Chapter events
For more chapter event listings, visit www.horttrades.com www.horttrades.com.
February 17 GreenTrade Expo 2010 Landsdowne Park, Ottawa Don’t miss the Ottawa Chapter’s annual trade show and seminars for the green industry. Register for free at www.greentrade.ca.
February 25 Windsor Chapter meeting Santerra Stonecraft, 5115 Rhodes Drive, Windsor Join the chapter for lunch, followed by an open forum meeting with a representative from the Ministry of Labour. Also Stefan Fediuk, a City of Windsor landscape architect, will discuss Site Plan Control and its role. Rsvp Jay Riviat at jaytopgrade@hotmail.com, or Chris Power at 519-818-7579. The free pizza lunch is at 12-noon, followed by the meeting at 1:00.
CANADALE NURSERIES wants you to thrive in 2010, here’s how: Right Now:
• In 2010, your customers will be looking for deals more than ever, Let us help you plan your sale schedule in the winter. Use our Great Sale Plants to plan your weekly sale schedule. You need a Plan to be successful this coming year more than ever! Don’t count on unknown last minute sales. • In 2010, set yourself apart with unique plant material. Your customers will still want new and unique plants to make their yards their own. Canadale can help with its Specialty, Unique and New plant lists.
Don’t be disappointed, reserve these plants now! In Season: • Let us ship fresh stock at its prime to you weekly. Shop our ‘Looking Good Lists’ and keep your inventory fresh and appealing. • Sign up for our weekly e-mail: featuring our complete availability, Looking Good Lists and sale plant lists • Let us pre-price your nursery stock (please give us enough notice) so that your staff can focus on selling and up-selling. • Use our signage, posters and POS material to be ‘silent salespeople’ • Rely on our skilled, experienced nursery staff to pick the best plants with maximum sales appeal. 269 Sunset Drive St. Thomas, Ontario N5R 3C4 Phone: (519) 631-1008 Fax: (519) 631-0818 E-mail: tji@canadale.com
2 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
February 25 Toronto Chapter meeting Sheridan Nurseries, 4077 Hwy. 7 E., Unionville The subject of this Toronto Chapter meeting is Elements of a Successful Maintenance Business. It runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., for a cost of $15, lunch included. Discussions include industry leaders, MTO (new chains and straps regulations) and more. Rsvp Stephanie Smith at 1-800-265-5656, ext. 354, email, ssmith@landscapeontario.com. March 2 Durham Chapter Chapter meeting Holiday Inn,1101 Bloor St., Oshawa Durham Chapter’s annual meeting with MTO will begin at 8:30 a.m. It’s an opportunity for members to get ready before the season starts. For more information, contact Carol Fulford at 416-410-3435, or Stephanie at 800-265-5656, ext. 354. March 3 Waterloo Chapter meeting Knights of Columbus, 145 Dearborn Place, Waterloo Landscape designer Haig Seferian will lead a session about outdoor spaces. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. For more information, contact Stephanie Smith at ssmith@ landscapeontario.com. March 9 London Chapter meeting Lamplighter Inn, Royal Palm Room, 591 Wellington Rd. S., London Join the chapter and a representative from Acorus Resoration Native Plant Nursery, who will talk about native plants for our area. Member profile will be Atlas Hardscapes. Social hour is 6 to 7:00 p.m., followed by the meeting. There is no charge for this meeting, sponsored by Hamisco Industrial Sales and MYKE. March 10 Windsor Chapter meeting social Dominion Golf course clubhouse, 6125 Howard Ave., LaSalle Join the chapter members plus Tony DiGiovanni, LO executive director, and Tom Intven, LO president, for a free lunch and social. There will be a short presentation explaining benefits to current and new members. A social begins at noon with the meeting at 1:30. Members are encouraged to bring guests who could be good professional members. For information, contact Jay Rivait jaytopgrade@hotmail.com, or Dan Garlatti dan@garlattilandscape.com
Landscape Ontario and industry events
For more Landscape Ontario and industry event listings, visit www.horttrades.com. Prosperity Partners Roundtable Solutions This professional development day offers a moderated networking opportunity which will focus on improving your business in each of the five prosperity pillars: leadership, financial health, professional operations, sales success, and developing customers for life. This seminar has stemmed from the huge engagement and requests from Prosperity participants who benefited greatly from the networking and discussions during previous seminars. This effective seminar is open to all business owners who have previously attended any Prosperity Partners seminar. Lunch is included. Upcoming dates and times for roundtable discussions are: Feb. 16, Garden Creations of Ottawa, 5100 Bank St., Ottawa, Feb. 25, LO home office, Milton, Mar. 4, Knights of Columbus Hall, 145 Dearborn Place, Waterloo, Mar. 5, Best Western Lamplighter Inn, 591 Wellington Rd, London. More information is available at www.horttrades.com/prosperity. Prosperity Partners Best Practices If you have completed the first Introductory Prosperity Partnership workshop (now known as Building Your Prosperity), this is the next step on your journey. Join landscape professionals and facilitators as they share best practices compiled from the industry champions. Best practices will be looked at in five areas: financial health, professional operations, sales success, leadership and developing customers for life. Cost of seminar includes lunch. Dates and locations of the next seminars are: Feb. 23, LO home office, Milton, Feb. 23, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, 4890 Victoria Ave., N. Lincoln. More information is available at www.horttrades.com/prosperity. February 16 Prosperity Partners Building Your Prosperity Landscape Ontario, 7856 Fifth Line South, Milton The Building Your Prosperity seminar (formerly introductory Prosperity Partnership) will get you started on to the road of success. This program is intended to help green industry members clarify what they excel at and what components of their business needs attention and improvement. A seminar workbook will be provided. Cost of workshop includes lunch. www.horttrades.com/ prosperity.
February 16 - 19 Living Plants, Liveable Communities: Exploring Sustainable Horticulture Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington A four-day symposium on sustainable horticulture is designed for a wide audience. Themes include sustainability of horticultural practices, the roles of horticulture in improving community liveability, innovations in design and practice, greening the built environment, gardens and biodiversity, water management, integrated pest management and others. Contact Queenie Yee, symposium coordinator, at qyee@rbg.ca, 905527-1158, ext. 527. For more information and to register online, visit rbg.ca/cisb/2010symp/ February 17 National Awards of Landscape Excellence in Ottawa Sheraton Hotel, Ottawa The 7th Annual National Awards of Landscape Excellence will take place in Ottawa, on Wed., Feb. 17. This gala event will be held in conjunction with the Green Trade Expo. Landscape Ontario and CNLA will also hold board of directors meetings the same week. Register now! Contact Joe Salemi at the CNLA office at 1-888-446-3499, ext. 8620, or email:joseph@ canadanursery.com to register. Cost is $55 for members and $75 for non-members. Click here to download the registration form. February 17 - 18 Ontario Turfgrass Symposium University of Guelph’s Rozanski Hall The Ontario Turfgrass Symposium offers current and important information regarding the health and management of turf. The Symposium will take place at the University of Guelph’s Rozanski Hall. To register, or for more information go to http://ots.open.uoguelph.ca/, or email info@ open.uoguelph.ca, or call 519-767-5000.
IPM Symposium: Roots of Success Learn the latest strategies and products for promoting plant health — successfully. Feb. 23, Ottawa, Travelodge Hotel, 1376 Carling Ave. – Carleton Ballroom. Mar. 2, London, Best Western Lamplighter Inn, 591 Wellington Rd. – Regency Ballroom. Mar. 9, Barrie, Fenley’s Banquet Hall, 575 Bryne Drive. All sessions begin at 8 a.m. For full details and a registration form, visit www.horttrades.com/ ipm2010. March 5 - 7 Kingston Gardening Expo Portsmouth Olympic Harbour, Kingston, Ontario Contact Dale Baker at (613) 384-0011, ext. 337 March 17 - March 21 Canada Blooms Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place, Toronto Canada Blooms moves to a bright new location the Direct Energy Centre at Exhibition Place. For information on this year’s show, or to register as a volunteer at the show, visit www.canadablooms.com. LO members can purchase discounted tickets to Canada Blooms for $12 from Kathleen Pugliese at the LO office (905) 875-1805, ext. 309 or by e-mail at kpugliese@landscapeontario.com. Members will only be charged for those tickets that are handed in at the gate.
“We keep on growing”
Uxbridge Nurseries
www.uxbridgenurseries.com P.O.BOX 400, UXBRIDGE, ONTARIO L9P 1M8
905.655.3379 FAX: 905.655.8544 1.877.655.3379 sales@uxbridgenurseries.com HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 3
Landscape Ontario staff LO staff members are committed to member service. Please call with your questions or concerns. Tel: (905) 875-1805 or 1-800-265-5656 Fax: (905) 875-3942 Web: www.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. Suffix for all e-mail addresses below: @landscapeontario.com
Executive board
Windsor Chapter
E-mail suffix for all staff members: @landscapeontario.com Executive director Tony DiGiovanni CHT, ext. 304, tonydigiovanni@
President
President: Mark Williams Board rep: Garry Moore
Executive assistant Kathleen Pugliese, ext. 309, kpugliese@
Past president
Garden Centre
Controller Joe Sabatino, ext. 310, jsabatino@
Tom Intven, tintven@ Robert Adams, robertadams@ First vice-president
Tim Kearney CLP, tkearney@
Chair and board rep: Bob McCannell, bmccannell@
Grounds Management
Second vice-president
Chair: Mike DeBoer, CHT Board rep: Brian Marsh
Secretary/treasurer
Growers
Phil Charal, pcharal@ Jacki Hart CLP
Provincial Board Durham Chapter
President: Greg Scarlett Board rep: Mark Humphries, mhumphries@
Georgian Lakelands Chapter
Chairs: Mark Ostrowski Board rep: Dave Braun
Administrative assistant Jane Leworthy, ext. 301, jleworthy@ Membership and chapter coordinator Stephanie Smith, ext. 354, ssmith@ Membership coordinator, London Chapter Wendy Harry, 519-488-0818, wharry@ Manager, information technology Ian Service, 416-848-7555, iservice@
Interior Plantscapes
Manager, Pesticide Industry Council Tom Somerville, tsomerville@
Irrigation
Nursery technical analyst Francesco Pacelli, ext. 377, fpacelli@
Chair and board rep: Stephen Schell CHT Chair: Chris Le Conte Board rep: Steve Macartney CIT, smacartney@
Manager, education and labour development Sally Harvey CHT, CLP, ext. 315, sharvey@
President: Michael LaPorte CHT Board rep: Mark Goodman
Landscape Contractors Chair: Peter Guinane
Education and labour development Kathy McLean, ext. 306, kathym@
Golden Horseshoe Chapter
Lawn Care
Education and labour development Paul Ronan, ext. 349, pronan@
President: Tim Cruickshanks, tcruickshanks@ Board rep: Walter Hasselman
London Chapter
President: Tim Cradduck, tcradduck@ Board rep: Peter Vanderley CLP
Ottawa Chapter
President: Sarah Johnston Board rep: Bruce Morton CLP, CIT
Toronto Chapter
President: Fiona Penn Zieba Board rep: Ryan Heath CLP
Upper Canada Chapter
President: Diana Cassidy-Bush CLP Board rep: Paul Doornbos CHT, CLP, pdoornbos@
Waterloo Chapter President: David Wright Board rep: Mike Hayes
Chair: Steve Tschanz Board rep: Alan White, awhite@
Landscape Design
Project coordinator, Education and labour development Rachel Burt, ext. 326, rachelb@
Chair: Tony Lombardi CLD Board rep: Beth Edney CLD, bedney@
Trade show manager Paul Day CDE, ext. 339, paulday@
Lighting
Trade show sales Lorraine Ivanoff, ext. 366, lpi@
Chair and Board rep: John Higo
Snow and Ice Management
Chair: Ed Hewis Board rep: Gerald Boot CLP, geraldboot@
Members at Large Gregg Salivan Bruce Warren
CNLA Board Rep
Gerald Boot CLP, geraldboot@
For subscription and address changes, please e-mail subscriptions@landscapeontario.com
4 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
Director of public relations Denis Flanagan CLD, ext. 303, dflanagan@ Publisher Lee Ann Knudsen CLP, ext. 314, lak@ Editorial director Sarah Willis, ext. 313, sarahw@ Editor Allan Dennis, ext. 320, aldennis@
Art director Melissa Steep, 647-723-5447, msteep@
The Voice of Landscape Ontario
Views expressed in Horticulture Review are those of the writer concerned. Horticulture Review and Landscape Ontario assume no responsibility for the validity or correctness of any opinions or references made by the author. Copyright 2010, 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: $40.43 per year (GST included).
Sales and business development manager Gilles Bouchard, ext. 323, gbouchard@
Web editor Robert Ellidge, ext. 312, rob@
Horticulture Review February 15, 2010 • Volume 28, No. 2
Trade show coordinator Linda Nodello, ext. 353, lnodello@
ISSN 0823-8472 Publications Mail Agreement No. PM40013519 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses To: Circulation Department Horticulture Review 7856 Fifth Line South Milton, ON L9T 2X8
Graphic designer Mike Wasilewski, ext. 343, mikew@ Sales manager, publications Steve Moyer, ext. 316, stevemoyer@ Communications assistant Angela Lindsay, ext. 305, alindsay@
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
HST will affect sectors in different ways By Tom Intven LO president
A
s of July 2010, the provincial government will impose its new Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). Touted by the government as a panacea for Ontario’s ailing economy, but condemned by others as the biggest cash grab in the province’s history, the HST will have an effect on our members in different ways, depending on their type of business. Growers will likely benefit the most Tom Intven from the new tax. Most growers are classified as farms, and will continue as zero-rated, making purchases without paying any tax. This will apply to fertilizers, pots, pesticides and machinery. There should be a slight net decrease in sales tax, as growers will no longer pay sales tax on trucks, light vans, parts, furniture, lawn mowers, computers freezers and other equipment. Garden centre owners will not see a net change in sales tax on their products like plants and hardgoods. They will, however, need to charge the additional eight per cent provincial portion of the 13 per cent on any services supplied, such as landscape design, tree planting and landscape installation. While they will be credited back for the tax, the fear is that the additional cost to the consumer will have a negative effect in the demand for these services. Retail businesses will need to change accounting and point-of-sales systems to accommodate the new tax. Most businesses with less than $2-million in sales will be eligible for a credit up to $1,000. Our in-house calculations suggest that this will not nearly cover our labour and hardware costs to implement the change-over. Managing cash flow will be one of the biggest challenges for members. For each reporting period, business owners will have to ensure that 13 per cent of their sales are remitted to the government. This can be a huge percentage of a seasonal business’s operating budget. Staying on top of your accounts receivable will become critical to satisfy your tax demands at peak periods. Landscape contractors, lawn care,
grounds maintenance, snow and ice, designers and lighting sectors will be hit the hardest by the additional eight per cent tax levied on labour fees, which comprise a large portion of invoices. A key question for LO members is, will your customers pay the full eight per cent more for services? How much of the eight per cent will our members need to absorb in their fees to survive in a world that has already shrunk operating margins to challenging levels? Cyndee Cherniak, a tax lawyer at Lang Michener in Toronto, is worried that the there will be “another form of underground economy in Ontario created.” She sees it as similar to when the GST came into law, creating problems, particularly in the home improvement market, which governments still grapple with 18 years later. Figuring homeowners will rush to get projects in under the deadline and avoid the tax, the government has also added a May 1 deadline clause, which states that any project ordered by May 1, but not completed by July 1, is subject to the whole 13 per cent tax. But, if the work is completed before July 1, it will be taxed at the current five per cent GST. The immediate effect of the HST is a decrease in disposable income for consumers in Ontario. TD economist Don Drommond calculates it at 1.5 per cent. I would suggest the real level will be much higher. While residents will get a small tax credit cheque and eventually a slight reduction in income tax, I fear the negative effect of this reduction in buying power will be amplified by our ‘recessionhardened’ cautious consumers. The timing of this new tax could not be worse. Consumers have shown tremendous caution and cut back spending during the recession that began in the fall of 2008. I know that in our retail business, the average sale is down more than 10 per cent this past year. All of our price points have had to be lowered in order to generate sales. Big ticket items have disappeared. Our margins have shrunk substantially as a result. This new tax will make consumers even more cautious about any new purchases, particularly for services provided by many of our sector groups that have an additional eight per cent tax added. So, what do we do about it? It is a done deal, the legislation has been passed and the Supreme Court denied an appeal. So, it seems, we have to live with it. Here are a few suggestions that may help
ease the pain to you and your business. • Be prepared in advance. Have everything in place to change your computer systems over well in advance of the July 1 deadline. There’s nothing worse than scrambling at the last minute for a major change like this. • Apply for your point-of-sale/computer update grant early and often. (I could not find any grant forms available on the Government of Ontario website. Ask your accountant to forward them to you as soon as they come available.) • Do a cash flow study to determine your extra cash needs, especially in the peak spring season. An additional line of credit may be needed if your accounts receivables run past your HST due date. • Increase your accounts receivable monitoring and communication. On-time collection will be more critical for your business in coming years. • Tighten up your credit application requirements and forms as the effect of slow-payers will be amplified by the HST. • On the other side of the coin, pay your bills on time. • Choose a pricing strategy to help ease the burden for your customers. • If you plan to absorb the extra eight per cent on your labour charges, add what you need to maintain margin in your January pricing, averaging it out over the entire year. If you plan to add it after July 1, make sure you advise your clients well in advance to allow them to build it into their budgets. Either way, keep your customers in the loop. No one like surprises. • Offer ‘pre-HST’ discount packages well in advance for your services. • Apply for and take advantage of all tax credits available to your business and yourself, personally. • Raise your business acumen by enrolling in one of the many financial and business competency courses offered by Landscape Ontario, especially Prosperity Partners. • Network more often at LO Chapter meetings and LO Sector functions with like-minded professionals to help develop a strategy to navigate through the transition. Tom Intven may be reached at 519-631-1008, or tintven@landscapeontario.com.
HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 5
Major buzz surrounds Congress 2010
F
rom attendees to exhibitors, reactions were unanimous: Congress 2010 was a smash hit. And, success wasn’t measured in just positive comments, as hard numbers prove this year’s event was a triumph. Overall attendance showed a 22 per cent increase over last year. And those attendees were in the mood to do business, as exhibitors report great contacts, with some making a number of good business deals. The increased attendance numbers began on Mon., Jan. 11, with the conferences. Each session needed additional seating brought in to handle the extra participants. Results show attendance numbers: 164 at the IPM Symposium, 72 at the irrigation conference, 177 at the landscape designers’ conference, 68 at the OPA’s 54th Annual Conference, and 15 attending the CLP Financial Management Study Group. “There were a number of factors at play this year that resulted in success at Congress,” said show manager Paul Day. “Of course the weather had a lot to do with it, but there was also the fact that many members of our industry are buoyed by the improving economy and that Congress has become the place to be in order to see what’s new in the industry.” Day also felt that partnerships with the Canadian Fence Industry Association, Communities in Bloom and the Ontario Parks Association, and the Mayors’ Breakfast, make Congress a must-attend event. “The status of Congress improves every year,” said Day. The trade show began Tuesday, with over 60 Ontario mayors attending a special Green Eggs Breakfast. The event initiated the Green Forum at Congress, hosted by Landscape Ontario, the Ontario Parks Association and Communities in Bloom. Through a special arrangement with Via Rail, the mayors and elected officials were trans-
ported to the breakfast on the Mayors’ Express trains that ran from Ottawa and Windsor. Sponsors of the event included Alfa Products, Via Rail Canada, Tradewinds International, MMM Group, Porter Airlines, Unilock, Doubletree by Hilton Toronto Airport, City of London, Muskoka in the City and Nuworld Research and Development – Div of MMC Ontario. The breakfast was followed by Toronto Mayor David Miller, with a pair of golden hedge shears in hand, snipping the ribbon at the official opening ceremonies of Congress 2010. Following the opening ceremonies, the delegation was led by a piper in full Scottish regalia to a special presentation of an environment award from Landscape Ontario to Mayor Miller and the City of Toronto. The award was presented by LO’s executive director Tony DiGiovanni, who said that Mayor Miller’s core value is environmental stewardship. “I’m privileged on behalf of the City of Toronto to receive Landscape Ontario’s Environment Award,” said Miller. Tuesday night featured LO’s Awards of Excellence Show. See page 8 in this issue for the special award winners, and go to www. loawards.com/2009winners.php for a complete list and photos of the winning entries. Green for Life Award Winners of the inaugural Green for Life Award were announced Jan. 13, at Congress’ Tailgate Party. The winner of the contractor award was Appleby Landscaping of Milton, with Lemkey Landscape Design of Winnipeg, Man. winning the design category and Clintar Landscape Management of Mount Hope taking the prize in the lawn care. The Green for Life Award recognizes and awards environmentally responsible companies in the horticulture, landscape construction
6 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
and design industry. Winners were drawn from participants completing the Environmental Scorecard. There were 472 entries, including 287 from Ontario. In congratulating the Green for Life Award winners, Nathan Helder, chair of LO’s Environmental Stewardship Committee and awards judge, said, “Environmental assessments are a tool that businesses can use annually to make continuous, incremental improvements and become even more environmentally responsible.” Turf Revolution sponsored the Green for Life Awards. Best booth awards Best booth and best promotion awards were presented to the following winners in each of the six categories: • Stone-Link Corp. of Woodbridge for the best of show booth. “Stone-Link Corp.’s booth was unmatched from top to bottom,” said John Neofotistos, one of the contest’s judges. “They utilized every ounce of space and incorporated multi-leveled areas causing all the elements to flow together,” he continued. • In the heavy equipment category, Kubota Canada of Markham. • Winner of the small equipment category, Echo Power Equipment from London. • The best booth, excluding heavy equipment, under 100 sq. ft., Xero Flor Canada from Mississauga. • Santerra Stonecraft from Windsor, category for booths between 100 and 400 sq. ft. • Permacon Corporation from Milton, for over 400 sq. ft. Turf Revolution received the award for the best promotion. The award is presented to the exhibitor who best develops strategic and
measurable marketing campaigns to promote their participation in advance of Congress. Over 400 ballots were cast to decide the winners of the best new product displayed in the New Products exhibit. Xero Flor Canada’s Green Roof Systems won the vote, followed by Rubaroc Rubaflank and Bosman Patio Bar Set and Husqvarna solar automower. There were 41 green products and 68 new products submissions showcased in the showcase. Seminars well attended Education is a major component at Congress. This year saw great conference attendance numbers. A number of positive comments were received from attendees. One was about Jim Paluch’s session on the Risks and Rewards of Change: “Very helpful. Jim forces you to dig deep within yourself to find the answers you need in this business to succeed.” And this about Jacki Hart’s talk on Prosperity Partners: A Career that’s Great for Life! “Best landscape seminar
I’ve attended in three years. It was relevant to me and where I am in my business in Alberta (LANTA)!” Partners happy “The Ontario Parks Association is pleased to report that the 2010 edition of the Explorations and Educational Forum was a great success,” said Paul Ronan, OPA executive director. “The decision to join with Landscape Ontario and combine the two trade shows and educational components proved a hit with our delegates. Based on this year’s success, OPA will be enhancing our educational and trade show components for next year,” continued Ronan. “I received lots of positive responses from all of my Fencecraft exhibitors who thought Congress was a great show,” said Evie Isenberg, of the Canadian Fence Industry Association. “Our association was happy to be a part of Congress once again. We look forward to partnering with Landscape Ontario in 2011.”
Toronto Mayor David Miller officially opens Congress
Congress 2010 Sponsors Landscape Ontario thanks the following sponsors for their generous support of Congress. Platinum, Ariens/Gravely and Banas Stones; Gold, Chrysler Canada, Global Arch – Natural Stone Wholesale – Stone Arch, Via Rail Canada; Silver, Doubletree by Hilton Toronto Airport, Turf Revolution, Landscape Trades; Bronze, Bobcat of Hamilton, Devtra, Sittler Environmental,
Toronto Argonauts Football Club, Vermeer Canada, Whiteoak Ford Lincoln Sales.
John Deere Landscapes
Designers’ Conference sponsors Platinum, Blue Sky Nursery; Gold, Unilock, HGH Granite; Silver, Astley Gilbert Bronze, CNLA. Irrigation Conference sponsors Toro, Hunter Industries/Irritol, Rainbird, Turf Care Products, Vanden Bussche,
Legacy Room sponsors Nutrite (a division of Fertichem), Kubota Canada, Vanden Bussche Irrigation, Connon Nurseries/NVK Holdings, Stihl, Oaks Concrete Products, Echo Power Equipment (Canada), Agrium Advanced Technologies, HortProtect, Beaver Valley Stone, Redbud Supply.
Congress 2010 Volunteers Congress Committee Scott Beaudoin, Diana Cassidy-Bush CLP, Terry Childs, Brian Cocks CHT, Doug Coote, Paul DeGroot, Barry Dickson, Beth Edney CLD, Nathan Helder, Michael LaPorte CHT, Brian Lofgren (Chairman), Bob McCannell, Nick Solty, Klaas Sikkema, Jack VandeRee CHT, Monica van Maris
James McGlashan, Kevin O’Hara, Adele Pierre, Irina Polstvin, Greg Redshaw, Christine van den Bogerd, Ernest van Helsdingen, Garret Van Santen, Ryan Webb, Keri Wilby CHT.
(supervision of John Lein, LAT), Niagara College (supervision of Mike Hoekstra), Kemptville Campus of University of Guelph (supervision of Dr. Darren Robinson)
New and Green Product Showcase Martha Walsh, Terry Childs and Michael LaPorte
Conference volunteers Candice Avery, Patrick Biller, Emily Bright, Irene Bultena, MaryAnne Davies, Anna DiCarlo, Tim Emmons, Jennifer Emmons, Jim Gray, Gillian Hargreaves, John Harsevoort, Ann Hollings, Ann Jakins, Michael Kettner, Liz Klose, John Lamberink, Greg Mais, Laura McCaul, Jeff McDonald,
Student Gardens The student gardens were supervised by Brian Cocks and Michael LaPorte. The following schools participated: Bendale Business andTechnical Institute (supervision of Shane Jones), Humber College (supervision of Harry Chang), Fanshawe College (supervision of Michael Pascoe CHT), St. Clair College
LO booth Suppliers of products and services: Connon Nurseries, NVK holdings Camilla House Imports Moonstruck Landscape Lighting Permacon; Volunteers, Lisa Orridge, Jason Anderson, Diana Cassidy Bush CLP, Jay Stevens, Candice Avery, Paul De Groot, Jack VanderRee, Paul Doornbos CHT, CLP, Carl Hastings, Geneva Tubby and John Harsevoort.
HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 7
LO celebrates achievement at annual Awards show
T
he high level of excellence and professionalism among LO members was again recognized at the 37th annual Awards of Excellence. As part of Congress 2010, Landscape Ontario’s version of the Oscars, featured a gala evening of ceremony and special acknowledgements. Frank Ferragine and Mark Cullen cohosted the evening, announcing the winners in the construction, maintenance, landscape design and interior plantscaping categories. A complete list of those winners can be found on www. loawards.com. A number of special awards were handed out during the evening. First up was the Government Individual Award for Dedication to Horticulture. John O’Rourke, with the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities was recognized as an important element of Upper Canada’s efforts in the horticultural apprenticeship program. John Wright, president of the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation, read the list of scholarship recipients. They include, high school level: Jordan Albers, Derek Brick, David Charpentier, Telesphore Marie, Sean May, Matthew Owen, Delor Popplewell, Shane Rea and Jackie van der Heyden; post secondary recipients: Amanda Barr, Algonquin College, Shane Benish, Humber College, Patrick Biller, Niagara Parks, Tory Carmichael, Algonquin College, Richard Fournier, Fanshawe, Kayleigh Holden, Fanshawe, Jessica Horsburgh, St. Clair College, John Levesque, St. Clair College, Miriam Palmer, Fanshawe College, Katie Rettig, St. Clair College, Robert Toste, Sir Sanford Fleming
In an emotional moment, LO president Bob Adams receives the president’s ring from past president Bob Tubby.
Barbara Rosensweig (centre) and Barb Welburn of The Cultivated Garden of Toronto received the inaugural Don Salivan Award for Grounds Management, presented by Gregg Salivan in memory of his father.
College, and Christine van den Bogerd, Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture. The Casey van Maris Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Henry Sikkema from Niagara College and the Tony DiGiovanni Scholarship went to Sonny Parkes from the Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture. A re-named award this year was the Don Salivan Award for Grounds Management. On stage to present the award in the memory of his father was Gregg Salivan. “I can’t think of any higher honour for my father than to have this prestigious award – the very symbol of the best maintenance quality in the province – now carry his name.” The inaugural winner is The Cultivated Garden of Toronto for the Badeau residence. The Casey van Maris Award was presented to Oriole Landscaping of Toronto. This award is given to the project deemed to have the most innovative and unique execution of design from all of the submitted construction projects. Casey van Maris’ granddaughter, Cassie Zalewski presented the award. “It is a truly special thing to be asked to present an award that is named after your grandfather. I know he would have been quite humbled at how this association keeps his name and spirit alive with this prize.” President of the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, Cary van Zanten of British Columbia, presented the CNLA President’s Award to Karl Stensson, president of Sheridan Nurseries, for his “30-plus years as a trailblazer, leader among peers and industry, and a very passionate volunteer who always has industry’s best intentions at heart.” In an emotional presentation, immedi-
8 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
ate past president Bob Adams accepted the president’s ring from Bob Tubby CLP. “There are few LO members of who care about our association as deeply as Bob Adams. Even during a serious stroke a number of years ago, his thoughts were with Landscape Ontario,” said Tubby. “Bob Adams demonstrated his commitment to the association by attempting to participate in every single activity that the association organizes.” Prestigious Award One of the most prestigious awards is the Dunington-Grubb Award. The 2010 winner is Tumber and Associates of Orangeville. This award goes to the most outstanding and highestoverall-scoring project in the construction categories. Randy Tumber CHT, CLD, received the award from Karl Stensson. Nathan Helder of Jan Gelderman Landscaping, chair of LO’s environmental committee, presented the Frank Ewald Junior Award 2010 to Michael LaPorte CHT, of Clearview Nursery, Stayner. This award is presented to a member of Landscape Ontario, or an employee, who has not yet reached his 36th birthday and has made an outstanding effort in the promotion and betterment of our association. LaPorte is currently the youngest serving president of the Georgian Lakelands Chapter. The Garden Communicator’s Award this year went to Rob Howard of the Hamilton Spectator. The award is given to a writer or broadcaster who consistently produces a high level of quality in the field of horticulture through his or her efforts in communication.
Three Past President’s Awards were given out this year. This award is given to recipients who, over many years, have made outstanding contributions to the association: Gavin Dawson of Greenlawn, Mississauga, Beth Edney CLD, of Designs by the Yard, Toronto, and Monica van Maris, an honorary life member, past president of LO, Building Management, Show Committee, By-Law Committee chair, and past chair of the IPM Symposium. A special surprise came when her grandson Alex Zalewski came on stage to present the award. Lorne Haveruk CIT, of DH Water Management Services, Toronto, received the Water Conservation Award from last year’s winner Chris Le Conte. The honour is given
to an irrigation project that demonstrates water stewardship, conservation and innovation while maintaining thriving landscapes. Given only in exceptional circumstances to an individual achieving an outstanding contribution in the field of horticulture, the Trillium Award this year went to Adam Bienenstock, Gardens for Living, of Dundas. Gardens for Living has introduced an entirely new sector of the landscape industry, helping to promote economic benefits and green jobs, raising awareness for the societal benefits of green infrastructure and helping to develop a new generation that respects nature. The Prosperity Partners Leadership Award went to former LO president Bob Tubby of Arbordale Landscaping/Moonstruck Landscape
Lighting, Toronto. He received the award from new LO president Tom Intven. Six recipients were on hand to accept the Prosperity Partners Business Engagement Award. They are: Bill Beamish, Beamish Landscape Services, St.Thomas; Mark Fisher, The Escarpment Company, Milton; Ryan Heath CLP, Ryan Heath Professional Landscaping, Keswick; Erin Schuler, Create It! Williamsburg; Hetty Teuber, Silverthorn Landscape Supplies, St.Thomas; and Jason Zehr and Mike Wardel, Rural Roots Landscaping, London. Volunteer judges for the 2010 Awards of Excellence were Harry Chang, Don Chase CLD, Alistair Johnston, Ron Koudys CLD, Jeff McMann CHT, and Bruce Peart.
Engagement shows at AGM “Another first for Landscape Ontario,” said proud outgoing president Bob Adams, about the record crowd of members attending the association’s Jan. 13 annual general meeting. A technical glitch prevented the sound man from playing ‘O Canada,’ but the members jumped right in a cappella, reinforcing the meeting’s positive spirit. Dr. Jim Brandle of Vineland Research and Innovation Centre gave an outline of his organization’s growth, and thanked LO for its support on ornamental horticulture projects. The Centre’s structure allows contributions from our industry to be leveraged many times over. CNLA representative Gerald Boot CLP, reported on the ever-increasing value LO members receive through our national association. After two years of exhaustive work, a recommendation from the By-law Committee was adopted. Non-active members may now serve on LO’s provincial board under certain limited conditions. Bob Adams reflected on his term by sharing photos of the many events he participated in across Ontario. He said, “You, the member, are the reason this association exists. We are a family, a team, and we are Green for Life in all we do. A good team succeeds.” He gave special recognition to a lovely lady respected by all, Mrs. Tracey Adams. Tony DiGiovanni’s executive director’s report was another highlight of the meeting. He quantified LO’s effectiveness by adding up the number of times LO reaches out through events, chapters, conferences, publications and other initiatives: LO makes an astonishing 254,800 contacts with industry members over the course of a year. According to him, the industry’s new public profile affirms that horticulture has “quantifiable environmental and economic benefits.” Incoming president Tom Intven shared his thoughts on the industry’s future by stating that leadership is more important than ever. His vision is to help green industry members become stronger leaders through LO initiatives, and the theme he has chosen to express that goal is “Prosperity through Engagement.” He finished by expressing member gratitude perfectly with his tribute to Bob Adams. Another highly respected LO member received a special tribute; Tony DiGiovanni recognized outgoing board member Bob Tubby CLP, for his generous work in founding the Prosperity Partnership. Meeting participants formalized members of the new board for 2010, shown on page 4. New business items included a request to implement a
new general manager position, which was defeated, and a request to review LO’s chapter funding formula, which carried. Gerald Boot closed the meeting in a special, spontaneous acknowledgement of “the person who has gracefully put up with members’ strengths and weaknesses for 20 years, Tony DiGiovanni.” Boot led participants in thanking LO’s executive director for moving the association forward.
Stam Nurseries Inc. m Custoing digg able avail
Your source of quality shade trees and evergreens Phone: (519) 424-3350 Fax (519) 456-1659 E-mail: info@stamnurseries.com
www.stamnurseries.com HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 9
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Great energy continues from Congress 2010 Tony DiGiovanni CHT LO executive director
T
his article was written the day after Congress. What a wonderful week it was! Positive energy flowed from approximately 13,000 people. Great weather, exceptional conferences and a large vibrant trade show led to outstanding attendance. Here are some highlights.
Tony DiGiovanni
Pre-Congress seminars Over 600 registered for the education programs the day before Congress.
This is a new record. The Landscape Designers Symposium was a huge success, prompting numerous responses, such as “awesome” and “best ever.” This was the first year we collaborated with the Ontario Parks Association. Equally positive comments came from the attendees and staff who took part in OPA’s 54th annual Education Forum. The IPM Symposium, Certified Landscape Professional Program and Irrigation Group Conference were also hits. Great collaboration Speaking of collaboration, Communities in Bloom Ontario, Ontario Parks Association and Landscape Ontario all worked to bring over 63 mayors, elected officials and key staff to Congress to discuss the greening of communities. In keeping with the green theme, Via Rail sponsored two trains, one bringing delegates from Windsor and the other from Ottawa. Toronto Mayor David Miller presided over the opening ceremonies and delivered a passionate speech about the importance of green communities. His talk was followed by Lawson Oates, director of the Toronto Environment Office, Steven Peck, founder of Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, and Keith Kerman, director of the City of New York Parks Department. As the original green industry, we have a wonderful story to tell. Bringing mayors and elected officials directly to Congress to witness our size, scope and energy “raises the volume” and reinforces our message of societal benefit. This type of event would never have happened without collaboration. If you have not attended an Awards of
Excellence program before, you should consider doing so next year. It is the Oscars of the Ontario landscape industry. Our members’ work is remarkable in creativity, excellence and quality. This year two of the industry’s best ambassadors, Frank Ferragine and Mark Cullen, cohosted the show. Both gentlemen are united in passion for the industry and are perennial contributors to the association’s community. Executive committee highlights Traditionally the executive committee meets the day before Congress to discuss priorities for the year. Here is a summary of the discussion. The committee and new board would love your feedback. The group agreed on the following areas of focus for 2010. • Understanding the needs of our members: Association services and programs must enhance the lives of the membership and be delivered in ways that are responsive to their busy lifestyle. We need to spend time listening in order to continually improve our offering • Helping members thrive in the new economy: We will continue our focus on business development by using the Prosperity Partners program as the framework. We will promote the concept of “leveraging strengths” as a technique to vastly improve the performance of your company, while stimulating renewed energy, enthusiasm and passion in your team. We will also ramp-up technical education programs by adding different levels. There will be renewed emphasis on horticultural information. • Public awareness: We have a remarkable story to tell the public. We offer many life-enhancing benefits as an industry. The Green for Life program will be used as the symbol of our public communication activities. We will also align with the green movement and explore the idea of developing an Ontariowide community environmental program, such as waterfront cleanup, Day of Tribute, Bravery Park Movement, Arbor Week, etc. • Chapter renewal: We will strive to make Landscape Ontario more relevant in the local community by delivering programs and activities in an optimum fashion according to the first priority (understanding members’ needs as outlined above).
10 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
• Company accreditation: The idea of creating a membership journey of excellence by providing the tools, resources, coaching and accountability processes will be explored. Two principles of this investigation will be accessibility and mentorship. • Membership recruitment: The membership campaign has already begun. • Peer network groups: We will explore the idea of developing a province-wide peer network program (roundtables). Annual General Meeting The new president is Tom Intven from Canadale Nurseries. Tom has observed that financial, social education and personal growth flow from participation and “engagement” with the association programs, activities, network and community. Consequently, the theme of his presidency will be “Prosperity through Engagement.” Our staff team has already embraced the concept to guide our development in support of the membership. After many years of service on the Board of Directors, Bob Tubby will be transitioning off to join the elite past presidents’ club. His contributions have been immense. Bob’s vision, caring nature, business acumen, professionalism, quiet competence, thoughtfulness and personal integrity reflect the ethic and aspirations of the Landscape Ontario community. Bob made it his mission to help members improve their business skills. The Prosperity Partners concept was initiated during his tenure as president and he continues to chair the committee that is responsible for that program. He demonstrates his caring personality to competitors, fellow members, employees, students and friends by always being ready to help others prosper financially, professionally and personally. Here is the secret of its success: Landscape Ontario is a reflection of the spirit and enthusiasm of many amazing, hard working, contributionoriented, principle-centred, forward-thinking members who care about the industry, the public they serve and each other. Have a great 2010! See you at Canada Blooms. Tony DiGiovanni may be reached at tonydigiovanni@landscapeontario.com.
PROFESSIONAL AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Our industry has a very bright future By Sally Harvey CHT, CLP Education and labour development department
I
n January, I had the opportunity to participate in a Horticulture Value Chain Roundtable Workshop on Labour Issues in Ottawa. We met with industry leaders from across Canada. Our goal was to develop a competitive advantage for our industry by addressing labour challenges. By doing this, it was felt we could ensure the creation of a sustainable workforce for our industry’s future. The vision of this initiative is captured in the following statements found in the Labour Issues in the Horticulture Sector: Draft Final Report, prepared for the Horticulture Value Chain Roundtable – Labour Working Group: “In 2016, industry participants will be responsible in their role as international leaders in the innovative, sustainable and efficient use of water and energy resources and notable practitioners of best practices leading to safe, high quality horticultural products. The industry will be prosperous given its access to competitively priced labour and transportation assets and the yields received from having continuously invested in innovative technologies that have kept the horticulture sector on the leading edge of efficiency in an increasingly competitive world.” Data gathered for this workshop resulted in a very optimistic outlook among participants. One such example is found in the following statement issued by the group, “Horticulture constitutes a significant component of the Canadian economy. Commodity production in horticulture has experienced consistent, double-digit growth over the past 10 years (Deloitte, 2009) and has reached just less than $5.2 billion in sales in 2008 (OMAFRA Statistics).” To put it simply in our terms, in 2008, Canadian consumers spent $1.8 billion on landscaping services and $6.3 billion at retail for ornamental horticulture products (Deloitte, 2009). This is a good news story and reinforces that the Canadian landscape horticulture industry has a very bright future, but only if we provide a level of professionalism and value that meets or exceeds consumer expectations. In order to create this sustainable workforce, the report suggests that we address three key priorities:
1) F ocus on promotion and image of the sector and career awareness for domestic labour by promoting the sector to elementary and secondary students and staff, along with improving human resource management strategies among employers in the industry. 2) Focus on business development in post secondary programs and in the industry to elevate the level of professionalism, to improve employee retention, to improve leadership skills which in turn will lead to increased innovation and improved competitiveness. 3) Develop cultural diversity training for both domestic and foreign workers to improve communication, safety and productivity. I can tell you that Landscape Ontario is working diligently, striving to provide our industry with opportunity for growth and development in these areas, based on your feedback. We will continue to listen to our members in order to ensure continued relevance. We are definitely experiencing success with solid attendance at Congress 2010, at the fall/winter seminars, at the colleges and apprenticeship programs, and the Chapter educational events. The hot topics remain: • Business development (sound fiscal practices, leadership development, sales and marketing, etc.) • Safety and compliance • Supervisor skill development • Environmentally sound horticultural practices and products • Technical skill development • Apprenticeship • Certification
ment for you and your staff, as you strive to meet the challenges that we will face in serving an increasingly well-researched consumer. An established, trained and motivated team will optimize our businesses in the future. I personally encourage you to take advantage of the cost effective professional and technical development opportunities that we offer at Landscape Ontario. Go to www.horttrades. com to research the opportunities awaiting you and your teams. Be part of the change. Let’s work to improve our level of professionalism to attract our youth and second career candidates. By investing in your future and the future of your staff today and tomorrow, together we will build an industry recognized as a viable, professional career choice, that offers opportunity for advancement, and provides a safe workplace and that is recognized by the consumer as a professional and ethical industry. Contact Sally at sharvey@ landscapeontario.com to discuss your training and development plans.
The level of enthusiasm and energy at Congress 2010 was contagious. It convinced me that our industry will continue to grow, even during a slower economy. However, we must challenge ourselves to not only grow as an industry, but better yet thrive through solid business management and leadership, innovative technical skill and product development, all within a safe environment. Only then will we appeal to more Ontarians that we do provide amazing career opportunities. Facing challenges and achieving growth are important issues for most of us, whether we are entrepreneurs, supervisors or technicians. It is so important to provide a learning environHORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 11
PUBLIC RELATIONS
Red roses and Blue Jays By Denis Flanagan CLD Director of public relations
Helping To Build Your Business!
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h, February, the month of spring training and Valentines. It always reminds me of one of my favourite stories in the business. I was working for Weall and Cullen in one of their retail stores. It was Feb. 14, at about 4 p.m., and there was the usual lineup of guys at the florist counter waiting to pick up the dozen red roses that they had remembered to order at about 3 p.m. The women behind the counter were all in a tizzy, because half-way down the lineup they had noticed the handsome and talented Paul Molitor of the previous season’s world champion Toronto Blue Jays (see stats below). There he was waiting patiently in line. I was coerced to go and ask him if he would come to the Denis Flanagan back room and sign a couple of autographs. He was very obliging and signed some flower calendars and aprons (unique items, no doubt now worth thousands of dollars on e-Bay!). The florist then asked how many roses he would like wrapped up. He actually refused any special treatment and insisted on getting back in the line to await his turn. I always think how fitting it was that this wonderful gesture took place in a garden store setting. That’s because this industry seems blessed with so many humble people who continue to contribute to society, without looking for any special recognition. So, I am going to pitch out a challenge. If you know someone who you work with that has gone out of their way to improve your community, please send us the story. Sports writers make sure players get the recognition they deserve and our horticultural writers will do the same for the Green for Life heroes in our field. Please send nominations for MVP (most valuable planter) to me at dflanagan@landscapeontario.com, and include as many details as possible. Including photographs would be great.
Molitor’s stats
Nursery Sales RR #4 – 12302 10th Line Georgetown, Ontario Tel: 416-798-7970 Fax: 905-873-9591 E-mail: sales@sheridannurseries.com
12 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
Paul Molitor was acquired through free agency by the Toronto Blue Jays in December 1992, and was a key part of the Blue Jays’ second World Championship. Molitor won the World Series MVP Award and tied a World Series record by batting 12-24 (.500) in the six-game series. In 1993 Molitor led the AL in plate appearances, with 675, and hits (211). In 1994, a strikeshortened season, Molitor led the AL in games played (115) and singles (107). He also stole 20 bases that season without ever being caught, one short of the major league record of 21.
SYSTEMS FOR SUCCESS
Time to prepare a sales budget By Mark Bradley
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n our previous article, Dan and Bill discussed how Dan must focus on growing his company’s profits, rather than its size, if he hopes to turn things around. Dan also learned that he must base his hiring decisions on meaningful numbers and not assumptions, and that his operating budget can be used as a managing tool to turn his projections into reality. In this month’s article, Dan and Bill disMark Bradley cuss a key piece of his operating budget: the sales budget. Bill spent about half-an-hour on the telephone preparing Dan for his first sales budget. Dan understood how to read his previous numbers from his Profit and Loss Statement, but still wasn’t comfortable making future projections. Bill insisted that Dan be realistic in his projections, and the logic behind this was simple: it’s a lot easier to spend money than it is to find it. And, it’s better to exceed your sales’ forecasts rather than to not achieve them. Dan also decided to cap Danscaping’s growth and focus on improving its profits. After all was said and done, his company had made less than $2,000 last year, and this tempted Dan to throw in the towel. But quitting wasn’t in him. He worked hard all his life, and he was determined to apply this same work ethic into regaining control over his business. Thanks to Bill, Dan now understood that his operating budget was the best tool to help him achieve his plan for profit by enabling him to: • Build measurable goals • Develop a greater awareness of his business and make calculated decisions to achieve its goals • Simulate the effect of changes to his sales and expenses and determine how these will impact his bottom line, before they happen in reality Dan finished putting the numbers together and emailed Bill the results. After a few days, Bill called him back to discuss his work. “I see you’ve decided to cap your growth this year,” noted Bill. “I have,” said Dan. “I think you were right. I need to hold steady until I fix Danscaping’s
problems. It makes more sense.” “That’s a wise decision, Dan. Now, did you put much thought into these numbers?” asked Bill. “I did. I looked at last year’s numbers every which way I could. I’m sure we can keep those numbers steady. I dropped the construction revenues slightly, but I increased our snow revenues. It’s easier for us to manage the snow work, so I think we can realistically achieve those goals.” “Sounds like a logical plan, and I bet you’re starting to appreciate how much easier it is to make such key decisions using a budget,” said Bill. “There’s no two ways about it, Bill. Knowing the results of my decisions before I even make them is like having a time machine that I can use to travel into the future, survey the situation, and come back with a list of changes that will make things better,” said Dan. “I also never realized how much potential for profit there is right inside my company until I took such a close look at its numbers,” he continued. “This is only the beginning, Dan. Your company’s true potential will become even clearer to you once you have more experience using your budget,” said Bill. “Now about your sales budget; last year you worked on your biggest project, right?” asked Bill. “Yes, the Danson project was an $80,000 job, but it was a complete mess. I’m just glad it’s over.” “Perhaps, but that’s a lot of revenue you’ll need to replace next season,” said Bill. “What is your average job size?” “I’d say in the range of $10,000 to $15,000,” said Dan. “Do you have another job the size of the Danson project lined-up for this year?” asked Bill. “No, and I can live without another headache like that job! Our crews and the general contractor on the Danson project always butted heads. We also never received the information we needed on time, they kept adding work mid-stream, and they never paid bills on time!” exclaimed Dan. “OK, but based on your average job size, you need to sell six to eight jobs this year to make up for that missing revenue. Can you close those extra sales? Do you already have any work sold for next year?” asked Bill. “In fact, I do.” said Dan. “I’m working on a few referrals already.” “And, isn’t your biggest snow contract up
for tender again?” asked Bill. “Yes,” said Dan, “but so is their other property on the other side of town. I’ve already spoken to the facilities manager and he wants us back again this year. If we win both jobs, we’ll easily hit our snow targets.” “That would be the best scenario. But do you remember how last year you called us looking for salt because you didn’t have enough to service your properties and were taking some heat for it? Have you considered that you may need more this year?” asked Bill. “I have,” said Dan, “When I was making my plan, I called my supplier and he agreed that if I win the contracts, I can set up a pre-purchase plan that will guarantee my supply. They’ll also split the payments up from December through March.” “Excellent,” said Bill. “You’re already starting to take action to achieve your plan for profit, and I’m sure you’re beginning to appreciate how your plan forces you to improve your tactics.” When he’d completed his sales budget, Dan had felt more engaged in his business than he had felt in years. “You’re right, Bill. I don’t think I truly understood how the pieces we’ve been talking about all tie together until now,” said Dan. “I thought I did, but the numbers bring clarity.” “Now don’t get too caught up in these sales numbers just yet,” said Bill. “We’ve only begun to scratch the surface; you still have to verify your plan, and then build expense budgets that will help you control and minimize costs while achieving your sales plan. This process gets a lot easier with experience. Let me review your payroll numbers and I’ll get back to you.” To be continued next issue Wish you knew someone like Bill to help steer your company in the right direction? Join LMN and Landscape Ontario for Seize Control: Your Operating Budget workshop series. Bring your company’s numbers, and leave with an operating budget and pricing system built specifically for your company. For more information go to www.landscapemanagementnetwork.com, email workshop@landscapemanagementnetwork.com, or call 1-888-347-9864. Mark Bradley is president of The Beach Gardener and the Landscape Management Network (LMN), providing education, tools and systems built to improve landscape industry businesses.
HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 13
Vineland Centre welcomes new members to the team Vineland Research and Innovation Centre has announced five new members to its growing research team. “It is a pleasure to announce the addition of new staff to the Vineland team. These individuals bring their knowledge, commitment and enthusiasm to partnerships with our Canadian horticulture stakeholders and will help build a stronger, more competitive industry,” said Dr. Jim Brandle, CEO. The five appointments include: Michael Kauzlaric, Travis Banks, Dr. Rumen Conev, Dr. Ben Campbell, and Dr. Rose Buitenhuis. Dr. Conev earned his PhD from the Plovdiv Agrarian University, Bulgaria, followed by postdoctoral research in Japan, Israel and Canada. He brings experience in ornamental plant breeding at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. He will work to develop germplasm with novel traits in high value crops. Dr. Rose Buitenhuis, Research Scientist Biological Control, is an entomologist specializing in integrated pest management and biological control in horticulture. At Vineland, she will focus on insect biocontrol, beginning with biological thrips control in greenhouse ornamentals. Kauzlaric is a native of the Niagara region, who grew up on a tender fruit and grape operation. He comes to Vineland with an Associate Diploma (Agr.) and a B.Sc. (Agr) from the University of Guelph. Kauzlaric will assist Vineland stakeholders in searching for new technologies of value to the horticulture sector. Banks specializes in bioinformatics. He joins Vineland following seven years with
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. His research will focus on integrating data from molecular technologies into breeding programs, and developing software to facilitate scientific discovery. Dr. Campbell, Research Scientist Horticulture Economics, comes to Vineland from Texas A&M University, where he completed post doctorate research. His work will target horticulture market expansion through the introduction of new or enhanced products.
“As our research capacity grows, we also enhance our ability to partner with research departments in both levels of government, industry and with academia and other research institutions. We are building a stronger research network that is accessible and responsive to the needs of Canadian horticulture industry from grower through to retail,” said Donald Ziraldo, chair, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre.
Safety Group earns over $32,000 Each year business members of the Landscape Ontario’s Safety Groups have the potential to receive a six per cent rebate on group Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB) premiums. The program is just one incentive for an owner or senior manager to participate in the program. The 2009 group received a total of $32,625.83 in rebate from the WSIB. Members of the group are shown in photo, from left, John Buikema and Brandy Stieva, both of Jan Gelderman
Landscaping, Jeanine West of Sheridan Nurseries, Jason Brundle of Jan Gelderman, Shelley Wall, consultant with WSIB, Rich Heikoop of J.C. Bakker Nurseries, Angela Good and Brian Perras Jr., both of B.P. Enterprises, Dave Plant of Griffith Property Services, Ryan Heath of Ryan Heath Professional Landscaping, Pat Elo of Townscaping, Neil Whiteside of of Green Lawn – Toronto West, and Grisselda Maradiaga of Aldershot Greenhouses.
Winkelmolen Nursery Ltd.
For Bareroot and Container Grown Trees • Native • Shade • Ornamental 148 Lynden Road, P.O. Box 190 Lynden, Ontario L0R 1T0 Tel: 519-647-3912 • Fax: 519-647-3720 www.winkelmolen.com 14 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
Halton Region implements Horticultural Trade Use policies By Glenn J. Wellings, MCIP, RPP
O
n Dec. 16, 2009, Halton Regional Council adopted Official Plan Amendment No. 38 (ROPA 38). The comprehensive document deals with a variety of issues, including establishing future urban growth areas for the Region of Halton. Landscape Ontario members within Halton are very interested about the implementation of policies regarding Horticultural Trade Uses. ROPA 38 defines Horticultural Trade Uses as essentially landscape companies involved in the growing, sale, supply, delivery, storage, distribution, installation, and/or maintenance of horticultural plants and products used in landscaping. It is important to note that nurseries, which specialize in the growing of plants, continue to be considered an agricultural pursuit and therefore unaffected by the new policies. Subject to meeting local municipal policies, Horticultural Trade Uses are permitted in the Agricultural Rural Area designation under the following circumstances: • Farm property is at least four hectares in size • At least 70 per cent of the arable area of the farm property is dedicated to the growing of horticultural plants • Use is located within the existing farm building cluster with no tree removals • Gross fl oor area does not exceed 500 square metres. • Outdoor storage area does not exceed 1,000 square metres • Use, including buildings, outdoor storage,
parking areas, and loading/unloading, is adequately screened • Use can be accommodated by on-site private water supply and wastewater treatment systems ROPA 38 policy modifications Throughout the Horticultural Trade Land Use Study and ROPA 38 process, Landscape Ontario and its members sought policy changes that would protect those who presently operate horticultural and landscape contractor businesses throughout Halton. The main issue was that many of the existing operations/businesses were not recognized under current official plan policies and local zoning bylaws, and did not meet the aforementioned criteria. This could have resulted in serious hardship by forcing closure and/or relocation. For example, many operators do not meet the minimum property size of four hectares to sustain such a Horticultural Trade Use. Following presentations to Regional Planning and Public Works Committee and municipal council, as well as various meetings with regional staff, the LO contingent was able to agree on the inclusion of policies within ROPA 38. This would enable existing, non-compliant operations/businesses to be recognized as “existing uses” under the ROPA 38 policies, provided local planning applications are made within one year of Regional Council adoption of ROPA 38 (December 16, 2009), and that such permission is granted under local zoning bylaws within five years from adoption. Also worthy of note is that recognition of existing uses can be
achieved without the benefit and expense of a Regional Plan Amendment. As well, the policies enable recognition of existing operations throughout Halton, including North Aldershot. What’s next? ROPA 38 is now in the hands of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH). Approval is expected by late spring or early summer, 2010. It is important to maintain contact with MMAH and request further notice to ensure the ROPA 38 policies do not undergo further modifications that could effectively undo the successful policy changes that LO has achieved to date. Additionally, it is crucial that existing operators commence with the pre-consultation process with the local municipalities in order to ensure that applications are filed within the oneyear limitation period, as noted above. Halton Region extends along 25 kilometres of Lake Ontario shoreline. Included in the region are the cities of Burlington and Oakville, and the towns of Halton Hills and Milton. For contact information, or to see the report, go to www.halton.ca. Stirling Todd, Senior Planner, is the key contact person at Halton. His telephone number is 905-825-6000, ext. 7186, or email Stirling.Todd@halton.ca Contact details for MMAH follows: Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Municipal Services Office, Central Ontario, 777 Bay Street, 2nd Floor, Toronto, ON M5G 2E5 Glenn J. Wellings is president of Wellings Planning Consultants of Burlington.
HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 15
Hillen Nursery Inc Botanical Name
Vines - 1, 2, 3 gal.
Akebia quinata ‘Silver Bells’ Ampelopsis glandulosa ‘Elegans’ Aristolochia durior Campsis ‘Balboa Sunset’ Hydrangea anomala petiolaris Lonicera japonica ‘Halliana’ Lonicera X ‘Mandarin’’ Lonicera per. ‘Belgica Select’ Lonicera per. ‘Serotina’ Polygonum aubertii Parthenocissus quinq ‘Engelmannii Parthenocissus tri ‘Veitchii’
1 gal 2 gal 3 gal price price price
6.00 6.00
6.00 6.00 6.00
8.00 8.00
8.00 8.00 8.00 8.00
Evergreens - 1, 2, 3 gal. Azalea ‘Golden Hi Lights’ Azalea ‘Orchid Hi Lights’ Buxus microphylla Buxus semp. ‘Green Mound’ Buxus semp. ‘Green Gem’ Buxus ‘Green Mountain’ Buxus ‘Green Velvet’ Buxus micr.’Faulkner’ Chamaecyparis pis ‘Filifera Aurea Chamaecyparis pis ‘Aurea Sungold’ Cotoneaster adpressus ‘Compactus’ Cotoneaster ‘Coral Beauty’ Cotoneaster dammeri ‘Major’ Cotoneaster microphyllus Cotoneaster salicifolius ‘Repens’ Euonymus fortunei ‘Canadale Gold’ Euonymus fort.’Emerald Gaiety’ Euonymus fortunei ‘E.T.’ Euonymus fortunei ‘Emerald n Gold Euonymus fortunei ‘Goldtip’ Euonymus fortunei ‘Sunrise’ Euonymus fortunei ‘Sarcoxie’ Euonymus fortunei ‘Surespot’ Euonymus fortunei ‘Vegetus’ Ilex meserveae ‘Blue Prince’ Ilex meserveae ‘Blue Princess’ Juniperus media ‘Mint Julep’ Juniperus media ‘Pfitz.Compacta’ Juniperus procumbens nana Juniperus communis ‘Repanda’ Juniperus conferta’Blue Pacific’ Juniperus hor ‘Blue Horizon’ Juniperus hor ‘Blue Prince’ Juniperus hor ‘Icee Blue’ Juniperus hor ‘Andorra Compact’ Juniperus hor ‘Torquoise Spreader Juniperus hor ‘Wiltonii’ Juniperus hor ‘Yukon Belle’ Juniperus hor ‘Youngstown’ Juniperus sabina Juniperus squamata ‘Blue Carpet’
13.50 13.50 11.00 11.00 11.20 11.00 11.20
5.00 5.00 5.20 5.00 5.20 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 6.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
11.00 11.00
7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00
11.00 11.00 9.00 9.00
11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 13.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00
Botanical Name Juniperus squamata ‘Blue Star’ Juniperus virginiana ‘Grey Owl’ Larix laricina Microbiota decussata Metasequoia glyptostroboides Myrica pensylvanica Picea abies Picea abies ‘Nidiformis’ Picea glauca Picea glauca ‘Conica’ Picea pungens ‘Baby Blue’ Picea glauca ‘Densata’ Picea omorika Picea pungens kiabob Pieris jap ‘Mountain Fire’ Pinus mugo mughes Rhododendron ‘Northern Starburst’ Rhododendron Aglo(PJM) Thuja occidentalis Thuja occidentalis ‘Brandon’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Danica’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Hetz Midget’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Little Giant’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Nigra’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Wintergreen’ Thuja plicata ‘Spring Grove’ Tsuga canadensis Tsuga canadensis ‘Jeddeloh’ Tsuga canadensis ‘Pendula’ Taxus cuspidata ‘Aurescens’ Taxus cuspidata nana Taxus media ‘Densiformis’ Taxus media ‘Hicksii’ Taxus media ‘Hillii’ Taxus media ‘Wardii’ Yucca filamentosa Yucca flaccida ‘Golden Sword’
1 gal 2 gal 3 gal price price price 5.00 5.00 5.00
5.00
5.00
5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00
7.00
11.00 11.00
11.00 7.00 11.00 7.00 7.00 11.00 7.00 11.00 13.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 7.00 11.00 13.50 13.50 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00
Deciduous Shrubs - 1, 2, 3 gal Acanthopanax sieboldianus Acer campestre Acer ginnala Alnus rugosa Amelanchier laevis Aronia melanocarpa Aronia melanocarpa ‘Autumn Magic” Aronia melanocarpa ‘Viking’ Buddleja davidii ‘Black Knight’ Buddleja ‘Ellen’s Blue’ Buddleja davidii ‘Ile de France’ Buddleja davidii ‘Nanho Purple’ Buddleja davidii ‘Pink Delight’ Buddleja davidii ‘Petite Plum’ Buddleja davidii ‘Purple Prince’
16 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00
8.00
Botanical Name Buddleja davidii ‘Royal Red’ Buddleja davidii ‘White Profusion Berberis thunbergi’Rose Glow’ Betula papyrifera Caryopteris cland. ‘Dark Knight’ Cephalanthus occidentalis Cercis canadensis Cercidiphyllum japonicum Chaenomeles speciosa ‘Nivalis’ Chaenomeles superba’Texas Scarlet Clethra alnifolia ‘Paniculatum’ Clethra alnifolia ‘Pink Spire’ Cornus alternifolia Cornus alba ‘Elegantissima’ Cornus alba ‘Ivory Halo’ Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’ Cornus amomum Cornus kousa chinensis Cornus racemosa Cornus stolonifera (sericea) Cornus stolonifera ‘Bud’s Yellow’ Cornus stolonifera ‘Kelseyi’ Corylus avelana Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’ Corylus avellana ‘Red Majestic’ Cotinus coggygria’Royal Purple’ Cotoneaster acutifolius Cotoneaster horizontalis Diervilla lonicera Deutzia crenata ‘Nikko’ Deutzia gracilis Deutzia x ‘Strawberry Field’ Euonymus alatus ‘Compactus’ Fagus sylvatica ‘Purpurea’ Forsythia X int. ‘Goldtide’ Forsythia int.’Lynwood’ Forsythia ‘Northern Gold’ Forsythia ‘Kumson’ Forsythia ovata ‘Ottawa’ Hibiscus syr.’White Chiffon’ Hydrangea arbor. ‘Annabelle’ Hydrangea macroph.’Forever Pink Hydrangea macroph.’Nikko Blue’ Hydrangea’Endless Summer Blushing Hydrangea mac.’Endless Summer’ Hydrangea macroph.’Glowing Embers Hydrangea macroph.’Merritt’s Beau Hydrangea macr’Princess Beatrix’ Hydrangea macroph.’Penny Mac’ Hydrangea pan. ‘Grandiflora’ Hydrangea pan. ‘Kyushu’ Hydrangea pan. ‘Little Lamb’ Hydrangea pan.’Limelight’ Hydrangea pan.’Pinky Winky’ Hydrangea pan. ‘Tardiva’ Hydrangea serrata ‘Bluebird’ Hydrangea serrata ‘Little Geisha’ Hamamelis virginiana
1 gal 2 gal 3 gal price price price 7.00 7.00 6.00 9.50 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.45 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 16.00 17.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 5.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 5.00 8.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 5.60 7.00 7.00 7.00 14.00 14.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.30 7.00 7.00 7.60 7.60 7.60 7.00 7.00 7.60 7.00
8.00 8.00
8.00
9.00
8.00
c.
Many More Cultivars and sizes available
Botanical Name Ilex verticilata Ilex vert.’Afterglow’F Ilex vert.’Winterred’F Ilex vert.’Southern Gentleman’M Kolkwitzia amab ‘Pink Cloud’ Kerria japonica ‘Pleniflora’ Lonicera tatarica ‘Arnold Red’ Lonicera xylost.’Clavey’s Dwarf’ Lonicera xylost.’Emerald Mound’ Magnolia loebneri ‘Leonard Messel Magnolia stellata ‘Royal Star’ Philadelphus coronarius ‘Aureus’ Philadelphus ‘Innocence’ Philadelphus ‘Natchez’ Philadelphus schrenkii ‘Snowbelle Philadelphus ‘Minn.Snowflake Dwar Physocarpus opulifolius Physocarpus opulifolius’Coppertin Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Diabolo’ Physocarpus opulifolius’Dart’sGol Physocarpos opulifolius ‘Luteus’ Physocarpus opulifolius’Summer Wi Populus tremuloides Prunus cistena Prunus virginiana Potentilla frut ‘Abbotswood’ Potentilla frut ‘Cor.Triumph’ Potentilla frut ‘Dakota Sunrise’ Potentilla ferrari ‘Gold Drop’ Potentilla frut ‘Goldstar’ Potentilla frut ‘Pink Beauty’ Potentilla frut ‘Tangerine’ Quercus bicolor Quercus robus ‘Fastigiata’ Quercus rubra Ribes alpinum Ribes aureum Rosa Bonica Rosa Carolina Rosa Henry Kelsey Rosa X ‘J P Connell’(ex) Rosa ‘Pavement Scarlet’ Rosa rugosa Rosa rugosa ‘Hansa’ Rosa x ‘Champlain’ Rosa X ‘The Fairy’ Rubus odoratus Rhus aromatica Rhus aromatica ‘Low Grow’ Rhus typhina Salix bebbiana Salix discolor Salix eriocephala Salix exigua Salix gracilis ‘Purpurea Nana’ Salix integra ‘Flamingo’ Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nashiki’ Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’
1 gal 2 gal 3 gal price price price 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00
5.00
5.00
7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.85 7.60 7.00 7.00 7.85 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.50 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00
11.00 11.00
8.60
8.00
Botanical Name Salix nigra Sambucus canadensis Sambucus canadensis ‘Aurea’ Symphoricarpos chenaultii ‘Hancoc Spiraea alba Spiraea arguta Spiraea bumalda ‘Anthony Waterer’ Spiraea bumalda ‘Crispa’ Spiraea bumalda ‘Froebelii’ Spiraea bumalda ‘Goldflame’ Spiraea betulifolia ‘Tor’ Spiraea fritschiana Spiraea japonica ‘Alpina’ Spiraea japonica ‘Dakota Goldchar Spiraea japonica ‘Dart’s Red’ Spiraea japonica ‘Goldmound’ Spiraea japonica ‘Golden Princess Spiraea japonica ‘Little Princess Spiraea japonica ‘Magic Carpet’ Spiraea japonica ‘Manon’ Spiraea japonica ‘Neon Flash’ Spiraea japonica ‘Shirobana’ Spiraea japonica ‘White Gold’ Spirea tomentosa Spiraea vanhouttei Sorbaria aitchisonii Sorbaria sorbifolia Sorbaria sorbifolia ‘Sem’ Syringa hyac. ‘Pocahontas’ Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’ Syringa patula ‘Miss Kim’ Syringa vulgaris Syringa vulgaris ‘Beauty of Mosco Syringa vulgaris ‘Monge’ Syringa vulgaris ‘Sensation’ Tilia cordata Tamarix pentandra Viburnum dent.’Chicago Lustre’ Viburnum ‘Emerald Triumph’ Viburnum lantana Viburnum lentago Viburnum opulus ‘Nanum’ Viburnum recognitum/dentatum Viburnum trilobum ‘Bailey Compact Viburnum trilobum ‘Compactum’ Weigela florida ‘Alexandra’ Weigela ‘Elvira’ Weigela florida ‘French Lace’ Weigela florida ‘Minuet’ Weigela florida ‘Purpurea Nana’ Weigela florida ‘Rumba’ Weigela florida ‘Victoria’ Weigela florida ‘Nana Variegata’ Weigela ‘Red Prince’ Weigela ‘Polka’ Weigela ‘Tango’
1 gal 2 gal 3 gal price price price
5.00
5.00
7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.25 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.60 7.60 7.60 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00
8.00
8.00 8.00
Botanical Name
Evergreens - 5 gal.
5 gal price
Chamaecyparis nootk ‘Green Arrow’ Chamaecyparis nootkatensis’Pendula’ Juniperus chinensis ‘Spartan’ Juniperus scop. ‘Blue Haven’ Larix laricina Metasequoia glyptostroboides Metasequoia glyp. ‘Goldrush’ Picea abies ‘Acrocona’ Picea glauca ‘Conica’ Pinus mugo mugo Thuja occidentalis ‘Brandon’ Thuja plicata ‘Green Giant’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Holmstrup’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Little Giant’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Nigra’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Wintergreen’ Tsuga canadensis
36.00 36.00 19.00 16.00 17.00 25.00 40.00 35.00 28.00 19.00 19.00 19.00 19.00 19.00 19.00 19.00 19.00 33.00
Deciduous Shrubs - 5 gal.
8.00
8.00 8.00 8.00
Acer palmatum’Bloodgood’ Acer palmatum ‘Dissectum Acer palmatum ‘Garnet’ Acer rubrum Cercis canadensis Cotinus coggygria’Royal Purple’ Fagus sylvatica ‘Purpurea’ Hydrangea mac.’Endless Summer’ Hydrangea pan. ‘Compacta’ Hydrangea pan. ‘Grandiflora’ Hydrangea pan. ‘Kyushu’ Hydrangea pan.’Limelight’ Magnolia loebneri ‘Leonard Messel’ Magnolia ‘Susan’ Magnolia stellata ‘Royal Star’ Populus tremuloides Quercus robur ‘Fastigiata’ Spiraea bumalda ‘Flaming Mound’ Spiraea bumalda ‘Goldflame’ Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’ Syringa prestoniae ‘Donald Wyman’ Syringa pres’James Macfarlane Tilia cordata Viburnum ‘Emerald Triumph’ Viburnum trilobum ‘Compactum’
Botanical Name
Evergreens - 15 gal. Chamaecyparis nootkatensis’Pendula’ Metasequoia glyptostroboides Thuja occidentalis ‘Brandon’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Nigra’ Thuja occidentalis ‘Wintergreen’ Thuja plicata ‘Spring Grove’
51.00 51.00 51.00 25.00 19.00 18.00 35.00 21.70 17.00 17.00 17.00 17.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 16.00 25.00 13.00 13.00 16.00 16.00 16.00 17.00 18.00 16.00
15 gal price 49.00 41.00 41.00 41.00 41.00 41.00
RR 2, Mount Brydges, ON N0L 1W0 Tel: 519-264-9057 • Fax: 519-264-1337 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 17
Letter to Editor Dear Editor:
Ground Effects Landscapes won the grand prize at the Unilock Awards of Excellence.
Unilock holds annual awards night
The annual Unilock Awards of Excellence awards night in December celebrated the outstanding work of contractors using the company’s product. The eight categories were judged by an independent panel of industry professionals, including LO’s own Denis Flanagan, director of public relations. The event was held in Woodbridge. The grand prize winner was Ground Effects Landscapes of Hanover, that also received the award for Best Residential Outdoor Living Area. Other winners included Best Residential
Driveway, Cobble Design of Zurich, Best Residential Front Entrance, Sacred Space Landscape and Design of Barrie, Best Residential Use of Elegance, Valleyview Landscapes of Toronto, Best Residential Use of Umbriano, J.G. McLennon Landscape Construction of Oakville, Best Residential Mix of Unilock Select, OGS Landscape Supply of Brooklin, Best Residential Use of Risi Stone, Landtech Design of Foxboro, and Best Residential Use of Banding using Unilock Select, Premier Landscaping and Design of Richmond Hill.
When I read Rod McDonald’s column in November Landscape Trades on women in the landscape industry, I knew I had to put my two-cents worth in about this topic. The experience I write about started in the early 1970s. My eldest daughter was studying at Humber College as a horticultural technician. It was a fairly new program at that time, as there was not much available in horticultural training. It was a three-year program. By the end of her second year, I contacted the Royal Botanical Gardens. I knew a few people there, and asked if they would be willing to hire a female horticultural student for the summer. It took some convincing, but in the end they said OK, so in the summer of 1974 she became the first female gardener at the RBG. It was a newsworthy hire, for there was a big front page photo printed in the Hamilton Spectator of her working in the rock gardens. After she finished her third year at Humber College, she started working for Braun Nurseries in Mount Hope, mostly in the shipping department. Frank Braun was very pleased with her work in re-organizing the shipping department, and later on streamlining the office. But when Mr. Braun retired, she decided it was time to move on. She moved to Oakville and started something very new, a horticultural trade magazine. The first copies were more like church bulletins, shoved in an envelope and sent as free copies to a few horticultural businesses. After a while the little magazine grew. Her sister Helen did the artwork for the front cover for a number of years. I don’t know all of the details, but this little magazine became a success story. Eventually, it became too big for her to handle, and she sold the magazine to Landscape Ontario. She stayed on as the editorial director and publisher for a number of years, but eventually, it was time to move on again. The name of this magazine – Horticulture Review. As of now, she is the Growers Manager of the Canadian Nursery and Landscape Association, and, by now, most of you will know the person I am talking about. It is my daughter, Rita Weerdenburg, and this piece was submitted by her proud father. Ted Weerdenburg, Burlington
18 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
Act to protect workers from violence applies to all Ontario workplaces Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) to protect workers against workplace violence was passed on Dec. 9, 2009. It comes into law on June 10, 2010. Along with workplace violence, the legislation, also known as Bill 168, addresses workplace harassment. It will apply to all Ontario workplaces currently covered by the OHSA. The new amendments specify: • Employers with more than fi ve workers are required to prepare policies on workplace violence and harassment and develop and maintain programs to implement them. • Employers must assess the risks of workplace violence based on the nature of the workplace and type or conditions of work, and develop measures and procedures to control them. The employer’s risk assessment is required to take into account circumstances that would be common to similar workplaces and specifi c to the workplace. Once complete, the employer must advise the joint health
and safety committee, health and safety representative, or workers directly (if there is no committee, or representative) of the results of the assessment and provide a copy of the assessment if in writing. Workplaces must be reassessed for risks of workplace violence to ensure that the policy continues to protect workers from workplace violence. • A right for workers to refuse work if they believe they are at risk of physical injury due to possible workplace violence. • Employers aware of the potential for domestic violence in a workplace are to take reasonable precautions to protect the workers considered at risk of physical injury. • Employers and supervisors are to alert certain workers of the risk of workplace violence from persons with a history of violent behaviour. Employers and supervisors must provide workers who may encounter such persons at work with as much information, including personal information, as needed to protect the
workers from physical injury. • The workplace’s Joint Health and Safety Committee and others must be notifi ed if a worker is disabled, or needs medical attention due to workplace violence. The most controversial requirements are those related to domestic violence. The OHSA will now require an employer to take ‘every precaution reasonable’ in the circumstances for the protection of a worker if the employer becomes aware, or ‘ought reasonably to be aware,’ that domestic violence that would likely expose a worker to physical injury may occur in the workplace. Ontario will be the only jurisdiction in Canada to have these provisions that specifically require an employer to react to domestic violence. No specific reasonable precautions have been outlined. Health and safety inspectors for the Ministry of Labour will enforce the new workplace violence and harassment provisions in the OHSA. To access the Ministry of Labour website, go to: www.labor.gov.on.ca/english/hs/.
Training Pays. 500% ROI on new employees, first 6 weeks. Ask us how. We guarantee it.
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HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 19
LO members offer varied opinions on new HST tax Will the new HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) help or hurt the green industry? LO members have varied opinions. The new tax becomes reality on July 1, 2010. Horticulture Review surveyed a number of LO members respected for their knowledge of financial matters. The biggest concern expressed by those surveyed is that homeowners will now pay an additional eight per cent on services required to maintain their homes, thereby resulting in a reluctance to take on landscaping projects. Service costs were previously exempt from PST. The new tax will now hit bills for utilities, home renovation labour, landscaping, snow removal and many others. The Ontario Real Estate Association estimates HST on these services will add $480 in annual tax to the homeowner, based on a family that budgets $500 per month for such costs. Bad timing “The biggest thing that I scratch my head about is the timing of it. Why would you cause this sense of additional expense to the consumer, when we are coming out of this difficult economic downturn? I can’t help but feel it will only cause more
problems for many of our LO companies, especially in some of the harder-hit regions,” stated LO’s first vice president, Tim Kearney of Garden Creations of Ottawa. “I still don’t see where an additional eight per cent tax taken from people’s pockets on our labour-intensive services will stimulate Ontario’s economy,” says Irene Belo of Green Valley Gardening and Landscaping of Etobicoke. “The issue is the potential chilling effect on the consumer,” says Tony DiGiovanni, executive director of Landscape Ontario. “That’s where the problem lies for sectors that have never collected the PST and now will have to start billing for it.” New LO president, Tom Intven of Canadale Nurseries, deals exclusively with the issue in his column, found on page 5. He writes that the tax will affect our members in different ways, depending on the type of business they operate. He feels that for most of our sectors, consumers will see higher prices with the addition of the HST at a time when consumers’ disposable income is being reduced by a new tax on essentials such as gasoline, utilities, Internet and all services for their home or leisure. “Growers
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20 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
will likely benefit the most from this new tax. Landscape contracting, lawn care, grounds maintenance, snow and ice, designers and lighting sectors will be hit hardest by the additional tax on labour fees, which comprise a large portion of invoices.” Positive opportunities Not everyone sees a negative in the new tax. “The actual increase in cost to the consumer will only be more like four to five per cent, because our businesses will no longer have to pay the PST on materials, or on our expenses in overhead,” says George Urvari, president of Oriole Landscaping. He adds that consumers will still spend, regardless of the new tax. “If someone is going to do a reno, for example, they may put it off....but eventually they will spend.” Warren Patterson of Botanix - Barrie’s Garden Centre agrees with Urvari. “It’s rare for consumers to not make a purchase because of tax. Typically, they will make the purchase if they feel the base price is reasonable. They may, however, try to negotiate a better base price.” Patterson, who serves as chair on LO’s membership recruitment committee, feels the benefits
from the HST will be numerous. “Although this tax will bite us in many areas where we previously haven’t been taxed, as businesses we will find it much easier to to buy products tax-free. Remember, that this new tax will only apply to the end-user. We can pass these savings on to our customers,” says Nick Solty of Solty and Sons in Cookstown and a past president of LO. This was echoed by another past president of LO, Bob Tubby, president of Arbordale Landscaping/Moonstruck Landscape Lighting. Tubby said, “The contract amount will now appear lower. Clients will see the eight per cent that they have been paying on materials, equipment charges and overhead related items all along. Don’t include taxes in your price to the client. And, be sure to state that all prices are subject to the HST. It helps to disassociate you from the taxman. Let your client do the math.” Mark Bradley, president of The Beach Gardener in Brooklin and Landscape Management Network, says, “I believe that in time the HST will prove to be positive, and it will almost certainly have some negative impact on consumer spending in our industry in the short term.” He adds that, “The long term benefits of this tax will create a healthier economic atmosphere for us to operate our companies.” “Companies should be encouraged, as the cost of doing business will decrease with the new tax because they will be able to claim back the 13 per cent HST just like the federal GST. This will mean an eight per cent savings for the equipment they buy or lease to run their businesses. For example, if a company leases a new pick-up truck for $700, plus tax per month currently, the business will pay the $35 GST and the $56 PST, but then claim back the GST of $35 as an input tax credit (ITC.) Beginning July 1st, companies may also claim the retail sales tax eight per cent (RST) portion of $56. Over 48 months, that totals $4,368. The tax credit will also be applied to down payments and buyouts at the end of a lease,” says Laura Catalano of Nisco National Leasing in Burlington. She also notes that on a purchase of a $35,000 vehicle, the business will claim back the 13 per cent HST for a total of $4,550. Rob Tester, of TNT Property Maintenance in Kitchener, says he is a strong advocate of the HST and has been from the beginning. “The change will really help us. We will save on equipment and products with all the hidden taxes removed. Business owners will have a choice of passing the savings onto their customers, or maintaining their previous price levels.
This presents a great opportunity for business people.” Prosperity Partners program manager Jacki Hart of Water’s Edge Landscaping in Bala, says her thoughts on HST are mixed. “Every time there is a new tax introduced, consumers tend to recoil in horror and take their time to emerge, often months later, with an air of resigned acceptance. It behooves me to understand why the government would fork out billions in stimulation, followed by a sharp slap up the side of the head with a new tax.” Solty says, “Our overhead will be affected due to the extra taxes we’re going to pay for accountants, lawyers and consultants, but how else are we going to pay for the socialist government that everyone seems to want?” Tubby expects that there will be a spike in the number of clients wanting to pay cash in order to avoid paying taxes. “Clients will be angry with the tax collectors, it will be important to position yourself on the client’s side, as we become the ‘tax collectors’ for the government, and poorly paid for the service!” Bradley predicts, “When the dust settles and the people of Ontario begin to reap the benefits of this tax relief program, we will certainly find that our province is financially stronger. Consumers will save money in many other areas, while many products will become cheaper as a result of the elimination of the multiple layers of tax. Eventually the people of Ontario will see a more balanced development and our industry will continue to see increased demand as we have over the last 20 years.” Death and taxes “There are two things in life we are not able to avoid death and taxes. It just is what it is. We will stand firm on the new tax in my business, conduct ourselves with integrity, and be fair with our pricing,” explained Hart. “I hope the government of Ontario and Finance Minister Dwight Duncan are very good in the field of promotion, because an awful lot will have to be done to convince the consumer that this is not just another tax grab,” says Kearney. Irene Belo asked, “If registering our concerns with our Premier’s office, or doing a full scale protest at Queen’s Park doesn’t make any difference, then the question I have, as a citizen of this province is, what does? Where has our freedom of speech gone? Do we actually have a voice, and if so why isn’t it being heard loud and clear by the government bureaucrats and politicians?”
“Overall, the government of Ontario needed to raise more money through taxes, because they are running a deficit (We are not going to grow our way out of it). They could do it either through payroll taxes (what you make) or HST (what you consume). A consumption tax is always the best, because it is not so visible. It’s little bit every day, rather than every pay cheque,” says Patterson. Urvari notes that in the long run, it will benefit our export industries as input tax costs will not be passed on to foreign buyers, thereby helping our exporters sell product and create jobs. “It will also encourage our industry to invest in capital to become more efficient and productive. If I buy a 100K crane truck, I will get the 8K in PST back and perhaps be more efficient,” he says. The HST will generally apply to services performed on or after July 1, 2010. The HST will not apply, however, to a supply of service if all or substantially all (90 per cent or more) of the service is performed before July 2010. The Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) estimates that the HST will add $1,449 in new taxes to an average resale home costing $302,354. OREA also estimates that the HST will add an estimated $262 million in new taxes annually to residential real estate resale transactions. A report by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives says low- and modest-income families will come out slightly ahead under the HST, which includes increased property and sales tax credits and income tax cuts; households with incomes above $100,000 will come out just slightly behind. The CCPA describes itself as an “independent, non-partisan research institute concerned with issues of social and economic justice.” The main office is located in Ottawa. The provincial government’s website on the HST may be found at www.ontario.ca/ taxchange.
HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 21
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Director responds to letter from member
LO: A dialogue for improvement LO member Curtis Frederick of Frederick Horticulture in Phelpston, wrote the following letter to LO’s executive director Tony DiGiovanni. We present this letter in an unique manner, having Frederick’s comments (in bold type) followed by an answer from the LO executive director. Hi Tony, This is a short letter to ask a few questions and making a few comments pertaining to articles in the last Horticulture Review (December 2009 issue). First I would like to comment that I was pleased to see a survey regarding membership recruitment and retention. I am pleased to see the findings and think that, for the most part, the committee is on the right track. This committee is headed by fellow Georgian Lakeland member Warren Patterson. He is one of the best chairs I have seen in my 20 years. There is a real desire to get it right and to
generate value and relevance. The chapter meetings have become repetitive and lost their interest. Some members enjoy the get-togethers, but others, such as myself, will only resume participation when the meetings become more relevant and provide new information and interest. As an association, we enjoy 24,000 faceto-face contacts with our members. Over 1,000 of these happen at nine chapter meetings across Ontario. This means that the chapter meetings are underachieving. By comparison, we receive over 2,000 visits at our home office in a threemonth period. I am sure that that the topic mix can be improved, however, there must be other reasons. I personally think that one of the reasons is that members are starved for time. The demands of business and family life make it difficult to attend a night-time meeting. Our most successful chapter is Waterloo. Their chapter meetings are informal affairs. The atmosphere is like meeting friends in a pub, unwinding after a long day of work. Ottawa is hosting day meetings. Local relevance will remain a huge priority, however, we need to find other ways of delivery. One of the ideas is to host meetings at supplier open houses. This way the supplier members integrate better and non-members are more exposed to the value of the network. The survey finds that LO members believe non-members receive the same benefits. I was surprised that the committee recommended that LO needs to articulate the value/differential of being a member. I think that perhaps LO should look at that feedback with more thought and understanding that the membership may be sending a message. Perhaps LO should act on that concern, rather than preach that the membership needs to understand what LO offers. I don’t think many members would question that there are benefits to being member, but this feedback may suggest that there is unrest and improvements could be made. Please explain this a little more. Many members feel that non-members receive the same benefit. To us this means that we should improve benefits to members and communicate benefits better. In many cases, there are many benefits that members will not understand until they participate. In other cases, they just don’t know about them. Perhaps we are saying the same thing.
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My one suggestion for the committee would be that the Georgian Lakelands Chapter is just too big. I understand that it is impossible to have another chapter to divide this area up if there is no interest, but separating the far north (Huntsville north) from the Georgian Lakelands Chapter may increase interest in LO in northern areas as Georgian Lakelands really caters to only Barrie and immediately surrounding area. You are right. Ontario is big. Our bylaws say that 10 members in one area may request a chapter. If there is interest, we will help form other chapters. The problem is that chapters need to be a certain size for sustainability. It seems to me that with today’s communication tools (webinars, online groups, forums, Skype phone conferencing, etc.), we should be relevant to anyone, regardless of location. There is nothing that beats face-to-face communication, but we certainly can improve relevancy without it. We tried starting a chapter in Owen Sound, but it only lasted three meetings. The present chapter is trying some remote meetings. We need more ideas. The will to improve is there. Are we allowed to send an employee to the chapter meetings? We encourage employees at chapter meetings. Some chapters even host meetings focused on employees. Employees working for an LO company member are considered members. Next, I would like to address some points in your annual report. In regard to professional development, I would like to see LO give greater recognition to certifications from other organizations such as ISA certified arborist, ICPI certified stone installer, etc. We encourage all designations. Designations are a symbol of competency. At the heart of what we are trying to achieve is a professional industry that is competent and cares about their customers and community. By promoting our own designations, it in no way takes away from other programs. We also encourage all other associations to participate in our activities as education partners. Since we have no way of tracking designations from other associations, we encourage members to use their free member profile on the website to communicate their credentials, experiences and values. I would also like to see greater care
taken to ensure that the material taught in LO seminars follows industry and LO standards of practice. In interlocking stone seminars, I have twice had an employee tell me that the instructor recommended the use of limestone screening as a base material, contrary to industry standard, ICPI standard and my standards. This is very difficult to do because standards vary in this business. I too have questioned the limestone screenings specification and was told that under certain well-drained conditions, it works well. Horticulture is not like math. Sometimes the end point of quality can be achieved by different processes. Sometimes there is disagreement regarding standards. When things like this happen, it is important to have a dialogue. I would love to hear these items discussed in an article or forum. In a pruning seminar, I was also told by an instructor that the best time to prune any plant is when the customer is ready to pay you for your services. Mistakes will be made, so I just ask that LO ensure that instruction is professional and accurate to industry standards. One of the reasons we have an evaluation form at all seminars is to receive comments about member experience. We have fired teachers because of what they have said to students. In most cases, we have great (not perfect) instructors who would love to receive positive feedback. Your ideas on a green infrastructure movement are spot on! You mention Canada Blooms and the Garden Inspiration magazine. I don’t know if this is included at Canada Blooms and in the magazine or not, but it would be great if there was an article (or hand-out upon entry at Canada Blooms)
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promoting the benefits of hiring a LO member. We should push the benefits of hiring a LO professional as much as possible, and not just the LO brand or logo. Over 50,000 copies of Garden Inspiration were distributed free-of-charge to everyone entering Canada Blooms. The magazine featured new plants, award winning landscapes, a directory of members and articles on how to choose professional members of Landscape Ontario. I have always felt (like you) that there is no reason to promote LO as an association. We sell the benefits of the industry and the professionalism of our members. This year I was proved wrong. Members felt a great deal of pride in the Landscape Ontario garden. It reflected their professionalism. They told us to push the LO brand, so that it becomes recognized and they can co-brand with it. A certification program for low-voltage lighting is a great idea and we need more of these outside of CHT, as well as greater recognition of certifications provided by other organizations. CHT is a good idea, but it is a general knowledge that tests several areas of competence and ability. I’m sure many of us prefer other certifications that apply to a specific skill or installation. Agreed! We are pushing all competency-based programs. Since there are so many programs and designations the certification committee has come up with an umbrella brand to bring them all together. It is called Landscape Industry Certified. This will be the only one that will be promoted in the future. It will then be up to the members to promote their specific designations to their potential clients. This idea is causing a lot of controversy. I read that you are trying to convince the Ministry of Transportation to green our
highways. I would love to see this collaboration happen. I would appreciate the opportunity to demonstrate what we can do to make roadsides and right-of-ways attractive, cost effective and environmentally responsible. If the opportunity should present itself in our area, I would gladly participate. We were fortunate this year. A demonstration/research project is currently underway at 401 and 427 and another at 401 and Allen Rd. (Yorkdale Shopping Plaza). The ministry has allocated $1-million to this project. Preparation started this past fall. Planting will be done this spring. The ministry is handling the tender process. I am hoping that this project will lead to many more. Thanks for your offer. Hopefully, we can do something in the near future. One of our grower members wants to try a bare-root planting on the 401 in front of our building. I will keep you informed about the idea. I guess it wasn’t such a short letter. And I hope it doesn’t sound overly critical. I think overall LO does a great job, but there is always room for improvement and I look forward to seeing that happen. I guess my response was not short either. Frankly I get inspired when members care enough to offer opinions. It is energizing! I always tell our staff that you can say anything, as long as it is in the spirit of mutual benefit and mutual improvement. Your note follows that format. Thanks for taking the time to write. Please consider participating on one of our groups. Your contribution is welcomed. I would like to thank you and all the staff at LO for all your hard work. Sincerely, Curtis Frederick
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1-888-634-9559 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 23
LO STAFF PROFILE
Gilles Bouchard
Sales and business development manager Starting in this issue of Horticulture Review, we begin a monthly series featuring staff members of LO, requested by new president Tom Intven, who wants to raise the awareness and appreciation of LO’s staff among the general membership. We hope to show both the professional and personal sides of LO staffers. Q. What is your basic job at LO? A. I work in the trade show department and I assist with selling exhibit space at Garden Expo and Congress. I take a larger role in operations at these two events. I am the marketplace manager at Canada Blooms and the Snow and Ice Symposium, handling the majority of the both sales and operations at these events, with assistance from the trade show department team at certain times of the year. In addition to the shows, I am continuously looking for opportunities where LO can subcontract our show management services and assist with other association events, or colocation of events. Q. What is your background before coming to LO, and when did you begin work at LO? A. Before coming to LO, I worked in the event rental industry starting back in 1980. It began as a part-time job that lead (over 28 years) to the creation of a trade show services department for the company that grew and merged with other companies
over the years. I fi nished my career with Stronco Show Services in August of 2008, at which time I joined LO. In fact, I served the Landscape Ontario shows for 19 years prior to joining this great team. Q. When not at work, where can you be found? A. For the most part at home, I live to be with my wife Nancy and my two daughters, Carley and Cassandra. Having commuted for the past 19 years, I enjoy time spent at home with my family and friends. Q. When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? A. Growing up I wanted to be a truck driver, and as it turned out, working in the rental business, I did in fact get my truck driver’s licence and drove trucks for two years before I went into the offi ce in sales. I still hold a DZ licence today. Q. What inspires you during your time at LO? A. The amount of experience we have in the trade show department at LO and the staff members’ willingness to share tasks as a group. They not only share knowledge, but everyone helps with the workload and the day-to-day grind of it all. We are truly a team that works towards the one common goal, which is to put the best possible event together for our members and the industry in general. In fact, the amount of experience within the entire association is very humbling. As you look at the different departments and see the experience around us, we are truly fortunate.
24 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
Q. Name your all-time favourite movie, musical group and TV show. A. Christmas Vacation, Elton John and Two and a Half Men. Q. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? A. I would love to go to Europe and spend three to four weeks traveling to all of the different countries. Q. Tell us one thing about you that few of your colleagues know about you. A. As a kid growing up, we moved 17 times. That being said, I only went to one grade school and one high school. I guess that is why I gravitated to a business that sets up temporary events, packs them up, moves them to a new location and sets them up again. It was a foreshadowing for the life I was destined to live, and one that I truly love.
Ryan Heath on Holmes show Ryan Heath of Ryan Heath Professional Landscaping, Keswick, took part in two shows on the popular Mike Holmes TV series Holmes Inspection. Heath, who also serves on LO’s board of directors, appeared in episodes, entitled Troubled Waters and Watch Your Step. Heath and his company provided labour and donated material. Segments of the show can be found on Heath’s website www.ryanheath. com.
NEW MEMBERS DURHAM CHAPTER JA Walker Consulting Jamie Walker 581 Millard Street Stouffville, ON L4A 7Y4 Tel: 647-321-5050 Membership Type: Associate Sitescape Joseph Szolopiak PO Box 354 Port Perry, ON L9L 1A4 Tel: 905-985-3906 Membership Type: Interim Trista Matthews, CIT Peterborough, ON Membership Type: Horticultural GEORGIAN LAKELANDS CHAPTER Rocksolid Landscapes John Pedlar Grey Rd 13 PO Box 318 Flesherton, ON N0C 1E0 Tel: 519-924-2793 Membership Type: Active GOLDEN HORSESHOE CHAPTER A & R Geosynthetics Inc. Fraser Robinson 6 - 400 Brock Road Dundas, ON L9H 5E4 Tel: 905-628-1400 Membership Type: Associate
Marcelo Plada Ottawa, ON Membership Type: Horticultural
SB Partners LLP Roy Sieben 301 - 3600 Billings Court Burlington, ON L7N 3N6 Tel: 905-633-6313 Membership Type: Associate
TORONTO CHAPTER Beaver Integrated Services Daryl Bell 3986 Chesswood Dr Toronto, ON M3J 2W6 Tel: 416-635-9595 Membership Type: Active
LONDON CHAPTER Hyde Park Equipment Ltd Larry Annaert 2034 Mallard Road London, ON N6H 5M8 Tel: 519-471-1400 Membership Type: Associate OTTAWA CHAPTER Greenway Turf Inc. Stephen Hope 701 South Gower Dr Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 Tel: 613-656-3333 Membership Type: Chapter Associate T.D.L Truck Repairs Tim Kingsbury 3379 Hawthorne Rd Ottawa, ON K1G 4G2 Tel: 613-736-1797 Membership Type: Chapter Associate Triole Small Engine Repair Ltd. Mike Poirier 1419 Startop Rd Ottawa, ON K1B 3W5 Tel: 613-748-3991 Membership Type: Chapter Associate Kellie Adams Manotick, ON Membership Type: Horticultural
Credit Valley Quarries Co Ltd Lisa Nichols 14550 Heritage Road Caledon, ON L7C 1P5 Tel: 905-877-3686 Membership Type: Chapter Associate Grand Oak Lawn and Landscape Peter Szeli 18 Massari St. Caledon Village, ON L7K 0B7 Tel: 905-792-7418 Membership Type: Active Kioti Tractor Hans Bouwers 191 Roselena Dr Schomberg, ON L0G 1T0 Tel: 905-939-9414 Membership Type: Associate Skai Leja Landscape Design Skai Leja 18 Fernbank Ave Toronto, ON M6H 1W1 Tel: 416-533-7733 Membership Type: Active Woodbridge Equipment Albert Peltola 7 - 7075 Tranmere Drive Mississauga, ON L5S 1M2 Tel: 905-673-8969 Membership Type: Associate
LO family grows once again
WATERLOO CHAPTER Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Small Engines Ltd. Rick Weber 21 Industrial Dr. Elmira, ON N3B 2S2 Tel: 519-669-2884 Membership Type: Chapter Associate
LO web editor Robert Ellidge and his wife Meredith have quickly settled into their new lifestyle as proud parents of their first child, Emily Elizabeth. Born on Jan. 4, Emily came into the world weighing 6 lbs., 2.5 ozs., and measured 19.75 inches long. Emily has already made two visits to the LO home office, where she has been welcomed with open arms.
McFadden Contracting Phillip McFadden 330 Paisley Rd. Guelph, ON N1H 2P9 Tel: 519-716-7002 Membership Type: Active
HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 25
OMAFRA NURSERY AND LANDSCAPE REPORT
Biochar is hot new topic By Jen Llewellyn, OMAFRA nursery crops specialist
Biochar and agriculture About a year ago, I was talking to a nursery grower, who brought up the topic of biochar. It is essentially charcoal that is the by-product of heating plant-based fuels (e.g. wood, corn stalks, etc.), or biomass. The term is commonly found on the Internet. Biochar is produced through a process known as pyrolysis. During this process, combustible gases are produced and these can be harvested as a source of fuel known as biogas. Biomass, biogas and bio-oil units are becoming increasingly popular alternative fuels in Ontario agriculture. Biochar is essentially a waste product from this process. It is largely madeup of carbon and is very stable. Biochar may also have potential as part of a solution to mitigate rising levels of carbon dioxide, as a form of carbon sequestration. Ultimately, plants are the solution as they remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere in order to make their own energy. Biochar may be a means of locking up some of that biomass carbon for long term storage. One hot topic Biochar is also reputed as a novel soil amendment in North America. Right now, it is one hot topic. The idea (terra preta) comes from tropical regions, such as those in the Amazon, where farmers have used charcoal to improve soil tilth and crop yields for thousands of years. If you search for information on “biochar and agriculture” or “terra preta” on the Internet, you will find some striking photos of the positive benefits to tropical soils, most notably on poor soils. Recent studies indicate that biochar has more potential as a soil amendment on tropical soils with low organic matter and low nutrient holding capacity. Research demonstrating its effect on our temperate soils is underway. Scientists in North America have been assessing the ability of biochar to improve nutrient holding capacity (Cation Exchange Capacity) and to stimulate soil microbiological activity. Results are slowly trickling in from the assessment. In the meantime, we thought it would be interesting to incorporate char into soilless container media to determine if it had any impact on nutrient holding capacity of media in nursery production. The original idea came from Ted Spearing of Ground Covers Unlimited. We have been working together on a demonstration trial
at his nursery on container-grown trees this summer. Fertilizer prices have nearly doubled in the last couple of years, as have plastics, fuels and several other inputs into crop production. Our goal was to determine whether the addition of char could be used to reduce fertilizer application rates. What if we could reduce fertilizer inputs by 50 per cent? We analyzed the results and presented them at the LO Nursery Growers Short Course at the RBG in Burlington on. Specialists work for you Each fall, representatives from the nursery and landscape sectors come together to talk with OMAFRA specialists about research and pest management needs for outdoor ornamentals. Outdoor ornamentals is the term used by the Pest Management Regulatory Agency and the Pest Management Centre to describe nursery crops and landscape plants. It is my responsibility to report these priorities to our Provincial Minor Use Coordinator, who assembles them and submits the report to the Agriculture Agri-Food Centre’s Pest Management Centre in Ottawa. Thankfully, here in Canada, we have the Pest Management Centre and the Minor Use System to help obtain label expansions for crops such as outdoor ornamentals. Every March, provincial specialists, industry representatives and registrants meet and jockey for the top 10 positions of minor use priorities that will be addressed through efficacy trials the following year. And as you can see by the products listed below, we have been very successful at increasing the toolkit for the nursery and landscape industries through this system. That is important for an industry in which commodities and pest problems are so diverse, that they are often overlooked by registrants because of extra data requirements and the level of potential sales. One of the other strategies we employ that helps increase our success with the minor use system is cross-provincial consultation. The following is a summary of awarded Minor Use Registrations and current Minor Use Projects in the system, compiled by Jim Chaput, OMAFRA Provincial Minor Use Coordinator. URMULE is the acronym for User Requested Minor Use Label Expansion. URMULE registrations 2009 – outdoor ornamentals • Subdue Maxx (metalaxyl-m) – sudden oak death on greenhouse and outdoor ornamentals
26 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
• Acrobat (dimethomorph) – sudden oak death, downy mildew on outdoor ornamentals • Rhapsody (Bacillus subtilis) – disease suppression on greenhouse and outdoor ornamentals • Orthene (acephate) – injection method for insects on selected conifers Other registrations • MET 52 (Metarhizium anisooliae) – black vine weevil, strawberry weevil on outdoor and GH container ornamentals • Sureguard (flumioxazin) – weeds on field grown outdoor ornamentals • Broadstar (flumioxazin) – weeds on container grown woody outdoor ornamentals URMULE projects underway There are nearly 20 projects underway looking at various insecticides, fungicides and herbicides for use on outdoor ornamentals. Some examples include aphids on Christmas trees, black vine weevil, spruce spider mites, viburnum leaf beetle, downy mildew, Gymnosporangium rusts, Phytophthora and Pythium, tar spot on maple and weeds on Christmas trees. I will circulate the registration announcement and final labels as I receive them. New edition of Nursery Landscape Production and IPM This fall the 2009 edition of OMAFRA Publication 383, Nursery and Landscape Plant Production and IPM was printed. The new guide follows the same format with chapters on pesticide safety, water, media and soil, pest management and weed management. Many of the images have been replaced with those of superior quality, including some by our University of Guelph M.Sc. student, Dave Cheung. Guides may be purchased for $20, by calling 1-800668-9938. If you order five or more publications, you receive a 20 per cent discount. Jen Llewellyn may be reached at 519-824-4120, ext. 52671, or by email at jennifer.llewellyn@ontario.ca. See her Nursery-Landscape Report: http://apps.omafra.gov.on.ca/scripts/ english/crops/agriphone/index.asp
LEGAL ISSUES
When you and your client are on different pages By Robert Kennaley McLachlin & Associates
I
n 2003, a kitchen supplier/installer entered into a residential contract to install kitchen cabinets. Five years later, and after three days of trial, a dispute between the supplier and his residential clients over $32,000 was finally settled by a judge. The supplier was largely successful, however, we are quite sure that after enduring five years and significant legal fees, he was not happy. Of interest to those in the landscape trades, the central issue in the Rob Kennaley dispute was whether or not the cabinet doors and drawer fronts should be rejected due to colour variations. The homeowners complained that they did not match the approved samples, in that they were darker at the edges. The supplier responded that the doors and drawer fronts were natural wood products, and as such the colour variations could not be avoided. Further, the supplier pointed out that his contract (which had been signed by the homeowners) expressly provided that, “All wood is a product of nature with inherent variations in colour and grain.” As a result, each door may be unique in appearance. “Such grain and colour variations are not defects.” Still, the homeowners objected and demanded that the doors be replaced. The supplier refused and registered a lien against the homeowners’ property. Now troubled, the homeowners raised 13 further deficiencies, which included complaints that items were missing, that the doors were 1.2 mm too thin, that the drawers were too short and that, in places, maple was provided instead of cherry. In addition, the homeowners asserted a delay claim. In the five years leading up to trial, the parties exchanged documents and attended at pretrial hearings and attendances. A mediation process may have been held. At trial, experts were called and each of the 14 deficiencies, along with the delay claim, was litigated. The supplier most likely incurred $12,000 to $15,000 in legal fees for the three days of trial, along with approximately $2,000 in experts’ fees. In addition, $10,000 to $15,000, or more,
would have been spent on pretrial procedures and preparation. The supplier would have recovered some, but by no means all, of this money in a costs award. Indeed the cost award might have been anywhere from 50 per cent to 80 per cent of actual costs. Relationship falls apart Although it is impossible to know for sure, we would hazard a guess that the relationship between the supplier and the homeowners fell apart over the colour variation issue. When that hurdle could not be overcome, and human nature being what it is, distrust set in and the parties were off on a litigation treadmill. Even more tragic is the fact that the supplier did sit down with his clients and go through the contract. Unfortunately, it appears the supplier did not help his clients to fully understand the extent to which the wood grain and colour may vary, not only from piece to piece, but within an individual door or drawer. Landscape contractors, subcontractors and suppliers deal with natural products. In that regard, they are also somewhat more handicapped than, for example, a kitchen cabinet supplier, in the ability to describe a scope of work to their clients. This is because, for some reason, clients appear to have a fairly good perception of what they are going to get when the order kitchen cabinets, or painted walls, or terrazzo tile or brand-new windows. In this industry, however, many clients are not so well-equipped by their experience to actually visualize what a two-dimensional drawing will look like upon installation.
in the business grow, they come to understand that litigation will become a fact of life from time to time, and that when disputes arise no one (even the successful party) will be made whole. That having been said, however, it is important to avoid disputes if possible. As we find ourselves saying quite often, detailing and particularizing the scope of work is the first, and perhaps best, step in this regard. This case illustrates, for those involved in the landscape trades, properly dealing with variations in natural products is an important aspect of this strategy. Robert Kennaley practices construction law in Toronto. He speaks and writes regularly on construction law issues and can be reached for comment at 416-368-2522, or at kennaley@mclauchlin.ca. This material is for information purposes and is not intended to provide legal advice in relation to any particular fact situation. Readers who have concerns about any particular circumstance are encouraged to seek independent legal advice in that regard.
Ensure clients understand The California Kitchens & Baths Limited v. Roti case, which we have reviewed above, serves as a reminder to landscape contractors, subcontractors and suppliers of the importance to ensure that their clients actually understand what they are going to get for their money. With respect to natural products, in particular, they need to do everything they can to ensure the clients understand that variations will occur and that these are not defects. Further, clients need to understand the extent to which these variances might occur. This case serves as an example of just how much money and grief a contractor can go through if this does not occur. In the end, construction industry litigation cannot always be avoided. As those involved HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 27
CLASSIFIED ADS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
NURSERY STOCK
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
LANDSCAPING BUSINESS Established in 1998 (York Region). If your looking to purchase an extremely profitable landscaping company with excellent clientele. Also associated with a major pool company. Comes with all equipment, trucks, tools, etc. Contact Gary at gprince68@yahoo.com for more information
PERENNIALS Large assortment of perennials, ground covers and native plants. Price - Variety list available. FRANK SCHENK PERENNIALS 663 River Road (Belfountain), Caledon, ON L7K 0E5 Tel: (519) 927-5415 Fax: (519) 927-9084
LOMCO LIMITED Landscape labourers required to manually dig and plant trees/shrubs. Seasonal/fulltime from 04/19/10-12/15/10 $15.00/hour. Fax resume to (905) 953-7975
IDEAL LANDSCAPE STORAGE SPACE AVAILABLE Located near the Don Valley Parkway in Toronto. We have 1000 - 2000 sq. ft. of tenant space available immediately. Starting at $530 per month. Our Yard Is: • 5 minutes drive from the DVP. • 10 minutes drive from the 401. • Close to Parkview Building Supply and Bermondsey Transfer station. • Docking facilities for tractor trailers. • Aggregates and soil supply in yard. • Clean fill and concrete dump bins. • Loader available in yard. • Secure outdoor space. Contact Tamara Tel: (416) 696-5110, ext. 21 Fax: (416) 696-8105
GROUND COVERS UNLIMITED Your Ontario source for ornamental and native ground covers. Call, fax, or write for the 2010 Catalogue and planting guide. GROUND COVERS UNLIMITED 1045 Porter Road, P.O. Box 190 Bethany, ON L0A 1A0 Tel: (705) 277-3005 Fax: (705) 277-9213
NURSERY STOCK Hofland Gardens Ornamental Grasses, Perennials, Groundcovers Tel: 905-355-3392 E-mail: hoflandgardens@phc.igs.net
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING INFORMATION
All classified ads must be pre-paid by VISA or Mastercard. Rates: $42.00 (GST included) per column inch Min. order $42.00. 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. 1. Space is limited to a first come, first served basis. To advertise: E-mail your ad to Robert at classifieds@ landscapeontario.com or fax to (905) 875-0183. Online advertising: Website only ads are available for $42.00 (GST included). Website ads are posted for 30 days and are limited to 325 words. View these ads and more online at:
www.horttrades.com/classifieds
EQUIPMENT
FINN Hydroseeders & Bark Blowers New and Used Flex Guard FRM Soil Guard BFM Erosion Control Blanket Seed & Fertilizer 8711 Keele St., Concord, ON L4K2N1 Toll free: (888) 298-9911 Fax: (905) 761-7959 www.fibramulch.com BOWIE HYDROMULCHERS (New and Used) FLEXTERRA FGM HYDROBLANKETS BFM F4 NETTLESS ECB MULCH IT P.O. Box 100, Putnam, ON N0L 2B0 Tel: (519) 425-0342 • Fax: (519) 425-4195 www.mulchit.on.ca
SERVICES AND SUPPLIES TREE TRANSPLANTING Transplanting trees up to 9” truck diameter with 10,000 lb. rootball. 44”, 80” & 90” spades to move trees with and can basket up to 90” 100 acres of trees to choose from. BOTANIX OXFORD INSTA-SHADE RR # 2, Burgessville ON N0J 1C0 Tel: (519) 424-2180 • Fax: (519) 424-2420 Toll Free: 1-800-387-0246 Contact Jan Veldhuizen E-mail: jan@oxfordinstashade.com www.oxfordinstashade.com
THE LANDMARK GROUP The Landmark Group is a full service landscape company specializing in design/build and property maintenance. We offer excellent wages and benefits. We are seeking dedicated dynamic individuals with a passion for the green industry to fill the following positions. We are located in Thornbury, Ontario, 15 min. west of Collingwood, ON Field Labourers/Experienced Foreman. For Foreman position you must have: • 3+ year of previous experience in construction landscape. • Previous experience leading and supervising your own crew. • Reliable transportation. • Exceptional knowledge of landscape industry, materials, and products. • Experience in driveway, walkway, front entrance, patio, step, and retaining wall installations. • Knowledge in reading blueprint designs. For Labourer position you must have: • Reliable transportation. • Some experience in construction or landscape construction. • Enthusiastic and hard working. Please indicate the position you are applying for, as well as related experience and qualifications. Please fax or email your resume in confidence to: FAX: 519-599-3991 EMAIL: Koos Torenvliet koos@thelandmarkgroup.ca www.thelandmarkgroup.ca We thank you for your interest, no phone calls please. Only qualified individuals will be contacted.
View these ads and more on our website
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOREMAN Exel Contracting Inc. a commercial landscape construction company est. 1989. Serving Eastern Ontario (based in Ottawa) requires an experienced foreman.We offer an excellent wage and benefit package. Fax resume to (613) 831-2794 Or email ian@exelcontracting.ca
28 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
www.horttrades.com/ classifieds
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES INTERNATIONAL LANDSCAPING INC. Multiple award winning industry leader has the following opportunities: HORTICULTURE FOREPERSON (SEASONAL PLANTING) A high degree of horticultural skill and knowledge. Horticulture related Certification an asset; Demonstrated supervisory and communication skills; The ability to physically participate in day-to-day planting and maintenance; A demonstrated knowledge of trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals; The ability to arrange and maintain all plant material according to best cultural practices; The ability to identify insects, diseases and weeds, and to recommend the most effective manner of treatment; A positive, friendly manner to ensure excellence in customer service and employee morale; A valid driver’s licence (D Class an asset) HORTICULTURE FOREPERSON Strong horticultural background; A high degree of horticultural skill and knowledge. Horticulture related Certification an asset; Demonstrated supervisory and communication skills; The ability to physically participate in day-to-day planting and maintenance; A demonstrated knowledge oftrees, shrubs perennials and annuals; The ability to arrange and maintain all plant material according to best cultural practices; The ability to identify insects, diseases and weeds, and to recommend the most effective manner oftreatment; A positive, friendly manner to ensure excellence in customer service and employee morale; A valid driver’s licence (D Class an asset); Year-round employment. SEASONAL PLANTING HELP Various openings for seasonal planting help. Requirements: Physical fitness; Excellent work ethic; Willingness to work on Saturdays; Ability to follow instructions; Love of the outdoors and seasonal planting LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN Job requirements: Strong horticultural skills; Experience with lawn care equipment; Must have valid driver’s licence (Class D an asset); Minimum 1-3 years experience required; Year round employment LANDCAPE CONSTRUCTION TECHNICIAN Required skills and education: 3-4 years hands-on experience; Some college/CEGEP/ vocational and technical training; Construction
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES or landscape company experience; Construction skills: Rock gardens, decks, fieldstone paths, stone garden walls, fences, ornamental ponds and waterfalls, interlocking brick, poured concrete, retaining walls, natural flagstone paving and walls, pre-cast concrete paving and walls, grading and planting experience; Valid driver’s license (D-class) machine operator and carpentry skills a definite asset; Excellent communication and time management skills. Work with an Industry Leader! Please send your resume to: Human Resources Ph: (905) 876-3000 Fax: (905) 876-0400 E-mail: admin@intland.ca www.internationallandscaping.com Thank you for your interest. Please note: candidates under consideration will be contacted. ONTARIO LANDSCAPING LIMITED Experienced landscape labourers required to perform manual work. To assist in cultivating, digging and planting of trees. Labourer hourly rate $15.00. Also required driver – class A licence, Z certificate and mobile crane operator 0-8. Driver hourly rate $17.50. Seasonal employment starting April 1/10 to Nov. 30/10. Job Site Keswick, Ont. Fax resume to (905) 898-0360 or call (905) 898-6856
MAKE A “MOVE” IN YOUR LANDSCAPE CAREER
We are an award-winning Montreal based landscape design/build company with a 29-year reputation for creating fine quality, high-end residential landscape environments. Due to our success, we are seeking enthusiastic, detail oriented, quality conscious candidates that simply love to landscape, for career opportunities on our team: • Landscape Operations Manager Min. 5 years experience in all aspects of high-end design/build and related skills.
• Landscape Forepersons
Min. 3 years experience in high-end design/ build and related skills.
• Landscape Installation Technicians Min. 2 years experience.
Our company offers excellent compensation for excellent people, performance bonus and benefit packages, and the opportunity to grow and be successful. Kindly email of fax your resume to: Attention: G.H. Curtis FAX: 514-684-6478 E-mail: careers@plantenance.com www.plantenance.com
ADVERTISER’S INDEX COMPANY
PAGE
PHONE
WEBSITE
Braun Nursery Ltd...............................................11.......... 800-246-6984.......................... www.braungroup.com Canadale Nurseries Ltd.......................................2........... 519-631-1008.............................. www.canadale.com Connon Nurseries/NVK Holdings Inc.................31.......... 905-628-0112...................www.connonnurseries.com Future Road Solutions Inc..................................32.......... 905-336-3369..............www.futureroadsolutions.com G & L Group (Draglam Salt.)..............................15.......... 416-798-7050......................... www.draglamsalt.com Hillen Nursery Inc.............................................16-17.......519-264-9057 Legends Landscape Supply Inc.........................18.......... 905-638-5999....................... www.landscapestore.ca Newroads National Leasing................................27.......... 416-587-1021................. www.newroadsleasing.com Nisco National Leasing.......................................23.......... 888-634-9559...............lcatalano@niscocanada.com Sheridan Nurseries.............................................12.......... 416-798-7970................www.sheridannurseries.com Sipkens Nurseries Ltd.........................................19.......... 866-843-0438................. www.sipkensnurseries.com Stam Nurseries.....................................................9........... 519-424-3350.................... www.stamsnurseries.com Stonemen’s Valley Inc.........................................24.......... 905-841-8400..................www.stonemensvalley.com TLC Professional Landscaping..........................19.......... 877-482-2323...................www.landscapesafety.com Uxbridge Nurseries Ltd........................................3........... 905-655-3379................www.uxbridgenurseries.com
Get INSPIRED Get CONNECTED
V. Kraus Nurseries Ltd........................................20.......... 905-689-4022.....................www.krausnurseries.com Winkelmolen Nursery Ltd....................................14.......... 519-647-3912.........................www.winkelmolen.com Zander Sod Co Ltd..............................................20.......... 877-727-2100............................www.zandersod.com
HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010 29
PROSPERITY PARTNERS
Which way to the exit door? By Jacki Hart CLP Prosperity Partners program manager
O
ne thing I never thought about for a long time with my business was how to get out of it when I wanted to, and to come away with a little something worthwhile to show for my years of effort. Most entrepreneurs and ‘solo-preneurs’ have a hard enough time juggling the day-to-day balance and challenges in their business – let alone to make time for planning for an exit strategy from their Jacki Hart business. Planning for that exit requires a lot of thought and preparation – often years in advance. I found out the hard way that selling a business will involve determining its value without me, the owner. And, selling a business has no comparison to selling a car, or a piece of real estate. It is a long and complicated process that requires negotiation, tax implications, flexibility, and air tight systems. All are required to ensure smooth transitions between owners, and with customers and staff. This month, I invited Roy Sieben from SB Partners to answer some questions about succession planning. SB Partners is working to share resources with the Prosperity Partners program. The business is fully engaged with many LO members on their respective journeys to prosperity. Here are Roy’s answers to my questions: Q. Please explain the concept of succession planning relevant to small businesses and ‘solo-preneurs.’ A. Succession planning is a process, not an event. In developing a plan, you need to have a clear understanding about where the organization, your current needs and your mindset are now, and where you want to be at a determined time in the future. Then work out how to bridge the gap between now and the end date. In summary, that becomes your exit plan. Q. Who should be thinking about succession planning? A. Anyone who is in business should develop an exit strategy. You will exit your business. It is inevitable that someone other than you will own and run your business in the foreseeable future. The question is, when?
(Jacki’s note: unless you are planning to fold and retire – in which case you will not have any return on your time invested in the business, nor a retirement income.) Q. At what stage of business should an owner start the succession planning process? A. Personally, I think that smart business owners begin to consider succession planning within the first five years of business. What we are striving towards is to maximize the value of the business. Having that objective clear in your mind will assist in making decisions about investment in infrastructure, employee training and other long term investments that will contribute to increased business value. Q. Where do you start with succession planning? A. The process begins with you. You are probably not planning to suffer a serious illness or accident that will prevent you from running your company, but in life there are no certainties. Ask yourself these questions: What would happen to the business without you at the helm? Who could run your business effectively in your absence? Who would you want to run your business? Who would actually want to run your business? Are they ready? What income would you, or your family require to maintain your lifestyle? How much is the business worth? Do you have appropriate insurance in place? Are your legal affairs in order in terms of wills, shareholder agreements, etc.? The answer to these questions will set the stage for next steps in the succession plan. Q. How do I put a value on my business? A. In addition to the value of the assets which a company owns, the value of a business is a function of its ability to generate cash flow and of the risks associated with those cash flows. Valuation is generally based upon a multiple of projected annual cash flows, which is generally estimated on the basis of earnings in the last three to five years. The multiples used will generally reflect the particular risk factors associated with the company and its industry. Q. What factors affect the value of my business? A. Business value is determined by a variety of factors such as its reliance on the owner, the level of infrastructure in place (or not), diversity of customer base, stability of
30 HORTICULTURE REVIEW - FEBRUARY 15, 2010
supply, stability of company revenue stream, not to mention reputation. Q. Who do I turn to for advice? A. Succession planning requires input from a variety of sources: your chartered accountant, lawyer, insurance specialist, banker, personal financial planner and possibly a specialist in succession planning and facilitation. Q. What is the most common method of succeeding a business to family, to employees, to a third party? A. In my opinion there is no common method of succeeding a business, as each business and each purchaser is unique. You may or may not have a family member who wants the business, or is capable of managing it. You may or may not have employees who want the business, or are capable of managing it, and perhaps a sale to a third party would provide the best possible outcome to you and your family. The process of succession planning should provide the answer. Q. Who are the players I need to involve to properly and legally sell my business? A. Your chartered accountant and lawyer will be integral to the successful negotiation of the sale. Proper planning can have a significant impact on the tax cost of the transaction. Ask the right questions. Make sure your advisors are experienced in purchase and sale of businesses. Q. What advice do you have in dealing with personalities during the process, particularly family members? A. Often, emotions run deeper than common sense. Using an independent facilitator can assist a business owner and family members in resolving distracting and potentially toxic disagreements. An independent facilitator can assist in working through these difficulties, often with the input of other specialized professionals. I highly recommend you take a moment to think about your retirement plan, and your future in your business. Please take a moment to go to www.horttrades.com/prosperity on what’s new in program offerings – we’re growing all the time! Visit the Prosperity Forum – and start a ‘thread’ with a question or comment – www. horttrades.com/forum. - It’s there for YOU!
Symphony
Compose a of
Colour
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BP Landscaping 905-840-1111 • BRAMPTON
Courtland Gardens Landscaping Centre 519-688-3777 • TILLSONBURG
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