The Growing Concern March 2024

“We know your industry and your needs. We got your back!”

LANDSCAPES IN BLOOM

NURTURING SUCCESS

THROUGH TRAINING

& DEVELOPMENT

In the ever-evolving landscape industry, where nature meets innovation, the importance of training and development cannot be overstated. From horticultural expertise to advanced technology integration, the landscape sector thrives on skilled professionals who continuously enhance their knowledge and skills. In this article, I’d like to discuss the significance of training and development within the industry and explore how it fosters growth, sustainability, and excellence.

THE NEED FOR CONTINUOUS LEARNING

The landscape industry is one that is multifaceted, encompassing various disciplines such as design, installation, maintenance, and sustainable practices. With trends evolving and techniques advancing, staying abreast of the latest developments is crucial for professionals in the field. Continuous learning not only enhances individual proficiency but also ensures that businesses remain competitive in a dynamic market.

HORTICULTURAL EXPERTISE

At the heart of the landscape industry lies horticultural knowledge. From identifying plant species to understanding soil composition, horticultural expertise forms the foundation of successful landscaping projects. Training programs tailored to horticulture equip professionals with the skills needed to select appropriate plants, diagnose diseases, and create thriving outdoor spaces. By investing in horticultural training, companies can deliver superior quality services and establish themselves as industry leaders. Joining us at our plant healthcare, plant identification and dormant pruning clinics could help you fill many of your training needs in the horticulture aspect.

TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION

In recent years, technological advancements have revolutionized the landscape industry. From drone surveys to irrigation systems controlled by smartphones, technology offers innovative

solutions that streamline processes and enhance efficiency. Training initiatives focused on technology integration empower professionals to leverage tools and software effectively, improving project management, resource allocation, and client communication. Embracing technology not only drives operational excellence but also enables businesses to deliver cutting-edge solutions to their clients.

SAFETY AWARENESS AND RISK REDUCTION

Safety awareness and risk reduction are paramount in the landscaping industry, where professionals often work in diverse and potentially hazardous environments. From operating heavy machinery to handling sharp tools and chemicals, landscapers face various risks daily. Therefore, comprehensive safety training is essential to mitigate these risks and ensure a safe working environment for all. Training programs educate professionals on proper equipment operation, safety protocols, and hazard identification, empowering them to recognize and address potential dangers proactively. By emphasizing safety awareness and risk reduction, landscaping companies can significantly reduce the incidence of accidents and injuries on job sites, protecting the well-being of their employees and fostering a culture of safety-first practices. Additionally, prioritizing safety not only enhances worker morale and productivity but also builds trust and confidence with clients, demonstrating a commitment to professionalism and excellence in all aspects of landscaping operations.

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CAMERON MANERI

Cleary Brothers Landscaping

OHIO’S PROFESSIONAL GREEN INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

OHIO LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION

9240 Broadview Road

Broadview Heights, Ohio 44147

Phone: 440.717.0002

Toll Free: 1.800.335.6521

Web: www.ohiolandscapers.org and www.myohiolandscape.com

DESIGNER / EDITOR

Rick Doll

REGULAR WRITERS

Michael J. Donnellan, M3 Wealth Management

Dr. Jim Funai, PhD, Cuyahoga Community College

Shelley Funai, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

Cameron Maneri, Cleary Brothers Landscaping

Sandy Munley, Ohio Landscape Association

Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, Bobbie’s Green Thumb

ADVERTISING INFORMATION

Submission deadline: 10th of the month, prior to the month of magazine publication. For advertising rates and ad specs, please call 440.717.0002, 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.

OFFICERS

President

Cameron Maneri

President – Elect

Yucca

Ryan Drake

Treasurer

Brandon Barker

Immediate Past President

Stephanie Gray, LIC

DIRECTORS

Philip Germann

Matt Malone

Tim McCaskey

Bob Ramser,

Tom Rieder,

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

UPCOMING EDUCATION SEMINARS & EVENTS

MARCH 2024

MARCH 11

MARCH 2024 cont...

MARCH 13 (CENTRAL OHIO)

CREW LEADER TRAINING (English)

SALES TRAINING CLINIC Professionals in the Green Industry face a unique set of challenges when it comes to engaging and converting the modern buyer. To address these challenges and help you thrive in today’s competitive market, Sandler Training will be leading an insightful, highly interactive sales talk tailored exclusively for the OLA.

MARCH 11 (NE OHIO)

CREW LEADER TRAINING (English)

Crew Leaders work side by side with employees while having to direct and motivate them. They will learn how to effectively manage their team, handle tight deadlines, all while increasing customer satisfaction.

MARCH 28

CENTRAL OHIO MEETING

Company Vision

Crew Leaders work side by side with employees while having to direct and motivate them. They will learn how to effectively manage their team, handle tight deadlines, all while increasing customer satisfaction.

MARCH 12 (NE OHIO)

CREW LEADER TRAINING (Spanish)

We’re happy to announce a spanish-speaking version of this course, as part of our pilot program to determine the interest in holding spanish courses in the future.

Crew Leaders work side by side with employees while having to direct and motivate them. They will learn how to effectively manage their team, handle tight deadlines, all while increasing customer satisfaction.

A company vision is your goal for what your business will be in the future. It will align with your business goals and aspirations. Your company vision is the formal way of communicating your business goals & commitments to others. Join the OLA as we welcome Jerry Schill, president and co-owner of Schill Grounds Management, to discuss the process and importance of creating a clear company vision. See page 26.

APRIL 2024

APRIL 5

IRRIGATION CLINIC

A hands-on training opportunity for field technicians to learn the basics of irrigation repair and troubleshooting. Participants will learn to identify the components of an irrigation system, operate and adjust irrigation controllers, and troubleshoot irrigation issues that commonly occur on job sites. See page 27.

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SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES

Sustainability practice training is increasingly crucial in the landscaping industry as environmental consciousness continues to grow. These training programs educate professionals on eco-friendly design principles, water conservation techniques, and the use of native plants to minimize environmental impact. By understanding the importance of sustainable landscaping practices, professionals can create outdoor spaces that are not only visually appealing but also environmentally responsible. Training in sustainability encourages the use of organic fertilizers, efficient irrigation systems, and the incorporation of renewable materials, reducing carbon footprints and preserving natural resources. Furthermore, sustainability practice training empowers landscapers to educate clients on the benefits of eco-conscious landscaping, fostering a collective commitment to environmental stewardship. Ultimately, by integrating sustainability into landscaping practices, professionals contribute to a healthier planet while delivering beautiful and sustainable outdoor environments for communities to enjoy.

RELATIONSHIP BUILDING

Success is not only measured by the beauty of the designs but also by the strength of the relationships cultivated. Whether it’s with clients, industry partners, community members, or employees, investing time and effort into building and maintaining meaningful connections is essential for long-term success. By prioritizing relationships, landscape professionals can create a thriving and sustainable business in an industry that values collaboration and creativity.

CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Training and development programs offer professionals in the landscape industry opportunities for career advancement and personal growth. From certifications in specialized areas such as arboriculture or landscape design to leadership training and management courses, investing in professional development opens doors to new possibilities. By acquiring advanced skills and credentials, individuals can pursue higher-paying roles, take on leadership positions, or even start their own businesses. Moreover, ongoing learning not only enhances job satisfaction but also instills a sense of pride and accomplishment in one’s work.

INDUSTRY COLLABORATION

In a collaborative industry like landscaping, knowledge sharing and networking are invaluable. Training and

development initiatives provide platforms for professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and learn from each other’s experiences. Whether through workshops, conferences, or online forums, participating in industry events fosters a sense of community and encourages collaboration among peers. By engaging in continuous learning and collaboration, professionals contribute to the collective growth and advancement of our industry.

CONCLUSION

Training and development are indispensable elements of any successful business in the landscape industry. By investing in the ongoing education and skill development of professionals, businesses can achieve higher levels of proficiency, innovation, and client satisfaction. Whether through horticultural training, technology integration, sustainability practices, or career advancement opportunities, our industry thrives on a culture of continuous learning and improvement. As the industry continues to evolve, embracing training and development will remain essential for staying ahead of the curve and cultivating success in the ever-changing landscape.

ATTENTION LANDSCAPE PROFESSIONALS

We’ll help make your properties outstanding.

Organics are included for dense lawns without excess growth.

Weeds carefully spot treated.

Direct client billing makes it simple for you.

Landscape referrals to you.

EVERGREEN GROUNDCOVERS

Homeowners and landscapers face many problems, not the least of which are areas that are difficult to mow but need to look good. This includes short but steep slopes, larger, gentler embankments, and large swaths of flat or rolling ground. Such areas cry out for an evergreen groundcover that will slow erosion by forming a thick mat of roots and foliage to prevent the germination of weeds.

Forget the traditional three - Hedera helix (Ivy), Pachysandra, and Vinca minor (Myrtle) - and try one of the following suggestions.

Arabis caucasica (Rockcress) has felty, gray-green foliage that is scalloped and spreads over the ground in no time at all. It has magenta, lavender-pink or white flowers, depending on the cultivar, from April to the middle of May and is only two inches high. Shear back slightly after blooming to keep it from sprawling. Grow in full sun to partial shade in welldrained soil.

Geranium cantabrigiense ‘Biokovo’ or ‘Biokovo Karmina’ has small lobed leaves that form a tight mat that becomes tinged with red in the fall and remains that way all winter. In May and June, its six inch high flowers are pale pink or bright pink depending on the cultivar. Even after the long blooming flowers (four to six weeks depending on the temperature) lose their petals, the red calyces remain for another month. Grow in full sun to partial shade in average to moist soil. Another hardy geranium that is particularly useful is Geranium macrorrhizum (Big Root Geranium) because it will thrive in heavily shaded, dry areas. Its foliage is twice as large as that of the previous

BOBBIE SCHWARTZ, FAPLD Bobbie’s Green Thumb

Arabis caucasica

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Geranium and is more deeply lobed. The pink flowers bloom at the same time as those of G.cantabrigiense

Campanula poscharkyana (Serbian Bellflower) has heart-shaped leaves that grow on long runners and bear star-shaped lavender flowers from the beginning of May through the first week of July. Grow this one in full sun or partial shade in average to dry soil. It will do very well among the roots of trees. Mine originally cavorted happily under an old dogwood. When the dogwood died, I transplanted the Campanula to a container beside my side door. Happily, it seeded into the gravel bed beneath.

The strands of Lamiastrum galeobdolon (Yellow Archangel, Golden Dead Nettle) will root wherever they touch the ground so save this one for very large shady spaces. The green and white variegated foliage will wind in and out of tree trunks and other plants. Although slow to establish, it will spread more quickly if initially irrigated. Short yellow flowers pop up in May but deadheading is not necessary.

Although most ornamental grasses do not remain evergreen, the few that do would serve well in these situations but you would need to plant them more closely in order to better shade the ground. Both Festuca ovina glauca (Blue Fescue) and

Helictotrichon sempervirens (Blue Oat Grass) have steely blue foliage that keeps it color twelve months of the year and both have wheat-colored inflorescences in early to mid-summer that are attractive but showy. My favorite fescue cultivar is ‘Cool As Ice’ that is larger than the species. All fescues grow twelve inches high while the Blue Oat Grass grows twice that size. Festuca will grow in full sun or light shade and slightly moist to dry soil but Helictotrichon requires full sun and dry soil.

Another blue-evergreen is Elymus arenarius (Blue Lyme Grass) but care must be taken with its use. While the two grasses mentioned above are clumpers, this one is a rampant runner. Placed on the right site, this can be a definite advantage. Again, full sun and average to dry soil.

For shady sites, Liriope (Lily-Turf) makes an excellent substitute for grass. Liriope muscari has many cultivars. ‘Big Blue’ has especially large flower spikes held well above the foliage while ‘Monroe’s White’ is the only white-flowered one. There are also some with variegated foliage, always a plus in the shade. While L.muscari is a clumper, its cousin L.spicata is a runner and copes easily with shallow tree roots. Both grow only twelve inches high. If the foliage becomes tattered during the winter, a quick pass with the weed whip or a mower will take care of that.

Arabis caucasica interplanted with Narcissus ‘Tiny Bubbles’ and Anemone blanda white and blue.

Geranium cantabrigiense ‘Biokovo’. Campanula poscharkyana ‘Blue Waterfall’.

Lamiastrum galeobdolon under my Magnolias. Festuca ‘Cool As Ice’ en masse. Liriope muscari ‘Variegata’ used as edging in shade.

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• Natural Stone - Palletized

• Ground Rubber Mulch

The Carex family also has members that can be used as evergreen groundcovers, some for sun and some for shade. Carex oshimensis ‘Everillo’(Everillo Japanese Sedge) will grow in either sun or partial shade at twelve inches as a dense mound of foliage. Its foliage is yellow and really brightens up shady spots. Carex ‘Ice Dance’ has a wide white edge. Mine is growing under the worst of circumstances - very little light and only as much moisture as Mother Nature contributes. In the past few years, I have started using Carex ‘Feather Falls’ that is also variegated but has a finer texture and is wider. I grow it in both part shade and full sun. An excellent Carex for sunny wet places is C.muskingumensis (Palm Sedge) which will grow 18-30” and slowly creeps along the ground. This one looks more like a miniature palm than grass as do the other Carex.

Give the old threesome a rest and try something different!

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).

Carex oshimensis ‘Everillo’ in shady front yard.

Carex ‘Feather Falls’ in shady patio garden.

M3

SAVING FOR COLLEGE

With mortgages to pay and clothes to buy, many families have difficulty finding the extra money to save for college. In addition, the markets have not helped the people who have been saving over the last decade. A time crunch has been an equally important deterrent against creating a college-savings program. The vast array of college-savings vehicles (529s, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, UTMA/UGMAs) seems hopelessly complex.

Nevertheless, avoiding the issue won’t make it go away, and the sooner you tackle it, the better off you are. Plus, there are a number of college-savings solutions out there that you might not have considered.

STEP 1: RESIST THE URGE TO STAND STILL.

Thanks to compounding, a dollar saved today is usually much more valuable than a dollar saved 10 years from now. And even if you manage to save only a small amount between now and the time your child is ready for college, he or she is going to have to borrow that much less for tuition. The key is taking that first step.

STEP 2: DON’T PLAY CATCH-UP BY CHASING OVERLY RISKY INVESTMENTS.

Instead of sitting still, some parents who fear that they won’t be able to afford skyrocketing college costs might be tempted

to do the opposite: swing for the fences in the hope of hitting it big.

But as anyone who bought an internet stock in the late 1990s, an emerging-markets fund in early 2008 or invested with the volatility of the last four years will tell you, investments that have posted big past returns often carry extreme risks. Thus, the best way to save for college isn’t to concentrate in a single risky stock or sector but instead to build a welldiversified portfolio with a stock/bond mix that suits your child’s time horizon. Bear in mind that if your child’s college years are drawing near, you’ll want to be taking fewer risks with any money you have earmarked for college, not more. While savings for children under 10 might be feasible in stock funds, storing more and more of your child’s college savings in cash and bonds as they make their way through high school is sensible.

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MICHAEL J. DONNELLAN

Wealth Management

continued from page 12

True, bonds and cash normally don’t have the same return potential as stocks do. But if you’re afraid that your college savings will come up short when it comes time to matriculate, your best option is to plan to save more, or plan to rely on loans and financial aid, rather than venturing into inappropriately risky investments.

STEP 3: CONSIDER A 529 PLAN.

529 college-savings plans have their downsides, which can include higher expenses and limited investment choices. But given that 529s permit extremely generous contributions and offer some tax benefits to boot, these programs can be ideal for late-start college savers who need to sock away as much as possible in a short period of time. The key is to choose carefully.

Money invested in Section 529 college-savings plans can be used at any college in the United States. There are no earnings restrictions on who can contribute to a 529 plan. Contributions to a 529 plan can grow free of federal taxes, you can take tax-free withdrawals to pay for college expenses, and you may also enjoy a state-tax break. Finally, the 529 assets are held in the parents’ name, meaning that these assets receive more favorable treatment than the child’s assets, such as UTMA/UGMA accounts, in financial-aid calculations.

With the Secure Act 2.0 going into effect this year, there are also some flexibility to roll unused 529 Plan assets into a Roth IRA.

STEP 4: ACCENTUATE THE POSITIVE.

Even if you haven’t established a dedicated college-savings fund, you have other options at your disposal.

Regardless of your savings vehicle of choice, meet the collegesavings challenge head-on. Addressing the issue sooner rather than later will likely save you lots of headaches down the road.

Saving for college usually involves a couple different strategies. You have to diversify, assess your risk and rebalance on a regular basis. Talk to your financial professional to help with your specific needs.

Scenarios illustrated are hypothetical in nature, results may vary. Investing is subject to risk which may involve loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

The M3 Wealth Management Office does not provide legal or tax advice. Consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific situation. The information herein is general and educational in nature and should not be considered legal or tax advice.

Michael J. Donnellan specializes 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

Phone: (800) 478-0788

KEEPING NEW EMPLOYEES SAFE ON THE JOB

Keeping employees safe on the job site is of utmost importance, and making sure that new employees are trained and well-versed in correct workplace safety practices is mandatory when bringing them into your landscaping company.

Did you know that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says that 40 percent of injured workers have been on the job for less than one year? The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) agrees that those who are new on the job do have a higher rate of both injuries and illnesses than workers who are more experienced.

The main reason for this, the BLS says, is that employers aren’t providing the appropriate amount of safety information to these new employees before they hit the job site.

Take a look at a few ideas you can implement into your company’s safety training program to make sure all of your employees are in the know when it comes to safety.

OBJECTIVES AND INJURIES

The easiest way to make sure that your new employees are on the up-and-up with your landscaping company’s safety practices is to offer an orientation class upon hiring them that explains your safety program in detail.

During this time, be sure to go over every safety objective and goal for your company, and continue to drive home the point that every employee plays an important part in helping the company meet your safety goals.

“Training in the safe way for workers to do their jobs well is an investment that will pay back over and over again in fewer injuries and illnesses, better morale, lower insurance

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premiums, and more,” OSHA says online. “It is a good idea to keep a record of all safety and health training. Documentation can also supply an answer to one of the first questions an incident investigator will ask, ‘Did the employee receive adequate training to do the job?’”

Along with communicating your company’s safety goals and practices, be sure that new employees understand the importance of reporting accidents and injuries when they occur.

OSHA has specific requirements for record-keeping when it comes to reporting accidents and injuries, so it’s important to make sure new employees are trained according to these specific guidelines.

“Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace,” OSHA says online. “No person should ever have to be injured, become ill, or die for a paycheck. Many OSHA standards, which have prevented countless workplace tragedies, include explicit safety and health training requirements to ensure that workers have the required skills and knowledge to safely do their work. These requirements reflect OSHA’s belief that training is an essential part of every employer’s safety and health program for protecting workers from injuries and illnesses.”

OSHA recommends setting up an injury and illness prevention program in your landscaping company, which is a system that OSHA says can substantially reduce the number and severity of workplace injuries and illnesses.

OSHA states that most successful injury and illness prevention programs are based on the following elements: management leadership, worker participation, hazard identification, hazard prevention and control, education and training, and program evaluation and improvement.

EMERGENCIES, WARNING SIGNS, AND PPE

Regardless of how frequent or infrequent emergencies are at your company, it’s important that both new and old employees understand how to handle emergency situations.

Your landscaping company should have an emergency action plan in place, and all employees should be knowledgeable of the procedures they need to follow to protect themselves and their coworkers.

To keep the information fresh in their minds, consider reviewing this emergency plan as individual teams or as a company at different intervals throughout the year.

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In the green industry, there are many tasks performed that have a certain level of risk associated with them. To help keep employees in the know about what risks accompany which piece of equipment, there are warning signs and safety tags present in the work area.

Be sure to stress to new employees the importance of taking notice and heeding the advice of the signs when dealing with equipment and worksites. To help get ahead of this before setting foot on the jobsite, consider holding a quick class with new employees to show them the signs and symbols they will encounter during the workday, as well as the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) that accompanies them.

Speaking of PPE, it’s always a good idea to assess your jobsite beforehand and know exactly what kind of PPE your employees will need to bring with them.

When picking out your PPE, be sure it fits properly while also being able to fully protect employees from present hazards. Be sure to offer a training course to new employees to help them understand when PPE is necessary, as well as how to properly care for and maintain the equipment.

FIRE, LIFTING AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Another common safety measure is teaching new employees how to handle fires. You can begin fire safety training by going over different ways fires could start, either in the office or out on a jobsite, and cover what would be needed in each situation to extinguish the fire.

It’s also beneficial to take this time to show employees how to use a fire extinguisher, as well as where they are located both in the office and on the work trucks.

Even if your employees are in good physical condition, it’s always a good idea to talk with them about the proper ways to lift heavy objects when working. Most back problems and injuries are preventable, and there are numerous issues that can accompany improper lifting, bending and twisting.

Be sure to talk with employees and demonstrate the proper methods of lifting objects in different situations, as well as the importance of working together with other employees to lift things too heavy for a single worker.

Too many deaths occur due to exposure to electrical currents, so teach your employees how to recognize and identify possible electrical hazards, as well as the proper PPE to wear when dealing with electrical jobs.

HAZARD COMMUNICATION, LOTO AND HOUSEKEEPING

More and more workers are at risk for being exposed to hazardous chemicals, so during the orientation process, it’s a good idea to go ahead and educate new employees on any chemicals they will deal with in the workplace.

Be sure to give them information for handling and interacting with these chemicals, as well as what hazards accompany them.

New employees that will be servicing equipment, as well as those working nearby, should also be educated on lockout/ tagout (LOTO), which is a warning and prevention system for the release of stored energy and unexpected startup.

Keeping your company’s workplace clean and clutter free is one of the best indicators of a safe space, as it cuts down on potential slip and fall issues and health risks that come from working in a filthy environment.

Be sure to educate new employees on the importance of keeping their office space and vehicles clean, as well as how to properly store equipment and how to prevent, clean up and detect any spills or leaks that occur.

This article was written by Beth Hyatt Presley, former Associate Editor for Total Landscape Care, and was found via the National Association for Landscape Professionals’ (NALP) website. Get landscaping news and insights, plus howto guides and equipment reviews - delivered straight to your inbox - at www. totallandscapecare.com.

JIM FUNAI, PhD

Cuyahoga Community College

SHELLEY FUNAI, LIC

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

YUCCA FILAMENTOSA

ADAM’S NEEDLE & THREAD

In the early spring of 2012, we wrote about a plant that doesn’t rank very high on the list of go-to landscape plants here in Ohio, Yucca filamentosa. And, while we realize the odds of all our readers knowing this plant well is fairly high, after a recent trip to Mexico we were inspired to reconsider the value of Yucca in the Ohio landscape.

There are somewhere around 50 species of Yucca in the world – that we know of – comprising of “shrubs” in the 12-inch range (Yucca nana) all the way up to trees reaching upwards of 30-feet tall (Yucca elephantipies). For this article , we’d like to focus on an options that varies slightly by cultivar, but can be expected in settle somewhere in the 2 to 3-foot range, with a flower spikes reaching upwards of 6-foot tall.

So, why did a trip to Mexico make us revisit this plant? Well, as a member of the Asparagaceae family and more specifically the Agavoideae (Agave) sub-family, they have a very similar appearance to Agave (the plant responsible for tequila and mezcal). There are a TON of plants around Mexico and the southwestern United States that take on this appearance, with sword like leaves radiating out from a central point.

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Perhaps you’ve visited, or heard of, Joshua Tree National Park. This park is located just east of Los Angeles, where two major deserts (Mojave and Colorado) come together to make a very Western-looking film setting. As it turns out, the namesake of the park – the Joshua Tree – is Yucca brevifolia. You may even have one of the yucca houseplants in your home or office? These are Yucca gigantea and Yucca aloifolia. All of these have the same deserty, spiky leaf look that makes sense in the right setting.

What doesn’t make sense – setting wise – is the common use of Yucca in the Ohio landscape as a random spiky thing hanging out with no context. That said, we will admit that these plants have grown on use a bit since 2012, though we still cringe at the sitting of random yuccas in the lawn, or sitting in front of a house in a bed. It is important to note this is not a native plant as so often claimed to be. Native to North America? Yes. Native to Ohio? NO. This plant’s native range is from the Carolinas south to Florida and west to Louisiana. There are naturalized populations in Ohio and invasive populations across the world.

Rather than focus on what makes it a silly plant most of the time, we’re going to focus on the positive sides of the plant and offer some more informed siting for them. A major reason it is found across the world and naturalizing in so many is due

to the plant’s toughness. It is often found in sandy soils of poor nutrition and commonly found getting blasted with salt spray from the ocean. You can pop these into really bad urban settings and they’ll thrive. The only scenarios that seem to be their Achilles heel is overly wet soils, or deep-dark shade.

Where can we site these plants in our landscape that aren’t silly, you ask? Perhaps, if you are redoing the landscape at an appropriately themed restaurant such as Taco Bell, by all means, grab a Baja Blast and throw Yucca all around! Maybe around a pool where we are striving for a more tropical feel these can add a perennially available background to some potted accent palms. Stuck in an urban setting where there will be terrible soil and high salt? Perhaps this could help.

What we have found, as a key to reducing the odd look of the plant, is to plant in mass. We mean big numbers, over 9 in a tight mass. This is NOT an accent plant. It is too small and odd to pull that off. When in mass the unique texture can come to life and really add to the landscape. As we discuss this idea of massing, please know we do not mean a group of them with several feet between each one so you clearly see mulch between each plant. A shrub mass is meant to fill the space and have the plants touching.

As for where that plant massing goes? NOT by the sidewalk, steps, grass, or any location where someone can brush by them. They have a very spiky, sword-like, habit which is fun to look at but does not convey a sense of calm when walked by. Keep these deeper in the beds and soften them with other plants between the viewer and the plant. Hillsides can be very effective ways to display the texture, or try them in the mixed border towards the middle.

While you are utilizing this plant, we highly recommend selecting named cultivars to add more interest to the foliage effect you are going for.

‘Color Guard’ is a 2-foot by 2-foot selection with a bright, cream-yellow band down the center spine of each leaf. This leaf is flanked by dark-green on each side. This offers a very bright pop of color in partial shade gardens to great effect. In winter, the evergreen leaves change to a rose-pink in the center, which we admit is a pretty cool feature.

‘Bright Edge’ displays the opposite effect of ‘Color Guard’, showing a green central stripe which is flanked by yellow edges. We find that this cultivar is not quite as bright as ‘Color Guard’.

Finally, ‘Hofer’s Blue’ and ‘Blue Sword’ are very similar 3 by 3 foot sword mounds featuring bluish-green leaves which can offer a softer hue to overly bright areas of the garden.

All of these will get the odd, slightly out of place – yet interesting – 5 to 6-foot spike of white flowers. This spike will eventually turn into a giant stick with brown pods on it. Worry not though, as it isn’t too much to just snip these off after bloom to keep the “dead look” to a minimum.

We have learned from our own observations that these plants are far from what we would consider “deer-proof’ plants, as deer will eat them to the ground over a heavy snow winter. Fortunately, they seem to grow right back the next year!

Jim Funai, PhD, is full-time faculty at Cuyahoga Community College, a NALP accredited associate of applied science in hoticulture degree program. He has a PhD in Landscape Engineering and Forestry and is a Licensed Arborist. Shelley Funai is Grounds Manager at Stan Hywett Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio, which offers a historic estate designed by Warren H. Manning and a beautiful manor house museum.

EVENT INFORMATION

DATE & LOCATION

MARCH 28, 2024

GRANGE INSURANCE

AUDUBON CENTER

505 W WHITTIER ST. COLUMBUS, OH 43215

AGENDA

REGISTRATION / NETWORKING FOOD / CASH BAR

6:00 PM TO 7:00 PM

PROGRAM

7:00 PM TO 9:00 PM

COST TO ATTEND

MEMBERS: NO CHARGE

NON MEMBERS: $50

NOTE: MEMBERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO INVITE NON-MEMBERS TO ATTEND USING THE CODE 2024OLAGUEST.

REGISTER TO ATTEND BY MARCH 21, 2024

SPONSORED BY EMERALD SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSOR

OLA EVENING MEETING SERIES

OLA MEETINGS SERIES

OLA CENTRAL OHIO EVENING MEETING

Company Vision: A Map to Your Business’s Future

A vision is the mental picture of the future you desire. More than just a goal, a vision is the embodiment of your hopes and dreams in a particular area; the picture of what has not yet happened, but what the future may hold.

In business, having a clear vision is absolutely critical. It is an extremely powerful tool to achieve the results you want. It has a clear motivational effect on everyone within the organization. It creates an energy and enthusiasm, increasing commitment and fostering change. This is especially important in difficult or stressful times, as having a clear vision will produce persistence and remind you why you started.

Additionaly, having a vision not only provides a sense of purpose and direction for the business, it will help you define your short and long-term goals, and guide the decisions you make along the way.

Join us, March 28th, 2024, as Jerry Schill, CEO & President of Schill Grounds Management, discusses the importance of creating and sticking with your company vision. He will discuss:

• The importance of staying true to one’s vision over time.

• How vision effects the organization from leadership, to marketing, to profitablity.

• How his vision factors into the future of his company. (Aquisitions, Revenue, Etc.)

• And more...

GUEST SPEAKER

JERRY SCHILL / CEO & PRESIDENT SCHILL GROUNDS MANAGEMENT

Jerry Schill has received numerous accolades for his leadership in the Northeast Ohio business community and the commercial landscaping and snow management industry, including the National Leadership Award from SNOW Magazine and Lawn and Landscape Magazine. He is an active member of the Legislative Committee for the Accredited Snow Contractors Association (ASCA) and the Snow and Ice Committee for the Ohio Landscapers Association (OLA).

Jerry holds a B.S. in Business Management from Glenville College where he played football as a wide receiver. He is passionate about his family and serving others in the community. He is a youth sports coach in Lorain County, Ohio and the founder of Holiday Feast, an annual charity event that provides free holiday meals for thousands of people in the Cleveland area.

ABOUT SCHILL GROUNDS MANAGEMENT

For 30 years, Schill Grounds Management has built expert-level capabilities and a smart, professional team to meet the year-round needs of commercial clients who want beautiful, affordable landscaping and rapid clearing of snow and ice. With multiple facilities across the region and a large staff of landscaping and snow management specialists, they are committed to environmentally responsible solutions that improve the environment their clients have created for their tenants, shoppers, employees, and residents.

COURSE INFO

EHCT 20 HIGHLAND HILLS, OH 44122

AGENDA

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

8:30AM - 12:30PM CLINIC

COST OLA MEMBERS

BEFORE 03/22/24

AFTER 03/22/24

MEMBERS - $89 - $119 - $139 - $169 BEFORE

AFTER

4 CEU’S

OLA EDUCATION SERIES

Ever had a crew member inadvertantly damage a sprinkler head? Ever had one get a machine stuck in an area that’s being drastically overwatered? Or perhaps your clients are just in need of some basic irrigation controller programming? This practical course on Irrigation Repair and Troubleshooting will help teach your technicians the basics, while ensuring your customers stay happy!

The OLA is happy to offer this hands-on training event as an opportunity for field technicians to learn the basics of irrigation repair and troubleshooting. Participants will learn to identify the components of irrigation systems, operate and adjust irrigation controllers, and troubleshoot irrigation issues that commonly occur on residential and commercial job sites.

NOTE: Registration for this clinic will be capped at 30 attendees in order to keep groups small.

CLINIC INSTRUCTOR

JIM FUNAI, PHD., CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Jim Funai, PhD is the Assistant Professor of Plant Science and Landscape Technology at Cuyahoga Community College. In addition to being a Licensed Arborist, Jim has a PhD of Philosophy in the field of Urban Forestry through the Mendel University of Agriculture and Forestry. He also holds a Master of Science in the field of Agricultural and Extension Education Services from Colorado State University and an honorary degree in Urban Forestry from the China Agriculture University. He was named Outstanding Educator of the Year for 2022 by NALP.

Green Industry Websites

Green Industry Websites

6 PAGES THAT YOU NEED TO ADD, NOW!

Creating a website for the green industry might seem straightforward at first glance. It’s easy to put together a basic site that checks off all the essential boxes. However, this approach often leads to a common problem… The website lacks a certain depth or functionality. It doesn’t truly engage and convert visitors into leads. You don’t get many job applicants through it either.

The goal isn’t just to have any ol’ website but to have one that serves as a dynamic tool for business growth, effectively showcasing your services and engaging your target audience.

This involves a thoughtful process, starting with a solid outline or sitemap, that places your customer’s journey at the forefront, ensuring every page and piece of content is aligned with their needs and your business objectives.

Think of it as you would chapters in a book. At the center of this story is your customer (yes, not you). You are a supporting character guiding the customer to success.

But to do this, your green industry website needs the right content at the right places.

Most green industry pros don’t go far enough in telling this story, limiting the number of pages to the basic essentials:

• Homepage

• About

• Services pages

• Portfolio or Gallery

• Contact or Consultation or Quote

While these are important (and most obvious) pages for a website, there are 6 others that you should consider.

Over the years, we’ve viewed and analyzed hundreds of green industry websites. And we’ve been involved in the website design and development for many clients. Here are the 6 pages you should consider adding to your green industry website.

CUSTOMER CENTER

1053 Bank St. Akron,OH 44305 330-784-0456

www.acmefence.com

The bulk of the content on green industry websites should appeal to prospective customers. After all, the primary goal of a website is to get more quality leads.

But your website should also be a resource for your customers as well. The problem? Sometimes it can be hard for them to find customer-centric resources. The solution is creating a Customer Center on your green industry website.

One of Oasis Turf & Tree’s (www.oasisturf.com) most visited pages is their Customer Center. It helps that they have over 18k customers and send regular emails linking to this page.

Your green industry website’s Customer Center could include helpful links to certain pages. A few of these suggestions will be covered in more detail, later in this article.

Send a Picture or Note: Make it easy for them to upload images and ask questions.

Account Access: Give the direct link to your green industry software’s customer portal.

Gift Cards: Provide an easy way for them to purchase a gift for a friend.

Referral Program: Create an easy form for them to submit a referral.

Blog: Explore topics about improving their properties. Services Links: What other services do you provide?

Upcoming Events: Provide a calendar for education and community involvement.

Special Promotions: Offer special perks just for customers. Team Bios: Let them get to know the people who help them regularly.

CAREER CENTER

There are your primary prospective customers and then there’s another item that’s just as important… potential team members!

It’s common for green industry websites to have a page where they post current job openings and general information about employee benefits. But job seekers want more! If you’re going to compete with the hundreds of other landscape employer options out there, your potential team members deserve deeper content.

A Career Center is a hub that serves as a jumping-off point to deeper content. Some additional features to add include:

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Interactive Career Path: Give job seekers the ability to “choose their own adventure” as they click through various divisions, roles, etc.

Career Opportunities Video: Create a video showing the various types of roles that exist in your green industry company.

Job Position Pages: You can create quick links to various positions. When you click these “cards” it takes the visitor to an entire page about that position. (Bonus points if you put pay ranges on these pages!)

Compensation & Benefits Info: List them out and explain more if needed.

Process Module: Outline a simple 3-4 step process to go from a frustrated job seeker to having a career they love.

Team Quotes: Display quotes from your team members about what it’s like to work there. Include their name and role.

Company Culture Assets: If you have plenty, put all of these on a separate page. At a minimum, include a culture video on your Career Center next to some concise points.

Education & Training: Detail what courses you provide to improve your team’s skills and any certification or leadership programs you run on a regular basis.

Pro Images: Invest in professional photography of happy team members working on the job!

Career-Related Articles: You can create a separate blog all about recruiting topics! Anything from career advice, team

member profiles, and industry trends may be of interest.

Open Positions: Embed a link to your third-party job posting tool or update these opportunities regularly.

You can find an excellent example of a video tour for potential employees on Turfscape’s website (www.turfscapeohio.com).

TEAM PAGE

While an “About Us” page may explore your company’s overall story and values, a Team Page can give more information on the green industry pros who make the magic happen.

Remember this…people hire people. There are plenty of impersonal brands out there. Show your smiling faces and let people know who they’ll be working with!

It’s money well spent to invest in a professional photographer. Capture unique portraits of key leadership, administration, design, and sales team members at a minimum.

Beyond the headshots, creating a concise bio for team members is a great way for prospects and customers to get to know your team. Kingstowne Lawn & Landscape (www.kingstownelawn.com) team members were sent 5-6 questions and requested to reply with concise information.

Using their responses, brief bios written for their Team Page, so that when visitors click on team members picture, they can learn more about them.

FAQs

Make your customer journey easy. One great user experience feature is adding a FAQ page to your website.

Sit down with your team and brainstorm 50-75 of the most frequently asked questions from your clients. Organize these questions by category (general, billing, service-related, etc.) Then, write concise 2-3 sentence answers for each question. (Bonus, if you have an article that dives deeper linked to it.)

FAQs are an important page for a website. Put a prominent link in various places such as the main menu, footer, service pages, etc. A great example of a simple and organized FAQ page can be found on the Seacoast Turf Care (www.seacoastturfcare. com) website. Clicking a question expands the answer.

VIDEO GALLERY

It’s no surprise that people love landscaping marketing and recruiting videos. Whether they are a job seeker, prospective clients, or an active customer, many people prefer the richer experience of watching videos.

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After your company produces 6-8 videos, it’s helpful to be able to sort the videos by category so your green industry website visitors find the content that most interests them.

FYI, another bonus of a website packed full of quality, professional videos is that visitors will spend more time on pages (a great SEO signal to Google).

SERVICE AREA

Websites for green industry companies need to repeatedly reinforce where they perform their services. And, while it’s always a good landscaping SEO idea to include text references to areas you serve, make it more clear on a Service Area page. These visualizations can help prospective clients see where you perform work, even breaking it down by service division.

Tropical Gardens Landscape (www.tropicalgardenslandscape. com) uses an interactive map to show that it has a smaller service area for design-build projects than for some their other maintenance services.

There are a variety of places on your green industry website where you can have links to your service areas.

You could just add the map at these locations and a button to click to see this Service Area page in more detail or dive into more specific areas you serve on subsequent pages.

GIVE THEM WHAT THEY WANT

Your green industry website needs to be more than just functional; it should be a strategic asset that actively contributes to the healthy growth of your business.

Beyond your essential website pages, incorporating pages like these can enhance the user experience and effectiveness of your site. Spend the time and resources to invest in a quality website. In the end, it will establish you as a leader in your market. You’ll be the brand people want to do business with and reveal a workplace that team members are excited to join.

This article was written by Chad Diller, president of Landscape Leasdership, for the Landscape Leadership blog. If you like deep insights and examples of the industries best green industry marekting practices, join 5,000+ other green industry pros who subscribe and get articles delivered right to their inbox. Learn more at www.landscapeleadership.com.

ARE YOU UTILIZING THE OLA WEBSITE?

The OLA’s website is your key to unlocking a number of member benefits. I’d like to draw your attention to just a few!

First, be sure you know how to log into your account/profile. Logging in allows you to sign up for OLA events, such as evening meetings and our educational classes, at member prices. It also allows you to post jobs, update current employees working for your company, and so much more!

It’s important to note that our system will not recognize you as a member based on company name alone. You can add the ability to allow key employees to log into your account by making them “editors” in your company portal. Let us know if you need some assistance with signing in or adding employees.

Secondly, with the season about to be in full swing, it’s important to know that the website houses our consumer referral system. On our home page, property owners can search for landscape companies that offer specific services in specific areas. While we request this referral information directly from you when you join the OLA, we do not have everyone’s complete info. That said, it’s in your best interest to check this information yearly and update the services you offer, along with the areas you work in!

In that regard, we have added associate (supplier) members to this section of our site, but only if they sell to the public. A complete member search – including wholesalers and dealers that don’t sell to the public – can be found in the member portal under the tab “additional resources.”

SANDY MUNLEY Executive Director / OLA

Finally, and I doubt any of you will be surprised when I say this, the biggest issue we hear about from our members is that they are struggling to find employees. Everyone is scrambling to find staff members. It is frustrating to hear about high unemployment, yet no one is answering your help wanted ads. Or answering the ad and not showing up for the interview. Or accepting a position and not showing up for work. Or working a day or two and then disappearing. Ugh!

To help, as a free member service, we have a job board on our website. It is located under the “Career Center” tab. If you are not already logged in when you enter the site, there is a link to log in located at the top, right-hand corner of this page. In addition to posting jobs on our site for free, you can also choose to upgrade your free listing for a nominal fee of $35. The upgraded listing puts you on the top of the board and includes getting published in the Google Jobs Network, in addition to being on our site. Non-members can add jobs for a fee.

Additionally, to help with the need for more employees in the green industry, OLA continues to work with high schools and colleges in the state. We also advocate for the expansion of the H2B Visa program. While neither of these programs are website related, they are an important part of what OLA does to help members address workforce needs.

As always, if you need assistance with these benefits, we welcome your phone call or emailed questions.

Wishing everyone a safe, enjoyable, and prosperous spring!

REGULAR MEMBERS

1-866-666-SALT (7258)

Brady’s Landscaping LLC

2241 Prairie College St. SW Canton, OH 44706

(330) 415-4891

Brady Smith

McCausland Landscapes LLC

8496 W. Craig Dr. Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 (330) 604-4335

Kevin McCausland

Monte Man Landscaping

7629 Montello Road Independence, OH 44131 (216) 299-5084

Pasquale Monteleone III

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

Century Equipment, A Jerry Pate Company

2266 E. Aurora Road

Twinsburg, OH 44087 (513) 285-1811

Pracko’s Landscaping 4969 Mandarin Dr Seville, OH 44273 (330) 635-2611

Blake Pracko

Spisak’s Outdoor Creations 9826 York Rd. North Royalton, OH 44133 (216) 407-1930

Brad Spisak

Streb Property Management 8161 Lynway Avenue Olmsted Falls, OH 44138 (440) 241-2327

Dan Streb

Tier One Precast 150 Allen Avenue Orrville, OH 44667 (513) 470-0592

Austin Kunkel

11528

Mike Knepper