BE A WORM RANGER
GOOD CONTRACTS
FOUNDATION DONORS
ADVOCACY IN 2021 PLUS:
21 TYPICAL MARKETING PROBLEMS
january 2021 n v44 n1
ALSO INSIDE:
A NURSERY DEMAND ‘RENAISSANCE’
T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E M I N N E S OTA N U R S E RY & L A N DS C A P E A SS OC I AT I ON
WHOLESALE & PROFESSIONAL TURF SUPPLY
Plant Material • • • • • •
Annuals & Tropicals Perennials & Grasses Shrubs & Vines Trees & Evergreens Roses & Native Plants Edibles
l a u t r Vi
Although virtual this year, we are still striving to help you get everything you need to get your job done.
Professional Turf Supply
• Grass Seed & Seeding Supplies • Fertilizers, Herbicides, Insecticides & Repellents • Ball Field Products & Arborjet • Erosion Control & Soil Amendments
Hardscape Materials • • • •
Retaining Wall Block Paver Bricks Outdoor Living Kits Natural Stone & Boulders
Landscape Supplies • • • •
Mulch & Soils Landscape Rock Edging, Fabric, NDS Landscape Tools & Rental Equipment • Landscape Lighting & Pond Supplies
5500 Blaine Avenue | Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076 | P: 651-450-0277 | F: 651-450-9380 | E: wholesale@gertens.com
gertenswholesale.com
WHOLESALE NURSERY & HARDSCAPES
XL Units
EFFICIENT TO INSTALL
FINISH OPTIONS
Beacon Hill™ Flagstone Beacon Hill Smooth Bristol Valley® Umbriano®
21 x 35" UNILYFT™
Makes it easy to place
With labor at a premium these days, it's never been more important to choose products that are efficient to install. Our 21” x 35” size units are now available in a variety of color and finish options, to meet the style demands of even the fussiest client. Each unit covers a whopping 5.25 square feet and can be easily placed with a two man lifter or Unilyft.
Contact 1-800-UNILOCK or visit UNILOCK.COM to connect with your local Territory Manager.
FE
TIFIE
AL
N
O PR
12
ER
D
C
january 2021 n v44 n1
SSIO
33
8 Events 17
10 Out of Change May Come Opportunity President Malooly analyzes the changes in the way we work in the wake of a pandemic.
22 MNLA Foundation Thanks Donors Your generous contributions enable us to continue to provide research information,
27
12
Be a Worm Ranger Dr. James Calkins invites you to help research on jumping worms by becoming a Worm Ranger in Minnesota.
scholarships, and career outreach.
32 MNLA.biz Job Board Employers can find their next great hire; green industry pros can keep their career on the move.
33 Professional Development Opportunities The Green Industry Leadership Institute, MNLA’s
17
A Demand ‘Renaissance’ For Nurseries Curt Kipp found that growers advise flexibility as they anticipate shortages, substitutions and sustained demand for 2021.
Mentorship Program, and MNLA Certification will all help move you forward!
35 Master Classes 2021 The popular Northern Green Master Classes have
27
21 Typical Marketing Problems for Lawn & Landscape Companies Chad Diller encourages you to take an honest assessment and make some tough decisions to solve these common issues.
been moved to February and March.
41 The Virtual Trade Show Goes On… The 2021 Northern Green Virtual Trade Show is accessible until September 1, 2021 via desktop, tablet, or mobile phone.
36
What Makes a Good Contract? Patrick McGuiness address the common request: “Will you look at my contracts and make sure they are good?”
46
Virtual Advocacy in 2021 Director of Government Affairs Cyr explains how MNLA will adjust our approach to government affairs during the pandemic.
Landscape & Hardscape Install & Design Garden Services & Landscape Mgmt Garden Centers Growers: Nursery & Greenhouse Irrigation & Water Mgmt Arborists & Tree Services All
42 2020-2021 Collegiate Scholarship Winners The MNLA Foundation partnered with 16 members to present 26 collegiate scholarships in 2020.
47 Day on the Hill This virtual event will elevate green industry issues and educate members and legislators about our policy priorities.
Cover photo:© Can Stock Photo Inc. / wolterk. Table of Contents Images: Top: James Calkins. Middle: iStock.com/ronstik. Bottom: iStock.com/aurielaki. january 21 MNLA.BIZ
5
DIRECTORY
january 2021 n v44 n1
MINNESOTA NURSERY & LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION Successful Businesses Grow Here! 1813 Lexington Ave. N., Roseville, MN 55113 651-633-4987 • Fax: 651-633-4986 Outside the metro area, toll free: 888-886-MNLA, Fax: 888-266-4986 www.MNLA.biz • www.NorthernGreen.org Mission: The mission of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association is to help members grow successful businesses. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Tim Malooly, CID, CLIA, CIC, President Water in Motion 763-559-7771 • timm@watermotion.com Randy Berg, Vice-President Berg’s Nursery, Landscape/Garden Center 507-433-2823 • randy@bergsnursery.com Matt Mallas, Secretary-Treasurer Hedberg Supply 763-512-2849 • mmallas@hedbergaggregates.com Faith Appelquist, MNLA-CP Tree Quality LLC 612-618-5244 • faith@treequality.com Patrick McGuiness Zlimen & McGuiness PLLC (651) 331-6500 • pmcguiness@zmattorneys.com Mike McNamara Hoffman & McNamara Nursery & Landscaping 651-437-9463 • mike.mcnamara@hoffmanandmcnamara.com John O’Reilly Otten Bros. Garden Center and Landscaping 952-473-5425 • j.oreilly@ottenbros.com Jeff Pilla, MNLA-CP Professional Turf, Inc. (Proturf) 952-469-8680 • jeff@professionalturf.com Nick Sargent, MNLA-CP Sargent’s Landscape Nursery, Inc. 507-289-0022 • njsargent@sargentsgardens.com Cassie Larson, CAE MNLA Executive Director 651-633-4987 • cassie@mnla.biz STAFF DIRECTORY Executive Director: Cassie Larson, CAE • cassie@mnla.biz Membership Director & Trade Show Manager: Mary Dunn, CEM • mary@mnla.biz Communications Dir.: Jon Horsman, CAE • jon@mnla.biz Education/Cert. Manager: Susan Flynn • susan@mnla.biz Dir. of Government Affairs: Forrest Cyr • forrest@mnla.biz Regulatory Affairs Manager: Jim Calkins • jim@mnla.biz Accountant: Kris Peterson • kris@mnla.biz Foundation Program Coordinator: Paulette Sorenson • paulette@mnla.biz Administrative Assistant: Lora Sondrol • lora@mnla.biz Advertising Sales: 763-295-5420 Betsy Pierre, Advertising Mgr • betsy@pierreproductions.com Legislative Affairs Consultant: Doug Carnival 6
MNLA.BIZ january 21
Ancom Communications Inc and Midwest Radio Rentals ......... 16 Anderson Nurseries, Inc. ................................................................... 34 Arborjet .................................................................................................. 15 Aspen Equipment ................................................................................ 40 Bachman’s Wholesale Nursery & Hardscapes ............................... 3 Bullis Insurance Agency ..................................................................... 45 Carlin Sales/ProGreen Plus .............................................................. 34 Central Landscape Supply .................................................................. 9 Contree Sprayer & Equipment Co, LLC ........................................... 38 COWSMO, INC. ......................................................................................... 9 Cushman Motor Co. Inc ....................................................................... 11 Dayton Bag & Burlap .......................................................................... 38 Edney Distributing Co., Inc. ............................................................... 14 Frost Inc ................................................................................................. 34 Fury Motors ........................................................................................... 37 Gertens Wholesale & Professional Turf Supply ............................. 2 Glacial Ridge Growers ........................................................................ 45 Hedberg Supply ................................................................................... 16 Jeff Belzer Chevrolet ..................................................................... 24–25 Lano Equipment, Inc. .......................................................................... 31 Maguire Agency .................................................................................... 21 Out Back Nursery ................................................................................. 31 Plaisted Companies .............................................................................. 7 Rock Hard Landscape Supply............................................................ 21 SMSC Organics Recycling Facility...................................................... 21 Sunbelt Midwest..................................................................................... 9 The Resultants ...................................................................................... 11 The Tessman Company ....................................................................... 32 Tri-State Bobcat, Inc. .......................................................................... 39 Unilock Chicago, Inc. ............................................................................. 4 Versa-Lok Midwest .............................................................................. 26 Ziegler CAT ............................................................................. Back Cover
UPCOMING
MNLA is continuing to plan education and events for the green industry. All precautions will be taken to meet social distancing requirements and the guidelines set in place by local and state agencies as well as venues. Should changes occur causing an event to be cancelled due to COVID-19 issues, your registration would be refunded in full.
FEB
05
MNLA CERTIFICATION EXAM Sit for the exam to become an MNLA Certified Professional in 2021. Also offered Feb. 12 and 19th. Roseville ➽MNLA.biz
FEB
10
MASTER CLASS: GREEN INDUSTRY TECHNOLOGY There have been tremendous strides in user-friendly technology all throughout the Green Industry. This online workshop will focus on the technology available to industry practitioners and how it can benefit you and your career. Online Class ➽MNLA.biz
FEB
15 +22
MASTER CLASS: FAVORITE PLANTS FOR MINNESOTA GARDENS A plethora of best performing landscape plants — from woody trees, shrubs and conifers, to herbaceous perennials, annuals and even houseplants — will be featured. With so many great plants to share, this class is being offered on two days. Join us for one or both! Online Class ➽MNLA.biz
FEB
17
MASTER CLASS: GOING FROM GOOD TO GREAT – HARDSCAPE EFFICIENCY BOOTCAMP WITH FRANK BOURQUE This interactive workshop includes a combination of presentations and team engagement exercises. We’ll also be building a strategic business plan for the four departments every landscape/hardscape business must navigate and systemize: marketing, admin, production, and sales. Online Class ➽MNLA.biz
FEB
26
MASTER CLASS: PESTICIDE RECERTIFICATION ZOOM WORKSHOP Pending approval by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, this workshop meets Commercial Pesticide Applicator Requirements for Category A (Core) and Category E (Turf and Ornamentals). Recertification for Categories P (Vertebrate Pest) will also be offered. Online Class ➽MNLA.biz
iStock.com/Chinnapong
MAR
04
MASTER CLASS: PLT RELICENSURE Pending Minnesota Dept. of Labor & Industry approval, this in-person class satisfies eight hours of continuing education requirements for the Power Limited Training Licensure, including 2 hours of code and 6 hours of technical training oriented specifically toward
The Scoop, January 2021, Issue 1 is issued monthly,
the landscape industry.
12 times per year. All original works, articles or formats
Eagan ➽ MNLA.biz
published in The Scoop are © Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association, 2021, and may not be used without written permission of MNLA, 1813 Lexington Ave N., Roseville, MN 55113. Subscription price is $99 for one year, which is included with member dues. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Scoop, MNLA, 1813 Lexington Ave N., Roseville, MN 55113. Editorial Contributions. You are invited to share your
2021 MNLA seminars
expertise and perspective. Article ideas and manuscripts
generously supported by:
WHOLESALE NURSERY & HARDSCAPES
should, whenever possible, reflect real and specific
Your Trusted Partner
experiences. When submitting an article, please contact the publisher at jon@mnla.biz or 651-633-4987. MNLA
reserves the right to edit all Scoop content.
➽Information on industry events: MNLA.biz/events. Free member-only videos: MNLA.biz/OnlineEducation.
8
MNLA.BIZ january 21
Business
Skills Training
Networking
Leadership Development
General
GET ALL YOUR CONTRACTOR SUPPLY NEEDS! CALL US FOR THE BEST SELECTION IN THE INDUSTRY GROWERS: Nursery Containers, Wire Baskets/ Burlap , Horticulture Tools, Corrugated Tree, Protectors, Digging Spades, Osmocote Fertilizers and Grower’s Mixes.
NURSERY STOCK: Deciduous Shrubs, Evergreen Shrubs, B&B Trees, Perennials, Specialty Conifers, Specialty Deciduous and *Field Direct Trees.
RETAIL: Chemicals, Grass Seeds, Tools/ Pruners, Water Gardening, Supplies, Garden Hose, Bird Feeders, Feed and Yard Ornaments.
EROSION CONTROL: Wood Blankets, Straw Blankets, Geojute, Sod Staples, Silt Fence, Grass Seed & Sediment Logs.
CONTRACTORS: Edging, Fabrics, Low Voltage, Lighting, Retaining Wall Systems, Pavers, Bulk Materials, Safety Supplies and Wheelbarrows.
® ® PAVING SYSTEM FEATURINGCHARLESTON CHARLESTON HIGHLAND STONE® FEATURING PAVING SYSTEM WALL SYSTEM & HIGHLAND STONE® WALL SYSTEM!
www.centrallandscape.com
1-800-772-3888 | Fax 1-888-257-5577 | sales@centrallandscape.com
4026 County Road 74 South
|
St. Cloud, MN 56301
It’s a Great Time to Sell Your Lawn Maintenance & Landscaping Business with Sunbelt Business Advisors! + Bob Harris is a designated Lawn Maintenance & Landscape Industry Expert (Business Brokerage Press) + Large database of buyers looking to acquire lawn maintenance & landscaping businesses + Member of the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA)
Bob Harris, Business Broker, CBI Sunbelt Business Advisors Direct: 612-716-4579 Email: bharris@sunbeltmidwest.com
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Out of Change May Come Opportunity Tim Malooly
Water in Motion
Changes in the wake of a Pandemic From the perspective of office operations, our Green Industry organizations have experienced first-hand the adjustments to/on/with our businesses in light of the changes forced upon us the past ten months. Changes that might otherwise be thought to only affect “other” industries. Most of the changes involve the utilization of technology. Much of the technology existed before 2020; we (as an industry) were simply not using it either at all or as extensively as we must today including: • Microsoft Teams®, Zoom®, Webex®, Verizon BlueJeans® and other web-based communications software • Cloud-based applications • New or expanded use of our desk and mobile technology • Being “ok” with the concept of a “remote workplace” • New methods of selling • And more Since we are “all in this together” it seems, we all get a break to experiment with how to deliver our products and services. The adjusted expectations of our clients, our staffs, our families, and ourselves is enabling significant changes to office methods and practices that might otherwise have taken years. Several months into this period of “forced” change at our companies, most of my staff and I are becoming comfortable with many (but, not all) of the changes to our office operations. How about you and your staff? The sometimes dramatic measures we’ve taken resultant of the pandemic will eventually pass. Do you anticipate making permanent some of the changes you’ve made to your office operation? Thinking about your field operation, have you considered investigating implementing some changes beyond the mandatory actions dictated by CDC? Several technologies are known to us as an industry but, largely (or actually)
10
MNLA.BIZ january 21
considered immature or impractical. Will the necessity brought on by the pandemic, a limited labor force, and other issues force a maturing and greater acceptance of available technologies for field use? Of course, it’s understood that many Green Industry practitioners must deliver services by driving to a location and applying parts and labor to conduct our work. Let’s consider a few of our industry segments and available technology that may or may not truly be “immature”: Mowing and Stewardship Robotic mowers – will these devices advance significantly? Will we as an industry be more open to trying this emerging technology? Electric stewardship equipment – with many of our clients working from home, adopting use of quieter machines may turn out to endear you to your client. Landscape Irrigation We are not necessarily invited to (nor want to) enter the properties of client locations during the pandemic, yet irrigation professionals are largely specialist practitioners who must apply skills to plumbing and electrical elements of an irrigation system. This is especially true in the four-season areas where we start irrigation systems in the spring and shut irrigation systems off in the fall. Remote-access water supply valves have been available for years, but until now not widely installed. Remote-control and SMART irrigation controllers have been available for almost as long as the remote-access water supply valve. Both technologies have been enhanced in recent years with the advent of the “Internet-of-Things” (IOT), but until now have been limited to early adopters – largely based on requests of a small segment of owners of irrigation systems.
An example of an autonomously-operating mower.
Landscape Installers As consumers, we’ve heard much lately about autonomous driving cars. But, what about autonomously-operated excavation equipment? Haven’t heard of this technology? Take a look at some of the videos posted on YouTube®. Growers Robots and autonomous operations have been increasing at the grower-level for the past few years. Much of the growth has been attributed to a limited (willing) workforce. The actions brought on by the pandemic will likely accelerate the demand for automation technologies for this segment of our industry. Opportunity Thinking about the industry segment(s) in which you specialize, can you imagine utilizing new technology to make your day easier? To improve your efficiency? To differentiate yourself from others? To increase your bottom line? I’ll bet many of you are familiar with one or more “new” technologies that for one reason/excuse or another, you haven’t yet tried or adopted. The changes upon us today may be the time to seize an opportunity!
➽I’D LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU. Please let me know your thoughts on this or any other topic at TimM@ watermotion.com.
YOUR ONE TRACTOR SOLUTION Mow Slopes
Aeration & Overseed
Fall Cleanup
Schedule a Ventrac DEMO with:
Cushman Motor Company, Inc. 2909 E Franklin Ave • Minneapolis, MN (612) 333-3487 • 1-800-759-5343 www.cushmanmotorco.com
january 21 MNLA.BIZ
11
RESEARCH FOR THE REAL WORLD
12
MNLA.BIZ january 21
WORM Be a
RANGER
Dr. James Calkins MNLA Foundation Research Information Director
James Calkins
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA CITIZEN SCIENCE JUMPING WORMS PROJECT Unfortunately, jumping worms (Amynthas and Metaphire spp.), non-native and harmful earthworms that have been introduced to North America from Asia, have found their way to Minnesota. However, the extent of their distribution in the state is unknown and is the focus of an ongoing University of Minnesota research project in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA), the Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center, and Great Lakes Worm Watch. The research is funded by the Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pest Center (MITPPC; https://mitppc.umn.edu/) with money from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission for Minnesota Resources (LCCMR). Unlike the other earthworms that are found in Minnesota which are also non-native and were introduced from Europe long ago, it appears young and adult jumping worms do not survive the winter in cold climates like Minnesota. They do survive over winter as eggs enclosed in cocoons. Together with new introductions, these eggs give rise to new and expanding populations on an annual basis. As
a result, late summer and early fall are the best time to look for jumping worms because they are bigger and populations are at their peak. Jumping worms live in organic matter on the surface of the soil and in the top few inches of soil and can have serious impacts on designed landscapes and native ecosystems. Just like European earthworms, jumping worms can be moved around when used as bait by anglers and when infested soil is moved from one location to another. Jumping worms and their cocoons can also be moved to new areas in a variety of yard and horticultural wastes and horticultural commodities including fieldgrown and container-grown nursery stock, sod, compost, and landscape mulch (including woodchips and bagged and bulk mulches). They can also be transported in soil attached to vehicles and equipment and even footwear. For these reasons, it is especially important that nursery and landscape practitioners be aware of this pest and take steps to prevent their spread and introduction to new areas. Nursery and landscape professionals can also help educate the public about jumping worms as a valuable source of information regarding their distribution across the state. You can help researchers learn more about jumping worms by becoming a Worm january 21 MNLA.BIZ
13
RESEARCH FOR THE REAL WORLD
SNOW DOESN’T STAND A CHANCE. BLADES
ROTARY BOOMS
V-BLADES
See one in action at grasshoppermower.com/snowthrower
www.edneyco.com 888.443.3639
James Calkins
Equip your zero-turn Grasshopper with one of our heavy-duty snow removal implements, that’s designed for your location and you’ll power through deep, heavy, wet snow like a hot knife through butter.
CONNECT WITH US
Bulk Volume Discounts on Garden Center Trays There are 1,080 trays per pallet. The pop-up tray size is 16 x 12 x 3. Pallets can be delivered for a small fee or you can save delivery charges by picking them up at the Brooklyn Park location. Visit MNLA.biz/GardenCenterTrays to download an order form, or contact Mary at 651-633-4987.
Ranger to locate jumping worms throughout Minnesota. It only takes a few minutes once you know what to look for. Visit the Jumping Worm Project Citizen Science Website to learn more about jumping worms including training on how to identify them, where to look for them, how they spread, what to do if you find jumping worms on your property, and how to report them. Once again, training only takes a few minutes. Encourage your colleagues, employees, customers, coworkers, friends, families, and neighbors to be looking for jumping worms too. And don’t forget that negative data (i.e., no jumping worms found) is also important so if you don’t find any jumping worms, report that too. The project will continue in 2021 so continue looking for jumping worms this year to help us get a better understanding of the status of jumping worms in Minnesota. Be a Worm Ranger and visit https://jwp. cfans.umn.edu/jumping-worms-project. ➽TO COMMENT On this research update, suggest research topics of interest, or pass along a piece of research-based information that might be of interest to your industry colleagues, please email us at Research@MNLA.biz.
14
MNLA.BIZ january 21
â„¢
ENHANCE YOUR TREE & SHRUB FERTILIZATION SERVICE
Prescriptive Fertilization and Soil Enhancement Program Products designed to maximize tree and shrub health by combining plant nutrition with solutions to enhance soil quality, stimulate root growth and improve water availability. Liquid Solutions Do Not Require Mechanical Agitation Tank Compatible for Easy Combination Applications
arborjet.com/ArborRx
ArborPlex forms the foundation of the Arbor Rx Program.
WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED
Buying portable or mobile radios keeps your people in touch
Renting or adding radios for your seasonal projects is cost effective
Never be out of touch with your crews
Proudly Celebrating 30 Years Serving the Midwest! Locally Owned and Operated 1991 - 2021 SALES: 952-808-0033 RENTALS: 952-890-7570 SERVICE: 952-808-7699 ROCHESTER: 507-281-1917
Visit our website at WWW.ANCOM.ORG MOTOROLA, MOTO, MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS and the Stylized M Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Motorola Trademark Holdings, LLC and are used under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. 2021Motorola Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.
GET YOUR
EVERYTHING
TM
#WHERETHEPROSGO HedbergSupply.com
Plymouth 763-545-4400 Stillwater 651-748-3158
DEMAND A
‘RENAISSANCE’ For Nurseries
Curt Kipp
iStock.com/ronstik
Oregon Association of Nurseries
january 21 MNLA.BIZ
17
NURSERY DEMAND
18
MNLA.BIZ january 21
GROWERS ADVISE FLEXIBILITY as they anticipate shortages, substitutions and sustained demand for 2021. Article first published in Digger, published by the Oregon Association of Nurseries (OAN)
Bill Goloski, OAN
In 2020, North American nurseries experienced a rollercoaster ride of escalating dread, stomach-churning twists and unexpected thrills. There was uncertainty in the early spring due to COVID-related shutdowns in the U.S. and Canada, but nurseries were allowed to stay open, resulting in robust orders and shipments from spring into summer. With travel canceled and many white-collar employees working from home, more folks than usual found refuge in their backyard gardens, driving sustained demand for plants. The spring may have started off wobbly, but the summer had serious legs lasting into the fall. Many growers had to seriously hustle to keep up. “Everyone wanted everything at the same time,” said Debbie Lonnee, product development manager for Bailey Nurseries, during a recent panel discussion. Bailey is a large and highly diversified grower of shrubs, trees, liners, seedlings and rootstocks based in St. Paul, Minnesota, with additional growing locations in Illinois, Washington state, and Oregon. That leaves green industry businesses to ask — what’s coming in 2021?
Shortages, substitutions and sustained demand Lonnee and others took part in a recent online panel convened by the Nursery and Landscape Association Executives of North America (NLAE). Participants were bullish, saying they expect plant shortages, substitutions, higher prices and sustained demand for plants this coming spring, as consumers continue their newfound love affair with gardening. Jeff Olsen serves as president and CEO of Brookdale Treeland Nurseries Limited, a major Canadian grower headquartered in Schomberg, Ontario, with growing locations from the Maritimes to British Columbia. He said the strong demand his nursery experienced in late spring and summer of 2020 has continued into Christmas tree season, where the company also has a strong market presence. Holiday orders are up 10–15% from a year ago. Olsen takes that as a positive sign for his nursery lines in the spring of 2021 and beyond.
“I’m so excited,” Olsen said. “I mean, I feel we’re in a real renaissance here. People are rediscovering their gardens. It’s such a wonderful thing for our business. So sad for so many businesses that are affected negatively in this pandemic, but certainly for gardening and home improvement, I see it continuing at least the next 2–3 years, at least into 2021. Chris Scott serves as director of sales for Altman Specialty Plants, one of the nation’s largest growers with locations in California, Texas, Florida and Colorado. As others did, he saw an increase in business as the spring of 2021 went on. “We saw a lot of gardeners come into the fold as a customer base,” he said. Scott said it remains to be seen whether staycations, and working from home, will continue as trends in 2021, but he expects to increase production and sales overall. His company is just taking a more conservative approach. “I think there’s still some uncertainty out in the marketplace next spring this year for us,” he said. Making production adjustments In an ideal world, wholesalers would be able to grow everything customers need in the size and format they want, ship everything to where it’s needed, and sell through the entire crop. Of course, that doesn’t happen. One can’t know the market that far ahead. Growers must look at sales trends and make ongoing adjustments to production quantities. The longer the cycle of the crop, the more difficult this proves to be. “When you’re a grower of woody material, the difficult part is to make drastic production increases that can take 2–3 years,” said Martin Hackney, a sales representative with Hackney Nursery Company, a large grower of woody plants and perennials based in Greensboro, Florida. “Really, the only the reaction we can do at this point is to try and find the largest liners we can and plant those when and where they’re available, just to fill the gaps of what’s being created now.” According to Lonnee, Bailey at this point in time can’t significantly adjust its quantity of plants coming out for shipment in 2021. “All those plants are ready,” she said. “They’re going to be overwintered, and will be shipped in the spring of ’21 or throughout the summer. We’re actually planning for beyond that.” It’s similar for Woodburn Nursery & Azaleas Inc., based in Woodburn, Oregon, which is one of the largest growers of woody material in the state. According to Kyle Fessler, a grower with the company, most plant
offerings are “years in the making.” “I would say that next year’s going to be very similar to this year,” he said. “We’re going to have a lot of sell-through, and if we do run out of items, we’ll to be able to ship and sub with others.” The company has been in a growth mode for the past two years, which has positioned it well to handle demand. “We’ve been bringing on new product lines, and we’re really focusing on ramping up those product lines, if not for ’21 but for the next three years,” Fessler said. “We have seen more requests from unexpected customers for material, so I think it could be a really positive ’21.” The true meaning of shortages With the knowledge that woody material takes years to bring to market, nursery buyers are already aware they may encounter shortages in 2021 — but what that means has to be carefully defined. It doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get plants. Hackney said, I think often times people use the term ‘plant shortage’ and it’s associated with the term, ‘outage.’ So when it’s said something is short on the market, it may just be short within the person’s perceived parameters of how they should buy it, what price it should be, the size it should be, based on what they’ve been able to purchase in the past. I think that there have been and will continue to be varietal shortages and size shortages … but I do think there will be plants that are close substitutions to what they are looking for, with a different or similar plant with similar growth habit. Just as an example, a customer called me looking for a 6-foot, 15-gallon Green Giant (arborvitae), and the only thing that’s on the market is a 5½-foot plant. That’s just one of the things that the nursery industry is going to have to deal with. According to Lonnee, 2021 bookings for Bailey are strong, and the company is doing its best to meet customer needs. She expects the market will be particularly tight for bare root trees, container crops, branded items, flowering shrubs and hedging. “I guess all of you who are staying at home want to hedge off the neighbors so that you don’t see them anymore while you’re out in your backyard, enjoying your new gardens,” she said. “We think that people are going to need to be flexible, maybe not only on varieties but sizes, and be open to what we call black pot varieties and non-branded varieties, over branded varieties.” Olsen said it’s often necessary to move customers “down the cycle” to a smaller and january 21 MNLA.BIZ
19
“
iStock.com/YinYang
NURSERY DEMAND
IT’S A TIME WHEN EXISTING RELATIONSHIPS WITH GROWERS IS GOING TO BE PARTICULARLY IMPORTANT FOR PLANT BUYERS, WHETHER THEY ARE RETAILERS, LANDSCAPERS OR OTHER.
younger plant. “If you don’t have a 5-gallon arb, you move them to a 3-gallon arb,” he said. According to Lonnee, the strong market may create some new opportunities for retailers or smaller growers. Geographically there are some areas of this country that can make up some plants a little quicker than some of us that live in the cold North can. And so whether it’s a bare root plant or a large hort liner or something like that, I think there are opportunities for that. I know a lot of retailers have become used to just-in-time shipping, turning their benches often and quickly, and bringing in more shipments, but maybe some of the mindset might have to change on that, whether it is potting up some of your own or just having some flexibility within different sizes or varieties. I think there are some opportunities out there to hopefully cover the demand that’s out there and that everybody can be successful this spring with getting the plants that they need. While the time of COVID-19 has increased 20
MNLA.BIZ january 21
demand for plants, it has also increased production and shipping costs. Freight is more expensive, and growers have had to implement protocols to keep their workers safe and their production humming along. That, of course, costs money. “We need to recapture that in our selling prices, so we’re pushing price increases as well,” Olsen said. Loyalty matters It’s a time when existing relationships with growers is going to be particularly important for plant buyers, whether they are retailers, landscapers or other. “It’s the first time I think in our history that we haven’t gone looking for new customers in a large way, where we’ve looked to take on a new chain or something like that,” Olsen said. “It’s just we don’t have the inventory to do it. We’re just taking care of our current group of clients. I think loyalty is so important in this industry.” Fessler said the same. “We always have an early order deadline, and then we do our
”
allocations in the fall for the spring,” he said. “And the first thing we try to do is take care of our loyal customers. If you received so much of this variety last year, then we try to at least match that if possible, and so we take care of our loyal customers, and then see what’s available for new inquiries.” The bottom line? Lonnee advised anyone buying plants for spring of 2021 to get on the phone, if they haven’t already. “It wouldn’t have been smart to wait for spring of ’21 to place an order for spring of ’21,” Lonnee said. “If you haven’t done it, I encourage you to make a phone call to your sales rep whether it’s our company or any of the other folks on the panel today.”
➽CURT KIPP is the director of publications and communications at the Oregon Association of Nurseries, and the editor of Digger magazine. can be reached at ckipp@oan.org.
Burnsville Overnight Loading 7 day a week Yard Opens at 11pm nightly Starting Nov. 29th Burnsville ONLY 3600 W Hwy 13 Burnsville, MN 55337 952-895-7408
4375 170th St. W Farmington, MN 55024 952-207-4456
www.rockhardmn.com
Bulk Salt Treated Salt Bagged Salt Salt Spreaders Shovels + We Deliver
BRIAN FERGASON, CPCU 651.635.2781 612.247.7346 Cell bfergason@maguireagency.com www.maguireagency.com 1970 Oakcrest Avenue, Suite 300 Roseville, MN 55113
We have Snow Event Hours. Call the Salt Hotline!
952-895-7408
SMSC
Organics Recycling Facility
SMSC ORGANICS RECYCLING FACILITY:
Residential and commercial landscaping all in one place. PRODUCTS OFFERED: Compost and Compost Blends Athletic Field and Golf Course Top Dressing MnDOT 3877 Topsoil Blends Formulation of Customized Product Blends Natural and Colored Mulch
SMSC Organics recycling facility
952.233.9191 • smscorf.com 1905 Mystic Lake Drive S, Shakopee, MN
MNLA FOUNDATION
Thank You to each of you that have supported the MNLA Foundation over this last fiscal year, September 1, 2019 to August 31, 2020. Your generous contributions enable us to continue to provide research information, scholarships, and career outreach that support the green industry in this region both now and into the future. Thank you for showing your dedication through your time and donations.
Individual and Company Donors All Seasons Services Amazon Smile Donations Arla Carmichiel Garden Tapestry Karl’s Landscaping Kimi Lao Tim Power Molly Rosenberg Mierow Landscapes North Metro Companies, LLC Peterson’s North Branch Mill, Inc. Sailer’s Greenhouses Shane’s Landscaping Stars and Stripes Lawn and Landscape, Inc. Thomas Frampton Memorials Jeanie Trousdale True Nature Design Waldoch Farm
College Progam Scholarship Sponsors
High School Progam Scholarship Sponsors
Bachman’s Wholesale Nursery & Hardscapes Bailey Nurseries, Inc. Countryside Gardens, Inc. Grove Nursery Center Heidi’s Lifestyle Gardens & GrowHaus Nursery and Garden Centre Hoffman & McNamara Nursery and Landscape Home Sown Gardens LLC Lynde Greenhouse & Nursery, Inc. Malmborg’s Garden Center and Greenhouse Natural Creations, Inc. Otten Brothers Garden Center & Landscaping Pleasant View Gardens, Inc. Robin D. Linder Memorial Scholarship Southview Design Tangletown Gardens LLC Wilson’s Nursery, Inc.
Landscape Renovations, Inc. Prescription Landscape, Inc. We’ve made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this list. If your information is incorrect, please contact the MNLA office at 651-633-4987 or mnla@mnla.biz.
Save the dates for these fun Foundation fundraisers! JULY 20, 2021
CRYSTAL LAKE GOLF CLUB LAKEVILLE, MN
SEPTEMBER 21, 2021
GAMES UNLIMITED HUDSON, WI
Improving the Environment by Investing in Research and Education
1813 LEXINGTON AVE. N | ROSEVILLE, MN 55113 | 651-633-4987 | FAX 651-633-4986 | MNLA@MNLA.BIZ | WWW.MNLAFOUNDATION.COM
Contributors to the Research & Workforce Development Partners Fund A great number of companies have shown their support by contributing ½ of 1% of their purchases at participating industry suppliers in the Partners Fund program. This investment into the industry’s future is greatly appreciated. 101 Market Abrahamson Nurseries Austin Lake Greenhouse Bachman’s Inc. Bailey Nursery Belt Line Properties Inc. Bergeson Nursery BFG Supply Company Biermeier Greenhouses, Inc. Biers Quality Nursery & Garden Center Buds & Duds Landscape LLC Cherry Greenhouse Clearwater Tree Farm LLC Coopers Landscaping Creative Concepts Contractors Cross Nurseries, Inc. Dennis Lamkin Design Elizabeth Herrington Designs Ely Flower & Seed Greenhouses Faribault Growers Forest & Floral Garden Center Gertens Greenworld Hammarlund Nursery, Inc. Hedberg Supply Hexum Peterson Services LLC Heidi’s Lifestyle Gardens and Growhaus Nursery & Garden Centre Highland Nursery, Inc. Hoffman & McNamara Nursery and Landscape Holasek Flower Power Garden Center/ Fred Holasek and Son, Inc. Home Sown Gardens LLC I&M Landscaping Nursery, Inc. Jacobson Construction Inc. JB Landscaping & Mowing LLC Jeff Schafer Landscaping JTD Acres
Knecht’s Nurseries & Landscaping, Inc. Lakeland Landscape & Nursery Lakeshore Gardens Landsburg Landscape Nursery, Inc. Landscape Renovations, Inc. Lawn and Landscape Gardens Lilydale Garden Center Lowes Creek Tree Farm Majestic Lawn & Landscape Malborg’s Garden Center Missinne Greenhouse and Landscape , Inc. Mom’s Design and Build Mother Earth Gardens Natural Landscape Minnesota Inc. No Mow No Snow Landscapes Inc. Northeast Tree Inc. Otten Bros. Garden Center and Landscaping Outdoor Dimensions LLC Pal Al Hardware Parkway Lawn Service Inc. Pletschers’ Greenhouse, Inc. Precision Outdoor Services LLC Premium Quality Trees PrInce Contracting LLC Prospect Hill Garden Cemter Redwood Falls Nursery Inc. River Creek Nursery, Inc. Sargent’s Landscape Nursery, Inc. Savanna Designs Inc. Schalow’s Nursery Schulte’s Greenhouse & Nursery, Inc. Spectrum Sales Stone Arch Landscapes, Inc. Sunbelt Sales Tangletown Gardens LLC TCO LLC Tending Your Garden Terraform Const Services Inc. Tonkadale, Inc. Wagner Greenhouses, Inc. Weis Landscaping & Design LLC West Lake Landscape Inc. Wilson’s Nursery, Inc. Winona Nursery Winter Greenhouse
PARTNERS FUND
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF THE GREEN INDUSTRY
You are encouraged to participate in the Research & Workforce Development Partners Fund at one of the participating suppliers recognized below. Your voluntary donation of ½ of 1% (0.5%) on your purchases is used by the MNLA Foundation to grow a brighter future for the industry. On an invoice totaling $1,000 at one of these suppliers, your contribution will be only $5.00. Your individual contribution is small, but collectively adds up to make a real difference! WHOLESALE NURSERY & HARDSCAPES
Your Trusted Partner
TM
L A N D S C A P E + M A S O N RY
Research for the Real World
Career Development & Promotion
Scholarships
2012 CHEV Y EXPRESS CARGO VAN 2012 CHEV Y EXPRESS CARGO VAN 2012 CHEV Y EXPRESS CARGO VAN
A WORK-READY A WORK-READY A WORK-READY INCENTIVE THAT INCENTIVE THAT INCENTIVE THAT WORKS WORKS HARD FOR YOU. WORKS HARD HARD FOR FOR YOU. YOU.
2012 CHEV Y SILVERADO 2012 CHEV Y SILVERADO 2012 CHEV Y SILVERADO
for CHASSIS CABS for CHASSIS CABS for CHASSIS CABS
$ TO $ 1,000UP CASH $1,000 UPFIT UPFIT CASH 1 UPFIT CASH 1,000 plus RETAILUPFIT OFFERCASH
1 1 1
750 plus RETAIL OFFER
plus RETAIL OFFER
for CUTAWAYS for CUTAWAYS for CUTAWAYS
$ $ 1,000 UPFIT CASH $1,000 UPFIT CASH CASH1 1,000 UPFIT plus RETAIL OFFERCASH
1,200
1 1 1
plus RETAIL OFFER plus RETAIL OFFER
for PICKUPS for PICKUPS for PICKUPS
SELECT FROM ONE OF FOUR ACCESSORY SELECT FROM ONE OF FOUR or ACCESSORY PACKAGES UPUP TO $1,095 TO $ OF FOUR ACCESSORY SELECT FROM ONE 1,095 or PACKAGES UP TO PACKAGES UP TO $1,095 or 1 1
1,000
$ $ UPFITCASH CASH $ 500 UPFIT $500 UPFIT CASH plus500 RETAIL OFFER UPFIT CASH plus RETAIL OFFER 1 1
plus RETAIL OFFER
Business Choice is designed for business owners who rely on their vehicles Business is designed for business owners who on their vehicles for their Choice day-to-day operations. It’s available withrely eligible Chevrolet Business Choice is designed for business owners who on their vehicles for their and day-to-day operations. It’ssuch available withrely eligible Chevrolet vehicles offers great incentives as valuable upfit equipment. for theirand day-to-day operations. It’ssuch available with eligible Chevrolet vehicles offers great incentives as valuable upfit equipment. Visit gmbusinesschoice.com today to see if you qualify. vehicles and offers great incentives such as valuable Visit gmbusinesschoice.com today to see if you qualify. upfit equipment. Visit gmbusinesschoice.com today to see if you qualify. 1 1 1
To qualify, vehicles must be used in day-to-day operations of your business and not solely for transportation purposes. Must provide proof of business. To qualify, vehicles must be used in day-to-day operations of your business and not solely for transportation purposes. Must provide proof of business. Visit gmbusinesschoice.com or your Chevrolet or GMC dealer for details. Take delivery by 9/30/12. Visit gmbusinesschoice.com or your Chevrolet or GMC dealer for details. Take delivery by 9/30/12. To qualify, vehicles must be used in day-to-day operations of your business and not solely for transportation purposes. Must provide proof of business. ©2012 General Motors Visit gmbusinesschoice.com or your Chevrolet or GMC dealer for details. Take delivery by 9/30/12. ©2012 General Motors ©2012 General Motors
Business Choice is designed for business owners who rely on their vehicles for their day-to-day operations. It’s available with eligible Chevrolet vehicles and offers great incentives such as valuable upfit equipment. Visit gmbusinesschoice.com today to see if you qualify. 302 302 302
www.jeffbelzerchevy.com Version # 4 Version # 4 Version # 4
Document Name GMC1-12-FCO-03178-302_v4.indd Document Name GMC1-12-FCO-03178-302_v4.inddLinked Graphics Art Director Control Document Name GMC1-12-FCO-03178-302_v4.indd 12KTFLCHEV032.tif Linked GraphicsRGB
Retail Planning Flyer Control Art Jarret Petsch •Mechjpetsch@jeffbelzer.com Scale 100 8.75”952-469-7063 x 11.25” Bleed Chevy CopyDirector Writer TBD
RGB
12KTFLCHEV032.tif RGB HD CC with Dump_psd.psd Linked GraphicsRGB Control Art Director 11CHSL00054.jpg RGB Mech TBD Copy Print Scale Scale 100 12KTFLCHEV032.tif RGB None BusinessCentral_KO.ai ProjWriter Mgr csenn HD CC with Dump_psd.psd RGB 11CHSL00054.jpg RGB Scale Please 100 GM_business_choice.ai TBD Copy Writer Jeff Belzer Lakeville,Mech MN. call the Commercial Department at 952-469-4444. Print Scale None BusinessCentral_KO.ai csenn Proj Stock None HD CC with Dump_psd.psd RGB Acct Mgr Svc kdenmark cube_0758.jpg RGB GM_business_choice.ai Print Scale Trim None 8.5” x 11” BusinessCentral_KO.ai csenn Proj Mgr Family_shot cube_exprss_slvrdo_a6.tif RGB All Rebates & incentives to dealer, must qualify for same, prices subject to change. Stock None Live None 8.25” x 10.75” kdenmark Acct Mgr Svc afinnan cube_0758.jpg RGB Folded Size Prod GM_business_choice.ai RoundStep_3in_Chevy_Silverado.jpg RGB Family_shot cube_exprss_slvrdo_a6.tif RGB Stock Live None 8.25” x 10.75” kdenmark Acct Svc cube_0758.jpg RGB Tonneau_Chevy.jpg RGB Folded Size None afinnan Mgr TBD 1 RoundStep_3in_Chevy_Silverado.jpg RGB Finishing Buyer To qualify, vehicles must be None used in day-to-day operations of your business and notArtProd solely for transportation purposes. Must provide Family_shot cube_exprss_slvrdo_a6.tif RGB Family_Option_a3.tif RGB Tonneau_Chevy.jpg RGB None Folded Size None afinnan ProdBuyer Mgr TBD RoundStep_3in_Chevy_Silverado.jpg RGB 4320G_cs.tif CMYK Finishing Art Family_Option_a3.tif RGB Colors Spec’d 4C TBD Copy Edit Visit gmbusinesschoice.com or your Chevrolet or GMC dealer for details. Tonneau_Chevy.jpg RGB 4320Gss.tif CMYK 4320G_cs.tif CMYK Finishing None TBD Art Buyer Colors Spec’d Family_Option_a3.tif RGB 4C TBD 1PROCS.tif CMYK Copy Edit nminieri/pm Mac with Business Central Special Instr. 4320Gss.tif CMYK 4320G_cs.tif CMYK 1PROSS.tif CMYK Colors Spec’d 1PROCS.tif CMYK 4C Business Central TBD CopyMac Edit nminieri/pm Special Instr. with 4320Gss.tif CMYK BasePkg_ss.tif CMYK Publications None 1PROSS.tif CMYK 1PROCS.tif CMYK 12KTFLCHEV021.tif RGB Mac nminieri/pm with Business Central Special Instr. None BasePkg_ss.tif CMYK Publications
CONTENT CONTENT CONTENT
Job Description 8.75” Chevy Retail Planning Flyer 11.25” Bleed Trim 8.5” x x11” 8.75” x 11.25” Chevrolet, 50Bleed & Cedar, Box 965, Trim Live 8.5” 8.25”x x11” 10.75”
Publications None
Colors In-Use Cyan Colors In-Use
Last Modified 4-17-2012 3:37 PM 4-17-2012 3:37 PMDate Last Modified Printer Output 4-17-2012 3:37 PMDate Last Modified TITAN 4-20-2012 1:48 PM Printer Output
User ma-klane User
John Zadurski 952-469-6818 • User jzadurski@jeffbelzer.com 4-20-2012 1:48Date PM Colors In-Use Printer Output
11CHSL00054.jpg
840 ppi 270 ppi 840 ppi 1089ppippi 270 840 ppi 1089 ppi 270 ppi 1089ppi, ppi461 ppi 464 1112 ppi461 ppi 464 ppi, 421 1112ppippi 464 ppi, 419 ppi ppi 461 ppi 421 1112ppi, ppi 844 419 ppi 1708 ppi 421 ppi 1006 ppi,1708 1004ppippi 844 ppi, 419 ppi 1418 ppi, 1004 1482 ppi ppi 1006 ppi, 844ppi, ppi,858 1708ppippi 860 1418 ppi, 1482 ppi 1006ppi, ppi,605 1004 ppi 606 860 ppi, 858 ppi ppi 1418ppi, ppi,820 1482 ppi 821 ppi 606 ppi, 605 ppi 860 ppi, 858 ppi 3169 ppi820 821 ppi, ppi 606 ppi, 2431 ppi 605 ppi 3169 ppi 821 ppi, 820 ppi 2431 ppi 3169 ppi 2431 ppi
1PROSS.tif 12KTFLCHEV033.tif 12KTFLCHEV021.tif BasePkg_ss.tif 12KTFLCHEV033.tif 12KTFLCHEV021.tif 12KTFLCHEV033.tif
CMYK RGB RGB CMYK RGB RGB RGB
Magenta Cyan Yellow Magenta Cyan Black Yellow Magenta Black Yellow Black
proof of business.
ma-klane Mechd By: nminieri ma-klane Mechd By: nminieri
TITANRTVd By: None TITANRTVd By: None
Mechd By: nminieri
RTVd By: None CD/ACD
COPYWRITER
CD/ACD
COPYWRITER
CD/ACD
COPYWRITER
ACCT SERVICE
PROD
4-20-2012 1:48 PM
AD AD
©2020AD General Motors COPY EDIT
BY SIGNING YOUR INITIALS ABOVE, YOU ARE STATING THAT YOU HAVE READ AND APPRO ACCT SERVICE PROD COPY EDIT VED THIS WORK. BY SIGNING YOUR INITIALS ABOVE, YOU ARE STATING THAT YOU HAVE READ AND APPRO ACCT SERVICE PROD COPY EDIT VED THIS WORK. BY SIGNING YOUR INITIALS ABOVE, YOU ARE STATING THAT YOU HAVE READ AND APPRO VED THIS WORK.
4-20-2012 1:48 PM4-20-2012 1:48 PM 4-20-2012 1:48 PM
Job # GMC1-12-03178 Job # GMC1-12-03178 Job Description Chevy Retail Planning Flyer JobJob #Description GMC1-12-03178
PROMASTER VANS IN STOCK! Vehicles ready for work at a moment’s notice. Professionals trained to keep business owners happy. Service facilities equipped for commercial applications.
2020 Ram Reg cab – Ready for Plow.
2020 Ram 5500 4x4’s, 108” c/a. Call for pricing.
2020 Ram 5500 120 c/a, 4x2. Call for pricing.
COMMERCIAL HEADQUARTERS Jeff Belzer Ram, 21111 Cedar Ave., Lakeville, MN Please Call the Commercial Dept, 952-469-4444 All Rebates & Incentives to Dealer, Must Qualify for Same, Prices Subject to Change Jarret Petsch 952-469-7063 jpetsch@jeffbelzer.com
John Zadurski 952-469-6818 jzadurski@jeffbelzer.com
VERSA-LOK
®
Contractor Sales Yards
VISIT VERSA-LOK MIDWEST AT NORTHERN GREEN VIRTUAL, JAN. 11-14
NEW FOR 2021!
Your locally owned headquarters for landscaping supplies and materials! • VERSA-LOK retaining wall systems • Willow Creek pavers and kits • Unilock pavers • Rosetta hardscapes • Porcelain landscape tiles • Decorative rock, mulch, natural stone, steps, wallstone, flagstone and more • Accessories, including lights, sealers, polymeric sand, edging and geogrid • Easy in/out yards with knowledgeable staff and convenient hours
Slatestone™ Smooth Pavers
SUPERSIZE YOUR WALL
Bronco 18H retaining wall system
BROOKLYN PARK (763) 488-1310
OAKDALE (651) 773-7444
BURNSVILLE (952) 894-4401
KIMBALL (320) 398-5415
FARIBAULT (507) 331-3198
VERSA-LOK-midwest.com
ONALASKA, WI (800) 770-4525
21 Typical Marketing Problems for
COMPANIES Â Chad Diller
iStock.com/nzphotonz
Landscape Leadership
january 21 MNLA.BIZ
27
MARKETING
$
Marketing problems at your lawn or landscaping company...they are plenty… Lack of brand awareness... Advertising/marketing campaigns that fall flat on their face. Frustrating relationships with marketing agencies... Unqualified leads...
That’s just the tip of the iceberg. Now before you spiral into depression, take solace in one reality. You aren’t alone....and that matters. The same challenges you are facing are more common amongst your lawn and landscape industry peers than you may realize. Why should that bring you hope? Because along with common problems comes proven solutions.
It turns out we all thought we were alone, but we’re not. Neither are you. So today, I decided to take some time and go back through my conversation notes with clients and prospects. I stopped at about a dozen and a half because the problems kept repeating. Yup, common problems. You shouldn’t feel stuck and alone. Knowing this is the starting point for change.
Power in Perspective Before I came to Landscape Leadership in 2016, my previous position of 13+ years was at a Top 100, 35+ year-old, full-service lawn and landscape company. As we tried to tackle some of our “unique” marketing challenges, I realized that they really weren’t that special as I talked to more and more industry peers. Those suspicions were further validated when I came to work here. Over the past four years at Landscape Leadership, I’ve participated in hundreds of conversations with lawn and landscape professionals just like you.
Most Common Landscaping & Lawn Care Marketing Problems As you read further through the problems I am about to identify, understand that these issues are often connected. As you go through these problems, keep track of how many apply to your company. Brand Identity Problems: What do you want to be when you grow up? Maybe the goal of your lawn or landscape company’s infancy was very different than today. You were in survival mode. You took whatever work you could. More revenue and more customers
Left: iStock.com/SpicyTruffel
NEWS & NOTES
28
MNLA.BIZ january 21
Find New Employees at CFANS Career Fair
Services in the College
with talented students
for established
by Handshake
of Food, Agricultural
seeking full-time
companies, $50 for
(https://app.
Employer registration
and Natural Resource
positions, part-
startups (companies
joinhandshake.com/
is open for the 2021
Sciences (CFANS)
time positions, and
under 3 years in
career_fairs/20963/
Virtual Environmental
and the College of
internships. Students
business) and a $300
employer_preview).
Internship & Career
Biological Sciences
from biological,
Gold Sponsorship
Upon registration,
Fair to be held
(CBS), the Fair will
environmental, and
is also available.
there is a review of the
9am - 3pm CST on
be held virtually
natural resource
The registration
details you submitted
Friday, February 5
this spring using
related disciplines
deadline is January
for approval. You will
at the University of
Handshake as the
are invited to attend
15, 2021. View details
be able to engage with
Minnesota! Hosted by
virtual platform. You
this Career Fair.
and register on
students in a variety
Career and Internship
will be able to network
Registration is $150
GoldPASS powered
of formats, including:
“
AS YOU READ FURTHER THROUGH THE PROBLEMS I AM ABOUT TO IDENTIFY, UNDERSTAND THAT THESE ISSUES ARE OFTEN CONNECTED. AS YOU GO THROUGH THESE PROBLEMS, KEEP TRACK OF HOW MANY APPLY TO YOUR COMPANY.
”
iStock.com/aurielaki
were your poor answers for everything. Or maybe now you’re making a strategic change for one reason or another. How many of these statements apply to your company? 1. Too often, people say that they’ve never heard of us. 2. Even when prospects have heard of us, they rarely realize we do _____. 3. We don’t seem to get many referrals from ______. 4. We can’t cross-sell other services because our customers don’t even know they exist. 5. Prospects mistakenly assume we wouldn’t do work for them. 6. Our marketing sometimes doesn’t clearly show what we do and who we do it for. 7. We stopped doing XX and have tried growing YY, but people still think we do XX. 8. Truthfully, our company looks fairly similar to our competitors. 9. Our customers love us, but our prospects wouldn’t know that when they look at our Google Reviews. You are not alone. These problems are all too common. Whether it was a client who wanted to add lawn care services or start installing pools, or one who wanted more
05 Video, audio, and
to create their own
EAB after federal
“Currently, 25 of
infested with EAB. Our
chat communication
unique schedule to
officials announced
Minnesota’s 87
efforts here have
with students, Group
engage with students.
deregulation of the
counties are infested
proven effective and
meetings with up to
Please contact Sharon
insect effective January
with emerald ash
it’s important we
fifty participants, and
Heron if you have any
14, 2021. Thirty-five
borer,” said Mark
continue this work.”
1:1 meetings. Up to
questions at sheron@
states, including
Abrahamson, director
100 representatives
umn.edu.
Minnesota, are
of the MDA’s Plant
New Members
infested with EAB. This
Protection Division.
BlueOx PM; Concept
led the USDA to
“That rate of spread
Landscaping; Manley
in the fair. Each
Minnesota Continues the Fight Against EAB
reevaluate its role and
across the state in 11
Gardening LLC; Olympic
representative you
Minnesota will
make this
years is 60% slower
Communications Inc.;
register will be able
continue regulation of
announcement.
than most states
TSE INC.
per employer are able to participate
january 21 MNLA.BIZ
29
MARKETING
MARKETING IS OFTEN A LITTLE EXPERIMENTATION TO SEE WHAT WORKS AND WHAT DOES NOT.
Illustrations both pages: iStock.com/SpicyTruffel
“
30
MNLA.BIZ january 21
”
referrals from local architects, or those who repositioned from residential work to commercial, we’ve heard all of these. Ineffective Marketing Campaigns Marketing is often a little experimentation to see what works and what does not. However, repeated failure is often rampant at lawn and landscape companies. Do any of these common problems sound familiar? 10. We spent _____ on this paid advertising campaign. I’m frustrated because we: a) Received very little (if any) leads from it. b) Generated leads but they were extremely expensive from an ROI perspective. 11. We really have no way to track if our marketing is working aside from just watching our revenue growth year-over-year. 12. I’m scared to try something new. While our results aren’t much, I know I can still count on a few leads here and there from these existing sources. 13. I pay an SEO agency _____ per month but I have no idea what they’re doing or if it’s working. 14. It seems we have wasted time/money developing _____. 15. We hired an in-house marketing person, but they really didn’t work out. 16. I feel like our marketing agency: a) Doesn’t really get lawn care or landscaping b) Just waits for us to tell them what to do c) Is difficult to deal with Frustrating? Yes. Unique challenges? Nope. You’re not alone. Even when you try your best to do your homework, these complaints are pretty standard. Whether it was the tree service owner worried about their 20 monthly, weak pay-per-click lawn care leads, or the lawn company who had no idea how much action their postcards generated, to the design/build contractor tired of people who want a $2k patio, we’ve seen all of these, too.
Lead Generation Problems Let’s just say that you’re feeling pretty good so far. You have a decent marketing strategy in place and maybe your vendor relationships are fairly solid. You’re even tracking a good portion of your expenses and some results. But leads do not equal success. Sometimes opportunities turn into a pile of disasters. Are any of these true? 17. I’m not completely clear on who our ideal customers are or how to get them. 18. We probably need to fire a good amount of customers. A good number of them aren’t who we really want to work with. 19. The leads we are getting are: a) Bargain shoppers b) Company hoppers c) Not likely to grow in customer value or refer us more work
d) Full of red flags and will probably make our lives miserable e) All of the above 20. We rely too heavily on word-of-mouth and don’t get enough leads through our website. 21. There are times of the year when the leads seem to completely dry-up. Aggravating? You betcha. Strange circumstances? Not at all. You’re not alone. Just getting leads isn’t the answer. You need the right ones to grow your business in the right way. Whether it was the lawn maintenance company that wanted less mowing-only customers and more-profitable lawn applications work, or the commercial landscape company who wanted to kill it on the HOA front and get away from bid-build work, this is all too familiar.
A Deeper Shade of Green Local Genetic Origins
Common Problems = Opportunities for Success You are not alone. How many of the 21 problems did you identify with? A lot? Good. Why? Because I have seen firsthand what happens when lawn and landscape company owners get sick and tired of stalling out, losing ground to their competitors, and wasting money. I hope this list of 21 common problems helps you to get fired up to do something about these problems. Demand more out of the marketing partners you’re working with. Make some tough decisions and a plan for your team to keep making improvements. ➽CHAD DILLER is Director of Client Success at Landscape Leadership, a sales and marketing agency for lawn, landscape and tree service companies. Find out more at www.landscapeleadership.com.
TM
Native Minnesota Woody & Herbaceous (651) 438-2771 • Fax (651) 438-3816
www.outbacknursery.com
Call us first for all your native planting needs january 21 MNLA.BIZ
31
Have you seen our JOB BOARD? Browse CAREERS in the menu, or go directly to MNLA.biz/careers.
EMPLOYERS:
PROFESSIONALS:
• PLACE your job in front of our highly qualified members
• POST a resume or anonymous career profile that leads employers to you
Find Your Next Great Hires
Keep Your Career on the Move
• SEARCH our resume database of qualified candidates
WWW.MNLA.BIZ
• MANAGE jobs and applicant activity right on our site • LIMIT applicants only to those who are qualified • FILL your jobs more quickly with great talent
• SEARCH and apply to hundreds of new jobs on the spot by using robust filters • SET UP efficient job alerts to deliver the latest jobs right to your inbox • ACCESS career resources, job searching tips and tools
WINTER IS HERE. DON’T GET CAUGHT IN THE COLD.
ECO-GUARD LIQUID ICE MELT Eco-Guard contains no Chlorides or Nitrogen, it is biodegradable and Potassium Acetate based. The product is approved by the FAA and used on taxiways/runways, municipal sidewalks, roads, bridges and parking lots. *Effective to -75º F depending on the amount of precipitation in the snow and number of applications of product. This product can be used as a preventative.
CALL YOUR TESSMAN REP FOR A QUOTE! FARGO, ND
610 39th Street N Fargo, ND 58102 Phone: (701) 232-7238
ST. PAUL, MN 1300 Slyvan Street St. Paul, MN 55117
Phone: (651) 487-3850
TEA, SD
46954 Mindy Street Tea, SD 57064 Phone: (605) 368-2586
Professional Development Opportunities in 2021 The sessions focus on personal development through key power skill topics, taught this way: • The concepts are taught first. • Then, the facilitators zero in on exercises that make the student aware of who they are and how they affect others. • Industry leaders are brought in to share their own personal development stories and company best practices. • Tools and tips are always offered that the students take away and can use immediately back at the work place. Some are even required “homework” between sessions. The Green Industry Leadership Institute will prepare your employee to take a stronger and more confident leadership role in your company. More information and an application form is at MNLA.biz/leadership.
M N
L
A
MENTORSHIP PROGR A M
QUESTIONS? Contact Jon Horsman 651-633-4987 jon@MNLA.biz
APPLICATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 21
Complete an application at MNLA.biz/mentorship. Deadline: Jan. 19
MNLA is introducing a new pilot program with the MNLA Mentorship Program. Mentoring can benefit both mentors and mentees by offering a framework upon which to build strong, mutually beneficial learning relationships. Both the mentor and the mentee will give and grow. The mentoring process occurs for a one-year time period beginning in January. Mentors and mentees will meet at least once a month in February, March, April and May, attend the end of program wrap-up event, and complete an experience/evaluation form.
• Enhance personal and professional development. • Increase and transfer industry knowledge in a changing workforce. • Help emerging and established companies to develop and grow their businesses. • Build deeper connections and trusted resources among industry professionals.
C
WHO | WHEN | WHERE | HOW
ER
TIFIE
D
MNLA CERTIFICATION
GOALS
HOW TO PREPARE: Business
AL
ONLINE STUDY CHAPTERS | PRACTICE TEST | PLANT I.D. WEBINAR
Look for these icons on our calendars:
�
N
O PR
WHEN AND WHERE ARE THE 2021 EXAMS? WHO IS ELIGIBLE? To register for the exam you must meet the following requirements: When: Feb. 5, 12, 19 and Mar. 5, 19, 26 • Have either two years of study in an accredited post-secondary nursery and/or Where: The MNLA Classroom landscape program that includes a structured internship, OR 1813 Lexington Ave. N, Roseville, MN 55113 • A minimum of 2,000 hours in nursery or landscape-related employment. Please note, only seven seats are available FE A signature of an educational advisor or work supervisor is required on the exam SSIO for each test date. Please apply early! registration form to verify completion of the prerequisite. THE EXAM is given in an electronic format with photos and videos and immediate results. It is a two-part exam: you must pass a Basic Knowledge Exam and a specialty of your choosing (Landscape, Garden Center or Grower) to become MNLA Certified. To maintain certification status, all individuals must compile at least 18 continuing education points every three years, and pay a $15 recertification fee. NOTE: The recertification process is now done online at www.MNLA.biz.
Members can also learn for free anytime on MNLA.biz!
� Skills Training
� Networking � Leadership Development
ONLINE EDUCATION
MASTER
CLASSES
NEW! Master Classes to occur in February and March, 2021. Watch NorthernGreen.org for more information and to register. 2. ONLINE EVENT: FAVORITE PLANTS FOR MINNESOTA GARDENS DATES: FEBRUARY 15 & 22
1. ONLINE EVENT: TECHNOLOGY AND THE GREEN INDUSTRY
1
Speakers from University of Minnesota: Maggie Reiter, Extension Educator in Turfgrass Chad Giblin, Dept. of Forest Resources Eric North, Extension Dept. of Forest Resources
2
Speaker from Texas A&M Turfgrass Management: Chase Straw, Department of Soil and Crop Sciences
DATE: FEBRUARY 10 There have been tremendous strides in user friendly technology all throughout the green industry. Gone are the days of putting a terra cotta worm in a pot to determine water needs. Now there is an abundance of moisture sensors and meters to easily capture that data and enhance irrigation efficiency. Coming to an end are the days of cutting down a tree to determine its health. Through the use of 21st century tools such as tomography a.k.a. “tree sonar” and resistograph in combination with more traditional methods, the ability to assess tree defects without cutting it down are becoming possible. This online class will focus on the technology available to industry practitioners and how it can benefit you and your career.
4. ONLINE EVENT: PESTICIDE RECERTIFICATION ZOOM WORKSHOP – CATEGORIES A & E, AND P DATE: FEBRUARY 26
4
3. ONLINE EVENT: GOING FROM GOOD TO GREAT: HARDSCAPE EFFICIENCY BOOT CAMP Speaker: Frank Bourque
3
What are the best performing plants for Minnesota gardens and landscapes? Spend 1 or 2 half days with us as we present a plethora of plants – from woody trees, shrubs and conifers, to herbaceous perennials, annuals and even houseplants – your speakers are all as cold hardy as the plants and each will cover their top ten favorite performing plants in their category.
Pending approval by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, this workshop meets Commercial Pesticide Applicator Requirements for Category A (Core) and Category E (Turf and Ornamentals). Recertification for optional Category P (Vertebrate Pest) will also be offered as part of this workshop.
DATE: FEBRUARY 17
Great companies use key performance indicators (KPIs) to gauge and compare performance for meeting strategic and operational goals. However, the hardscape industry as a whole lacks objective benchmarks or a way to measure excellence across the industry. The aim of this seminar is to outline simple KPIs that companies of all sizes can start capturing today by using systems, processes, and technology that digitizes this information and collects it in a central area. The comprehensive analysis of this data will help improve processes and lead to better performance and project delivery.
5
In this online Boot Camp, you will learn 7 key KPIs to track in your business to motivate your teams and significantly increase your business efficiency and profits.
Generously supported by:
TM
5. ELECTRICAL TROUBLESHOOTING AND ADVANCED WIRING: PLT RELICENSURE DATE: MARCH 4 LOCATION: LOST SPUR GOLF & EVENT CENTER, 2750 SIBLEY MEMORIAL HWY, EAGAN, MN 55121 Pending Minnesota Dept. of Labor & Industry approval, this class satisfies eight hours of continuing education requirements for the Power Limited Training Licensure, including two hours of code and six hours of technical training oriented specifically toward the landscape industry.
LEGAL ISSUES
What Makes a Good Contract? Patrick McGuiness,
“Will you look at my contracts and make sure they are good?” This is one of the most
Zlimen & McGuiness PLLC
common requests contractors have for the attorneys in our law office. So, what does a good contract look like? Every contract is different and what works for some industries may not work in others. However, generally speaking, there are a number of things which should be addressed in every contract. What follows is a list of those topics as well as questions you should ask yourself when writing the contract.
Scope of Work: What will you be doing for the customer? What type of project is it? Be specific. The scope of work for each contract should be different and apply specifically to the customer you are working with. Let us use a patio as an example. If you are going to be installing Holland pavers, state that in this part of the contract. Better yet, state which manufacturer will be making the pavers, and what color choice you have agreed upon with the customer. Will you be basing the installation on a landscape plan? If so, reference the plan. Will there be a soldier course? How about sand? Will you be using regular sand or polymeric sand? As you can see, there are many details which may seem inconsequential now, but could be important later. Writing it all out at the beginning will protect you from “He said, she said” later, if the project breaks down. Timing: When will you start the job? How long will it take? When will you finish? Exact dates do not need to be assigned for these things, but timing should still be addressed. Also, delays can and do occur, so a general statement allowing for reasonable delays is a good idea.
36
MNLA.BIZ january 21
Change Order Clause: This clause is an agreement within the contract stating that it cannot be modified without the written consent of both parties. Once you put this clause in a contract, you need to start using change orders. Get a written change order form that can easily be filled out on site by the foreman and have them get the property owner's signature for changes. Permits and Utilities: Are there any permits necessary to do the job? If so, who will be responsible for getting and paying for them? You should also address utility locations. Who is responsible for marking utilities, specifically the ones that Gopher State One Call doesn’t mark like low voltage lighting lines, irrigation lines, invisible fencing, etc? Make sure to address these items so that you are protected later if you happen to find an unmarked irrigation line. Cleanup: Is that included in the cost of the project? Are you going to fill in & re-sod the ruts from the skid steer, or do you just seed them? Make everything as clear as possible so that there aren’t questions about what was agreed to. Money & Payments: How much are you charging the customer? Is that total subject to change if you run into problems or other issues? How much of a down payment is required to start work? Will there be a schedule of payments along the way, or will the remainder be paid once work is finished? If you are going to charge late fees, interest, or other collections
COMMERCIAL TRUCK YEAR-END CLEARANCE! 2019 Cab Chassis Models
WE DELIVER! #1
Commercial Dealer in Minnesota
Contact Alex Dachel for estimates: 651-777-1316, or email: adachel@furymotors.com
iStock.com/fizkes
LEGAL ISSUES
costs such as attorney’s fees, that needs to be in writing as a part of your contract. Warranties: What type of warranty do you provide with your work? Chances are that plants are guaranteed, but for how long and under what conditions will you replace them free of charge? How about warranties for hardscape work? How long is the work warranted for, and under what conditions will the warranty apply?
BRINE/DE-ICER 200 or 300 gal
BRINE/DE-ICER
BRINE/DE-ICER
500, 750, or 1000 gal
1300 gal
SKID UNIT
DUAL SKID UNIT
TREE SERVICE
30, 50, 100, 150, 200, or 300 gal
30, 50, 100, 150, 200, or 300 gal
Tank size options
NURSE TRAILERS
TRAILERS
1005, 1065, or 1300 gal
30, 55, 85, 100, 200, or 300 gal
THREE POINT
THREE POINT MISTER
55, 110, 200, 300, or 400 gal
40, 60, or 100 gal
UTV
50, 68, or 110 gal
ULTRA LOW PROFILE
Pre-Lien Notice: If you are not paid for your work, placing a mechanics lien on the property is a good way to help you get paid. There is specific language provided by Minnesota law which must be delivered to a customer in order for the contractor to later place a lien on the property. One of the best ways to deliver this notice to the customer is by putting it in the language of your contract. Dispute Resolution: What happens if there is a disagreement during or after the project? Will it be handled by mediation, arbitration, or in court? Who is responsible for paying the costs involved? Other items: There are many other things that help make a good contract depending on the type and size of the project. Most notably, make sure the contract is written in plain language to minimize misinterpretation. The subjects discussed here were just a general overview of topics which are important for a contract.
50, 68, or 110 gal
âž˝ THIS ARTICLE PROVIDES general information on contract & business matters and should not be relied upon as legal advice. A qualified attorney must analyze all relevant facts and apply the applicable law to any matter PEST CONTROL
SPACE SAVER
VIEW-SAVER
before legal advice can be given. If you would like more information regarding contracts, mechanics liens, or other issues, please contact Patrick McGuiness at Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC at 651-331-6500 or pmcguiness@zmattorneys.com
38
MNLA.BIZ january 21
Loaders and snow attachments: Angle broom, scraper, v-blade, pusher, blade, snowblower
Top selling Toro dealer Full line of snowblowers Huge inventory Fleet Quantity Discounts
Compact, lightweight, articulated steering, telescopic boom, snow attachments Authorized dealer for the snow containment system - a seamless transition from snow plow to box pusher!
We RENT loaders and attachments for the season! Call for a quote on the equipment you need.
SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS • PARTS
www.tristatebobcat.com
1200 Highway 13 East 71 Minnesota Avenue Hwy. 13 and 12th Ave Hwy. 36 and Rice Street Burnsville, MN 55337 Little Canada, MN 55117 952-894-0894 651-407-3727 588 Outpost Circle I-94 and Hwy. 12 Hudson, WI 54016 715-531-0801
AUCTION SURPLUS AUCTION
Go Go Green. Green. Clean Clean your your space. space. Save Save on on taxes. taxes. Help Help others. others. WHY WHY • No admission nor RSVP • No admission nor RSVP required. required. • Donate & receive a charitable • Donate & receive a charitable donation tax receipt. donation tax receipt. • Clear the clutter in your shop, • Clear the clutter in your shop, garage, home and office. garage, home and office. • Donations can be delivered to • Donations can be delivered to the auction site ANY TIME! the auction site ANY TIME! • Items that may not sell from • Items that may not sell from the Live Auction, have a the Live Auction, have a double opportunity to be double opportunity to be sold at other Fahey auctions. sold at other Fahey auctions. EVERYTHING WITH VALUE SELLS EVERYTHING WITH VALUE SELLS
and benefits the Foundation and benefits the Foundation fundraiser. fundraiser.
WHAT WHAT
WHERE WHERE
HOW HOW
• Equipment: trucks, trailers, • Equipment: trucks, trailers, landscaping/nursery equip., landscaping/nursery equip., attachments, new or slightly attachments, new or slightly used tires. used tires. • Medium to Small Trees/Shrubs • Medium to Small Trees/Shrubs (call for a plant material (call for a plant material application). application). • Landscape/Nursery Supplies: • Landscape/Nursery Supplies: pallets of pavers, irrigation pallets of pavers, irrigation supplies. supplies. • Hard Goods: tools, lumber. • Hard Goods: tools, lumber. • Office Equipment: computers, • Office Equipment: computers, printers, copy machines, printers, copy machines, desks, tables. desks, tables. • Personal Recreation Goods: • Personal Recreation Goods: boats, docks, guns, hunting boats, docks, guns, hunting and fishing equip., campers, and fishing equip., campers, cars, patio furniture, grills, cars, patio furniture, grills, vacation homes. vacation homes.
MNLA Foundation is pleased to MNLA Foundation is pleased to partner with MNLA member, partner with MNLA member, Fahey Sales Auctioneers & Fahey Sales Auctioneers & Appraisers, to help us raise funds Appraisers, to help us raise funds that improve your business. For that improve your business. For more information about Fahey more information about Fahey and auction dates, visit www. and auction dates, visit www. faheysales.com. faheysales.com.
Bring your donations to the Bring your donations to the Fahey auction site. Let the Fahey Fahey auction site. Let the Fahey staff know it is a donation to the staff know it is a donation to the MNLA Foundation. Nursery MNLA Foundation. Nursery materials may be sold from your materials may be sold from your business; contact MNLA for a business; contact MNLA for a plant material application. After plant material application. After the items are sold, MNLA the items are sold, MNLA Foundation will send you a Foundation will send you a charitable tax-deductible receipt charitable tax-deductible receipt for your donation and mention for your donation and mention your business in the Scoop your business in the Scoop magazine thanking for your magazine thanking for your support. support.
Foundation Surplus Auction Scoop half-page.indd 1
SNOW ANDICE
Fahey Auction Complex Fahey Auction Complex
2910 9th Street East 2910 9th Street East (Hwy 212 East) (Hwy 212 East) Glencoe, MN 55336 Glencoe, MN 55336 (40 miles west of Minneapolis) (40 miles west of Minneapolis)
12/4/2019 11:27:49 AM
CONTROL STAINLESS STEEL & POLY HOPPER SPREADERS
877-888-9215
westerndealers.com
TRUCK BED SPREADERS • TAILGATE SPREADERS • UTV SPREADERS • WALK-BEHIND SPREADERS 40
MNLA.BIZ january 21
THE
Virtual TRADE SHOW GOES ON...
It’s a new year with a new resource for your business! The 2021 Northern Green Virtual Trade Show is accessible until September 1, 2021 via desktop, tablet, or mobile phone.
List BROWSABLE & SEARCHABLE
BY COMPANY, PERSON OR KEYWORD
�
◎
INTERACTIVE EXHIBITS
ALL YOUR FAVORITE VENDORS IN ONE PLACE AT ONE TIME
WITH VIDEOS AND OTHER RESOURCES
WHAT WILL I SEE ON BOOTH PAGES? Exhibitor Page Features 1 Company description
1 4
2
2 Searchable tags & links to company pages 3 Videos
3
4 View booth staff and find contact information 5
5 Download the exhibitor's materials
Special thanks to our generous Northern Green 2021 sponsors:
WHOLESALE NURSERY & HARDSCAPES
Your Trusted Partner
MNLA FOUNDATION
2020–2021 Collegiate Scholarship Winners NICOLE ARACHTINGI
RHONDA FRISCH
Sponsored by: Otten Brothers Garden Center &
Sponsored by: Home Sown Gardens LLC
Landscaping
School: Rochester Community and Technical
School: Hennepin Technical College
College
Major: Horticulture/Landscape Design &
Major: Horticulture
Greenhouse Management
Expected Graduation: 2021
Expected Graduation: 2020
Future Plans: I plan to work in the nursery
Future Plans: I want to work with plants in an
industry to gain experience before launching my
indoor setting, or working in the floral industry
own business in propagation.
where creativity and passion collide to teach joy to other people.
NATHAN BOROWSKI
HOPE HAGERTY
Sponsored by: Fred Holasek & Son Greenhouse
Sponsored by: Fred Holasek & Son Greenhouse
School: University of Wisconsin-River Falls
School: North Dakota State University
Major: Horticulture
Major: Horticulture - Urban Forestry and Park
Expected Graduation: 2021
Management
Future Plans: I continue to learn and I am
Expected Graduation: 2022
considering getting my Masters degree. My goal
Future Plans: I plan on becoming an Arborist and
would be running my own greenhouse business. I
working within an urban environment. I want to
would like find a career in either horticulture
own a plant store on the side and I would love to
marketing, landscape design or greenhouse
publish books using my science knowledge and
production and teaching through my experience.
to advocate for the environment.
CASSIE CIBUZAR
CHELSEA HALL
Sponsored by: Malmborg’s Garden Center and
Sponsored by: Wilson’s Nursery, Inc.
Greenhouse
School: Hennepin Technical College
School: Hennepin Technical College
Major: Horticulture/Landscape Design/Manage-
Major: Greenhouse Management Technician
ment
Expected Graduation: 2021
Expected Graduation: 2021
Future Plans: My future plans after graduating is
Future Plans: I have worked as a Detail Crew
to find a job in the green industry surrounded by
Leader for a major landscape company. I have
people who I can learn from. Whether I’d start out
also recently started my own landscaping
doing invasive removal, or working in a green-
company and have a working contract with a
house for a strong company. Additionally, I’d love
commercial real estate company doing Garden
to be an advocate for environmental health.
Maintenance, along with working on residential.
AARON DAUGHETEE
MEGAN HESSEH
Sponsored by: Bailey Nurseries, Inc.
Sponsored by: Tangletown Gardens LLC
School: Iowa State University
School: Hennepin Technical College
Major: Horticulture - Greenhouse Production
Major: Landscape Horticulture/Greenhouse
Expected Graduation: 2021
Management
Future Plans: I hope to find employment
Expected Graduation: 2021
opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. My
Future Plans: After graduation I hope to get a job
interests range from plug and seedling produc-
in landscape design, and I would also like to have
tion, hydroponics, and growing mushrooms. My
my own small greenhouse that I can care for my
main interest is the nursery production of natives
own plants on the side and do different
with a focus on regeneration. I plan on pursuing
experiments with.
my Master’s degree.
42
MNLA.BIZ january 21
202–2021 Collegiate Scholarship Winners QUINN JOHNSON
BETHANY KOZICKI
Sponsored by: Robin D. Linder Memorial
Sponsored by: Southview Design
Scholarship
School: Hennepin Techncial College
School: University of Minnesota - CFANS
Major: Landscape Design and Construction,
Major: Plant Science
Horticulture, Greenhouse Management
Expected Graduation: 2021
Expected Graduation: 2020
Future Plans: I plan to apply for graduate school
Future Plans: After graduation, I plan continuing
to continue studying plants and become a plant
to seek opportunities where I can learn more
scientist! I cannot see myself being in any other
about the green industry while gaining experi-
industry.
ence with design.
SARA JUNGE
DANTE LANGMADE
Sponsored by: Otten Brothers Garden Center and
Sponsored by: Natural Creations, Inc.
Landscaping
School: Hennepin Technical College
School: Hennepin Technincal College
Major: Landscape Design and Construction,
Major: Horticulture
Horticulture, Greenhouse Management
Expected Graduation: 2021
Expected Graduation: 2021
Future Plans: I’m looking forward to helping
Future Plans: I will work as a landscape designer
others through gardening. Perhaps partnering
for Tracer Landscape and Concrete. I am very
with organizations that address food access via
excited to get started in 2021! I will also have my
community gardening and growing programs.
own greenhouse to do personal research and work on pet plant projects, which hopefully will produce new data or new plant varieties for the industry.
EMILY KATH
BENJAMIN LEHMAN
Sponsored by: Southview Design
Sponsored by: Wilson’s Nursery, Inc.
School: North Dakota State University
School: University of Minnesota - CFANS
Major: Horticulture
Major: Horticulture
Expected Graduation: 2021
Expected Graduation: 2021
Future Plans: I plan to grow and expand the
Future Plans: I plan to work primarily in the plant
landscaping business my brother and I started up
conservation industry focusing on restoring
a few years ago. Also, I would like to eventually
Minnesota’s prairies and wetlands! I am also
open my own greenhouse.
interested in serving in the Peace Corps as an opportunity to travel and see agricultural systems outside of the country!
EMILY KOLBE
QUINN MATHISEN
Sponsored by: Heidi's Lifestyle Gardens &
Sponsored by: Robin D. Linder Memorial
Growhaus Garden Centre
Scholarship
School: University of Wisconsin-River Falls
School: Central Lakes College
Major: Horticulture
Major: Sustainable Landscaping
Expected Graduation: 2021
Expected Graduation: 2022
Future Plans: I am going to continue my
Future Plans: I plan to live in the Brainerd lakes
education in graduate school. After receiving my
area, and continue to grow my green industry
Ph. D in plant breeding and genetics, I plan to
business. I hope to own and manage a lawn care,
enter the world of academia as a professor and
landscaping, and snow management business
teach future horticulture students while also
that serves the outdoor needs of people in the
breeding roses and conducting research.
area.
january 21 MNLA.BIZ
43
MNLA FOUNDATION
2020–2021 Collegiate Scholarship Winners GRAHAM MONTEE
HAYDEN STECKER
Sponsored by: Hoffman & McNamara Nursery and
Sponsored by: Countryside Gardens, Inc.
Landscape
School: University of Wisconsin-River Falls
School: University of Wisconsin-River Falls
Major: Horticulture
Major: Horticulture
Expected Graduation: 2022
Expected Graduation: 2023
Future Plans: I plan on working in the green
Future Plans: I am planning on being a grower for a
industry no matter where that takes me. I hope to
large-scale nursery in the Midwest that supplies to
get involved in many different aspects and
many different stores. A bit further down the road
positions of the green industry. My end goal
I would love to start growing my own Hops and
would be to oversee greenhouse production.
open a brewery somewhere in Wisconsin, which has been a dream of mine for the past couple years. LEAH REZAC
ZENA THOMAS
Sponsored by: Lynde Greenhouse & Nursery, Inc.
Sponsored by: Robin D. Linder Memorial
School: Hennepin Technical College
Scholarship
Major: Greenhouse Management
School: University of Wisconsin-River Falls
Expected Graduation: 2022
Major: Horticulture
Future Plans: My goal is to start a non-profit
Expected Graduation: 2023
organization centered around providing produce
Future Plans: I am interested in working in a
for those who are underprivileged and teach
greenhouse or nursery. Additionally, I have taken
others how they can grow food for themselves
classes and am interested in sustainable
and start gardens in various spaces.
landscape design.
LEAH SHERIDAN
JILLIAN TURBEVILLE
Sponsored by: Heidi's Lifestyle Gardens &
Sponsored by: Bailey Nurseries, Inc.
Growhaus Garden Centre
School: University of Wisconsin-River Falls
School: Hennepin Technical College
Major: Horticulture
Major: Landscape/Horticulture & Greenhouse
Expected Graduation: 2022
Management
Future Plans: I plan to transfer into a graduate
Expected Graduation: 2020
program to complete a Master’s degree in plant
Future Plans: After graduation I plan to continue
genetics. I would like the opportunity in my
to work for Heidi at Growhaus as her Assistant
future career to innovate and push the boundar-
Grower, and to keep learning and improving my
ies of our current knowledge in plant science. I
skills. Looking forward to what the future holds!
am inspired by the future of the green industry and the ability to uniquely make an impact.
KYLE SIM
MEGAN VOLKER
Sponsored by: Pleasant View Gardens, Inc.
Sponsored by: Countryside Gardens, Inc.
School: Rochester Community and Technical
School: Hennepin Techncial College
College
Major: Greenhouse Management
Major: Horticulture Science
Expected Graduation: 2021
Expected Graduation: 2021
Future Plans: I plan to eventually own my own
Future Plans: I am a life-long learner and will
business as a wholesale cut flower grower and
continue to seek to learn more about Landscape
designer. I believe there is a demand and support
Management, and start my own landscaping
for locally sourced plants and flowers and am
business. I am currently working with perennial
interested in providing those products to my
plant production department at Sargent’s
community.
Nursery.
44
MNLA.BIZ january 21
nativE Plants MN Dept of Ag. approved plant production “pollinator friendly”
Wildflowers, Grasses, Sedges, Rushes & Ferns
2020–2021 Collegiate Scholarship Winners
Wholesale native plants in 4” pots or economy plugs for larger projects.
NeW! Some of our natives will now be available in jumbo square pots throughout the growing season. All native plants are tagged and bar-coded for retail sales.
MARINA WILEY Sponsored by: Hoffman & McNamara Nursery and Landscape School: University of Minnesota-Crookston Major: Horticulture Expected Graduation: 2021 Future Plans: After college, I hope to find a position as an assistant grower and work my way up to become a lead grower. My goal after I learn the ins and outs of growing is to open up my own flower farm and sell cut flowers to floral shops across the US.
BEN ZIEGLER Sponsored by: Bailey Nurseries, Inc. School: University of Minnesota - CFANS Major: Plant Science Expected Graduation: 2021 Future Plans: I hope to work in the Twin Cities in any of a number of fields including: plant
WHOlEsalE
BEdding Plants
Annuals, Baskets, Herbs, Vegetable Plants & Certified Organic Plants also available. Wholesale Minnesota hardy perennials in 18 count trays. Special order perennial 32 count trays are also available. All plants are individually tagged for resale with color photo tags.
All of our plants are produced with sustainable, bee-friendly practices. Greenhouse 25132 250th Ave. Glenwood, MN 56334 Phone: 320.634.0136 Fax: 320.634.3931 email: glacridgegrowers@aol.com Website: www.glacialridgegrowers.com
Early OrdEr discOunts cOntact us fOr a frEE catalOg
conservation, public garden management, local agronomic seed production, hemp research, or developing disease resistant and cold tolerant stone fruit and currants.
THE MNLA FOUNDATION PARTNERED WITH 16 MEMBER COMPANIES TO PRESENT 26 COLLEGIATE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR THE 2020–2021 SCHOOL YEAR. THANK YOU MEMBERS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
This year’s High School Scholarship awards will be given out at the end of May 2021. Students will be invited to attend the Green Industry Awards Celebration at Northern Green in January 2022. Thank you to the 2020-2021 High School Scholarship Sponsors: Gertens, Hoffman & McNamara Nursery & Landscape; Landscape Renovations, Inc.; and Prescription Landscape.
january 21 MNLA.BIZ
45
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
Virtual Advocacy in 2021 Forrest Cyr
MNLA Director of Government Affairs
On February 1, 2021, Day on the Hill is Virtual! Mark Your Calendars! In 2021, the Minnesota Legislature convenes for a legislative session like no other. With many new faces joining the
Minnesota House and the Minnesota Senate following the 2020 election, the restrictions placed on in-person, face-to-face legislative work due to COVID-19 pandemic present the legislature with many challenges to overcome. With the obvious challenges of conducting legislative proceedings over Zoom in mind, the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association (MNLA) continues to pursue policy victories for the benefit of MNLA members and the Green Industry in Minnesota. Despite the new digital venue for the legislature and for industry advocacy, one thing remains consistent with previous years: grassroots action and member involvement in MNLA’s Government Affairs Program is vital to the success of the program. To facilitate this crucial grassroots involvement, MNLA has a slate of virtual advocacy events for members to learn, grow, and educate on issues central to business success in the Minnesota Green Industry. During the normal course of the year, MNLA’s Day on the Hill sees MNLA members join industry lobbyists at the Capitol to advocate for bills and connect with the members of the House and the Senate that represent them and their businesses. This year, of course, it is not possible to hold this kind of event. However, Day on the Hill will be virtual! On February 1, 2021, join your fellow members and members of the Minnesota Legislature to hear from MNLA staff and volunteer
leaders about the latest from the Capitol, the importance of the work being done, and how you can make a difference and grow results in government affairs. Additionally, at Northern Green Virtual, MNLA is working to host three separate policy webinars covering important topics to the industry, with leaders from the House and the Senate joining MNLA staff to discuss ongoing work in the areas of labor policy, pesticide and agriculture policy, and the ongoing work of the legislature on water issues in the state. As an attendee of Northern Green, these events are fantastic ways to get up-to-speed on what your representatives are doing in Saint Paul (or virtually!). On your Northern Green page, find the Legislative Action Center for more details about these events. The COVID-19 pandemic is changing the way we approach many things, and conducting legislative affairs, lobbying, and grassroots mobilization is no different. However, we are ready to adapt and seize opportunities to increase the visibility and impact of our industry in the public policy sphere within this new framework. With the House of Representatives conducting its business entirely remotely, and the Minnesota Senate will have some restrictions on in-person meetings, we must. However, to fully maximize the impact of our work, we need you! Register for Virtual Day of the Hill today at www.mnla. biz/events, or call me at 612-248-4463. We look forward to seeing you online!
➽ TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW YOUR INVOLVEMENT IN ADVOCACY can help your business and the green industry in Minnesota, contact Forrest Cyr at forrest@mnla.biz, or visit www.mnla.biz.
46
MNLA.BIZ january 21
2021 GREEN INDUSTRY DAY ON THE HILL February 1st, 2021
Day on the Hill 2021 is Virtual! Register Today. MNLA is hosting a legislative webinar to elevate industry issues and educate members and legislators about policy priorities of the Minnesota Green Industry. This virtual MNLA legislative webinar enables members to connect with legislators, learn about industry priorities, and educate elected officials on the Green Industry’s legislative priorities in 2021. Register today!
Monday, February 1, 2021 Zoom Webinar at 5:00 pm
Be sure to register ASAP! The event is just around the corner.
Registrations can be submitted electronically by visiting the Day on the Hill event page on the MNLA.biz event calendar.
We look forward to advocating alongside you to grow results in government affairs! Thanks to our MNLA Government Affairs Program Sponsor:
0%
for 60
MONTHS
ON NEW CAT COMPACT EQUIPMENT ®
ELIGIBLE MACHINES: Skid Steer Loaders, Mini Excavators, Compact Track Loaders, Compact Wheel Loaders (903 – 920)
LEARN MORE: www.zieglercat.com/specials Offer valid through January 31, 2021. Financing and published rate terms are subject to credit approval through Cat Financial for customers who qualify. Buyers are not guaranteed to qualify. Higher rates may apply for buyers with lower credit rating or qualifications. Flexible payment terms available to those who qualify. Offer cannot be combined with any other offers. Offer subject to machine availability. Offer may change without prior notice and additional terms and conditions may apply.