Green Industry Pros January/February 2025

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professionals, manufacturers and industry experts dig into where the industry is firmly rooted, the challenges it has weathered, what items may need trimmed and where there are opportunities for branching out.

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Landscape

Hardscape

BY SARAH WEBB

WHAT WILL YOU RESOLVE TO DO?

Happy New Year! You’re likely familiar with the phrase, “new year, new you,” and some of you might be sick of hearing it, but I want to know, is there any truth to it?

I’ve read a lot of articles lately about New Year’s resolutions and how they so often fail, but one article I read in the New York Times suggested sticking to and doubling down on the good habits we already have, rather than creating lofty goals that may be altogether unattainable.

my ear closer to the ground to determine what trends may be impacting the industry. This year, I will sniff out the best stories that you, our audience, want to read.

This year, I will tell those stories in a way that’s engaging, educational and entertaining to you, our readers, in the hopes that you will be touched by them in some way.

EDITORIAL

Editor Sarah Webb swebb@Iron.Markets

AUDIENCE

Audience Development Manager Angela Franks

PRODUCTION

Senior Production Manager Cindy Rusch crusch@Iron.Markets

Art Director April Van Etten

ADVERTISING/SALES

Brand Director Jason DeSarle jdesarle@Iron.Markets

Sales Representitive Kaylee Kidd kkidd@Iron.Markets

In the spirit of my word of the year, we at Green Industry Pros have certainly been attentive to the heartbeat of the landscape industry. This year, we had about 500 landscape professionals take our State of the Industry survey, and there’s a lot to unpack. We also talked with landscape professionals and manufacturers to understand their take as well. You can take a look at the full story on p. 8.

IRONMARKETS

Chief Executive Officer Ron Spink

Chief Revenue Officer Amy Schwandt VP, Finance Greta Teter VP, Operations & IT Nick Raether VP, Demand Generation & Education Jim Bagan

For example, maybe your company excels at recruitment or has a really strong employee education program. Maybe your social media team does a stellar job of creating a mix of educational content posts and before and after project shots that have brought in a lot of new business. And maybe your operations team is well organized and shines in making sure the day-to-day tasks are smooth. Whatever area you excel in, how can you as a business owner make it stronger?

Personally, I’ve done away with the resolutions and opted instead to lean on a “word of the year,” which likely comes as no surprise with my job as an editor. This year, I have chosen the word “attentive.” I like to think that I offer readers and sources alike the chance to tell their story to someone who is fully listening, fully present, but I’d like to double down on those efforts.

This year, I will pay even closer attention to what’s happening in the landscape industry, especially as we see a new presidential administration come in. This year, I will keep an even better eye out for the new equipment that may make our readers’ lives easier. This year, I will have

In addition to the State of the Industry report, you will also find articles on using technology to boost your recruitment and retention game (p. 20), best practices for maintaining spreader-sprayers ahead of the season (p. 22), how to properly mulch (p. 24), the top design-build trends of 2025 (p. 28) and much more.

What about you? Is there a habit you’d like to double down on? What’s something you or your company are really good at? Is there a word you’d like to embody in 2025? I’d love to hear your thoughts—and I’m sure your fellow readers would, too. Email your ideas to swebb@iron.markets or connect with me on LinkedIn by following the link below.

Looking ahead, make sure you check out next month’s issue, where we will cover all things mowers as we head into the new spring season. Until next time!

Corporate Director of Sales Jason DeSarle

Brand Director, Construction, OEM & IRONPROS Sean Dunphy

Content Director Marina Mayer

Director, Online & Marketing Services Bethany Chambers

Director, Event Content & Programming Jess Lombardo

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201 N. Main St. Ste 350, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 (877) 201-3915 | Fax: (847) 291-4816 circ.greenindustrypros@omeda.com

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Sr. Account Manager Bart Piccirillo | Data Axle (518)339-4511 | bart.piccirillo@infogroup.com

REPRINTS & LICENSING

Brand Director Jason DeSarle jdesarle@Iron.Markets

https://gpros.co/y668un

MOWER MADNESS

THE LATEST ONLINE NEWS YOU CAN USE

Would you like to stay up to date on the latest news around the green industry but can’t wait for the next print issue of Green Industry Pros to come out? Be sure to subscribe to our e-newsletters—including The Pro Report, SnowPRO and The Lawn Care Report just to name a few—using the QR code, so you can stay informed on what’s going on around the industry.

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You may have participated in past years’ Mower Madness tournaments on social media channels. If you haven’t, the annual competition allows Green Industry Pros’ social media audience to decide on their favorite mower for the year. The competition coincides with the NCAA’s March Madness tournament each year, so be sure to check our social media channels (listed below) to see if your favorite mower made the cut.

Last year, Bobcat Co.’s ZT5000 zero-turn took home the crown. Follow the QR code below to learn more about last year’s tournament and find out how you can follow along this year.

https://gpros.co/eqgx7y5h

To stay updated on the latest happenings around the green industry, be sure to follow Green Industry Pros’ social media channels:

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BY SARAH WEBB

STAYING

Landscape professionals and manufacturers dig into where the industry is firmly rooted, the challenges it has weathered, what items may need to be trimmed and where there are opportunities for branching out.

Picture a thriving tree: Its thick bark runs the entire length of the trunk, protecting the nutrients that lie within. The lush emerald green leaves reach toward the sky, proof of all the hard work it has put in to achieve growth, even in the dormant winter months. Yes, it may have weathered a few storms and bear the scars. It may even have a few desiccated parts that may need to be trimmed back, but its network of roots runs deep underground, anchoring it firmly to the soil.

It’s stable, it’s steady, it’s solid. Those words reflect how landscape professionals view the state of the green industry.

- Denys

Over the course of several months, Green Industry Pros spoke to manufacturers, landscape professionals and industry experts about the state of the green industry. Overall, 424 individuals interacted with Green Industry Pros’ State of the Industry survey, giving a comprehensive overview of how the landscape industry looks.

According to the survey, 21% of respondents said the state of the industry was excellent, 56% said good, 21% said fair and 2% said poor.

Through that report and subsequent interviews, landscape professionals, manufacturers and industry experts dug into where the industry is firmly rooted, the challenges it has weathered, what items may need trimmed and potential opportunities for branching out.

2024 in review

Many pros agree that the landscape industry has reached a more controlled midpoint compared to the wild pendulum swings of the last few years.

“The 2020s have seen some record sales years for the landscape industry, especially during COVID when homeowners literally watched their grass grow, and they had time on their hands to focus on improving their yards,” says Carissa Gingras, director of marketing, North America | Forestry, Lawn & Garden, Oregon Tool. “2020 was all about managing allocations and inventory. 2021 and 2022 were all about dealers loading up on the products they couldn’t get in 2020. 2022 and 2023 were abnormal weather years. There doesn’t seem to be a normal anymore.”

Additionally, over the past few years, there have been significant pricing swings with commodities, but providers are finally seeing stabilization, says Brian Rowan, vice president, category management for SiteOne Landscape Supply. Gingras adds that it’s been realized that the “new normal” is not a static state, so it becomes all about adaptation and change.

Jon Matson, vice president of sales and marketing for Briggs & Stratton, says

manufacturers are working to understand the true demand following a COVID correction.

“We’re finally coming out of all of the challenges that COVID threw at us,” Matson says. “As homeowners are now starting to get really busy again and increasingly returning to the office, landscapers are benefitting as their clients have less time and more need for their services. We’re still facing some inflationary pressures, which affect retail financing. My gut says that the new normal is potentially a more fluid and more agile position on inventory as we move on.”

Matson notes that as the season progressed through 2024, dealers wanted to see inventory taken down to a manageable level. Now, dealers are starting to stock back at normal levels for 2025. Manufacturers, too, have returned to more normal levels as supply chain challenges have evened out, and most manufacturers have started to weather the economic forces.

Overall, the industry may sway in the wind to accommodate the tougher gales brought on by inflation and labor shortages, and it may need to adapt to a “new normal,” but overall, the industry remains relatively steady.

Storms to weather

Here’s a look at the headwinds landscape professionals face.

1. ECONOMIC FORCES

While inflation has cooled recently, the challenge still lurks in landscapers’ minds. In fact, 36% of survey respondents listed inflation and price increases as their primary concerns.

Kirk Brown, owner of Kirk’s Lawn Care in Douglassville, Pa., says some consumers were more cost-conscious due to the state of the economy.

“We noticed some slowing in client spending for large landscape and hardscape projects,” Brown says. “We were able to keep our install crews busy, but we did not have the backlog of projects we have had in past years.

Hiring qualified team members continues to be a challenge.”

Over the years, Pierre Bridger, director of operations for Vibrant Outdoors in Indianapolis, Ind., says that it’s also been harder for companies to make money on items such as mowing due to price gouging among competition.

“That’s the industry’s fault because we’ve taught (landscapers) to beat the heck out of each other on price, and so (customers) can get away with not paying a fair fee,” Bridger says. “As the industry has aged, we’re getting better at holding the line on price, but the newer companies don’t seem to know that yet.”

Economic concerns have led some to repair equipment, rather than replace it.

“Contractors are still focused on inflation and its impact on business,” Gingras says. “In these environments, parts businesses like ours are doing well because users are repairing, not replacing as much.”

However, many pros still bought new equipment for the purposes of labor savings, efficiency enhancements and government incentives. Of the respondents surveyed, 73% said they bought new equipment in 2024, but 27% said they did not. Reasons included:

• “The purchase of certain energy-saving equipment or new energy vehicle manufacturing equipment can enjoy high tax deductions and financial subsidies.”

• “In order to promote the development of green industries, the government has introduced a series of incentive policies and subsidy measures.”

• “Technology integration for easy production to meet customers demand.”

• “We bought new equipment in 2024 because our existing machinery was outdated and frequently breaking down, which was causing delays in our projects. The new equipment has improved efficiency and reliability, allowing us to serve our clients better.”

Among the reasons for not, some cited budgetary concerns, saving money and repairing what equipment they had.

Other solutions from survey respondents to combatting the current

STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

economic situation included:

• Raising pricing

• Increasing marketing

• Looking at ordering rebates and volume discounts

• Leasing cheaper equipment

• Managing job costs and imple menting lean management practices

2. LABOR DEPLETION

Of the survey respondents, 29% said that labor is their most pressing concern.

Mark Schneid, head of commercial operations, North America, Envu, notes that it’s not just about hiring good people, but it’s also about giving them fair pay and providing them the opportunity to grow within a company.

“We talk about the customer experience, but let’s talk about the employee experience,” Schneid says. “Let’s equip them with the right tools to do the job as efficiently as possible as well as the right chemical solutions that’ll get them the best results, so customers are saying ‘wow, thank you,’ instead of pointing out a break in weed control.”

Gary Garvin, president of J&G Landscaping in Casper, Wyo., says labor has been the company’s biggest hurdle for the last 15 years.

“Nobody wants to do labor anymore, even though we have nice equipment— you cannot find people that want to run it,” Garvin says.

Scott Horoszewski, owner of Acme NLS in Swanton, Ohio, agrees.

“It’s getting to where more people don’t want to do this type of work—they want to sit at home and watch YouTubers and influencers who say they can make money doing that,” Horoszewski says. “They don’t want to be out there in the sun.”

To combat that challenge, Acme is hiring people in at a higher rate and offering more benefits such as 401K and retirement plans.

Landscape professionals’ opinions on the current state of the industry:

Matson adds that the seasonality of the work may prove to be a big reason why keeping still labor is difficult for companies.

“Dealerships are trying to find technicians, and landscapers are trying to find people who will work from sunup to sundown, and it’s seasonal work, which is why snow is important,” Matson says.

“If you can keep the totality of your workforce intact for the entire year, that provides more continuity for that business in the long term.”

3. LEGISLATIVE FORCES

Both legislation and end customer preference are driving new product usage trends, Rowan says.

“The impact has been most noticeable

with pesticide (i.e., imidacloprid), fertilizer (phosphorous) and outdoor power equipment (petrol emissions),” Rowan says.

Thirteen percent of respondents say regulatory issues have become a primary concern.

When asked how to stay ahead of these challenges, one survey respondent said, “Staying involved in state and national associations to have a voice in the regulatory environment.”

Bridger agrees.

“We still have markets where there are groups of folks that would like to eliminate certain pesticides and have control over what we do as an industry—and that’s concerning,” Bridger says.

He reflects on an instance in Indiana where if Senate Bill 216 had passed as written, it would have eliminated licensure for for-hire lawn care applications.

“As it turned out, we were able to amend the bill, but there were a lot of stakeholders who joined hands to make that happen,” Bridger says. “I’m concerned there are states that may not be as organized as we were, and when that happens in one state, it’s going to keep moving.”

Trends

Landscape professionals discuss what’s currently trending in the green industry.

1. EFFICIENCY ENHANCEMENTS

With labor still a primary concern within the industry, it’s no wonder landscape companies are looking for products to alleviate that.

For example, Garvin says if there’s a piece of equipment that can save on labor, his company buys it.

“We have mini excavators that take the place of a shovel, ride-on machines—it seems we own it all because we can’t find any laborers,” Garvin says.

Matson says companies also seek out products that require less maintenance and less downtime.

 Open block design creates excellent self-cleaning

 Aggressive tread design creates reference level lateral and traction grip

 New compound and more rubber in the tread creates better grip and increased lifetime

 Re-designed carcass structure gives more lifetime and better stability

 Siped non-directional thr ead design with pre-marked stud position

STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

“In the past, a landscaper may have had the ability to flex employees who would have been able to do maintenance in the shop at the end of the week or over the weekend,” Matson says. “Now it’s all hands on deck to just perform for the clients that they have on the books.”

Gingras adds that technological advances that help landscapers reduce downtime, manage windshield time, track profitability and repair equipment just in time will lead to foundational shifts in how landscape companies work.

“It’s not just about AI helping landscape companies write job descriptions for new hires or about the back-end accounting programs that help companies track their expenses,” Gingras says. “It’s about the technology that makes a landscape company more efficient and profitable with current resources, especially when labor continues to be a challenge.”

Peter Bigwood, general manager, Mecalac North America, says there’s also been a growing demand for machines that are productive and versatile.

“In the case of labor, we find more landscaping contractors are adopting

versatile equipment that can excel in several applications to improve productivity and reduce the number of required workers on any given job,” Bigwood says.

Lee Smith, director of product strategy at Bobcat Co., adds that landscape customers are finding that attachments can improve their operations.

“By pairing the right attachments with their equipment, companies can significantly boost jobsite productivity, allowing operators to perform a wider range of tasks with a single machine,” Smith says. “This versatility translates to increased efficiency and reduced operating costs. Additionally, different attachments also help equipment owners extend their operations from season to season. We see many customers using their loaders or tractors for landscaping in the warmer seasons, then leveraging snow management attachments in the winter to extend their working season.”

New technology has also played a role in transforming the way landscape companies do business.

Over the last several years, Kirk’s Lawn Care has integrated technology

to text message with clients instead of emailing and redesigned its software to allow clients to view, customize and sign up for plans online.

“A lot of our clients prefer texting, and with us having that capability, they love it,” Brown says. “(With the software), they can see their pricing change in real time based upon the selections they make and complete and sign the agreement all online. This has allowed us to upsell more and keep things organized.”

2. ELECTRIFICATION VERSUS GAS

The debate between gas-powered and battery-powered equipment has remained hot over the past several years, but some professionals are saying that electrified equipment may not take hold as quickly as previously expected.

One major benefit of electric equipment comes with the sustainability aspect of fewer emissions.

According to the survey, 15% of respondents said sustainability is essential to them, 16% said it’s very important, 38% said it’s important and 24% said it’s somewhat important, with only 7% saying it is not important at all.

“As far as electrification, I think that there is a time and a place for electrification, but we’re also seeing it as a challenge because of the increased cost of an electrified product,” Matson says. “So, we’re seeing a little bit of a spike in gas-powered equipment that lets us know that gas is here for a long time to come.”

Smith says he expects to see more alternative-power machines on the market.

“Demand for electric equipment will likely continue to grow as landscapers learn more about the technology, its benefits and how it can open the door to a new customer base,” Smith says.

Brant Kukuk, compact equipment manager at Ditch Witch, has noted the shift to electric extends beyond smaller tools to include ground-engaging equipment as well.

“Electric equipment offers numerous benefits including increased efficiency, significant time savings and enhanced

power,” Kukuk says. “As the industry embraces electrification, it’s crucial for contractors to stay ahead of the curve. By considering electric equipment now, contractors can position themselves for success in the future.”

3. AUTONOMOUS EQUIPMENT

Also addressing the labor issue, autonomous equipment has rolled up to the landscape scene.

Gingras notes that landscape professionals should not be wary of this technology as it can provide them with the time to pursue other higher-profit work.

“Autonomous mowers aren’t replacing the humans—they are taking care of the low-profitability chores, freeing up the crew for higher-value offerings like design-build,” Gingras says. “Technology is a tool, not a substitute.”

Bridger adds that by incorporating autonomous equipment into a fleet, landscape companies may open up their recruiting pool.

“We could recruit someone who is not a traditional landscaper and hire someone that understands the technology,” Bridger says.

4. PRIVATE EQUITY FIRMS

Consolidation has continued within the industry as private equity firms (PE) have become more active.

“The PE firms are grabbing a lot of these smaller landscape companies, which the firms are then aggregating for scale, and I think there’s more to come as dealers are aging and as we deal with this shortage of people wanting to get into the dealership space,” Matson says. “It’s creating an opportunity for PE firms or even larger dealers to consume smaller dealers and scale for efficiency.”

In response to private equity firms carving space for themselves in the landscape industry, one survey respondent said, “Continued consolidation of privately owned companies is opening the door for less competition in the marketplace by locally based, privately owned companies and

putting us in a favorable position to only compete with the national chains or equity-firm owned companies that cannot deliver personalized service.”

Another agreed that the consolidation offers an opportunity for smaller companies: “Consolidation of local landscape contractors by national companies allows for us to uniquely offer personalized service in our region. Most competitors our size have sold out to national chains.”

AdobeStock/ungvar

5. VALUE-ADD OPPORTUNITIES

Many companies have branched out to look for higher-revenue opportunities.

“They may have started just cutting grass, and now they’re pursuing landscape installs or offering sprayer-spreader services on the fertilizer application side of the business where the margins are really good,” Matson says. “Those opportunities take the right skilled labor, education and certification.”

Kukuk says branching into other segments can help ensure a more stable and diversified business, especially when seasonal work, like snow removal, is unreliable.

“This strategy allows them to tap into new revenue streams and sustain their business while waiting for an uptick in work in specific industry segments,” Kukuk says. “There has been a notable increase in demand for bigger stand-on skid-steers, which provide contractors with the power and versatility needed to excel in tree care and hardscaping projects. We have also noticed that rental yards are more cautious with new purchases unless utilization rates justify them. Smaller landscaping tasks that require walk-behind trenchers or smaller stand-on skid-steers have been impacted by inflation and reduced disposable income, leading to a decrease in demand for these machines.”

Want to hear more about the current state of the landscape industry?

Check out the full Q+As with industry representatives here.

https://gpros.co/j2k3v8ir

Other “outside the box” options, such as holiday lighting, are options to expand as well.

“Our holiday lighting services really overperformed versus 2023,” Brown says. “Demand is up for seasonal decorating services.”

However, Brown notes that with the demand of holiday lighting rising, there has been a flood of installers that have entered the market that don’t charge enough for their services and as a result, don’t take care of the clients, echoing Bridger’s sentiment on pricing.

“That could be selling them homeowner grade instead of commercial grade lights or never coming back to take the lights down after the holidays,” Brown says. “We have had to educate people on the value of choosing us and our services. We offer a 100% lifelong warranty on our lights, and our all-inclusive pricing includes service calls within 48 hours of notification. We do what it takes to make our clients satisfied, full stop.”

STATE OF THE INDUSTRY

6. OUTDOOR FUNCTIONAL SPACES

A trend that began with COVID, customers are still asking landscape contractors to boost their outdoor spaces.

Landscape functionality is becoming more important, meaning homeowners want to use their outdoor space for longer periods of the year, in a flexible way for various activities, Brown says.

“Specifically with patios, it’s making sure there is ample seating for get-togethers, heaters or fire features for the colder months, landscape and patio lighting for summer nights, outdoor kitchens and more,” Brown says. “It’s not that func tionality wasn’t important before, but with the 2024 economy, it was more top of mind to homeowners to get the most functionality for their money.”

On the horizon

Survey respondents’ opinions on the state of the landscape industry over the next three to five years:

expecting really good snow this year, and I’m expecting landscapers to be in the market to replenish and repurchase products that might have gotten a little bit long in the tooth.”

While much of the market has leveled out, Gingras says the industry is still experiencing certain dynamics that haven’t previously occurred.

“Back-to-back hurricanes in the Southeast causing unimaginable damage and a first-ever president who was reelected after losing the previous election are market dynamics that we’ve never seen before,” Gingras says. “Obviously, we’re keeping an eye on the incoming administration and preparing for various scenarios related to different potential policy proposals that may impact the industry as a whole from landscapers to dealers, distributors and ultimately manufacturers.”

One trend to expect over the next year or so includes continued adoption of products that address labor concerns, such as slow-release fertilizers, robotic mowers, products with minimal maintenance and products that deliver greater efficacy.

Darren Gruner, founder of Turf’s Up Radio and principal of TotalScape Design in Coral Springs, Fla., adds that sustainability and regulatory changes will also continue to affect the industry.

“As we look toward the future, challenges such as water scarcity, labor shortages and regulatory changes are expected to shape the landscape industry,” Gruner says. “Innovation, collaboration and a commitment to sustainable practices will be key drivers for success in navigating these complex challenges and embracing opportunities for growth.”

Schneid says continued innovation and education will also come to the forefront.

“It’s how can we as a partner bring new solutions, ideas, training and education that can help lawn care and landscape professionals be more proficient in what

they’re doing,” Schneid says. “We’re focused on all of those things to deliver great solutions and innovation and also be great stewards, in conjunction with our lawn and landscape professionals, to get those best results each and every time.”

Matson says he expects landscape companies to start purchasing new equipment in the next year, especially if it snows in areas where winters have been mild the past several years.

“We haven’t had very good snow in the last two to three years, and that’s a big revenue generator for landscapers, especially in the Midwest and the Northeast. That gives landscapers that seed money to purchase equipment early in a new year,” Matson says. “So, I’m

Bigwood says the end of 2024 makes him cautiously optimistic for 2025.

“Interest rates are starting to ease, demand is rising and the supply chain bulges are working themselves out,” Bigwood says. “Hopefully, that remains, and the landscaping industry experiences a strong, prosperous year.”

Landscape pros agree: 27% are very optimistic about the year to come, 42% are somewhat optimistic, 24% are neutral, 6% are somewhat pessimistic and 1% are very pessimistic. In all, many landscape pros think the industry will flourish, spreading both branches and roots, in 2025.

Are you interested in hearing advice from landscape professionals in the industry?

Take a look at what they recommend to newcomers and seasoned industry veterans alike.

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EQUIPMENT

BY SARAH WEBB

KEEP IT RUNNING:

Engine Maintenance

Consult this guide of engine maintenance items to make sure your equipment is ready to go and you have minimal downtime.

You’ve heard the expression that what you put in is what you get out. Engines are no exception.

“Just like a car, your landscaping equipment needs regular checkups to stay in top shape,” says Randy Lockyear, senior director of sales at Vanguard.

Experts from Honda, Rehlko and Vanguard explain why routine maintenance will result in strong output for the entire season.

Routine maintenance

For seasonal equipment, maintenance checks should be done at the beginning of the season, while for commercial and rental equipment under nearly constant usage, checks should be performed once a year or after 200 hours of usage, says Colin Miller, assistant manager, public relations, Honda Power Sports & Products.

Experts list the following routine maintenance to be performed:

• Check the oil level. Start by removing the dipstick, wiping the oil from it and inserting it back into the engine. Be careful NOT to screw it in. Then, remove the dipstick to check the level. Add oil

if necessary, but to prevent spills, don’t overfill. Oil should be changed once per season or more often if the equipment is used more frequently. Generally, smaller single-cylinder engines need an oil change annually, while for larger v-twin engines, oil changes are typically needed every 100 hours, but check recommended intervals in the owner’s manual.

• Inspect and replace air filters and spark plugs according to the usage hours and manufacturer’s recommendations. Smaller single-cylinder engines regular air filter checks and replacement at least every other year, and larger engines may require a new air filter every 100 hours. However, air filter replacement schedules vary, so it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Spark plugs should be inspected yearly. Spark plugs for larger commercial engines may require an annual replacement. No matter what type of engine a landscape professional is operating, it’s a good practice to check the oil level and air filter condition daily before use.

• Inspect for loose bolts and fasteners as well as fuel and oil leaks. Give the engine a quick 60-second look for any fluid leaks or loose or missing parts.

• Clear debris and other contamination. Dirt and debris can lead to clogging of the carburetor passages and affect engine performance. Don’t forget to also check for debris buildup under the fan shroud, as this can obstruct airflow and cause the engine to overheat. For larger engines, regular valve clearance inspections are crucial for optimal performance and efficiency.

• Inspect the wiring of the engine. Animals such as mice can climb in and make a nest over the winter. Inspect the engines for signs of moisture or potential wear.

• Proper fuel storage is also key to preventing engine problems, especially when equipment sits idle for extended periods. While some opt to completely drain the fuel system for winter storage, another effective method is to fill the tank with nonethanol fuel and use a fuel stabilizer. Follow the product instructions carefully. This typically

Similar to cars, engines of mowers and other equipment require maintenance to keep them up and running all year long. Vanguard

involves filling the fuel tank with fresh gas, adding the correct amount of stabilizer based on the tank’s capacity and then running the engine for a few minutes to circulate the stabilizer throughout the fuel system. Store fuel in a sealed container, away from direct sunlight and off the ground to prevent contamination and degradation.

Troubleshooting

Lockyear notes that a well-maintained engine should start easily, whether it’s a first or second pull for a manual start or within five seconds for a batteryequipped model.

He adds that some starting issues could stem from a weak or depleted battery. Verify the battery’s charge and ensure that it provides sufficient cold cranking amps to start the engine. If problems persist, a qualified technician can perform a voltage test on the starting system to identify possible electrical issues.

Other warning signs include excessive smoke from the exhaust, especially at startup, rough running or an inconsistent engine speed. If the engine feels excessively hot, that’s a serious issue that needs to be addressed promptly.

“Any of these signs could indicate a problem that needs professional attention,” Lockyear says.

To pinpoint the issue, Michael Broetzmann, manager, training and technical publications, global engines, at Rehlko, recommends a full inspection of the engine to look for signs of oil leakage.

“That would be something they’d want to get addressed by their dealer prior to the start of the season because a small leak can turn into a large leak, which could lead to a catastrophic failure,” Broetzmann says.

Steve Stenz, product manager at Rehlko, says if a landscaper notices a machine not performing well, the operator should do a full inspection of the unit, rather than just the engine, taking a look at items such as pulleys, belts and the chassis.

“We don’t want to point fingers right away at the engine when it could be a drive system or deck issue,” says Stenz.

Additional performance issues, Lockyear says, could be the result of stale fuel, a clogged carburetor or a restricted air filter. If the fuel is old, draining and replacing it with fresh fuel is recommended. A dirty carburetor can disrupt the fuel-air mixture and may require professional cleaning or servicing. Furthermore, a clogged air filter can impede airflow to the engine, reducing its efficiency and power output.

Miller says the addition of advanced electronics on some engines makes servicing easier.

“For example, the electronics alert feature on engines works to let users know when it’s time for routine maintenance and also provides a diagnosis to address issues immediately,” Miller says. “So, unless it’s something electronic and the user is unable to fix it themselves, small engines can be relatively simple to maintain.”

Miller adds that the owner’s manual can point users in the right direction.

Chris Rector, director of aftermarket sales and support for Rehlko, says a trusted and certified dealer will be able to provide more thorough and accurate diagnostics and repair.

Weather changes

To adapt to weather conditions, landscape professionals can use a lighterweight oil to make those frigid morning starts easier by allowing the oil to flow more freely, says Steve Iveson, sales executive at Vanguard. However, he cautions that winter-blend fuel, common in northern regions, prevents gelling in freezing temperatures but can cause problems in warmer weather.

“It’s also crucial to pay close attention to the cooling system and to make sure the engine has proper ventilation to prevent overheating,” Iveson says.

Stenz notes that in addition to the weight, operators should also be aware of the oil grade.

“If you have summer-grade fuel on there in the middle of winter, you might have some issues of startability or water in the fuel,” Stenz says.

TOP TOOLS

While specialized tools may be needed for complex repairs, basic engine maintenance can be accomplished with a few common tools, Lockyear says.

“A quality socket set, paired with a set of screwdrivers and wrenches, will cover most routine tasks,” Lockyear says. “These allow you to loosen and tighten bolts, access various engine components and perform basic repairs. If your engine has an oil filter, an oil filter wrench can be a helpful addition to your toolkit, making filter removal much easier.”

Rector adds that regardless of the brand, operators should be sure to utilize genuine maintenance parts versus a generic brand because genuine parts are tested to meet the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the maximum life for the equipment.

Landscapers who operate in cold climates should also remember to allow engines and fluids to warm up before using them, according to Rector.

Safety checks

Safety should always be the top priority when performing any engine maintenance.

“Turn the engine off and disconnect the battery to eliminate any chance of accidental starting,” Lockyear says.

As an added precaution, Lockyear suggests removing the spark plug(s) so the engine absolutely cannot fire, even if the starter is accidentally engaged.

Miller says the operator should also clear the work area of debris, be mindful of potential hazards like gasoline spills and flying parts and wear protective equipment such as eyewear, gloves and closed-toes boots. Landscape professionals should always ensure the equipment is properly secured, follow the requirements in the owner’s manual and dispose of waste oil properly, Rector says.

Lastly, Miller says equipment users should only tackle maintenance if they are comfortable doing so.

TECHNOLOGY

How to Use to Recruit and Retain Good Employees

Incorporating technology into your recruitment and retention strategy isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Equip your team with the tools and training they need, and you’ll see your business thrive.

In today’s competitive job market, recruiting and retaining skilled workers in the landscaping industry requires a combination of strategic hiring practices and leveraging technology effectively. By crafting compelling job postings, simplifying application processes and investing in employee development, lawn care and landscape businesses can attract and retain skilled workers. Here are a few tips on how landscape professionals can make it happen.

Recruitment: Simplify and modernize the process

Finding the right employees starts with simplifying the hiring process to meet

the needs of today’s skilled workers. A modern, user-friendly approach will not only attract more candidates but also ensure a smooth experience from start to finish. By embracing technology, you can streamline applications, enhance communication and reach skilled workers where they are.

➊ Be clear and specific in job postings.

A well-crafted job ad is your first step in attracting the right candidates. Use clear and specific job titles, concise overviews and detailed responsibilities to ensure applicants understand the role. For example:

Job Title: Landscape crew member Overview: “We are seeking a motivated landscape crew member to assist in

stock.adobe.com - kunakorn

installations and ongoing maintenance for residential and commercial projects.”

➋ List responsibilities and qualifications in bullet points to make them easy to read. For example:

Responsibilities:

• Weed and trim landscape areas using various tools and equipment.

• Plant and maintain flowers, shrubs and trees.

• Perform soil analysis and apply fertilizers.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience in lawn care or landscaping preferred.

• Knowledge of plants, flowers and lawn maintenance techniques.

• Ability to operate landscaping tools and machinery safely.

PRO TIP: Use platforms like Indeed or ZipRecruiter, and ensure your postings are complete with responsibilities, qualifications and benefits.

tech-savvy approach resonates particularly well with younger generations.

Highlight your company’s unique aspects. Introduce your company with a brief description of its history, mission and values. This gives potential employees insight into your company culture and makes your business stand out.

Retention: Build a strong, tech-driven culture

Keeping great employees requires more than just a paycheck—it’s about fostering a culture of growth, learning and innovation. By integrating technology into training, communication and employee development, you can create an environment where employees feel valued, motivated and eager to stay.

Think of your job ads as a chance to promote your business’s culture, values and opportunities for growth. By positioning your company as an employer of choice, you’ll appeal to candidates who align with your mission and goals.

Example: “At Linnemann Lawn Care and Landscaping, we’ve been transforming outdoor spaces for over 30 years. Our commitment to quality and innovation has made us a leader in landscaping services.”

➊ Continuous training and certification. Beyond onboarding, offer ongoing education tailored to the employee’s specific roles:

• Field staff: Certifications in snow management, retaining walls or landscaping techniques.

In addition to job boards, leverage every marketing channel at your disposal—your website, social media, email newsletters and even your physical assets—to get the word out. Effective recruitment strategies showcase not just the job, but the lifestyle and career potential that come with working for your company.

Turn hiring into marketing.

PRO TIP: Make your job posting engaging and readable. Use language that grabs attention within the first three seconds to keep potential candidates interested.

Showcase benefits and compensation. Transparency in pay and benefits is key to attracting serious candidates. Include details like:

• Competitive wages based on experience

• Health and dental insurance

• Paid time off, sick days and holidays

• Opportunities for career development and on-the-job training

➎ Simplify and modernize the application process. A straightforward application process increases the likelihood of candidates completing it. Ensure your application form is smartphone accessible and asks only for basic details upfront, with more in-depth questions during interviews.

PRO TIP: Add a QR code on your company trucks that links directly to your careers page, simplifying access for interested candidates.

➏ Quick and accessible communication. After receiving an application, communicate quickly using text messaging to gather more details about the candidate. Ask about their experience, desired pay and availability. This

• Office staff: Training in QuickBooks Online, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace or LMN software. Use platforms like Greenius (an LMN training tool) to deliver video-based training and track progress with quizzes. Employees value opportunities to grow, and continuous training builds their expertise and loyalty.

➋ Highlight growth opportunities. Detail career advancement paths in your job postings and reinforce them during onboarding. For example, include training in specialized skills or certifications to encourage long-term commitment.

➌ Offer competitive benefits. Develop a comprehensive benefits package that meets employees’ needs while being cost effective for your business. Consider offering health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off and access to professional development programs.

➍ Showcase your team culture. Include testimonials or success stories in your company newsletter and hiring ads to show that you value your team. Highlighting internal promotions or employee achievements builds trust and morale.

Combine marketing and recruitment

To attract skilled workers, you need to treat hiring as a marketing opportunity.

A hiring ad is a marketing tool. Just as you market your services to clients, market your company to potential employees. Make the ad visually appealing, easy to read and optimized for online platforms.

Leverage multichannel strategies. Beyond job boards, use your company website, social media platforms and even physical marketing (like truck ads with QR codes) to attract candidates.

Why technology matters

Technology simplifies recruitment and enhances the employee experience. From online job postings and mobile-friendly applications to ongoing training and benefits management, tech tools are key to attracting and keeping the right people. By making it easy for potential employees to apply, offering continuous learning opportunities and maintaining strong communication, landscaping businesses can build a team that’s motivated, skilled and loyal.

Incorporating technology into your recruitment and retention strategy isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity.

A combination of clear, attractive job postings and tech-driven solutions like mobile-friendly applications and training platforms ensures your landscaping business stands out. Equip your team with the tools and training they need, and you’ll see your business thrive.

Adam Linnemann Owner

The Green Executive

tial employees insight into your

BY SARAH WEBB

Maintain Now, GAIN LATER

Preventive maintenance on spreader-sprayers can lead to less downtime and a bigger bottom line in the end. Here’s how to achieve this.

Downtime can mean a hit to the bottom line, so it’s important to keep spreader-sprayers in tiptop shape all year round.

By maintaining spreader-sprayers ahead of the busy season, lawn care operators will be sure to gain—more time, more money and more peace of mind.

“Preseason maintenance is important because the beginning of the season is often the busiest time of the year, and it’s never good to have an issue that could have been prevented set you back from the start,” says Kodi Quinlisk, sales representative at Steel Green.

Experts delve into the most common maintenance issues and explain how to solve them.

Maintenance must do’s

Cleaning and storage

Properly maintaining a spreader-sprayer starts with storage in the winter. If the

accounts manager, Z Turf Equipment.

“Improper storage affects spreadersprayers in a number of ways that are both seen and unseen,” Walters says. “It’s easy to see the expedited weathering improper storage creates on the surface of the machine, but failing to prepare the spray system, for example, can cause damage to vital components that are very expensive to replace.”

To ensure the machine will start at the beginning of the season, Middleton recommends treating the gas before storing the machine.

Z Turf Equipment

machine is not properly maintained, cleaned and prepared for winter, maintenance issues may start to pile up like the snow outside.

“Preseason maintenance actually starts at the end of your last season,” Quinlisk says. “A common mistake that we see is customers not properly cleaning their machines out and cleaning all of the product off of them. This leads to multiple issues from corrosion to issues with the spray pumps and other components not working properly.”

For example, water in the spray system can freeze and damage components, leaving old fuel in the machine can lead to poor engine or carburetor performance and leaks caused by old, cracking hoses, or belt wear and/or breakage can occur simply because of weathering and the age of the parts, says Andy Walters, national

“Ethanol is brutal to carburetor,” says Brian Middleton, technical manager for PermaGreen. “You can use a fuel stabilizer or for the engineered fuels that are out there. There’s not ethanol in them, so you can put that in during wintertime, put the machine away, and odds are that it will start in the spring.”

Quinlisk adds that machines should be stored in a dry place to prevent water from damaging the components.

Finally, Walters says lawn care operators should take note of any rust or corrosion that may have occurred during storage.

“Corrosion on the frame or components is typically an indicator that the machine wasn’t cleaned sufficiently prior to storage,” Walters says.

Flush the machine

Walters notes that most machines need to be cleaned and flushed thoroughly to remove any liquid or granular material from not just from the spread and spray systems, but also from the machine itself. Typically, an antifreeze is also added to

the spray system to ensure no damage occurs to the spray system and its components due to freeze-thaw cycles.

“A lot of chemicals go through these tanks, and you need to make sure you’re getting that old material out of them,” Middleton says. “If you don’t flush out those chemicals, they can get stuck in the lines of the machine, and you certainly don’t want to go out and start doing customers’ properties with partially clogged lines.”

Walters adds that the service manual typically details the proper procedures for storing machines in the off-season and preparing them for use after storage.

Check tire pressure

Insufficient tire pressure can dramatically affect the tracking, handling and stability of a spreader-sprayer in operation, Walters says.

Middleton recommends checking the tire pressure before storage and after storage.

“If you top off your tire pressure in the winter, when spring comes, if your tires are down in pressure, that’s something you want to address immediately,” Middleton says. “If you’re off by a pound, that’s OK, but if you see a drastic difference, you might need to get it looked at now before it fails midseason.”

Change the oil

Since oil is the lifeblood of your engine and drive system, operators should change the engine and transmission oil at the start of the season.

When changing the oil, Middleton recommends running the machine for a few minutes beforehand so the engine is warmer and the oil is thinner.

“Change the oil when it’s warm, pull the drain plug and everything is going to come out,” Middleton says.

Check for leaks

To check for leaks, Quinlisk recommends filling the spray system with some water and trying to build pressure.

“Once pressure is established, bump it up to max pressure and see if you have any leaks anywhere,” Quinlisk says.

It’s essential to check the tire pressure on spreader-sprayers before and after storage.

PermaGreen

Middleton says leaks can also be identified during storage by putting a piece of cardboard underneath the machine.

Take an inventory of the machine

Middleton also recommends taking an inventory of the machine to determine what may be needed for the summer months.

“If you don’t have an extra belt or something on hand, and the machine goes down, every day that machine is down is money lost,” Middleton says. “So, it’s essential in preseason to say, ‘hey, what could go wrong with this machine this season?’ In this day and age, parts could be on backorder, so having extra parts on hand is not a bad idea. In the Amazon world we live in, people think they’ll have the part tomorrow. However, if they order from us, they could, because we stock all our own parts.”

Inspect and replace components

To ensure engine performance and longevity, Walters suggests checking the air filter and replacing if needed.

It’s also important to check the tightness of all bolts and fasteners, as well as the axle bolts, at the start of the season.

“Properly torqued fasteners are not only essential to the performance and durability of the spreader-sprayer, they’re also incredibly important to ensure the safety of the machine in operation,” says Walters.

Test the brakes and switches

With hundreds of pounds of product and an operator, the spreader-sprayer can be

heavy, and brake functionality is key. Middleton recommends testing the brakes when the machine is full because that would represent a real-life situation. Also, operators should be sure that the machines start only in neutral and that on/off switches work properly, he says.

Lubricate cables

Middleton suggests lubricating cables regularly—rather than waiting for one to fail.

Top tips

Safety

When performing maintenance items, safety is key. The operators should always wear appropriate eye, ear, hand and overall personal protective equipment.

According to the experts, other safety tips include:

• Park the machine on level ground.

• Turn off the spray system and close the spreader gate.

• Set the parking brake, stop the engine and remove the key.

• Let the machine cool fully, then disconnect the spark plug wire and the battery, negative terminal first.

• Relieve any pressure on the spray system prior to maintenance.

• Never let untrained personnel service a spreader-sprayer.

• Always disconnect the battery if you are working on the electrical system.

Keep track of maintenance

Having a maintenance log can go a long way in helping operators understand their machines’ overall condition.

“The most common mistake we commonly see is failing to maintain the machines according to their recommended maintenance schedules,” Walters says. “In fact, the single best thing a landscape professional can do to ensure the performance and longevity of their spreader-sprayer is to download the service manual and maintenance schedule for their specific machine(s) and stay on top of recommended maintenance with a maintenance log.”

MOWING & MAINTENANCE

BY SARAH WEBB

Mulching can provide a nice contrast to existing landscape features and enhance the aesthetics of a property.

MULCHING MANIA

Landscape professionals explain the why behind mulching and lay out best practices.

Benjamin Farrer, owner of Lawns Etc., in Lafayette, Indiana., and Ryan Miller, operations manager, maintenance division for Hidden Creek Landscaping in Hilliard, Ohio, provide insight on mulching best practices.

Why mulch

When it comes to educating clients about why mulching is so important, Miller says there are a few reasons.

“One of the reasons is aesthetics—it looks nice and provides a nice contrast to the landscape,” Miller says.

Another reason is weed suppression, Miller says, adding that there will be a difference in weed growth in mulched beds versus unmulched beds.

“We put down a preemergence granular prior to any bulbs going down,”

Miller says. “It creates a barrier between the surface of the ground and the mulch that’s going to be put on top of it to mitigate the amount of weed seeds that will germinate. The mulch is what helps enable that chemical to do its job and mitigate as much weed growth as possible.”

Finally, the mulch also adds another layer of insulation to keep soil moist during the hotter and drier months.

“It keeps moisture in the soil and helps water to get into the plant material and not dry out so quickly,” Miller says.

Timing

Lawns Etc. provides mulching as an add-on service to spring cleanups and performs the services in March.

“We touch base with our customers to set it up—I like to do mulching

before regular maintenance and mowing starts,” Farrer says.

Hidden Creek Landscaping also does its best to perform mulching services earlier in the season, weather permitting, and it highly encourages customers to sign up for mulching services as part of its annual maintenance package.

“We also want to make sure that we’re making the best decisions for our clientele, so they have an effective mulching for the entire season,” Miller says. “If we put it down in January, by June it would be completely faded or washed out by torrential rains, and if we put it down in July, half the year would be done.”

Miller adds that the past few years, the winters have been mild, allowing the company to start mulching operations as early as late February.

Lawns Etc.

www.ebay.com/heavyequipment

MOWING & MAINTENANCE

“If we have 60-degree days in February, we use that to our advantage, so that when we do have those rain days or those rain weeks in March and April, it doesn’t put us back so far to where we have to wait until June or July to finish mulching,” Miller says.

Top tips

Right materials

To increase efficiency, Lawns Etc. partners with a local mulch company that delivers directly to the jobsite.

“When I do a mulch job, I tell them how much I need and at what address, and they literally dump it, and we install it,” Farrer says. “It made a lot of sense rather than trying to hold it all ourselves and wasting time going to and from where the mulch is located. It also makes it cleaner for us.”

Farrer adds that customers were willing to pay for the upcharge of having the mulch delivered directly to the site.

Right tools

Incorporating the right tools into the operation is also key, Farrer says.

“Tools are the No. 1 thing as far as efficiency goes,” Farrer says. “We’ve used pitchforks and wheelbarrows as we do all mulch by hand. There is equipment like Mulch Mates that help, or some companies use mulch blowers.”

Hidden Creek Landscaping uses Mulch Mates to help mitigate crews from having to shovel every single scoop of mulch into a wheelbarrow, saving on labor and decreasing fatigue among staff. The company also uses larger wheelbarrows to increase the load of mulch per trip and uses other pieces of equipment like a mower-mounted wheelbarrow to help move loads of mulch faster and easier.

When mulching in ornamental beds, landscape crews should ensure that no mulch debris is left behind or covering the ornamental plants. Lawns Etc.

From there, if a bed includes a lot of ground cover or plant material, crews will throw mulch by hand, but if it’s a wide-open bed, crews will dump the mulch into piles and spread it with rakes.

“It’s really what’s most efficient and practical for the property we’re on,” Miller says.

Quality work

To be sure the mulch is installed properly, Lawns Etc. also sweeps beds and cuts down old materials such as ornamental grasses before laying down mulch.

“That gives you a nice, clean slate to work from,” Farrer says.

Hidden Creek Landscaping also aims to provide the highest level of quality when it comes to mulching services.

“We’re looking for a nice even layer of mulch. We’re looking down to the crowns of the plants, the perennials that are starting to poke through, and seeing if there is any mulch in those leaves,” Miller says. “Do landscape lights need to be cleaned off? Is there a stone wall that has leftover mulch on it? The ultimate goal is for us to be in and out of a property with no evidence we were there except for the exact thing we were there to accomplish.”

Don’t overmulch

Landscapers should be aware that more mulch is not always better and should also be very cautious about how much mulch is put around the crown, stem or trunk of a plant.

“The industry standard for a lot of years was 2 to 3 inches of mulch throughout the entire mulch bed, but as more

science comes out, if we have a mulch bed full of plant material, we try to avoid more than 1 to 1.5 inches of mulch, especially around the crown or root flare of that tree trunk.”

When trees are buried in mulch, otherwise known as “volcano trees,” it impacts its ability to survive.

“Long term, it could invite the potential for disease, and it can just essentially suffocate that plant,” Miller says.

Safety matters

To ensure crews are safe, Hidden Creek Landscaping meets every morning or previous evening to determine a game plan and equips crews with various tools to perform the work safely.

“It might be cones, or it might be flashing lights or another vehicle behind (the vehicle),” Miller says. “It might be somebody else is directing some traffic for a little while until the crew is done with that specific area. We also look at a map to see where we can park effectively to make sure we stay off of busy roads but still get our job done.”

The company also outfits crews with high-visibility uniforms.

Finally, it educates crews on hydration, proper fueling and heat stress and stocks each truck with coolers and ice.

“Mulching is not easy. It is a physically demanding part of the landscape industry,” Miller says. “It’s (about) providing them with the tools and the equipment in the field, but also giving them the education in the back end so they can make decisions for their own personal safety.”

BEST-SELLING MOWER BLADES

– MADE IN THE USA

Rotary manufactures over 12 million mower and edger blades annually at its world class facility in Georgia using premium-grade American steel that is heat treated and tempered for uniform hardness then formed, balanced and precision-sharpened for a cleaner, finer cut.

Rotary has the industry’s widest assortment of professionalgrade mower blades including Copperhead brand flat, high-lift, low-lift and mulching models. The choice of landscape professionals, Copperhead blades are engineered to perform better, last longer and cut with powerful force.

Copperhead mulching blades require less power to drive the blade while reducing vibration to prevent pre-mature engine wear. The airlift design increases particle retention under the deck for improved mulching and uniform distribution. Available for practically any brand, Rotary blades exceed all OEM standards for operation and are ISO certified to ensure exceptional quality.

With over 55 years of manufacturing experience, Rotary’s Copperhead blades are sold in all 50 states and 75 countries around the globe. The company also manufactures air filters and trimmer line at its facilities in Georgia and Arizona.

World’s Largest Supplier of Outdoor Power Equipment Parts

From minor mower repairs to complete engine overhauls, Rotary has the replacement parts it takes to get the job done. Founded in 1957, Rotary offers over 10,000 guaranteed quality outdoor power equipment parts for mowers, trimmers, chain saws, brush cutters, pressure washers, snow blowers, garden tillers and much more.

Backed by an exclusive warranty that ensures quality and performance, Rotary’s Copperhead brand features mower blades, trimmer line and chain saw bars and chain that are available from dealers nationwide.

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Rotary has built one of the industry’s most advanced distribution networks. Most orders are processed and shipped the same day, ensuring next day delivery to nearly 85% of its customers in the continental U.S. from seven distribution centers located from coast-to-coast

BY SARAH WEBB

WHAT’S TRENDING IN 2025: Hardscapes and Lighting

Hardscapes and lighting experts lay out the top trends of 2025.

Hardscape and lighting experts dig into what’s on the horizon for design and lighting in 2025.

Hardscapes

➊ Classic design style

While minimalism remains a popular trend, the industry is seeing a shift back to a classic style, says Joe Raboine, vice president of design, Oldcastle APG.

“Mixed materials and warm colors such as beige and sepia are reemerging and lend themselves to a more traditional aesthetic,” Raboine says.

Robert Bowers, P. Eng., vice president of engineering, hardscapes, at the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association, agrees that lighter earth tones are reappearing in the industry.

“I’m not seeing any of the bright reds, blues, yellows or greens as in the past,” Bowers says. “It’s a cleaner appearance to the materials.”

➋ Multifunctional spaces

With the current economic conditions, consumers are a bit more budget-conscious than in recent years and are looking for value-added features and ways to maximize their space with multifunctional elements.

“In every metro area across the country, property sizes are smaller than before,” Raboine says. “With this trend, homeowners are looking to get the most out of their small spaces and available budget with modular components that serve multiple purposes, such as a patio with a built-in seat wall and planters.”

Also, due to the smaller property footprints, homeowners are looking for aesthetically pleasing ways to incorporate privacy from neighbors or their surroundings, Raboine says.

“Decorative screen panels, pergolas, plantings and other structures add an element of both beauty and functionality,” Raboine says. “Sound gardens and water features add audible privacy from neighbors or street traffic.”

Health and wellness have risen to a top five focus for consumers in some markets as people prioritize self-care, according to Raboine.

“Americans are looking to be balanced and in harmony with the environment and appreciate native plants and sustainable materials, such as permeable pavers,” Raboine says. “Gardening remains a popular hobby, and enthusiasts can incorporate raised garden beds or planters in their outdoor spaces.”

Finally, as outdoor spaces are a musthave for homeowners, they should be

convenient to access and offer the same amenities as the home’s indoor space, Raboine says.

He notes that homeowners are looking for their outdoor space to transition easily from the house to the built environment and offer the same modern conveniences of lighting, eating, Wi-Fi, quality furnishing and accessories.

➌ Straight lines

Bowers says in the last few years, he’s noticed a movement toward straighter lines and smoother products.

“They’re moving away from splitfaced, distressed or tumbled products for pavers and walls and moving toward straighter, crisp lines for surfaces and materials,” Bowers says.

He notes, however, that this creates the potential challenge of fall hazards.

Clients prefer to incorporate valueadded features such as fire pits to their outdoor spaces.

Oldcastle APG

Mixed materials and warm colors such as beige and sepia represent a more traditional aesthetic.

Oldcastle APG

“When you make pavers ultrasmooth and reduce the chamfer and joint spacing, you reduce the friction,” Bowers says. “So, the designers are getting the smooth products they want, but it becomes a concern about the reduced friction and potential slip hazards on those products.”

➍ Large format materials

Large format materials, such as bigger concrete slabs or pavements, have also gained interest, according to Bowers.

Bowers notes that this also has the added benefit of more efficient installation for the contractor, especially as recruiting quality employees remains a top concern for contractors.

Lighting

➊ App-controlled lighting

Lighting systems that integrate with smart home platforms, offering advanced scheduling, dimming and scene-setting capabilities, are reshaping outdoor lighting experiences, says Ryan Williams, director of product marketing for FX Luminaire.

“The smart home movement has created an expectation for outdoor lighting to be as intelligent and user-friendly as indoor systems, giving homeowners more control over their lighting,” Williams says.

Todd Goers, director of sales for WAC Lighting, says this trend has evolved for a few reasons.

“One reason is people want something their neighbors don’t have, but beyond that, safety and security are a big thing,” Goers says. “People want to have their lights on longer over certain portions of their yard, or they may be worried about their home being broken into. Others just want that control of some lights turning off, but they want to keep certain ones on.”

➋ Customized lighting

Going hand in hand with controlling lighting is the idea of incorporating RGBW systems to create dynamic, customizable outdoor environments for holidays, events or mood settings.

prefer fixtures

“People aren’t just happy with their lights going on a six o’ clock and going off at midnight,” Goers says.

Driven by the desire for personalization and versatility, this trend forces lighting contractors to think about proper programming and control system capability and may require extra setup and time. Contractors must also educate clients on how to maximize the system’s features, according to Williams.

In addition to changing the color of the lighting, Goers says he’s noticed customers asking to mix and match the color temperature of the lighting.

“People are moving away from the notion that everything has to be the same,” Goers says. “There may be three or four different shades of white throughout the property, but properties that do this well are really impressive.”

➌ Limiting light pollution

Williams notes that lighting solutions designed to reduce light pollution by directing light downward and minimizing light spill are becoming increasingly embraced within the industry.

“With growing awareness of light pollution’s environmental impact, municipalities, contractors and homeowners are embracing solutions that preserve the natural night sky while still delivering beautiful lighting,” Williams says.

He cautions that achieving the desired lighting effect while meeting dark-sky guidelines can be tricky because it often requires precise fixture placement and careful consideration of beam angles.

➍ Sleek design

Fixtures with sleek, low-profile designs that blend seamlessly into modern landscapes are lighting up in popularity.

“Contemporary architectural trends, which favor clean lines and understated aesthetics, inspire the demand for fixtures that blend into the landscape while delivering powerful lighting effects,” Williams says. “While these fixtures are sleek and stylish, they can be more challenging to install in retrofits or existing systems due to size constraints and wiring requirements.”

Goers says he’s noticed more customers favoring the color black for fixtures rather than a traditional bronze.

Many customers

with sleek, low-profile designs that blend seamlessly into modern landscapes.

FX Luminaire

Systems with RGBW colors allow homeowners to create dynamic, customizable outdoor environments for holidays, events or mood settings. FX Luminaire

Clean, sleek lines have become prevalent in designs.

Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association

BY SARAH WEBB

BY WEBB

Blank Slate to REVITALIZED RETREAT

What started out as a blank slate with rough landscaping evolved into a blossoming oasis complete with an outdoor kitchen, a covered pergola with steps that descended into a fire pit area and more. Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals, a primarily residential landscape design firm headquartered in Sioux Falls, S.D., headed the transformation.

“We decided to completely redo the front landscaping that was deteriorating. I wanted to have some curb appeal,” says Chad Kasten, senior landscape designer at Weller Brothers. “(The client) wanted the front to look nice as well.”

When the client also decided to include a swimming pool and detached garage/ living quarters off of the back of the house, Weller Brothers came in and added landscaping elements around that as well.

“They wanted to have a space that they could enjoy with family, so they added a swimming pool with more lounger spaces and usable space,” says Kasten.

The backyard included a downward slope, measuring at a 7- to 8-foot drop from one side to the other, so Weller Brothers terraced the property, using multiple sequences of walls heading down the hill. To construct the retaining walls, crews used a skid loader, larger excavators and telehandlers.

“In order to build the terrace wall, since the stone is so heavy, we actually used

telehandlers to lift the stone up to the second tier around the swimming pool,” Kasten says.

The company positioned the grilling station/outdoor kitchen one step down from the deck, so that the homeowners could grill and bring food directly out from the kitchen area. Keeping the client’s comfort in mind, Weller Brothers also added a pergola for shade over a dining area that steps down to the fire pit space.

To seamlessly tie each portion together, the company installed artificial turf inlays on the patio, pool and front walkway.

“We wanted to make sure that when people enter the house, they see the aesthetics of the front, and then when they get to the backyard, it didn’t look like two separate projects at all,” Kasten says. “It all meshed, even though it was on completely different sides of the house.”

Throughout the project, between four and five crew members worked on-site. Phase one, including the kitchen, pergola area and fire pit, took about five to six weeks, and phase two, involving the pool landscaping and retaining walls, took about seven to eight months.

“That was primarily due to the fact that we got the pool installed late into the fall and started building the walls late into the fall season and into the winter,” Kasten says. “Our pool contractor came in, dug and worked on the pool over the winter, and then we came back in the spring and

finished the landscaping around the pool and the front landscaping.”

One challenge, Kasten says, included working with the different tiers of the yard and making sure those matched properly, all the way from the deck to the pool. Access to the backyard and coordinating with subcontractors, including the pool contractor, concrete contractor, electrical company, electricians and plumbers, posed other challenges.

“We needed to make sure that we were conscientious of the neighbor’s property,” Kasten says. “Making sure that we stayed on a decent timeframe as well as working with schedules of the other contractors and making sure all of our quantities of materials were accurate were probably the main difficulties.”

To stay ahead of challenges, Kasten advocates for open lines of communication.

“Projects always go much better when you have constant communication with the clients so they’re assured that everything is going smoothly,” Kasten says. “You’re giving adequate timeframes for contractors. You’re giving them a headsup, making sure they’re all on board and know exactly what’s going on. We had multiple site meetings with all of the contractors to make sure everybody knew what portions of the project they were taking on and when it would be ready for them.”

Sunseeker X Series WireFree Robotic Mower

Sunseeker’s X Series Wire-Free Robotic Mower is designed to meet the specific needs of the U.S. market and is part of a broader range that includes the X7, X7 Plus, X7 Pro, X5 and X3 Plus models. Designed for flexibility, the X Series features an all-wheel drive system that allows models like the X7 to manage slopes up to 70% (35-degree) and the X5 to handle 60% (30-degree) inclines. The floating cutting design ensures even mowing across dense grass and uneven terrains, further enhancing performance. The team introduced the AONavi Positioning and Navigation System, which integrates real-time kinematic satellite positioning and VSLAM visual navigation, helping the mowers navigate complex lawns more accurately, even in environments with obstacles or irregular shapes. The Vision AI System, using a 3D binocular camera, enhances the mower.

https://gpros.co/w31daz6v

Bobcat Co. Machine IQ Remote Engine Disable/Enable Function

Bobcat Co.’s Machine IQ Remote Engine Disable/ Enable technology will now function with additional products in its lineup. Originally announced in June 2024 on select compact track loaders and skid-steer loaders, the technology can now be additionally used for select Bobcat compact excavator, compact wheel loader and Toolcat utility work machine models. Equipment owners for models that do not have telematics hardware factory installed can purchase an aftermarket kit through their local dealer. The Remote Engine Disable/Enable feature allows customer users in North America and Europe to remotely disable and reenable their machine’s engine through the Owner Portal or Machine IQ app. With Remote Engine Disable/Enable, owners and operators can disable their equipment’s engine with a few clicks, deterring theft and aiding in quick machine recovery. This feature is also valuable for rental businesses, enabling dealer owners to remotely stop equipment if rental agreement terms are not met. If unauthorized use is suspected, owners can log into their Bobcat Owner Portal or Machine IQ app to pinpoint the location of their equipment and choose to disable the engine. Upon executing the disable command, any attempt to start an engine in an off state will fail. If the machine is in operation, the engine will shift into derate mode.

https://gpros.co/8xx6axsp

Scythe

M.52 Fleet Management Platform and Mobile App

Scythe Robotics introduced a pair of digital products that will provide landscape contractors with more detailed information on the performance and productivity of their M.52 mower fleets: the M.52 Fleet Management Platform and Scythe Mobile App. The M.52 fleet management platform and Scythe mobile app are valuable tools allowing contractors to dive deeper into mower performance data, identify ways to receive maximum ROI from M.52 and truly understand their mowing costs. This comprehensive web application is designed to help company administrators efficiently manage their M.52 fleet. This platform provides detailed insights into M.52 usage as well as real-time reporting capabilities. The program also monitors the health and location of each unit, tracks specific M.52 jobs, manages properties and Mow Zones and handles user permissions all in one place.

https://gpros.co/25270qzf

Milwaukee Tool Women’s Workwear Apparel

Milwaukee Tool added to its workwear portfolio with women’s jobsite apparel. A part of the workwear collections, GridIron, FreeFlex and WorkSkin, these solutions are dedicated to solving frustrations in comfort, movement and protection from the elements. This initial expansion for women’s workwear includes additions to the GridIron and FreeFlex collections with future plans to expand the WorkSkin collection. Part of the GridIron Collection, the Women’s Short Sleeve Pocket Tee and Women’s Short Sleeve Logo Tee are built to survive and engineered for broken-in comfort. The Women’s FreeFlex Midweight Pullover Hoodie is designed to layer comfortably. The FreeFlex Pullover Hoodie provides season versatility and features reinforced pockets for secure storage, a three-panel hood for superior fit and protection and forward shoulder construction for enhanced mobility and comfort. The Women’s Double Knee Jogger Pants are designed for extended life in rugged conditions. The high-rise straight fit, built-in stretch and waistband integrated with elastic provide a comfortable fit and freedom to move while working. The Women’s Work Pants are built from a tear-and-abrasion-resistant fabric that provides broken-in comfort right off the shelf.

https://gpros.co/9gkg82uq

Oregon Tool TerraMax Trimmer Line

Oregon Tool’s TerraMax trimmer line is designed to last longer in harsh terrain. TerraMax is made with a high-grade copolymer blended for added strength and stiffness, making it ideally suited to cut through dense and robust vegetation with ease. In tests, this new line performed better, had less line flutter and more stable and faster cutting. When it’s time to replace the line, TerraMax’s extended pitch and helical shape results in an aerodynamic design that makes it easier to feed into bump feed heads and resists welding and gluing in head spools. In addition, TerraMax was developed to be more resistant to abrasion and experienced less line loss for those times when concrete and rock can’t be avoided. The co-extruded line provides that extra durability that harsh conditions demand. TerraMax trimmer line is available for order and delivery immediately.

https://gpros.co/3uxpdluf

OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT PARTS, TOOLS & ACCESSORIES

Toro e3300 Out-Front Rotary Mower

Toro’s Groundsmaster e3300, a batterypowered option of the popular out-front rotary mower, features the same rugged chassis, commercial-grade mowing deck and intuitive operator controls as the current diesel-powered platform. The Groundsmaster e3300 is powered by HyperCell batteries, Toro’s proprietary, patent-pending lithium-ion technology. Toro has implemented rigorous standards that require every battery to pass extensive environmental and third-party certification testing. The distributed battery management system (BMS) optimizes battery performance to enhance productivity and longevity. Because the BMS is integrated, HyperCell batteries communicate with each other to optimize efficiency and extend the life cycle, well beyond the 5,000-hour design life of the traction unit. HyperCell batteries provide diagnostic information to simplify and streamline any service needs. A third-party recycling program is available for batteries that reach end of life. The Groundsmaster e3300 can be configured with up to 17 HyperCell batteries for extended run time in the most demanding conditions. Smart Power mode optimizes power consumption by continuously and efficiently providing ample cutting power without bogging the machine down. Additionally, a battery reserve setting ensures plenty of power to return the mower to the recharging station. Equipped with an Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment-ready 3.3 kW on-board charger, operators can simply plug in the Groundsmaster e3300 overnight so it’s ready for operation the next day. The Groundsmaster e3300 comes standard with Toro’s InfoCenter display with battery charge status, hours, alerts, customizable settings and more. It also features the same impact bumpers and rugged 60-inch high-strength steel side or rear discharge mowing deck options as the popular diesel-powered Groundsmaster models.

https://gpros.co/dbz6tpxz

Greenworks Commercial’s 60V 24-Inch Cordless Battery

Two-Stage Snow Blower has a 24-inch clearing width and 20-inch clearing depth, and it handles snowfalls up to 18 inches. Its 200-degree rotating chute ensures snow is directed up to 50 feet for ultimate control. Additional features include:

• Intelligent brushless motor technology for more power, quieter operation and longer run times

• Self-propelled system with power steering for effortless control

• Ability to clear up to an 18-car driveway per charge

• Fast 96-minute charging time

https://gpros.co/7dc1xcdg

 Rotary Master and Winter Catalogs

Scraper bars, tires, tubes, paddles, shave plates, skids, carburetor kits, fuel lines and heavy-duty Aramid fiber belts are among hundreds of snow blower parts and accessories listed in Rotary’s new 2025 master catalog. A special 70-page section includes a wide range of items such as jump starters, slush plows, overhaul kits, shafts, bearings, drive discs, auger and axle bearings, air vanes, ignition sets and cables. More than 750 items are featured for most brands including AYP, Bolens, Gilson, Honda, Husqvarna, Jacobsen, MTD, Murray, Tecumseh, Noma, Snapper, Simplicity and Toro. Rotary offers a variety of Genius Boost portable jump starters that deliver up to 3,000 amps for starting a dead battery in seconds. Available in five different models, the starter pack features a patented safety technology that provides spark-proof connections and reverse polarity protection, making it safe and easy to use. A powerful battery booster, it also doubles as a source for recharging USB devices or powering 12-volt equipment. Over 30 different MaxTrac tire chains and TerraGrip traction belts are available from Rotary in a variety of sizes to fit most tires. Belts include an innovative traction aid that helps prevent steel from touching the driving surface. Multi-ply rubber slats surrounding the tire tread provide a secure fit for most improved traction. TerraGrip belts are easily installed with no tools required. In addition to the master catalog, Rotary has a special winter parts catalog with the latest seasonal parts and accessories such as Slush Plow attachments and SnoStik snow blower discharge cleaners plus fuel additives, stabilizers, oil and grease. Both catalogs are free for servicing dealers and distributors.

https://gpros.co/ivg3n6at

BY SARAH WEBB

JUSTIN STULTZ

Owner, Wildflower Lawn Care, Hutto, Texas

GIP: Tell me about your company.

Justin Stultz: I service mostly Williamson County (in Texas). I have two commercial clients right now, and I have about 45 residential customers in peak season. I do lawn maintenance, light landscaping like small rock beds and light tree trimming, pest services and herbicide services. I founded in June 2020.

GIP: Why did you get into the industry?

Stultz: In one of my first business classes in college, one of my professors encouraged students to go through the process of starting a business by registering a business name, establishing your tax ID number, etc. The goal was that it had to benefit society at large. I took the lawn care business I had already started and decided my benefit to society was that I could make people’s yards look nice, but my professor wasn’t having it. She said it had to be on a larger scale. So, I tweaked it over the course of the semester and started offering other items like xeriscaping. I was really surprised at how open people were to leaning on my expertise because I was relatively young and new in the industry. I liked that it let me be creative. After I graduated college, I gave up my part-time lawn business and moved to a different city. About four years ago, I was working at a pretty large insurance company. During the pandemic, we had to let people go. I didn’t really agree with that. That was the last straw for me in the middle of a pandemic, when we’re breaking sales records, that people were getting let go. It didn’t make me feel great about what I was doing. I started my lawn care business again, this time in a new city. Now, I split my time. Monday through Thursday, I work as a financial professional selling insurance and helping set up insurance retirement accounts for folks. As I have needed to dedicate more time to lawns, I have waned away from that.

GIP: What have been the highlights so far?

Stultz: When I got my first route set after a couple of weeks, I was really happy about that. I got my marketing materials together. My daughter—I call her my wildflower so I named the company after her—got to pick colors for the logo, and my wife helped me do the Wildflower Lawn Care website and create the marketing materials. The highlight has been being able to do things that I had done in the professional world but doing it for my own business and having control over that. Also, coming out of the pandemic, I was close to 250 pounds and in the worst shape of my life. I was concerned that getting back into lawn care at 39, I wouldn’t be able to do it, but by the end of

the first summer, I had lost 50 pounds. I felt better and was more physically active.

GIP: What were your challenges?

Stultz: During the pandemic, it was impossible to get someone to come work in a small truck with me. Even right now, that’s one of my biggest challenges, finding somebody who can handle the Texas summer when it’s triple digits. I try to make the pay incentive as much as possible. I have to contract folks occasionally when it gets really busy. 2025 will be my first season where I’m hoping to hire somebody on full time and still have a couple of contractors.

GIP: Do you have a favorite tool?

Stultz: I like LawnStarter.com because it lets me set up routes in specific places. Other than that, my favorite tool is my Stihl weed trimmer. Stihl just came out with a head that’s basically like a speed feed, where you load the line once every two to three days, and it stays full. I have a first-generation Scag push mower that’s 30 inches. I like driving around with it on the truck when it’s nice and clean. It saves me so much cutting time.

GIP: What could the industry use more of?

Stultz: I wish there was more pride in what we do. It’s easy for folks to get in by low balling prices, but I’m an advocate for the industry in the sense that there’s a reason that (clients) hire professionals to make their yard look nice.

GIP: Outside of work, what do you like to do?

Stultz: My wife and my kids are the biggest part of my life. I coach my kids’ soccer teams in soccer season. I’m a member of the Hutto Education Foundation. I really love doing my own yard and gardening, and I’m constantly experimenting with new stuff that I think could make my yard look nicer and therefore be able to provide something better for customers. My kids, seeing how much I love doing it, the bug bit them also because I look in my backyard, and they have their own garden. They pick their own plants. They love being outside. They love all the critters and bugs and stuff that come along with working outdoors.

Wildflower Lawn Care