ALCA May/June 2024

The ALCA INFLUENCE

May/June

WHY OUR ‘SONORAN EMERALD’ OUTSHINES THE ‘DESERT MUSEUM.’

ARIZONA’S SIGNATURE TREE

The Parkinsonia or Cercidium is commonly known as the ‘Palo Verde’. The most popular hybrid is the ‘Desert Museum.’ Since there has been no authentication in its hybridization, every nursery makes their own hybrid. Unfortunately, that means you don’t really know what you’re getting with ‘Desert Museum.’ Inconsistency abounds.

WE MADE A SUPERIOR TREE

Presenting our exclusive ‘Sonoran Emerald’ hybrid. Crafted in our Innovation Lab. Field-tested. Embraced by discerning landscapers.

DESERT MUSEUM VS SONORAN EMERALD

Retaining all the beauty, without the drawbacks. Bid farewell to undesirable features of the Desert Museum: scarring, droppings, and limb breakage. Envision a lush tree with radiant green bark, virtually indestructible in strong Arizona winds – the “Sonoran Emerald.”

INNOVATION FROM THE GROUND UP

Our breakthrough: grafting exclusively on ‘Parkinsonia X parkinsonia’ rootstock. A more time-consuming and costly process, but one that ensures consistency.

STRONG TREES. HAPPY CLIENTS.

Picture a world without noisy clean-ups, costly replacements, or client embarrassment. You’re not just planting a tree; you’re cultivating trust.

CONTACT OUR SALES EXPERTS

Large trees in stock, ready for planting. Choose from 25-gallon pots or 36” wooden crates. Two locations to serve you. Phoenix: 623-581-3100 or Cave Creek: 480-488-1968

The ALCA INFLUENCE

Now part of the Site One team, Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock Is your one stop shop for all your landscape needs. We are a hauling company with a fully stocked retail yard and a proud distributor for Belgard, Southwest Sod, Evergreen Turf, Phoenix Paver, and AZ Best Block. We carry over fifty colors of landscape rock, river products, soil mixes, rip rap and boulders. Our knowledgeable sales staff will insure that your order is accurate and our experienced drivers will get your materials to you on time. Our certified scale ensures that you are receiving the correct amount of material ordered. Call or come by today.

Monday-Friday 6A-5P Saturday 7A -3P 7540 N 67th Ave, Bldg. A Glendale, AZ 85301 Office 602-353-1020 Fax 602-353-1027

President

Vice

Executive

core of non-profit organizations, there exists a driving force that propels their missions forward – a force that holds immeasurable value and cannot be replaced: volunteers. Volunteering for a non-profit is not just an act of kindness; it’s a transformative journey that benefits both the volunteer and the community at large. Let’s explore the profound significance of volunteering for non-profit organizations.

Enhancing Influence

Volunteers play a crucial role, magnifying the organization’s impact by contributing their time, expertise, and enthusiasm. Whether through hands-on assistance, fundraising endeavors, or strategic guidance, volunteers expand the reach and effectiveness of non-profits, aiding them in accomplishing their objectives more efficiently.

Fostering Connected Communities

Volunteering acts as the binding force that unites individuals with shared interests and aspirations to effect change. By collaborating towards a common goal, communities and sectors grow stronger and more resilient, fostering a sense of unity and purpose.

Personal Advancement and Growth

In addition to its societal benefits, volunteering offers substantial personal growth opportunities. It enables individuals to acquire new skills, gain valuable experiences, and broaden their social circle. Through volunteering, individuals find fulfillment, nurture personal development, and enhance their overall well-being.

Motivating Action in Others

The act of volunteering creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to step forward and become catalysts for change. Observing the positive outcomes of volunteerism motivates individuals to engage and make a positive impact in their own communities.

In summary, the role of volunteering in non-profit organizations is paramount. It serves as the life force that sustains their missions. By volunteering, individuals not only contribute to the greater good but also experience personal growth, establish meaningful connections, and motivate others.

ALCA is proud to have a dedicated team of individuals who generously volunteer their time and expertise to educate and inspire our community

of landscaping professionals. They share their wealth of knowledge with zeal and dedication, demonstrating their selflessness and commitment to creating a positive impact in the lives of others. To further shape and enrich the future of the landscaping industry, we are actively seeking to expand our volunteer network. We welcome you to join our community of volunteers today by visiting us at: https://www.azlca.com/volunteerinstructors.

Warmest regards,

Nickie Velten 2024 ALCA President

Nickie Velten 2024 ALCA President

Embracing Transformation: Understanding the Impact of Change

CChangeis the heartbeat of life, propelling us forward and fostering growth. Whether in the grand movements of the cosmos or the intricate workings of our minds, change is a constant force, shaping our journeys and steering our fates. Across all scales, from the smallest to the largest, change influences us, urging us to adapt, evolve, and transcend.

Despite its pervasiveness, change often clashes with the human psyche. We cling to the familiar, seeking solace in routine and the security of the known. The concept of change can trigger feelings of fear, doubt, and resistance, leading us to retreat to the safety of what is comfortable. However, within the realm of change lies a profound truth: our responses to circumstances define us more than the circumstances themselves.

At its core, change is a catalyst for creativity, a canvas on which we paint the narrative of our lives. It serves as the tool that shapes our essence, the crucible that fortifies our resilience, and the forge that refines our spirit. In each moment of change, we are presented with a choice—to embrace the unfamiliar with courage and curiosity or to shrink back into the familiarity of the known.

We were faced with this same challenge at ALCA, either we stayed stagnant and comfortable, or we dared to make changes and pave a new way for our association. From the systems to the day-to-day operations, ALCA had been in a state of stagnancy.

It’s in our nature to fall into routines because changes often bring uncertainty. However, we understand that without significant change, there can be no transformation. This was my vision upon taking on the role of Executive Director: drive significant change and transform ALCA into an authority within the Green Industry.

Linda Turnage Executive Director

The value of our association is clear, and we have a vision for the future. This vision includes more efficient operations and even better offerings for our members, volunteers, learners, and staff. We also aim to have more representation within the community by collaborating with other groups, departments, and associations to help shape the future of landscaping.

Our main goal, however, is to build lasting relationships. Whether it be vendors, members, learners, or other associations, we understand that the key to a strong and successful association is the relationship between all parties.

The future looks bright with the new systems and protocols soon to be implemented, which will allow us the time to step away from purely operational functions and into the more nuanced and dynamic aspects of our roles. Upon laying a strong foundation for this organization, we will then set our sights on building strong relationships with the people and groups we serve. We believe that by doing so, we will usher in a new era of impact and renewed purpose for ALCA.

Warmest regards,

Linda Turnage

ALCA Executive Director

Cut Costs and Time Without Cutting Hardscape

Designed for Hunter ICC2 and HCC Controllers, the innovative Wireless Valve Link lets you connect valves without running wire or cutting into hardscape. When complex landscapes pose a challenge, go wireless!

ALCA’s Annual Trade Show

Thank You Exhibitors

All Season Wholesale Growers

Arid Solutions Nursery

Arizona CLA

Arizona Olives & Ornamentals

Belgard/Superlite Block an Old Castle Company

Courtesy Fleet

Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock

Desert Tree Farm

ET Water

Evergreen Turf

Ewing Outdoor Supply

Federated Insurance

GPS & Track

Hillspring Financial

Horizon Distributors

Hunter Industries/FX Luminaire

J. Galt

Latitude Retirement

OnSite OilChange Plus

Rain Bird

Shade Plus

SiteOne Landscape Supply

Stotz Equipment

The Synthetic Grass Store

The Tendit Group

Target Specialty Products

Thrive Smart Systems

Unique Lighting Systems

V & P Nurseries

Verde Valley Turf

Watertronics

Weinberger Waste Disposal

West Coast Turf

The Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association Annual Trade Show occurs annually. It serves as an excellent platform for individuals in the landscaping and green industry to unite, display their expertise and products, and connect with industry peers.

This year’s event was held on April 12th at a brand-new venue, Venue8600, in Scottsdale and it attracted attendees from all over, both in and out of state. The show featured a wide range of exhibitors, including local nurseries, landscape and irrigation product manufacturers, financial groups, and other industry professionals. Through the many exhibits, attendees learned about the latest industry trends, products, and technologies that will help them reach the next level in their business.

In addition to the exhibits, the event also included a Sustainable Landscape Management educational opportunity. Our field expert, along with our Education Coordinator, Frances Craik, organized a Sustainable Landscape Management class, in which attendees were able to learn the ins and outs of this important practice. These one-on-one conversations with experts in the field helped other industry professionals gain valuable insights that they can apply to their own work.

The event brought together professionals from all aspects of the industry, creating an unmatched opportunity to meet new people and make valuable connections. Attendees exchanged ideas, shared best practices, and built relationships that can help them succeed in the competitive Green Industry.

Overall, the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association Annual Trade Show is an event that should not be missed by anyone in the landscaping industry. Whether you are a landscape contractor, a nursery owner, or simply someone who loves gardening, this event offers something for everyone and we encourage you to attend next year.

Brian Weiler Design and Drafting LLC

Brian Weiler Mesa, AZ 85210

brianweiler@hotmail.com

Brian has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Landscape Architecture from Arizona State University. He focuses on residential landscape design and drafting, pool design and permitting, and 3D modeling and rendering. Architect/Designer

Iron Mountain Landscapes LLC

Abraham Venzor Hernandez 1414 E. Diamond St. Phoenix, AZ 85006

abraham@ironmountainirrigation.com ironmountainirrigation.com

Irrigation and landscape lighting specialist, residence service, and design. Contractor Class 2

Perrydise Landscape & Design

James Perry

298 Circulo Bellagio Rio Rico, AZ 85684 james.perry2@cox.net perrydisellc.com

We are a Hardscape/Landscape company based out of Rio Rico, AZ in Southern Arizona. Our specialty is hardscape but perform most landscape services.

Contractor Class 2

Winfield Community Association

Howard Hurd II 7965 E Soaring Eagle Way Scottsdale, AZ 85266

hhurd44@gmail.com Affiliate

Plant

Pruning Schedule –Publication for Sale

ALCA continually updates and makes improvements to their educational programs. Improper tree and shrub pruning is one of the most difficult challenges to educate not only our industry but the public at large.

ALCA has created a publication, “Plant Pruning Schedule – The First 100”, a guide for proper pruning of 100 common plants found in the Desert Southwest.

Pruning is the intentional removal of plant parts. Pruning should only be done when necessary and at the right time of year using the natural growth form of the plant as the goal. Along with photos, each page in the publication will include the bloom period, pruning time, proper pruning techniques and helpful tips for trees, palms, groundcovers, vines, shrubs, flowering perennials, cacti, non-cacti succulents and grasses. Copies are available for sale for $25/each plus shipping and handling. Call ALCA at (602) 626-7091 to order yours today!

Education Updates

Spring is a time of abundance, action, and lots of growth! We are having an incredible spring at ALCA with full ACLP classes, development of new workshops, and exciting updates to our education process. ACLP class participation is the highest it has ever been! 25 new landscape professionals became ALCA Certified Irrigation Technicians (ACIT), 63 people became Sustainable Landscape Management (SLM) certified, and 52 landscape professionals became certified in 2-Wire Competencies. Our Tucson community is growing stronger with new volunteer educators being onboarded to teach and share their expertise. We are also implementing a new Learning Management System (LMS) which will streamline the registration process and provide a sophisticated interface for receiving resources and taking ALCA’s classes. Please continue to show up for our programs and provide your feedback in our mission to educate landscape contractors and elevate the green industry!

Calendar of Events

Arizona Turf Masters - Member Mixer

The ALCA March Phoenix Member Mixer, sponsored by Arizona Turf Masters, was a vibrant gathering of industry professionals eager to connect and collaborate. Attendees wasted no time diving into networking conversations, exchanging business cards, and sharing insights. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as connections were made and relationships fostered.

Prizes added an extra layer of excitement to the mixer, with lucky attendees walking away with cash prizes and exciting gift baskets. These prizes not only rewarded participation but also served as conversation starters, further enhancing the networking experience.

Overall, the member mixer was a resounding success, providing a platform for professionals to

Vermeer Mountain West - Member Mixer

Despite a smaller turnout, ALCA’s Tucson April Member Mixer, sponsored by Vermeer Mountain West, proved to be an intimate and invaluable networking opportunity for all involved. With a more intimate setting, attendees had the chance to engage in deeper conversations, forging stronger connections and fostering genuine relationships within the community.

The smaller attendance facilitated more meaningful interactions, allowing members to exchange ideas, experiences, and contacts in a relaxed and welcoming environment. From one-on-one discussions to small group conversations, everyone had the chance to be heard and to connect on a personal level. This event was held at Proof Artisanal Pizza & Pasta.

2023 Excellence in Landscaping Awards

Sponsored by:

Rancho Resort Homeowners Association, Commercial Maintenance Under$100,000, Award of Distinction

Sunflower Community Association, Residential Installation $100,000 - $300,000, Award of Excellence

Villas at Copperwynd, Commercial Maintenance Under$100,000, Award of Excellence

Adero Canyon, Residential Installation $100,000 - $300,000, Award of Distinction

2023 Excellence in Landscaping Awards

Custom Desert Landscape LLC

2023 Excellence in Landscaping Awards

Pascale Land Design

Sponsored by:

Sponsored by:

Vi at Silverstone, Commercial Maintenance

$300,000 - $1 Million, Award of Excellence

The Original Ranch House, Residential Installation $100,000 - $200,000, Award of Excellence

Paradise Valley Modern French Residence, Residential Installation $200,000 - $100,000, Award of Excellence

2023 Excellence in Landscaping Awards

Lavender Landscape Design Co.

Belgarde Residence, Residential Installation

$100,000 - $200,000, Award of Excellence

Sponsored by:

Timpani Residence, Residential Installation

$200,000 - $300,000, Award of Excellence

Farris Residence, Residential Installation

$300,000 - $500,000, Award of Excellence

Warren Residence, Residential Installation

$500,000 - $1 Million, Award of Excellence

2023 Excellence in Landscaping Awards

DLC Resources

The Meadows, Residential Maintenance

$500,000 - $1 Million, Award of Excellence

Sponsored by:

Superstition Mountain, Residential Maintenance

$500,000 - $1 Million, Award of Distinction

Tuscano, Residential Maintenance

$500,000 - $1 Million, Award of Distinction

Unlimited, Inc.

Sponsored by:

2023 Excellence in Landscaping Award Sponsors

Arid Solutions

Curlett Residence, Residential Installation $50,000 - $100,000, Judges Award Young Residence, Residential Installation $200,000 - $300,000, Judges Award Private Residence, Residential Installation Over - $250,000, Award of Excellence

Arid Solutions, LLC, has been in business in Phoenix, Arizona since 1984, as a wholesale nursery operating on 30 acres. We carry approximately 200 different plant species including groundcovers, trees, cacti, agave, shrubs, and accents. Our selection is predominantly drought-tolerant, desert-adapted plants native to the Southwestern United States, Mexico, Australia, South America, and South Africa. (602) 437-5194 www.aridsolutionsnursery.com

Compass Creative

Branding and marketing agency specializing in helping business owners in the landscape profession grow their businesses. (289) 656-1444 www.compasscreative.ca

Courtesy Fleet/Commercial

Courtesy Fleet/Commercial is a full-service Chevrolet, Isuzu dealership that also provides Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Nissan and Volvo vehicles. (602) 604-3040 www.courtesyfleet.com

Evergreen Turf, Inc

Evergreen Turf has become the major sod provider not just for homeowners, and landscapers, but for Arizona’s demanding golf courses and sports facilities.

480-456-1199 www.evergreenturf.com

LeBaron and Carroll, LLC

LeBaron & Carroll is dedicated to having knowledgeable, professional employees and providing them a safe, enjoyable, and fulfilling work place. We will continue to be a trusted advisor to our clients and a recognized leader in the insurance industry.

(866) 808-1321 | (480) 834-9315 www.landc.com

South Coast Wholesale

South Coast Wholesale is a commercial supplier of high-quality date palms, fan palms, and trees. We specialize in Phoenix dactylifera Deglet Noor, Medjool date palms, Zahidi date palms, and Washingtonia fan palms. We also deal in Chamaerops humilis and mature olive trees. SCW is based in California and ships regularly to Arizona. (888) 326-7256

www.southcoastwholesale.com

Join Our Team to Volunteer

Driving Fleet Excellence

Recently,Enterprise Fleet Management was officially ranked the largest fleet management provider in the United States, according to Automotive Fleet’s 2021 Fact Book.

This marks a significant moment for our business and demonstrates our ability to grow even during some of the most challenging times. More importantly, it’s something that couldn’t have happened without the hard work and dedication of our employees – and our clients.

Our clients are organizations that put their trust in us everyday to do what we do best. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help them meet their vehicle needs and business goals. As we continue to grow, we look forward to further serving our clients and providing them with fleet solutions.

Partnering with Enterprise gives organizations access to a variety of transportation and mobility solutions to keep their businesses moving forward. If you’re currently facing any transportation challenges, we’re prepared to discuss the different options that are available for your specific situation and offer an innovative solution.

Please let me know if you’re interested in learning more and we can set up some time to chat.

Sincerely,

Rachel Piontek Account Manager (480) 783-8148

Rachel.Piontek@efleets.com

Hardscape Design Trends to Watch this Summer

By: Joe Raboine, Vice President of Design, Oldcastle APG

Outdoorliving remains a priority among homeowners, and they are becoming more thoughtful about outdoor design. According to a survey from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 58% of respondents, including builders and architects, factor in nature as a significant influence on their design decisions. The survey also notes that connecting with nature will continue to be a top influence on home design choices over the next three years.

Biophilic design continues to trend year-over-year, helping blur the lines between indoor and outdoor design and create seamless transitions in these spaces. Blending landscapes with hardscapes helps a design feel more organic, especially when mixing materials and textures. Hardscapes often play a role in these design concepts, as they complement or even mimic natural elements in their tones and textures.

Biophilic design, however, isn’t the only outdoor design trend to watch this year. Here are a few other outdoor design ideas to inspire your creativity this summer.

1. Utilizing Color and Texture

Hardscapes today are not just flat tones and smooth textures. Recent innovations in product technology introduced new textures and colors to the market, allowing you to add more visual depth and interest to hardscape projects.

Textured pavers can mimic natural rock or stone, helping add a natural flair to any project. These styles pair well with nearly any home style, from rustic to modern. You also can create unique patterns with textured, modular pavers.

Color options have also expanded, allowing for complementary or contrasting designs. Depending on the aesthetic, you can select a monotone palette or combine light and dark tones for more contrasting visuals. Incorporating mixed materials into a project, such as metal, glass, or wood also adds more contrast and dimension, making spaces feel less flat and linear.

2. Focusing on Sustainability

Sustainability is a top priority among both designers and homeowners today. Advances in the industry mean there are more sustainable products you can use in your project, which in turn help clients feel good about their environmental impact.

Using permeable pavers allow you to focus on sustainability while never compromising on design. Permeable pavers absorb water like natural land, helping with water runoff and drainage issues. They can also be designed to harvest rainwater for usage in the garden. Many local municipalities are starting to require permeable pavers in new constructions, so it’s important to be aware of local requirements for various projects.

3.

Spaces for Health and Wellness

Studies show that spending 10-15 minutes can help decrease stress levels by up to 60%. A renewed interest in wellness means people are seeking ways to create health and wellness-centered spaces in their own backyard. Biophilic design lends itself to creating these spaces, which foster rest and relaxation by blending the natural and the built environment.

Outdoor living rooms and garden rooms are popular choices for homes looking to enhance the sense of relaxation. Adding features like fountains, plant walls and pathways help with calmness and serenity to promote well-being. Therapeutic additions also are becoming popular, according to data from Yardzen – they report a 45% increase in requests for saunas and a 34% increase for hot tubs.

4. Technology for Better Design

Traditional sketches are no longer the requirement for an outdoor design. Options today allow you to create more dimensional, realistic representations that wow any client. Augmented reality (AR) tools are streamlining the process and improving the process for contractors and homeowners alike. AR technology allows designers and contractors to show clients a near-exact representation of their space, all the way down to the finishing touches. This can be incredibly helpful for hardscape projects, as clients can see an accurate representation of products.

Outdoor living is now a must-have rather than a nice-to-have in most homes. With new tools, technologies and products, you can surpass client expectations and gain even more exposure for your business.

Rain Bird

The Intelligent Use of Water™

Overthe past eight decades, Rain Bird has strived to deliver products to the market that use water in the most efficient ways possible. Founded in 1933 during the agricultural boom in California, Rain Bird Corporation began with the invention of the original Horizontal Action Impact Drive Sprinkler. The product revolutionized the irrigation industry. Since the beginning, Rain Bird has produced and offered the industry’s broadest range of irrigation products. Decades before the term “water restrictions” became a common term, Rain Bird recognized the need to wisely use and conserve our most precious resource. Rain Bird’s commitment to The Intelligent Use of Water™ continues to influence all aspects of Rain Bird’s business philosophy and resonates through constant innovation and development of water-conserving products that include irrigation sprinklers, drip components, pumps and timer/ controllers. Today, Rain Bird offers over 4,000 water-saving irrigation products that can be found in farms, golf courses, sports arenas, commercial developments and homes in more than 130 countries around the world.

A Legacy Continued

In recent years, Rain Bird has introduced dozens of new products with more on the way. Some products are an additional component that increases the efficiency of an existing product. Others are an improved new version of an existing product. And others are an entirely new product in itself.

In 2020 Rain Bird has continued to break new ground in the landscape irrigation industry with the release of the new ESP-LX-IVM (Integrated Valve Module) and IQ™4 Central Control Platform.

Introducing Rain Bird’s new ESP-LX-IVM Two-Wire System

The new ESP-LX-IVM has many powerful and flexible features, starting with the revolutionary new Integrated Valve Module (IVM). This “smart solenoid” stays in constant communication with the controller, providing efficient irrigation and advanced diagnostics. The new IVM now integrates the station-decoder and solenoid as one component reducing the needed wire splices by half, improving installation costs and system reliability. A simple-to-use interface and advanced diagnostics make LX-IVM the best controller on the market. Two models are available, the LX-IVM which supports up to 60 stations and the LX-IVM Pro which supports up to 240 stations. Up to four Two-Wire paths can be connected, plus flow sensing and advanced flow management tools that set new industry standards for state-of-the art water management.

Applications

Rain Bird’s ESP-LX-IVM Series 2-Wire controllers are designed for the largest and most demanding sites, such as housing or condominium complexes, schools, sports fields, parks and public spaces, or large industrial and commercial sites.

Easy to Use

ESP-LX-IVM features an extra-large backlit LCD display and soft key text labels for button functions that change depending on the programming step.

Introducing the Future of Central Control

For years Rain Bird’s IQ Platform has offered professionals some of the industries most powerful tools to remotely manage irrigation systems. Rain Bird is proud to announce that IQ has evolved and progressed along side our commercial controller line-up.

Now, with IQ4 take control of your irrigation business and reputation through full remote access of irrigation systems for healthier landscape from any device capable of web browsing.

IQ4 is equipped with a modern new user interface for simple set-up with streamlined navigation and programming, and automatic weatherbased adjustments. As well it allows real-time access to diagnose and solve problems. The IQ4 Platform offers state-of-the-art monitoring, programming and control features in an easy to learn user interface and provides advanced water management features saving money and time.

Modern User Interface

IQ4’s modern user interface is web-based and is optimized for any device including tablets and offers full control with smart phones.

Streamlined Navigation

The improved navigation system allows easy set-up and programming due to the new capability of group editing.

Tiered User Access

Tiered access allows tighter control of the field along with the ability to perform remote operations on ESP-LX Controllers.

To learn more about Rain Bird Control Solutions, visit www.rainbird. com/professionals/TakeControl.

Or contact Daniel Porter at dporter@rainbird.com or Brandon Grimes at Bgrimes@rainbird.com

Southwest Sod

Our climate can be unforgiving, which can be challenging to the most experienced farmers. Over 38 years we at Southwest Sod Inc. have discovered a balance between key ingredients like the plant stock, water, maintenance, good soil conditions, and fertilizer. This formula has powered our products for decades. Here are a few tips for you.

Water your turf in the early morning to prevent excessive evaporation. As the temperature begins to warm keep a close eye out for a blue/ gray tinted green color. This is your first sign of heat stress. Saturate the area with the garden hose and adjust your sprinklers to help ensure

water reaches the root system. A good saturation level will allow a screwdriver to penetrate the area about 4 inches. Also, if footprints stay in your grass for more than five minutes it is time to turn on your sprinklers. Newly installed yards should be watered 10 to 15 minutes three times a day until the sod takes root. Cut back your watering schedule.

Grass needs water, but it loves fertilizer. A properly fertilized lawn has good density and deep color. Fertilizing not only strengthens the plant, it protects the lawn from drought disease and weeds. For best results you will want to fertilize your turf once a month. In the summer, think Ammonium sulfate (21-0-0) or a similar analysis. A good nitrogen-based fertilizer will help your lawn maintain its deep green color. In the winter and early spring, Ammonium phosphate (16-20-0) or similar is a good fertilizer to use. The shorter daylight hours mean the turf needs additional nutrient source, namely phosphorus. Since summer is just around the corner, our turf team wanted to share with you how to

transition your clients’ lawns. Be on the lookout for an increase in temperature, because once nighttime temperatures are consistently above 65°, you will want to begin preparing the lawn for the summer season.

For grass that has been overseeded, keep the grass mowed back short, leaving only about 50% of the leaf blade. Then you can reduce watering for 5-7 days to 70%-80% of your normal use. This stresses the ryegrass and allows the hybrid to flourish. Next fertilize with a (21-0-0) analysis or fertilizer with a similar rate of Ammonium sulfate and return to regular watering and mowing schedule. Be sure to rake the ryegrass off as it dies out so that the underlying hybrid Bermuda gets plenty of sunshine and watering. What’s normal? Well, you usually should be watering 10-15 minutes every day and mow once a week. You can transition gradually and still maintain a green yard. If you wish to transition totally, reducing water, be sure to remove all the grass cuttings and excess plant material to avoid plant diseases.

For those lawns that have been not been overseeded, mow your lawn, but be sure to remove only about 1/3 of the leaf blade. Next, carefully rake the yard to remove the cuttings and any dead grass that has accumulated over winter. Fertilize monthly with a (21-0-0) or similar analysis and water twice a week for 15-20 minutes. As your grass comes out of dormancy, be sure to increase your watering schedule to every day for 10-15 minutes.

If you follow those steps, you can bet your client’s lawn will look as if it just came from our farm. We really do have talented team of turf experts, and they would love to assist you in helping make your turf dreams come true. We may just be watching the grass grow, so please call us anytime at (602) 271-4266 or visit us at our website southwestsod.com if you have any questions or if you would like more information on our products. We look forward to hearing from you.

Exce l lence In Landscaping Awards PROGRAM

The landscape industry is one where dedication, creativity, and hard work converge to create breathtaking outdoor spaces that enhance our environments and enrich our lives. In recognition of the remarkable contributions made by professionals in this field, the Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association (ALCA) is thrilled to announce the launch of the ALCA Excellence in Landscaping Awards Program for 2024.

Scheduled to kick off on May 1, 2024, this eagerly awaited initiative is designed to honor and celebrate outstanding achievements within the landscaping industry. It's a platform to showcase the talent, innovation, and dedication of individuals and teams who are shaping the future of landscape design, installation, and maintenance.

Here are the key details you need to know about the ALCA Excellence in Landscaping Awards Program:

RELEASE DATE

The program will officially launch on May 1, 2024, marking the beginning of the submission period.

SUBMISSION PERIOD

The submission window opens on May 1, 2024, and runs until June 15, 2024. This provides ample time for participants to prepare and submit their entries.

CATEGORIES

The program features several categories to encompass the diverse aspects of the landscape industry. These include Commercial Maintenance, Residential Maintenance, Commercial Installation, and Residential Installation.

ELIGIBILITY

To participate in the ALCA Excellence in Landscaping Awards Program, individuals and

teams must be ALCA members. This ensures that the program remains exclusive to industry professionals who are committed to upholding the highest standards of excellence.

SUBMISSION PROCESS

Detailed instructions on how to submit entries will be provided upon the release of the program. The process will be streamlined to make it accessible and straightforward for all participants.

As anticipation builds for the launch of the ALCA Excellence in Landscaping Awards Program, interested individuals and teams are encouraged to begin preparing their submissions. Whether you specialize in maintaining commercial landscapes, transforming residential properties, or executing large-scale installations, this is your opportunity to showcase your talent and expertise on a prestigious platform.

This program not only celebrates individual accomplishments but also serves as a catalyst for the advancement of the entire green industry. By recognizing excellence and innovation, we inspire others to push boundaries, raise standards, and drive positive change within the landscape profession.

Your continued support and enthusiasm are essential as we embark on this journey to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our community. Let's come together to celebrate excellence in landscaping and honor the individuals and teams who are shaping the future of our industry.

ENTER TODAY

Visit - https://alca.cpjam.com/2024Excellence-in-Landscaping

BUSINESS BROKER

Macor Associates, Inc. (602) 989-9960

macorassociates.com

Please see our ad on page 6

MANAGEMENT

OnSite OilChange Plus (480) 470-0352

onsiteoilchangeplus.com

Please see our ad on page 23

IRRIGATION PRODUCTS & SYSTEMS

Horizon (800) PVCTURF (782-8873)

horizononline.com

Please see our ad on page 22

Hunter Industries (760) 744-5240

hunterindustries.com

Please see our ad on page 7

Metro Institute (602) 452-2900

metroinstitute.com

Please see our ad on page 10 LANDSCAPE EQUIPMENT

Stotz Equipment 623-936-7131

stotzequipment.com

Please see our ad on page 17

LANDSCAPE

Cutting Edge Curbing Sand & Rock

Landscape Materials (602) 353-1020

cuttingedgecurbing.com

Please see our ad on page .................................... 5

Material Delivery, Inc.

dba MDI Rock (602) 569-8722

mdirock.com

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Brilliance LED, LLC (800) 867-2108

brillianceled.com

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NURSERIES

All Season Wholesale Growers (602) 276-0230

allseasongrowers.com

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Arid Solutions Nursery (602) 437-5194

aridsolutionsnursery.com

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Arizona Wholesale Growers (623) 581-3100

azwholesalegrowers.com

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Pacific Palms, Inc. (623) 580-6933

pacificpalms.com

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South Coast Wholesale (888) 326-7256

southcoastwholesale.com

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OLIVES & ORANMENTALS

Arizona Olives & Ornamentals (601) 833-8252

olivesaz.com

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SOD/TURF

Evergreen Turf, Inc. (480) 456-1199

evergreenturf.com

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westcoastturf.com

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TREES

Western Tree Company (602) 243-6125

westerntree.com

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Give Spring & Summer Weeds The Boot.