The Buckeye July/August 2018

JULY/AUGUST 2018 Vol. 29, Issue 4

The Official Publication of Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association

INSIDE:

RETAIL GARDEN CENTER 2018 BUS TOUR August 13, 2018 (See Page 9)

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July/August 2018 Vol. 29, Issue 4

The Buckeye is published six times per year by Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc. 72 Dorchester Square, Westerville, OH 43081 614.899.1195 | www.onla.org

EDITORIAL / ADVERTISING ISSN 1536-7940 Subscriptions: $75/year alana@onla.org OFFICERS Andy Doesburg, President Ward + Thornton Landscape Josh Posey, Immediate Past President Buckeye Resources, Inc. Tim Clark, President-Elect H. J. Benken Florist & Greenhouses, Inc. DIRECTORS James Beardslee Beardslee Nursery Lenny Garrard Bobcat Enterprises Columbus Tom Hilgeman Bower & Branch Ryan Kolb Ryan Kolb Co. LLC Mindy Moore Cardinal Landscape, Tree Service & Lawn Care Steve O’Neal Columbus State Community College Ellen Gallucci Purcell Riepenhoff Landscape Ltd. STAFF Ken Fisher, Executive Director Karen Lykins, Accounting Keith Manbeck, Sales Roni Petersen, Membership & Certification Alana Settle, Marketing & Communications Mary Ann Shrum, Education Tracie Zody, MGIX THE FINE PRINT The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, directors or staff and do not constitute an endorsement of the products or featured services. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or their identification as members of the ONLA does not constitute an endorsement of the products or featured services.

onla.org

CONTENTS 3

Executive Director's Message

4

President's Perspective

5

ONLA Event Calendar

6

Legislative Update

9

Retail Garden Center Bus Tour

15

Diagnostic Walkabouts

23

Introducing the new MGIX Series

27

Clay Shoot ONLPAC Fundraiser

29

Golf Outing

FEATURE STORIES 11

Retail Roundtable: Promotions

13

Marty Grunder's Leadership Advice

17

California Dreamin'

24

Landscape Design: Hot Tubs

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

2

New Members

28

In Memoriam

32

Classifieds

33

Calendar of Events, Advertising Index

July/August 2018

1

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS The following companies are applying for ACTIVE COMPANY Membership:

The following person is applying for PROFESSIONAL INDIVIDUAL membership:

Eric Stewart Enterprises 892 Chelsea Ave Bexley, OH 43209

Chad Early, Community Green Group

Group Management Services 3650 Olentangy River Rd Columbus, OH 43214

These companies and individuals have been approved for membership, pending the completion of the application process, which includes requesting comments from the ONLA membership regarding the qualifications and/or dues classifications of applicants. Please submit comments within three weeks of receiving this issue to info@onla.org, or call 614.899.1195.

Restoring the native landscape

ernstseed.com sales@ernstseed.com 800-873-3321

2  The Buckeye

7463 West Ridge Road P.O. Box 189 Fairview PA 16415 800.458.2234 Fax 800.343.6819 e-mail: info@FairviewEvergreen.com FairviewEvergreen.com

onla.org

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE Ken Fisher, ONLA Executive Director

What we do together matters when it comes to growing and protecting the future of our industry in Ohio and beyond.

“Better than Average” As you know by now, Ohio’s April was cold with below “average” temperatures all month and May was a complete turnaround with above “average” temperatures all month.

I guess the “average” is safe – but not necessarily the best barometer. From most business owners in the industry I’ve spoken with, after a slow April they “caught up” in May and the season is looking good. Better than “average” I’m told.

Definition of Hard Work: A Great Deal of Effort or Endurance We need more workers today and more people entering our industry tomorrow. I’m involved with a number of industry workforce development initiatives. There are programs to introduce horticulture to young students, others provide paid apprenticeships in association with vocational training, and still others promote a path toward business ownership.

Our Ohio High School Landscape Olympics, held this year on November 1–2, is arguably the best program of its kind in the country involving more than 200 high school students in landscape skills competition and introducing them to the best people and nursery/landscape companies in the region. I hope you will consider sponsoring and attending.

writes, “We work hard because we care. No one works hard for no reason at all. We have families to support, dreams to work toward, and customers to satisfy. We have an innate sense of liberty inside all of us. We do things in some instances to survive, others to amuse ourselves, but many of us make an impact because we want to leave a legacy.”

Thank you to all who have chosen this industry and the hard work you do to make it successful. Our industry has great people who display great character in the hard work and long hours committed. While we want more people to select our industry, only those who share our values of pride, of workmanship, and hard work need apply. I’m OK with that.

The late, great coach John Wooden once wrote, “Success travels in the company of very hard work. There is no trick, no easy way.”

Our team at ONLA is working hard to bring you programs to improve your business. Your membership and participation in ONLA events will encourage others to join. I appreciate your continued support of ONLA. Help us get the word out: the industry benefits from a growing ONLA membership.

Because “what we do together matters”. B

For prospective industry candidates, we can simulate the projects and accomplishments that our industry professionals create, but there isn’t a good way to simulate how hard you work. Young and old. Grower, landscaper, and retailer. And just about everyone who supports the activities that result in beautifully landscaped homes, businesses, and parks, carefully trimmed hedges, and manicured lawns. In season, the work is hard and the hours long. Many of you have to hire five workers to get two. “They don’t come back after lunch on the first day,” I’m often told. What our industry does is hard work requiring a great deal of effort and endurance.

My grandfather, a farmer, was fond of telling me, “you have to work from can until can’t…get up before dawn and work into the evening until you just can’t go any more. And get up and do it again the next day. Can until can’t.”

The work didn’t kill him. In fact, it kept him alive. Hard work was a value he was proud of and one that he held near and dear. In an online article I ran across recently, Chris Conner

onla.org

Ken can be contacted at ken@onla.org

July/August 2018

3

PRESIDENT'S PERSPECTIVE Andy Doesburg, Ward+Thornton Landscape

At our last ONLA Board of Directors meeting this June, we went around the table and shared how spring was treating us.

A common theme arose. Most of our board members reported that sales are up. Larger residential and commercial projects are flowing in. Companies continue to buy new equipment.

Growth is on the horizon, but labor issues are getting in our way. As Ken Fisher mentioned in his article, we were all in agreement– it’s not just difficult to find skilled employees, it’s challenging to find even inexperienced individuals who are willing to show up and put in the work.

I saw a photograph the other day of a 1940s-era production facility for Texas Pete hot sauce. A large sign hung above the factory workers that said: “Think. Jobs depend on sales.

Sales depend on quality. Quality depends on you.” While I don’t know how to fix our current labor pool’s work ethic, I agree with Ken that our industry can only benefit from a workforce who shares our passion, our pride, and our innate understanding that hard work pays off.

I’m confident that ONLA is doing what it can to promote the numerous benefits of working in this industry to our next generation in our state, through the successful Ohio High School Landscape Olympics. We are also joining our local and national partners in the fight to fix our immigration system so we can have a dependable migrant workforce. And there are several national organizations, such as NALP, Seed Your Future, and the National Institute for Consumer Horticulture, who are developing nationwide initiatives to showcase our industry.

But what can we do as companies now? I encourage you to consider sponsoring the Ohio High School Landscape Olympics, ONLA’s signature workforce development program. If you’ve sponsored the event in the past, consider investing a bit more this year. The more companies that invest in this program, the more students who will be able to participate. And as the competition becomes more prominent and starts to earn a reputation, our high schools’ and career centers’ horticulture programs will see increased enrollment.

That means a larger, interested, and skilled labor pool for us soon.

4 The Buckeye

As we as an industry begin to slow down this summer, I encourage you to take a look at how you’re using your ONLA membership. The power of networking and collaboration is not to be underestimated when it comes to solving problems and identifying how you can grow. Try to take one or two days off this summer and fall to attend an ONLA event. There is something for everyone on the event calendar.

In August, ONLA will host its first retail bus tour since 2013.

This tour will take a look at a few garden centers in Northeast Ohio. The following day, ONLA will attend NGLCO’s Summer Field Day. This event is always a highlight of the summer and is a great opportunity to meet some of the best growers in the state. In September, ONLA's annual Golf Outing will welcome around 100 golfers and a dozen sponsors.

If you’d like to support our advocacy efforts, please consider attending ONLA’s Clay Shoot fundraising event benefiting the Ohio Nursery and Landscape Political Action Committee, on Thursday, October 4. Even if you don’t consider yourself a huntsman, you can join us for dinner or sponsor the event.

Check out ONLA’s event calendar for more ways to get involved in your industry. If you’re hosting open houses or education programs, contact ONLA to be added to the calendar.

If you have questions about ONLA’s programs and initiatives, I’d like to hear from you. Thank you for your continued support as a member of ONLA.B

Andy can be contacted at adoesburg@wtland.com

onla.org

EVENT CALENDAR

2018 JULY 12 19 26

Diagnostic Walkabout, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo OCNT Testing, Westerville, OH Diagnostic Walkabout, BGSU Firelands

AUGUST 9 13 16

Landscape Industry Certified, Full Test, Wooster, OH Retail Garden Center Bus Tour, Northeast Ohio OCNT Testing, Westerville, OH

SEPTEMBER 6 14 20 20 21 28

Diagnostic Walkabout - Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens OHLO Sponsorship Deadline Diagnostic Walkabout - Sunset Memorial Park OCNT Testing, Westerville, OH Landscape Awards Submission Deadline Golf Outing - Sunbury, OH

OCTOBER 4 18 19

ONLPAC Clay Shoot Fundraiser, Medina, OH OCNT Testing, Westerville, OH Scholarship Application Deadline

NOVEMBER 1, 2 15

Ohio High School Landscape Olympics OCNT Testing, Westerville, OH

DECEMBER 12-13 MGIX Member Summit 31 Membership Renewal Deadline

2019 JANUARY 17

OCNT Testing, Westerville, OH

FEBRUARY 21 27

OCNT Testing, Westerville, OH Advocacy Day, Columbus, OH

MARCH 5, 7

MGIX Training Days, Dayton & Cleveland, OH

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE Belinda Jones, Capitol Consulting Group SPEAKING OF THE SPEAKER...

We knew that the Ohio House would be getting a new Speaker in January of 2019. Speaker Cliff Rosenberger (R; Willmington) was term-limited. So, for months, two different republicans had been jockeying to win favor amongst their peers to lock in the vote for Speaker for the 133rd General Assembly.

Rosenberger made it clear that his choice to be his successor was State Representative Ryan Smith (R; Bidwell). Smith has shown great leadership as chairman of the powerful House Finance Committee. He wielded the gavel overseeing the budget process with measured resolve accented with his slight southern Ohio drawl. Even so, he was being ardently challenged by a former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder (R; Glenford). Same party, same goals? One would think; however, the battle became bitter.

Behind the scenes, head counts showed that although Smith had the support of current members, the November election would be critical to the vote due to the number of open seats.

In an unprecedented fashion, Householder picked candidates who support him to run in the open seats AND against Smithfriendly incumbents. This forced many safe republican seats into spending money in the primary.

Meanwhile, Rosenberger made national headlines when he announced he was stepping down due to an FBI inquiry. As of the deadline for this article, details are light on the inquiry but the center of the investigation seems to center around lavish gifts and travel, some of which may have been funded by the pay day lending industry and/or significant republican donors.

The resignation put Speaker Pro Tempore Kirk Schuring (R; Canton) in charge but there is no precedent for a Speaker stepping down (only for what to do in his/her "absence").

The House came to a screeching halt. Bills were piling up and session couldn't be called until historians and lawyers could figure out the method for selecting a new speaker under these unique circumstances.

At the same time, House members were home in their districts running in their primaries. When the votes were tallied after the primary, the Householder candidates were majority winners; however, they will not be sworn in until January.

Determining leadership for the remainder of this General Assembly was the focus. Smith reportedly had 47 votes, three votes shy of the 50 votes needed and Schuring did not want to call for the vote until the 50 were solid. Householder did not put his hat in the ring for this speaker vote but instead backed State Representative Andy Thompson (R; Marietta).

6  The Buckeye

The House GOP was bitterly divided. House democrats supported Minority Leader Fred Strahorn (D; Dayton) for Speaker. All the while the Senate went about their business passing bills.

Ultimately, Representative Ryan Smith was elected Speaker but it took 11 rounds of a voice vote to get him to the podium.

Tempers are still flaring, grudges are being held and egos are bruised but the Ohio House has a new Speaker. And all are off to win the general election.

Could the FBI inquiry and the unprecedented majority party riff open doors for democrats to pick up a few seats? Time will tell.

For more information about Speaker Smith, visit his bio at: http://www.ohiohouse.gov/ryan-smith/biography "H2-OH" When Gov. John Kasich first took office, his first focus was the algae problem at Grand Lake St. Mary's and Lake Erie.

As we look ahead to "lame duck", the period following the November general election and December 31, the conclusion of the 133rd, we try to anticipate legacy issues for Kasich and we think Kasich's tenure may end as it began with a focus on water quality.

Much has been done to address the phosphorous issue.

Consider the passing of SB 150 which required ODA certification for farmers applying fertilizer on agricultural land over 50 acres. Farmers have overwhelmingly responded and the "4 R's" application practices are becoming the norm.

Then the General Assembly passed SB 1 which focused on the Western Basin of Lake Erie adding prohibitions of applying fertilizers and manure on frozen or saturated land, or within a certain range of anticipated significant rain. SB 1 also required an analysis of the effects of SB 1 by June 30, 2018. Recently, the House and Senate Ag Committees held a joint hearing where members heard testimony from the offices of the directors of ODA, ODNR and OEPA as well as a variety of stakeholders including the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation, the Ohio Agri Business Association, the Ohio Environmental Council and others. By all accounts, there has been a significant decrease in phosphorous use.

Even so, depending on weather conditions, Ohioans worry about HAB's (harmful algae blooms) on Lake Erie. The green goo is a visible reminder that this is a problem that can't be solved overnight. Kasich is widely known for his "fix it now" onla.org

approach and has urged his cabinet to come up with new measures.

Several weeks ago, the Ohio EPA released a draft "omnibus bill" that caught the agricultural community off-guard.

Among a variety of objectionable provisions in the omnibus bill includes adding "fertilizer" to the definition of "agricultural pollutant". Thus far, due in part to the outcry from ag groups, the OEPA has not been able to secure a legislative sponsor for the bill.

At deadline for this article, we are hearing that the Governor is exploring elements of the omnibus bill that he might be able to accomplish via Executive Order.

improvements. SB 299 passed quickly through the Ohio Senate. Here is a link to the LSC Analysis of this bill: http:// www.hannah.com/ShowDocument.aspx?BTextID=209317 While the OEPA omnibus bill is held at bay for now, it is having a public relations impact on agriculture as many newspapers are crying foul at the perceived power of the ag lobby and lack of effort by ODA. See: http://www. toledoblade.com/Op-Ed-Columns/2018/06/02/Whathappened-to-the-Ohio-Department-of-Agriculture.html We will, of course, keep you posted! B

Meanwhile, several bills have been introduced addressing water quality. Lead by Senator Randy Gardner (R; Bowling Green), Rep. Steve Arndt (R; Port Clinton) and others, companion bills SB 299 and HB 643 would allow equipment for the protection and preservation of Lake Erie to be purchased with proceeds from the Parks and Recreation Improvement Fund and appropriate funds. Also, a Senate Joint Resolution, SJR 6, which proposes to enact Section 2t of Article VIII of the Ohio Constitution to permit the issuance of general obligation bonds to fund clean water

Belinda Jones Capitol Consulting Group bjones@capitol-consulting.net 614.224.3855

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onla.org

5/23/18 6:11 AM

July/August 2018

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Making our Customer’s Lives Easier means we educate ourselves and provide ample educational opportunities for our customers.

We live up to this promise, helping our industry progress and thrive.

Wolf Creek is proud to be a Presenting Sponsor for the MGIX Member Summit.

Irrigation S Lighting S Water Features S Drainage WolfCreekCompany.com WolfCreekCo 8  The Buckeye

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onla.org

Retail Garden Center

2018 BUS TOUR

Monday, August 13, 2018

Join Us!

9:00–9:30 am Registration and Bus Pick Up at Petitti’s Garden Center - Mentor

Connect with colleagues and get inspired on this casual tour celebrating just a few of Northeast Ohio’s independent garden centers.

Learn how they’re tackling best practices in retail and grower operations, marketing, human resources, technology, and more.

Tour Petitti’s Garden Center - Mentor Tour Bremec Garden Center - Chesterland 12:30–1:00 pm Lunch Tour Petitti’s Garden Center - Bainbridge Tour Breezewood Garden & Gifts Tour Lowe’s Greenhouse 5:00 pm Drop Off at Petitti’s Garden Center - Mentor

Owners, managers, growers, customer service staff—all are welcome but space is limited!

Double the Fun For even more networking and business development opportunities, join ONLA at Summer Field Day on Tuesday, August 14, hosted by the Nursery Growers of Lake County.

Hotel information and tickets at nglco.com

To Attend the Tour: $30 for ONLA members $45 for non-members

Lunch and transportation between garden centers are included in registration fee

REGISTER BY AUGUST 6: ONLA.ORG/RETAILTOUR onla.org

July/August 2018

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10 The Buckeye

onla.org

RETAIL ROUNDTABLE

MARKETING & PROMOTIONS ONLA's Retail Committee weighs in on a new topic each Buckeye. Have something you'd like to see the committee tackle in a future issue? Email alana@onla.org.

Tim Clark, H. J. Benken Florist & Greenhouses, Inc.

We have used some of the same promotions over the years. We always put out an early spring newsletter where we include a coupon for $10 off a purchase of $50 or more. We follow that up with a Mother’s Day postcard with the same offer. The newsletter coupon expires at the end of April and the Mother’s Day postcard expires at the end of June so that they are not able to be used at the same time. We ran a petunia sale this year in early April that was fairly successful as well.

We had a fall festival for a number of years, but it was difficult to manage when the weather didn't cooperate and we were only set up for a single weekend. Too many times we were rained out so we eventually stopped doing it.

Jeremy Newell, White Oak Gardens

Spring promotions start in March with a tree/shrub/perennial special.

Late April sees a hanging basket promo which ends before Mother’s Day, and in late May/early June we host PerennialPalooza. Each of these spring promotions have been recurring for at least the last five years. Each has a discount on those specified items. Postcards go out to our in-house mailing list but the promos are available to all customers. Facebook ads and email blasts accompany the mailed postcards. We’re seeing increased effectiveness with Facebook ads and will probably continue to experiment with them.

Summer promos usually revolve around Make & Take workshops (e.g. Fairy Garden Weekend, Ice Cream Social). We advertise these through email and in-house.

Fall sees another postcard go out to our customers. Usually the autumn mailer doesn’t have anything on sale, it’s more of a "get inspired and decorate" message that showcases our seasonal product variety.

Again, email and Facebook posts promote this.

Our Holiday Open House is typically the Thursday evening before Thanksgiving. This is an after-hours, invite-only event for our top customers. We partner with a local winery who serves wine for customers. This is an opportunity for those customers to get an early holiday shopping experience, get inspired, and maybe pre-order custom greenery items. The Open House continues that weekend for all customers (sans wine!) with treats, cider, etc. We promote this event with a postcard, email, and Facebook posts.

Throughout the year, we try to be flexible and find opportunities to stay excited. Quick weekend pop-up sales might come up with discounts on specific plants or theme weekends. These promotions are only a part of our overall marketing strategy. We market year-round with a message of quality and service beyond just sales.

onla.org

Tony Sciambi, Buckeye Resources Inc.

Some of my customers start the season early by bringing people into their stores during early spring. These free seminars are held in the stores Saturday mornings about 11:00am. The following are some of their ideas: Birds: Have someone from your local Audubon Society give a presentation on how to attract birds to your yard. Have plenty of bird seed and bird houses available for sale.

Seed Starting: Have one of your local Master Gardeners demonstrate how to get started indoors. Have your seeds on display and have seed starting kits, trays, and seed starting soil in the demo area.

Other workshops include bonsai demos, vegetable gardening basics, container gardening, houseplant basics, and organic gardening.

Ron Wilson, Natorp’s Nursery Outlet

Spring and fall Plant Guide mailings (targeting our Plant Lovers Club members) have been successful. These 20–48 page books feature "Must Have" plants, new plants, solution plants, edibles, pollinator plants, custom services offered, etc., plus a coupon for a FREE plant or dollar discount. Around 25,000 are mailed to the most current active members.

A four-page handout (9,000 printed with a different coupon than the Plant Guide), promoting the Nursery, Nursery Outlet, special features, services, website, etc., is handed out in goodie bags and at various Home and Garden Shows and off-site garden talks/classes to target new customers.

We keep a major presence on social media, with updates every day that feature colorful plants, plants that solve solutions, pictures of plants at the Outlet, and answers to comments and questions.

For a "shotgun" approach, we will place a full page (sometimes multiple full pages) ad with a coupon in Reach Magazine, which hits 650,000+ homes.

In May, we promote Edibles Saturday, which features our huge edible selections, as well as locally known herbalists, produce garden managers, and our own edibles specialists on hand to assist and answer all the edibles gardening questions. This event usually takes place on Saturday either before or of Mother’s Day Weekend. It is heavily promoted on social media, radio, etc., and an ad is placed in Reach Magazine with a coupon redeemable that day only for a FREE vegetable plant with any additional purchase. The edibles area is absolutely packed for the day—which also spills into the rest of the retail sales area! B

July/August 2018

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onla.org

LEADING YOUR TEAM

BIRTHDAY REFLECTIONS Marty Grunder, Grunder Landscaping Co.

At the end of April I celebrated my 50th birthday. I can’t say I exactly looked forward to this milestone but, as my mom likes to remind me, aging sure beats the alternative. And while I’m not as skinny or as fast as I used to be, I’d like to think I’m a fair bit wiser than my younger self, and I know for certain I have a tremendous lot to be thankful for.

This was abundantly clear the morning of my birthday when I headed into what I thought was an early meeting with my leadership team and instead found my staff gathered for a surprise celebration.

As we feasted on bagels and pastries and coffee, Amber, our director of human resources and a longtime member of our team, proceeded to take us all on a walk down Memory Lane with a slide show highlighting key moments in the history of our company, which I started as a high-school student to make money for college. The show was moving and hilarious and humbling—there’s nothing like watching a video with your team of your 16-year-old self, tube socks pulled up to your knobby knees as you push a garage-sale mower over a lawn, to stop you from taking your current self too seriously.

The slide show also prompted me to reflect back on what I’ve learned over the years and what I wish I’d known when I was a young person starting out. By no means do I have all the answers now but, like all of you, I am always striving to get better. Here’s what I’ve figured out the hard way, so you don’t have to:

Know your worth and ensure you’re compensated for it.

The video Amber shared of me in the tube socks is actually from an old TV spot the local news station did after I called them to complain that the Holiday Inn had not paid us for mowing their grounds for ten weeks running. We charged $80 a week, and when you’re a high-school student in 1984 trying to launch a business (or just stay solvent), $800 is a lot of money. Unsurprisingly, once the TV spot ran, the hotel paid their bill.

Today, though our prices have gone up quite a bit since 1984, we have no problem collecting our due and don’t need a TV station’s help to do it.

That’s because now I know to be clear with our clients up front about their and our expectations and to get a signed contract in place. We require a deposit, and we invoice immediately once we’re done with a job and our clients are happy with the work we’ve done. If you find you have an accounts-receivable problem, you may very well have a customer-service problem; talk to your clients to see what the holdup is and work to get any issues resolved. Above all, be proud of the work you do and don’t be afraid to insist you’re paid accordingly for it.

But the truth is that the only thing that approach will get you is an ulcer and a very limited future. No company can grow or scale if it remains reliant on a single person. What’s more, no one person has the market cornered on knowledge and wisdom. Hire smart, communicate and instill in your team the vision you have for your company, and then empower them to make their own decisions and execute. Keep your eye on the bottom line and help correct course when you need to, but you’ll be surprised how much more your team can accomplish when they’re given the space, the tools, and the trust to deliver.

The customer may always be right, but you might not be right for the customer.

In our line of work, we’ve all faced difficult clients from time to time.

Some want to override our horticulture knowledge and ask us to install a full-sun plant in a shaded area. Others expect us to repeatedly perform tasks at their property that we haven’t contracted or budgeted for. And then there are those who seem never to be satisfied no matter how much we do to accommodate them.

When I was younger I would try to please everyone all the time. I’d politely defer to clients’ wishes regardless of how much I disagreed. I’d do everything to make them happy, even when it meant losing money on a job.

These days I still treat every prospect and client with respect, but now I know that not every customer is the right fit for my company and we’re better off politely passing on those jobs than filling our days with frustration.

Count your blessings.

As we watched the slideshow at my birthday celebration, I took a look around the room at all the wonderful team members gathered there who have helped make my company successful and my career fulfilling. I’ve been at this 36 years now and I still love coming into work every day, in no small part because of the people. And that is a milestone I’m proud to have met.

Contact Marty at marty.grunder@ grunderlandscaping.com

Hire smart, then delegate—but don’t abdicate.

It took me a long time to grasp this. In typical first-time businessowner fashion, I used to think the only way to get something done right was to do it myself. I also thought that, as the owner, it was my job to know more than anyone else on my team and to make every decision.

onla.org

July/August 2018

13

ROOTED TO GROW AVON BROADVIEW HILLIARD

SEPTEMBER 18, 2018

www.premierplantsolutions.com 14 The Buckeye

onla.org

2018 Diagnostic Walkabouts Walk, Talk, & Learn

Upcoming Events

Tim Malinich, Horticulture Educator with Ohio State University Extension, and other horticulturalists lead in-depth discussions of the art and science of scouting, diagnostics, and control of landscape pests.

These interactive, hands-on, in-the-moment experiences provide a unique alternative to traditional classes or passive reading. Attendees are invited to partake in in-depth discussions, ask questions, and take pictures for future reference. It’s an informal and comfortable learning experience.

7:30 to 9:30 am at:

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Thursday, July 12

Discussions are tailored to the audience, weather and time of year, and characteristics of the location—no two walkabouts are ever the same.

BGSU Firelands

To Attend:

Thursday, July 26

$45.00 for ONLA members $65 for non-members Pre-registration is required.

www.onla.org/walkabouts Presented in Partnership with:

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

Credits Available: 1 CEU Additional credits for LA CES, ISA and ODA certifications are pending approval. Check onla.org for details

Sunset Memorial Park Thursday, September 20

Ohio High School

Landscape Olympics NOVEMBER 1 & 2, 2018

A PROGRAM OF:

2018 SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES NOW AVAILABLE Join Us: ONLA.ORG/OHLO 16  The Buckeye

onla.org

CALIFORNIA

Dreamin'

A Report From the 2018 California Spring Trials Bart Hayes, Henry F. Michell Co., BHayes@michells.com

onla.org

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Although they are at a difficult time of year and it is hard to start thinking about next season, California Spring Trials, or CAST, (formerly Pack Trials) is the greenhouse industry’s big new product roll out. This year’s event was outstanding and there was far too much to see, but a definite theme was becoming apparent.

learning, it was on full display this year. There are, of course, hundreds of new varieties, breakthroughs in breeding, and new technology on display and it is a lot of information to process, but I want to take the opportunity to focus on some new potentially industry-altering advancements.

As ornamental plant breeders and suppliers get larger, they have taken a more forward-thinking approach to the industry. Not merely putting products out there and hoping they do well, many also put a great deal of time and energy into the research and development of new techniques and processes helping to ensure success.

Although there has long been a tradition of continual

There will be a lot of discussion over new varieties and they are not to be ignored, but the real story, for me anyway, is that not only is the greenhouse industry continuing the steady stream of new breeding, but is working to bolster and improve the stability of the industry, as well. The amazing work that is typically done behind the scenes was highlighted this year and it is a story worth telling.

PROVEN WINNERS Proven Winners has the best branded all-encompassing marketing program in the green industry, and along with some exceptional new introductions, they continue to present real market-driven consumer research to help them determine what plants to introduce and sell, the colors consumers are looking to purchase, and which plants work in combinations the best. They also make much of this information available to growers and consumers, as well as tutorials and targeted marketing and advertising, all based on their intense market research. My favorite new introductions from PW include the new Calibrachoa Superbells™ Doublette Love Swept (pictured above), a gorgeous new double flowered picotee, and the new Salvia Rockin’™ Fuchsia (page 17), a brand new color for the category.

18 The Buckeye

onla.org

DUMMEN ORANGE Dummen Orange has also been doing some intensive research into new product forms for growers and has come out with a new, industry changing technology called Basewell™ (left, top). This technology allows growers to bring rooted cuttings into their greenhouse directly from Dummen Orange’s off-shore production facilities, saving time in production, and labor in propagation.

It is hard to overstate how significant a development this could become. Many growers struggle to find the time and space to propagate plants from unrooted cuttings.

This new technology is likely to not only reduce labor, but crop time as well, resulting in savings.

However, just because Dummen Orange has spent time elsewhere, does not mean that they have reduced their focus on breeding new varieties. There were dozens of improvements and new introductions this year, especially in Begonias with the new Portofino™ series (left, middle) and in Petunias with the new Surprise Star colors (left, bottom).

onla.org

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SYNGENTA FLOWERS Syngenta Flowers made a big statement by displaying the capabilities that only a company the size of Syngenta can exhibit. A reinvigorated focus on developing thorough and detailed production and cultural guidelines for their products, researching new product categories, and post-harvest quality improvements for retailers and the end consumer were on display, furthering the all-encompassing message that Syngenta has been promoting for years. Also not to be overlooked was the release of seven (count ‘em, seven) all new series of plants to the market, the most significant being the new compact interspecific Pelargonium series Moxie™ (pictured below). Moxie™ Geraniums have many of the attributes of their Calliope™ Medium and Large Series, but in a smaller chassis for high density growing applications like 306 packs and 4-inch pots. Top Hat™ Begonias (left) are also an important new entry to the extra-large begonia market not only for their huge flowers and excellent performance, but they bring a new color, white, to the market.

20 The Buckeye

PANAMERICAN SEED PanAmerican Seed continues to prove why they are globally recognized as a leader in new product development.

For the past 10 years, Impatiens Downy Mildew has reduced a once vibrant and hugely popular plant to a showdown of its former glory. For the past 10 years, PanAmerican has been working quietly, but diligently, toward isolating and producing a new seed impatiens that is highly resistant to the disease and they have announced success!

Using traditional breeding methods (noGMOs) PanAmerican has developed a new series, similar in stature and performance to their Super Elfin series, with plans to release widely in the next two years. Recapturing this product class is great news for the entire industry and consumers looking to fill the shady spots in the landscape. As if this wasn’t big enough, the new Tattoo™ Vinca series (top left) brings unique patterns and colors to this category and several improvements in the Wave™ family of Petunias (top right) continues to raise the bar on ease of production and performance.

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NEW! OCNT ONLINE PROFILES Managing your certification just got easier.

View your records, add credits, and print your OCNT certificate online at onla.org. Just follow the instructions below or download a visual guide at onla.org/ocnt

To Access Your Online OCNT Profile:

1. Log in to ONLA.org with your username and password (Please contact roni@onla.org if you need this) 2. Under the My Profile area, select Manage Profile 3. Scroll down to the Content & Features area and select Professional Development

Journal Entries Tab

Under the Journal Entries Tab, you can add and keep track of the education credits that will go toward your OCNT renewal.

Your Entries • OCNTs are required to earn five Education Credits within a three-year period.

• In this tab, you will also see two listings that ONLA adds to your account: Your Renewal Date and, after ONLA has received payment, a listing for your Renewal Payment. Do not delete these entries.

To Add A Credit: Click on Add Entry. A pop-up form should appear.

• Certification/Program – Select your certification: Landscape, Garden Center, Grower, Master. (If you have more than one certification, but not a Master certification, you will need to enter the credit for each certification separately) • Credit Type – Select Education Credit • Entry Date – Add the date of the event • Description – List the title or a short description of the program you attended • Credits – Type 1 (or the number of days you attended a multi-day event) • Credits Expire – Leave blank, ONLA will complete this field • Score – Leave blank • Activity Code – If one is provided at an event • Click Submit Credits will be listed as pending until approved by the ONLA office.

Certifications/Programs Tab

Under the Certifications/Programs Tab, you’ll find an overview of how many credits you have on file for your upcoming OCNT renewal.

When your OCNT requirements of five approved Education Credits and your renewal payment are fulfilled, you may print your certificate using the icon to the left of your certification listing.

Questions?

Contact ONLA at 614.899.1195 or email Roni Petersen,

A program of:

Membership and Certification Manager at roni@onla.org.

22 The Buckeye

onla.org

- Introducing a New -

MIDWEST GREEN INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE ONLA’S SIGNATURE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & NETWORKING SERIES MGIX Member Summit

MGIX Training Days

MGIX template.indd 1

December 12–13, 2018

New venue. New dates. New experiences.

This premier, two-day event provides a focused, solutions-based learning and networking experience for business owners and team members in the landscape and nursery segments.

Industry Connections ONLA's annual conference is the ideal place to foster relationships with fellow members. Collaborate with peers over round-table discussions, meet with event sponsors over lunch, and recognize—or aspire to be—the best in the industry during ONLA's annual awards celebration.

Gear Up for Spring!

Preliminary Schedule Wednesday 7:00 am: Registration 8:00 am: Keynote Presentation 9:30–11:45 am: Breakout Sessions 12:00 pm: Networking Lunch 1:30–6:15 pm: Breakout Sessions and Roundtables

March 5, 2019 Sinclair Community College Dayton, OH

Thursday 7:00 am: ONLA Awards Celebration & Breakfast 8:30–11:45 am: Breakout Sessions 12:00 pm: Networking Lunch 1:15–4:15 pm: Breakout Sessions

Connect with colleagues, train your employees, and learn new skills to grow your business. These one-day programs will feature education sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities for growers, landscapers, and retail garden centers.

More details will be announced soon!

Top-Notch Education Terri McEnaney, President of Bailey Nurseries, will kick off the Summit with a keynote presentation. Breakout tracks will dive deep into the best practices and emerging trends surrounding landscape design and maintenance, business management, pest and disease control, and growing, selling and working with plants.

Venue: Hilton Columbus at Easton Enjoy top quality service and accommodations in this newly renovated hotel located in the heart of Easton Town Center—one of Columbus’ best shopping, dining and entertainment complexes and a premier attraction during the holidays.

You’ll have access to dozens of restaurants for after-hours experiences and team/client dinners.

Tickets: $295 per person, includes all education sessions, keynote, lunches, and awards breakfast. Enjoy complimentary morning coffee and afternoon snacks.

The ONLA hotel block rate is $162 plus tax per night, with free parking. Hotel reservations will be available soon.

Presenting Sponsors:

March 7, 2019 Cuyahoga Community College Corporate Career Center East Warrensville Hts., OH

Become a Sponsor Connect with like-minded professionals and grow your business through rewarding sponsorship opportunities.

A limited number of sponsorships are available. Please contact Keith Manbeck at keith@onla.org or call 614.899.1195 to learn more.

Learn More: onla.org/mgixseries

4/16/20

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH HOT TUBS? Bobbie Schwartz, FAPLD, bobbie@bgthumb.com The idea of having a hot tub is alluring but most clients don’t think about the fact that most of them are downright ugly. So, the question becomes how we, as landscape designers, can integrate them into the landscape instead of plunking them down on the patio.

Convenience is a huge factor. Most clients will probably want the hot tub close to the house. If the client is lucky enough to have a ranch house with the master bedroom on the first floor, the logical site is right outside the bedroom. Sliding glass doors would afford direct access to the outdoors. If they don’t exist, you might suggest cutting through that solid wall to install such doors although that would necessitate incurring a major expense. If that is not a viable option, ask which room and door the client would use to access the hot tub.

One alternative to above-ground placement is in-ground placement. Another option is placing the hot tub under a deck in space that is often wasted.

I have seen one other solution that I regard as brilliant. In a New Jersey garden, where the backyard slopes steeply, there is a wooden staircase that leads from the gated entrance up the two-level deck. In between the levels, encased below one of the landings, is the hot tub with a hinged lid that is part of the landing. What a clever solution for lack of space and the desire to avoid seeing the hot tub when it is not in use.

The two most common sites for hot tubs are patios and decks.

The hot tub can be placed on the patio itself or it can be placed in a bed adjacent to the patio.

Many tubs are so high that a small ladder or set of steps is required for access. Privacy may also be an issue if houses are so close that the neighbors can see when the client is using the hot tub. A homeowner in Portland, Oregon solved both problems by building steps from the patio nearly up to the top of the hot tub and curtaining the space. Steps that match the material of the patio create a very classy surround for a hot tub.

As mentioned above, most hot tubs are not terribly attractive.

Consider encasing yours in material similar to that of the patio so that it seems part of the patio rather than an intruder.

What is your solution to siting a hot tub? If you're proud of a recent hot tub installation, send a photo to alana@onla.org to be printed in the next Buckeye magazine. B

24 The Buckeye

onla.org

Left: The color of the stone patio is echoed in the stone used to encase the circular spa.

Above: A color compatible hot tub has been sited on the patio near the dining area and fire pit.

onla.org

Below, Left: This in-ground hot tub sits just outside the house and adjacent to the patio. It is set in the middle of wide paver panels. The color of the cover echoes that of the pergola in the background and the house exterior.

Below, Rght: This hot tub is accessible from the patio/backporch and is shielded from the neighbors for most of the year by a large deciduous tree.

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COMING SUMMER 2018

AMERICANA COLLECTION old

new

614.252.0955 ▪ 800.845.7644 ▪ oberfields.com

ONLPAC

CLAY SHOOT 2018 Fall Fundraiser Thursday, October 4, 1–4:30 pm Co-hosted by:

About the ONLPAC Ohio’s green industry can’t take a passive approach to advocacy. A political action committee strengthens our collective story with proactive leadership.

Enjoy a day with friends and get to know your fellow colleagues in the green industry while raising money for the Ohio Nursery and Landscape Political Action Committee. The afternoon includes a 16-station clay shoot course, dinner and raffle prizes.

Bring your own shotgun and ammunition. A limited number of shotguns will be available for rental. Ammunition may also be purchased onsite. Ear and eye protection are mandatory and are also available to purchase.

Proceeds benefit the Ohio Nursery and Landscape Political Action Committee, an important component of Ohio's green industry advocacy efforts.

To Attend:

The Ohio Nursery and Landscape PAC financially supports political candidates who have shown a commitment to understanding our industry and the challenges our businesses face. These candidates can beneficially influence legislative issues related to Ohio’s green industry. They may have a voting record and positions on issues impacting the green industry, or have relevant committee assignments or leadership roles.

$75 PAC donation includes 16-station course and dinner $35 PAC donation for dinner only Pre-registration is required. Registration deadline: Friday, September 14 Sponsorships Available!

Consider your PAC donation an important investment to protect your business, amplify your industry’s voice, and ensure our continued successes. A strong PAC means a larger impact.

Register: www.onla.org/clayshoot

Learn more at: onla.org/ONLPAC

onla.org

Tuliptree canopy

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IN MEMORIAM Thomas L. “Tom” Uncapher, age 48 of Sunbury died unexpectedly at his home, Monday, April 30, 2018.

certified Arborist and could tell you what trees you had, and which ones would be best for your particular yard.

Tom was born on November 19, 1969 in Mansfield, Ohio the son of Stanley S. “Stan” and Luan (Fry) Uncapher. While born in Mansfield, Tom was raised on the farm in Chesterville. This life as a “farm boy”, cultivated his love of the outdoors and taught him the value of an honest day’s work.

Tom never met a stranger and fed off the energy of being surrounded by friends and family. He enjoyed camping and loved his, “beer, Buckeyes, and trucks”.

He was a graduate of Highland High School in the class of 1988 and Columbus State Community College. He was extremely proud of his service in the United States Army Reserves where he was a Sgt. with the 109th Transportation Unit out of Mansfield. He was called up briefly during Combat Desert Storm.

On September 2, 2000, Labor Day Weekend, he married Heather Kohn in Columbus. Together they were raising three beautiful children; Alexander, Jessica, and Andrew Landscaping ran through Tom’s blood; his career spanned 21 years, starting with TrueGreen and leading to his ultimate dream, owning and operating a successful business. Uncapher Landscaping started over 10 years ago with Tom strapping a wheel borrow to the top of his Oldsmobile Bravada to mulch for newly established clients. He didn’t just run the business from his office, he loved spending days out with his crew. He was a

28 The Buckeye

His legacy will be that of his wife and 3 children. He was committed to them and worked to provide for them. He knew they were growing so fast, he worked to spend as much time as possible.

In addition to his wife and children Tom will be missed by his mother Luan of Delaware; sister Lory (Frank) Meredith of Sunbury; Uncle William Fry of Mansfield; Aunt Barbara Clark of Upper Arlington; mother and father-in-law John and Carol Kohn of Powell; sister-in-law Amanda (Christopher) Dickson of Powell; brother-in-law Shawn Kohn of Elkhart, Indiana; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his father Stan in 2015 and his brother Dale in a farm accident.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Heather to assist with Alexander’s, Jessica’s, and Andrew’s education. Special memories and condolences can be shared with them at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com .

onla.org

ONLA GOLF OUTING FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2018 • BENT TREE GOLF CLUB • SUNBURY, OH Benefits the Ohio High School Landscape Olympics

$100 per player 10 am: Shotgun start 3 pm: Cookout & awards

Registration Deadline: September 7, 2018

Register online at onla.org/golfouting, or return this form along with payment information to ONLA, 72 Dorchester Sq., Westerville, OH 43081. Questions? Contact karen@onla.org or call 614.899.1195 REGISTRATION INFORMATION Company: Contact Name: Mailing Address: City, State, Zip: Phone: Email: GOLFERS Name: Company: Name: Company: Name: Company: Name: Company: PAYMENT Number of Golfers x $100.00 each Total Due

___ Check (Payable to ONLA) ___ Visa

Card Number: Exp Date:

___ MasterCard

3 Digit Code:

Cardholder Name/Signature: onla.org

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SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Proceeds benefit the Ohio High School Landscape Olympics

PRESENTING SPONSOR - ONE AVAILABLE! Welcome golfers & distribute awards during cookout $2,000 HOLE SPONSOR - 18 AVAILABLE! Company name on tee sign at hole. $650​ ​GAME SPONSOR - ONE AVAILABLE Conduct corn-hole game $750 ​ BEVERAGE CART SPONSOR - TWO AVAILABLE! Ride in beverage cart with company signage displayed $750

CONTEST SPONSOR - THREE AVAILABLE

Hole in One Sold to Bobcat Enterprises Longest putt Longest drive Closest to the pin $750 ​ ​COOKOUT SPONSOR - TWO AVAILABLE! Company advertisement on signage during cookout $850 DOOR PRIZE SPONSOR Donate an item of your choice!

RECOGNITION In addition to the above, all event sponsors receive: One golf foursome and meals at event ($400 Value) Logo on event t-shirt and event signage. Recognition on ONLA’s website, social media, and in The Buckeye

SPONSORSHIP DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 7, 2018 Contact Karen at karen@onla.org or 614.899.1195 SPONSOR INFORMATION Company: Contact Name: Mailing Address: City, State, Zip: Phone: Email: I would like to support ONLA with the following sponsorship: I would like to donate the following door prize: Door Prize Estimated Value: PAYMENT

Card Number:

Total Due

Exp Date: 3 Digit Code:

___ Check (Payable to ONLA)

Cardholder Name:

___ Visa

Cardholder Signature:

___ MasterCard

30 The Buckeye

onla.org

GET CERTIFIED IN 2018!

Become an Ohio Certified Nursery Technician WHY? • Improve your skills and increase your worth as an employee •

Gain recognition from the public, colleagues and competitors

•

Provide professional development for your employees

2018 TEST DATES July 19, August 16, September 20, October 18, November 15 SPECIALIZATIONS: Landscape The public, architects and contractors have come to rely on landscape contractors and installers for dependable landscape construction techniques and horticultural expertise. In order to provide sound scientific horticultural advice and proper installation, the landscape installer must be knowledgeable in a wide variety of areas including plant identification, plant usage, plant health, soils, turfgrass management, use of pesticides, construction techniques, design, sales and more.

Grower The grower is the base of the green industry. In order to have healthy plants to sell, the nursery employee must be knowledgeable in a wide variety of subjects including plant identification, development and health; growing and harvesting techniques; plant nutrients; pest and disease elimination; plant maintenance and more.

Garden Center The retail garden center is the information center on which homeowners have come to rely for dependable horticultural expertise. In order to provide sound scientific horticultural advice to customers, garden center employees must be knowledgeable in a wide variety of subjects including proper plant usage, plant health, soils, turfgrass management, landscape design, proper planting and maintenance of nursery stock and more.

Core Core is important to all aspects of the Green Industry. Plant ID, Professionalism, Safety & First Aid are examples of the Core chapters of which all nursery and landscape professionals should have knowledge.

A program of:

TRAINING MANUAL ORDER FORM NAME: COMPANY: ADDRESS:

CITY:

STATE:

PHONE #:

E-MAIL:

Check enclosed Check #:

Card Number: Exp. Date: Card Holder: Signature:

3-digit:

VISA

MasterCard

ZIP:

MEMBER RATES (Call for non-member pricing) * Landscape + Core ______ x $125.00 = $_______ Garden Center ______ x $75.00 = $_______ Grower ______ x $75.00 = $_______ All Manuals ______ x $250.00 = $_______ Replacement CD Rom ______ x $25.00 = $_______ Total = $_______ * Written Manual and Computer Based Training CD Rom for each

Return to: The Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association • 72 Dorchester Square • Westerville, OH 43081-3350 Ph: 614.899.1195 • 800.825.5062 • F: 614.899.9489

onla.org

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Growing High Quality Plants, People, and Relationships

SERVING GARDEN CENTERS AND LANDSCAPERS SINCE 1978

Annuals Combo Planters Grasses Hardy Ferns

Delivery Services Custom Growing POP Materials

Herbs Peonies Perennials

Proven Winners® Succulents Vines

Now growing Proven Winners® shrubs

p. 800-948-1234 f. 877-964-6446 sales@millcreekplants.com www.millcreekplants.com 15088 Smart Cole Road, Ostrander, OH 43061

Landscape Designer/Estimator Barnes Nursery Inc. Huron, Ohio The Landscape Designer/Estimator will be responsible for: • Preparing site plans, specifications and project estimates.

• Prepare bid/quote documents, present project estimates to customers, and follow through on sales leads.

• Designing projects using computer-aided software and by hand.

• Selecting appropriate materials for use in landscape designs.

• Working with installation crews to achieve total customer satisfaction; willing to participate in installations.

• Following projects from design phase to completion.

• Inspecting landscape work to ensure that it adheres to original plans.

• Meeting with clients building long-lasting partnerships/relationships.

In order to be considered for this position, candidates must possess: • College degree or equivalent industry experience.

• Focus on customer service.

• Possess excellent time management skills.

Preferred Qualifications include: • Previous work experience in the landscape/ construction industry.

• Experience working with hardscapes.

• Resume and completed job application are required in order to be considered for the position.

Job Type: Full-time

Mineral and Peat Grown Sod for Sun and/ or Shade, Blue Grass Blend, Improved Tall Fescue, Fine Leaf Fescue & Blue Grass Mix Contract Grown to Specifications.

Shredded Topsoil, Peat, and Custom Blending (Delivered or On-Site) Bark Mulch, Ties Custom Hauling

14349 Burton City Road Orrville, OH 44667 http://www.medinasodfarms.com 330-683-2916 "Ohio Grown PROUDLYfor over 50 years!"

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Send your resume and portfolio if applicable to awagner@barnesnursery.com.

CLASSIFIEDS Business Opportunity: Manufacturer of landscape and nursery equipment selling due to health. Ideal buyer would be someone already marketing their corollary product line into this industry. This product line has strong bottom line contribution margins, excellent reputation in the marketplace, and is patent-protected.

Contact: Contact businessoppor@yahoo.com.

Ads listed here were current as of press time. For details, or to place a classified ad, visit onla.org/careers

onla.org

UPCOMING EVENTS

ADVERTISER INDEX

View www.onla.org/events for more information.

O designates qualifying OCNT recertification events.

Arborjet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 arborjet.com

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Diagnostic Walkabout 7/12/2018 Cleveland, Ohio onla.org/walkabouts

O

Buckeye Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 buckeyeresources.com Ernst Seeds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

IPPS Sharing Across Borders O 7/25/2018 Painesville, Ohio

ernstseed.com Evergreen Seed Supply.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

BGSU Firelands Diagnostic Walkabout O 7/26/2018 Huron, Ohio onla.org/walkabouts

evergreenseedsupply.com Fairview Evergreen Nurseries. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 fairviewevergreen.com

Retail Garden Center Bus Tour O 8/13/2018 Northeast Ohio onla.org/retailtour

Green Velvet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 greenvelvet.com Medina Sod Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

NGLCO Summer Field Day 8/14/2018 Madison, Ohio

medinasodfarms.com Millcreek Gardens LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Plant Trials Day Symposium O 8/30/2018 Cincinnati, Ohio Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens Diagnostic Walkabout 9/6/2018 Akron, Ohio onla.org/walkabouts Sunset Memorial Park Diagnostic Walkabout O 9/20/2018 North Olmsted, Ohio onla.org/walkabouts Cleveland Grows! GWA Regional Meeting O 9/21–22/2018 Cleveland, Ohio Golf Outing 9/28/2018 Sunbury, Ohio onla.org/golfouting Clay Shoot ONLPAC Fundraiser 10/4/2018 Medina, Ohio onla.org/clayshoot Ohio High School Landscape Olympics 11/1–2/2018 Wooster, Ohio onla.org/ohlo MGIX Member Summit O 12/12–13/2018 Columbus, Ohio onla.org/mgix

millcreekplants.com Oberfields. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

O

oberfields.com Premier Plant Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 premierplantsolutions.com Spring Meadow Nursery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 colorchoiceplants.com Unilock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC unilock.com Wolf Creek Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 wolfcreekcompany.com

Ad Rates & Info Contact Alana Settle, alana@onla.org, 614.899.1195

Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association 72 Dorchester Square Westerville, OH 43081-3350 Address Service Requested

DIAGNOSTIC WALKABOUTS Learn how to find, diagnose, and control landscape pests during early mornings walks in a variety of public parks and green spaces.

These interactive, hands-on, in-themoment experiences provide a unique alternative to traditional classes or passive reading. Attendees are invited to partake in in-depth discussions, ask questions, and take pictures for future reference. It’s an informal and comfortable learning experience.

Discussions are tailored to the audience, weather and time of year, and characteristics of the location—no two walkabouts are ever the same.

Learn more on page 14 or visit www.onla.org/walkabouts

Tour Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens on Thursday, September 6!