The KMA 135 R battery-powered KombiEngine is a versatile tool that can efficiently loosen soil, blow debris, trim grass and hedges, prune trees, manicure paths and gardens. The use of one powerhead with 14 separate attachments welcomes more storage space and less maintenance of multiple tools. The KMA 135 R is lightweight, emission-free and quiet in operation. The effortless KMA 135 R features a brushless motor and provides the performance that landscapers and groundskeepers require to complete their work in a timely manner. The ergonomic loop handle provides greater comfort and less user fatigue. Built with three power settings to offer the momentum required for a task, while conserving battery energy and longer battery runtimes.
SPECIFICATIONS
GROUNDS
Stunning new cultivars are headed to Canadian nurseries and garden centres this spring. Take a sneak peek and start dreaming about next year’s landscapes.
Landscapers across the country find solutions for water restrictions. BY
JULIA HARMSWORTH
HERSELF A WINNER
Pushing back against imposter syndrome. BY
KARINA SINCLAIR
Be informed, be aware and stay safe. BY
J LYNN FRASER
Echinacea Sunseekers Coneflowers
This new echinacea series boasts fluffy, semi-double flowers that add vibrant colour all summer long. Gardeners will love the plentiful blooms, and pollinators can’t resist the nectar-rich cones. Sunseekers Pumpkin Pie offers layers of orange, yellow, pink and peach all on one plant. The series includes three other must-have colours including Sweet Fuchsia, White Perfection and Golden Sun. (Zone 4) Monrovia
LANDSCAPE TRADES
ASSISTANT
MANAGING
DIGITAL
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Gerald Boot CLM, Lindsay Drake Nightingale, Jeremy Feenstra, Mark Fisher, Hank Gelderman CHT, Nick Winkelmolen
Landscape Trades is published by Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association 7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 comments@landscapetrades.com www.landscapetrades.com
Time to rest, reflect and reset after a busy growing season.
SINCLAIR
Sponge city concept helps manage stormwater runoff.
GALLE
48 ART OF GARDENING
It’s time for garden centres to focus on service for retail success.
ART VANDEN ENDEN
LEGAL MATTERS
Four common legal mistakes landscape companies can’t afford to make.
LAI-KING HUM
DESIGNERS CORNER
Great garden design starts from the ground up.
WILSON
Suggestions for dealing with drought conditions and stubborn weeds.
John
• 79.9 cc 2-stroke engine
• 835 average CFM
• 40N blowing force
• 386 km/h max. air speed
• Hip or tube throttle models available
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The ECHO PB-7910 is engineered for professionals who demand top-tier performance. With a 79.9 cc engine, this backpack blower delivers a powerful 40N blowing force. Clearing leaves, debris, and grass clippings has never been this efficient.
Rest, reflect and reset for the next season
BY KARINA SINCLAIR
AT THIS TIME OF YEAR some flower beds and containers still boast a few colourful end-of-season blooms, and we’re starting to see spots of colour in the trees. I welcome this visual feast as sugar maple, red oak or dogwood transform our canopies from verdant greens to blazing oranges, reds and yellows. It’s a final flex of nature’s creativity. It’s also a signal to Canadians to start anticipating the next great season. The first fall of snow may be just around the corner, offering a reset to a busy year. Before that happens, there’s a final push to complete garden clean ups, plant bulbs, rake leaves for mulch or 100 other tasks that need to be done before the 2024 growing season wraps up. Once you get a chance to relax, grab a beverage, put your feet up and settle in with the Grounds Management and New Plants issue of Landscape Trades
If you’re already craving a return to spring, head over to page 24 to read up on new plants coming to market in 2025. This yearly feature is a favourite for our team to put together, with help from Rodger Tschanz, trial garden manager extraordinaire from the University of Guelph. You’ll find a dazzling array of woody plants, annuals and perennials sure to delight even your most demanding clients. We’ve included a new category for tender perennials because we just couldn’t resist some of the fun specimens being released next spring.
With scorching temperatures and low water tables this past summer, many municipalities implemented water restrictions. On page 36 Julia Harmsworth brings us insights from across the country as landscapers shared their frustrations — and water-wise solutions — as they managed landscapes during droughts. Dr. Nadina Galle also explores sponge cities (page 46) and takes us on a
tour of a smart storm pond diverting millions of gallons of water from New York City sewers.
Landscapers who spend time in tall grasses or naturalized areas might want to tuck their pants into their socks after reading about zoonotic diseases on page 44. Lynn Fraser brings us some eye-opening statistics about the various viruses and illnesses that insects and animals can transmit to humans, and offers advice for avoiding infection.
Recently, I toured a gorgeous garden by Samantha Ulasy, a young landscape designer winning all kinds of accolades in Kelowna, B.C., including accreditation as the first Canadian to be designated a Proven Winners Certified Landscape Professional. She shares how her love of plants, strong brand loyalty and belief in herself has propelled her career forward. Read her profile on page 40 and then enjoy an episode of Down the Garden Path featuring her three-tiered Tuscan-inspired landscape on YouTube: youtu.be/LaQIfOODbWM
Whatever your fall looks like, I hope you take time to reflect on and relish your accomplishments so far and feel excited for what comes next. For some, that means the snow and ice season; for others, it means business development, training, marketing and maintenance. As the growing season ends, lots of new opportunities are just beginning.
Until next time,
Managing Editor, Multimedia
We’re always planning our next issue and we’d love to hear your feedback, story ideas and thoughts. Reach out to me at editor@landscapetrades.com.We wish you a sunny and productive summer — and a great snow and ice season ahead! LT
Karina Sinclair
ALL-OUT PERFORMANCE FOR WHEN YOU’RE ALL ABOUT THE WORK
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BOBCAT OF DURHAM EAST, LTD. Courtice 905-404-9990 www.BobcatofDurhamEast.com
BOBCAT OF GREY BRUCE Owen Sound 519-372-9100 www.BobcatofTC.com
BOBCAT OF HAMILTON, LTD. Stoney Creek 905-643-3177 www.BobcatofHamilton.com
BOBCAT OF HURON Walton 877-887-6365
BOBCAT OF LONDON, LTD. London 519-455-4900 www.BobcatofLondon.ca
BOBCAT OF MUSKOKA Muskoka 249-390-7000 www.OakenEquipment.ca
BOBCAT OF PARRY SOUND Nobel 705-342-1717 www.BobcatofParrySound.com
BOBCAT OF PETERBOROUGH Peterborough 705-748-9199 www.BobcatofPeterborough.com
BOBCAT OF SAULT STE. MARIE Sault Ste. Marie 705-949-7379 www.Bobcat-ssm.com
BOBCAT OF STRATFORD Stratford 519-393-6040 www.BobcatofStratford.ca
BOBCAT OF THE TRI-CITIES, LTD. Kitchener 519-579-9100 www.BobcatofTC.com
BOBCAT OF WINDSOR Windsor 844-807-0120 www.OakenEquipment.ca
BOBCAT OF TORONTO Brampton 416-679-4172 Scarborough 416-679-4171 www.OakenEquipment.ca
Equipment World Inc. Thunder bay 807-623-9561 www.Bobcat-tbay.com
Splash Drought Guard boasts advanced water-retention technology, allowing a lawn to maintain its vibrancy even in water-scarce conditions. Developed by golf turf care experts in Canada, just one application of Splash delivers long-lasting results to reduce the need for constant watering.
yardzy.ca
LT Picks
IF YOU’RE BUSY MAINTAINING CLIENT LAWNS AND LANDSCAPES,
WE HAVE A FEW SUGGESTIONS FOR DEALING WITH DROUGHT CONDITIONS AND STUBBORN WEEDS.
Hot Color, Dry Garden
This guide offers advice for adding colour to the garden, information about designing for structure and texture, and a plant directory that features drought-tolerant plants that dazzle. Hot Color, Dry Garden is a must-have guide for gardeners affected by drought and low-water conditions.
ngb.org
Super Sized Salvia
LIVING LARGE™ Big Sky
This larger-than-life new Salvia is a must have for your garden! A magnificent floral display of violet blue flowers is supported by a dense rosette of large green leaves. Zones 3-8.
Salvia PPAF CPBRAF
TURF MANAGEMENT professIonal confessional
WHAT DO YOU WISH THE GENERAL PUBLIC UNDERSTOOD ABOUT TURF MANAGEMENT?
Agrassy yard might look simple to some, but keeping this complex ecosystem healthy, vibrant and manicured requires deep knowledge and dedication. Landscape Trades asked turf management professionals to describe their biggest challenges to help dispel the myths surrounding their specialty as they strive to maintain lawns, sports fields, golf courses, parks, boulevards and other turf-covered properties in our communities.
“ I wish the general public knew that cultural practices like proper watering and mowing can make the biggest difference in the way a lawn looks. Yes, fertilizing and weed control is important, but a homeowner or turf manager plays a major role in the appearance and health of the lawn. Watering at the right time at the right amount and mowing high with a sharp mower blade are extremely important to the health and appearance of the lawn.”
- CHRIS L.
“ Fertilizing in the spring and winter is the best way to combat weeds.”
- HOUSTON R.
“A healthy lawn is based on many factors, nothing complicated, that need to be addressed, e.g., soil health, seed selection appropriate to the situation, nutrients, mowing (or not) and any other environmental, cultural or bylaw factors that will affect your management decisions. Equally important is that this takes time; there is no quick fix.”
- DAN C.
I wish the general public knew that…
“ That weed management isn't just a spray. It's the entirety of inputs and efforts combined over time to build a thicker, healthier lawn, from the soil right up to the maintenance practices. I think many people including those in the industry undermine the importance of those efforts (from a sharp blade, to the frequency of mowing and the height of the cut, and the volume and frequency of watering cycles). Everything has an effect on the health of the lawn. When industry counterparts work together, everything grows healthier and works better!
Healthy lawns aren't just for aesthetics; they’re essential living systems that contribute to our urban ecosystem. Turfgrass captures carbon, provides a substantial cooling effect, reduces soil erosion, filters rainwater and traps dust and pollutants. It's a vital green space that enhances our environment, supports biodiversity and offers a resilient surface for recreation. Neglecting or removing lawns harms these benefits, making urban areas hotter, more polluted and less sustainable.”
Turf management can be a rewarding career because...
“ It allows us to see the tangible results of our efforts in real time. There's immense satisfaction in knowing that the work we do contributes to cleaner air, cooler urban environments and healthier communities. We’re creating and maintaining spaces where people can connect with nature, play and relax, all while contributing to the greater environmental good. It's a career where passion meets purpose, and the rewards are as green as the grass we nurture.“
- KYLE T.
Platinum Natural Stone specializes in providing high quality Armour Stone for landscaping, retaining walls and shoreline construction projects. Platinum offers a variety of products including: Armour Stone, Flagstone, Weathered Cap Rock, Natural and Saw Cut Steps and Skidded Armour. Platinum is open year round for all your Armour Stone needs. Rain, snow or shine!
Promises to be BIGGER THAN EVER
Registration for Congress 2025 is now open online.
The premier event, known as Canada’s largest annual and longest running trade show and conference for landscape professionals, will take place Jan. 7-9, 2025, at the Toronto Congress Centre.
Produced by Landscape Ontario, Congress is a one-stop-shop for the latest equipment, tools, materials and supplies. Organizers have expanded the show floor this year to include more exhibitors, and to feature an all-new electric-power demonstration area.
The cost for a trade show only pass is $30 for an association member and $50 for a non-member. Students, media and educators get in free of charge. Pass holders get access to all three days of the trade show, plus LIVE Stage demos and the Wednesday night Tailgate Party (this year themed ‘Octoberfest’).
CONFERENCE SESSIONS FOR EVERYONE
The Congress Conference is back with industry expert speakers covering topics from growing trees to growing your business reputation through social media (and everything in between). Sessions run the first half of each show day to allow attendees
to learn in the morning, then explore the trade show and free LIVE stage education while on site.
A three-day Conference Pass is $275 for a provincial association member, $325 for nonmember or $50 for a student or educator. Prices go up after Dec. 15. A Conference Pass also gets you admission to the Tailgate Party and recorded access to all sessions for a limited time.
FEATURED EVENTS
Tickets are available for two warm up events held at the Delta Hotel Toronto Airport (across the street from the Toronto Congress Centre) on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. The Landscape Designers Conference is a full-day event with lunch and closing reception. Each conference session qualifies for one Landscape Horticulture Certification (LHCP) CEU. The Landscape Ontario (LO) Peer to Peer Network will also host a full-day event with lunch that is open to all LO member business owners.
Early bird pricing for Monday events is available until Dec. 15, and includes access to all three days of the trade show, LIVE Stage education and Tailgate Party. Visit LOcongress.com/feature-events for more details and full pricing.
ALBERTA TRADE SHOW SEEKING
Organizers of the Green Industry Show and Conference (GISC) are seeking exhibitors for the largest horticultural trade show in Western Canada, happening Nov. 20-21 in Red Deer, Alta.
Presented by Landscape Alberta, this year’s event promises to be their most exciting yet. The theme is "Branching Out," and with a well-rounded line up of conference speakers, the goal is to spark
new ideas for drawing in clients, supporting and inspiring your team, expanding your view and impact in the industry, and building the knowledge and skills that can make your business even more successful.
Lisa Brick, events manager at Landscape Alberta, says “GISC continues to grow stronger, offering unparalleled opportunities for industry professionals to connect, learn and thrive. With 45 years of successful
trade shows to our credit, we know our visitors are industry professionals with buying power!”
Don't miss your chance to showcase your products and services to a targeted audience of landscape, greenhouse, garden centre, nursery, turf and tree care professionals. To reserve your booth space, visit greenindustryshow.com or contact Lisa Brick at lisa.brick@landscape-alberta.com.
Strassa 60mm
Strassa modernizes old-world charm as a single-sized gem with a gently textured surface
As part of the Eterna Collection of products, Strassa is manufactured using our EliteFinish™ face-mix process for a finer-textured and more durable finish than standard pavers and beautifully vibrant, stain-resistant colours, thanks to Oaks’ ColorBold ™ technology. And thanks to its pronounced spacer bars, Strassa can also function as a permeable or drainage paver
2024 plants of the year announced
Each year, the National Garden Bureau (NGB) hand picks a selection of plants to spotlight as the cream of the crop, including one houseplant, one annual, one perennial, one bulb, one shrub and one edible. These chosen ones aren't just your average greenery — they're popular, easy to grow and versatile. Learn more about these botanical superstars, including their history along with some insights from NGB.
FEATURED HOUSEPLANT AFRICAN VIOLET
These beauties have a rich history dating back to the late 1920s when the first commercial hybrids hit the scene. It was from the vintage variety “Blue Boy” that the first double was developed in 1939. Fast forward to 1942, gardeners saw the introduction of the first pink and white violets, each one adding a new splash of colour to windowsills. Today, commercial African Violets are grown almost exclusively in the single crown, clustered bouquet style. With ongoing innovations, these plants are now hardier and longerlasting than ever, making them a dream for interior plantscapes.
4 Season Clean.
FEATURED EDIBLE SQUASH
From pumpkins to gourds, the Cucurbita genus has a rich history dating back over 8,000 years to Central and South America. The indigenous people of the Americas included squash as a central component of the “Three Sisters” planting system, which combined maize, beans and squash to create a mutually beneficial ecosystem. Some squash varieties are grown primarily for their ornamental value, while others are used for a variety of practical purposes and delicious dishes.
FEATURED ANNUAL ANGELONIA
Angelonia, sometimes referred to as “summer snapdragon,” is a genus of approximately 30 species, which grow natively in regions from Mexico to Argentina. They grow mostly upright, with stalks filled with florists that resemble tiny orchids. The bloom’s shape aids in pollination through hairs in the inner corolla that help bees forage for pollen. Once established, these vibrant flowers thrive in the heat and drier soils. Angelonia are low-maintenance with no need for pruning or constant deadheading, making them a superstar in the garden.
What started as an efficient method of cleaning large surface areas during the warmer months, has proven itself an invaluable tool.
If you need a broom for seasonal applications, then you will appreciate the added benefits an HLA broom can provide all year.
Contact your local dealer to get a clean sweep all year long.
BUY DIRECT FROM THE GROWER
FEATURED BULB LILY
The lily is a timeless beauty that's been stealing hearts for centuries. With origins dating back thousands of years, these flowers have earned their place in mythology and folklore, symbolizing everything from purity to renewal. These flowers have a unique floral structure that promotes cross-pollination by attracting pollinators. The intricate shapes, vibrant colours and alluring scents of lily flowers have evolved to ensure successful reproduction through pollination, contributing to their incredible resilience and diversity.
FEATURED SHRUB BUDDLEIA
Also known as the "butterfly bush", this plant is a magnet for butterflies, drawing them in with its sweet-smelling flowers and vibrant colours. It’s so alluring, many butterfly gardens are designed around Buddleia as the core element to support these beautiful creatures. Sporting a lesser-known nickname of “bombsite bush,” it's also a symbol of resilience and hope, with a history of springing to life in the most unexpected places, even amidst the rubble of war-torn lands.
FEATURED PERENNIAL HOSTA
These leafy wonders are the MVPs of shady spots, bringing a pop of colour and texture to even the deepest corners of your landscape. They are tough as nails and incredibly generous — hostas can easily be split at nearly any time of year and shared with friends, earning them the title of "friendship plants." With thousands of varieties to choose from, hostas bring fantastic textural interest throughout the growing season. Their flowers also attract hummingbirds, butterflies and bees.
Spring Meadow Nursery and Proven Winners ColorChoice Shrubs announced a new initiative to offer a sustainable package option to its grower partners.
The new package is made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE #2) that uses 83 per cent less plastic than conventional industry containers. Created by PlantRight, the package is made of woven plastic that includes handles for easy transport, a wide base for stability and root expansion, and drainage holes at the base and sides.
“The packages that we developed are not only economical and better for the environment, they eliminate blow over in the nursery and increase root health. This leads to a faster growing, more viable and more cost-effective shrub or tree. We have been utilizing the package in our own extensive growing operations with amazing results. We applaud Spring Meadow and the Proven Winners ColorChoice brand for recognizing the value of the PlantRight Package and becoming an early adopter of the next step in nursery growing innovation,” says Jeff Davis, general manager for PlantRight.
“The partnership with PlantRight was a natural choice,” said Spring Meadow Nursery general manager, Jeremy Deppe. “They have a wealth of experience in the packaging for our industry, and we knew they’d provide a more sustainable container solution that provides huge benefits to growers, as well as to retailers, landscapers, and homeowners. The Packages cost less, are easier to handle, install and recycle after planting.”
The new Proven Winners ColorChoice Packages are intended for use with five to 20 gallon pots as growers shift up from one to three gallon shrubs. The team at Spring Meadow has been trialing the new packages and have determined that finishing time is equal to, and sometimes less than, standard containers.
Growers interested in ordering the new Proven Winners ColorChoice Packages and discussing options to adapt their potting machines to these containers should contact their Spring Meadow Nursery account manager.
EXPERIENCE THE BEST IN COMMERCIAL BATTERY TECHNOLOGY
PRODUCTIVITY MACHINE THE ULTIMATE
The Greenworks Commercial OptimusZ™ 24kWh Stand-On Mower Is The Ultimate Productivity Machine. Engineered For All-Day Commercial Use, The Built-In 24kWh Battery Module With Safe LFP Cell Technology Allows Landscapers To Mow Up To 21 Acres Per Charge And Enjoy 8 Hours Of Run Time. Fully Charge In Just 3 Hours Using The OptimusZ™ Super Charger.
IS DESIGNED TO MAKE LOADING AND UNLOADING ANYTHING FROM THE BACK OF YOUR TRUCK BED BOTH
GOVERNMENTS EXPAND MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORTS FOR NURSERY GROWERS
The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing up to $538,000 through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) to expand the Farmer Wellness Initiative to Ontario farm workers. Of that total, nearly $178,000 will be dedicated to supporting the delivery of services in Spanish. Landscape Ontario has confirmed that eligibility is inclusive to all types of farming, including tree and plant nursery growers.
According to a 2021 study conducted by the University of Guelph, 76 per cent of farmers experience moderate or high stress. The Farmer Wellness Initiative, delivered by Agriculture Wellness Ontario and managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario Division, is a suite of free programming that provides farmers, farm workers and their family members in Ontario with unlimited access to a free, 24/7 phone line (1-866-267-6255) that connects them to tailored mental health counselling. Earlier this year, the line expanded to include farm workers, and now the expansion includes the delivery of mental health services in Spanish to better serve international agricultural workers.
With dual extension springs to assist with raising and lowering of the ramp, one-man operation is simple, easy and effortless.
Services offered through the 24/7 phone line include crisis counselling, risk assessments, and face-to-face, phone or video sessions with a counsellor.
“Farmers face unique mental health challenges as they work, day in and day out, to provide the resources we all need. They deserve reliable and accessible services to support their well-being,” said Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “The Farmer Wellness Initiative is one more way we are expanding access to care, ensuring farmers, farm workers and their families can better connect to quality care that supports their unique needs, where and when they need it.”
Sustainable CAP is a five-year (2023-2028), $3.5 billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of Canada’s agriculture, agri-food and agri‐based products sector. This includes one billion dollars in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs designed and delivered by the provinces and territories.
LYRA
LYRA
LYRA
*NANOBLAST OPTION ONLY
*NANOBLAST OPTION ONLY
The Lyra slab provides both a modern design and a highly detailed surface. Taking advantage of Best Way Stone’s DesignLoc surface refinement technology, Lyra offers a contemporary smooth finish, and is offered in a variety of colours. For a more enhanced finish, Nanoblast colour options are available in this product, providing a fine blasting to the surface, exposing specially selected granite aggregates. *NANOBLAST
The Lyra slab provides both a modern design and a highly detailed surface. Taking advantage of Best Way Stone’s DesignLoc surface refinement technology, Lyra offers a contemporary smooth finish, and is offered in a variety of colours. For a more enhanced finish, Nanoblast colour options are available in this product, providing a fine blasting to the surface, exposing specially selected granite aggregates.
The Lyra slab provides both a modern design and a highly detailed surface. Taking advantage of Best Way Stone’s DesignLoc surface refinement technology, Lyra offers a contemporary smooth finish, and is offered in a variety of colours. For a more enhanced finish, Nanoblast colour options are available in this product, providing a fine blasting to the surface, exposing specially selected granite aggregates.
SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT LYRA
SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT LYRA
SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT
HARBOUR GREY
CARRARA
HARBOUR GREY
HARBOUR GREY
FLOWERFULL
STRONG STEMS THAT DON’T FLOP, EVEN WITH WIND OR RAIN
PRODUCES 2-3X MORE BLOOMS PER SEASON THAN OTHER SMOOTH HYDRANGEAS
LUSH FOLIAGE WITH IMPROVED BACTERIAL LEAF SPOT RESISTANCE
LANDSCAPE ISTANBUL FAIR 2024 RECEIVES INTERNATIONAL APPROVAL
The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) gave its International Horticultural Trade Exhibition approval to Landscape Istanbul Fair 2024 (LIF 2024) to be held Nov. 13-15, 2024 at the Istanbul Fair Centre Türkiye.
With this global recognition, LIF 2024 is set to showcase a diverse array of ornamental plants and trees, landscaping materials and equipment, bringing together professionals from all corners of the world.
AIPH Secretary General Tim Briercliffe commented: “AIPH is proud to be endorsing this world-class exhibition, which is playing an important role in driving the horticultural market in Türkiye and the region.”
With the AIPH's seal of approval, Mustafa Gültekin Gökgül, chairman of Athena Fairs Inc., the organizer of the Landscape Istanbul Fair 2024 (LIF 2024), shared his excitement: “We are honoured to receive this accolade from the AIPH after just two editions of LIF. It is an endorsement of our vision and hard work to make LIF the most influential trade event for the ornamental plants, landscaping and horticulture industry in this region. With the approval of the AIPH, we eagerly anticipate the growth of the fair, welcoming even more international growers and buyers to LIF 2024.”
Each edition of the Landscape Istanbul Fair has been growing in stature and popularity. The previous LIF hosted over 100 exhibitors and 3,700 trade visitors from 42 countries, and this year, organizers are confident these numbers will be exceeded, promising an even more dynamic and immersive event.
Following a highly successful collaboration in 2023, LIF will again host the World Urban Parks (WUP) Symposium, where an impressive lineup of international speakers will share their expertise, project case studies and visions for the future of urban green spaces.
For more information on the AIPH-approved Landscape Istanbul Fair, visit landscapeistanbulfair.com.
NEWSSCAPE
Seferian Design Group (SDG) is proud to announce senior landscape architect, Brad Smith, has been promoted to partner within the organization. Smith’s creative vision and innovative approaches have consistently pushed the boundaries of design excellence, making a profound impact on projects, team development and the firm’s success. His dedication and leadership have been instrumental in fostering its growth, mentoring young landscape architects and enriching company culture.
“I am thrilled to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to Brad as our new partner at SDG. This marks an exciting new chapter in our journey, and I am delighted to have him on board,” said Haig Seferian, founder and principal landscape architect. “Brad’s expertise, creativity and passion for landscape architecture are truly inspiring.
BRAD SMITH PROMOTED TO PARTNER AT SEFERIAN DESIGN GROUP
I am confident that his unique perspective and skills will greatly contribute to our mission of creating beautiful, sustainable and innovative landscapes. Together, we will continue to transform spaces, making a lasting impact on the environment and the communities we serve.”
As an award-winning landscape architect, Smith’s collaborative approach to projects focuses on creating performance-based landscapes that strengthen the role of landscape architecture and bring together creative and strategic thinking. In addition to his extensive professional experience, Smith is currently a sessional instructor at the University of Guelph’s Landscape Architecture Program, providing exercises in urban design and master planning to help students understand the integrative design process that considers ecological,
technological, socio-economic, human and aesthetic factors in land development. Projects focus on land planning, community design, urban design and public engagement. Smith was honoured as the 2023 University of Guelph Alumni Volunteer Award of Excellence recipient. He is also an invited studio design critic at the University of Guelph and has enjoyed the opportunity to engage students in dialogue about design. He mentors several landscape architects as an Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA) Advisor, assisting them in becoming full members and fully certified professionals.
Established in 1992, SDG is an awardwinning landscape architectural firm based in Burlington, Ont., with experience in public and private sectors across Canada and the U.S., and advocates a holistic approach to landscape architecture and design.
Conversations on the issues shaping landscaping and horticulture in Ontario NEW EPISODES EVERY MONTH
LISTEN FOR FREE ON YOUR FAVOURITE PODCAST APP
Sneak peek for performing plants
CALLING ALL PLANT LOVERS!
Are you ready for a sneak peek at the beautiful blossoms coming to market next spring? With help from Rodger Tschanz, University of Guelph trial gardens manager, we’ve rounded up some exciting new options to energize your landscapes in 2025.
Annuals
Osteospermum
Akila Hawaii
Sunset Mixture
An exciting segregating mix from the Akila series has vibrant bicolours, including yellow/gold with a pink centre; orange/bronze with a pink-purple centre; rose/ mauve with purple centre and bronze/scarlet with purple centre. The plant’s excellent branching helps it fill containers and the seed quality ensures high germination success. Plants are also drought tolerant once established — perfect for cool-season and coastal gardens.
PanAmerican
Seed
Geranium
Big EEZE Pink Batik
Pink Batik’s striking dark pink mosaic pattern will mesmerize anyone on its super-sized blooms covering a neatly rounded habit. It’s also a great garden performer with heat and humidity tolerance and is a 2024 All-American Selection Winner.
Dümmen Orange
Garvinea Sweet Series
Key features of this series include: high colour impact, numerous large flowers, great weather tolerance and strong resistance to pests and diseases. These plants bloom continuously from spring to frost. New varieties Sweet Maggie (shown) and Sweet Blaze deliver a punch of colour to this series. (Zone 7)
HilverdaFlorist
Dahlia Venti
Magenta + White Eye
Venti is a vigorous dahlia series for landscapes or large-size containers and makes an excellent thriller when paired with other sun-loving plants. The new Magenta + White Eye is a bicolour pink-and-white blossom that pops against deep green foliage. Dahlia attract pollinators, too — Venti’s doubleflowered form is the perfect landing pad for butterflies.
Ball/SelectaOne
Petunia Supertunia Tiara
This captivating, saturated flower emanates a white, luminescent glow from the centre, drawing consumers in for a closer look. No deadheading is needed to keep this petunia in bloom from spring to fall. Its vigour is impressive for a novelty petunia. Available in pink and blue.
Proven Winners
Angelonia Guardian Angel
Guardian Angel is 30 per cent taller and more vigorous than Archangel Angelonia. It also flowers earlier, so northern landscapers are supplied with inputs sooner to meet their markets’ needs. Huge flowers are vibrant against glossy, dark-green leaves on tall stems. It thrives in extreme heat and humidity and is an excellent upright component for large-size commercial mixes.
Ball/FloraPlant
Calibrachoa Lia Abstract
Lemon Cherry
Intriguing abstract pattern of yellow and red blooms displayed on strong, weather-tolerant plants. This special variety has been outstanding at trial sites all across Canada. Its mounding/ trailing habit makes beautiful baskets and mixed containers.
Double the sun and double the garden fun with this truly innovative double-flowered vegetative Sunflower. Get endless blooms all season long with the Sunfinity promise of unmatched garden performance and a high resistance to powdery mildew throughout the summer season. Vigorous plants with well-branched habits are versatile in both large patio containers and in ground.
Syngenta
Salvia Salgoon Series
These sturdy and robust plants offer abundant, firm flower spikes and are heat tolerant. The flowers are arranged in dense, elongated spikes that add a dramatic, eye-catching element to any garden. The series offers a uniform range of vivid colours, including newly added Lake Como (purple-blue), Lake Blueberry (deep blue) and Lake Flamingo (pink). (Zone 8)
HilverdaFlorist
Petunia hybrida
Dekko Maxx Pink
The maximum vigour of this pollinatorfriendly petunia is ideal for landscape coverage and colour. Flowering from mid-spring to summer, its smaller bloom size and low spreading habit delivers outstanding durability in the toughest landscape conditions.
Syngenta
Vinca Titan-ium
Get extra protection from the fungal disease aerial Phytophthora with new Titan-ium Vinca. The plants are fast to flower with superior branching and large-size blooms. Available in eight colour options, these flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Plants are water-wise, heat-tolerant and are generally low maintenance.
PanAmerican Seed
Impatiens hybrid
Sol Luna Prime series
This series does it all—tolerates full sun to full shade, looks stunning in containers or hanging baskets, and is spectacular in landscape beds. Abundant, large blooms make an outstanding show all summer long. Available in six colours, well-matched in habit and bloom time.
Danziger
Lobelia erinus F1 Masterpiece
Blue with Eye
The industry’s first lobelia F1 hybrid from seed on the market flowers very early, with large, striking blue flowers with a white eye, and displays a well-formed, mounding plant habit. With excellent heat tolerance in summer and impressive field performance, it looks its best in beds and fields but is also very suitable for pot and container production.
Benary
Scaevola Stardiva
This is the first-ever series of Scaevola aemula with star-shaped rather than fan-shaped flowers, lending a larger, fuller appearance to the blossoms. They are borne prolifically on compact, densely mounded to semi-trailing plants that are extremely durable in sun, heat, humidity, rain, drought and wind.
Proven Winners
Calibrachoa MiniFamous Uno Funtopia
The medium-compact habit of Funtopia Pink and Funtopia Blue makes it great for hanging baskets and containers. The tie-dye-like pattern is fresh and modern to attract attention in your garden designs, and the semi-double flowers are whimsical and sweet. They’re great for adding a textural element with other sun-loving plants.
Ball/SelectaOne
Heliopsis hybrid Punto Rosso
Yellow-orange flowers with a red centre contrast nicely with the dark foliage. Long lasting blooms were bred for improved retail shelf appearance and also offer deer resistance. (Zone 3)
ThinkPlants/Kientzler
Young Plants
Salvia Noble Knight
With its striking purple-to-blue blooms and exceptional flower power, this salvia is a must-have in your landscape. Its weather-tolerant flowers ensure continuous attractiveness. The perfect choice for first-year blooms. (Zone 3)
Dümmen Orange
Delphinium grandiflorum Hunky Dory Blue
Heavily branched and very floriferous with large blooms, Hunky Dory is one of the most uniform series of Delphinium grandiflorum. F1 vigour leads to excellent germination and young plant performance, eliminating the need to multi-sow and providing a uniform, speedy and efficient crop. (Zone 4)
ThinkPlants/Syngenta
Hibiscus Summerific Cookies and Cream
Cookies and Cream emerges in late spring already showing its dark foliage — the perfect backdrop to early season perennials. Slightly cupped six- to seven-inch bright white flowers will appear beginning in midsummer. (Zone 4)
Walters Gardens/ Proven Winners
Perennials
Echinacea SunMagic Vintage series
Vibrant flowers appear in June and continue to bloom until autumn with a compact habit, excellent branching and high flower count. Cold hardy, these eye-catching blooms hold their centres well after frost for increased garden interest in winter. (Zone 4)
ThinkPlants/BULL Plant Genetics
Salvia
Living Large Big Sky
This super-sized new salvia is a must have for your garden. A magnificent floral display of violet blue flowers is supported by a dense rosette of large green leaves. Later to bloom than other perennial salvias, it is also deer and rabbit resistant. (Zone 3)
Walters Gardens/Proven Winners
Sedum Evolution Pink Prism
Every water-wise garden needs a reliable sedum. Evolution Pink Prism was selected for its strong branching that doesn’t fall open during late season growth. The pretty, light green foliage stays tall with sparkling pink blooms that attract pollinators. Evolution Pink Prism tops out at 12 inches tall and 16 inches wide, thriving in partial to full sun. (Zone 4)
Monrovia
Dianthus
EverLast Ruby Edge
Enjoy more days of colour with EverLast than any other perennial dianthus. The EverLast series is tough as nails in all types of weather. Plants are double-flowered and have a soft fragrance. They’re nicely mounding and they continuously flower. Watch them flush in early spring, bloom late into summer and flower again in autumn. Ruby Edge is an attractive deep purple with white edges and makes beautiful garden borders. (Zone 5)
Ball/SelectaOne
Series
Another winner for the rock garden or container, this perennial features healthy foliage and compact habit. Available in five different shades, the Fire Dragon series will bring colour from July to September. (Zone 4)
Eupatorium JoJo
Joe Pye weed is a beautiful, adaptable, drought- and poor-soiltolerant perennial that is long-lived in many places. There's only one thing wrong with it — it seeds and can easily take over a home landscape in five years. Having JoJo is a game changer for designers, homeowners and even municipalities because with sterile flowers, it not only flowers longer, but the plant has no seeds to spread. (Zone 5)
Plants Nouveau
Helleborus Endless
If you’re looking for a compact, upwardfacing hellebore with an extended bloom season, this is it. Selected for its abundant and long-lasting blooms, Endless features glossy, dark green foliage topped with upward-facing flowers that start out green and transition to white. (Zone 5)
Echinacea Guatemala Papaya
First year flowering and fully programmable, these echinacea are produced from unrooted cuttings, a significant saving compared to tissue culture. Bright orange petals reflex from golden brown cones in prolific blooms. (Zone 4)
ThinkPlants/Danziger
Cobalt brings vibrant blue flowers and rich green foliage to create a striking display in any spring garden. This variety is extremely hardy and easy to grow, performing exceptionally well in shade gardens, mixed beds and woodlands as well as under highbranching shrubs. Cobalt is highly deer resistant and an effective hummingbird attractor. (Zone 4)
Silene sieboldii Fire Dragon
Jelitto Perennial Seeds
Pulmonaria Nova Cobalt
Terra Nova Nurseries
Monrovia
Agastache cana Zuni
Zuni is a sun-loving, heat and droughttolerant perennial with attractive violet flowers and dark foliage that attracts beneficial insects. It has a vigorous, bushy plant habit, a long flowering season and is suitable for landscape applications. Grows best in full sun. (Zone 5)
Benary
Phlox Early Lavender Pop
Get your summer crop production off the ground with Lavender Pop. It is the earliest flowering paniculata on the market from Dümmen Orange. This interspecific hybrid pairs unbelievable disease resistance with an excellent branching habit and small leaves and flowers. The result is a floriferous phlox that doesn’t stop blooming all season. (Zone 3)
Dümmen Orange
This Persian cornflower cultivar has a brilliant pink bloom with a light centre. It flowers in the first year and reblooms after deadheading. Suitable for cutting, as a honey bee food plant and flowering pots. (Zone 3)
Jelitto Perennial Seeds
Echinacea French Tips
Large, fragrant pink flowers with distinctive, whitetipped petals, making French Tips a perfect addition to mixed beds and border edges. This perennial displays a dense, bushy habit and produces a plethora of flowers, blooming from June through October. French Tips is a powerful pollinator and hummingbird attractor and thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. (Zone 4)
Terra Nova Nurseries
Veronica Skyward Lilac
This Veronica offers a high flower count on a dense, upright habit and boasts continuous blooming. Its durability ensures plants grow without breakage on sturdy stems that resist falling open. Pollinator friendly and powdery mildew resistant, the new Skyward Lilac is an elegant colour, sure to be a rewarding addition to any garden design. (Zone 4b)
Ball/Darwin Perennials
Centaurea dealbata Pink Passion
Eucalyptus globulus StyX
A unique and eye-catching specimen plant with attractive, large silvery-blue leaves, Eucalyptus globulus StyX makes a great thriller in a mixed container. It is a fast-growing, extremely vigorous plant with extraordinary branching. (Zone 9)
Benary
Tender Perennials
This year, we received a number of very interesting new plant submissions that didn’t fit into our traditional categories. These unique specimens could easily grace an indoor conservatory for winter before moving outdoors for the patio season. Note the hardiness zones listed are provided by plant breeders and are mostly based on the USDA scale.
Agapanthus Bridal Veil
Chosen for its unique compact habit and plentiful bright white blooms, this agapanthus features loads of flowers covering strong stems that reach only about a foot high. Perfect for mass planting or as a container showstopper. A perennial in warm climate zones, it can also be grown as an annual in cooler climates. (Zone 7)
Monrovia
Camellia
Brew-Tea-Ful Tea
The first non-fruiting camellia available from Bushel and Berry produces three types of tea, making it easy and affordable for growers to diversify their edible program with just one plant. Brew-Tea-Ful does especially well in warm climates and can be positioned as a unique evergreen hedge. (Zone 7)
Star Roses and Plants
Dampiera Purple Oz
Enjoy an abundance of pollinator-friendly purple flowers atop lush, silvergreen foliage for long-lasting contrast in the landscape. This variety is tolerant of heat and drought and also grows well in containers where it is not hardy. (Zone 8)
Star Roses and Plants
Vaccinium corymbosum Bountiful Belle Blueberry
Bountiful Belle’s new growth brings hues of icy rose and lime green. In fall and winter, it transitions to a rosy red. In summer, it is covered with delicious plump berries. Topping out at four feet tall and wide, this blueberry delivers in every season. (Zone 7)
Monrovia
Passiflora Poppin’ Passion Passion Fruit
The small fruit collection from Bushel and Berry now includes a passion fruit that thrives in warm climates and offers container-friendly, easy-to-grow attributes. This shrub offers abundant production of large delicious fruit thanks to unique tropical flowers that are loved by pollinators. It’s ideal for patio containers but also overwinters well indoors. (Zone 9)
Star Roses and Plants
Derette P1000 Mini Skid Steer
● Kubota diesel power, HANSA closed-loop hydraulics
● Standard 4 in 1 bucket and side shift pallet forks
● 7.3” ground clearance with 8” wide tracks
● 35.4” wide machine with 1,100lb rated load capacity
● 3,390lb machine weight with standard CII attachment plate
● 2 year warranty
Electric Dumper Cart
● Battery powered - no gas, oil, fumes, or noise
● 8 - 10 hours runtime with 1,100lb load capacity
● Hydraulic dumping at the touch of a button
● 3 forward & 1 reverse variable speeds
● Standard smart charger & 2 year warranty
Rosa Reflecting Glory
This rose is grown under licence with Vineland in recognition of J.C. Bakker’s 75th anniversary in 2024 and has full, fragrant apricot flowers that are set atop upright semi-glossy dark green foliage. This continuous bloomer has a strong resistance to black spot and cercospora leaf spot. (Zone 5a)
J.C. Bakker
Rosa Sunbelt Garden Flame
As the name suggests, this rose adds a striking multi-colour effect to the garden with abundant non-fading blooms emerging deep yellow before transitioning through flaming shades of orange and deep velvet red. Count on top performance in dry climates and heat resilience. (Zone 5)
Star Roses and Plants
Woody Plants
Rosa Tiamo
This grandiflora rose has double, non-fading red blooms that do not burn, even in high temperatures. It has high disease resistance, repeat blooming and a lovely mild fragrance. Tiamo is a continuous rebloomer and is disease resistant. (Zone 5)
Star Roses and Plants
Hydrangea American Lace Dark Pink
Native to North America, American Lace produces more flowers than other smooth hydrangea varieties and has sturdier stems that keep its large blooms from flopping open midseason. Also available in pink and white. (Zone 3)
Star Roses and Plants
Picea pungens Moonstone
Moonstone is a well-mannered little gem that has bright blue foliage and maintains a compact, rounded form from youth to maturity. The perfect size and shape for suburban gardens, Moonstone adds an easy-care pop of vivid blue to the landscape for years of enjoyment. (Zone 2)
Iseli Nursery
Hydrangea paniculata
Little Lime Punch
Blooms emerge lime green, but change progressively from the bottom up in an array of white, light pink and rich red. With a compact habit and strong stems, you'll find that it's as useful in the landscape as it is beautiful. (Zone 3)
Proven Winners
Hydrangea arborescens Flowerfull
Flowerfull has superior genetics that produce significantly bolder blooms and sturdier upright stems that don’t flop in wind and rain. With two to three times more blooms per season than other Hydrangea arborescens, this low-maintenance marvel makes for an outstanding focal point in smaller landscapes and commercial settings alike. (Zone 3)
First Editions
Picea pungens Monty
Monty has a classic conical Christmas tree shape with a strong leader as well as long, thin, bluest of blue needles. The small size and compact habit with shimmering frosty blue foliage makes this tree a versatile specimen for today’s small landscapes. (Zone 2)
Iseli Nursery
Thuja occidentalis Golden Child
Shows excellent heat and sun tolerance and great garden performance. This easy-to-grow, compact, globe-shaped arborvitae literally glows in the garden with beautiful, finely cut foliage. It handles summer sun with little input, and in the winter the foliage takes on bronze hues. (Zone 5)
Monrovia
RADOPTING BEST PRACTICES AND TECHNOLOGY WHEN WATER IS SCARCE
BY JULIA HARMSWORTH
In Whistler, B.C., there’s no watering on Sundays.
Under a bylaw approved in May 2024, you can only water outdoors on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, or Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, depending on where you live. The time of day you can water also depends on what you’re watering and what type of irrigation system you have.
Drought conditions, wildfires and a low snowpack prompted these restrictions. In April, the Vancouver region’s snowpack sat at 56 per cent of its normal volume — causing the City to introduce a once-per-week lawn watering rule from May 1 until Oct. 15.
Agriculture Canada’s drought map shows several parts of British Columbia and Alberta are facing extreme drought conditions. Limited precipitation and high temperatures worsened these conditions in July. Eightyfour per cent of British Columbia was classified as abnormally dry or in drought conditions going into August.
Drought has raised the risk of wildfires — with flames raging across Alberta and causing devastation in Jasper in July. The tinder dry conditions have impacted the amount of available surface water in lakes and rivers, threatening reservoirs, wells and aquifers.
Strict water restrictions are not unique to western Canada; landscape and horticulture professionals across the country are also wrestling with similar watering bans. Landscape Trades reached out to several industry members to learn how watering restrictions have affected their businesses, what proper water management means to them and how they’re keeping plants happy during droughts.
Complex water restrictions in B.C.
Heike Stippler, president of Heike Designs Inc. in Whistler, B.C., and the British Columbia Landscape and Nursery Association (BCLNA) representative to Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA), told Landscape Trades in August that watering restrictions are very localized, and municipalities make the rules.
When asked if the Whistler watering restrictions have affected her business, Stippler said “absolutely, yes.” Her frustration, though, comes from the municipality’s refusal
to consult landscapers and horticulturists as expert stakeholders, despite their offer.
“We had little to no notice that this was coming,” Stippler said. “It was emailed to only, like, four people. Just a handful of people involved in the industry, nine days before it was presented to council, giving us little to no time to react or respond.”
Stippler isn’t opposed to reducing water usage; on the contrary, proper water management is a key horticultural best practice she’s always adhered to. Because the restrictions focus on frequency of watering, not the amount, they don’t help to reduce the volume of water being used. If a plant doesn’t need water on a Monday but can’t wait until Wednesday, Stippler says she is forced to over-water.
“We’re not able to do proper water management because now we have to water when we’re allowed to, whether we need it or not, because if we wait another day, it might be too late to water,” she explained. For Stippler, proper water management means a focus on plant and soil health, not arbitrary watering times.
“We’re dealing with the natural elements all the time, day in, day out. [Landscapers] really know, and we see what’s happening outside. So I wish [the municipality] would consider consulting with us. We could work together to properly to truly conserve water,” Stippler said.
Calgary's water main breakage
In Alberta, landscape professionals are contending with the reality of more water cuts. Calgary returned to Stage 4 outdoor water restrictions on Aug. 26, after the city found 16 more weak spots along the Bearspaw south feeder main. Use of sprinklers and garden hoses was prohibited until repairs were completed at the end of September.
These restrictions, of course, came after the June 5 feeder main rupture that prompted an emergency response, with weeks of severe water restrictions and a boil water advisory. Even before any pipes had burst, Alberta had 25 water shortage advisories in place.
Brian Gibson, chair of Landscape Alberta and president of Green Drop, a tree and turf care company in Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, said his company “definitely noticed a slowdown in sales” when the water main broke. Nobody wanted new trees planted in their yard if they couldn’t water them.
continued >
“It was tough to buy flowers. It was really tough on that part of our industry, because planting new trees and sod and everything like that — the water restrictions made it difficult,” Gibson said. Looking into the fall, Gibson is concerned about what more restrictions might mean for nurseries and garden centres. Autumn is a busy season for planting — and planting requires water. “It’s going to be hard on them. I’d hate to see the long term effects on the planting material from this season,” he said. Gibson worries further water restrictions would be very difficult for independent landscape contractors. He’d like to see a balance between conserving precious water resources and keeping trees, turf and shrubs healthy. “We’re stewards of the environment, so we all work hard to make sure that we’re training people to water properly and use water wisely,” he said. “Water resources are very important. We all want to live in a healthy environment.”
Water management on the ground
In Ontario, Sarah Beckon, chair of Landscape Ontario’s Grounds Management Group, believes a cultural change needs to happen. She worries that unless there’s a real need to turn off your tap — say, enforced water restrictions, like in Calgary and Vancouver — clients just won’t do it. Landscape professionals need to educate the public on proper practices.
When it comes to turf grass, this means watering less and cutting higher. If you keep your lawn at a minimum three-inch height, “you force the roots to go deeper,” and your grass requires less water. If you water every day, the roots don’t need to go looking for water, and get weaker. It’s important to train your grass; otherwise, Beckon cautions: “You burn out your lawn.”
Soil composition is also important. Ensuring plant beds have good compost content and a lot of mulch is a great first step. Mulch acts as a protective layer over soil, preventing moisture loss through evaporation and regulating soil temperature. It conserves a lot of water, especially in the summer.
Stippler said it’s also important to have adequate soil depth; the deeper the soil, the more moisture it holds. The health of plants and soil is at the heart of her water management strategy. She focuses on establishing plants with deep watering in the beginning so they need less water later. “If they have a good watering system they will establish root systems that will be strong enough to withstand more drought later on,” Stippler said, adding it takes two to three years for a plant to be considered established.
She also prescribes “pick[ing] the right plant for the right place” — an idea Beckon also highlighted — or keeping an area’s climatic conditions top of mind when deciding which plant to install. “In some cases, we have areas where there is too much water, and a plant that needs a
lot of water goes into there and it can help with flooding or a large rain event after a drought,” Stippler said.
“Plants have such a value for us. They are the solution, they’re the answer for our environmental problems and for water shortages. I wish [municipalities] would consider how plants would help them, and help us all, by cooling the air, by cleaning the air. The roots soak up water and avoid flooding. All of those problems that the environment causes can be helped by having healthy plants.”
Smart irrigation systems
Stippler also emphasized using automatic irrigation systems that deliver water throughout landscapes exactly where and when water is needed. These systems can activate between three and five a.m., for example, when the water won’t evaporate in the hot sun. She works with professional irrigation companies that use rain sensors and water-conserving nozzles.
Beckon agrees that investing in modern irrigation systems is crucial. She said most clients have “no idea” how much water they’re wasting. A lot of this waste comes from traditional pop-up irrigation, which sprays water on top of plants or grass.
“The first thing I look at on site [is] the irrigation,” she said. “If it was done 20 years ago [and] none of the irrigation has been updated — that’s something I start with.”
Beckon spoke of drip lines: perforated tubing that runs along the ground, next to
your plants, that delivers water straight to their root zone. It’s more direct than popup irrigation, thus saving water. Of course, drip lines don’t look great on turf grass — but there are other solutions for that.
“Smart” irrigation systems have increased in popularity over the past several years. These systems use weather data to adjust watering runtimes automatically, based on climatic conditions. You don’t need to run outside to turn off your sprinkler when it rains; your rain sensor does it for you.
“The controller will adjust the amount of run time in accordance with [...] what the landscape is saying: ‘I need more water’ or ‘I need less water,’” said Steve Hernandez, chair of Landscape Ontario’s Irrigation Sector Group. This saves a lot of water — and money on your water bill — and keeps plants healthy.
Rain sensors can save consumers 30 to 40 per cent of irrigation water in a season, according to Hernandez. With water rates increasing each year, he said buying a rain sensor can save you thousands: “The cost of a rain sensor is, no pun intended, literally a drop in the bucket to what it actually will save from the cost of treated water. It becomes a no-brainer.”
Soil moisture sensing technologies discern what’s reaching below the surface of the soil and send that information to your irrigation system. Your sprinklers won’t turn on when the soil has enough water for the plant’s roots to drink, even if the sun has been beating down all morning.
Investing in watering technologies
Many systems go beyond what Hernandez calls “reactionary” irrigation — adjusting its schedule after the fact of rain — to “planning” or “projection” irrigation. Controllers use forecasted weather data to project how much water a landscape will need in the future and adjust the schedule accordingly.
Wi-Fi-capable controllers that speak to weather stations are more affordable than ever; they’re feasible for residential homes, not just golf courses. You can find one from $100 to $300 dollars, which Hernandez said is about the same as a standard controller.
Hernandez has seen recent advancements in the accuracy of these systems and the applications of all that data. You can see exactly how much water your irrigation system delivered to your landscape and when it will run next — all from your smartphone.
Municipalities and golf courses use central control systems, which monitor the exact use of water across a long list of parks, soccer fields and gardens. If there’s something wrong with a specific system, they can turn it off immediately to avoid wasting precious water.
“The technology is definitely getting smarter and smarter,” Hernandez said. Manufacturers are working on launching Bluetooth battery-operated controllers, which don’t need to be plugged into a wall. You can put a controller in the middle of nowhere and automatically regulate
your irrigation system.
Reclaimed water systems are also becoming more prevalent. Tanks or cisterns buried underground collect rainwater, which is then used to irrigate landscapes in and around a building.
Construction companies are installing these systems in new condo buildings and housing developments, thanks to incentives like LEED certification. Building sustainably saves on utility costs and often comes with tax breaks.
“If we are able to reuse rainwater for irrigating landscapes, we’re not using too much of what we call treated water, or domestic water,” Hernandez said. It costs more money up front to install such a system, but it saves “a lot more money” in the long term.
Hernandez highlighted the importance of learning. Gaining knowledge of best practices — including how to care for different styles of plants, what time of day to water and which irrigation technologies to use — is key to being responsible with water. The Irrigation Sector Group runs programs, seminars and conferences to lead by example.
“We’ve always been a huge advocate for water conservation,” Hernandez said.
“As irrigation contractors, we recognize that, luckily, we live in a region of the world where we have a lot of fresh water. But it also means that we should not, as ambassadors or stewards of the irrigation world, apply irrigation systems that are wasteful. Just because we can afford it, doesn’t mean we should waste it.” LT
Proving herself a winner
Pushing
back against imposter syndrome
BY KARINA SINCLAIR
Imposter syndrome is sneaky. It’s that nagging voice in the back of your mind that can make you doubt your own skills and successes — despite a mounting pile of evidence that says otherwise. So even after attracting high profile clients through her social media feed, winning several consecutive local awards, and becoming the first ever Canadian designated as a Proven Winners Certified Landscape Professional, landscape designer Samantha Ulasy still hears that voice. But now she ignores it.
Let’s back up to the beginning, because Ulasy only launched her business Margaret Valley Landscaping in 2019. After earning a diploma in horticulture at Red River College in Winnipeg, Man., Ulasy moved to Kelowna, B.C. and began working at Bylands, a large and well-regarded garden centre in the Okanagan Valley. Shortly after that, she worked for a landscaping company. “That really ignited my love of gardening and plants, and just creating art within the yard,” Ulasy said. But the experience didn’t allow her the freedom to explore her own ideas.
“When I worked for the other landscape company, I was just doing maintenance as one of the crew members and I didn't really have a lot of say. I knew I had really good ideas that were kind of getting stepped over,” Ulasy explained. “So I started working on the weekends with a few clients that I just picked up through social media, and through that, I was like, ‘I can really do this. If I'm doing a really good job, I should try and do this full-time.’”
And so she did.
On her own
“I made the hard decision to quit my job and begin a landscape company where I really had no prior knowledge of running a business or being my own boss,” Ulasy said. “But it just felt right and I just gave it a shot.”
Margaret Valley Landscaping is now an all-female landscape company, with three full-time employees (and a mini goldendoodle named Cedar who often joins the team on site “to supervise”). “We create, design and install all kinds of landscaping of anything that fits with the client, their home and their vision,” Ulasy said. “We just try and create a beautiful place to go that's outside. We're still fairly new, but we are definitely making a mark in Kelowna.”
Indeed. Under Ulasy’s leadership, the team has racked up an impressive number of awards, including Best Landscaper in Kelowna five years in a row, as well as Best Young Entrepreneur Under 40 for four years, among other local acclaim. That’s pretty impressive for a business that’s only five years old.
What’s most impressive about Ulasy is her genuine connection with the landscape. While giving me on a tour through one of her client’s gardens, her hands never stopped working as our feet crunched along the pea gravel paths. She’d caress a football-sized panicle hydrangea blossom, point out a bee on a zinnia, deadhead spent blooms in a container, snip stray twigs from a spiral topiary and even position fragrant roses for her dog to sniff. As supervisor, Cedar approved.
Ulasy was a bottomless font of knowledge as I asked about the growth habits of hibiscus or the water needs of sedum. As it turned out, nearly all of the plants in this landscape are from Proven Winners, which Ulasy says results from a brand devotion that began while she was in school and continued after she branched out on her own. “We always used Proven Winners plants. They're amazing. I've tried different brands, and Proven Winners always caught my eye,” Ulasy said. “They have the most unique plants. Creations, colour varieties and options are endless, along with a really unique set of plants that a lot of other gardeners don't necessarily use in their gardens. I've always had a dream of working with a big brand that’s as incredible as Proven Winners.”
Taking a chance pays off
On a chilly February day in 2022, Ulasy decided to introduce herself to Proven Winners. “I was like, ‘Let's just email them and see what happens.’” She wrote about her business and her passion for horticulture and hit send. “They emailed me back saying, ‘We'd love to have a meeting with you. Let's set something up.’” Ulasy was introduced to Jeanine Standard, who handles influencer outreach at Proven Winners, and the connection clicked. “We had the same dreams and goals. And we love their plants. We love gardening. It's more than work for us,” Ulasy said. “So that really reminded me that this is the right direction I should be going in.
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You have to believe in it and look at all the things you've accomplished and sit back and go, 'I did that, I created this.'
SAMANTHA ULASY “
“
From then on, I started collecting content of my clients' yards.”
The content gets posted to Instagram (where most of Ulasy’s clients find her) and Facebook. Recipes for compelling container combos, advice on growing in a zone seven climate, landscape before and afters, and shots of smiling staff abound (Cedar included).
Ulasy’s creative hustle paid off. In 2023, Standard urged Ulasy to apply to become a Proven Winners Certified Landscape Professional. This program’s objective is to “provide landscape professionals with a competitive business distinction as a skilled Proven Winners plant expert, develop significant showcase projects and become a regional resource for the Proven Winners brand.” Landscape professionals in the program have demonstrated they are “skilled in the design, installation, maintenance and overall use of Proven Winners plants.” In return, those certified are featured on the Proven Winners website and offered presentation opportunities at garden tours and events, assistance with PR, media placement and business development, plus additional support.
“I'm always one to say yes. So I applied!” Ulasy said, adding the application required in-depth details about her clients’ projects. “Then I got approved, which means I was the first Canadian ever to have this certification. Not only is that exciting, but it's also to a female, which I thought was really cool considering landscaping is a male-dominated industry.”
Having reached her dream of representing her favourite plant brand, Ulasy continues to create content in her landscapes, finding strategic angles to highlight only Proven Winners plants. The global brand then shares her content on its own social media platforms, amplifying Ulasy’s audience. “You have to get really nice content and pictures. The lighting has to be right. The information has to be there,” Ulasy said. “So it is a lot of going home, downloading my pictures, adding information about what it is, what's growing, where it is growing, and what kind of climates it is suited for. It's a lot of work, but I really enjoy it, and I do it anyway.”
Proven Winners Certified Landscape Professionals are also required to attend
sponsored or educational events in order to maintain designation each year. Since these take place in the U.S., Ulasy attends most virtually. “There’s a vast selection of classes that you can choose to attend. And it's so fun, like, it's so fun,” Ulasy said. “You learn so many things and you also get to meet people online. I follow a lot of landscape influencers, like Garden Answer’s Laura [LeBoutillier] and Skye Hamilton, and they're all in the States. They're super well known, and I'm just on a Zoom with them! It's really great to connect with everyone.”
Since announcing her certification, Ulasy has inspired other Canadian landscapers to consider applying to the program, such as Krista Irving, owner of Miss Muskoka Landscapes in Bracebridge, Ont. “I have a lot of landscapers on my Instagram, also female-owned businesses, and we keep in contact. Krista and I were chatting on Instagram, and she said, ‘I'd like to apply.’ And I said, ‘You should.’ So I guided her on where to go, how to apply. Then it was announced that she's the second Canadian with certification.”
The best perk
Another perk of the certification is early access to new plants. “Proven Winners will send me trial plants that were newly released or are coming out next year. And they give them to me so I can try them in my gardens. That's been amazing because I get my hands on the first of the first and see how it grows,” Ulasy said. This gives her the chance to give Proven Winners feedback on how well new plants thrive in the semi-arid climate of the Okanagan Valley, while also designing unique looks for her clients.
“I want people to say, “That yard looks like it has the ‘Sam touch,’” Ulasy said, describing that look to be whimsical and more than just random pretty plants. “I'm hoping to really create some special places for people to enjoy.”
As her success continues, Ulasy wants to lean into her creative side. “I have so many ideas. I'm constantly thinking of the next thing, the next project. For the next five years, I'd really like to focus more on designing. Designing is what gets me up every day. I love it, so I'm thinking of letting go of regular maintenance to focus on designs, construction and putting it all
together,” Ulasy said. “I still need to get my hands dirty. I cannot not do that. So we'll still do the installations of all the gardens, the finishings and maybe spring and fall cleanups. But I wish I had a little bit more time to do that creative aspect, so I'm really hoping I can buckle down next year.”
And even with all her success and recognition from a major brand, doubt finds a way to creep back in. “It feels like imposter syndrome sometimes,” Ulasy admitted. “I don't know how to explain it. It's like you know you're doing a lot, but as a business owner I never feel like I'm doing enough. I work every night till the wee hours in the evening, and then I'm up at five to go to work. And I still don't feel like I have done enough.”
When asked what it would take to banish that doubt, Ulasy was reflective and optimistic. “This year has been a very mindful year for me, so I think I'm there. I feel like I've enjoyed the little moments in the quiet times in the garden, and my own thoughts and my successes just come to light,” she said. “But that's taken six years of grinding away to really get to that point. I do it because I love it, not for awards and recognition. It's just a little bit trickier in my head to really be like, ‘You deserve this, it’s okay to enjoy these moments.’”
Although the imposter syndrome has been (mostly) banished, Ulasy refuses to rest on her laurels and still tries to squeeze more into her day. “That's who I am. I'm a busybody. I can't sit still. I like to create and design and I literally live at the garden centres,” Ulasy laughed. “I don't like talking about myself because I try to be very humble. Even after we've won Best of Kelowna for five years in a row, I still get that feeling of, ‘Oh, me?’ But you have to believe in it and look at all the things you've accomplished and sit back and go, “I did that, I created this.’ So it's a little bit of a mind game, but I think that's just life as a business owner.” LT
Take a tour of Samantha Ulasy’s Tuscan-inspired garden in the latest video of the Down the Garden Path series at youtu.be/LaQIfOODbWM
Be informed, be aware and stay
safe ZOONOTIC DISEASES IN CANADA
BY J LYNN FRASER
In urban Canada we tend to forget that ordinary animals, birds and the landscape itself can be harmful if certain conditions occur. One such harm is found in zoonotic diseases. Zoonosis is “any disease or infection that is naturally transmissible from vertebrate animals to humans” (WHO, 2020).
Several zoonotic diseases that cause illness in landscapers and horticulturalists are present in Canada.
BIRD FLU / AVIAN INFLUENZA A / H5N1
Bird flu can spread between birds, as well as between birds and mammals — including humans. Wild aquatic birds can carry bird flu and pass it on to domestic birds like chickens, ducks and turkeys. As of August 2024, five Canadian provinces had reported incidences of bird flu, with no human infections. In the U.S., as of April 2024, there have been 13 reports of human infections. Measures to prevent bird flu include avoiding sick birds that have symptoms such as coughing and sneezing as well as lacking energy or movement. Also avoid animals lacking energy and showing neurological signs. Human infections are rare and symptoms may be mild, such as coughing and shortness of breath. It is important to be aware of the presence of backyard poultry and pets that may have been exposed to infected birds. A severe infection can include pneumonia and fevers — even death. Washing hands with soap and water, and avoiding touching one’s nose, eyes and mouth is critical. Wearing a good fitting N95 respirator or mask is advised.
LYME DISEASE AND BABESIOSIS
Lyme disease is found in every province. Infected blacklegged (deer) ticks transmit the disease through their bite after latching on for 24 hours, then transmitting the bacteria, which carries Lyme disease, to people and pets. If Lyme disease has been transmitted a rash will appear within three to 30 days in a bull’s eye
pattern. Along with the rash, Infection Prevention and Control Canada (IPAC) says fever, chills, fatigue, body aches and a headache may occur. In the weeks that follow, joint pain, nausea and vomiting, diffuse rash and neurological problems, as well as heart problems, eye inflammation, liver inflammation (hepatitis) and severe fatigue may develop.
Staying out of areas known to have ticks in the spring and fall is a preventative measure. Ticks are often found in moist, shaded environments — especially leafy wooded areas and overgrown grassy habitats.
Babesiosis is also transmitted by blacklegged ticks in Canada, as is Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Powassan virus. According to Public Health Ontario, symptoms of a Babesiosis infection include fever, chills, sweats, headache, body aches, loss of appetite, nausea and fatigue. Infection may also produce hemolytic anemia, with symptoms including fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, thrombocytopenia and renal failure.
MOSQUITO-BORNE DISEASES (MBDS)
Some diseases need “reservoir hosts” to be passed on to humans, says the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS). West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), seen recently in Massachusetts, are found in wild birds. Deer spread Jamestown Canyon virus. Squirrels, chipmunks, hares, rabbits and rodents spread Snowshoe hare virus. St. Louis encephalitis is found in wild birds, domestic fowl and bats.
People infected by MBDs do not always show symptoms. However, symptoms may appear after several days to two weeks and may include fever, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting and rashes.
The CCOHS also states that those with serious manifestations of MBDs will “develop inflammation of the brain, spinal cord or the membranes that protect the brain and spinal cord (conditions called encephalitis, myelitis and meningitis).”
Dr. Isaac Bogoch, associate professor at the University of Toronto’s Department of Medicine and an infectious diseases specialist and general internist at the Toronto General Hospital, advises landscapers and horticulturalists to be aware that “fresh and free standing water, of which Canada has a lot of, are insect breeding grounds.” Awareness of grass, weeds, wooded and shaded areas is also wise. Caution should be shown when outdoors between May and September, especially at dusk or dawn, and when around animals that could carry MBDs.
Dr. Lynora Saxinger, professor in the University of Alberta’s Division of Infectious Diseases, advises using a repellent like Icaridin (Picaridin) or DEET to help against tick- and mosquitoborne diseases. She suggests wearing light coloured clothing, which makes it easier to spot ticks, and covering the ankle area on pants by tucking them into socks. “There is also pre-treated travel clothing available,” says Saxinger. Other measures include performing daily full body checks and remembering to shower or bathe within two hours of being in forested or long grass areas.
In general, being aware of the environment in which you work is important. Contact with an infected animal may be direct, such as through animal saliva, blood, urine or feces, or indirect, through exposure to contaminated surfaces or objects, including animal habitats, contaminated air or receiving a scratch from an infected animal. It also includes consuming food or water contaminated by animals.
RABIES
A bite from a rabid animal to a human is rare in Canada, but the consequences are fatal. In Canada, bats, skunks, raccoons and foxes are most likely to transmit rabies. According to the Government of Canada, 26 people have died in the country due to rabies since 1924. In September 2024, an Ontario resident was confirmed to have been bitten by a bat and now has rabies. A friendly animal may be an infected one. To prevent being bitten, be aware of animals showing excessive salivation, abnormal behaviour, weakness and clumsiness.
THE FUTURE
Climate change is making Canada more hospitable to ticks and mosquitoes, enabling them to extend their range. As a result, Canadians are exposed to tick- and mosquito-borne diseases that were not a concern in the past, such as St. Louis encephalitis, Rift Valley fever, Japanese encephalitis, and La Crosse, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses.
Dr. Bogoch comments that due to climate change, some diseases found in Central and South America and in the southern U.S. are now travelling northward. Dr. Saxinger notes that southern Canada will experience these changes and local public health notices are a good way to stay informed. LT
Sponge city concept helps manage stormwater runoff
BY NADINA GALLE
IN RECENT YEARS, city planners, landscape architects and green professionals have started to focus on designing urban spaces that work with nature instead of fighting against it.
A prime example of this approach is the "sponge city" concept, which was popularized by Chinese landscape architect Kongjian Yu, who won the 2023 Oberlander Prize for his innovative designs. This concept, rooted in ancient Chinese wisdom, aims to transform how cities handle floods by using "nature-based solutions." These solutions include: green spaces, green roofs, permeable pavements, constructed wetlands, rainwater harvesting and sustainable urban drainage systems like infiltration trenches, retention ponds and park-like reservoirs.
The sponge city design focuses on soaking up, storing and reusing rainwater, unlike traditional city planning, which relies on hard surfaces and sewer systems for flood control. This method reduces flooding and makes cities more resilient and sustainable.
Most sponge city practices originated in Asia, driven by the need to address violent monsoons, tropical storms and severe floods. However, the increasing frequency of extreme weather events worldwide highlights the need for sponge city principles everywhere. Additionally, many sponge city designs have not yet incorporated advanced technologies such as sensors, data analytics and algorithms that could enhance real-time flood management.
I discovered a notable example closer to home. This example not only embodies sponge city principles but also integrates technology to ensure adaptability in unpredictable conditions. In New York City, I met Adrian Benepe, who introduced me to
the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
Benepe has long championed urban green spaces. His career began as a Central Park ranger and he ultimately climbed the ranks to become New York City’s parks commissioner, where he led a major greening initiative in the early 2000s under Mayor Bloomberg. He then advanced the 10-Minute Walk Program at the Trust for Public Land, aiming to ensure all citizens have quality green spaces within walking distance.
Benepe embraced a new challenge in September 2020 as president and CEO of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Founded in 1910, this 52-acre garden next to Prospect Park features over 14,000 plants and attracts nearly one million visitors annually.
Benepe’s passion for the role extended beyond maintaining this urban oasis. He envisioned parks and gardens as blueprints for managing stormwater runoff through innovative water absorption techniques. With New York City facing stronger storms each year and resulting floods devastating neighbourhoods as recently as 2023, these techniques are more crucial than ever. Benepe was driven by the challenge of maintaining century-old botanical collections while transforming them into sponges that
could help protect his neighbours’ homes.
Benepe’s awareness of the city's need for effective water absorption grew two months after he retired from the Parks Department, when Hurricane Sandy struck New York City. The storm caused up to $19 billion in damages, overwhelming the city’s centuriesold combined sewer system with five billion gallons of diluted sewage. This phenomenon, known as a combined sewer overflow (CSO), had severe consequences: buildings were destroyed, subway tracks and stations needed major redevelopment, basements experienced backups and dangerous bacteria levels in the water spiked.
This disaster made it clear to Benepe that Hurricane Sandy was only a preview of what climate change could bring. He felt compelled to find solutions to keep more water out of New York’s antiquated sewers during heavy rainfall, and his new position at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden provided the perfect opportunity.
On a wood-chipped path in the Japaneseinfluenced section of the garden, Benepe introduces me to his innovative solution. At first glance, it appears to be a picturesque wetland with a meandering path, a babbling brook and a tranquil pond surrounded by resilient plants thriving at the water’s edge.
the innovative Smart Water Garden Pond at
Smart Water Garden Pond in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
He points out that this serene setting is, in fact, the Smart Water Garden Pond. Beneath the surface lies a sophisticated valve that continuously monitors weather conditions in real time. This system ensures that the water depth reaches two to three feet before triggering the valve to gradually release water throughout the garden. Anticipating significant rainfall, the valves release the necessary amount of water days in advance, maintaining steady water levels even during heavy storms.
This optimized process not only helps reduce Brooklyn's flooding by diverting 52 acres of discharge from the city's sewage system but also serves as a reservoir to sustain the garden’s thousands of plants during summer heat. They estimate the pond has reduced the garden’s outdoor freshwater consumption by nearly 96 per cent.
Benepe recalls how, in 2021, the pond faced its ultimate test. Heavy rain and the threat of flooding led many to believe that the pond should be drained in anticipation, given the strain already placed on New York’s sewage system. However, the weather-prediction algorithms advised against opening the valve. In the worst moments of the storm, Benepe admitted he questioned his decision to involve himself in the park’s drainage system.
A few days later, as the rain arrived, the pond came within inches of overflowing. But once the storm passed, the pond gradually drained its excess water over the following days. The surplus not absorbed by the garden was directed into a municipal sewage system that had not overflowed. The algorithm's decision proved to be the right one.
Like many cities, New York faces hefty fines from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for violating the Clean Water Act whenever CSOs occur. To mitigate costs and environmental impact, the city has long invested in green infrastructure to capture stormwater runoff before it enters the sewer system. While this approach began before Benepe’s tenure, it was significantly enhanced during his time when Mayor Bloomberg established a $1.6 billion fund to further intercept stormwater runoff, some of which was used to develop the Smart Water Garden Pond.
Benepe estimates that the pond keeps five million gallons of water out of the sewer each year. In terms of city-wide stormwater runoff, the pond is a drop in the bucket — just a few million gallons compared to the five billion the city reckoned with during
Sandy. But on a hyper-local level, its effects are significant. Since its construction, nearby streets and homes have experienced reduced flood risks, providing residents with greater peace of mind.
Imagine if every street had a Smart Water Garden Pond, expertly managing water levels at precisely the right times. Such a transformation could turn the tide on flooding, offering a lifeline to communities, safeguarding properties and nurturing local ecosystems. LT
DR. NADINA GALLE spotlights Internet of Nature (IoN) technologies and practitioners making a difference in how we can optimize soil health, manage urban forests, create liveable cities, and everything in between. To learn more about the IoN and to catch episodes of the Internet of Nature Podcast, visit nadinagalle.com.
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Focus on service for retail success
BY ART VANDEN ENDEN
IN THIS ISSUE, I would like to focus on how the quality of service your customers receive can affect your retail business. Retail is a tough business to be in. It can be an even tougher business to thrive in. To thrive, it is important to know what your most valuable customers like about your business. It is equally important to know the type of customers that are attracted to your business. I am referring to their preferences and expectations. Does your business attract experienced gardeners? Are many of your customers looking for new and unique plants and products? Are your customers price sensitive? Or are they new to gardening and relying on your support and guidance to help them navigate purchases?
A shift in service strategy
A large portion of independent garden centres (IGCs) in Canada have long promoted their businesses as offering “high service” and their staff as experts with deep knowledge and experience. Then suddenly, that strategy had to change. The pandemic and few years since have been tough on many IGCs, as we are still thinking about the heavy demand for garden products brought on by lockdowns and a rekindled interest in plant parenthood. This truly unique time was perhaps the only time in recent memory where a sustained demand outweighed supply. Business strategy was turned upside down. Social distancing became the requirement to keep staff and customers safe, and retail businesses adapted
to a self-serve environment. Close face-to-face interactions were not permitted for all of the important reasons. Garden centres that relied on and promoted service as a business strength were required to shift away from the high service business model that had been a core part of their strategy.
These were truly scary and unique times; however, all sectors of horticulture experienced a boom in business like nothing that had ever been seen before. With COVID-19 now a distant memory, many of the traditional challenges have returned to operators of IGCs. Managing the complexities of purchasing, marketing, staffing and operations now all require close pragmatic attention.
The first (simple) step in service
I have observed that retailers in general are struggling with the practice of service. I wonder how many businesses realize their service levels have changed. I cannot count how many times I have walked into a garden centre and not been greeted upon entering. I could spend several minutes shopping, walking, looking at products and while I can see staff around, there seems to be no effort to engage with customers. I suggest all business owners and managers look at their own businesses and reevaluate the level of service their customers are experiencing.
It is a well-known fact that welcoming customers and making them feel appreciated has a positive impact on how much money they spend. Better service leads to higher sales,
and I’m not talking about the process of selling products and solutions. Simply making customers feel welcome by proactively offering assistance is an easy action that many floor staff members struggle with these days. This change is affecting all retail business sectors.
If you are one of the few who are doing a good job on servicing your customers, then congratulations! Great service seems to be rare these days. Great service means caring about and appreciating your customers who visit you in person, over the phone and even online. But how can you tell if you’re giving great service?
Hire a friend or a professional company to evaluate the level of service your customers are receiving. Mystery shoppers provide invaluable insight into the in-store experience. Ask the mystery shoppers to record a few simple statistics: How long does it take for an employee to greet them or other customers? Do employees acknowledge their presence as they walk through the store? Do they respond to questions in a friendly tone? If the level of service is not being met, you now know what areas need to be addressed. This becomes an opportunity to gather your team and share results without shaming individuals. If you receive positive feedback from the mystery shoppers, please share it with your team. Celebrate the behaviours you are wanting, but privately coach the areas that need improvement.
First service, then sales
When you have fostered a great service environment, it becomes easier to maintain. Once you have achieved a solid base, you will be ready to take it to the next level and provide the right type of training to help staff sell the best complete products, solutions and services. The challenges of retail will always be there; however, constantly evaluating, measuring and planning for improvement, along with implementing the plans, will lead to much better overall results. I would love to see your business challenge itself to provide the best service possible. This is one of the best reasons why customers are attracted to independent garden centres. If you’d like to take a self-assessment survey to evaluate your business, please send me an email at artvangarden@gmail.com. I have a short, simple but concise survey I would be happy to share. LT
ART VANDEN ENDEN
Art loved every minute of his 44-year garden centre career with Weall and Cullen and Sheridan Nurseries. In retirement, Art enjoys giving back to the profession with Landscape Ontario’s Garden Centre Sector Group and sharing his experience with Landscape Trades readers in the Art of Gardening column.
Four common legal mistakes landscape companies can't afford to make
BY LAI-KING HUM
EVERY SEASON in the landscaping industry brings new challenges and opportunities. The last thing any business owner wants is to be blindsided by legal troubles. Navigating employment law in the landscaping industry requires careful attention to detail and proactive management. To avoid legal disputes and ensure a compliant workplace, landscaping employers should steer clear of common errors such as failing to maintain proper contracts, ignoring ESA requirements, neglecting risks of heat stress and mishandling termination and layoffs.
Not having or updating written employment contracts
While there is no legal requirement for written employment contracts, they are crucial for preventing disputes and safeguarding employer interests. In the landscaping industry, where seasonal work, variable job conditions and adjustment of job duties are common, having these elements in a contract can effectively prevent constructive dismissal claims. Additionally, contracts should include terms such as: temporary layoff rights, resignation notice periods, termination pay and confidentiality agreements. Without these, employers might find themselves embroiled in disputes, particularly regarding wrongful dismissal.
Wrongful dismissal is one of the most litigated disputes in employment law, and it is usually caused by not having a written contract with an enforceable termination clause which can limit the termination costs to the minimum requirements under the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA). Without a properly drafted contract, many employers are often surprised by the significant amount of termination pay they owe to an employee under common law and then frustrated to learn the common law does
not provide a simple mathematical formula to ensure certainty in advance. Any uncertainty could be avoided by having a written contract with an enforceable termination clause.
Not complying with the ESA
Landscaping employers must adhere to the ESA, which sets out minimum standards for wages, overtime pay and other entitlements. Failure to comply can be costly and result in serious legal consequences. For instance, if a landscaping business pays its workers below the minimum wage, it may face penalties, fines or even prosecution. After receiving a demand letter and a handful of emails, an employer paid $60,000 for unpaid overtime. Why? Overtime claims have no time limit.
Under the ESA, while “landscaping gardeners” do not benefit from certain entitlements such as daily (eight hours) or weekly (48 hours) limits on hours of work, overtime pay and public holidays or public holiday pay, landscaping employers may violate the ESA by misclassifying an employee as a landscaping gardener. For example, an employer might incorrectly label an employee who installs lighting systems for gardens as a “gardener” to avoid paying overtime. However, this employee is not a gardener and is entitled to overtime pay under the ESA. Consequently, the employer unknowingly violates the ESA. Landscaping employers should understand that a gardener is an individual who maintains or alters land and gardens for aesthetic purposes. Any duties beyond this scope do not fall under gardening.
The ESA’s requirements are strict, and landscaping employers need to ensure their contracts and practices align with these standards to avoid costly disputes.
Failing to address heat stress
The physical demands of landscaping work, combined with rising temperatures, make heat stress a critical issue in the industry.
The Ontario government has proposed a new regulation addressing heat stress under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) that has passed the consultation stage. This new regulation introduces heat stress exposure limits and mandates employers to implement control measures based on a “hierarchy of controls.” It also requires employers to educate workers about recognizing heat-related illness symptoms and protective measures.
Although the new regulation has yet to be implemented, landscaping employers still have a general duty under s. 25(2)(h) of the OHSA to protect workers from hazardous thermal conditions. This includes developing policies, providing training and ensuring adequate hydration and breaks during hot weather. With the potential for new regulation on the horizon, landscaping companies should be proactive in mitigating heat stress risks.
Not properly managing termination and layoffs
In the landscaping industry, seasonal work and fluctuating demand can lead to layoffs or terminations. However, employers must handle these situations carefully to avoid legal repercussions. Without a clear temporary layoff clause in employment contracts, employers risk claims of constructive dismissal. The case of Michalski v. Cima Canada Inc. illustrates how costly this can be, with the employer ordered to pay over $33,000 in damages for a wrongful layoff. Additionally, terminating an employee for cause without justification can result in significant penalties, as demonstrated in Galea v. Wal-Mart Canada Corp., where the employer faced $750,000 in damages for wrongful dismissal and bad-faith termination. LT
LAI-KING HUM is senior partner and founder of Hum Law in Toronto, Ont., specializing in employment law, human rights, professional regulation, mediation and litigation. Learn more at thehumlawfirm.ca.
BY IAIN WILSON
Great garden design starts from the ground up
ONE OF THE KEY PHILOSOPHIES
driving a great landscape design is to curate a space that balances both function and aesthetic with place and purpose. A thorough site evaluation and analysis can help to identify these considerations and dictate how we are going to move forward with the design. A number of questions should be kept front of mind when entering a site, including what the current soil and ground structure is like. Will there be a need for amendments? How are you going to manage the space during the build, especially if the client is in residence? What plant material will you keep and what needs to be installed? Is the plant material available locally or do you have to source interprovincially or internationally? And how will the landscape be maintained once installed?
In our fast-paced world, clients are looking for low maintenance spaces. As designers, there are specific actions we can take to ensure a landscape meets their needs, adheres to provincial policies (such as water restrictions), helps combat climate change, increases pollinator numbers and doesn’t require a lot of attention. It is essential we design with full understanding of the ground plane, as not only is the Earth itself the anchor for plant material, but it is also their lifeline.
In their book Planting in a Post-Wild World: Designing Plant Communities for Resilient Landscapes, Thomas Rainer and Claudia West highlight the essential need to understand the geology and soil composition to be able to select the correct plants, and ensuring stable site conditions is the only way to achieve stable plantings. A planting surrounded by concrete, for example, that has had acidic soil amendments will bring the pH down for a time, but run-off from the concrete surface can raise it again. So without proper and constant management, certain plants won’t thrive. Therefore, choosing plants that will
thrive in a specific environment lowers the need for constant oversight. Whilst we can create microclimates and specific soil profiles, it is argued that the best practice is to not introduce massive amounts of nutrient-rich compost or soils, but to add smaller amounts of organic soil conditioner so site conditions aren’t altered too much in order to minimize stress on younger plants as they adapt.
Choosing the right plant for the right place is one element of good design, but the ongoing physical management of a landscape also needs to be considered. A designer may want to install a Picassoesque imprint on a landscape — colourful, abstract and angular — but the physical maintenance and management of that landscape comes with its own challenges. Sharp points create issues with mowing of lawns, hard surfaces gather soil or aggregates, access to garden beds for weeding and general maintenance cause erosion, compaction or damage to plants. All of which adds unnecessary time, cost and increased inputs, such as fuel.
Ensuring new plants establish and survive their first season really depends on having a strong design and grounds management plan; from planting through pruning or cutting back, to providing appropriate protection in the depths of winter. Whether a design adheres to a Piet Oudolf-inspired all-season perspective, such as showcasing plants that have foliage and flower interest from spring to fall and adds structural interest through their decline and death over winter, or a more traditional three-season perspective, where evergreens are called on for winter interest, there is a greater chance of survival when plant communities are created in the planting plan. Like humans, plants thrive when they’re in communities. They draw on similar nutrients, sunlight and care, meaning our intervention is reduced and management becomes easier.
In Planting A New Perspective, Piet Oudolf and Noel Kingsbury highlight that while
monoculture block planting is dated, blending a series of blocks planted in elongated drifts, interspersed with each other helps to increase pollination, create great visual and textural impact, but most importantly, provides protection to plants that have finished performing and fall dormant. Managing a new planting this way also increases the survival rate of new plants.
To further ensure the longevity of the planting, a strong design states installation requirements for planting size and depth. Not to take away from the skill of our industry, but too often budgets don’t allow enough time to install plant material properly. If we approach planting the way Matthew Wilson showcased in his Dry Garden at RHS Garden Hyde Hall — by breaking up the earth around the planting to three times the size of the pot — we create a “well” that allows roots systems to reach out for moisture and nutrients, reducing any existing compaction that allows plants to thrive in the long term.
Ground management and care of new plants forms the backbone of design, installation and ongoing care. If considered as part of the initial design phase the result is a landscape that establishes and shapes itself quicker, becomes more robust to the pressures of climate change and water restrictions, and reduces inputs and maintenance time — ultimately allowing clients more time to enjoy their outdoor space. LT
IAIN WILSON is the owner of ISW Landscapes in Langley, B.C., a design firm dedicated to creating bespoke spaces using sustainable design principles.
INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIPS BLOSSOM ON AT IGCA 2024 IN QUEBEC
BY ANNE KADWELL, CNLA – BLUE BUS CAPTAIN
Smiles, laughter and teamwork filled the air as garden retail business owners from 19 countries came together for an unforgettable week of connection and growth at the International Garden Centre Congress (IGCA), which took place Aug. 25-31. Our tour bus bustled with constant discussions and the sharing of ideas and insights throughout the event.
The group of 175 international delegates enjoyed five days of travelling in and around Québec City and Montreal, to visit 11 exceptional garden centres, with each location turning the visit into an extravagant event or a memorable competition between bus groups, such as a ball hockey
CNLANEWS
tournament at Jardin Dion, or a scavenger hunt at Jardin2m.
Delegates in our group also experienced exquisite restaurants, with a major highlight taking place on the St. Lawrence River where we enjoyed dinner on a boat followed by a dance party on the deck. A gala on Aug. 30 had the awesome band, Sonic 5, playing a range of ballads from various musical genres, and who kept being hauled back on stage for encore after encore. The entire group wasn’t yet ready to accept the conclusion of this incredible event.
Thank you to all the delegates, sponsors, retail garden centre hosts, the IGCA board, bus captains and IGCA Congress event organizers. Together, we made this an outstanding event that celebrated excellence in Canadian and Québécois garden retail. I’m already counting down the days for another exciting adventure at the IGCA Congress scheduled to take place Oct. 19-25, 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa.
Photos and videos from this incredible, week-long Québécois adventure can be found on the IGCA Facebook page at facebook.com/igca2024canada.
GREEN CHARITIES PLANT TREES IN HALIFAX PARK
The Green Cities Foundation (GCF) teamed up with Hope Blooms on Aug. 8 for a special Community Planting Day at Uniacke Square at Murray Warrington Park in Halifax, N.S.
The large group of about 100 volunteers planted 20 trees to create more shaded areas around the campus of Hope Blooms, which is a Halifax-based social enterprise empowering youth through urban gardening, food production and entrepreneurship. It fosters community development, providing fresh produce and opportunities while promoting sustainability and social justice.
“We always love collaborating and finding new ways to make our community better — just like this, planting trees, you can’t beat that,” said Kolade Kolawole-Boboye, manager of social business and innovation at Hope Blooms. “A lot of blue shirts appeared, and we got straight to work.”
GCF director David Thompson said events like these are perfect examples of what the foundation was set up to support. “I think I worked with about 15 or 20 different kids shovelling dirt and planting trees. It was just a lot of fun,” Thompson said. “Planting these trees contributes to the green spaces that are in this part of the city, supports a wonderful community organization and fits right in the Green Cities Foundation’s sweet spot.”
BRANCHING OUT
The event concluded with the planting of a red oak tree to memorialize Peggy Godfrey, who was a pioneer of Landscape Nova Scotia. The Godfrey family owns several garden centres and have always been exceptional with engaging their community. Peggy was a regular at the International Garden Centres Association’s annual Congress. She passed away at the 2023 Congress in Italy. She was happy to see all her grandkids in attendance, to carry on her legacy of involvement with elevating the garden centre community across the world.
The Godfrey family chose to plant a red oak to honour Peggy because it’s native to Nova Scotia “like my mother,” said Peggy’s son, Robin Godfrey. Godfrey added that a red oak “attracts a lot of insects, which doesn’t damage the tree, and because of that it attracts a lot of birds. It is a strong tree and creates a lot of habitat.”
Speaking to the nearly 100 volunteers, Godfrey thanked everyone for participating in the community planting. “I really appreciate it, my family appreciates it, and I’m glad you are all here to take part in this.”
Thank you to the following companies that supported this project: Atlantic Gardens, Lakeland Plant World, Maritime Landscape Services, Nature's Reflections Landscaping, The Greene Hallway, Tidal Tractor and Tytan Glove and Safety. Additional thanks to RBC Insurance for their support of the #GreenMyCity program in communities across Canada.
COMPACT TRACK LOADER
ASV introduces the new generation RT-65 Posi-Track loader, now powered by Yanmar. The compact track loader is redesigned in every facet and brings numerous productivity, ease-of-use and performance benefits, especially with the inclusion of a Yanmar engine. This midsize machine features a highly efficient cooling system and optimized hydraulics that allow it to operate at 100 per cent load, 100 per cent of the time up to 47 C.
ASV | asvi.com
RIDING MOWER
Craftsman introduces its new T1500 gas riding lawn mower. Loaded with key features, including an ergonomic high-back seat, 12 different cutting positions and a hitch for small trailers (sold separately), the T1500 tackles large lawns and challenging terrain with ease.
Craftsman | craftsman.ca
COMPACT TRACK LOADER
Yanmar Compact Equipment launches the TL75VS as part of its new line of compact track loaders. The vertical-lift unit boosts productivity in at-height work and truck loading applications, featuring a high lift height and rated operating capacity. The machine features Yanmar’s signature reliability and top-of-the-line performance, ease of use and efficiency.
Yanmar Compact Equipment yanmarce.com
NEWPRODUCTS
UTILITY TRACTOR
Kioti Tractor announces the addition of the next-generation RX40 Series utility tractor. A standout feature is its spacious five-pillar cab, designed to prioritize operator comfort and convenience. Inside the cab, operators will enjoy more visibility, ample head- and legroom, and a deluxe air-ride suspension seat to minimize fatigue during extended use. The cab is also outfitted with climate control for year-round comfort and productivity, and an optional instructor seat for easy training.
Kioti | kioti.com
CASE has expanded its EV toolbox with the commercial release of its 580EV, the industry’s first electric backhoe loader. The 580EV offers crews zero-emissions, low-noise solutions for a wide range of unique jobsite demands — from overnight construction, to work in urban centres or other close-quarter environments where noise and emissions must be kept to a minimum.
Case Construction Equipment | casece.com/en-ca
FLEET TELEMATICS
Bobcat Company introduces a new Remote Engine Disable/Enable feature that allows users to remotely enable or disable their machine’s engine through the Owner Portal or Machine IQ app. The app allows owners to monitor the health of their Bobcat machine and remotely track information that enhances maintenance, security and performance. Operators can also shut down their machine with a few clicks, deterring theft and aiding in quick machine recovery.
Bobcat | bobcat.com
ELECTRIC BACKHOE
HYDRAULIC-WING PUSHER PLOW
The Pile Driver XL Hydraulic-Wing Pusher Plow from Western Products is available in five different widths, and features hydraulic, independent wings that provide 180-degree variable wing placement. With such versatility, this pusher plow can scoop and stack snow, and manoeuvre curbs and wide-open spaces alike. The independent two-foot sections of the cutting edge and the three-foot wing sections raise, oscillate and trip to adjust to surface contours and obstacles.
Western Products | westernplows.com
LIGHTWEIGHT SNOWPLOWS
Hilltip now offers its line of SnowStriker snowplows in North America. This includes straight blade and v-plow models for half-ton pickups, SUVs, UTVs, tractors and loaders. SnowStriker plows feature a curved, powder-coated snow blade made of high-strength steel, making them durable, yet lightweight. Hilltip’s Quick Hitch mounts allow for easy on/ off connections.
Hilltip | hilltipna.com
POLY HOPPER SPREADER
The Renegade Poly Hopper Spreader features an extended chute design that promotes better material flow and reduces leakage. Its interlocking lid keeps moisture out of the hopper to prevent clumping. Available in 1.5 and 2.2 cu. yd. sizes, the Renegade comes with the choice of a Helixx shaftless auger delivery system for precise rock salt application or a pintle chain material delivery system for heavy materials like sand and salt/sand mix.
SnowEx Products | snowexproducts.com
On the hunt for superior seeds
JOHN FOLKERTS has been working in horticulture for over five decades, with a 40-year focus on growing native plants. A founder of Linnaea Nurseries — a wholesale plant nursery in Langley, B.C. — Folkerts is also a passionate seed collector, always on the lookout for particularly hardy specimens of native plants thriving in unusual places. This allows him to produce a variety of plants uncommonly seen in niche microclimates.
Describe an average seed collecting day. Recently, I was in Kelowna, Shuswap, Lillooet and Lytton, B.C., where I did a loop around and put on 1,400 kilometers that day. I started at five in the morning and got home at 10 at night. I collected in the Shuswap area, Kelowna, on top of the Coquihalla Highway — just different areas. I came home with about 14 or 15 different species of plants because there were other things ripe for collecting as well, even though the Oregon grape was my main target. You often come home with more than you initially planned for, but you don’t always know what that will be.
What kind of record-keeping is involved with seed hunting? If I showed you my files where I keep all my information, there would be a "wow" factor. The detail of information that
I keep on everything that I collect — I'm amazed myself. When you go into the forest or down some less-traveled road off the highways, you think, "I may never come here again. Or if I do come here again in a year or two, how will I ever find the spot?” So I count out exactly how many steps north, south, east and west this was from the road and exactly how many kilometers off the highway. So, the detail of the information I keep is rather incredible and meticulous.
Why do you save seed from a particular plant in a particular place? We do a lot of cone collecting from evergreens. Let’s take a Douglas fir tree. It’s all over the West Coast, but there's also Douglas fir in the Kelowna area [in the interior of B.C.]. The seeds we process from cones collected off the trees on the West Coast won't grow in Kelowna.
Genetically, the seed is suited to the geo-climatic zone of the West Coast, so it’s only going to grow on the West Coast. If you collect seeds from cones in Kelowna, they’ll grow on the West Coast because the West Coast is not as cold as the interior. So, we often try to collect seeds from climatic zones that are as hardy as where we are, or from a zone or two that's even hardier. That way, when we grow them in the nursery, we know they’re going to survive.
But if I collected some Douglas fir seed from trees here on the West Coast and sold that seed to a nursery in Kelowna, they would have a seed crop failure after the first year because everything would die.
It's one of the things that drives me — the geo-climatic zone of the seed is very important to me. When I sell plants into the prairie provinces, I want to make sure that the
seed we collect for these plants was found in the prairie provinces, so we know it's prairie-hardy and not from the West Coast.
When customers buy plants from us, they know that what they bought from us will work for their area because we took the seed collecting seriously.
What are some of your most successful plants found in unusual places?
Douglas fir is common on the West Coast and in the interior of the province, but that’s generally as far as it goes. However, a stand of Douglas firs was found in a gully in Calgary. About 25 years ago, a nurseryman from Calgary came to see me with a bag full of cones he had collected from these trees. We processed the seeds from those cones, grew the seedlings and planted all 2,000 of them back in Calgary. Now, there's a stand of Douglas firs in Calgary that we go to every year in the first week of September to collect more cones. We’re growing thousands of Douglas firs that are prairie-hardy.
That’s one of the things that keeps me going — finding unique things like this. We also found a few Norway spruce trees in Alberta that are mature and have cones. Norway spruce generally isn’t hardy for the prairies, but we collect those cones, process them and grow the seedlings so that we have prairie-hardy Norway spruce at our nursery as well.
It’s not just about the immediate sale. It’s about long-term success and making sure that our customers are happy with the plants they’ve purchased and that those plants thrive in their specific conditions. LT
