The Growing Concern April 2019 by Sandy Munley

Growing Concern

The

AP R I L 2 0 1 9

A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E O H I O L A N D S C A P E A S S O C I AT I O N

OLA Education Series: Safety Training Day April 11, 2019 / Cuyahoga Community College - East

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PR ES I DEN T’S COLUM N

ADAM CAPICCIONI Ohio CAT

ON YOUR MARK, GET SET, GO! Spring is in the air! Bulbs are starting to peak out of the ground, trees are beginning to bud, and those in the landscape profession are preparing for yet another busy season ahead. Many business owners will take this time to reflect on decisions yet to be made, pondering how they will grow their businesses and find success in the upcoming year. In conversations I have with our members, we broach this topic more and more, discussing their strategies and ideas for improving the process. I must admit, it’s been quite some time since I’ve run a business in this profession, and I’m quickly realizing how the process has changed and continues to evolve at a very rapid pace. In talking, I often pose questions to our members regarding their current business concerns. As you may guess, I expected to hear stories related to the loss of cash flow, employee retention, the fear of expanding a business at a pace that is not manageable, or the need to wear too many hats at once. And, while all of these issues are of concern, what I have found to be at the forefront of numerous business strategies is the drive to implement a comprehensive marketing plan.

In today’s technological age, a simple Google search can pull up an extensive list of landscape professionals performing almost any service under the sun. List in hand; consumers can then utilize numerous websites that rate these companies, inclusive of reviews that drill down into topics such as quality of work, customer service and response times. Though all potential customers want quick response times and accessibility, many may choose a company strictly based on a better star review, continued on page 6 The Growing Concern | April 2019 | 3

TAB LE OF CON TEN TS A P R I L 2 0 1 9 WWW. OH I OLA N D SCA P E R S. OR G OH I O’ S P R OF E SSI ON AL G REEN I N D UST R Y A SSOCI AT I O N OHIO LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION 9240 Broadview Road Broadview Heights, Ohio 44147 Phone: 440.717.0002, or 1.800.335.6521 Fax: 440.717.0004 Web: www.ohiolandscapers.org and www.myohiolandscape.com DESIGNER / EDITOR Rick Doll, Jr. REGULAR WRITERS Adam Capiccioni, Ohio CAT Michael J. Donnellan, King Financial, Inc. Jim Funai, LIC, Cuyahoga Community College Shelly Funai, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens Sandy Munley, Ohio Landscape Association Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, Bobbie’s Green Thumb COVER: Landscape Ohio! Awards Honor Award winner, Rice’s Landscapes Redefined, for their entry in the category of Commercial Maintenance. See page 17 for a complete list of this year’s winners.

FEATURES

3 PRESIDENT’S COLUMN On Your Mark, Get Set, Go!

5 WELCOME NEW MEMBERS 8 PERENNIAL FOCUS

lberis Sempervirens: Evergreen Candytuft

12 FISCAL FITNESS

IRA Last-Minute Tax Savings

ADVERTISING INFORMATION Submission deadline: 10th of the month, prior to the month of publication. For advertising rates and ad specs, please call 440.717.0002, 1.800.335.6521, or email Rick Doll Jr. at rick@ohiolandscapers.org. DISCLAIMER The Ohio Landscape Association, its board of directors, staff and the editor of The Growing Concern neither endorse any product(s) or attests to the validity of any statements made about products mentioned in this, past or subsequent issues of this publication. Similarly, the opinions expressed in The Growing Concern are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Ohio Landscape Association.

17 2018 LANDSCAPE OHIO! AWARDS This Year’s Winners

OFFICERS President Adam Capiccioni

OLA STAFF Executive Director Sandy Munley

24 FOR SAFETY SAKE

President – Elect Domenic Lauria

28 PLANT OF THE MONTH

Treasurer Brian Maurer, LIC

Communications & Events Manager Rick Doll, Jr.

New Employee Safety: What You Need to Know Vinca Minor: Myrtle

33 FEATURE ARTICLE

The Benefits of Vehicle Tracking

38 DIRECTIONS 39 ADVERTISING INDEX 4 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Immediate Past President Marie McConnell DIRECTORS Doug Ellis James Funai, LIC Philip Germann Stephanie Gray, LIC Cameron Maneri Joshua Way

C AL ENDAR OF EVEN TS U P CO M I N G O L A MEETINGS , EDUC ATION SE MI N A R S, A N D OT H E R GREEN INDUS TR Y EVE N T S

APRIL

AUGUST cont...

APRIL 11 SAFETY TRAINING DAY

AUGUST 14 NGLCO FIELD DAY

Safety is key to a successful company and this class features sessions on Proper Equipment Utilization and Operation, Basic First Aid and also teaches the Dangers of Distracted Driving and tips from the State Highway Patrol on Safe Hauling and Loading. Participants will select a tract custom designed for either Design/Build/Install or Landscape Maintenance. See page 7 for more details.

Join the Nursery Growers of Lake County Ohio for an informationpacked day at the 51st annual Summer Field Day! Visit old friends, make new ones and network with the best of the best. Held at Chalet Debonne Vineyards in Madison, Ohio. For more info, call Cathee Thomas at 440.241.7969.

JULY JULY 11 PLANT I.D. CLINIC This clinic is a hands-on training opportunity for you and your crews covering the basics of Plant ID for plants typically used in Zone 6 in Ohio. Many of the plants that will be covered are on the plant list for the Landscape Industry Certified Technician’s Test. Sponsored by Davis Tree Farm & Nursery. See page 34 for more details.

AUGUST AUGUST 1 OLA SCHOLARSHIP GOLF CLASSIC Join us at Bob-O-Link Golf Club in Columbia Station for the OLA Scholarship Golf Classic! Proceeds from this event benefit our OLA Scholarship Fund. Our golf outing was created to help generate funding for our scholarship program, targeting qualified students interested in a vocation within the green industry. Call the OLA at 800-335-6521 for sponsorship opportunities. Registration opens in Spring of 2019.

AUGUST 22 SNOW & ICE CLINIC Join us at St. Michael’s Woodside in Broadview Heights for our annual Snow & Ice Management Clinic, featuring Industry Experts, our Mini Trade Show, and more. Registration and Sponsorship Opportunities are available. Registration opens in Spring of 2019.

OLA’s NEW MEMBERS The Ohio Landscape Association is delighted to welcome the following members:

REGULAR MEMBER Ground Pro, LLC 1168 Noble Ave. Barberton, OH 44203 (330) 642-7446 Paul Burwell Garden Gate Landscaping & Lawncare LLC 1090 Piedmont Road Columbus, OH 43224 (614) 216-1220 Christopher Clark Premier Landscaping 1520 Cohassett Ave. Lakewood, OH 44017 (216) 228-6916 John Gilbride

SEPTEMBER

Wolfscape, Inc. 285 E. Twinsburg Road Northfield Center, OH 44067 (330) 468-3750 Tim Wolf

SEPTEMBER 19 (TENTATIVE) OLA MEETING (NE Ohio)

ASSOCIATE MEMBER

Joins us for our annual Landscape Facilities Tour. Location TBD. For more info call the OLA Office at 440.717.0002.

OCTOBER OCTOBER 10 (TENTATIVE) OLA MEETING (Central Ohio) Subject matter and location TBD. For more info call the OLA Office at 440.717.0002.

BigFoot Landscape Supply 9049 Tyler Blvd. Mentor, OH 44060 (440) 201-7000 Rick Saltzman & Branden Klusker Consumers Builders Supply PO Box 824 Lorain, OH 44052 (440) 277-9305 Jillian Riddell Marshall Equipment Company 7898 Mayfield Road Chesterland, OH 44026 (440) 792-0220 Allen Clayman The Growing Concern | April 2019 | 5

PR E S IDENT’ S C OL UMN continued from page 3 which is why it is so important to stay on top of your online reputation. Needless to say, if it isn’t already, online business marketing should be a priority of yours, whether it’s through the use of social media or via the various business marketing websites available to the profession. Beyond marketing, one of the biggest challenges business owners have is truly understanding the growth process, and then, planning that process. Often, owners allow the competitive market to grow their business, rather than implementing their own growth strategy. Personally, I completely understand the struggles of a business that continues to chase a profit. It’s hard to turn down jobs. The important thing to keep in mind is that to grow at a pace that will allow for continued and consistent growth for years to come, it has to be manageable.

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216-524-4544 One of the components of the Ohio Landscape Association’s recently-revised Strategic Plan focuses on management and change, specifically, revising plans when needed and making sure that the entire team buys into the association’s new goals. When planning your growth strategy, set realistic goals, weigh the risks and rewards associated with each, and don’t be afraid to revisit the plan often. Failing to set realistic goals by being Three Z Reg Qtr.indd 1 too conservative or too ambitious can result in disaster. Finally, after goals are set, it’s important that owners focus on strong external and internal relationships. While customer relationships are key, strong internal relationships with employees should also be a priority. Employees should feel as if they are part of the team, that their opinions are valued, and that their skills are utilized to the full potential. Being adaptable and innovative is really the only way to retain superstar employees in the current industry climate, and these superstars are the key to your success. Your company culture has to be better than that of the competition.

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With any change, there are always challenges and growing pains that are to be expected. A clear business plan, successful marketing campaign and ability to adapt and grow will pave the way to success for you, more often than not. It always helps to network with your fellow OLA peers. Please remember to join us at our meetings, educational seminars and discussions. There is always a wealth of knowledge to learn and share within our organization. The OLA Board of Directors and I wish you a Happy Spring 2019 and hope to see you soon!

6 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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OLA EDUCATION SERIES

COURSE INFO THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019 TRI-C EASTERN CAMPUS 4250 RICHMOND ROAD ROOM EMHC 122 HIGHLAND HILLS, OH 44122

Safety Training Day

AGENDA REGISTRATION / BREAKFAST 8:00AM - 8:30AM

This is a can’t miss event for anyone who uses equipment! This class will feature multiple types of machines utilized in the green industry and will teach you best practices and how to operate them in a safe manner. Safety is key to a successful company and this class features sessions on Proper Equipment Utilization and Operation, Basic First Aid and also teaches the Dangers of Distracted Driving and tips from the State Highway Patrol on Safe Hauling and Loading. Participants will select a tract custom designed for either Design/Build/Install or Landscape Maintenance and need to dress for the weather as part of this class with be outdoors with the equipment.

CLINIC 8:30AM - 4:30PM

Who should attend? Owners, Crew Leaders, Crew Members... Anyone working in the Green Profession.

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & SNACK ARE INCLUDED!

Why? Having ready, trained and enabled crews is key to spreading the culture of safety throughout your company.

COST MEMBERS BEFORE 03/28/19 - $99 AFTER 03/28/19 - $129

THIS EVENT SUPPORTED BY

The following companies have provided instructors, equipment and/or training materials to make this course possible:

NON MEMBERS BEFORE 03/28/19 - $129 AFTER 03/28/19 - $159 SPONSORED BY

Cancellations made 8 to 14 days prior to the course start date will be subject to a 30% cancellation fee. NO refunds or credits will be issued for cancellations 7 days or less prior to the course, no shows, or cancellations on the day of the course. If, for any reason, the course is cancelled, enrollees will be notified, and fees refunded in full.

2019 SAFETY TRAINING DAY / REGISTRATION CLOSES 04/04/19 Company Contact Address City State Phone (______)

Zip

Fax (______) Email

NAME OF ATTENDEE (S)

SELECT A TRACT FOR EACH PARTICIPANT

FEE

 LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE  DESIGN / BUILD / INSTALL

 Check No. (Enclosed)

$ TOTAL DUE Charge to my:  MasterCard  Visa  AMEX  Discover

Acct. No. Name on Card

Exp. Date

Billing Address + Zipcode for Card 7

CEU’S

Security Code

Signature

PEREN N I AL FOCUS

BOBBIE SCHWARTZ, FAPLD Bobbieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Green Thumb Though tolerant of drought, well-drained soil is the key to growing Iberis sempervirens well.

IBERIS SEMPERVIRENS EVERGREEN CANDYTUFT

There is no brighter harbinger of spring than lberis sempervirens with its clear white, four-petalled flowers atop 9 to 12 inch stems of alternating, small leaves. This perennial usually starts blooming sometime between the middle of April and the first of May. Native to Southern Europe, it is hardy from zones 3 to 8. After a normal winter, some detailed pruning of dessicated leaves is usually desirable. lberis has a woody base so new foliage will appear wherever it is pruned. After blooming, wait to cut the plants back so that you can enjoy the deadheads. However, when you think the deadheads are nearly ready to drop their seeds, you should cut the plants back by half to keep them full and compact using either shears or hand pruners.

Plant lberis in morning or full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid areas that are windy or those that receive strong afternoon sun during the winter since the leaves are easily dessicated and thus detract from its appearance. lberis can be used in many ways. Try planting it beside steps, in rock walls, or at the top of rock walls, perhaps in conjuction continued on page 10

8 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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PER EN N I AL FOCUS

continued from page 8 with Phlox subulata which will start blooming a bit later and still be in bloom when the Candytuft is finished. When mature, both of these perennials become rivers of color. If you want to emphasize the flowing nature of these perennials, plant them in undulating lines to imitate the nature of water. In a border situation, plant lberis at the front of the border with tulips behind. Install the tulips in groups of three to five between summer flowering perennials such as Centranthus ruber (Valerian) or Achillea millefolium (Yarrow). Their foliage will hide that of the dying foliage of the tulips and both perennials are not so tall as to be out of scale with the relatively dwarf lberis in front of them. This old-fashioned perennial is a lovely herald of Spring. Isn’t it wonderful that Spring is almost here?

Iberis seedheads provide an extra season of interest.

Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, owner of Bobbie’s Green Thumb in Shaker Hts., Ohio, is a landscape designer, consultant, freelance writer, and lecturer whose specialties are perennial gardens and four season landscapes. In addition to being an Ohio Landscape Association (OLA) member, she is an active member of the Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association (ONLA) and Perennial Plant Association (PPA). Bobbie is a Past President of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD). Bobbie’s new book, Garden Renovation: Transform Your Yard into the Garden of Your Dreams, was published in November 2017 by Timber Press.

10 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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The Growing Concern | April 2019 | 11

F I SCAL FI TN ESS

MICHAEL J. DONNELLAN King Financial, Inc.

IRA LAST-MINUTE TAX SAVINGS Many if not most Americans are confused about which tax-saving strategies are actually legal, NerdWallet found in a 2019 tax survey. As a result, millions of people filing taxes could be missing out on moneysaving deductions. One such strategy is to contribute to your IRA for 2018 after December 31st but before the tax deadline in 2019. A full 75 percent of Americans think funding an IRA after the end of the year to reduce their taxable income is illegal, the personal finance site reports.

Say you’re earning $50,000 a year. If you qualify for a deductible contribution and you put in $5,500 (the maximum in 2018 if you’re under age 50), that will drop your taxable income to $44,500. If your top tax rate is 22 percent, you are shaving $1,210 off your tax bill, and also saving for retirement.

The strategy is actually perfectly legal. Assuming you qualify, you have until the Monday, April 15th, tax deadline to contribute to an IRA for the previous year. So, you have approximately 15 ½ months to make an IRA contribution for any particular year.

Keep in mind that this strategy only applies to a traditional IRA, not a Roth IRA. Roth IRAs are great in their own right. With this retirement account, contributions are taxed when they are made, so you can withdraw the contributions and earnings tax-free once you reach age 59½, but no tax break in the year you contribute. Roth IRAs do have income limitations on contributions. Another benefit to Roth IRA holders is that Required Minimum Distributions are not mandatory when the holder reaches the age of 70 ½.

The reason this strategy can save you money is because, when you contribute to an IRA, you can deduct that contribution from your taxable income for 2018.

continued on page 14

12 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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The Growing Concern | April 2019 | 13

FI SCAL FI TN ESS

continued from page 12 While anyone can contribute to a traditional IRA, for that contribution to be deductible, there are stipulations to keep in mind: As long as you (and your spouse if you are married) don’t have a retirement plan at work, then most likely you should be eligible to deduct your IRA contribution. If one or both of you have a retirement plan at your job, then income limits come into play. Basically, the rules limit how many retirement-savings tax breaks you can claim. A few other things to keep in mind about IRAs: • You need to have taxable compensation to contribute. Amounts you receive as interest, dividends, pension, annuity, earnings and profits from property investments, and any amount you exclude from your income are not considered eligible compensation for IRA purposes. • The maximum yearly contribution for 2018 is $5,500 (though that’s been raised to $6,000 for 2019), or • $6,500 for people age 50 or older ($7,000 for 2019) • If you are contributing to both a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA, the maximum contribution limit applies to both accounts combined

14 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

Finally, be sure to inform your financial institution whether you want your contribution to apply to your 2018 taxes or your 2019 taxes. So, if you want to take advantage of this tax-reduction strategy this year, specify that you are making a tax-year 2018 contribution. Of course, talk with your tax and financial advisors for information specific to your tax situation, goals and risk tolerances. Michael J. Donnellan is President of King Financial, Inc. specializing in stock selection and retirement planning. Feel free to contact him with any questions or comments at the M3 Wealth Management office at 17601 W. 130th Street – Suite 1 in North Royalton, Ohio. Phone number (440) 652-6370 Email: donnellan@m3wealthmanagement.com Securities and advisory services offered through L.M. Kohn & Company Registered Broker/Dealer Member FINRA/SIPC/MSRB 10151 Carver Rd. Suite 100 – Cincinnati, Ohio 45242 (800) 478-0788

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16 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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THE AWARD FOR LIFETIME CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY

Sandy Hlaves Munley

Sandy Hlaves Munley was born to mother Helen and father Richard Hlaves and grew up in Berea, OH, alongside her older brother Richard. Her father managed a successful retail store that sold lawn mowers and bicycles, and her mother stayed at home to take care of the two children, until later going to work for Ohio School Pictures. Upon graduating from Berea High School in 1976, it was straight to work for Sandy, where one of her first opportunities – and work-life lessons – came as an employee at Winkleman’s Department Store. Though more than deserving, while at Winklelman’s, she was often passed over for management positions due to her age. Determined not to let this defeat her, she promptly left Winkleman’s for J.P. Snodgrass, where she quickly rose through the ranks, from Assistant Manager, to General Store Manager, and then on to District Sales Manager. When JP Snodgrass closed its doors in 1981, Sandy took her talents to Brecksville, where she became the General Manager at Proud Printers. It was here where she first met Jeffrey Barker, Founder and President of J. Barker Landscaping. Jeffrey was so impressed with Sandy’s

demeanor and creative abilities, that when Sandy left Proud Printers in 1990 to give birth to her daughter, Maggie, he hired her on as a part-time employee to assist with landscape design and drawings. She continued on in this capacity with Jeffrey until 1992. During this time, the Ohio Landscape Association – which Jeffrey was a board member of – had fallen into some disarray. In 1991, the member-run association had no staff, no budget, and only 50 to 60 members. Participation at events was low and many times meetings were cancelled due to the lack of attendance. Everyone knew something had to be done. Finally, in the spring of 1992, at a board meeting in the basement of a Holiday Inn at Richfield, Jeffrey suggested Sandy

for the position of Executive Director. Shortly thereafter, in June of 1992, Sandy became the new Executive Director of the OLA. As it applies to the OLA, over the past 27 years, Sandy has done more for the organization than any other individual in its 53 years of existence. What started in the converted maintenance closet of a Holiday Inn now has a stand-alone office space with staff. What were then struggling meetings are now full – often sold out – events. And, what was once a 50 member Association boasts nearly 500 – with thousands of member employees and followers, to boot. All-in-all, it is safe to say that Sandy deserves full credit for the OLA’s growth over the years. She has been like a mother hen to many – helping cultivate individuals, businesses continued on page 18 and the industry.

THE 22nd ANNUAL LANDSCAPE OHIO! AWARDS

continued from page 17 Outside of the OLA, Sandy has committed much of her free time towards securing the future of this industry. She’s served as advisory to Cuyahoga Community College, Ohio State ATI, and Auburn Career Center – to name a few – and continues to be one of the biggest advocates for the Handson Landscape Industry Certification (LIC) Test. She’s served on the boards of the Nursery and Landscape Association Executives of North America, The National Association of Landscape Professionals, and has taken an active role within the Great Lakes Nursery and Landscape Association. She’s been named PLANET’s Association Executive of the Year, PLANET’s Association Partner of the Year and ONLA’s Legislative Advocate of the Year. Throughout the country, the Ohio Landscape Association is well known and respected due to Sandy’s efforts on the H2B front. Sandy is the guiding eye that keeps those in attendance informed and

in line when in Washington, D.C. She has a unique ability to see both sides of the issue and understands that whether a company uses the program or not, the lack of a stable and predictable workforce is detrimental to the entire industry. She has continued to speak to any lawmaker or media outlet that will listen. Sandy mentioned years ago, in an interview with Lawn & Landscape, that she was blessed because she “loves what she does, who she does it for, and who she does it with.” Those feelings are reciprocated. A daughter, a sister, a mother, a grandma, a peer, a leader, and most importantly a friend to everyone – for the aforementioned reasons and so much more – the OLA has selected you to receive the OLA’s highest honor – The Lifetime Contributions to the Landscape Profession Award. Congratulations Sandy... and thank you!

SEE THE PROJECTS @ WWW.OHIOLANDSCAPERS.ORG/LANDSCAPEOHIOAWARDS

THE AWARD FOR LIFETIME CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY

George Hohman

George Hohman was born in Cleveland, Ohio to parents George and Tally. He grew up in Sagamore Hills with a younger sister, Kim. He attended Walsh Jesuit High School and Akron University, where he studied business while working at Angie’s Pizza, where he became manager and also met his future wife – Mary. Recognizing that you only get out of something what you put in to it, George is also involved in the local community, with local schools and other associations. Turfscape often gives back to its community, donating time and talent.

Together, George and Mary have two sons: Travis (24), who graduated from Bowling Green University and works at Level Green Landscaping in Washington, D.C. and Collin (20), who attends Northern Kentucky University and plays D1 baseball. George started Turfscape in 1988 and has built a successful commercial landscape management company boasting, at times, 140 employees. He prides himself on building and training his team, and holds numerous events geared at both. Turfscape celebrates its employees.

George served on the board of directors for the Ohio Landscape Association from 1994 – 1998. He was president of the OLA in 1997 and earned the moniker of, George “Don’t Make Me Call You” Hohman, because he held fellow board members accountable. He’s also spoke several times for the OLA and has opened his doors for our Landscape Facility Tours.

One of George’s passions is baseball. He is past Baseball Coordinator and Head Coach for St. Barnabas, and has rose through the ranks to become the head coach at Trinity High School. Recently though, George had to make the decision to resign as their coach in order to keep his business running after not receiving his H2B Visas last spring. At that point, he also made the unselfish decision in going public with the industry’s story, hoping that more attention will help solve the growing labor issue facing the landscape profession.

Over the years, George has been one of the association’s strongest advocates in Washington, D.C., once bringing his family so that his sons would learn the importance of advocacy.

George was part of the OLA team that raised funds so the he, Joe Drake and Tom Demaline could have an audience with President Trump while attending the Republican State Dinner in August of 2018 in Columbus, OH.

George currently serves on the Tri-C Plant Science and Technology Advisory Board and previously served on the SIMA board of directors and the Cuyahoga Valley Career Center Advisory Board.

The OLA recognizes George Hohman as this year’s recipient of its highest honor – The Lifetime Contributions to the Landscape Profession Award. Congratulations George!

THE 22nd ANNUAL LANDSCAPE OHIO! AWARDS

AWARD WINNING PROJECTS RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE

SPONSOR: ALVORD’S YARD & GARDEN EQUIPMENT AWARD OF MERIT Chesterland Nurseries, Ltd. The Hockman Residence

COMMERCIAL MAINTENANCE

SPONSOR: SNOW & ICE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION AWARD OF HONOR Rice’s Landscapes Redefined Hendrickson International

RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION, CATEGORY I SPONSOR: DAVIS TREE FARM AND NURSERY AWARD OF HONOR Lifestyle Landscaping, Inc. The Hackett Residence

AWARD OF MERIT Yard Smart, Inc. The McGlynn Residence

RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION, CATEGORY III SPONSOR: PREMIER PLANT SOLUTIONS AWARD OF HONOR Lifestyle Landscaping, Inc. An Avon Family Sanctuary

AWARD OF MERIT Exscape Designs The Conti Residence

AWARD OF MERIT O’Neill Landscape Design & Installation, LLC The Day Residence

RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION, CATEGORY IV SPONSOR: LAKE COUNTY NURSERY AWARD OF HONOR Rice’s Landscapes Redefined A Private Residence

AWARD OF MERIT Exscape Designs A Backyard Retreat

AWARD OF MERIT The Pattie Group The Barton-Orr Residence

THANK YOU TO THIS YEAR’S SPONSORS EVENT SPONSORS

CATEGORY SPONSORS

VISIT WWW.MYOHIOLANDSCAPE.COM TO VIEW THE PROJECTS

THE 22nd ANNUAL LANDSCAPE OHIO! AWARDS

AWARD WINNING PROJECTS RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION, CATEGORY VI with SWIMMING POOLS SPONSOR: VALLEY CITY SUPPLY AWARD OF HONOR Exscape Designs A Shaker Heights Backyard

AWARD OF MERIT Landscapes by Terra, Inc. A Brock Road Retreat

AWARD OF MERIT Exscape Designs A Private Residence

COMMERCIAL INSTALLATION, CATEGORY I SPONSOR: KURTZ BROS., INC.

AWARD OF HONOR Rice’s Landscapes Redefined Belden Village Mall

AWARD OF MERIT Rice’s Landscapes Redefined Hendrickson International

COMMERCIAL INSTALLATION, CATEGORY II SPONSOR: KLYN NUSERIES, INC. AWARD OF MERIT Rice’s Landscapes Redefined Campbell Oil Company

AWARD OF MERIT Brookside Construction Services Franklin Park Conservatory

WATER FEATURES

SPONSOR: BEDFORD GLENS GARDEN CENTER AWARD OF HONOR The Pattie Group The Spiga Residence

AWARD OF MERIT Suncrest Gardens The Koi Pond at the Bartlett Residence

AWARD OF MERIT Lifestyle Landscaping, Inc. The Sampson Residence

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

SPONSOR: WOLF CREEK COMPANY AWARD OF HONOR Ground Works Land Design The Maliki Residence

AWARD OF MERIT S.A.M. Landscaping The MacKinlay Residence

THE 22nd ANNUAL LANDSCAPE OHIO! AWARDS

AWARD WINNING PROJECTS SPECIALTY GARDENS

SPONSOR: GREAT BIG HOME & GARDEN SHOW AWARD OF HONOR #1 Landscaping The 9/11 Memorial in Medina

AWARD OF MERIT Lifestyle Landscaping, Inc. The Hackett Urban Meadow

SHOW GARDENS / DISPLAY GARDENS SPONSOR: BIGFOOT LANDSCAPE SUPPLY AWARD OF HONOR Brothers Grimm Landscape & Design 2017 Great Big Home & Garden Show

AWARD OF MERIT Brothers Grimm Landscape & Design 2018 Great Big Home & Garden Show

AWARD OF MERIT #1 Landscaping The 9/11 Memorial in Medina

GARDEN STRUCTURES/PAVEMENTS, CATEGORY I SPONSOR: CONSUMERS BUILDERS SUPPLY AWARD OF HONOR #1 Landscaping The Teynor Residence

AWARD OF MERIT Chesterland Nurseries, Ltd. The Hockman Residence

AWARD OF MERIT Suncrest Gardens The Lower Patio at the Bartlett Residence

GARDEN STRUCTURES/PAVEMENTS, CATEGORY II SPONSOR: UNILOCK OHIO, INC.

AWARD OF MERIT Moscarino Outdoor Creations, Inc. The Palmer Residence

AWARD OF MERIT Ground Works Land Design The Nobles Residence

GARDEN STRUCTURES/PAVEMENTS, CATEGORY III SPONSOR: BELGARD HARDSCAPES AWARD OF HONOR Landscapes by Terra A Brock Road Retreat

AWARD OF MERIT J. Barker Landscaping Company Luxury Lakefront Living

AWARD OF MERIT #1 Landscaping The Mancuso Pool House

AWARD OF MERIT O’Neill Landscape Design The Froimson Residence

BEST USE OF COLOR

SPONSOR: OHIO LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION AWARD OF HONOR University of Akron The 2018 Annual Installation

AWARD OF MERIT BrightView Landscaping Services Legacy Village

AWARD OF MERIT BrightView Landscaping Services Atrium 1 & 2

This awards program was created to increase awareness of quality landscaping and how it improves our environment. The annual competition recognizes designers, installers, and property owners. The program is open to all Regular member companies of the Ohio Landscape Association. Project sites must be located in Ohio or in a state that borders Ohio, and a major portion of the project must be the work of the entrant. Projects are eligible for up to five (5) years after completion. Project previously entered may be reentered, as long as the project has not received an Honor or Judge’s Special Award in the past.

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

ach year, the Ohio Landscape Association has scholarship monies available for selected students who are interested in pursuing horticulture in college. Our Annual Scholarship Golf Classic was created to help generate funding for this program, targeting qualified students interested in a vocation within the Green Industry. Eligible recipients/applicants include high school seniors who are enrolled in a horticulture program, as well as college students currently studying horticulture. Applicants must also be either an OLA Student Member, an employee of an OLA Member, or a child of an employee of an OLA Member firm. To apply, please visit www.ohiolandscapers. org/pdfs/scholarship_application.pdf and fill out our online scholarship application. Applications for the 2020/2021 year will posted soon. We are pleased to announce this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scholarship recipients. Congratulations to you all!

Megan Schafer

$2,500 Scholarship

Megan Schafer is a graduate of North Olmsted High School. She is currently attending Cuyahoga Community College, where she is pursuing an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Plant Science and Landscape Technology. After graduation, she hopes to transfer to a four-year program as finances allow.

Kasandra Hernandez $1,000 Scholarship

Kassandra Hernandez is currently studying at Cuyahoga Community College where she has a 4.0 GPA. She is scheduled to graduate in 2019 and plans to continue her education at Kent State University majoring in Urban Forestry. She hopes to one day pursue a PhD.

Amanda Gainer

$750 Scholarship

Amanda Gainer graduated from Baldwin Wallace University with a degree in Fine Arts in 2011. While there, she held a grade point average of 3.2. After realizing she had a passion for plants and could meld plants and art into one career, Amanda enrolled in the Plant Science and Technology program at Tri-C.

Grant Kessler

$750 Scholarship

Grant Kessler is a senior at Marysville High School where he has a 3.6 grade point average. In 2016, he won 1st place for Hardscape Installation at the Ohio High School Landscape Olympics. In 2017 he came in 2nd place overall, and in 2018 he was 6th place overall. He plans to attend The Ohio State ATI in the fall.

Blake Kessler

$750 Scholarship GOLF REGISTRATION OPENS SPRING/SUMMER 2019

Blake Kessler is a senior at Marysville High School and carries a 3.3 GPA. In 2016, he won 1st place for Hardscape Installation at the Ohio High School Landscape Olympics, was part of the 2016 FFA State Champion Nursery and Landscape Team and the 17th place National FFA Team. He plans to attend The Ohio State ATI.

FOR SAFETY SAK E

NEW EMPLOYEE SAFETY WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 40% of workers injured have been on the job less than one year. Why are new workers more likely to be hurt? The main reason given is a lack of safety information provided by the employer. In a BLS study of workers injured while operating power saws, nearly one in five said that no safety training on the equipment was provided. Many employers want to do the right thing and provide the proper training to new employees but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know where to get started. Here are the basics to cover during a New Employee Orientation: 1) Safety Objectives and Goals Let new employees know about your organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall safety program, including the safety objectives and goals. Reiterate that every employee plays a large part in helping to meet these goals. 2) Reporting Accidents, Injuries and Near Misses OSHA has specific record keeping requirements that must be followed in the event of an incident. Train new employees on

24 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

the importance of reporting any accident, injury or near miss immediately. Review the process with them and explain the steps they need to take. 3) What to Do in Case of an Emergency Employees should be trained on emergency action plans and be aware of procedures to follow to protect themselves and others. Review emergency action plans regularly to ensure everyone understands what needs to be done.

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4) Warning Signs and Tags Many operations involve a certain element of risk. Safety signs and tags are a means of preventing workplace accidents by illustrating the hazards that are present in a particular work area. Instruct new employees on what certain signs and symbols represent and the corresponding hazards, as well as the appropriate PPE for that area.

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more chemical hazards in the U.S. each year. Provide new employees with effective information on any chemicals in your workplace and discuss the hazards associated with them. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to also review your specific Hazard Communication program and use proper work practices to limit exposure.

5) Fire Safety The best protection is fire prevention. Train new employees on how a fire starts and what is needed to extinguish it. Teach employees how to properly use an extinguisher and show employees where extinguishers are located. Additionally, review your facilities Emergency Action Plan, including what to do in the event of being trapped.

7) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Some jobs involve hazards that cannot be eliminated through engineering controls. Assess your workplace hazards and determine if PPE is needed. When selecting the appropriate PPE, make sure it fits properly and protects against the hazards present in your workplace. Train new employees to know when PPE is necessary, how to wear PPE and the proper care and maintenance of PPE.

6) Hazard Communications Approximately 32 million workers are exposed to one or

8) Lockout/Tagout Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is a warning and prevention continued on page 26 The Growing Concern | April 2019 | 25

F OR SAFETY SAK E

continued from page 25 system for unexpected startup and release of stored energy. Employees servicing equipment must be trained in depth and employees working nearby should also be trained. 9) Housekeeping Housekeeping is not just clean floors â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is the best indicator of safety. Train employees on proper housekeeping procedures, including how to properly store equipment and how to prevent, detect and clean up leaks and spills.

12) Hearing Conservation Noise is a pervasive occupational health problem and is a byproduct of many industrial processes. Noise can make you tired and irritable, increase your stress level and make you miss important warnings. Steps should be taken to reduce noise levels wherever possible, and the appropriate PPE should be provided. Employees must be trained to understand noise hazards and to take appropriate precautions when they are exposed to excessive noise.

10) Safe Lifting Techniques Most back problems are preventable. There are a variety of stresses that improper lifting, twisting and bending can put on the back. Train employees on the proper lifting techniques and stress that if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too heavy, ask for assistance.

Effective training results in effective safety measures on the job. Safety training helps your business prevent workplace accidents and increases productivity. Safety training ensures that proper protective measures are taken, preventing accidents and the associated financial costs.

11) Electrical Safety Hundreds of deaths are attributed to contact with electrical current each year. Teach your employees how to identify electrical hazards and review the proper PPE to wear when working with electricity.

This article was written by Julie Copeland, CEO at Arbill, and originally ran on the Arbill Safety Blog, located at https://www.arbill.com/arbill-safety-blog. Since our founding in 1945, Arbill has been and continues to be a leader in workplace safety. They provide a wide range of personal protective equipment (PPE), safety services and training to help their partners strengthen and maintain workplace safety in a comprehensive way that reduces costs and accidents.

26 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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To find out more about what VanCuren has to offer, visit our website at www.vancurentreecare.com, or call us at 440.338.5005 today for a free consultation. • Complete Tree Maintenance Programs

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PL ANT OF TH E M ON TH

JIM FUNAI, LIC Cuyahoga Community College Myrtle is a versatile ground cover for shady areas. It provides good cover for bulbs and is effective on slopes or banks to stabilize soils and prevent erosion.

SHELLEY FUNAI, LIC Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

VINCA MINOR MYRTLE Our guess is that, depending on your horticultural preferences, you either smiled when you read the name of our plant of the month, or it’s too late and you’ve already thrown the magazine across the room in disgust. Those of you still with us might be asking why the others would have such a reaction to this plant. Some might say because it is “overused,” and others because it is “invasive.” We’d like to explore both of those thoughts while asking people to reconsider this attractive ground cover as yet another plant that offers good biodiversity and behaves just fine – in the proper location. As you’ve heard us suggest before, gone are the days of natives vs. non-natives. The debate is over. Both are essential, though we need both to not be aggressive/invasive in the ecosystems where we place them.

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Vinca species are not native to the United States. They are found naturally in Europe and Western Asia (as far as we know), but the plant has been under cultivation likely prior to recorded history. When humans have been admiring a plant and utilizing it for well over 2,500 years, it’s going to be a pretty blurry line where it is “native” to. The best description to give this ground cover is “escaped from cultivation.” It’s been used in America since the 1700s and in those 300 some years, you’d be hard pressed to find it causing mass chaos in the ecosystems where it has “escaped.” In Ohio, if you come across a random patch of Vinca in the woods, keep looking and you’ll likely also find ruins of an old foundation from a homestead that planted it.

This is where we take a breath and realize, this plant spreads by creeping along the ground and setting roots. It did not arrive in the forest via animal droppings, nor wind borne seed, nor water carrying it there. A human put it there and odds are, it hasn’t gone too far. If this is in a natural area, kill it and move on to bigger problems. In our urbanized landscapes, this plant is a vital member of increasing plant life, success, and beauty. Vinca comes from the Latin word vinculum which meant “a band” – in reference to the long, tough shoots that were used to braid baskets. These long, wiry stems carry oppositing evergreen leaves that remain a deep, shiny green through winter and bounce back in spring, though in a much brighter green. Lilac colored flowers, about an inch in diameter, bloom sometime around mid/late March through April and can be spotted across a blanket of green, which offers a nice ornamental touch. Coupled with spring blooming bulbs, you can put on quite a spring show. Vinca will be happiest in the shade, under a high canopy of trees. It really isn’t a top performer in a brand new landscape

with no overhead cover from the direct sun. Heavy clay will slow it down to a crawl, but planting under a mature canopy means you won’t have to attack the soil with any machines or crazy amendments. You will find a number of cultivars on the market, offering various growth rates, leaf size, and deepness of flower color, but essentially most perform the same. Interestingly, this member of the Apocynaceae (dog bane) family is one of the most cold hardy of the rather large family – over 4,600 species. This vast family includes trees, shrubs, ground covers/vines, and herbaceous perennials such as Butterfly Weed (Aesclepias) and Bluestar (Amsonia). Some of the tropical members are familiar to us as well like Oleander (Nerium), Wax Flower (Hoya), Jasmine (Trachelospermum) and Mandevilla. This long time favorite ground cover reached “overused” status because it is quite versatile and beautiful when it is happy. You may come across reports that it will invade continued on page 30 The Growing Concern | April 2019 | 29

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continued from page 29 the lawn. With good horticultural practices, such as crisp bed edges and proper mowing, we’ve never seen this to be an issue. It isn’t a plant that tolerates weekly mowing, so running your trimmer along the bed edge here and there will keep things well behaved. Because of Vinca’s ability to root and spread, beside being an ornamental ground cover, they can also be used to help hold soil in place. This can be important on the side of a hill, where soil erosion might be a problem.

In full disclosure, we are horticulturists that prefer to reduce the sea of mulch in the landscape while increasing the amount of plants covering the ground, in effort to help build a better ecosystem. If you have a client that loves to swim in a sea of mulch between – meatball shaped shrubs – you may want to steer clear of this one. Jim Funai is full-time faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, a NALP accredited associate of applied science in hoticulture degree program. He is pursuing a PhD in Landscape Engineering and Forestry and is a Licensed Arborist. Shelley Funai is Grounds Manager at Stan Hywett Hall and Gardens

The vines need little care. They are deer-resistant, the flowers are rabbit-proof, and few insects eat them, so there is not much pest control to worry about.

30 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association

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F EATURE ARTI CLE

GPS tracking is beneficial in many industries, some of which don’t yet realize how beneficial GPS tracking has the potential to be. Landscaping is one of the industries in which GPS can literally change the way businesses operate. In addition to the money-saving benefits you’ll experience when using GPS tracking software, there are routing and staffing issues you may discover as well. Whether your business focuses strictly on lawn services or you offer other landscaping services, you’re sure to enjoy many GPS tracking benefits.

WHAT IS VEHICLE TRACKING?

PASSIVE VS. ACTIVE TRACKING

Vehicle tracking systems, as the name suggest, allow tracking of vehicles in its most basic function. Other functions include vehicle tracking performance and maintenance, driver’s performance, but also facilitates fuel management and dispatching, sends alerts and notifications, prevents thefts and provides reports and enables analysis of these reports. More functionalities are possible; however, that depends on the company offering fleet management solutions.

Vehicle tracking systems can be divided into passive and active. Passive tracking systems collect and save all the information, which will be later retrieved. Active tracking systems collect and send information in real-time, which offers more advantages. Some tracking system may use both passive and active tracking. Passive tracking devices and systems may be a less expensive solution, however fully sufficient for some companies. continued on page 35 The Growing Concern | April 2019 | 33

PL ANT OF THOLA E M ON TH EDUCATION SERIES