Landscape Ontario - April 2015

April 2015 www.horttrades.com

CANADA BLOOMS

March festival tells the industry’s story by enchanting visitors — old and young

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S’ LOGO

SUMERS’ RS’ LOGO , Website edia, etc.)

ON LOGO

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Do you have your goals in writing?

By Dave Braun LO president

I

was asked a question in a business seminar that I attended about having the company’s goals in writing. I was embarrassed to be in the minority with those who hadn’t earned the right to raise a hand in positive response to the question.

Writing your goals down on paper is a funny thing; everyone knows they should do it, but so few of us do.

It’s like eating right or exercising. Goal setting isn’t that hard to do, but it’s a lot easier NOT to do it.

So what happens when we write down a goal on paper? What’s so special about actually writing it down that has so many educated and knowledgeable people excited about its power?

Goal setting involves the development of an action plan that is designed to motivate and guide a person or group toward a goal. One of the most successful business owners I know within our industry swears by writing down goals. He has made the prac-

April, 2015 • Volume 33, No. 4 horttrades.com Landscape Ontario’s mandate is to be the leader in representing, promoting and fostering a favourable environment for the advancement of the horticultural industry in Ontario.

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tice a standard throughout his life. It’s important to mention that he wrote down his goals long before he created a big business.

A more famous example of the benefit of written goals involves Jim Carrey, who famously wrote himself a cheque for $10 million and post-dated it for a time in the future. At the time, this financial windfall seemed like a pipedream, but Jim carried this $10 million cheque in his wallet for over a decade.

It could be a coincidence that right around the time Jim had dated his cheque for cashing, that he received $10 million for a movie deal. Instead, it appears that the financial rewards came through the focus of Jim’s written vision and the steps that he took after making that commitment to himself.

Research at the Dominican University of California in 2007 showed a direct and substantial link between setting goals and future success.

Five groups of people were asked to approach goal setting in different ways, with the intention of learning about the effectiveness of different approaches to achieving goals. Group one was asked to simply think about the goal that they would like to achieve over the course of

Publisher Lee Ann Knudsen CLP lak@landscapeontario.com, 416-848-7557 Editorial director Sarah Willis sarahw@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5424 Editor Allan Dennis adennis@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5345 Graphic designer Mike Wasilewski mikew@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5343 Sales manager Steve Moyer stevemoyer@landscapeontario.com, 416-848-0708 Integrated solutions representative Greg Sumsion gsumsion@landscapeontario.com, 647-722-6977 Communications coordinator Angela Lindsay alindsay@landscapeontario.com, 647-723-5305 Accountant Joe Sabatino jsabatino@landscapeontario.com, 647-724-8585 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO STAFF Shawna Barrett, Darryl Bond, Kim Burton, Myscha Burton, Tony DiGiovanni CHT, Rob Ellidge, Denis Flanagan CLD, Sally Harvey CLT CLP, Jane Leworthy, Heather MacRae, Allie McInnes, Kristen McIntyre CHT CEM, Kathy McLean, Linda Nodello, Kathleen Pugliese, Ian Service, Tom Somerville, Martha Walsh

Views expressed are those of the writer concerned. Landscape Ontario assumes no responsibility for the validity or correctness of any opinions or references made by the author. Copyright 2015, reproduction or the use of whole or any part of the contents without written permission is prohibited. Published 12x per year. Rates and deadlines are available on request. Subscription price: $43.51 per year (HST included). For subscription and address changes, please e-mail subscriptions@landscapeontario.com

one month and to reflect on the importance of that goal. Group five was asked to write down their goals, reflect on their importance, write action steps, send their commitments to a supportive friend and report their progress weekly to their supportive friend. When the data was analyzed, group five had achieved 78 per cent more than group one did.

The value of setting goals is a relatively new practice. More recent studies were influenced by the work of Edwin A. Locke, who began to examine goal setting in the mid-1960s and continued to research the subject for over 30 years. Locke’s results clearly demonstrate that setting specific goals (I want to earn $500 more a month) generates higher levels of performance than setting general goals (I want to earn more money), and that goals that are hard to achieve are linearly and positively connected to performance. The harder the goal, the more a person will work to reach it. Not only should we write our goals down, but there is a lot to be said for dreaming big and mapping that dream.

At the time of the business seminar when the question was asked, “Do you have written goals?” I couldn’t raise my hand to say I had. Since that day, we have mapped out a strategic plan for our company and we immediately felt the positive shift that comes with having concrete goals.

No matter how small or how huge our goals seem, one thing is certain, it pays to write them down. Jim Carrey agrees.

Dave Braun may be reached at dbraun@landscapeontario.com.

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FEATURES CANADA BLOOMS AWARDS VOLUNTEERS BEST WAY STONE THRIVE’15

ASSOCIATION NEWS SCHOLARSHIP PROFILE EVENTS NEW MEMBERS Industry NEWS COLUMNS Ad Index Classifieds

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The Landscape Ontario Otium garden captured the theme of Let’s Play at Canada Blooms.

Gardens at Canada Blooms provide wow factor Gardens at this year’s Canada Blooms achieved the wow factor and then some, for those looking to escape the final days on a long and cold winter.

This year’s event, with the theme, Let’s Play, had a new location inside the Direct Energy Centre, from Mar. 13 to 22, which gave the show a different look this year.

Some big changes that the new location brought were lighting and a lower ceiling.

The hall also has no underground garage beneath, removing weight restriction for garden builders.

As of this printing attendance numbers were not available, but show manager Terry Caddo said he felt the number was about the same as last year. Attendance was slow opening weekend, but picked up as the week moved along.

Most news reports and blogs reflected well on the show, such as Canadian Gardening magazine’s comment, “The largerthan-life garden designs on display at

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Canada Blooms are The LO Surf and Turf garden was a great attraction for children who enjoyed running along the wave design. not to be missed (and how could they). From a giant time clock/living wall almost an acre and it would cost more than (designed by Near North Landscape) to $8 million.” a whimsical troll in an enchanted garden The Landscape Ontario Otium Out(designed by Vandermeer Nursery and door Exercise Garden drew a great deal of Earth Art Landscapes), there’s lots to disattention with its basketball hoop, punching cover.” bag and climbing wall. It definitely captured Helen Battersby of Toronto Gardens, this year’s playful theme. wrote, “Maybe it’s the Let’s Play theme at The Landscape Ontario garden, comCanada Blooms 2015, but I found myself plete with the exercise components, has wishing I were a kid again. Some garbeen re-constructed in St. James Town in den writers might give me a hard time for Toronto. Shawn Gallaugher, who designed even daring to think of applying the word the Otium Garden, says there is a lack of “whimsy” to a garden, but many parts amenities in the neighbourhood. appealed to my inner child.”

In discussion with the community, GalMark Cullen wrote in his newspaper collaugher said he received some inspiring umn, ‘Every year exit surveys tell us that feedback by residents, which influenced the top reason that people come to Canada some aspects of the LO Otium garden.

Blooms is to see these gorgeous gardens.

Over 25,000 copies of Landscape And why not? If you were to have them Ontario’s Garden Inspiration magazine built in your own yard, you would need were handed out at Canada Blooms. The

popular magazine was directed towards consumers, showing various projects by LO’s nine chapters, Awards of Excellence winners, new plants and listings of member companies.

The Surf and Turf Garden, created by Landscape Ontario, Designs By The Yard, Allstone Quarry and Nursery Sod Growers, drew a great deal of interest. The display created rolling waves of turfgrass, which gave chidren lots of opportunity to ‘surf’ or roll down the waves. The garden was built to demonstrate some of the many benefits of turf, including water conservation.

On Mar. 20 nearly 20 wounded veterans from Sunnybrook Hospital were welcomed to Canada Blooms. Organized by Joe Genovese of Genoscape in Markham, the veterans enjoyed the tour of Blooms. He had heard from Sunnybrook that a group of veterans wanted to see the gardens and experience a bit of spring at Canada Blooms. Genovese said he was inspired to arrange for the veterans to visit Blooms.

Genoscape was one of the companies to create a garden at Blooms, which was voted the People’s Choice Award.

Some of the positive comments found on social media included, “What beautiful gardens and an interesting setting this year.

The new hall gave it more of a quiet, intimate feel (just what I am looking for in my back yard), and it felt more magical with all the lights in the gardens.”

“We had a fantastic time at Canada Blooms this year and are already planning our next year’s trip down. Loved all the flowers and the landscaping, and got tons of ideas for this year.”

It wasn’t just all gardens that attracted visitors to Canada Blooms. An impressive lineup of guest speakers, such as Mark Cullen, Denis Flanagan, Kent Ford, Theresa Forte, Miriam Goldberger, Paul Zammit, Jeff McMann, Tony Post and more, attracted many people to the Unilock Celebrity Stage.

At the end of the show, plants were donated to senior residents’ homes in Toronto. Both local media and politicians were on hand to take part in the presentations.

Next year Canada Blooms marks its 20th anniversary, from Mar. 11 to 20, at the Direct Energy Centre, with the theme It’s a Party.

Garden builders wanted

To improve plant selection, acquiring sponsors and engagement, garden builders need to apply by the end of April. David Turnbull, Canada Blooms Director of Horticulture, says next year’s show marks the 20th anniversary. “It will be bigger than ever.”

Those looking at building a garden at

The Genoscape garden received the People’s Choice Award.

Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds was one of the many gardens that supplied visitors to Canada Blooms with the wow factor. The dramatic tree house drew a great deal of attention.

the 2016 event should contact Turnbull, at 647-382-2474, by Apr. 30, notifying him of your intent.

Co-chair of Canada Blooms, Anna van Maris, of Parklane Nurseries in Beaverton, says she wishes more LO members would support Canada Blooms. “It’s really too bad more members don’t step up to build a garden at the show,” said van Maris.

She says that Canada Blooms has done more than any other event to help improve the industry. “Look where our industry was ten years ago compared to now. Canada Blooms has been a huge influence on consumers, showing them the importance of professionally-constructed gardens,” says van Maris.

She feels that with all members benefiting from the change, more members need to help with donations of plants, stone and equipment. “Improving Canada Blooms will

improve our industry,” says van Maris. van Maris reflects on her company’s involvement with Blooms since it began.

“We do receive referrals and have gained some clients each year from the show, but that’s not why I do the show.”

From a company perspective, she says Blooms provides a great opportunity for new people to work as a team before the season begins, along with a few good leads and great press coverage. “Of course we have a bit of fun in the process,” says van Maris. The main incentive for her is the opportunity to show the public what great gardens can be created by professionals.

“I do offer my most humble thank-you to all the great volunteers who helped at Canada Blooms this year. There is no other show that depends so much on our volunteers. It’s amazing.”

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Award winners took the stage at Industry Night, Mar. 19.

Feature garden winners at Canada Blooms 2015 Visitors to this year’s Canada Blooms saw some of the best designed and constructed gardens over the show’s past 19 years. It made for tough decisions among this year’s judges.

The final decisions were announced at the awards ceremony on Mar. 19, at the Unilock Celebrity Stage, during Industry Night.

Feature Garden Judges included Alistair Johnston, Strybos Barron King; Jeff McMann CHT, Mount Pleasant Group of Cemeteries; Martin Wade OALA, Martin Wade Landscape Architects; Arthur Skolnik, Shibui Landscaping; John Consolati, Consolati Consultants; Christine Gracey OALA, DA Gracey and Associates; Mark Cullen, Canada AM; Michael Prokopow PhD. Conveners were Ron Koudys OALA, CLD, Ron Koudys Landscape Architects and Kristen McIntyre CHT, Landscape Ontario.

The following results are the winning entries at Canada Blooms 2015.

University Pro Landscapers Paving, Pools & Spas • Best use of bulbs

Vandermeer Nursery and Earth Art Landscapes • Outstanding use of interior plants, presented by Jill Jensen Botanicals • Sheridan Nurseries Award for outstanding small size garden • Garden Club of Toronto Award for best overall use of colour

Jacobs Gardenscape • Outstanding use of innovative elements in a garden, presented by Floral Dimensions

Landscape Ontario, Designs By The Yard, Allstone Quarry and Nursery Sod Growers • Outstanding use of annuals and/or perennials, presented by Pick Ontario

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Genoscape •P erry Molema Award for outstanding use of water, presented by Aquascape •S .G. Ulbright Award for outstanding medium size garden • People’s Choice Award Landscapes By Lucin •O utstanding use of natural stone, presented by Beaver Valley Stone • W.E.

Bridgeman Award for best overall use of hard landscape elements

Elite Environments • Outstanding use of pre-cast pavers, presented by Permacon Egreen Design • Outstanding use of walkways Vaughan Landscaping and Jodi Liptrot • Outstanding outdoor living space

J. Garfield Thompson Landscape • Humber Nurseries Award for best overall use of plant material • Outstanding use of trees • Judges’ Choice Award

Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds • Leslie L. Solty Memorial Award for best overall creativity in garden design • Outstanding interpretation of the show theme, Let’s Play! Presented by Isuzu Parklane Nurseries • Gordon A. MacEachern Award for outstanding large size garden • Outstanding educational garden AquaSpa Pools and Landscape Design • Outstanding outdoor entertainment area Landscape Ontario and Shawn Gallaugher Design • Most imaginative garden design, presented by Niagara Escarpment Views • Best overall quality of workmanship Near North Hardscape • Outstanding use of artistic elements in a garden Royal Landscaping and Design • Outstanding use of lighting

Industry Night at Canada Blooms was a great opportunity for networking among industry members.

NATURAL STONE — ROCK FOR THE AGES

Stonehenge 3100 BC

www.botaggregates.ca WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 7

STUDENTS Amanda Armstrong, Elizabeth Birks, Laura Cascagnette, Diane Chesla, Alex Dela, Anina Frick, Sara Hopkins, Chadwick Huggett, Anzi Hui, Karen Keay, Stacey Kirkbride, Jessica Munroe, Ana Reim, Ricardo Terra, Toshio Ushioguchi-Pigoit

Surf and Turf Garden

As seen by the long list of names on this page, it takes many volunteers, such as Gerrit Tervrugt, to make Canada Blooms a success.

Many contributions help create Landscape Ontario’s gardens at Canada Blooms OTIUM EXERCISE GARDEN CONTRIBUTORS Brydges Landscape Architecture, Creative Concepts, Dean McLellan Stonework, Edengrove Landscapes, Entire Landscapes, Fanshawe College, Floristerra Greenhouses and Landscape Centre, Garden Retreats, Ground Effects Landscapes, Highland Builds, Illumicare Group, John Bland Stonecraft, Landscape Design/Ryerson University, Lee’s Landscaping, Patrick Callon Landscape Designer, Premier Landscaping and Design, Saugeen First Nation #29, Shawn Gallaugher Design, Thomas Custom Masonry, Turf Care Products Canada, Wentworth Landscapes, Whistling Dwarf Stonework SPONSORS Beaver Valley Stone, Boot’s Landscaping and Maintenance, John Deere Landscapes, Shawn Gallaugher Design, Sport Court Ontario, The Toro Company, Tufx-Fort, Unilock, Upper Canada Stone Company TEARDOWN TEAM Christopher Clayton Landscape Architect, Crewson Corners Landscaping and Home Maintenance, Crystal Bins, Crystal Lawn Care and Snow Removal, Dreamscape Landscaping and Irrigation, Edengrove Landscapes, Entire Landscapes, Floristerra Greenhouses and Landscape

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Centre, Garden Retreats, Ground Effects Landscapes, Grounds Guys Landscape Management, Highland Builds, Illumicare Group, Landscape Ontario London Chapter members, Rural Roots Landscaping, Ryerson University, Shawn Gallaugher Design, Turf Care Products Canada, Turf Management Systems, Vanderley Landscaping, Weed Man. VOLUNEERS Brian Bailey, Evan Bailey, Jason Beatty, Mike Bilotte, Matt Binns, John Bland, Gerald Boot CLP, Ryan Bosscher , Menno Braam, Paul Brydges, Connie Cadotte CLD, Alex Calero, Patrick Callon CLT, Ken Davies, Frank Del Vecchio, Jen Dodson, Nathan Drumm, Jeremy Feenstra, Brian Ferreira, Matt Ferreira, Steve Ferreira, Ang Fry, Shawn Gallaugher , J.P. Galle, Kara Gibbons, Will Goertzen, Keith Heaton, Tyler Heemshrek, Steven Hernandez , John Higo, Barry Hordyk, John Hordyk, Scott Jackson, Richard Jacobs, Kate Jonkman, Sean Kampen, Shannon Kellerman, Darren Kimewon, Ryley Koebel, Tim Kraemer, Jon Laurin, Andre Lemieux, Justine Lodder, Josh Mccarthy, Dean McLellan, Mike Melo, Lucas Michielsen CLT, Damian Morello, Joe Morello, Jim Philip, Daniel Pigeon, Jon Pink, James Riddell, Ronnie Ritchie, Robyn Saunders, Jared Swaving, Doug Silk, Scott Sim CIT, Dale Thomas, Dallas Thompson, Russell VanVeen, Mike Voortman, Scott Wentworth, Andrew Wilson

CONTRIBUTORS Creative Concepts and Mike Voortman; Designs by The Yard and Beth Edney; Ground Effects and Ang Fry, Keith Heaton, Robyn Saunders, Ryley Koebel; Illumicare Group and John Higo; Lawn Life Natural Turf Products and Ken Pavely; LawnSavers Plant Health Care and Kyle Tobin; Ryerson Apprentices, Jessica Munroe, Laura Cascagnette, Alex Dela; Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and Rohan Harrison, Carlos Gomes; Turfcare Products and Scott Sim; Turf Systems and Alan White; Weed Man Canada and Steve Tschanz; Wentworth Landscapes and MaryAnn Davies, Jim Philip, Steve Ferreira, Matt Ferreira, Brian Ferreira, Andrew Wilson SPONSORS Allstone Quarry, Designs by The Yard, Frogh Marina, Illumicare Group, Nursery Sod Growers Assoc. of Ontario, Permacon Group, Toronto Historic Distillery District, Turfcare, Vissers Sod Farm BLOOMS 2015 SUPPORTING SPONSORS Active Life, Allstone Quarry, Aquascape, Aviva, HUB and Sinclair Cockburn, Beaver Valley Stone, Bennett Golf Cars, Bloemen Décor, Canada’s Garden Route, Compost Council of Canada, CTV, Dufferin Aggregates, Floral Dimensions, Garden Making, Gro-Bark, Harrowsmith Almanac Gardening Digest, Intercontinental Hotel, Isuzu, Jill Jensen Botanicals, Less Mess Enviro bag, Nestle, New Vision Greenhouse Services, Permacon, pick Ontario, Pro-Mix, Stephenson’s Rental Services, The Toronto Star, The Veggie Guy, Unilock, Winkelmolen Nursery If we missed anyone, please notify us and we will include the name in the next issue of Landscape Ontario magazine.

Thank you to all of the volunteers who represented the industry in the Landscape Ontario Canada Blooms feature garden during the show.

Back in 1962, before the formation of Best Way Stone, Angelo Pignatelli (wearing hat), and his son Paolo (at truck door) were busy installing patios.

Family at Best Way Stone proud of growth over 50 years The people at Best Way Stone in Woodbridge show great pride in the achievements from three generations of family members who have worked together to grow the business that began 50 years ago.

The genesis of Best Way began with Angelo Pignatelli and his son Paolo, who had emigrated from Cassino, Italy. Paolo remembers the early days before the company was formed, when he and his father (now deceased) installed patios. “My dad was a stone mason, who brought the skill over from Italy,” says Pignatelli.

By 1965, business had improved so much, that Best Way Stone began. The company manufactured patio slabs, window sills and building stone in a small Richmond Hill factory.

When asked how the name Best Way came about, Pignatelli laughs, saying there was a company by the name. “My father felt that the name showed the pride that we had about their work.”

Frank Pacitto joined Best Way as a partner in 1974. At the time he made his living as a photographer for Eaton’s catalogue, but had worked part-time at the family business for a number of years, making his transition into the business fairly easy.

In 2000, Remo (Ray) Pignatelli became the third partner at Best Way. He had been working at the family business all his life, “since he was old enough to swing a hammer.”

Initially, the family business produced

stone by hand. That all changed in 1978, when one of the first machines of its kind in Canada to produce interlocking stone was brought into the company. At the time, interlocking paving stone was going through a dramatic increase in popularity among homeowners.

Another expansion took place in 1986, when Best Way opened a new location in Woodbridge. In this facility, three production machines were bought, which produced interlocking paving stones, patio slabs and window sills. Pacitto says that besides increased production, the new equipment allowed the family to come up with new designs, colours and material.

The product line was rapidly increasing.

Every year new looks were added, such as tumbled pavers. Stone was becoming a dominant look in many gardens.

Another major expansion took place in 2001, when Best Way brought in state-ofthe-art equipment, including a patio slab production machine. This replaced a system that Paolo had invented over 20 years before. The Woodbridge facility was now fully automated.

Pacitto says that as the popularity of stone grew, the construction industry was starting to use stone in more and more prestigious locations. By 2010, demand for more product and a wide variety of designs, brought Best Way to another stage of expansion.

More state-of-the-art equipment was required. The Uxbridge plant was opened

Best Way Stone partners are shown in photo: seated, Paolo Pignatelli, with Frank Pacitto, standing left, and Remo (Ray) Pignatelli.

creating a fully-automated production plant, helping to company meet the growing demand for product.

The company has also expanded its distribution area with centres in the U.S., Nova Scotia and Quebec, although Ontario remains the largest market for stone. “I see the present growth is non-stop,” says Paolo.

“The future is definitely bright,” says Frank Pacitto. He cites many long-time clients who believe in the special connection that an owner-operated business can provide. “We are one of the very few family-run companies in the industry.”

Third generation members of the family in management now include John Pignatelli, Paul Pignatelli, Jeff Pacitto, Andre Pacitto, Daniel Pignatelli and Erica Pignatelli. They continue the sense of pride that was handed down from Angelo Pignatelli 50 years ago.

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Thrive will bring three events of Garden Expo, Golden Horseshoe Chicken Roast and the Industry Auction, all under one banner this Sept. 16 to 17.

Thrive brings three popular LO events together Big changes are coming to three major Landscape Ontario events this year.

Garden Expo, Industry Auction and Golden Horseshoe Chicken Roast will combine under the name Thrive. “It’s all about re-invention and bringing people together in a casual environment. All of these events have been stand-alone for many years,” says LO show manager Heather MacRae. Thrive will take place on Sept. 16 – 17 at the Ancaster Fairgrounds in Jerseyville.

“Thrive was chosen based on the thriving environment, of not only LO, but our industry as a whole. Thrive means grow, flourish and prosper — everything that LO represents,” says MacRae. Ancaster Fairgrounds is a modern exhibition facility and an ideal venue for Garden Expo. The Fairgrounds’ support facilities, parking and easy access are sure to be welcomed by green industry buyers and exhibitors alike. The location is very close to many LO members, attendees and exhibitors. “It is casual environment where business can be conducted. It works very well for these unique events,” says MacRae, who noted, “Our sector groups were very keen about change and bringing sectors together in one central location.”

Chair of the Garden Expo Committee, Michael Van Dongen of Van Dongen’s Landscaping and Nurseries, Hornby, feels that moving Garden Expo from October to September offers the industry key advantages. “September works much better for

10 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO APRIL 2015

ated its chicken roast for many years, staging the event at member businesses each year. It has grown in attendance and attractions each year, but the main ingredient has always been great barbecue chicken with placing my merchandise orders,” he said.

Chapter members handling the chef duties.

LO past president and well-known “Our idea for Thrive sparked excitement nursery grower, Tom Intven of Canadale every time we presented it,” says MacRae. Nurseries, St. Thomas, agrees with Van “This new event, in a sharp venue, offers Dongen. “We are excited about the new opportunity for both indoor and outdoor Thrive show. For us as growers, it provides activity. We understand our events are all a much more timely opportunity to ‘show about face-to-face; plans for networking, off’ our product. We welcome the change food and social time at Thrive fit the bill.” and look forTom Intven ward to seeadded, “It reping all of our resents a paracustomers and digm shift that is friends at the spot on with what exciting new is happening in location and a the market. It will new time.” invigorate and The new Thrive event will serve more green industry The three enhance the relasectors, with more chances for networking and fun events being tionships between combined buyers and sellunder Thrive all have long histories within ers, bringing an organized social compoLandscape Ontario. nent, and the fun and excitement of the Garden Expo has been a mainstay Growers Auction that really showcases the trade show for growers and garden centre wonderful product grown in Ontario at a owners for the past 15 years. Held formerly time when stock looks great.” at the Toronto Congress Centre, discusMacRae says members should watch sions to revamp the show have been takfor further announcements as more ing place. activities may added between now and The annual Industry Auction is a major September. “We will continue to make fundraiser for the Ontario Horticultural announcements about Thrive throughout Trades Foundation, which hands out scholthe spring and summer.” arships and research funds. The Auction is Anyone interested in booking space, hosted by LO growers around the province becoming a sponsor, or with any questions and also features that sector’s Awards of may contact Heather MacRae at 416-848Excellence.

7577, or hmacrae@landscapeontario.com Golden Horseshoe Chapter has oper-

ASSOCIATION NEWS Contractors’ Lecture and Dinner was bustling event The Feb. 18 Contractors’ Lecture and Dinner event had a great turnout with 100 contractors, designers and suppliers in attendance at Chateau Le Jardin Conference and Event Venue Centre in Woodbridge.

Many came out to network with peers, have a great dinner and learn from the many speakers at the Lecture. The event, hosted by LO’s Landscape Contractors Sector Group, rotates locations each year.

Arthur Skolnik, director on LO’s Contractor Group was MC for the evening which provided two perspectives on landscape design and landscape architecture, as it relates to a contracted landscape project.

The first lecture was from James G. Thompson OALA, of J. Garfield Thompson Landscape, an Etobicoke-based landscape contractor, landscape architect and entrepreneur with a broad spectrum of experience. Thompson also founded the Water Arts company, and expressed his passion for water features. His excellent execution, skill and talent were evident to all in the room.

Following Thompson’s presentation, was landscape architect, Paul R. Brydges OALA, who brings a vast range of experience and draws inspiration from his clients, as well as his peers. Brydges highlighted many projects through a pictorial showcase and discussed his philosophy and areas of specialty. His

connections throughout the industry from serving on the Landscape Ontario Provincial Board of Directors, as well as the Landscape Designer Group, have allowed Brydges to engage his team.

Both presenters answered many questions, and shared some design-savvy tips for the trade.

The room was bustling following the event and many commented how inspired they were by their peers. A special thank you to Brenda Luckhardt and Sheridan Nurseries for the fresh spring centrepieces of fragrant blooming bulbs; everyone needed the reminder that spring is coming.

Dinner was significantly subsidized at the price of only $25 per person through the generous event sponsors, Beaver Valley Stone, Gro-Bark (Ontario), Pfaff Leasing, Sheridan Nurseries, Unilock and York Region Equipment. Each of the event sponsors had exhibits showcasing their products, and this provided everyone an opportunity to see the products up close and talk to the suppliers throughout the evening. A sincere thank went to each of the sponsors.

The committee looks forward to announcing plans for the 2016 event,

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e

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ASSOCIATION NEWS which will include a new Grounds Management Sector Group event preceding the lecture. Have ideas, comments or suggestions to share? Send them to kristen@landscapeontario.com.

London Chapter has great attendance to end year

London Chapter ended its season of Chapter meetings with two hugely successful meetings.

On Feb. 10, the Chapter held its safety meeting, welcoming representatives from the Ministry of Transportation and Workplace Safety and Prevention Services. Members were updated on the policies and procedures required for the coming year. The presentation provided members with the information and opportunity to make adjustments before the busy season starts.

Over 70 people were registered for the meeting. A hot buffet lunch, spon-

sored by Unilock, warmed everyone up as they enjoyed the meeting sponsored

by HortProtect/Investment Guild.

At the Mar. 10 meeting attendance numbers jumped to 165 members, who were energized, motivated and enlightened by Jim Paluch. He asked the question, “What do you do?” He told the audience, “The usual response to the question is something like, ‘I just cut grass.” He suggested that be changed to a positive, engaging and enticing response. “Using the words Outdoor Specialist changes the whole tone of the answer. It is more positive; more respected, and the person saying it has more pride,” said Paluch.

All who attended had an extra bounce in their step when they left.

LS Training System sponsored Jim Paluch and brought him to London for the meeting. Paluch has also been a speaker at Congress.

Registrants enjoyed another hot buf-

The final meeting of the season for the London Chapter saw an amazing attendance of 165 members to hear the energetic Jim Paluch.

fet lunch, sponsored by Permacon Group and the London Chapter.

Attendees will now start the season with up-to-date safety procedures, as well as energized and motivated staff. What a

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The next chapter event will be the 10th annual golf tournament on Sept. 18 at the Echo Valley Golf Course in London.

The Veterans Memorial Parkway Committee is also looking for volunteers for the week of Sept. 28 – Oct. 2 to help prepare the sites for the final planting of trees that will take place on Oct 3. If you can work a day or two, a half-day or a couple of hours, please contact Wendy.

The first Chapter meeting will take place on Oct. 13.

If you have any questions, or require more information, please contact Wendy at wharry@landscapeontario.com.

Have a great season and stay safe!

Lighting conference spotlights getting ready for the season

The 6th annual Landscape Lighting Conference on Feb. 25, at Teatro Conference and Event Centre in Milton, continues to grow through the efforts of the Landscape Ontario’s Landscape Lighting Sector Group.

Again volunteer members hosted and planned the event, working hard to ensure the content for the day was geared to the seasoned contractor. The association is fortunate to have such an involved and engaged group, which includes Carl Hastings, Cory MacCallum CIT, Frank DiMarco, James Solecki, Jamie Riddell, Joe Willemse, John Higo, Ken Martin, Leon Hordyk and Rob Core.

The conference kicked off with the

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The annual landscape lighting conference was a great time for attendeees to view the latest items on the market.

popular round-table discussion groups. The focus was on what matters most to today’s lighting contractor. Safety on the Job was presented by Frank DiMarco of DiMarco Landscape Lighting in Mount Albert. John Higo, of Turf Care Products, presented Opportunities and New Technologies, and James Solecki, of Integra Bespoke Lighting Systems in Port Sydney, presented Award Winning Lighting Design.

The morning keynote presentation on planning for profitability was delivered by George Urvari of Oriole Landscaping of Toronto. The session highlighted how to build loyal customers, who become more than one point of contact, innovative selling techniques and the importance of proper and accurate billing.

Many contractors commented on how they learned a lot of small detailed tips that they could take back and immediately implement

Paver customers enjoy plant tour Oaks by Brampton Brick hosted a well-attended customer appreciation day on Mar. 24. Morning meetings at Horseshoe Valley Resort were followed by tours at the company’s Hillsdale plant. Here, a giant press moulds pavers; this step and virtually every other production and logistical process at the facility is automated.

in their business.

Thirteen exhibits showcased new and innovative landscape lighting products for the upcoming season. It gave everyone an opportunity to see the products up close and talk to the suppliers throughout the day. Exhibits on display were from the following supportive sponsors: Focus Industries, FX Luminaire, Sollos Landscape Lighting, Illumicare Group, John Deere Landscapes, Linzel Distributing, Martek Supply, Solutions Aquasol, Turf Care Products, Unique Lighting Systems, Vanden Bussche Irrigation, Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting and WB Cross Co. The Lighting Sector Group appreciates all of the time and effort put into the displays, and was happy to see the great benefit to all of the delegates.

Also included was an important and timely keynote from Ruurd van de Ven from Arborvalley Urban Forestry on issues that affect even the most seasoned contractor. He focused on how to properly climb or mount trees during installation, proper pruning techniques and climbing safety. “We were fortunate to have a professional like Ruurd come and speak to these important safety issues for our group. He highlighted areas of concern with regards to on-site safety and this was a welcome addition to the conference,” said James Solecki, chair of the Lighting Sector Group.

The end of the sessions was marked with refreshments for all at a pub, courtesy of Turf Care Products.

We look forward to announcing plans for the 2016 event and thank everyone for their support. Anyone with ideas, comments or suggestions to share, may contact Kristen at kristen@ landscapeontario.com.

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Canadale celebrates 60 years Canadale Nurseries recently held its eighth annual home and garden show in St. Thomas with over 5,000 visitors taking in the event. The event also celebrated Canadale’s 60th anniversary. The three-day open house, from Mar. 20 to 22, also featured lots of events, music, displays by area businesses and demonstrations. When it was over, Canadale raised $5,000 towards the St. Thomas Hospital.

In photo, from left, Kate Intven-Holt, supervisor, and Pauline Intven-Casier, Vice President of Canadale Nurseries, stand in a display to celebrate 60 years in business.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS R.J. Rogers announces change of ownership

Richard Rogers, of R.J. Rogers Landscaping of North Gower, has retired from his ownership of the company. He founded the company in 1982.

“I have always enjoyed working in this

wonderful industry, particularly with the various clients, designers and suppliers,” says Rogers. He will remain, on a part time basis, during the transition.

Geoffrey Pratt, who has been with the company for 25 years, looks forward to his new role as president and owner.

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Rogers credits Pratt’s contributions as an important part of the company’s development and success.

In memoriam Hans Joerg Fischer

The landscape industry lost a truly dedicated and knowledgeable landscape professional with the passing of Hans Joerg Fischer on Feb. 10, 2015, in his 82nd year.

He will be sadly missed by wife Eleonore (née Gengenbach), siblings Elisabeth Seipel (Klaus) and Ernst Fischer (Hilde), and his children Eleanor, Michael (Janice) and Carl.

Fischer’s landscaping career spanned over 50 years. After arriving in Canada from his homeland of Germany, Fischer worked at M. Putzer Nursery in Hornby with the landscape crew. Five years later, he joined Leslie L. Solty and Sons in Barrie, where he was employed for 45 years.

Skilled in all aspects of the landscaping industry, he will be best remembered for his abilities on a backhoe planting trees. Fischer worked on countless projects, including some well-known landmarks, such as Ontario Place, Wonderland, Inn on The Park, Four Seasons Sheridan Hotel and McMaster University. During the 1980s and ‘90s, Fischer planted over 180,000 trees around the GTA, not to mention the thousands of shrubs and perennials.

Fischer will be remembered for his inquisitive conversations and sarcastic humour. Metaphors and riddles delivered with a straight, poker-like face, might sometimes catch the uninitiated off guard.

His motive for conversational engagement was a genuine interest in people’s thoughts and interests. Fischer’s thirst for knowledge, even in his senior years, was endless.

A dedicated and motivated employee, even in his 80s, Fischer could still out work people a fraction of his age. His knowledge and passion for the green industry will be greatly missed.

In memoriam David Graham Ritchie

David Graham Ritchie, in his 88th year, passed away on Feb. 27, 2015.

He will be remembered as a prominent member of the Ottawa business community. He was one of the owners of Ritchie Feed and Seed, a company that has been a long-time active member of Landscape Ontario.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 63 years, Nancy (Eastwood), and children, Neill (Christine), Tom, Douglas (Susan), and Peter. His grandchildren include Kala, Ivy, Joey, Jennyfer, David, Sarah, Allison and Michael and great-grandchildren, Jacob, Austin, Lexia, Kingston and Jonathon.

He was predeceased by his siblings Shirley, Claire and George.

Ritchie dedicated many years of service to the Gloucester Lions Club. He will be sorely missed by the residence of Riverpark Place on euchre nights and bingo.

Family and friends paid their respects at the Garden Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes, Nepean, Mar. 3. The funeral service was held in the chapel on Mar. 4.

In memoriam Ed Elzinga

Connon NVK announced the passing of Ed Elzinga, on Mar. 15, 2015.

Many clients of Connon NVK crossed pathways with Elzinga, as he was the front man delivering horticulture products to job sites or garden centres.

Last fall Ed Elzinga was diagnosed with cancer. He battled this disease with optimism and courage. Elzinga was a quiet man, always ready to do his job with a smile.

Everyone who knew Elzinga, thought of him as a kind, gentle, humble, generous soul.

Connon staff wrote, “Ed began working for Connon Nurseries in the spring of 1976. He loved his job and loved to do it extremely well. Ed took pride in being able to get plants to customers safely and efficiently. No matter how difficult the job site was to get into, Ed would get it done! If he had to crane them in, he did it; if you asked him to spot the trailer in the most undesirable location, he would. Ed was always professional and took great care of everything that was entrusted to him.

“This would have been Ed’s 40th spring at Connon NVK. “We are comforted with the knowledge that he loved the Lord and is now resting in His arms.”

There will be a private funeral service, held with just family. To express condolences please email pauline@connonnurseries.com. Connon NVK will be sure that the family receives them.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS In memoriam Neil Pike

Neil Edward Pike died suddenly on Mar. 18, 2015 at the age of 64.

Pike will be dearly missed by many, many friends and those he met through his landscaping company, Neil Pike Limited.

Family and friends paid respects at Dixon-Garland Funeral Home in Markham. A memorial service took place in the Chapel on Mar. 26.

Neil Pike was beloved father to Ian and loving brother to Ray. Neil Pike Limited has been a member of Landscape Ontario since 1981.

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Georgian Lakelands Ski and Spa Day had a good turnout on Feb. 26 for the 18th annual event at Craigleith Ski Club and Scandinave Spa, Blue Mountain.

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SCHOLARSHIP PROFILE Tanya Steffler: Scholarship leads to membership Back in 2003, Tanya Steffler received a $1,000 scholarship from the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation.

The funding did more than just provide financial assistance during her time at the University of Guelph. It also helped her to move into her present job with the City of Oshawa, where she just celebrated her 11th year.

“It’s funny, but the scholarship included a membership to Landscape Ontario,” says Steffler. “There was an ad in the magazine for the position I currently have with the City of Oshawa.

I never would have applied for this position if I didn’t receive that magazine.

I never would have seen the ad.”

Steffler serves as a Parks and Environmental Services Technician with the city. “I developed and manage the Pest Management Program, which I created to maintain the fields prior to the pesticide ban coming into effect.” She also handles the emerald ash borer program for Oshawa.

Steffler has a degree in plant biology, which she says comes in handy in her responsibilities for the entire municipality’s turf.

The 2003 scholarship recipient says the funding from the Foundation was well timed. “I was soon graduating and money is always tight after being a student for seven years.” Steffler attended Fanshawe College for Environmental Technology, before she became at student at the University of Guelph in Plant Biology.

The Foundation believes in helping future horticultural workers get a strong start. Each year the Foundation makes a number of scholarships, bursaries and awards available to high school and post-secondary students.

Students can find more information at horttrades.com/ scholarship; application deadline is June 30.

If you have contact information for a past scholarship recipient, please write adennis@ landscapeontario.com

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Events Bookmark horttrades.com/comingevents for up-to-date event information.

June 1 - 2

July 22 - 24

Ted Rogers School of Management, Ryerson University, 55 Dundas St. W., Toronto Presented by Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, the conference addresses the future of green infrastructure and designing for resilience. Some of the leading-edge issues and developments that will be discussed, include parks becoming focal points for community cohesion, managing stormwater, protecting biodiversity, tourism, generating tax revenue, food and more.

Dover, Ohio Sno-Motion is an event for snow and ice management industry professionals, held every other year. Sno-motion is held in Amish Country in east-central Ohio, and provides an opportunity to learn from your peers, network and sharpen your knowledge in several key areas of a snow and ice management business. The event kicks off with a dinner and guest speaker Wednesday evening. The theme of the educational sessions this year is Focus. Attendees will participate in a series of interactive sessions on Thursday, and visit the Ventrac manufacturing facility on Friday for a tour and equipment rodeo. Sno-motion is hosted by Pro-Motion Consulting. For more information, go to horttrades.com/sno-motion-2015.

Grey to Green Conference

June 20

Bees, butterflies and beyond

838369 4th Line East, Mulmur This public education event takes place on a Saturday, so all family members can take part and learn about native pollinators, why they are so important and what individuals can do to protect them. Educational talks, interactive demonstrations, food tastings and film screening will be held throughout the day. Find more details and registration information at notsohollowfarm.ca.

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July 23

Toronto Chapter Golf Tournament

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along with an opportunity for some networking.

For more information, go to horttrades.com/torontochapter-2015-golf-tournament.

August 16

Toronto Chapter Baseball Tournament

Richmond Green Put your company team together to take part in the annual Toronto Chapter Baseball Tournament. It’s a great day of sport, food and fun. For more information, go to horttrades.com/torontochapter-2015-baseball-tournament.

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NEW MEMBERS

Egreen Design Inc

Lou Savoia 150 Clark Blvd, Brampton, ON L6T 4Y8 Tel: 416-702-5087 Membership Type: Active

Northern Lights and Rainmakers Inc

Durham

Golden Horseshoe

Breezewood Landscaping and Design Inc

Dillon Technical Consulting

Steven Ungurain 1108 Maplegate Rd, Pickering, ON L1X 1B8 Tel: 905-492-1362 Membership Type: Active

Epic Interlock and Landscape

Matthew Blanche 445 Arnhem Dr, Oshawa, ON L1G 2J2 Tel: 905-668-5607 Membership Type: Active

R Havery Landscape Cust Hort Contracting Rob Havery 1521 Concession Rd 9, Blackstock, ON L0B 1B0 Tel: 905-424-2249 Membership Type: Active

Jason Dillon 25 Martha Crt, Pelham, ON L0S 1C0 Tel: 905-932-8400 Membership Type: Chapter Associate

Dutra Landscape Construction

Roger Dutra 110 Weir St N, Hamilton, ON L8H 5E8 Tel: 905-399-2887 Membership Type: Active

Ottawa Hortitech

Georgian Lakelands

Mykola Kachmar 4093 Viewbank Rd, RR 1, Kars, ON K0A 2E0 Tel: 613-978-0808 Membership Type: Active

Country Roots Masonry & Landscaping Inc

Yantha Backhoe & Trucking Ltd

Brent Penelton 279 Barrie St, Thornton, ON L0L 2N0 Tel: 705-796-7811 Membership Type: Active

DYC Properties

Dan Hayes-Sheen 254 Tancred St, Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6B 0E2 Tel: 705-542-8132 Membership Type: Active

Darren Neil & Sons Excavating Inc Darren Neil PO Box 991, Stayner, ON L0M 1S0 Tel: 705-443-1228 Membership Type: Active

Ricks Interlocking Stone

Rick Sheldrake 1060 Bayfield St N, Midhurst, ON L0L 1X1 Tel: 705-737-2790 Membership Type: Active

Southern Foliage Tropical Plant Care Ltd Shawn Leeder 38 Agnes St, Barrie, ON L4M 2S2 Tel: 416-523-4411 Membership Type: Active

John Yantha 2532 Dafoe Rd, Combermere, ON K0J 1L0 Tel: 613-756-3441 Membership Type: Active

Toronto Bin There Dump That

Mark Crossett 6 - 2624 Royal Windsor Dr, Mississauga, ON L5J 1K7 Tel: 905-823-7330 Membership Type: Chapter Associate

Boyer Property Management

Daniel Boyer 31 Winsdale Rd, Etobicoke, ON M9C 2W7 Tel: 647-607-5049 Membership Type: Interim

Canadian Land FX

Justin Kavcic 457 Sonoma Blvd, Woobridge, ON L4H 2S3 Tel: 647-527-1819 Membership Type: Interim

Sean Rutledge 213 - 365 Wilson Ave, Toronto, ON M3H 1T3 Tel: 647-347-1408 Membership Type: Active

Oaken Holdings o/a Bobcat of Toronto and Bobcat of Barrie Matthew Dewitt 35 Claireville Dr, Toronto, ON M9W 5Z7 Tel: 416-679-4167 Membership Type: Associate

Pool Craft

Jason Mitchell 16 - 561 Edward Ave, Richmond Hill, ON L4G 9W6 Tel: 905-884-2720 Membership Type: Active

Upper Canada Gariepy Lawn & Garden

Guy Gariepy 1086 Highway 2 E, Kingston, ON K7L 4V1 Tel: 613-542-8077 Membership Type: Active

Johns Equipment Sales and Service Vickie Kemp 324 Trent St, Frankford, ON K0K 2C0 Tel: 613-398-6522 Membership Type: Associate

Waterloo GP Emerson Alum

Gary Emerson 520 Heather Hill PL, Waterloo, ON N2T 1H7 Tel: 519-885-1964 Membership Type: Associate

Robin Aggus

Robin Aggus 10 Memorial St, Eden Mills, ON N0B 1P0 Tel: 519-767-4924 Membership Type: Active

Dig-Con International Ltd

Sam DiGregorio 8&9 - 4 Holland Dr, Bolton, ON L7E 1G1 Tel: 905-951-1616 Membership Type: Active

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Landscape architecture conference comes to Toronto

MP introduces legislation to cover irrigation Francis Scarpaleggia, Member of Parliament for Lac-Saint-Louis and Chair of the National Liberal Caucus, in February tabled legislation in the House of Commons to amend the Canada Water Act to authorize the federal government to play a lead role in promoting the optimum use of water resources in Canada.

If passed, An Act to amend the Canada Water Act (recycling, conservation and efficiency) would allow the federal government to make “regulations respecting water devices and standards for water recycling, water conservation and water efficiency” and develop and undertake “programs relating to the development and promotion of water devices and water-recycling, water conservation and water efficiency practices.”

It would also allow the government to establish or recognize “standards for water recycling, water conservation and water efficiency” and to enforce minimum water-efficiency standards in waterrelated devices (water-applying devices, water-consuming devices, water-recycling devices, water-conserving, and water efficient devices) sold in Canada through the federal power to regulate

international and inter-provincial trade.

The bill would also allow Ottawa to “enter into agreements with the government of the United States, provincial governments, industrial and trade organizations and communities with an interest in the recycling, conservation and efficient use of water, to provide programs to develop water devices” and “promote the adoption of water devices and waterrecycling, water conservation and water efficiency practices.”

“Water efficiency, recycling and conservation is becoming increasingly important in a world with growing water stresses causes by population growth, economic growth and the impacts of climate change on water supplies” said the Montreal West Island M.P. “There is a need to set optimum standards for waterusing products, devices and processes, from rain-harvesting devices to irrigation systems. The creation and enforcement of broad national standards that dovetail with evolving international standards is a legitimate role for the federal government to play around the protection of Canada’s most vital resource.”

The Cultural Landscape Foundation presents Second Wave of Modernism III: Leading with Landscape, to be held May 21-23 at several Toronto venues.

The conference explores the role of landscape architecture in Toronto’s ambitious urban development along its waterfront and in its diverse neighbourhoods. It will examine the international implications behind these planning, design and development strategies. Free tours of the city’s heritage landscapes are also planned.

Landscape Ontario and Landscape Trades are conference sponsors. Register at tclf.org.

Niagara FALLS recognized at garden conference

The City of Niagara Falls received the prestigious Garden Destination of the Year Award at the Garden Tourism Conference on Mar. 17 in Toronto.

The award was presented by the Canadian Garden Council. It is given to organizations and individuals who distinguish themselves in the development and promotion of the garden experience, as a tourism attraction.

A founding member of the Canadian Garden Council, Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) is proud of the role and responsibility it has in showcasing the over 1,300 hectares of manicured parklands around the magnificent Niagara Falls.

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The beauty of Niagara’s parks is why it has become one of Canada’s foremost tourism destinations for garden lovers.

River corridor for the enjoyment of visitors, Niagara Parks has become one of Canada’s foremost tourism destinations for nature and garden enthusiasts.

Commenting on the award, Janice Thomson, chair of The Niagara Parks Commission stated, “Niagara Falls and Niagara Parks are recognized through-

out the world for our stunning parks and gardens. The Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, Dufferin Islands, Oakes Garden Theatre and Queen Victoria Park, Queenston Heights Park, to name but a few, provide great inspiration to our visitors and are a major tourism attraction in themselves.”

Niagara Falls annually welcomes over 12 million visitors.

Other Ontario awards winners include Flower Festival of the Year, Canadian Tulip Festival; Garden Event of the Year, Allan Gardens at Christmas; Garden Exhibition of the Year, Royal Botanical Gardens’ Earth Art; Destination Garden

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INDUSTRY NEWS Centre of the Year, Rideau Woodland Ramble; Medium of the Year, Canadian Gardening magazine.

The Canadian Garden Council Board is comprised of members from the B.C. Garden Tourism Society, Ontario Garden Tourism Coalition, Associations des grands jardins du Québec, Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, Communities in Bloom and representatives from public and botanical gardens in Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador.

Minimum wage going up Oct. 1

The Ontario government has announced that the province’s minimum wage will increase on Oct. 1 to $11.25 an hour from $11.

When making the announcement, Labour Minister Kevin Flynn said, “Our government has taken politics out of minimum wage increases while ensuring wages for Ontario workers keep pace with inflation and businesses have time to prepare for payroll changes.”

“This puts more money in people’s pockets, gives our businesses predictability and helps build a more prosperous economy, while ensuring a fair society for all.”

Workers in the food, retail and agricultural industries are the main beneficiaries

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when the minimum wage goes up.

Ontario is currently tied with Nunavut for the highest minimum wage in Canada.

Ontario raised the minimum rate last year on June 1, to $11 an hour from $10.25.

The student minimum wage will increase in October to $10.55 an hour from the current $10.30 an hour.

WAGE DATA RELEASED

CNLA in partnership with Landscape Ontario collected relevant wage rate data to provide industry-driven Labour Market Information to employers, employees, the provincial associations, educators and government agencies.

This information is the first-ever national wage survey for Canada’s green industry, and is expected to be instrumental to all sectors of nursery stock growers, landscape operations and retail garden centres.

Data from the survey shows the following hourly rates: Garden Centre or Nursery manager/Grower, $35.20; Landscape Manager, $28.20; Supervisor, $29.45; Landscape Designer, $28.50; Landscape Technician, $21.25; Landscape Technician Specialist, $20.00; Crew Member/Labourer, $16.30; Nursery/Greenhouse Worker, $13.40; Garden Centre/Nursery Sale Supervisor, $21.50; Garden Centre Salesperson, $15.90;

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Study shows EAB also attacking white fringetrees

In a paper published in the Journal of Economic Entomology, researchers at Wright State University in Ohio reported that the emerald ash borer had attacked white fringetrees, the closest relative of the ash tree and an increasingly popular ornamental tree in the U.S. and Canada.

Don Cipollini, a plant physiology professor at Wright State University, who detected the spread, said, “Other trees and shrubs in the same family as the white fringetree now need to be watched for ash borer infestations, including lilacs, forsythia, and privet.”

The white fringetree is in the same family as the more widely found lilac tree. Cipollini said lilac tree owners shouldn’t be too alarmed. “White fringetree is vulnerable, but it’s quite closely related to ash and it’s more closely related to ash trees than lilac, privet and forsythia are,” said Cipollini.

Cipollini said the white fringetree is rare in Quebec (and Ontario) and lilacs are not as vulnerable to attacks by the invasive green beetle. But he does recommend monitoring these tree species and the insect’s movements.

“It’s quite likely that white fringetree is more similar in that regard than those other species are, so at the moment I do not believe that lilac, privet and

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forsythia are vulnerable,” said Cipollini.

“At the moment I’m not too concerned about it but it certainly is worth more examination.”

CFIA announces horticulture plant list

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is implementing a new approach to issuing import permits for commonly traded plants intended for planting and propagation.

Importers may now apply for permission to import all the plants on a new Horticulture Plant List (HPL) from all countries with a single entry on their import permit application form. The HPL is available on the CFIA’s website at inspection.gc.ca/plantlist.

The HPL was compiled by the CFIA as a list of frequently requested plants which have common, basic phytosanitary import requirements. This will allow importers who are applying for an import permit to apply for all plant taxa included on the HPL with a single application, instead of requesting each of the listed taxa individually on their permit application.

Permit applicants often request permission to import many different plant taxa for each country of origin. Currently, each plant taxon must be entered individually on the application form for an import permit. The CFIA says the HPL is a way to simplify this process. In addition, the HPL may reduce the time required to review lengthy application forms and to issue the associated permit.

Grey to Green Conference’s half-day tours of urban rooftop gardens and Toronto’s waterfront will give exclusive access to local projects that push the boundaries of green infrastructure and multi-use design.

Milkweed Highway to help Monarchs

The Milkweed Highway is a project to feed and nurture vast numbers of Monarch butterflies, which are in a dramatic and steep decline in numbers.

Peter Prakke of Ancaster is a director of Safe Gardening, a non-profit international organization that initiated The Milkweed Highway. “We are very proud to announce the co-operation of Antler Services of Brantford, to be the first garden centre in Canada to join in this endeavour,” says Prakke.

It is the aim of The Milkweed Highway to encourage large numbers of people in the U.S. and Canada to plant and maintain new native milkweed plants. The focus of the Highway will be to run across the southern U.S. As the Highway grows in popularity, it will also start to crisscross more northern areas within the monarch migration routes.

There are many individuals who can plant a half a dozen or more milkweed plants; likewise there are numerous civic groups, churches, schools, clubs, and other environmental groups that could plant even larger numbers. If done right, the more milkweeds we plant, the more the butterflies will have to feed and grow on.

There is considerable valid concern that when people plant milkweeds to host monarchs, that they should be using only native species of Asclepias, so that the butterflies do not stop and linger on their migrations south and lay eggs on plants that will then get frosted and killed.

The overall, over-reaching main goal of Safe Gardening is to encourage the creation of landscapes that are healthy for humans, for wildlife, and that are sustainable, balanced and environmentally sound. More information may be found at safegardening.org.

Grey to Green Conference in June

Green Roofs for Healthy Cities will present The Grey to Green Conference on June 1 and 2 at Ted Rogers School of Management, Ryerson University, 55 Dundas St. W., in Toronto.

The annual event addresses the future of green infrastructure and designing for resilience. Some of the leading-edge issues and developments will be discussed. These will include include parks becoming focal points for community cohesion, managing stormwater, protecting biodiversity, tourism, generating tax revenue, food and more.

Grey to Green 2015 promises two days packed with information, ideas, best practices, tools and results that you can easily adapt for your projects. The trade show showcases innovative products and solutions in green infrastructure and urban farming.

New plants arriving daily

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 25

EXECUTIVE DESK Musings from Canada Blooms 2015 Tony DiGiovanni CHT LO executive director

C

anada Blooms is community accelerated. Vision becomes reality in five days of construction. Tensions and emotions run high. Friendships are cemented through shared experience. A huge amount of volunteer contribution and teamwork occurs even between competitors. Learning happens in real time and in so many ways.

The occasional conflict erupts as materials don’t arrive on time or certain ideas don’t quite work. There is a great deal of pride when things do come together. The long hours in the midst of dust and diesel take their toll, as individuals become exhausted. Some become physically ill. The logic of building these amazing gardens and floral features, just to tear them down after 10 days, is difficult to understand. However, the result is inspirational, emotional and memorable.

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Canada Blooms is a great opportunity for our industry to show what passion builds.

Canada Blooms reflects the creativity, passion and purpose of our industry in a way that no other communication medium can.

Quality is based on how well the campaign is remembered by the targeted demographic. Canada Blooms creates an experience that lasts a lifetime. It communicates at an emotional level. Even though the displays are hugely expensive and could not be done without incredible levels of contribution from so many, the cost per impression is negligible if the memory lasts a lifetime.

I overheard a home show staff member say to another, “This is what passion builds.” What a great description.

One of the reasons I love working for Landscape Ontario is because I am in the company of the most wonderful, passionate, creative, visionary, inspirational and contribution-oriented family of members, staff and volunteers. You are known throughout the horticultural world for your professionalism, positive energy and character. Your work on a daily basis raises awareness for the environmental, economic, social, recreational, lifestyle, health and spiritual benefits of our important profession. Your work — especially your caring attitudes — improve the quality of life for generations of people. You are community builders, outdoor living specialists and landscape and garden professionals.

Canada Blooms has inspired millions of people to connect with nature, gardens and plants. It has helped to improve our industry. It has made a positive contribution to the broader community.

I would like to thank everyone for your awe-inspiring and amazing contributions.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the staff and volunteers who work behind the scenes.

This was the first Canada Blooms for new General Manager Terry Caddo. It sure did not seem that way. His professionalism and experience were evident as he worked through thousands of details and issues.

Administrative Coordinator Lisa Pascoe is amazing to watch in action. She is an energizer. Her contribution to the success of Canada Blooms cannot be overestimated. She handles everything with enthusiasm and grace.

Joe Della Rossa handles the operations. Joe is indefatigable.

Under his direction, he makes the complex logistics look quite simple. He also has a calming influence.

David Turnbull is the new Director of Horticulture. David is a Past President of Landscape Ontario. His expansive network of contacts has already benefited Canada Blooms. Although Dave is a new staff member, he has been a valued volunteer for the last 18 years.

This remarkable staff team also provides guidance to hundreds of volunteers.

Tony DiGiovanni may be reached at tony@landscapeontario.com.

26 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO APRIL 2015

PUBLIC RELATIONS A tale of two cities

By Denis Flanagan CLD Director of Public Relations and Membership Services

A

couple of months ago, I was comfortably reading a book, when I received a telephone call from Karen MacLean. She was wondering if I might be interested in helping her organize a garden event in Verona.

My brain immediately started to race.

I began to make mental notes to make sure my passport was up to date and to pick up a book on how to speak Italian.

Karen then went on to explain that the Verona she was speaking of was where she lived, which is about 30 minutes north of Kingston. Although Ontario’s Verona is not the iconic romantic setting of Romeo and Juliet fame, it is indeed a charming township in South Frontenac. Karen thought her Verona deserved to have an event to celebrate the beginning of Spring.

So, always up for a challenge, I began to reach out to our Upper Canada Chapter members. I relied on the formula that we all know works well: pick a good location, have interesting topics, concentrate on networking, involve sponsors and put a solid marketing plan in place.

Proudly growing fine perennials

Karen booked the Lions Club Hall, which was a great venue with lots of free parking, seating for 150 and a great sound system. To fulfill the interesting topic requirement, we organized talks on Invest in your Garden, New Trends and Plants for 2015 and Why Hire a Professional Landscape Company. This tied in nicely with inviting LO With a little help from his friends, Denis Flanagan helped member Pam McCormick organize a spring event in Verona.

CLP from Simply Landscaping and Garden Designs to be at the event. by placing an advertisement in the local The networking aspect of creating a paper, along with flyers distributed within great event was taken care of through the the community. But, the best way that the local Master Gardeners (Nancy Cole, LO event was promoted was through the netHorticultural member) and Horticultural work of partners who had a vested interSocieties. Other vendors included a local est in making the day a success. Through family-run nursery and hardware store. As a series of emails, Tweets and Facebook an aside, it was good to meet Tom Bridge, mentions, the event attracted approxipresident of the Napanee Horticultural mately 100 people.

Society, who used to work for long-time It was a great success for a first-time LO member Harper’s Gardening Centre in event in a small community. This is a forDundas. mula that could be repeated by any of our The sponsorship for the evening came Chapters as a way of increasing awarein two forms, a local business Memory ness of LO in your local community.

Lane, did a fabulous job of decorating the I would still love to visit ‘the other stage with spring plants. Karen MacLean, Verona’ one day. I’m just waiting for an investment consultant, represented someone to open an LO Chapter there.

The Investors Group, which supported the Any takers? evening, including a draw to win $10,000 for landscaping.

Denis Flanagan may be contacted at Marketing the event was achieved dflanagan@landscapeontario.com.

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MEMBERSHIP There’s no ‘I’ in team

By Myscha Burton Membership and Chapter Coordinator

T

he London Chapter’s meeting on Mar. 10 featured guest speaker Jim Paluch with over 100 in attendance. It was great to see so many members at this event and is a great reminder of the value of attending chapter meetings.

These events not only offer education opportunities, but they are fantastic ways to network with your local industry colleagues, as well as suppliers. During the presentation, Paluch brought up some very valid points about the importance of your company’s team.

One that really stuck with me was “your crew is a direct reflection of your success.”

It was so nice to see not only the company owners at this meeting, but the crews and team members as well. This does not happen very often at Chapter events, but there is a definite value in including your staff. It is true, your team largely contributes to the success of your company.

Signing up your staff for the weekly LO enews will bring them up-to-date on Chapter events such as golf tournaments. It’s a great way to boost the team’s morale, and it also gives your employees a deeper connection to your company. Now that all sounds lovely,

but what does that mean for you?

Employees, who are passionate about the company they work for and respect their fellow team members, are not only going to give you their best work and go that extra mile, but they are going to help represent your company to the best of their ability. That can mean proudly displaying your company’s logo, maintaining professionalism on and off the job site, even good driving while in a company vehicle, and of course perform quality work.

I heard a story from one of our members who came across a crew from another company. These team members were smoking in a company vehicle (a big no-no), which had logos emblazoned all over it. When this person asked them about it, the response was the farthest thing from professional. It just so happens that the member who approached them also knew their boss…oops.

Another oops came from someone who was driving a company vehicle and treated a red light like a stop sign and drove right through the intersection. Not only is this incredibly dangerous and against the law, but that was a company truck that got caught on the red-light camera. That could be your company that is being represented by individuals who do not feel accountable for their actions, or engaged with the company. They have not embraced the team aspect of their work environment and are poorly representing you.

Your staff contribute to the reputation

your company has that your clients and industry colleagues will notice. It goes beyond just hiring the most qualified people for the job. You can help to create an environment where your staff are actively engaged in the company they work for; beyond their pay cheque.

Yes, you may have to invest in your staff to achieve this, but there is certainly mutual benefit in this investment for you and your staff. Signing your staff up for some of LO’s seminars, or bringing your staff to a chapter event to hear a guest speaker can help develop the skills of your crew, provide them with necessary safety training, and also foster the team environment. How about an extra thank-you to your staff members for all of their hard work and dedication by planning a day at a golf tournament, or simply keeping them connected to an association by signing them up for the enews.

The team that forms your company largely determines the success of your company, and thus your success. Fostering a positive team environment and utilizing the resources available to you is a win-winwin for you, your staff and your business.

If you’re looking for some summer fun activities for you and your staff, why not come out to a golf or baseball tournament.

Some events already have dates for you to mark in your calendars. Toronto Chapter’s golf tournament will be held on July 23 at Nobleton Lakes Golf Course, and the Toronto Chapter’s Baseball Tournament will be held on Aug. 16 at Richmond Green.

Save the date of Aug. 14 for the Golden Horseshoe Chapter’s golf tournament at Willow Valley Golf Club.

Stayed tuned for more exciting events taking place this summer. You will find the latest updates in your weekly e-news and your chapter’s webpage, or you can contact me directly at myscha@landscapeontario. com, or call 1-800-265-5656, ext. 354.

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UNDERGROUND WORLD April is Dig Safe Month

By Terry Murphy CLP

B

randing is an integral part of corporate life and our advertising world.

Scotiabank has its catch phrase, “You are richer than you think.” Allstate Farm Insurance has, “You are in good hands with Allstate.”

Ford Motor company boasts, “Safety is job one.”

Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance (ORCGA) has, “Dig Safe,” complete with its unique logo.

April is Dig Safe Month in the damage prevention industry. I hope that many of you can celebrate our industry’s great reduction in utility hits per 1,000 locates over the last four years and help us promote our logo and its meaning to excavators and the public.

Many excavating firms, municipalities and utilities will have special events planned to promote damage prevention and explain the important aspects of underground safety and saving lives. Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance has more than 53 public events planned to show citizens what is important before they plant trees and shrubs, or dig in the soil on their properties.

• Call Ontario One Call with a request for locates • Wait for your locate paperwork and markings on the ground • Make sure the excavating person has the locate paperwork with them • Excavate according to the ORCGA Best Practice Manual and the Safety Act • Dig safely noting the tolerance zone and locate markings These fundamental rules apply to both industry firms and the public. The brand logo represents all parties who strive to make the damage industry safe.

College has Dig Safe Day

Horticultural Technician Apprenticeship students at Mohawk College celebrated Dig Safe Day in March, as they will be back at work in April. ORCGA provided students with Dig Safe t-shirts, a damage prevention video, brochures and flyers on how to

dig safely on the job. The students wore their t-shirts all day and it was well received by the general student population at the Stoney Creek campus. A key part of the day was a two-hour lecture on the damage prevention industry, ORCGA, promotional activities of member firms and ORCGA Geographic Councils. Students were also introduced to the Ear to the Ground publication, the Damage Information Reporting Tool (DIRT), and the national body, Canadian Common Ground Council.

Damage prevention, saving lives and reducing the annual number of utility hits is important to all of us. In Canada, damage repairs are costing utilities and society over an estimated $100 million every year.

This cost is for all of society and is reflected in our utility bills. These bills are increasing each year. We all must do our part to minimize these damages, save lives and reduce costs.

You can go on the ORCGA website and get a list of the council locations and telephone numbers and a list of some of the April Dig Safe promotions. Please feel free to call any ORCGA Council and participate in a local promotion. I’m sure they will welcome you.

Please contact me with any feedback on this article or any other underground issue at tvmurphy@ca.inter.net.

What is meaning of logo?

The Dig Safe Logo is the brand for the ORCGA and the damage prevention industry.

It is what we promote as our identification for saving lives and reducing damages in the underground utility business.

This promotional brand and logo signifies six key elements that are required when we excavate. When you see the logo, you should think of the following when excavating: • Plan your excavations carefully

Students from Mohawk College celebrate Dig Safe Day.

WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 29

pROSPERITY Partners It’s all about teamwork

By Jacki Hart CLP Prosperity Partners Program Manager

H

ang on to your hats. Here we all go…Boldly into the 2015 green industry season with hopes, budgets, goals, and a team to make it all happen.

One of the hottest topics whenever I get into a room of business owners (whether in the green industry, or not), is the challenge of engaging your employees.

My husband and I (yup, that still sounds a bit surreal) were talking about fresh approaches to a trending challenge. He and his management team sat down last month, and created a list of what they believe the employees in their company want the most. The list follows.

Purpose: Employees want to know the purpose of what they do, and they want to be able to make a valued difference in achieving or accomplishing that purpose.

Goals and objectives: Employees want measureable targets that are clearly communicated. And, they want these defined both for the over-all company and for themselves in terms of performance expectations.

Responsibility: Employees want to be trusted that they can do their job well, and want the training to do so, so that they can be proud of their accomplishments, whether it’s daily or by the project.

Training and educational opportunities: Employees need to expand their knowledge, advance their career path, and want the company to chart the course for them. Off season/winter courses might include not only technical skills training, but complementary skills, such as supervisory, creative or even hobby interest courses.

Autonomy and input: They want the ability to make valued contributions. They want to be able to achieve productivity metrics using their own unique ‘order of operations’ if it’s potentially labour or effort

30 LANDSCAPE ONTARIO APRIL 2015

saving — but achieving the same end result and cost.

Job flexibility and lifestyle management: Our Gen Y and Millennials really want a balance. Gone are the days of workaholics (other than the boss). They perceive their real life to not be at work.

Recognition and attention: Employees want credit where credit is due. They want feedback. They want respect. They want encouragement, mentoring and the tools to succeed.

Freedom to innovate: Today’s employees don’t want to hear, “This is the way we’ve always done it here, so you need to do it our way.” They want to understand the desired outcome, and then have the opportunity to contribute to the plan and process. They want open minded management who will listen to their input, and allow a bit of creativity.

Fair compensation: This might include measurable goals to achieve benefits, bonuses or perks. They want to know where the glass ceiling is, and what they need to know/do in order to move to the next level. And they want to know how much they can make given every range of skill set, qualification and contribution.

No bad apples: They want the jerks fired.

Quickly. Without drama. Bye-bye. Go work somewhere else. Eliminate erosion of team spirit, collaboration, and the need to take sides. If this doesn’t happen, they lose respect for the boss.

Sound familiar? If not, perhaps you’re not listening, especially to the silence,

body language and signals that indicate employees have quit long before they leave.

If you compare this list to Geoffrey James’ 10 Things Employees Want More Than a Raise, which is a great summary of company culture trends, it’s a mirror image. You can search for Geoffrey’s list at inc.com. The cool thing is, the ten items my husband Tim and his team came up with are what’s happening in an established member company here in Ontario.

It’s ear to the ground on current trends in employee culture.

In my opinion, as long as one of the top five challenges business entrepreneurs face remains around staffing and attitudes, employers need to start paying attention to what they can’t hear or see as much as what they can. This requires being observant, patient, listening carefully, and checking your ego at the gate. I honestly believe that the days of 50 and 60 hour work weeks are fading fast, and as employers, those of us who’ve not yet reinvented our company culture, had better start working on it.

Resources to do this include the Build Your Prosperity Workshop, and the Landscape Ontario Peer to Peer Network.

You can email me via info.peertopeer@ landscapeontario.com to find out more info on both of these great LO membership offerings.

Free prosperity tool: 10 ways to reduce stress Spring is undeniably a stressful time in the green industry. There are not enough hours in the day to accomplish everything that needs to be done. The potential for miscommunication by frazzled owners and employees is significant. A free tool from the Prosperity Partners resource library provides 10 simple tips to reduce stress and keep your perspective.

Download these tips at http://gfl.me/x2u0. A wealth of other free resources is available at horttrades.com/prosperitytemplates. The templates are organized by Prosperity Pillar, and can be customized to suit your business needs.

CLASSIFIEDS

employment OPPORTUNITIES

All classified ads must be pre-paid by credit card. Rates: $50.85 (HST included) per column inch Min. order $50.85. 15% discount on ads run for entire calendar year. Box Numbers: Additional $10.

Confidentiality ensured. Deadlines: 20th day of the month prior to issue date. (eg: June issue deadline is May 20th). January deadline is Dec. 10. Space is limited to a first come, first served basis.

To advertise: E-mail your name, phone number and ad to Robert at classifieds@landscapeontario. com or fax to (905) 875-0183. Online advertising: Website only ads are available for $67.80 (HST included) for Associaton members and $90.40 HST included for non-members. Website ads are posted for 31 days. View ads online at www.horttrades.com/classifieds

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For serious inquiries only, please reply in confidence by email to: MuskokaOpportunity@gmail.com

LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE COMPANY FOR SALE Successful, respected and well-established company, serving the Dundas, Hamilton and Burlington area for 25 years. Locally owned and operated, Is looking for a professional and dedicated purchaser. Well-maintained equipment. Dependable staff, loyal customer base. Owner retiring.

For serious inquires only, please reply in confidence by email to: knightspropertymaint@hotmail.com

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Allstone Quarry Products Inc.

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Bot Aggregates Limited

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Braun Nursery Limited

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Connon Nurseries/CBV Holdings Inc. Expressway Hino Waterloo

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www.greenlifenursery.ca

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Greenlife - Ottawa Wholesale Nursery Gro-Bark (Ontario) Ltd. Halton Autolease Inc. Highland Chevrolet/Highland National Leasing JC Rock Ltd.

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www.haltonautolease.com

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www.highlandgm.com

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www.jcrock.ca

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John Deere Corperate

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John Deere Dealers

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Kobes Nurseries Inc.

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Legends Landscape Supply Inc.

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M Putzer Nursery

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Metal Pless Inc.

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Millgrove Perennials Inc.

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Newroads National Leasing

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Nisco National Leasing

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Sipkens Nurseries Ltd.

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www.southoakvillechrysler.com

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www.stamnurseries.com

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South Oakville Chrysler Fiat Stam Nurseries Uxbridge Nurseries Ltd. V. Kraus Nurseries Ltd.

opportunities at davey tree Davey Tree is currently expanding operations and looking for experienced Arborists, Foremen, Climbers, and Groundspersons.

We are the largest employee-owned company in the green industry, and Canada’s trusted source for complete plant health care. Our roots extend back to 1880, and we have branches from Ontario to British Columbia. Davey provides: • Excellent training • Career advancement • Company benefits • Employee ownership • Opportunities in all aspects of arboriculture • Solid industry compensation bases and incentive programs.

If you are interested in being part of our growing team, please email or fax resume to: John Arico.

Email: John.Arico@davey.com Fax: 905-304-7605. www.daveytree.ca

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Landscape Ontario’s Green for Life brand is designed to promote your professional business Landscape Ontario’s Green for Life brand is designed to promote your professional business WWW.HORTTRADES.COM 31

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