Landscape Alberta does not assume responsibility for and does not endorse the contents of any advertisements herein. All representations or warranties made are those of the advertiser and not the publication. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Landscape Alberta or its members. Material may not be reprinted from this magazine without the consent of Landscape Alberta.
ISSN No: 1929-7114 (print)
ISSN N0: 1929-7122 (online)
Landscape Alberta Board of Directors
Brian Gibson, Green Drop Lawns Ltd., Chair
Ken Ruddock, ULS Maintenance & Landscaping Inc.
Cody Brown, Tree to Tree Nurseries Ltd.
Jeff Oudyk, CSLA, AALA, JLG, Land Tec Landscape Contractors Ltd., Vice Chair
John van Roessel, CLM, CLT, JVR Landscape (2006) Inc., Treasurer
Matthew Chausse, Seasonal Impact
Vacant Vacant
Landscape Alberta Staff
Joel Beatson, CAE, CLHM, Executive Director joel.beatson@landscape-alberta.com
Marnie Main, Member Services Director member.services@landscape-alberta.com
Lisa Brick, Events Manager lisa.brick@landscape-alberta.com
Kyla Hardon, Communications Coordinator kyla.hardon@landscape-alberta.com
2023 Landscape Award of Merit Winner, Blue Isle Contracting, Residential Landscape Feature
CONTENTS
CALENDAR
January 28, 2025
SITEONE ONE STOP PARTNER EVENT - CALGARY
Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre, 1316 33 St NE, Calgary, AB Siteone.ca
January 30, 2025
SITEONE ONE STOP PARTNER EVENT - EDMONTON Wyndham Edmonton Hotel and Conference Centre, 4440 Gateway Blvd NW, Edmonton, AB Siteone.ca
February 5, 2025 2025 CNLA LEADERSHIP SUMMIT North Carolina, USA https://cnla.ca/events/summit25
February 25 – 27, 2025 PROFESSIONAL VEGETATION MANAGEMENT (PVMA) 2025 SPRING CONFERENCE & TRADESHOW River Cree Casino, Edmonton, AB https://www.pvma.ca/conferences
Effective Integration of AI in the Green Industry
BY SIMON LOEWEN, TERRALINK HORTICULTURE INC. AND THE ALBERTA GREENHOUSE GROWERS ASSOCIATION
Artificial intelligence (AI) has officially moved from science fiction into everyday business operations, offering potential benefits across numerous sectors, including the green industry. Yet, while this potential is seemingly so immense, the reality of AI adoption remains limited. Many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) find themselves asking: How can AI actually help my business, and what are the practical steps to implementing it effectively?
I have heard it said that in ten years there will be two types of companies: those that use AI in their operations, and those that are no longer in business. I believe that this is largely accurate, as with any new and game-changing technology (think of websites or mobile apps), there is simply no option for businesses to sit on the sidelines. This article aims to provide a nuanced look at how AI tools can be integrated into green industry operations. Rather than merely promoting the latest trends, it will address real-world challenges, acknowledge ongoing limitations, and suggest a few ideas for actually getting started.
The Disconnect: AI Hype and Business Reality
There are no shortage of claims about AI’s transformative power, but several significant factors contribute to the gap between all of these bold proclamations and their actual implementation:
1. Cost, Time, and Expertise: Although some AI tools are affordable, developing a useful workflow may require initial investments in training, data cleaning, or even external consulting. I can attest from my personal experience that even those with a “non-tech” background can learn to use many AI tools, but this still typically involves a learning curve that cannot be ignored.
2. Sector-Specific Nuances: The green industry spans landscaping, arboriculture, nursery management, greenhouse operations, and more. Each of these areas has unique business conditions and data requirements. Many generic tools might offer limited value without some level of AI experience or ability to implement domain-specific customization.
3. Complex Data Requirements: While user-friendly AI tools exist, in many cases effective adoption demands structured, high-quality data. This can be a challenge for green industry businesses that have never standardized data collection. According to agricultural extension reports (e.g., University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, 2020), many operators must first establish basic data practices to make AI insights meaningful.
4. Reluctance Around Inaccuracies or Oversimplification: AI models can produce plausible but incorrect or contextually irrelevant answers. While the reality is that the vast majority of Large Language Model (LLM) output is accurate and correct, over-reliance on AI without some degree of human oversight can lead to poor decisions or imperfect results. The best way to foster confidence is hands-on experience.
Practical AI Tools and Their Place in the Green Industry
Despite the challenges mentioned, there are a plethora of powerful (and in many cases free) AI tools that can deliver real value for your business:
1. AI-Powered Information Retrieval and Research
• Tool Example: Perplexity AI
This platform can provide concise answers to queries, citing reputable sources like academic journals or horticultural extension services. It can save time by gathering information quickly, and summarizing the key points for your specific context. Consider this the new and improved search engine, meaning you no longer need to scroll through a long list of blue links every time you need information.
Cost: Free
Example: A landscaper facing an unfamiliar boxwood disease can consult Perplexity AI to identify possible pathogens.
2. AI for Content Creation and Marketing
• Tool Example: Large Language Models
(e.g., ChatGPT, Bard, Claude)
These tools can assist with various tasks, such as drafting marketing copy and training materials for staff, or document analysis.
Cost: “Freemium” (base level features are no cost)
Examples:
• Drafting blog posts like “Preparing Your Garden for Winter” and then having a certified horticulturist verify the tips for accuracy before publication.
• Generating training materials for new staff members, tailored to specific business workflows such as operating point-of-sale systems, understanding inventory management, or recognizing common plant diseases.
3. AI for Data Analysis and Decision Support
• Tool Example: Spreadsheets with Integrated AI (Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets)
Leveraging embedded AI functions can reveal trends in labor costs, service call frequency, or irrigation usage (keeping in mind of course that the value of these insights still ultimately hinges on data quality).
Cost: $25-50 / month
Examples:
• Identifying patterns in pest outbreaks by correlating historical weather data (sourced from a local weather station) with pest incidence logs, then refining spraying schedules accordingly.
• Forecasting demand for certain plant varieties by analyzing sales trends over multiple seasons.
4. AI-Enhanced Project and Resource Management
• Tool Example: Notion AI with Integrated Project Management Features
These platforms can streamline project planning by automating scheduling, summarizing updates, and even generating task assignments based on priorities.
Cost: “Freemium”
Examples:
• Using Notion AI to generate project summaries that include overdue tasks, upcoming deadlines, and team progress.
• Forecasting seasonal demand and creating proactive schedules for labor allocation and inventory management.
5. AI-Powered Customer Service
• Tool Example: Text and Voice AI Systems
These systems go beyond traditional chatbots, utilizing the latest LLMs to provide intelligent, conversational support.
Effective Integration of AI in the Green Industry
With advanced backend CRM or POS integration, these “agents” can handle tasks such as inventory checks, appointment scheduling, and personalized customer interactions. While these tools require a bit more experience to set up, they are surprisingly affordable when contracted for specific business needs.
Cost: Varies based on integration complexity and customization
Example: A garden center can deploy a voice AI assistant to answer customer inquiries about available plant stock, schedule consultation appointments, or even suggest complementary products based on customer purchase history.
Building Confidence and Competence with AI
Successfully integrating AI into a green industry business involves starting small, and continuously refining strategies. Consider these steps:
1. Begin with a Single Use Case: Focus on one specific problem—analysing sales history, for example—and implement a simple AI-driven analysis tool. Evaluate results over a season (AKA practice!) and refine your methods based on results.
2. Seek Expertise and Training: Watch a few YouTube videos, take courses, or jump on a webinar. For instance, I co-host a bi-weekly (no cost) business use-case webinar on Eventbrite for beginners.
3. Have Fun and Experiment: Don’t be afraid to play around with tools and test unique ideas. Recently, I used a combination of 5 different AI tools to create custom Christmas Ecards. Not only did it refine my skills for generating marketing copy and promotional materials, but it also showed me what I’d look like in a bright red suit and giant beard without me having to go buy a Santa suit. Clearly a win win.
If you’re ready to explore AI, you should begin and gradually expand the scope of your AI use as you gain confidence. By starting with manageable use cases and broadening our AI skillset like we would with any new skill or tool, we can help the green industry move beyond the hype and begin to leverage AI as a practical tool—one that complements, rather than replaces, the hard-earned expertise of its professionals.
Industry and Association News
Great turnout for Green Industry Show & Conference in 2024
The Green Industry Show & Conference (GISC) 2024, held in Red Deer November 20-21, was a great success for attendees and exhibitors alike. Day 1 attendance jumped 25% from last year and Day 2 saw many attending despite a major snowstorm impacting travel. The event, held annually, continues to be the premiere horticulture industry event in Western Canada.
Highlights:
· All 26 conference sessions were very well attended and featured education streams for landscape designers and contractors, tree producers and arborists, and greenhouse operations. New this year, all sessions were recorded so that registrants had the opportunity to pre-purchase access to the recordings at a discount or purchase post-event access.
· The Landscape Alberta Nursery Producers had a record number of guests for their annual dinner and auction – always a highlight of our event. Preliminary numbers show an increased dollar amount raised for horticulture education and research.
· The tradeshow continues to perform well with more than 10 new exhibitors this year to combine with our returning supporters for nearly 100 companies represented. Total attendance was nearly identical to 2023 despite the snowstorm leading into the second day. Red Deer appears to be great place for the green industry across Western Canada to meet.
· The Alberta Greenhouse Growers Association Garden Party was another great celebration of the thriving greenhouse industry in the province and a great time for peers and friends to connect and celebrate the last year.
The GISC 2024 has once again proven to be a pivotal event for horticulture professionals in Western Canada. The dedication of
even
the
challenging weather, highlights the importance and relevance of the event’s mission. As organizers of the event, Landscape Alberta Nursery Trades Association
the attendees,
in
face of
Industry and Association News
extends their heartfelt gratitude to all participants, speakers, and sponsors for their unwavering support and contribution to the success of GISC 2024.
Save the Date: GISC 2025 will be held at Westerner Park in Red Deer, Alberta on November 13-14, 2025.
For more information about the Green Industry Show & Conference or Landscape Alberta, please contact: admin@landscape-alberta.com
SAVE THE DATE for Leadership Summit
Looking for new ways to advertise in 2025?
CNLA will host its Winter Leadership Summit on February 5th at Caterpillar Inc.’s R&D facility in Raleigh, North Carolina.
The North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association (NCLNA) and the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) will participate.
SPOTLIGHT: National Skills Trade & Technology Week
Skills Canada celebrated the 20th National Skills Trade and Technology Week at Campus Regina Public in Regina, Saskatchewan, with over 600 students participating in various “try-a-trade” activities. Landscape Saskatchewan and CNLA represented the landscape profession with their famous “Paver Challenge,” drawing enthusiastic students into friendly competitions to achieve the best time.
The next Skills Canada National Competition will take place in Regina on May 29–30 at the REAL District. If you are interested in volunteering for the event, please contact admin@landscape-alberta.com.
Even your business should have New Year’s resolutions! Whether your want to reach new audiences, gain new customers, or increase sales, advertising with Landscape Alberta can help you achieve your goals! We have or quarterly print publication, Green for Life magazine and our NEW digital advertising opportunities.
Green for Life Magazine
Our quarterly magazine features articles, news updates, and event listings for the industry. A print copy is mailed to approximately 400 Landscape Alberta members, and a digital version is available online to an expanded audience.
We also feature a special Green Industry Show & Conference edition for the Oct/Nov/Dec issue. With several ad sizes, you can choose the right ad for your company and budget.
Digital Advertising
Landscape Alberta is thrilled to offer brand-new digital advertising opportunities. These packages allow members and partners to market directly to the Landscape Alberta membership and industry related businesses through web ads and retargeting.
Scan to view advertising guides.
OHS for Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries are now common in a wide range of products, devices and equipment used by consumers and industry. Although their high energy density can make them more useful than other battery types, it can also make lithium batteries very dangerous if they fail. Some of the hazards when they fail include:
• Exploding or bursting into flame in a thermal runaway reaction (some lithium batteries have an energy density close to that of dynamite).
• Venting of toxic vapours.
• Release of corrosive materials.
• Electric shock (particularly when used in some high-voltage applications, such as electric vehicles or large power tools).
Alberta’s OHS legislation doesn’t have any specific requirements regarding lithium batteries. However, employers, supervisors and workers still have certain legislated health and safety responsibilities that apply in relation to such batteries due to their hazardous nature. To learn more, see Lithium batteries on the OHS Resource Portal.
Industry and Association News
Updates on changes to TFWP (non-SAWP)
Please see the below for additional information about the changes announced on October 21, 2024, to Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirements under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFW Program). This does not include the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program.
Wage threshold for high and low-wage streams
Under the TFW Program, when employers apply for an LMIA in either the high or low-wage streams, the hourly wage offered by the employer for the requested position determines which stream applies.
Starting November 8, 2024, the provincial and territorial wage threshold used to determine the applicable stream will be increased by 20% over the current level.
As of November 8, employers, before submitting an LMIA application, will be able to consult the updated reference table available on the TFW Program website to find out the new applicable thresholds. This change does not apply to LMIA applications received before November 8 that are currently being processed, or those for which decisions have already been made.
Each of these streams has different requirements, particularly with respect to recruitment efforts, and transportation and
Take Advantage of these Member Perks!
Michelin: Special pricing on MICHELIN Passenger & Light Truck, Agriculture, Compact Line, Tweel SSL and Earthmover Tires.
Wacker Neuson: 5% off MSRP on select Wacker Neuson products. Administration fees apply.
CLS: Members receive a free digital download copy of the Canadian Landscape Standard 2.0. Visit https://www.csla-aapc.ca/standard to get your copy!
Lenovo: Save up to 45% off on select Lenovo technologies, accessories, software, and much more.
Petro Canada: Effective November 1, 2024 increase in savings from 3.5 cents / litre and 20% off car washes to 5 cents/ litre off at retail locations and 25% off car washes.
housing for temporary foreign workers. Employers are reminded of their obligation to ensure these requirements are met at all times.
Supporting documents required for the LMIA
As part of the LMIA, job offers described in the application are assessed to ensure that the business and the job offer are both genuine and legitimate.
Starting October 28, 2024:
• Attestations from Chartered Professional Accountants or lawyers (or any other member in good standing with a law society) will no longer be accepted as supporting documentation to demonstrate the legitimacy of the employer’s business.
• However, attestations from official representatives of regulated financial institutions will still be accepted, but only to substantiate the following legitimacy factor: The business has the ability to fulfill terms of the job offer.
This change also applies to LMIA applications received before October 28, 2024, that are still under assessment and for which a decision has not been rendered by Service Canada. Service Canada officers will contact employers who have submitted an attestation that has become ineligible, if applicable. Employers will then have the opportunity to provide additional supporting documents.
This new information and details of the supporting documents required for LMIAs will be available on the TFW Program website as of October 28, 2024.
Esso: Increase from 2.9 cents off / litre to 3.2 cents / litre. 10% off oil changes at Mr. Lube
Michelin: Special pricing on MICHELIN Passenger & Light Truck, Agriculture, Compact Line, Tweel SSL and Earthmover Tires.
Greenius: Members receive a FREE 2-month license of Greenius Training Software, Unlimited users for 2 months and Unlimited training courses + FREE custom implementation.
St. John Ambulance: Members receive discounts on first aid courses and kits.
Are you a member of the Landscape Alberta? Are you taking advantage of your Member Benefits?
We offer discounted pricing on vehicles & equipment, industry training, financial services & much more!
To access the Member Benefits portal, click here. If you don’t have a log-in please reach out to memberservices@cnla-acpp. ca to request one.
Calculation of the effect of the cap on the proportion of low-wage positions
As a reminder, a cap on the maximum proportion of low-wage temporary foreign workers that an employer may have at a given work location is in place to ensure that Canadians and permanent residents are considered first for available jobs.
As part of their LMIA applications, employers must determine if they are within the allowable proportion of low-wage temporary foreign workers with LMIAs relative to the total workforce at a given work location. This includes full-time and part-time workers, whether they are Canadians, permanent residents, asylum seekers or foreign workers.
More information on cap requirements for low-wage positions can be found on the LMIA application and on the TFW Program website, including information on existing exemptions.
EAB Boundary Expanded in BC
The CFIA announced an expansion of the regulated area with the evidence of Emerald Ash Borer found in Burnaby. Landscape Alberta has continued conversations with Alberta Agriculture about adding EAB as a Named Pest to help with the implementation of re striction protocols and other protections.
“As part of their LMIA applications, employers must determine if they are within the allowable proportion of low-wage temporary foreign workers with LMIAs relative to the total workforce at a given work location.”
Top 100 Independent Garden Centres
Congratulations to our Independent Canadian Retail Garden Centre who made the top 100. The 2024 top 100 list, compiled in spring 2024, is based on 2023 retail revenue as reported by garden centres in North America. All Canadian retail revenue numbers have been converted to USD by the submitting garden centres.
The number of store locations is based on the most recent information available. Garden centres that reported the same revenue received the same ranking on the list. Congrats to three Alberta garden centres who made the list: Blue Grass, Greenland Garden Centre and Spruce it Up.
• The increase in consumer preference for in-person community interactions over social platforms.
• The surge in AI and the shift towards anti-reality.
• How trends traditionally outside of the industry are making their way into green spaces, such as music and fashion. 2025’s colour of the year!
Fifth case of Dutch elm disease confirmed in Edmonton
The City of Edmonton has confirmed a fifth elm tree has tested positive for Dutch elm disease (DED). The elm tree is on private property in the Killarney neighbourhood, near the four trees confirmed in August to have Dutch elm disease. A one-kilometre protocol zone was established around these trees at that time. The City has been performing enhanced monitoring and assessments in this area to contain the spread of the disease.
From Manager to Leader: Building Leadership in the Nursery Industry
BY RAYNE GIBSON, TAPROOTS HORTICULTURE CONSULTING
The difference between merely managing a team and leading one can be the catalyst that propels your business from good to great. As a nursery owner or manager, embracing the principles of effective leadership not only enhances team performance but also fosters a culture of innovation, resilience, and growth. Here’s how you can transition from a manager to a leader and build a thriving nursery business.
Understanding the Shift: Manager vs. Leader
Firstly, it’s crucial to understand the distinction between a manager and a leader. Managers focus on processes, ensuring tasks are completed and targets are met. Leaders, on the other hand, inspire and motivate their teams, creating a vision and guiding their people towards achieving it. In the nursery industry, this shift means moving beyond the day-to-day operations and focusing on long-term goals, employee development, and fostering a positive workplace culture. It’s about being proactive rather than reactive, strategic rather than tactical.
Cultivating Leadership Qualities
1. Vision and Inspiration
Leaders have a clear vision for the future and the ability to inspire others to buy into that vision. In the nursery industry, this might mean envisioning a business that’s known for sustainable practices, innovative products, or exceptional customer service. Share your vision with your team and inspire them to contribute to this goal.
2. Empathy and Communication
Effective leaders communicate openly and empathetically. Understand the challenges your team faces and provide support where needed. Regularly engage with your employees, not just about work-related issues but also about their personal aspirations and concerns. This builds trust and fosters a sense of community.
3. Empowerment and Development
Invest in your team’s growth. Provide opportunities for training and professional development. Empower your employees by delegating responsibilities and trusting them to make decisions. This not only enhances their skills but also boosts their confidence and commitment to the business.
From Manager to Leader: Building Leadership in the Nursery Industry
4. Resilience and Adaptability
The nursery industry can be unpredictable, with challenges ranging from market fluctuations to climate changes. Leaders remain resilient in the face of adversity and adapt to changing circumstances. Show your team that challenges are opportunities for growth and innovation.
5. Recognition and Appreciation
Acknowledge and celebrate your team’s achievements. Regular recognition boosts morale and motivates employees to maintain high performance. Whether it’s a simple thank-you note, a shoutout in a team meeting, or more formal recognition programs, showing appreciation goes a long way.
Practical
Steps to Transition from Manager to Leader
1. Set Clear Goals and Expectations
Establish clear, achievable goals and communicate them effectively to your team. Ensure that everyone understands their role in achieving these goals and how their efforts contribute to the bigger picture.
2. Foster a Collaborative Environment
Encourage collaboration and teamwork. Create an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas and working together to solve problems. Regular team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative projects can foster a sense of unity and collective purpose.
3. Lead by Example
Model the behavior you wish to see in your team. Demonstrate commitment, integrity, and a positive attitude. Your team will take cues from your actions, so it’s essential to lead by example.
4. Provide Constructive Feedback
Regularly provide constructive feedback to help your team improve and grow.
Focus on specific behaviors and outcomes, and offer practical suggestions for improvement. Remember to also recognize what they are doing well to balance the feedback.
5. Create a Positive Workplace Culture
Cultivate a positive and inclusive workplace culture. Encourage diversity, promote work-life balance, and ensure that your team feels valued and respected. A positive culture attracts and retains top talent, driving your business’s success.
Conclusion
Transitioning from a manager to a leader in the nursery industry is not just about changing your title but about transforming your approach to management. By focusing on vision, communication, empowerment, resilience, and recognition, you can build a motivated, high-performing team that drives your nursery business to new heights. Embrace the journey of leadership and watch as your team and business flourish together.
Printed with permission by Taproots Horticulture Consulting.
Your green industry consultant and business advisor. https://www.taprootshc.com/
Restricted waters: Adopting best practices and technology when water is scarce
BY JULIA HAMSWORTH
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.
Restricted waters: Adopting best practices and technology when water is scarce
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.
“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.
Restricted waters: Adopting best practices and technology when water is scarce
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.
Restricted waters: Adopting best practices and technology when water is scarce
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.”
Article reprinted with permission by Landscape Trades.
