The Buckeye May/June 2024

the

BUCKEYE May/June 2024 Vol. 35, Issue 3

MAGAZINE

INSIDE: OGIA 2024 Member Directory Supporting Biodiversity with Residential Landscaping THE BUCKEYE | May/June 2024

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DIAGNOSTIC WALKABOUTS These interactive, hands-on, in-the-moment events are unique alternatives to traditional classroom sessions or passive webinars. Attendees are invited to ask questions and take pictures along the way to customize their educational experience.

June 3 Cincinnati, OH Mt. Airy Arboretum

July 18 Westerville, OH Inniswood Metro Gardens

September 9 Burlington, KY Boone County Arboretum

July 8 Cincinnati, OH Smale Riverfront Park

August 5 Cincinnati, OH September 26 North Olmstead, OH Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Sunset Memorial Park

July 11 Oberlin, OH Kendal at Oberlin

August 8 Akron, OH Summit Metro Park

OGIA.ORG/WALKABOUTS

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IN THIS ISSUE May/June 2024

VOLUME 35 • ISSUE 3 ogia.org THE BUCKEYE is the official publication of the Ohio Green Industry Association and is published six times a year.

EDITORIAL / ADVERTISING ISSN 1536-7940 Subscriptions: $75/year sara@ogia.org OFFICERS David Hupman President White Fir Landscape Consulting Genevieve Reiner-Mills Immediate Past President Oakland Nursery, Inc. Abby Thomas President-Elect Acorn Farms

CONTENTS 4 President’s Perspective Summer’s Arrival

DIRECTORS Joe Lewis Yard Solutions Peter Lowe The Dawes Arboretum Ron Schultz Willoway Nurseries, Inc. Matt Turner Turner Landscaping LLC Joe Vasel Davis Tree Farm & Nursery Lori Zatroch Cuyahoga Community College Gina Zirkle Syngenta STAFF Tracy Schiefferle Executive Director Roni Petersen Membership & Certification Sara Cantees Communications Natalie Mitchell Finance THE FINE PRINT The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, directors or staff and do not constitute an endorsement of the products or featured services. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or their identification as members of the OGIA does not constitute an endorsement of the products or featured services.

6 Executive Director’s Message Engaging Your Industry 7 Supporting Biodiversity with Residential Landscaping 10 OGIA Member Directory 18 Government Affairs House of Representatives Update 20 Native Plants to Try in 2024 22 HR Feature Emotional Stability 19 OGIA Calendar Advertiser’s Index

THE BUCKEYE | May/June 2024

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PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE Summer’s Arrival

A Celebration of Plant Diversity, Cultivation Techniques, and Safety Awareness

BY THE TIME YOU ARE READING THIS, summer is almost here. Whether you are a garden center, a nursery, or are in landscape operations, everyone is DAVID HUPMAN hard at work. We have Mother’s Day and Memorial 2024 OGIA President White Fir Landscape Consulting Day approaching, and this is a time for deadlines hupmanclt@aol.com and big sales volume for all. I enjoy this time of year as everything comes alive and a new plant is blooming every week.

The theme of this month’s Buckeye is plant diversity and cultivation techniques. I recently was in Atlanta and made a trip to the Atlanta Botanical Garden and witnessed plant diversity firsthand. From the Rose Garden to the Camellia Walk to the Conifer Garden and the Edible Garden, plant diversity was on display everywhere. The creativity and the use of different plants together made for an awesome and inspiring display.

However, you don’t have to travel all the way to Atlanta to see diversity on display. The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical prides itself on this. At last year’s Walkabout at the zoo, the whole theme of the tour was about plant diversity and the stability of the ecosystem that has been created because of this.

These are just two examples of plant diversity at work. Some of you probably have success stories of your own using this concept.

Turning our attention to June, it marks National Safety Month, a crucial time to prioritize the wellbeing of our colleagues. Nothing is more important than to have our co-workers go home the same way they came to work that day. The National Safety Council has free resources to use for the month of June. Now is the time to solidify your company’s safety culture and make safety awareness an everyday thought for all. Safety engagement, roadway safety, risk reduction, and prevention of slips, trips, and falls are the focal points for each week. Recognizing that safety is paramount, many companies are taking proactive measures, evident in the vibrant attire of work teams and the increased utilization of safety cones. Customers now scrutinize safety ratings before finalizing contracts, underscoring the importance of ensuring the safety of your teams.

If your company lacks a safety program, there’s no better time to initiate one.

Lastly, I want to take this opportunity to share with you the status of our progress on the revamped certification program. I am amazed and proud to be in an industry that can pull teams of subject matter experts together to collaborate on raising the bar for the benefit of taking certification to the next level. Despite being competitors, individuals set aside their differences in pursuit of solidarity and progress. Across all three certification categories, When I think about cultivation techniques, I think significant strides are being made, with our aim of all the farm fields surrounding my home. One being to finalize our initial collaborations by year’s farm is all no-till, another farm is doing minimal end. cultivation, and another is using a subsoiler to break up the hardpan. However, the techniques discussed Be safe out there. in this issue are of a different nature. A recent webinar on boxwood blight shifted my perspective on cultivation techniques. The ongoing research aimed at identifying plants resistant to boxwood blight is truly remarkable. This extends beyond boxwood, with considerable efforts directed towards other plant species as well.

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SCAN TO LEARN MORE

E X EC U T I V E D I R EC TO R’S M E S SAG E Engaging and Caring About Your Industry: Why You Need to Put In Some Effort To Get Something Back or networking events.

TRACY SCHIEFFERLE

OGIA Executive Director tracy@ogia.org

HAVING RECENTLY COMPLETED 2024 membership renewals, we always make efforts to reach out to those who have not renewed. Having worked with many associations and industries, I often hear “we didn’t get anything out of our membership” as a response to why someone chooses not to renew. It always makes me think of the adage “you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.” As an association, we are here to promote the profession and assist members. Assist is a key word. While OGIA can offer educational programs, certification, workforce development, advocacy, awards, and so on, it really doesn’t matter if you don’t engage in some of it. It’s so easy be self-focused these days. We can get products delivered to us within hours, we can meet with people and take educational courses when we want, and we don’t even have to get out of our pajamas. It’s easy not to pay dues or engage in trade associations these days. However, what does this do for YOUR industry? Does the self-focused approach help to advance YOUR profession?

In any profession or industry, being actively engaged and genuinely caring about what you do can significantly impact your success and satisfaction. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in your career, fostering an interest and investment in your field can lead to numerous benefits, both personally and for your organization.

So why is engagement crucial in any industry?

CONTINUOUS LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT

An engaged professional sees learning as a lifelong journey. When you care about your industry, you’re more inclined to stay updated on the latest trends, research, and best practices. This continuous learning not only keeps your skills sharp but also positions you as a knowledgeable resource within your organization and the broader industry.

Engaged individuals are proactive in seeking out learning opportunities, whether through formal education, conferences, workshops, 6

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OGIA offers educational programs throughout the year for ALL aspects of the industry in person and online. We also offer certification programs to enhance your knowledge.

BUILDING MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS

Caring about your industry often translates into building strong professional relationships. Engaged professionals connect with colleagues, industry peers, mentors, and clients more effectively because they are genuinely interested in the work and its impact. These relationships can lead to collaborations, partnerships, and mentorship opportunities that further enhance personal and professional growth.

OGIA offers programs, an online collaboration area, member and services directories, advertising, and sponsorship to connect with others in the industry.

DRIVING POSITIVE CHANGE

Individuals who are engaged and care deeply about their industry are often passionate about making a difference.

Whether it’s advocating for sustainability practices, improving the workforce, or addressing industry-wide challenges, caring professionals are more likely to take proactive steps to drive positive change. They become advocates for progress and contribute to shaping the future of their industry.

OGIA continually engages in advocacy efforts within Ohio to promote the industry and to ensure that businesses can flourish here.

ENHANCING JOB SATISFACTION

Engagement and care go hand in hand with job satisfaction. When you genuinely care about the work you do and the industry you’re in, you’re more likely to find fulfillment in your job. This satisfaction can lead to higher productivity, lower turnover rates, and overall improved well-being.

OGIA offers several programs to assist you with employees including a free HR hotline, and awards program to showcase their achievements.

Being a Role Model

Engaged professionals often inspire others around them. By demonstrating passion and commitment to your industry, you can positively influence colleagues and future

generations of professionals. Being a role model for engagement encourages a culture of excellence and dedication within your workplace and industry.

OGIA offers the Ohio Landscape Olympics (OHLO) that brings over 200 high school students to gain hands-on experience and interact with industry professionals in addition to scholarships.

DRIVING INNOVATION

When you care about your industry, you’re more likely to be curious and open to new ideas and technologies. This curiosity fuels innovation. Engaged professionals often seek out ways to improve processes, products, or services because they are genuinely interested in seeing their industry evolve and thrive. By staying engaged and caring about the industry’s future, you contribute to driving innovation forward.

OGIA is one of the nations’ top contributors to the Horticulture Research Institute through AmericanHort among other organizations.

CONTRIBUTING TO INDUSTRY GROWTH

Professionals who are engaged and care about their industry contribute to its growth and prosperity. Whether through sharing knowledge, participating in industry associations, or actively contributing to discussions, caring individuals play a crucial role in advancing the collective success of their field.

In conclusion, being engaged and caring about your industry is not just beneficial for personal growth; it’s essential for the health and evolution of the industry itself.

By fostering a genuine interest, staying informed, and actively participating, you not only enhance your own career but also contribute to the greater good of your profession.

So, stay curious, stay engaged, and keep caring—the impact you make can be profound.

And ask yourself what have I done to engage, or to encourage my employees or my peers to engage, within the industry and OGIA.

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SUPPORTING BIODIVERSITY WITH RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPING

BY ALANA SETTLE

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THE LANDSCAPES surrounding our homes and businesses are playing an increasingly important role in preserving wildlife. As natural habitats dwindle, insects, birds, and mammals greatly depend on suburban areas for food, shelter, and nesting sites.

More than ever, the green industry has the power to restore and protect biodiversity through various nature-based solutions, but can consumers support bringing “nature” back to the suburbs?

According to the Homegrown National Park, an organization founded by entomologist and native plant advocate Doug Tallamy, there are four ecological functions every landscape must perform if it’s to enhance biodiversity. It must: • • • •

Support a variety of pollinators throughout the growing season Provide energy for the local food web Manage the watershed Remove carbon from the atmosphere

In their research, ASLA identified these design strategies as most effective at increasing biodiversity: •

•

•

•

Incorporate native species and consider their wide range of benefits to the ecosystem, such as stormwater retention, phytoremediation, and soilnutrient restoration.

Support pollinators with a wide range of flowering plants, considering the season in which the plant blooms, the types of flowers plants produce, pollination mechanisms, and other characteristics to support a wide range of beneficial insects.

Enable a sustainable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach. Select plant species that attract beneficial insects and naturally control destructive pests.

Consider allelopathic & companion plants as a form of natural weed suppression and control of invasive species.

Include “protected areas” in design projects to allow nature to thrive without interference from humans or pets.

Research studies show a spontaneous return of endangered native plants and animals in undisturbed areas.

On a walk through any typical suburban neighborhood, there may only be a handful of standout landscapes—landscapes where plantings extend far beyond the house foundation and beds contain more plants than mulch. Color, texture, and form provide three, even four, seasons of interest.

•

While these landscapes look impressive and most certainly enhance the homeowners’ quality of life, they also tremendously benefit the local ecosystem. The diversity of plants in a landscape directly influences the diversity of insects and birds found in that area. Plant diversity creates resilient landscapes with better recovery from insect infestation and disease, requiring less pesticide use. It can also improve air quality and soil health. Densely planted, threedimensional garden beds provide animals important places to nest and hide.

How can green industry professionals incorporate these solutions in a typical suburban neighborhood with clients busy with children and careers? Research shows homeowners who prioritize low-cost, lowmaintenance, and tidy landscapes will have less diversity and a higher percentage of cultivated exotic species.

LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS TO BIODIVERSITY LOSS

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Fund recently released research on landscape architecture’s pivotal role in combatting biodiversity loss, a crisis which they say is on par with climate change.

ADDRESSING CHALLENGES

The desire for native plants is increasing, but some homeowners may be hesitant to add plants that will sustain wildlife in their yards. In my local Facebook gardening group, someone recently asked for recommendations on flowering plants that don’t attract bees. Homeowners don’t want to clean bird droppings from their patio furniture and decks. Butterflies are certainly well-received, but caterpillars, and pretty much any other insect, are frequently seen as pests.

A desire for a tidy and low-maintenance landscape often means limiting options to plants that won’t drop fruit, faded flowers, or seeds. Front yard plantings are often limited

by HOA requirements.

Backyard trends lean toward creating spaces for relaxation, which can mean minimalistic landscaping that looks less cluttered and visually stimulating. Gardens are relegated as “background” for other activities like grilling, swimming, or relaxing on a patio, and frame large swaths of lawn for children to play in.

Fortunately, green industry professionals can persuade reluctant homeowners. Why not use your blog, email newsletters, and social media to educate customers on best practices to support biodiversity, such as: • •

• • • •

Removing invasive species Limiting fall cleanup and delaying some spring cleanup (such as cutting back perennials) to provide shelter and food for overwintering wildlife Adding water features, bird baths, fountains, or small ponds Adding birdhouses and nesting boxes Learning to identify beneficial insects Promote adding diversity through container gardens of “Keystone Plants,” a term coined by Homegrown National Park that identifies the most productive native species that support the most wildlife.

Education and public awareness programs will help bridge the gap between consumer priorities and the solutions-based strategies recommended to tackle biodiversity loss. Promote your public projects, such as pollinator gardens and rain garden installations, and your use of native plants.

Encourage your clients and online audiences to visit botanical gardens and public parks where these strategies are beautifully put into action, where they can learn about the natural world and be inspired to create diverse gardens at home.

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OGIA 2024 MEMBER DIRECTORY Visit OGIA.org to search the full directory by location, services, and more.

COMPANY MEMBERS #

1st Impressions Landscape & Garden Center Sunbury, Ohio 9 Trees Landscape Construction Hilliard, Ohio

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A & J Lawn Care, Inc. Grove City, Ohio A & J Landscape Center Sylvania, Ohio A. Brown & Sons Nursery, Inc. Phillipsburg, Ohio A’s Lawn Service Medina, Ohio Abbruzzese Brothers, Inc. Hilliard, Ohio Acme Tree & Landscape, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio Acorn Farms Galena, Ohio Albyn’s Landscape & Nursery Center, Inc. Newark, Ohio All Season Landscape & Maintenance, Inc. Loveland, Ohio Allison Landscaping, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio Andy’s Garden, Inc. Piqua, Ohio Ansley & Associates Columbus, Ohio Arbor Doctor, LLC Cincinnati, Ohio Arbor Farms Nursery Fort Wayne, Indiana Arcola Creek Nursery Madison, Ohio Aristotle Design Group, Inc. Newbury, Ohio Arselli’s Landscape & Design Chillicothe, Ohio Art Form Nurseries Chagrin Falls, Ohio

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B & H Landscaping Strasburg, Ohio Bailey Nurseries, Inc. St. Paul, Minnesota Bailey’s Tree & Landscape, Inc. Sandusky,Ohio

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Barbeau Lawn and Landscape LLC Westerville, Ohio

Bzak Landscaping, Inc. Milford, Ohio

Barnes Nursery, Inc. Huron, Ohio

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Beardslee Nursery, LLC Perry, Ohio Beavercreek Landscape & Nursery Dayton, Ohio Beining Nursery & Landscaping, LLC Cloverdale, Ohio Benanzer Nursery, Inc. St. Henry, Ohio Benchmark Landscape Construction, Inc. Plain City, Ohio Berger Horticultural Products Columbus, Ohio

C. & C. Garden Design, Inc. Hinckley, Ohio C. M. Brown Nurseries, Inc. Perry, Ohio Cable Bros Outdoor Services Trotwood, Ohio Cahoon Nursery & Garden Center Westlake, Ohio Canton Road Garden Center, Inc. Akron, Ohio Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board Columbus, Ohio

Berns’ Greenhouse & Garden Center, Inc. Middletown, Ohio

Cardinal Landscape, Tree Service & Lawn Care Oregonia, Ohio

Best Landscaping Reno, Ohio

Carmar Gardens, Inc. Nevada, Ohio

Blooming Designs Norton, Ohio

Carroll Landscape & Nursery Monclova, Ohio

Blue Ring Residential Services Columbus, Ohio

Cassinelli’s Glendale Nurseries, Inc. Fairfield Twp, Ohio

Bluestone Perennials, Inc. Madison, Ohio

Casto-Anderson Landscaping, Inc. Sidney, Ohio

Bob Meyer Landscape Service Cincinnati, Ohio

Centerville Landscaping, Inc. Centerville, Ohio

Bobbie’s Green Thumb Shaker Heights, Ohio

Chagrin Valley Nurseries, Inc. Gates Mills, Ohio

Bowlings Nursery Simpsonville, Kentucky

Cianciolo Designscape, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio

Bremec Garden Centers & Bremec Group Chesterland, Ohio

Classico Landscapes, Inc. Louisville, Ohio

Brennan Lawn & Landscape LLC Avon, Ohio

Clean Cut Landscape & Lawn Bellbrook, Ohio

Briar Rose Nurseries Perry, Ohio

Columbus Hardscapes, LLC Baltimore, Ohio

Brockhage Landscape Company Cincinnati, Ohio

Columbus State Landscape Alumni Association Ashley, Ohio

Brotzman’s Nursery, Inc. Madison, Ohio Bry Pan, LLC Newark, Ohio Buck & Sons Landscape Service, Inc. Hilliard, Ohio

Columbus Turf Nursery, Ltd. Ashville, Ohio columbus-turf.com Combs Landscaping Westlake, Ohio

Buckeye Ecocare Miamisburg, Ohio

Cornwell Lawn & Landscaping, LLC Columbus, Ohio cornwelllawn.com

Burger Farm & Garden Center, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio

Corsaro Landscaping and Design Inc. Mayfield Heights, Ohio

Corso’s Flower & Garden Center Sandusky, Ohio

DLL Landscaping & Tree Service Columbus, Ohio

Five Seasons Landscape Management, Inc. Reynoldsburg, Ohio

Crawford Nursery, Inc. Bucyrus, Ohio

Down to Earth Landscaping Garfield Heights, Ohio

Floralandscape, Inc. Toledo, Ohio

Creative Waterscapes Hebron, Ohio

Dresden Landscaping, Ltd. Dresden, Ohio

Flores Landscaping & Nursery, Inc. Painesville, Ohio

Greenleaf Nursery Co. Park Hill, Oklahoma

Creech’s Lawn & Garden Center, Inc. Lebanon, Ohio

Druffel Design & Landscape Maineville, Ohio

Florimar, Inc. Georgetown, Ohio

GreenScapes Landscape Co. Columbus, Ohio

Custom Landscape Service Waynesburg, Ohio

Dumont Seed Co. Canton, Ohio

Follow the River Designs, LLC McConnelsville, Ohio

Greenspire Grounds Management, Inc. Hilliard, Ohio

Custom Touch Irrigation, Inc. Hilliard, Ohio

Durbin Landscaping, Inc. Cleves, Ohio

Franklin Park Conservatory Columbus, Ohio

Groovy Plants Ranch Marengo, Ohio

CustomTree Inc. Fairlawn, Ohio

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Fullmer’s Landscaping, Inc. Dayton, Ohio Fullmers.com

Grunder Landscaping Co. Miamisburg, Ohio

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Earth Works, Inc. Dayton, Ohio

D & D Landscaping Supply, LLC Portage, Ohio

Eason Horticultural Resources, Inc. Fort Wright, Kentucky

D & D Maintenance Medina, Ohio

Ebright Landscapes, Inc. Pickerington, Ohio

Dailey’s Lawn & Landscaping Dayton, Ohio

Eddybrook Tree Farm Johnstown, Ohio

Darwin Designs Plain City, Ohio

Enoch Farms Circleville, Ohio

Daves Landscaping Service LLC McConnelsville, Ohio

Envirocare Lawn & Landscape, LLC Perysburg, Ohio

Davey Tree Expert Co Wooster, Ohio

Environmental Enhancement, Inc. Westfield Center, Ohio

Davies’ Landscape & Lawn Care Cincinnati, Ohio

Environmental Management Services, Inc. Dublin, Ohio

Davis Tree Farm & Nursery, Inc. Valley City, Ohio

Envirotech Consultants, Inc. Somerset, Ohio

Dayton Nurseries, Inc. Barberton, Ohio

Envision Lawn and Landscape Sylvania, Ohio

Decker’s Nursery, Inc. Groveport, Ohio

Ernst Conservation Seeds, Inc. Meadville, Pennsylvania

DeHoff Flowers, Greenhouses & Landscaping Alliance, Ohio

Essential Landscaping & Irrigation Miamisburg, Ohio

Deitering Landscaping, Inc. Leipsic, Ohio Delventhal Landscaping & Nursery, Inc Waterville, Ohio Denny McKeown, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio

Estate Landscaping Service, LLC Columbus, Ohio Evans Landscaping, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio

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Galehouse Tree Farms Doylestown, Ohio Garden Of Eden Landscaping Services, LLC Richwood, Ohio edensproduce.com Gardens Alive Tipp City, Ohio Gardenscapes by Joanna LLC Oberlin, Ohio Gateway Gardens & Nursery Streetsboro, Ohio Gehret Nursery, Inc. Minster, Ohio Geiger Greenscapes Cincinnati, Ohio Glass-n-Greens East Palestine, Ohio Gold-N-Touch Landscaping, Inc. Dayton, Ohio GoodSeed Farm Landscapes Peebles, Ohio Gorman Landscape Contractors, LLC Spring Valley, Ohio Grasshuggers Columbus, Ohio Green Acres Excavating, Inc. Fairfield, Ohio

F&W Properties Columbus, Ohio

Green Legacy Orient, Ohio

Farrell’s Lawn & Garden Center Bryan, Ohio

Green Shades Garden Center Roseville, Ohio

Father & Son Property Maintenance, LLC Louisville, Ohio

Green Velvet Sod Farms Ltd. Bellbrook, Ohio

Dig-It Excavating & Landscaping Hubbard, Ohio

Fitzwater Tree & Lawn Care Greenville, Ohio

Greenbush Professional Services, LLC Camden, Ohio

Dill’s Greenhouse Groveport, Ohio

Five Rivers MetroParks Dayton, Ohio

Greenhouse Landscaping, Inc. Beavercreek, Ohio

Detillion Landscaping Co., Inc. Chillicothe, Ohio Diamond Cut Lawn & Landscaping Services, LLC Columbiana, Ohio

Greenlawn Farm LLC

Piketon, Ohio Greenleaf Landscapes, Inc. Marietta, Ohio

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Halter Lawn & Landscaping, Inc. New Lebanon, Ohio Hapner Lawn and Landscape LLC Eaton, Ohio Hartman Landscaping Zanesville, Ohio Hedge Landscape, LLC Columbus, Ohio Hemlock Landscapes, Inc. Chagrin Falls, Ohio Hickle Enterprises LLC dba Richard’s Tree Service North Ridgeville, Ohio Hidden Creek Landscaping, Inc. Hilliard, Ohio Hillcrest Lawn & Landscape LLC South Vienna, Ohio Hobby Nursery Loudonville, Ohio Holscher & Hackman Garden Center Cincinnati, Ohio Hoover Nursery & Landscaping, Inc. Maximo, Ohio Hornberger Landscape & Nursery, Inc. Pleasant Plain, Ohio Hubert’s Landscaping Company Inc. Avon Lake, Ohio Hunter Green Services, Inc. Aurora, Ohio Husney’s Landscape & Irrigation Columbia Station, Ohio Huss Nursery and Landscaping LLC Genoa, Ohio Hyde Park Landscaping, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio

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Ironsite, Inc. Galena, Ohio

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J. Barker Landscaping Company Bedford, Ohio J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co. Boring, Oregon J. R. Thomas Landscaping, Inc. Loveland, Ohio Jason Weigandt Landscape Co. Sidney, Ohio Jeffrey Allen Corporation Cincinnati, Ohio Joe’s Landscaping of Beavercreek, Inc. Fairborn, Ohio John B. Jacobs & Son Nurseries, Inc. Blanchester, Ohio John K. Leohner Co. Inc. Carroll, Ohio Johnny O’s Inc. Canton, Ohio JTS Landscaping Co. Seville, Ohio JTS Tree & Landscape LLC Westerville, Ohio

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K. & E. Design Management Montville, Ohio Kah Landscaping Botkins, Ohio Kate Wilson Design Worthington, Ohio Kendrick and O’Dell Landscaping Inc. Cold Spring, Kentucky Kevin Flory Landscape & Lawn Care, Inc. Greenville, Ohio Kevin McCoy Landscape, Ltd. Coshocton, Ohio KGK Gardening and Design Corp Hudson, Ohio Kibler Lumber Do-It Center Mt. Orab, Ohio Kile Landscaping Sabina, Ohio Kindig-Coudriet Nursery & Landscaping Inc. Seville, Ohio Kleinhenz Landscape Powell, Ohio Knollwood Florists, Inc. Beavercreek, Ohio Konen Landscaping Inc. Dayton, Ohio

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LaCava’s Landscape LLC Grand River, Ohio 12

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Lakeview Nurseries, Inc. Fairfield, Ohio Lamanna’s Lawn & Landscaping Kettering, Ohio LandCare Galena, Ohio Landfare Ltd. Columbus, Ohio Landform Svc, Inc. Fairfield, Ohio Landscape By Design New Lebanon, Ohio Landscapes and OuterSpaces, LLC Hillsboro, Ohio Landscapes by Terra, Inc. Marysville, Ohio Lanhan Contractors, Inc. South Euclid, Ohio Larry’s Landscaping North Canton, Ohio Lawn Lad, Inc. Gates Mills, Ohio Lawn Scapes, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio Leuty Nursery Novelty, Ohio Lifestyle Landscaping, Inc. North Ridgeville, Ohio Lilly Lawn and Landscape LLC Ravenna, Ohio Listerman & Associates, Inc. Beavercreek, Ohio Locke’s GoGreen Landscaping and Garden Center Oberlin, Ohio Lowenoak Landscape Development Findlay, Ohio Lowes Greenhouse & Gift Shop, Inc. Chagrin Falls, Ohio LTD Landscapes, Inc. Milford, Ohio Lubrecht’s Landscaping Cincinnati, Ohio Luck Landscaping Toledo, Ohio Luther Landscaping Ross, Ohio LWB Design, LLC Willoughby, Ohio Lyons’ Pro Lawn Care Bellefontaine, Ohio

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M Miller Services LLC Cleves, Ohio M. J. Design Associates, Inc. Plain City, Ohio Madison Lawn Care, Ltd. London, Ohio Madison Tree Care & Landscaping, Inc. Milford, Ohio Mark Webber’s Landscaping Company Liberty Twp, Ohio Masterscape LLC Shaker Hts, Ohio Mateva Gardens Cincinnati, Ohio Mathers Environmental Science Services, LLC Gahanna, Ohio Maumee Valley Growers Association Holland, Ohio Maxville Quarries Inc. Logan, Ohio McCullough’s Landscape & Nursery, LLC New Albany, Ohio McHenry Landscaping Novelty, Ohio Meadow Beauty Nursery Madison, Ohio Meadowood Enterprises, LLC Madison, Ohio Medina Turf Farms Inc. Seville, Ohio Metroscape Columbus, Ohio Meyer’s Garden Center & Landscaping, Inc. Fairfield, Ohio MGZ Lawn & Grounds Care Piqua, Ohio Michell’s King of Prussia, Pennsylvania Midwest Landscape Network, Inc. Harrison, Ohio Millcreek Gardens LLC Ostrander, Ohio Miller Landscapes of Westerville, LLC Westerville, Ohio Miller’s Country Gardens Delaware, Ohio MirrorScapes, LLC Lancaster, Ohio MJK Unlimited Inc. Chagrin Falls, Ohio Mohican Gardens Loudonville, Ohio

More Than Curb Appeal Clayton, Ohio Mowery Landscape & Design, LLC Westlake, Ohio Mox Nursery Delphos, Ohio Moyer’s Nursery & Landscaping Massillon, Ohio MTC Horticultural Services Oberlin, Ohio

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National Nursery Products, Inc. Crestwood, Kentucky Nature’s Own, LLC Springfield, Ohio Nelsons Seasonal Decor Zanesville, Ohio New Leaf Landscape Construction, Inc. Marysville, Ohio Nick’s Lawn Service Ltd. McCutchenvile, Ohio No Limits Landscaping, Inc. Maineville, Ohio North Branch Nursery, Inc. Pemberville, Ohio North Coast Perennials, Inc. Madison, Ohio North Creek Nurseries, Inc. Landenberg, Pennsylvania North Dayton Garden Center Dayton, Ohio Nursery Growers of Lake County Ohio, Inc. Perry, Ohio

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O-Heil Site Solutions Dayton, Ohio Oak Leaf Landscaping Danville, Ohio Oakland Nursery, Inc. Columbus, Ohio Oberlander’s Tree & Landscape, Ltd. Bucyrus, Ohio Ohio Green Works LLC Waynesville, Ohio Ohio Landscaping Corporation Caledonia, Ohio Ohio Nursery Exchange LLC New Carlisle, Ohio Outdoorscapes Landscaping Plain City, Ohio

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Pace-Sankar Landscaping New Philadelphia, Ohio Pacific Impressions, Inc. Mansfield, Ohio Palmer Energy Company Toledo, Ohio Pam’s Perennial Plant Farm Norton, Ohio Paragon Landscapes, LLC Ashland, Ohio Paramount Lawn Service, Inc. Loveland, Ohio Park’s Lawn Care LLC Caledonia, Ohio Perfection Landscape & Greenhouse, LLC New Washington, Ohio Perfection Lawns, Inc. Clayton, Ohio Perrino Landscape, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio Petitti Garden Centers Oakwood Village, Ohio Phelps Ohio Nursery Madison, Ohio Pinnacle Landscaping Columbus, Ohio Pleiman Landscaping LLC Maria Stein, Ohio Poleo Associates Ann Arbor, Michigan Pond Supplies of Ohio, Inc./Hoffman Tree & Land Svc Inc. Uniontown, Ohio Ponzani Landscape Co. St. Clairsville, Ohio Post Excavating and Landscaping LLC Fort Recovery, Ohio Premier Landscapes, LLC Hamilton, Ohio Pro-Cut Grafton, Ohio ProScape Lawn & Landscape Services, LLC PT2 Mowing and More LLZ Urbana, Ohio Purkey Landscaping Co. Waynesville, Ohio

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Quality Lawn, Landscape & Fence, Inc. Casstown, Ohio Quality Yard & Home Maintenance Pataskala, Ohio

R

R & J Farms, Inc. West Salem, Ohio Raley’s Pine Ridge Tree Farms Hinckley, Ohio Reichle Brothers Westerville, Ohio Reynolds Landscape Co. Belpre, Ohio Rhoads Garden Center & Landscaping Circleville, Ohio Rice’s Landscapes Redefined Canton, Ohio Rich O’Donnell Landscape, Inc. Warren, Ohio Richards’ Landscaping, Inc. New Washington, Ohio Riepenhoff Landscape, Ltd Hilliard, Ohio Rindler Landscape, LLC Kettering, Ohio Rine Landscape Group, Inc. Columbus, Ohio Ritenour Custom Lawn Care, Inc. Butler, Pennsylvania Rocky Fork Company New Albany, Ohio Rocky Gardens Landscape Group LLC Beloit, Ohio Roger Lake Trucking Inc. Sunman, Indiana Rohr’s Nursery, Inc. Canton, Ohio Royal Landscape Gardening, Inc. Garfield Heights, Ohio Runkel Landscape Associates, Inc. Lima, Ohio Ryan-Brothers’ Landscaping Columbus, Ohio

S

Schneider Landscaping Toledo, Ohio

OGIA 2024 MEMBER DIRECTORY

Scioto Gardens Westerville, Ohio Scott Biggs Consulting Columbus, Ohio Scott’s Garden Center, Inc. Powell, Ohio Seely’s Landscape Nursery Hilliard, Ohio Seiler’s Landscaping LLC Cincinnati, Ohio Sestili Nursery, Inc. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Sharon Nursery Maineville, Ohio Shearer Landscaping Inc. Lewis Center, Ohio Shelby Landscaping & Garden Center Sidney, Ohio Smith’s Camargo Landscape Amelia, Ohio Smith’s Gardens, Inc. Delaware, Ohio Spieles Nurseries Lima, Ohio Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum Cincinnati, Ohio Spring Lake Nursery Perry, Ohio Spring Meadow Nursery Inc. Grand Haven, Michigan Star Roses and Plants / Conard-Pyle West Grove, Pennsylvania Stefani Landscaping, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio Steinman Lawn & Landscape Westlake, Ohio Stepleton’s Outdoor Development Lima, Ohio

S & S Landscaping & Tree Service LLC Findlay, Ohio

Strader’s Garden Centers, Inc. Columbus, Ohio

S. & S. Farms, Ltd. Cardington, Ohio

Strausburg Nursery Xenia, Ohio

Sabo’s Woodside Nursery, Inc. Madison, Ohio

Stropkey Nurseries, Inc. Painesville, Ohio

Sal’s Landscaping & Construction Co. Brecksville, Ohio

Stutzman Lawn & Landscaping New Philadelphia, Ohio

Sandy’s Landscaping, Inc. North Canton, Ohio

Sugargrove Tree Farm, Inc. Ashland, Ohio

Schill Grounds Management North Ridgeville, Ohio

SummitView Landscape and Design, LLC Spencerville, Ohio

THE BUCKEYE | May/June 2024

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OGIA 2024 MEMBER DIRECTORY

Sunbeam Gardens, Inc. Avon, Ohio Sure Shot Landscaping LLC Fairfield, Ohio Surface Nursery, Inc. Gresham, OR Surroundings, Inc. Loveland, Ohio Sutherland’s Landscaping & Excavating, Inc. Pataskala, Ohio

T

T. R. Gear Landscaping, LLC Fairfield, Ohio T.D. Landscape, Inc. Fredericktown, Ohio Tall Oaks Lawn & Landscaping, LLC Hamilton, Ohio Taphorn Landscape Services Milford, Ohio Taylor Terrace Lawnscapes Norwich, Ohio The Cottage Gardens, Inc. Perry, Ohio The Dawes Arboretum Heath, Ohio The DiSanto Companies, Inc. Cleveland, Ohio The Employers’ Association Maumee, Ohio The Formal Garden LLC Columbus, Ohio The Garden Path Landscaping, LLC Hamilton, Ohio The Greatest Scape, Inc. Mt. Vernon, Ohio The Greenhouse Shoppe Wooster, Ohio

Those Guys Lawn and Landscape Port Clinton, Ohio Timber Run Gardens, LLC Zanesville, Ohio Timberwood Landscape Co. Inc. Dublin, Ohio Tinkerturf Lawn & Landscape, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio TMK Nursery, Inc. Atwater, Ohio

Warstler Bros. Landscaping, Inc. Canton, Ohio Welker Tree Farm, Inc. Columbus, Ohio Wengerlawn Nursery Co. Brookville, Ohio West Fairfield, Inc. Amanda, Ohio West Point Landscape & Design Co. Marysville, Ohio White Fir Landscaping Consulting

Tom Goodman & Associates LLC North Lewisburg, Ohio

White Oak Garden Center, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio

Tom Green Nursery Sales, LLC Louisville, Ohio

Wilde Nursery, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio

Tom’s Lawn Service Sidney, Ohio

Willo’dell Nursery, Inc. Ashland, Ohio

Top Notch Landscaping & Supply Wheeling, West Virginia

Willoway Nurseries, Inc. Avon, Ohio

Tree Tyme Nursery, Inc. Austinburg, Ohio

Wilson Garden Center, Inc. Hamilton, Ohio

Tri-State Nurseries Ironton, Ohio

Wilson Landscape Associates Columbus, Ohio

Trinity Gardens, Ltd. Parma, Ohio

Wilson’s Garden Center Newark, Ohio

Turner Landscaping, LLC Saint Paris, Ohio

Wimberg Landscaping Milford, Ohio

U

Winchester Landscape Gardens, Inc. Groveport, Ohio

Ultra-Turf, Inc. Hamilton, Ohio Union III Outdoor Living Marysville, Ohio

V

Varga’s Greenhouse & Assoc., Inc. Bay Village, Ohio

WinnScapes, Inc. Columbus, Ohio Witte Landscape Specialists, Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio Worthington Landscape Co. Inc. Plain City, Ohio Wright’s Tree Service, LLC Columbus, Ohio

Vicki and Company, LLC Louisville, Ohio

The Lady Bug Garden Center Massillon, Ohio

Village Green Floral and Garden Center Wapakoneta, Ohio

The Nicolaus Company, LLC Batavia, Ohio

Village Landscaping, Inc. Kirtland, Ohio

Yard Smart, Inc. Grafton, Ohio

The Pattie Group, Inc. Novelty, Ohio The Plant People, Inc. Orient, Ohio

Vizmeg Landscape, Inc. Stow, Ohio

Yard Solutions Groveport, Ohio

The Seed Center Ostrander, Ohio

W

W. A. Natorp Corp.

Mason, Ohio

Yellowstone Landscape Reynoldsburg, Ohio

The Site Group, Inc. New Carlisle, Ohio | ogia.org

Thomson’s Landscaping Marietta, Ohio

Wade Gardens Landscaping & Gift Shop Mansfield, Ohio

The Keller Group Limited Columbus, Ohio

The Siebenthaler Co. Beavercreek, Ohio

14

TheDon Landscaping Cincinnati,Ohio

Wade & Gatton Nursery & Landscape LLC Bellville, Ohio

Y

Yard Barbers, Inc. Columbus, Ohio

Your Way Landscaping LLC Marietta, Ohio

Z

Zupcsan’s Nursery Madison, Ohio

ALLIED COMPANY MEMBERS A

A. M. Leonard, Inc. Piqua, Ohio Advanced Turf Solutions Fishers, Indiana American Safety & Health Management Consultants, Inc. North Canton, Ohio

B

Bobcat Enterprises, Inc. Hilliard, Ohio Boulders Direct Canton, Ohio

K

Kurtz Bros., Inc. Westerville, Ohio Kurtz Bros. Inc. Independence, Ohio

M

Mulch Makers of Ohio, Inc. Norton, Ohio

O

Oberfields LLC Delaware, Ohio

C

Central Ohio Bag & Burlap Columbus, Ohio

E

Evergreen Seed Supply, LLC Lambertville, Michigan

F

Fleetcor Atlanta, Georgia

H

Hortica, a brand of the Sentry Insurance Group Edwardsville, Illinois

Harrell’s LLC Lakeland, Florida

Ohio CAT Broadview Hghts, Ohio OPEI Alexandria, Virginia

P

P. V. P. Industries, Inc. North Bloomfield, Ohio

R

U

Rush Truck Centers Columbus, Ohio

United Label & Sales Co. Cleveland, Ohio

Reading Rock Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio

Unilock Ohio, Inc. Rittman, North Carolina

S

UpShoot LLC Fairport Harbor, Ohio

Sedgwick Dublin, Ohio Sintsirmas & Mueller Co. LPA Twinsburg, Ohio SiteOne Landscape Supply Plain City, Ohio Spectrum Analytic, Inc. Washington CH, Ohio

W

Wellmaster Tillsonburg, Ontario Wolf Creek Company Columbus, Ohio

Syngenta Powell, Ohio

T

T. H. Blue, Inc. Eagle Springs, North Carolina TAH Benefits Westerville, Ohio

Pacific Mulch, Inc. Henderson, North Carolina Phillips Land Improvement Center Beavercreek, Ohio

We make our own deliveries.

We have 40,000 trees & shrubs in the ground.

Welcome to our Farm & Nursery.

502.722.5516

2814 Todd’s Point Road | Simpsonville, KY 40067

Pruning trees by hand.

Trimming boxwoods by hand.

THE BUCKEYE | May/June 2024

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15

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INDUSTRY EXPERT GUIDE Anne Obarski, a seasoned expert in customer service, emphasizes the critical importance of making positive impressions with every customer in today’s world, drawing from over 30 years of experience across various roles including as a past sportswear buyer and now as founder of Merchandise Concepts. Through her extensive research, including mystery shopping over 2000 stores nationwide, Anne has developed a laser focus on real-time customer service experiences, leading to the authorship of five books and recognition as a Top Retail Expert in 2024.

OGIA.ORG/BUSTOURS 16

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Restoring the Native Landscape

HEY THERE OGIA MEMBERS!

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G O V E R N M E N T A F FA I R S U P D AT E A New Fight To Be The Next Speaker Of The Ohio House Of Representatives Speaker when the official vote was held.

TONY SEEGERS

1803 Consulting, LLC tony@1803consulting.com Tony is the governmental affairs liaison for OhioPLANT, of which OGIA is a member. OhioPLANT is a coalition of pesticide, landscape, agriculture, nursery and turf professionals. For more information, visit OhioPLANT.com

Note: this is not a commentary or opinion on either political party, President Huffman or Speaker Stephens.

WITH THE PRIMARIES OVER, the General Assembly is getting back into the swing of things before they break for the summer campaign season and the election in November. Besides the typical sparring between incumbents and candidates that will play out in our mailboxes and tv screens, there is another fight looming, and that is for the Speaker’s gavel when the new General Assembly starts in January.

However, before we get to the coming competition to be the next Speaker, lets recap the heated contest that started at the beginning of this General Assembly in January of last year. Below is an excerpt from my article on the subject at the time: The candidates in the House for Speaker whittled down to three, Rep. Phil Plummer (R-Dayton), Rep. Jason Stephens (R-Kitts Hill), and Rep. Derek Merrin (R-Monclova Twp.).

The members of the Republican caucus met in December to informally vote for who would control the Speaker’s gavel and after a lengthy meeting, Rep. Merrin was elected. The formal vote would take place on January 3 after the members of the 135th General Assembly were sworn in. However, between those two dates, Rep. Stephens and his supporters made a push to be elected 18

| ogia.org

On January 3, after the House members were sworn in, Rep. Stephens and Rep. Merrin were nominated to be Speaker. Rep. Stephens was elected with 54 votes, 22 Republicans from his caucus and the 32 Democrat Representatives.

The remaining 43 Republicans voted with Rep. Merrin. This has split the Republican caucus into two factions, one siding with Speaker Stephens and the other supporting Rep. Merrin.

Since that vote, there has been acrimony and even a lawsuit by the Merrin camp asking the court to prohibit Speaker Stephens from using the caucus campaign money, alleging an agreement on sharing the campaign funds had been broken by the Speaker’s allies. Now, a new front on this fight has opened. Ohio Senate President Matt Huffman is currently eyeing the speakership of the Ohio House of Representatives, signaling a potential power struggle within the caucus.

President Huffman, whose Senate term ends this year, has been openly critical of the current Speaker Jason Stephens, suggesting to reporters that the Speaker has not done an adequate job leading the chamber.

President Huffman has stated that Stephens’ election as Speaker in 2023, with support from Democrats, makes it “difficult to say ‘I’m also the leader of the Republican caucus.’” He has also criticized Speaker Stephens for not holding enough legislative sessions.

A longtime legislator from Lima, President Huffman has served in the Ohio Senate since 2020 and previously spent eight years in the House, including as Speaker Pro Tempore.

Speaker Stephens has dismissed President Huffman’s criticisms, stating the Senate President should “pay attention to running

the Senate, instead of trying to run the House.” The brewing battle sets the stage after the November 2024 general election for a contentious speakership vote when the new members are sworn in in January and vote for their next chamber leader.

While the outcome remains uncertain, the potential clash between Senate President Huffman and Speaker Stephens highlights the divisions within the Ohio Republican controlled House and could have significant implications for the state’s legislative agenda when the new session convenes in January.

Editor’s note: At the time of writing this article just as I was about to hit send to OGIA, I received a news alert that Speaker Stephens had removed six committee chairs from their chair positions and the committees they presided over, including Rep. Rodney Creech as chair and as a member of the House Agriculture Committee. All six committee chairs had supported Rep. Merrin in January of last year to be the Speaker.

UPDATE ON PESTICIDE PREEMPTION

As you may recall, OGIA, through its membership in OhioPLANT (Coalition of Pesticide, Landscape, Agriculture, Nursery, and Turf professionals), scored a legislative victory at the end of 2022 with the inclusion of OhioPLANT’s pesticide preemption language in HB 507, that was passed at the end of the General Assembly.

The language preempts local governments from banning or regulating pesticides on private property. These are pesticides that must be registered with the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

Unfortunately, the City of Columbus filed suit in Franklin County Common Pleas Court in March claiming in an eightcount complaint that our language is an unconstitutional violation of Columbus home rule authority.

The Attorney General’s office has filed an answer in the case denying the claims by the city.

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THE BUCKEYE | May/June 2024

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NATIVE PLANTS TO TRY IN 2024

BY ALANA SETTLE

PHOTO VIA OHIONATIVEPLANTS.COM

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ACCORDING TO University of Delaware entomologist Doug Tallamy, author of “Bringing Nature Home” and “Nature’s Best Hope,” native plants far outweigh non-native species in supporting wildlife, particularly insect populations.

It’s common knowledge that bees and butterflies are important pollinators, but native insect populations are the backbone of biodiverse ecosystems. Nearly all our backyard songbirds feed insects, not seeds or berries, to their hatchlings. Tallamy says a pair of chickadees will feed one nest of hatchlings 300 caterpillars per day for the first 16 days of their lives.

Non-native plant species simply cannot sustain insect populations to this level, as insects are highly specialized eaters.

Tallamy’s research shows that native oak trees can support more than 500 species of caterpillars, while non-native trees can host just one or two species or even none.

diversity. This large flowering tree is not related to poplars but is part of the magnolia family. According to the National Wildlife Federation’s native plant database, the tulip tree serves as a caterpillar host plant for 18 species of butterflies and moths, including beautiful swallowtails. The tuliplike flowers also serve as a food source for bees, hummingbirds, and occasionally Baltimore orioles.

This fast-growing tree can reach 20’ tall in 10 years. However, it needs ample space, as it can grow to 60-75’ tall (or more) and 50’ wide. Tulip trees have brittle wood that can be damaged in wind and ice storms. While these trees may not be suitable for smaller backyards, they are beautiful in the right setting with their distinctive large leaves and yellow and orange flowers.

An easy answer to supporting wildlife and creating diverse ecosystems is to plant native species. Luckily, according to the organizers of Ohio Native Plant Month, there are nearly 2,000 native plants in Ohio to choose from. The nonprofit organization recently released its 2024 Plants of Distinction, highlighting a few of the greatest natives available to gardeners that may be underutilized in home landscapes.

HONEYSUCKLE VINE (LONICERA SEMPERVIRENS)

PHOTO VIA OAKLAND NURSERIES

Common winterberry is a deciduous holly known for its showy red fruit that covers its branches in fall and winter. Winterberries are dioecious (separate male and female plants). It’s recommended to plant one male with a grouping of female plants to ensure pollination and fruit production.

This slow-growing shrub grows best in wet, acidic soil but can tolerate various conditions. The berries are popular with birds in winter.

TULIP POPLAR (LIRIODENDRON TULIPIFERA)

Oaks and maples may be at the top of your mind when thinking about natives, but the tulip poplar (also called a tulip tree) is also worthy of attention when considering

WOOD POPPY (STYLOPHORUM DIPHYLLUM)

Also called celandine poppy, this spring wildflower thrives in shady and wet areas and is deer- and rabbit-tolerant. It is a suitable perennial for a naturalized area, dark corner of the landscape, or a rain garden where it can self-seed freely. Bright yellow, four-petaled flowers bloom in clusters on stems 12-18” tall from March to May. It can be confused with the invasive greater celandine (Chelidonium majus).

PHOTO VIA SCIOTO GARDENS

WINTERBERRY HOLLY (ILEX VERTICILLATA)

PHOTO VIA OAKLAND NURSERIES

PHOTO VIA OHIO DNR

Native plant researchers are studying whether cultivars of native species (sometimes called nativars) provide the same nutritional value for birds and insects.

They suggest selecting cultivars with berries close to the same size and color as the straight species if your goal is to support local wildlife.

Also called trumpet or coral honeysuckle, this vining native species is not overly aggressive, like the invasive bush honeysuckles Amur, Morrow, and Tatarian, and is an alternative to the non-native Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera Japonica).

It does not have fragrant flowers like its controversial counterparts. However, its vibrant orange blooms are loved by hummingbirds. In full sun, it can grow 15’ long along a trellis or arbor. It serves as a host plant for the native snowberry clearwing moth.

The plants we choose in our landscapes influence the success of wildlife. If you’re considering how to get started, check out Doug Tallamy’s work, connect with local growers and advocates of native plants, and support Ohio Native Plant Month initiatives.

THE BUCKEYE | May/June 2024

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H R F E AT U R E Emotional Stability

BY ANDY SPRENGER Training Specialist

The Employers Association is an OGIA service provider offering FREE HR assistance and more.

Check it out and learn more about this benefit of your OGIA membership at ogia.org/serviceproviders.

WHAT DOES SUSTAINABILITY MEAN? An overall • definition could be the “quality of being able to continue over a period of time.” According to a post

by ENEL on June 15th, 2023, an author labeled four pillars of sustainability: Environmental, Social, Economic (or Governance), and Ethical. I am going to propose that there is a fifth pillar, Emotional Sustainability (E.S.).

Acknowledge the circumstance and label the emotion. The goal is not to rid yourself of stress completely. That is not realistic. What is more realistic is that when stress occurs acknowledge “it,” and understand how you initially feel about “it.” By doing so, you will be more in control of your emotional state of mind.

What does Emotional Sustainability mean? Using • the basic definition labeled above, emotional sustainability could be the ability to manage one’s emotional state of mind over a continued period of time. A factor of emotional sustainability is stress management. At The Employers’ Association (EA) we teach a course called, “Emotional Intelligence.”

One of the first steps to gaining emotional • intelligence is to understand yourself. This includes understanding what causes stress for you in different circumstances. The ability to be aware of your own emotional gas tank is vital to avoid the destructive levels of stress and burnout.

Be aware of your Refraction (or Reflection) Period. The Refraction Period is how long you personally hold on to the stress, or how long you reflect on the stress. The faster you can move past “it,” the healthier your emotional state of mind will be.

The following are some methods to help reduce your stress:

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•

Identify the stressors in your life and rank them. Personally, and professionally, there are many stressors that can occur. These stressors are different for everyone. It is not a matter of if they are going to be triggered, but a matter of when they are going to be triggered.

By identifying them you can game plan on how you are going to respond to that stressor in the future.

•

Be aware of your “self-talk.” When stress happens, what do you say to yourself ? If your “self-talk” or belief is more negative, then your perspective on the matter will be more negative.

If your “self-talk” or belief is more positive, then your perspective on the matter will be more positive.

Take a Break. The duration of the break varies depending on the circumstance. It takes consistent action and time to be able to create positive gains. When a task causes too much stress, forcing your will on the matter may cause more stress and drain your energy for other projects that are on your list. Taking a break and coming back to the task may help you achieve the goal without draining your energy.

Emotional Sustainability will affect your ability to perform and make decisions. Again, it’s not about eliminating all stress in your life. That would most likely be impossible. It is about identifying your stressors and realizing that you can control how it affects you. It will take time and purposeful attention, but your ability to sustain a positive, emotional state of mind; emotional sustainability, will be worth the effort.

OGIA EVENT CALENDAR Check back for more updates and events coming soon! Visit ogia.org/events for more information.

June 3

Mt. Airy Arboretum Diagnostic Walkabout Cincinnati, Ohio

June 20

Garden Center Webinar Part 1 Online

June 21

Garden Center Webinar Part 2 Online

June 26

Garden Center Bus Tour Columbus, Ohio

July 8

Smale Riverfront Park Diagnostic Walkabout Cincinnati, Ohio

July 11

Kendal at Oberlin Diagnostic Walkabout Oberlin, Ohio

July 18

Inniswood Metro Gardens Diagnostic Walkabout Westerville, Ohio

July 18 & 19

OSHA 10 Training & Red Cross Certification Columbus, Ohio

August 5

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Diagnostic Walkabout Cincinnati, Ohio

August 8

Summit Metro Park Diagnostic Walkabout Akron, Ohio

September 9

Boone County Arboretum Diagnostic Walkabout Burlington, Kentucky

September 26

Sunset Memorial Park Diagnostic Walkabout North Olmstead, Ohio

October 10

ADVERTISER INDEX

Briar Rose Nurseries, Inc.

7

Bowling Nursery

15

Davis Tree Farm & Nursery, Inc.

19

Evergreen Seed Supply, LLC

17

Ernst Conservation Seeds, Inc.

17

Spring Meadow Nursery, Inc.

5

Ohio High School Landscape Olympics Wooster, Ohio

A D R AT E S & I N F O Contact Sara Cantees sara@ogia.org

THE BUCKEYE | May/June 2024

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Ohio Green Industry Association P.O. Box 518 Dublin, Ohio 43017-9998 Address Service Requested

LANDSCAPE PLANTS FOR OHIO Updated for 2024!

An 80 page printed publication including, evergreens, ferns, grasses, perennials, shrubs, and trees.

These make fantastic gifts or valuable items for resale to clients, providing a wealth of knowledge on plant identification, optimal growing conditions, planting tips, and more!

To order yours, visit ogia.org/LandscapePlantsOhio 24

| ogia.org

Your Guide to the Best Plants for Ohio