jobs can be an award winner! • Occasionally, it may be advantageous to enter a particular section of a larger project. • Be confident! If you have never entered in the past, don’t be intimidated. Never, Never, Never Quit • If at first you don’t succeed, try again. • Network with association members and others who have entered projects in the past.

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The Growing Concern x November 2014 x 19

Plant Of the Month

Jim Funai, COLP Cuyahoga Community College

Shelley Funai Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

PINUS BUNGEANA

LACEBARK PINE

With November comes a time when most of us in the industry are shifting our brains into active snow and ice management mode. Take a moment and reflect on the year past though. We presume you were in planning mode for the upcoming snow season back in July and August. This is just one of the traits of professionals in our industry that makes us great; we are playing a game of chess with Mother Nature and need to be several steps ahead or we quickly fall behind. Landscape design is a similar game. We have to think far beyond the current season when creating a landscape plan, and make certain the garden looks great year round. November can be a time when poor landscape design hits hard. We just got over the euphoria of October with its glorious fall colors, cool campfire nights and pumpkin spiced everything. Now take a moment to look around; it is cold, wet, and plants look boring. We have found this same lack of planning for winter interest showing up even more in rain gardens (which are showing up everywhere). Sure, we can blame it on the architects and engineers, who may or may not, have knowledge of plants other than what they found on wiki-whatever. However, are we, as Green Industry Professionals, pushing back and offering good suggestions for

We have to think far beyond the current season when creating a landscape planâ€Ś proper design? We get it, large commercial bid jobs donâ€™t exactly offer the opportunity to make suggestions while submitting our bids, but there is a time and place for us to make our voices heard. We want to make this a good time for us to offer a winter season garden star that you could be incorporating more in your work. continued on page 22

20 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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Plant Of the Month continued from pg 20 Pinus bungeana (Lacebark Pine) is not just a great evergreen, but also a great evergreen for the rain garden. This ornamental evergreen tree needs well-drained soils in full sun. Well-drained soils you say? But this is a rain garden and it is designed to hold all the storm water. Not accurate. The rain garden should be designed to act as a storm surge buffer in times of heavy precipitation; with well-draining soils that will not stay above field capacity for longer than 24 to 48 hours. The top elevations in a rain garden should be incredibly well-drained areas, and provide a perfect opportunity to add some evergreen interest to the garden. Far too many of the rain gardens that have been installed across Northeast Ohio look like a patch of weeds—sorry, native weeds. Is anyone thinking past the warm and fuzzy feeling of planting “all natives” and considering what the common viewer is thinking? We need to keep our focus on the same principles of good design; principles that tell us to include year round interest and a sense of some order to the garden. Lacebark Pine is a great opportunity for this interest. As the common name suggests, the bark is very ornamental on this species. Its bark looks much like old-school camouflage with an irregular patchwork of colors. These colors range from bright greens to grey to reddish brown, tan and even bright white. It may take a few years for this feature to really develop, but the show is worth the wait. Many nurseries will offer this plant in its natural form of multi-stemmed, which is great, as you want to see more of that showy bark. This is a slow growing pine that could reach into the 30 plus foot range but will need some time to do so. Typically the width will be about half the height unless a low branched, multi-trunk form is developed in which case you may find width close to height. Like all pines, this tree will shed older needles in fall, which act as a perfect self-mulching effect. The shedding of these interior leaves creates a more open habit allowing more views of the beautiful bark. Placing this pine at the top of the rain garden (some refer to this as Zone 3) and using plants with more tolerance to periodic flooding towards the bottom of the rain garden (Zone 2 or Zone 1) allows an opportunity for great color combinations. Perhaps working down to the bottom of the garden is a mass planting of Ilex verticillata (Winterberry Holly). Planting I. verticilata ‘Afterglow’ or ‘Chrysocarpa’ brings either a bright orange or yellow respectively which will play off the bark of Lacebark Pine nicely. These bright orange and yellow hollies will also jump out to our eyes better on

22 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

cloudy days than the red fruited winterberries. This one-two plant combo works well because they both prefer an acidic soil, they are very low maintenance, and relatively pest and disease free. If you find yourself interested in exploring the topic of rain garden planting design more, we’ll be at the CENTS show this year sharing a presentation on this very topic that Friday. With the great selection of ornamental plants available to us, we will strike back against the native weed patches that are being installed and blighting our landscapes across the state.

Jim Funai 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. He has an MS from Colorado State and is a licensed arborist. Shelley Funai is the Grounds Manager 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 Shelly via email at hortsquad@gmail.com

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VOLUNTEERS JUDGES & SPONSORS

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Perennial Focus

Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD Bobbie’s Green Thumb

Phlox Coral Creme Drop

OLD FAVORITES, NEW CULTIVARS

2014 Edition

Those of us in the green industry are constantly subjected to claims of this and that cultivar of a known genus is the greatest, the most floriferous, the earliest to flower, the longest to flower, the most disease resistant, etc. However, until we’ve actually grown them in our landscapes, we don’t know whether these claims are hype or reality. Hypericum, commonly known as St.Johnswort, is a woody shrub with yellow flowers and reddish-brown seedheads. There are several cultivars that have been on the market for years. For the past four years, I have been trialing two in the Hypearls series. One died almost immediately but the other has been a winner. In fact, Hypericum Hypearls™ Renu has grown so well that I had to transplant it this year to a different site where it would have more space and the height. When I received it in 2011, it was a tiny plant and I planted at the front of one my perennial beds. By June of this year it was two feet high and wide, shading out many other plants. The flowers are the typical butter yellow with rounded petals held

Which new cultivars do you think live up to their hype? above the green foliage that has a thin red edge when it foliates. The distinguishing traits of this series are the berries which are extremely attractive. The ones on Renu start out as cream but eventually turn bright pink. Others in the series have berries that are cream, salmon, or deep red. Planted in full sun and average to dry soil, these small shrubs will brighten the landscape from June until frost. In early spring, cut back the stems to ground level because the flowers and berries will only appear on new wood. continued on page 28

26 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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Perennial Focus continued from pg 26 I’ve been growing Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Diabolo’ for several years and love its many season appeal: purple foliage, pink buds, white flowers, red fruits and bright orange fall foliage color. It does, however, require a great deal of space because it wants to be the “big guy” — 10’x10’. I am delighted that there is finally a baby sister who has two names: Little Devil™ and ‘Donna May’. She only grows four to five feet high and wide but has all of the other attributes of her big brother. The foliage and flowers are a bit smaller than those of ‘Diabolo’. This is one tough shrub. In my driveway bed, it grows under the most horrendous conditions: partial shade, wet in spring, dry in summer but seems not to be fazed at all.

I’ve been a fan of Helianthemum nummularium (Common Rockrose) for years. They are used quite commonly in England in sunny dry gardens and I purchased ‘Wisley Pink’— a pale pink cultivar with gray foliage—many years ago after I returned from England. In 2008, I received a sample of ‘Hartswood Ruby’. It has deep green foliage and ruby red flowers. Both are planted in the same bed that has outstanding drainage. Unfortunately, this past winter destroyed ‘Wisley Pink’ but ‘Hartswood Ruby’ came through with flying colors. I love the color. If you saw a slice of berry pie that was this color, you would devour it in no time. Even when it’s not in bloom, the form and foliage color are very attractive. Which new cultivars do you think live up to their hype?

Phlox paniculata is a mainstay of the perennial border, but finding cultivars that are truly mildew resistant is a constant search—even when some of the supposedly resistant cultivars still exhibit mildew. I have yet to see it on ‘Coral Crème Drop’ which has been in my garden since 2011. As you might surmise from the name, the flowers are a coral pink and blend very well with virtually any other color. It grows about two feet high in my garden but might only grow eighteen inches in yours.

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.

Helianthemum - Hartswood Ruby

Hypericum hypearls - Compact Yellow and Jacqueline

Hypericum hypearls - Renu

Physocarpus opulifolius - Diabolo

28 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

DORMANT

CLINIC

PRUNING

Presented by

December 1, 2014

December 2, 2014

8:30 am to 12:00 pm

Held at Willoway Nurseries

NORTHEAST OHIO

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CENTRAL OHIO

Avon, OH

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Instructed by Elliott H. Schaffer, ISA Certified Arborist/Horticulturist Giveaway Item Sponsored by

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The most important landscape maintenance practice is the control of plant size by the correct method of pruning to retain the natural branching characteristics of the plants and integrity of the landscape design. Dormant Pruning of Landscape Plants is a half-day, hands-on clinic and a timely training opportunity for you and your crews to get back to the basics and learn the proper way to prune in time for winter and early spring pruning. GENERAL INFORMATION: This seminar will include a lecture as well as hands-on training. Attendees will need to bring their own notepad and pen, hand pruning shears, a small pruning saw, and long handle lopping shears, and will need to dress appropriately for outdoor practical training. As an attendee, you will receive a gift provided by A.M. Leonard including a pair of pruners, knife and leather sheath. Register early as class size is limited 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. December 1st Clinic - Northeast Ohio

December 2nd Clinic - Central Ohio

OLA Members $69

NON Members $99

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DORMANT PRUNING CLINIC

Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9240 Broadview Rd, Broadview Hts., OH 44147 Register online, by mail, by phone or by fax: Phone 440-717-0002 or 1-800-335-6521 • Fax 440-717-0004 • www.ohiolandscapers.org

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www.willowaynurseries.com Corporate Offices / Main Nursery 4534 Center Road Avon, Ohio 44011-0299 Email: sales@willowaynurseries.com Toll Free: 866-934-4435 / Fax: 440-934-5826

Avon

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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

Columbus

6981 Scioto Darby Creek Road / Hilliard, Oh. 43026 Toll Free: 888-593-5999 / Local: 614-777-9859 Fax: 614-777-1276 E-mail: Jack@willowaynurseries.com Jack Johnston, Manager

Support those who support You! They are... • OLA members and advertisers who supply goods and services • OLA members who sponsor OLA events

You’ll find them... • Inside the pages of the OLA Membership Directory • Among those advertising inside The Growing Concern and the OLA Membership Directory • Displaying as a sponsor at OLA meetings and education events • Inside The Growing Concern’s pages with event sponsor acknowledgements

The Growing Concern x November 2014 x 31

Make sure you are making a business decision and not an emotional decision.

Ten Tips For Leaders Making Tough Decisions By Kevin Dee Any Leader needs to make tough decisions. CEOs tend to have the unique additional challenge of making such decisions as the final decision maker. It is a subtle, yet sometimes daunting, difference. At any other level within an organization there is someone else to challenge/stop/change or just agree with the tough calls. The buck stops with the CEO which means she/he is ultimately responsible for all company decisions. Experienced CEOs will generally get the calls right and know that, because they are not infallible, there will sometimes be mistakes.

He/she knows that ultimately making a decision is always better than a “no decision” and most mistakes can be fixed if necessary. Some leaders run into trouble, by making poor decisions, or by avoiding making decisions. In my experience there are a number of reasons for this: • They are unwilling to get/listen to the right input before making a decision. continued on page 34

32 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

BUILD A BETTER November 18-19, 2014

Presented by

November 20-21, 2014

NORTHEAST OHIO

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8:30 am to 4:30 pm (Both Days)

NORTHEAST OHIO Held at Cuyahoga Valley Career Center

8:30 am to 4:30 pm (Both Days)

Held at Held at Cuyahoga Valley Career Center Ohio CAT Brecksville, OH Columbus, OH You won’t be sitting back listening to what you should be doing – you’ll be busy actually doing it, using your own numbers to create a budget and a plan for greater profit. The instructors are landscape contractors who’ve built some of the top companies in the landscape industry from the ground up. The program has been described as the ultimate business management tool for a contractor. Build a plan to ensure your business is positioned to make money and a pricing system that links to your plan. And it’s all ready for work the very next day!

Let us show you how simple it is to... • Target profitable sales and spending goals • Calculate the right hourly rates and markups using your own financials • Close more deals, faster with proven estimating methods • Create clear goals and job plans for crews • Track job progress and give scoreboards to crews • Implement bonus/incentive systems based on performance

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November 20-21 - Central Ohio

OLA Members $149

NON Members $199

OLA Members $199

NON Members $249

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 November 20-21 Columbus

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BUILD A BETTER LANDSCAPE BUSINESS Make checks payable and send to: Ohio Landscape Association, 9240 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

continued from pg 32 • Th ey think they have all the answers themselves. • Th ey become paralyzed by the amount of input to the situation requiring a decision. • Th ey lack confidence in their ability to make the right call. • Th ey are worried about upsetting some people with their decision. If the leader having a problem is not the CEO, then the problem can be solved quickly by a decision made by a more senior executive. If the leader having a problem is the CEO, the impact on the organization is significant. CEOs MUST be willing to make tough calls, and be seen to act on decisions. The majority of those decisions should be sound decisions. This builds confidence and trust, which in turn creates a healthy leadership team. “Lead me, follow me, or get out of my way.” – General George Patton Here are some thoughts on my experiences as a CEO making tough calls. 1. Get all of the input that you need, from whatever source. NOT just from your executive team. 2. Truly listen. Some leaders “listen to talk”, you must “listen to understand”. 3. Understand that you can’t please all of the people all of the time. 4. Be sensitive to those who will not like your decision. 5. When it is a big decision, give yourself enough time, but don’t go beyond the “right amount of time”. If you have all the facts, and nothing is going to change, it is time to make your call.

34 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

6. Make sure you are making a business decision and not an emotional decision. 7. When the decision is complex I like to get outside of the office to think it through. My ideal is to get on my motorbike and let everything else go; it is amazing how often this brings clarity! 8. Communicate, communicate, and communicate. Listen before and explain after! 9. Some people will need more time to understand and absorb your decision, if possible take the time to explain it to them. 10. Know your own weaknesses, and get the right advisors to help you with those. I am not a detail guy, but I have detail people I trust implicitly. “Inability to make decisions is one of the principal reasons executives fail. Deficiency in decision-making ranks much higher than lack of specific knowledge or technical know-how as an indicator of leadership failure.” – John C. Maxwell Tough decisions will define you as a leader; do not shy away from them!

This article has been republished from Articlebase.com — a free article directory where you can submit and find articles. You can publish your articles for free or find content for your website, ezine, or newsletter. This article was provided by Kevin Dee for use on Articlebase.com Direct link to article: http://www.articlesbase.com/leadership-articles/ ten-tips-for-leaders-making-tough-decisions-7105697.html

CL A SSIFIED s For an up-to-date listing of all classified/help wanted ads, please visit ohiolandscapers.org OPENINGS - ACCOUNT MANAGER + DESIGN/ARCHITECT/ SALES + SALES Moscarino Outdoor Creations is an award winning design company, a leader in commercial lawn maintenance/snow management and has exceptional opportunities to join our team of professionals as we expand our service line: LANDSCAPE ACCOUNT MANAGER LANDSCAPE DESIGNER/ARCHITECT/SALES LANDSCAPE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SALES Compensation packages will be tailored for experienced individuals. Valid Driver’s License Required. EOE/Drug and Smoke Free Workplace. PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR FULL LIST OF JOB POSITIONS AND JOB DESCRIPTIONS: www.createmylandscape.com/job-opportunities/ GROUNDS COORDINATOR Kendal at Oberlin has a non-exempt, full-time position opening for Grounds Coordinator in Facility Services. Essential Job Functions: This position works closely with and reports to the Facility Operations Manager in supervising and scheduling the daily activities of the groundskeeping staff performing corrective and preventive measures on Kendal grounds. This maintenance includes lawns, planting beds, shrubs, trees, flowers, walkways, roadways and paths. Operates and maintains power equipment essential to mowing, fertilizing, snow removal and other related tasks. Qualifications & Experience: The following is required: • strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to comprehend written and oral instructions in English. • good attention to detail and have the ability to train, critique, evaluate and direct staff in the performance of their jobs in accordance with Kendal’s Values and Practices. • minimum of 5 years’ experience in grounds maintenance or related field with at least 2 years’ supervisory experience; • excellent plant identification, irrigation, pruning, turf management and landscape design skills; • valid Ohio pesticide license or obtain in first year of employment; • excellent computer skills and ability to learn and implement Trims Tree Management software and The Maintenance Authority software; • capable of safely operating and maintaining standard yard tools and grounds power equipment; • possess a valid operator’s license and insurable with Kendal’s insurance carrier; • well-organized and capable of producing quality workmanship results; • self-motivated and able to work with little or no supervision; • pleasant, friendly personality and capable of dealing with all people in a cooperative, can-do manner.

OPENINGS - CONSTRUCTION DIVISION MANAGER + LANDSCAPE MAINTENENCE FOREMAN + LANDSCAPE DESIGN/BUILD FOREMAN + LAWN FERTILIZATION TECH + LAWN CARE DIVISION MANAGER Bella’s Lawn & Landscape is a locally owned and operated landscape firm seeking qualified individuals to join our team of professionals located in Toledo, OH. This is an outstanding opportunity for the right individual with a growing company. Our work environment is safe, professional, and rewarding. As we continue to grow, we are currently looking for our next great employee to join our successful team! CONSTRUCTION DIVISION MANAGER Looking for an individual experienced in hardscape/softscape installations with management skills to motivate crew members and complete projects. Extensive knowledge of constructing paver patios, outdoor kitchens, retaining walls, landscape lighting, and plantings is a must. This individual will sell, manage, & ensure quality on all jobs. Division managers are responsible for maintaining their division’s profit margin. LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE FOREMAN & DESIGN BUILD FOREMAN The foreman takes full responsibility for the crew and all aspects of it, including vehicles, trailers, equipment, tools, and supplies. In addition, the foreman takes responsibility for ensuring results for quality, customer satisfaction, and efficiency. LAWN FERTILIZATION TECH AND/OR MANAGER As a lawn care professional, you will be responsible to service customer’s lawns as you apply fertilizer, weed treatments, grub applications, seeding, aeration, & more while ensuring fantastic customer service and delivering A+ results! You may also be responsible for accurately measuring lawns, providing quotes and / or lawn analysis, and making field sales. The ideal person will have excellent communication skills, be self-reliant and responsible, a problem solver, 1-3 years turf experience is preferred, but if willing to learn and motivated, we will take that into consideration. We are a Growing Company with Big Opportunities. Do you want to be a part of our success? We have experienced growth over the last 10 years and are looking for managers in training, foreman, and technicians to support our growth. If you would like to be a part of our fantastic team please apply now! Compensation will be determined upon evaluation of an individual’s experience. A valid driver’s license is required for all positions. Please email resume to: careers@bellaslawnandlandscape.com

Please submit all resumes to Attn: Human Resources 600 Kendal Drive Oberlin OH, 44074 or online at www.kao.kendal.org KENDAL IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER, COMPLIES WITH ADA, AND SUPPORTS A DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE The Growing Concern x November 2014 x 35

Directions

Milestones Each November, it is my pleasure to announce members who are celebrating milestone membership with the OLA. At each 5-year increment, the OLA congratulates members for their years of involvement with the Ohio Landscape Association. Please take special note of one of our founding members of the Ohio Landscape Association that is still an active member, The DiSanto Companies, Inc. As the OLA turns 50 years old in 2015, we are excited to have the DiSanto team celebrate with us!

Sandy Munley Executive Director Ohio Landscape Association

Members that are celebrating 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50 years of membership will be receiving a plaque at our Annual Meeting on November 13th. Those members are:

50-Year Member

20-Year Members

The DiSanto Companies, Inc.

American Beauty Landscaping, Inc. Avon Landscaping, Inc. Best Truck Equipment – Mower Division Calanni Landscaping Chagrin Pet, Garden & Power Equipment DTR Associates, Inc. Hunter Green Services, Inc. Landesco Landscape Design Company Landscaping By Mark, Inc. LTD Landscapes, Inc. MPM Landmark, LLC New Beginnings Landscape, Inc. Oberlander’s Tree and Landscape, Ltd. Ohio CAT R.B. Stout, Inc. Vizmeg Landscape, Inc.

35-Year MemberS Tony DiVincenzo Landscape Thomas J. Malak Landscapers, Inc.

30-Year Members Abate Landscaping and Greenhouses Connelly Landscaping Co., Inc.

25-Year Members American Turf Landscaping Hoehnen Landscaping Company Ianiro Landscape Development Impullitti Landscaping, Inc. MGM Landscape Contractors, Inc. Outdoor Concepts Landscape Contracting, Inc. Sohars/RCPW, Inc. Turfscape, Inc. The Yard Works, Inc.

15-Year Members Bobcat of Akron – A Division of Leppo Bruno’s Landscaping & Grounds Care, Inc. CareWorks Consultants, Inc. CDL-Training Consultants

Century Equipment Chesterland Nurseries Daniel’s Landscape & Design, Inc. Ditch Witch of Ohio, W. PA, W. NY Eastside Landscaping, Inc. Mike Bass Ford – Commercial Truck Division Pro Touch Lawn Care Valley Truck Center VanCuren Services, Inc.

10-Year Members Aaron Landscaping, Inc. Cutting Edge Lawn & Landscape, Inc. Good Nature Organic Lawn Care GreenSource LLC Huggett Sod Farm Lenhardt’s Lawn Care, Inc. Lewis Landscaping & Nursery, Inc. Moscarino Outdoor Creations, Inc. Rolling Meadows Lawn Care, LLC SACS Consulting & Investigative Services SuperFleet Fueling Program Sweet Peet/Urban Organics/FreeLand Soils continued on page 38

36 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Advertising Index

2 Botson Insurance Group

15 CENTS Marketplace 39 CrewTracker Software 19 Davis Tree Farm & Nursery, Inc. 6 Irrigation Supply 17 Klyn Nurseries, Inc. 9 Mason Structural Steel, Inc. 17 Medina Sod Farm 27 Meyer Products 13 MRLM Landscape Materials 11 OTF Snow & OSU Short Course 9 RCPW/Soharâ€™s 17 Shearer Equipment 23 Unilock 21 Valley City Supply 13 VanCuren Tree Service 31

Willoway WDC

19 Wolf Creek Company 37 Zoresco

The Growing Concern x November 2014 x 37

Directions continued from pg 36 Members celebrating 5 years of membership will receive a 5-Year Certificate at the annual meeting:

5-Year Members

Allegro Property Services, Inc. Application Systems Consultants The Arms Trucking Co. Augustine Landscaping C-Scape Enterprise, LLC Cornerstone Landscaping, Inc. DAG Landscaping E.F. Pouly Company Environmental Horticultural Services Hidden Creek Landscaping, Inc. Houk Landscapes, LLC MRLM Landscape Materials/JTO, Inc. Palmer’s Landscaping Perry Lawn Care & Landscaping D. Peterman Landscaping & Snow Plowing Rice’s Tree Service & Landscaping Sharp Edge Tree & Landscape Thompson Landscape & Design Western Reserve Landcare, LLC

Publisher of Lawn and Landscape Magazine will present the findings of their State of the Industry survey. It will be a very interesting meeting that will provide current industry trends as well as a look at what the future may hold. How does your company stack up to your colleagues on a local and nationwide basis? Also, don’t forget that November 1st started our new membership year. I hope that we have earned your support and that you have renewed your membership, or plan to do so soon. Given the current economic and political conditions, it is more important than ever for your business to be a part of the Ohio Landscape Association. We strive to provide many educational opportunities for you and your staff to keep on top of your game and up-to-date with your skills. Check our calendar of events and our website for a full listing of what we have planned. There are many upcoming opportunities and more to be announced soon.

It is great to look over such an impressive list! Congratulations to all. We have a great speaker lined up the Annual Meeting on November 13th, too. Chuck Bowen, Editor and Associate

Also, be sure to check out the OTF Tradeshow and Conference this year. There are a lot of exciting changes for OTF—the show and conference are being held December 9–11 at Kalahari in Sandusky, Ohio. The OSU Short Course that was traditionally in January in Columbus has also moved and is co-locating with the OTF Tradeshow and Conference at Kalahari. OLA will have a booth at the show and is one of the partnering organizations. Come visit us there! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families!

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS !

The Ohio Landscape Association is delighted to welcome the following new members to the association: REGULAR MEMBER: LWB Design, LLC

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS: A.M. Leonard

5900 Som Center Rd., Suite 12-PMB241 Willoughby, OH 44094 (216) 359-1178 Lindsey Baker

PO Box 816 Piqua, OH 45356 (937) 773-2694 Jennie Hewitt

STUDENT MEMBER: Cuyahoga Community College:

GMS

Wendy Knapp

3296 Columbia Rd. Richfield, OH 44286 (330) 659-0115 Makenzie Rizzo

38 x Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Mentor MFG 5782 Heisley Rd. Mentor, OH 44060 (440) 551-9051 Steve Schulz

Plowz & Mowz 301 E. Seneca St. Manlius, NY 13104 (315) 484-5098 Conor Byrnes

9240 Broadview Road Broadview Hts., OH 44147-2517

11/14

LANDSCAPE ENHANCEMENT

AW A RD S PR OGR AM DEADLINE TO ENTER DECEMBER 5, 2014

Rules, Regulations, and Entry Forms Available Now

ohiolandscapers.org