april 2014
TotalLandscapeCare.com
Howto
w o r GYour
s s e n 覺 Bus page 24
Turf P roble A Case ms: o f Mistak Identit e n y? R
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2014 Tundra
Page 41
Page 47
Power needs control. CASE skid steers feature on average, over 20% greater breakout force than the nearest competitor. They’re also built with our Power Stance chassis so you can dig, pry or push with confidence, no matter the surface or grade. The muscle to do your hard work is here. See your CASE dealer today.
CaseCE.com Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit www.tlcrequest.com Š2014 CNH Industrial America LLC. All rights reserved. CASE is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates.
table of contents April 2014 Volume 8 | Issue 4
industry news
3
Breaking Ground: What’s the Speed Limit?
Growing your business too fast might not be a bad thing.
5
Field Report: Top Trends
What outdoor design elements will be popular in 2014 might surprise some landscapers
equipment
11
Editor’s Picks: ConExpo-Con/Agg
Equipment released at the show last month in Las Vegas
21
Safety Watch: Avoid Moving Parts
47
ProPickup: Tundra Test Drive
54
Roundup Lawn Maintenance
Unclogging mower clippings results in finger amputation
Toyota’s 2014 Tundra premium model crew-cab 4x4 brings Lexuslike appointments to the jobsite
33
Cut and treat lawns with these products and machines.
business
design/build
lawn care
24
60
14
Foliage: Rock Garden
Enhance designs with plants that thrive in harsh environments.
41
Chemical Care: Fungicides Take the Fall
Your biggest turf problem could be a case of mistaken identity.
Cover Story: How To Grow Your Business
Marketing tips, pitfalls to avoid and ways to reach your expansion goals
33
Landscaper of the Year Finalist: Planting Relationships
Dedicated employees, creative marketing and faith have been the keys to Minnesota landscapers’ business growth
Portfolio: Spotlight Features
Landscapers shine a new light on seating area and water fountain
Photo Above:
The Mustard Seed Landscaping and Garden Centers in Chaska, Minnesota, installed plants, hardscape elements and water features in this backyard retreat.
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New Kubota Z700 Series: We Mean Business
Kubota’s new Z700 Series commercial zero-turn mower raises the bar for quality, durability, precision and all-around productivity. No other commercial mower in its class comes close. Available with 48, 54 or 60-inch decks and a wide variety of attachments and accessories. Ready to cut with the best? Give your business the Kubota Z700 edge. Demo one today at your local Kubota dealer.
ŠKubota Tractor Corporation, 2014
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www.kubota.com
breaking ground totallandscapecare.com /TotalLandscapeCare @TLCmagazine
Editorial
Editor-At-Large: Lauren Heartsill Dowdle Editorial Director: Marcia Gruver Doyle Online Managing Editor: Patty Vaughan editorial@totallandscapecare.com
What’s the Speed Limit?
Design & Production
Growing your business too fast might not be bad
Construction Media
Slow and steady wins the race, right?
Art Director: Richard Street Graphic Designer: Timothy Smith Advertising Production Manager: Linda Hapner production@totallandscapecare.com
Senior VP, Market Development, Construction Media: Dan Tidwell VP of Sales, Construction Media: Joe Donald sales@randallreillyconstruction.com
Corporate
Chairman/CEO: Mike Reilly President: Brent Reilly Chief Process Officer: Shane Elmore Chief Administration Officer: David Wright Senior Vice President, Sales: Scott Miller Senior Vice President, Editorial and Research: Linda Longton Vice President of Events: Alan Sims Vice President, Audience Development: Stacy McCants Vice President, Digital Services: Nick Reid Director of Marketing: Julie Arsenault
3200 Rice Mine Rd NE Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 800-633-5953 randallreilly.com For change of address and other subscription inquiries, please contact: totallandscapecare@halldata.com For subscription information/inquiries, please email: totallandscapecare@halldata.com. Total Landscape Care (ISSN # 1932-8303) is published monthly by Randall-Reilly Publishing Co. LLC, 3200 Rice Mine Road NE, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406. Single copy price: US $6, Canada/Mexico $9, Foreign $12. For subscriptions, call (800) 517-4979 in the U.S. or (847) 763-9610 outside the U.S. U.S. Periodicals Postage Paid at Tuscaloosa, AL and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 707.4.12.5); NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: send address corrections to Total Landscape Care, PO Box 2196, Skokie, IL 60076-9852. All contributions in the form of unsolicited letters, manuscripts, stories, materials, photographs or art are welcome, addressed to the editor. These submissions cannot be returned except where the sender provides a postage-paid, addressed, stamped envelope. RandallReilly Publishing Company, LLC cannot assume responsibility for unintentional loss or damage to submitted materials. All advertisements for Total Landscape Care magazine are accepted and published by Randall-Reilly Publishing Company, LLC on the representation that the advertiser and/or advertising agency are authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The advertiser and/or advertising agency will defend, indemnify and hold Randall-Reilly Publishing Company, LLC harmless from and against any loss, expenses or other liability resulting from any claims or suits for libel violations of right of privacy or publicity, plagiarisms, copyright or trademark infringement and any other claims or suits that may arise out of publication of such advertisement. Copyright ©2014 Randall-Reilly Publishing Company, LLC All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Total Landscape Care is a trademark of Randall-Reilly Publishing Company, LLC Randall-Reilly Publishing Company, LLC neither endorses nor makes any representation or guarantee regarding the quality of goods and services advertised herein.
Total Landscape Care is a proud supporter of...
Maybe not, according to my sources for “How To Grow Your Business” (page 24). Going into this story, I expected to hear several reasons landscapers should be cautious about expanding their companies too fast – such as spreading themselves thin, losing cash flow or overwhelming employees. But instead, the landscaper and marketing specialist I talked with were more concerned about owners not doing enough: whether by not using social media, not returning customer calls or not taking advantage of marketing tools. That just shows what drive and determination look like. Business owners who are serious about expanding want to do as much as they can, as quickly as they can. So, it becomes less about the speed of growth and more about how an owner manages the company’s changes: knowing when to add employees, revising plans when needed and making sure the team buys into the company’s new goals. One landscaper who has taken a business from the corner of her room to a large, sustainable office building in just seven years is Andrea Wilson Mueller, owner of Inside Out Design in Frankfort, Kentucky, and TLC’s 2014 Landscaper of the Year. “If you take care of the company – and clients – the company will take care of you,” says Mueller, who shares more advice in the article on page 26. Of course, there will always be pitfalls to avoid no matter how fast a company grows: But that’s part of the process. So, forget the speed limit, and find what works for your company. Lauren Heartsill Dowdle Editor-At-Large
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Tony Brehon – Assembly
Built in America. Believing in America.* STIHL truly believes in the productivity of American workers and businesses. So we’re proud to be one of the U.S. manufacturers rebuilding our economy one brick, one car and one chain saw at a time. STIHL believes in supporting small, local business owners like you. It means something to your clients,
to your company, and to us. Because it’s the real people, STIHL people, who help make STIHL the number one selling brand of gasoline-powered outdoor power equipment in America.*
TH
To find a STIHL dealer: STIHLusa.com
*A majority of STIHL powerheads are built in the United States from domestic and foreign parts and components. “Number one selling brand” is based on syndicated Irwin Broh Research as well as independent consumer research of 2009-2013 U.S. sales and market share data for the gasoline-powered handheld outdoor power equipment category combined sales to consumers and commercial landscapers. © 2014 STIHL
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FieldReport:
news, trends & cool stuff By Lauren Heartsill Dowdle
Top Outdoor Design Trends Residential elements that will be popular in 2014
About the Survey The American Society of Landscape Architects’ survey asked residential landscape architecture professionals about the estimated popularity of various design elements for 2014. The survey was fielded Jan. 16 through Feb. 14, 2014, with 179 responding.
C
lients continue to ask for outdoor design elements to improve their yards and homes. But what exactly are they looking for this year? That’s the question the American Society of Landscape Architects posed in a recent survey they conducted. Landscape architects from across the country who specialize in residential design rated the expected popularity of a variety of outdoor
design elements for 2014. While many longtime favorites, such as fire features and outdoor kitchens, topped the list, so did sustainable and low-maintenance designs. The most popular landscape and garden elements for 2014 were lowmaintenance landscapes (95.4 percent) and native plants (84.5 percent). Slightly more than three quarters of respondents (76.4 percent) noted food
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fieldreport:
PHOTO COURTESY OF CAMBRIDGE PAVERS
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Outdoor Design Elements PHOTO COURTESY OF GREENLEAF SERVICES
and vegetable gardens, including orchards and vineyards, will be in demand this year, according to the survey. The most in-demand ecofriendly design elements included native/adapted droughttolerant plants (88 percent) and drip/water-efficient irrigation (84.5 percent). Permeable paving (78.9 percent), reduced lawn (72.6 percent) and recycled materials (65.1 percent) also made the list. Behind gardens and landscaped spaces, which had a 94.2-percent rating, was outdoor living spaces – kitchens and entertainment areas – with 92 percent. Coming in third was outdoor recreation at 75.8 percent. Across all of the categories, 98.3 percent of respondents rated lighting as somewhat or very in demand for 2014, followed by seating/dining areas (97.7 percent), fire pits/fireplaces (95.4 percent), grills (94.3 percent) and
Gardens/landscaped spaces: Outdoor living spaces (kitchens, entertainment spaces): Outdoor recreation amenities (pools, spas, tennis courts): Sustainable design practices: Vegetable/fruit gardens: Turf lawns: ADA/accessible design:
installed seating (89.6 percent) – which include benches, seatwalls, ledges, steps and boulders, the ASLA reports. “Homeowners know designed landscapes add value to their lives as well as their property values,” says Nancy Somerville,
Outdoor Living Features
94.2% 92.0% 75.8% 74.2% 72.4% 54.0% 29.7%
ASLA executive vice president and CEO. “They’re interested in livable, open spaces that are both stylish and earth friendly.” Here are elements the landscape architects rated “popular” or “somewhat popular” for 2014 in the survey.
Lighting: Seating/dining areas: Fire pits/fireplaces: Grills: Installed seating (benches, seatwalls, ledges, steps, boulders): Outdoor furniture: Counter space: Utility storage: Stereo systems: Wireless/internet connectivity: Sinks: Refrigerators: Televisions/projection screens: Outdoor heaters: Showers/baths: Outdoor cooling systems (including fans): Hammocks: Bedrooms/sleeping spaces:
98.3% 97.7% 95.4% 94.3% 89.6% 84.1% 75.5% 65.5% 60.7% 56.0% 55.0% 53.7% 49.4% 48.9% 46.8% 37.2% 34.1% 14.9%
When you miss a job in landscaping, you lose more than money–you lose your reputation. That’s why so many landscapers trust Mobil Delvac™ heavy-duty diesel engine oil in their trucks–it helps reduce sludge and wear and is formulated for long engine life. To learn more, visit mobildelvac.com
A reliable truck means reliable business
Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit www.tlcrequest.com © 2013 Exxon Mobil Corporation. Mobil and Mobil Delvac are trademarks or registered trademarks of Exxon Mobil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries.
fieldreport:
95.4% 84.5% 83.9% 76.4% 69.1% 64.0% 60.0% 58.3% 53.1% 49.7%
Outdoor Recreation Amenities Decorative water elements such as ornamental pools, splash pools, waterfalls, grottos, water runnels or bubblers: Spa features (hot tub, Jacuzzi, whirlpool, indoor/outdoor sauna): Swimming pools: Sports/recreational spaces (tennis courts, bocce ball, etc.): Movie/video/TV theatres:
86.1% 76.4% 73.8% 58.6% 42.3%
Landscape/ Garden Elements
Roll With The Seasons
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PHOTO COURTESY OF HOLLY LEPERE, GRACE DESIGN ASSOCIATES
Low-maintenance landscapes: Native plants: Fountains/ornamental water features: Food/Vegetable gardens (including orchards/vineyards, etc.): Xeriscaping or dry gardens: Organic gardens: Ponds/streams: Rain gardens: Rooftop gardens: Plant walls/vertical gardens:
PHOTO COURTESY OF ANTHONY’S ARCHITECTURAL LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION
fieldreport:
Native/adapted drought-tolerant plants: Drip/water-efficient irrigation: Permeable paving: Reduced lawn: Recycled materials: Rainwater/graywater harvesting: Compost bins: Solar-powered lights: Geothermal-heated pools:
88.0% 84.5% 78.9% 72.6% 65.1% 60.6% 51.2% 42.7% 27.2%
Terraces/patios/decks: Fencing (includes gates): Pergolas: Decks: Ornamental water features such as fountains or splash pools: Arbors: Steps: Porches: Kitchens/ovens:
97.7% 88.5% 82.8% 82.3% 81.6% 81.1% 77.7% 74.4% 71.4%
Art (sculptures, murals, etc.): Play structures (tree houses, swing sets, etc.): Utility sheds (tool sheds, garden sheds, etc.): Pavilions: Gazebos: Awnings, including retractable: Columns: ADA-accessible structures (ramps, bars, accessible shelving, etc.):
64.4% 60.6% 59.0% 56.6% 48.5% 47.7% 45.4% 33.1%
Sustainable Design Elements
PHOTO COURTESY OF HOLLY LEPERE, GRACE DESIGN ASSOCIATES
Outdoor Structures
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The hydrostatic-drive Bobcat® 3650, with its front-mounted, PTOdriven attachment capability, gives you a fast and powerful option for mowing, sweeping, clearing snow and much more. Step inside an air-conditioned, heated cab and comfortably do tough jobs all year.
Text UTV5 to 24587
for an online video that shows how versatile Bobcat utility vehicles can be. Standard message and data rates apply. Bobcat will not share your mobile number. To unsubscribe at any time, text STOP to 24587.
Bobcat.com/mowtosnow5 1.877.745.7813 Bobcat ® and the Bobcat logo are registered trademarks of Bobcat Company in the United States and various other countries. ©2014 Bobcat Company. All Rights Reserved. A P R I |L 1257D-0 2014 TotalLa nd s ca p eCa r e.co m 9
YOUR INPUT. PUT IN PLACE.
Building your landscaping business together. If anybody knows about growth, it’s landscapers like you — especially the growth of your own business. So when you planted ideas in our heads about a compact loader for landscaping, they took root in our 204K/304K models. You wanted an easy-in, easy-out machine. We gave you a windowless, open canopy. You wanted maneuverability. We lowered the height of our loaders to 8 feet. You wanted intelligently-placed controls. We offer fngertip control of the coupler, speed, lights, and other machine functions, close and convenient to the operator. To learn more, see your dealer or visit our website. Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit www.tlcrequest.com
JohnDeere.com/loaders
BY LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE
Equipment released at ConExpo-Con/Agg last month in Las Vegas
Comfy seat Replacing the TL230 Series 2, the Takeuchi TL8 compact track loader has a radial-lift design, weighs 8,345 pounds and has a tip load of 6,020 pounds. The TL8 is powered by a 74.3-horsepower, turbocharged, Tier 4 engine. Its double-reduction planetary drives provide 9,100-pound traction forces. The CTL also has a deluxe, high-back suspension seat that comes standard. For more information on the CTL and a new compact excavator, visit totallandscapecare.com/ takeuchi-equipment-conexpo.
Conserve energy
Dig in JCB unveiled two compact excavators at the trade show: the 8019 CTS and 8029 CTS. The 8029 CTS has a 25-horsepower engine and a tail swing that’s 18 1/2 inches longer than the 8025 zero-tail-swing model. With a 10-foot dig depth, the 8029 also has a 6,321-pound operating weight, 6,321-pound operating weight and O-ring face seals on the hydraulic connections. For more information, visit totallandscapecare.com/jcb-conexpo.
Available in both cab and canopy models, the Kobelco SK55SRx compact excavator is powered by a 37.4-horsepower Yanmar engine. The 11,050-pound model features an energy-conservation mode, and a one-touch deceleration button allows operators to switch to an idling state. The machine has an arm force of 5,350 pounds, two-pin bucket force of 11,128 pounds and a dig depth of 12 feet 10 inches. For more information, visit totallandscapecare. com/kobelco-conexpo. com/kobelco-conexpo
For product information, text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCREQUEST.COM
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editor’s picks
Floating blade The Tier 4 Doosan DX63-3 compact excavator features a blade float and other upgrades from the previous model, the DX60R. With a 13,779-pound operating weight, the excavator has 59.4 horsepower, multifunction joysticks, color instrumentation panel and a dig depth of 13 feet 6 inches. The blade height has been increased to 16.1 inches, and the upper structure is shifted rearward on the undercarriage compared to the previous model. For more information, visit totallandscapecare.com/doosan-conexpo.
Compact debut Sany America’s SY16C and SY35U compact excavators are the first compact pieces the company has brought to North America. With an operating weight of 3,858 pounds and a maximum dig depth of 7 feet 8 inches, the short-tailswing SY16C has a bucket breakout force of 8,333 pounds. The Tier 4 SY16C has an operating weight of 3,858 pounds, maximum dig depth of 7 feet 8 inches and hydraulically controlled dozer blade. For more information, visit totallandscapecare.com/sany-america-conexpo.
For product information, text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCREQUEST.COM
Wherever your business takes you, we’re there to help. At Progressive Commercial Auto, we know your business depends on your vehicle. For over 40 years, we’ve been offering Commercial Auto insurance designed specifically for small business owners. And with 24/7 live support and expert claims representatives, we get you back on the road fast. On the road with you. Now that’s Progressive. Call for a Free Quote
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editor’s picks
Bringing machines stateside Wacker Neuson introduced two skid steers and two compact track loaders at ConExpo for the U.S. market. All of the units are available in H-pattern and ISO joystick pilot controls. The ST 45 compact track loader has a vertical lift, 4,500 operating capacity and 134-inch lift height. All of the models are powered by a 74.4-horsepower, turbocharged Perkins diesel engine. For more information, visit totallandscapecare. com/wacker-neusonconexpo. conexpo
For product information, text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCREQUEST.COM
Grow bet ter every day. Our line of turf and landscape ornamental products is growing bigger and better every day. And, with more quality solutions, we can deliver more options for your business to grow better too. To learn about our recent product additions, talk to your distributor or visit us online.
www.Nufarm.com/USTO ©2014 Nufarm. Important: Always read and follow label instructions. Anuew™, Change Up™, Last Call™, Mallet®, Menace®, Millennium™ and ProDeuce® are trademarks of Nufarm. 3336® and Affirm® are trademarks of Cleary Chemical, LLC. TriStar® is a trademark of Nippon Soda Co, LTD. Arena®, Safari®, SureGuard® and Tourney® are trademarks of Valent U.S.A. Corporation.
Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCrequest.com A P R I L 2014
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Tota lLa nd s ca p eCa r e.com 13 3/24/14 1:42 PM
foliage
Rock Garden Plantings BY ARRICCA ELIN SANSONE
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foliage
Enhance your design with plants that thrive in harsh environments
L
ong a standard in the arid West and high-desert regions such as the Rockies, rock gardens have become increasingly popular throughout the country. A rock garden, also known as an alpine garden or rockery, incorporates stones and boulders with dwarf shrubs and low-growing or creeping plants. Traditional rock gardens are planted at high altitudes where they must withstand the rigors of heat, high winds and drought. Nowadays, you’re just as likely to find a rock garden in southern Connecticut as in southern California. Both pretty and practical, rock gardens offer an opportunity to accent underutilized areas of a landscape, add native plantings and manage trouble spots such as hillsides. “One of the most common reasons landscapers install a rock garden is to eliminate higher-maintenance planting beds or replace turf,” says Jeff Gibson, landscape business manager at Ball Horticultural Company. A rock garden may integrate the entire landscape or serve as an accent piece. The planting medium typically is sandy, rocky and almost soilless. While traditional rock-garden plants are alpine or sub-alpine species such as columbines or lupines, many other plants actually do well in rock gardens. “Common annuals and bedding plants provide an extra show of color all season long that true rock gardens usually only offer in spring, fall or after a rain,” Gibson says. Plants that work in rock gardens also do well in other harsh environments such as on hillsides, in the crevices along a stonewall or path or along curbs. Try out a few of these hardy plants for your rock gardens and other tough-to-fill spaces.
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foliage
ANNUALS
PROVEN WINNERS
BALL HORTICULTURAL COMPANY
BALL HORTICULTURAL COMPANY
GoldDust Mecardonia (Me-
Moss Rose (Portulaca grandiflora)
Silver Falls Dichondra (Dichon-
cardonia hybrid) Tiny green leaves with bright yellow flowers that bloom from May to October on a trailing habit. No deadheading necessary. Tolerates heat. Grows 5 inches tall and 20 inches wide. *Full sun
Low-growing, tolerant of heat and cold. Comes in an array of vivid colors, including fuchsia, deep red, orange, white, yellow and variegated. New Happy Trails series has bigger flowers and good spread. Grows 6 to 9 inches tall and 14 to 18 inches wide. *Full sun
dra argentea) Dense almost metallic, silvery-green foliage on silver stems. Vigorous grower that creeps well as a groundcover or cascades over rocks. Withstands heat and drought. Grows 2 to 3 inches tall and 48 inches wide. *Part sun to sun
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Scan for additional information Patents USA #5,884,924 | Canada #2,291,159
Find Corona Tools on
800.847.7863 | coronatoolsusa.com Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCrequest.com
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SHRUBS
PROVEN WINNERS
MONROVIA
PROVEN WINNERS
Bangle Genista (Genista lydia)
Bepo Austrian Pine (Pinus nigra
Heavily flowering, low-mounding deciduous bush boasts showy yellow flowers in spring. Attractive texture even when not blooming. Heat and drought tolerant. Grows 24 inches tall and wide. *Hardy to USDA zones 4 to 9 *Sun
‘Pierrick Bregeon’ ) Dense shrub with glossy green color and spherical form. Compact habitat. Doesn’t brown out like Mugo pine in winter. Grows 3 feet tall to 4 feet wide. *Hardy to USDA zones 4 to 8 *Full sun
Good Vibrations Gold Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis) Unlike other junipers, this one is soft to the touch. Three-season color: Chartreuse in spring, changes to bright yellow then orange in fall. Spreading, horizontal habit. Grows 18 inches tall and 9 feet wide. *Hardy to USDA zones 4 to 9 *Full sun
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foliage
PERENNIALS
MoNRovIA
MoNRovIA
BALL HoRtIcuLtuRAL coMPANy
All Gold Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘All
Curious Orange Monkey Flower (Mimulus aurantiacus
Gold’ ) Dramatic golden foliage looks like tiny bamboo plants. Clumping habit. Grows 18 inches tall and wide. *Hardy to USDA zones 4 to 9 *Part sun
‘Mimapri’ ) New tropical hybrid with long-lasting orange flowers and glossy evergreen foliage. Grows naturally on slopes. Heavy bloomer. Grows 12 to 18 inches tall and 18 inches wide. *Hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11 *Part sun to full sun
Pinks/Dianthus (Dianthus various) Tolerate high light and cool nights of traditional rock garden settings. Many different colors including dark pink, purple and rose. New EverLast series has double blooms and longer bloom period. New Fruit Punch series has double, fragrant blossoms with patterned petals. *Hardy to USDA zones 4 to 9 *Part sun to sun
Text info to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCrequest.com 18 To t al L a n d s c a p e C a r e . com
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SUCCULENTS
BaLL HorTiCULTUraL CompaNy
provEN WiNNErS
provEN WiNNErS
Blue Spruce Sedum (Sedum re-
Garnet Brocade Sedum
Pure Joy Stonecrop (Sedum
flexum ‘Blue Spruce’ ) Bluish color looks like tiny blue spruce trees. Low-growing and spreading habit. Grows 6 to 10 inches high and 10 to 12 inches wide. *Hardy to USDA zones 3 to 11 *Sun
(Sedum, Hytolephium, hybrid ‘Garbro’ ) Burgundy foliage and flowers. Long bloom season August through October. Upright habit. Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Grows to 16 inches tall and wide. *Hardy to USDA zones 3 to 11 *Sun
hybrid ‘Pure Joy’ ) New variety has light green leaves and pinkish-purple flowers and seed heads. Forms low, rounded mound. Grows to 1 foot tall and 20 inches wide. *Hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9 *Sun
Text info to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCrequest.com a p r i l 2014
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Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit www.tlcrequest.com
Avoid Moving Parts BY LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE
Unclogging mower clippings results in finger amputation THE ACCIDENT: A maintenance crewmember is mowing a lawn, but after a couple of rows, the grass bag fills up. He releases the driveclutch lever and flywheel brake lever to stop the engine. With his left hand, he removes the bag and places his right hand into the discharge opening to remove clumps of grass that have built up. As he does that, the mower blades are still turning, and they strike his hand. He sustains lacerations to his index and ring finger, and his middle finger is amputated to the first joint. His coworker sees the accident and drives him to a nearby medical facility where he is treated for his injuries.
ILLUSTRATION BY DON LOMAX
THE BOTTOM LINE: The crewmember should have blocked the metal rotary blades on the mower after disengaging the engine to prevent inadvertent movement of the blades. If a mower becomes clogged, the operator should turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before trying to clear debris from the discharge chute. Here are additional mower safety tips to prevent similar accidents. • Don’t put hands or feet under running mowers. • Inspect the mower before beginning work each day. Check for loose or damaged belts, accumulated grass or grease, bent blades and fluid leaks. • Ensure the operator-presence control is work-
• • • • •
ing properly. It should shut off automatically when the handle is released on a walk-behind or if you leave the seat on a ride-on mower. Don’t mow with hands and/or feet off of the equipment. Never use a mower without all of the shields and guards in place. Inspect the area, and remove any debris before mowing. Don’t dismount from a running machine. If using a walk-behind, always push the mower – never pull – to keep it from running over your feet.
For more Safety Watch articles, visit totallandscapecare.com/safetywatch.
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Evite los componentes en movimiento POR LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE
Desatascar residuos de una cortacésped culmina en una amputación de dedo EL ACCIDENTE: El miembro de una cuadrilla de mantenimiento está cortando la hierba, pero después de recorrer un par de líneas, se le llena la bolsa de césped. Suelta la palanca de embrague y la palanca de freno del volante motor para detener la máquina. Con su mano izquierda retira la bolsa y coloca la mano derecha en la apertura de descarga para retirar los montones de hierba que se habían acumulado. Mientras hace eso, las cuchillas de la cortacésped siguen girando y le golpean la mano. Recibe laceraciones en los dedos índice y anular, y su dedo medio es amputado en la primera articulación. Su compañero de trabajo ve el accidente y lo traslada a un centro médico cercano donde recibe tratamiento por sus heridas.
ILUSTRACIÓN POR DON LOMAX
•
CONCLUSIÓN: El trabajador debió haber bloqueado las cuchillas metálicas giratorias de la cortacésped después de desenganchar el motor, para impedir un movimiento inadvertido de las cuchillas. Si una cortacésped se atora, el operador debe apagar el motor y desconectar el cable de la bujía antes de tratar de limpiar de desperdicios la salida de descarga. Aquí unos consejos adicionales de seguridad con las cortadoras de césped para prevenir accidentes similares. • Nunca ponga las manos o los pies debajo de una cortacésped que esté funcionando. • Inspeccione la cortadora de césped a diario antes del trabajo. Revise si hay correas sueltas o dañadas, hierba o grasa acumulada, cuchillas
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• • • • •
dobladas y fugas de fluido. Asegúrese de que el control de presencia del operador esté funcionando apropiadamente. Este debería apagar la máquina automáticamente cuando se suelta la manija en una podadora de a pie o cuando abandona la silla de un tractor cortacésped. No corte el césped con sus manos o pies fuera de la maquinaria. Nunca utilice una cortacésped sin que estén colocadas todas las cubiertas y protecciones. Inspeccione el área y retire cualquier escombro antes de cortar la hierba. No se desmonte de una máquina en operación. Si usa una cortacésped de a pie, siempre empuje la cortacésped – nunca la jale – para impedir que pase sobre sus pies.
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cover story
Marketing tips, pitfalls to avoid and ways to reach your expansion goals BY LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE
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How To 24 To t a l L a n d s c a p e C a r e . c om
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or a plant to thrive, it needs a good environment, the proper nutrients, regular pruning and plenty of room to grow. Why should a landscape business be any different? “Growing your business is just like growing a seed,” says Steven Cohen, landscape-snow industry consultant with GreenMark Consulting Group (greenmarkgroup.com) in Richmond, Virginia. “It must be cultivated carefully using good business knowledge and intuition, careful planning, organized systems, use of proper tools, continuous evaluation and dedication to deal with the ebbs and flows that go with being a business owner.” So when a landscaper is ready to start expanding his company, does he know where to start? Here are tips, problems to watch out for and advice from the experts on how to grow a blossoming business.
s s e n i s u
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efore figuring out what methods they’ll use to expand, owners first need to pick a goal they want to reach. “One of the biggest challenges we have as landscape professionals is truly understanding the growth process and then, thereafter, planning the growth process,” Cohen says. “We often allow our competitive market to grow our business versus the business owner implementing his own sound growth strategy.” When planning, they need to make sure to set realistic goals and weigh the risk and rewards of each. Popular numbers to track are revenue growth (business volume) and profit, but landscapers should remember to keep their companies’ capacities in mind when choosing numbers. “Failing to set realistic goals by being either too conservative or overly ambitious can have disastrous results on your company,” he says. (To read about choosing between conservative or ambitious goals, check out the sidebar on page 31.)
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After creating a growth plan, it’s important to continually review it to make sure it’s still aligned with the company’s objectives. Plans and priorities can change, which is something Andrea Wilson Mueller – owner of Inside Out Design in Frankfort, Kentucky, and TLC’s 2014 Landscaper of the Year – found out. With a goal of a 10-percent growth every year, Inside Out Design has actually experienced closer to 15 to 18 percent. They originally wanted to become a $1 million company, but Mueller says she and her husband, Michael, realized they needed to put the quality of growth above the quantity. “We want quality workmanship and projects that are in keeping with our mission instead of focusing on money,” Mueller says. “Part of our process is to make sure we are running as efficiently as we can so that we are still profitable and so our employees are paid enough and our projects are a good value for the customer.”
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d a e Spsreeds
o market her design/build company, Mueller uses a variety of low-cost tools: wrapping all of the trucks, putting their logo and contact information on shovels they leave in clients’ yards, posting regularly on social media sites, sending newsletters with useful landscape information and networking within the community. Once marketing plans are in place, she suggests tracking each to see which one is bringing in the most return. Whenever a potential client reaches out to them, whether by phone or online, they ask them how they heard about their business. “It’s important to know how they know about us, otherwise, marketing dollars are wasted,” Mueller says. (See “Marketing Dos & Don’ts” on page 30 for more tips.)
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T
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finish the job.
w o r G work net ith goals and marketing strategies set, it’s important for landscape business owners to focus on their clients, which are a vital component of their companies’ success. Forming good relationships with customers can lead to recommendations to their friends – something that is a must for businesses. “Do what you say you are going to and follow through,” she continues. “If a customer isn’t happy, fix it. You want those referrals.” Since clients see crews more regularly than the owners in most cases, it’s important employees put customer service first, as well. “Explain to them the vision of the company, and make sure they know the mission,” Mueller says. “Also, make sure they know referrals are the biggest way we get business. If you
take care of the company – and clients – the company will take care of you.” Owners can even take that a step farther once they develop a solid relationship with a client: “Encourage customers to give referrals in subtle ways,” Mueller says. “Follow up with existing customers for repeat business and referrals.” She sends out e-newsletters to help stay connected with past customers. While keeping and finding more clients is part of the growing process, that doesn’t mean landscapers should say, “yes,” to every project that comes their way. “Not every job is for you,” Mueller explains. “We are still trying to learn to say no – it’s hard. But focusing on what you are good at is good to grow your business and the kind of business you want to achieve.”
going.
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and then keep
©2014 CNH Industrial America LLC. All rights reserved. New Holland is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates. NH04149257FT
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hile a landscaper may understand the growth plan inside and out, that doesn’t mean his or her employees have bought in. “This is one of the biggest challenges business owners have,” Cohen says. He encourages owners to get their team involved and engaged. “Share with your team where the business has been, where it is now and where you would like it to go. This in essence is your vision. Let them know they can and need to be an integral part of the process.” Additionally, owners should
MARKETING DOS & DON’TS When you’re ready to take your company to the next level, finding the right marketing tools is crucial. Here are dos and don’ts from Steven Cohen to better leverage your business.
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DO
Deliver a clear brand message: What makes your brand different and better than others? Use a variety of marketing platforms including social media. Be patient and persistent: It takes time to get your brand recognized.
DON’T
Over promise on your service mantra. Be inconsistent with your message delivery if using social media or a blog. Allow your website to become stale and outdated. Forget old-school marketing: Digital marketing is not the only way to reach your audience.
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cover story
Conservative vs. ambitious Goals Playing it too safe isn’t always the best route to take with your business, according to Steven Cohen. He gives the example of either setting a conservative revenue goal of $100,000 for the year with a profit margin target of 5 percent or an ambitious revenue target of $1 million with a profit margin of 25 percent.
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the notion of the second, more ambitious plan,” Cohen says. “Taking an ambitious plan and trimming it down to more realistic proportions is far more productive than starting with a conservative plan and failing to push it to its true limits.”
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To still keep the ambitious goal realistic, you should continually monitor your progress, hold “While the first choice might be the safer choice or even the regular staff meetings and more realistic one for that matter, brainstorm – modifying plans when needed. take a moment to entertain
challenges of employee burnout and potentially service delivery problems.” So, when should a landscaper add employees to his or her team? If they exceed their operating efficiencies and their business supports it, it’s time. “It’s your job to make sure you have the right people and the right number of people to keep your company running smoothly,” he says. Not having the right resources in place to manage the growth is a mistake many landscapers make, Cohen says. This includes everything from the right processes and people to having a sufficient cash flow. “I recommend focusing on your business – instead of worrying about keeping up with others,” Cohen says. “A successful business grows organically by taking small steps versus large strides.”
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share with their employees what the growth rewards are for them: personally, professionally and financially. “While they may all not be leaders in name, they all have an important part to play,” Cohen explains. “Steering a company through change is a big job. If you create ambassadors for the change, you won’t be shouldering your vision alone.” Another challenge for a company navigating growth is determining the right time to hire more staff and how much staff they should actually hire, Cohen says. “The mantra in the landscape industry has been to run ‘lean and mean,’” he continues. “By that, I mean maximizing your people resources to get as much done as possible with carrying as little overhead as possible. While this is a great philosophy – and I support it – it also brings
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Alturnamats_TLC0612_PG.indd 1 Untitled-11 1
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Presented by
Join the Best in the Industry! Boost your business’s reputation and network with the best landscapers from across the country by entering our Landscaper of the Year program. All of the finalists win an all-expense-paid cruise to the Bahamas and have their business featured in an issue of Total Landscape Care magazine.
Enter Today
totallandscapecare.com/loy
Congratulations to our 2014 Landscaper of the Year and Finalists! LANDSCAPERS OF THE YEAR Andrea Wilson Mueller & Michael Mueller Inside Out Design Frankfort, Kentucky
Mark & Kay Halla The Mustard Seed Landscaping & Garden Centers Chaska, Minnesota
David Land Tulsa Landscape, Inc. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Lewis Bennett & Dana Shook Green Dreams Landscape Management, Inc. Pinebluff, North Carolina
Joe Hanauer Landscape Architecture, LLC Madison, Wisconsin
Scott Reister TG&R Landscape Group Rock Hill, South Carolina
Ross Bowen Ross NW Watergardens Portland, Oregon
Dustin Hanson Hanson Landscape, Inc. Big Rock, Illinois
Terry Sims The Garden Artist, LLC Boise, Idaho
Matthew Gilligan Magnolia Landscape, LLC Virginia Beach, Virginia
Claude Kershner III Reef Tropical Lawn Key Largo, Florida
Stephen Wright Creative Landscape & Irrigation, Inc. Asheboro, North Carolina
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Planting Relationships Marketing tools, dedicated employees and landscapers’ faith have been the keys to business growth PHOTOS AND TEXT BY LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE
Mark and Kay Halla, The Mustard Seed Landscaping and Garden Centers Chaska, Minnesota
O
ne of the smallest of its kind, the mustard seed’s size is mentioned several times in the Bible’s New Testament. “If you have the faith as small as a mustard seed … nothing will be impossible for you” (Matthew 17:20 NIV). So for faithful landscapers Mark and Kay Halla, naming their company after this parable seemed to encompass their beliefs and business practices. “We’re seed planters,” Mark says. “We’re The
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landscaper of the year finalist
Mustard Seed.” Started in 2003, The Mustard Seed Landscaping & Garden Centers is located in Chaska, Minnesota, and is the only company to be chosen as a finalist for TLC’s Landscaper of the Year twice. They offer landscape design/build, over-wintering of Koi fish, site planning and maintenance of shrubs, trees, perennials and annuals. The couple, married 27 years with two children, provide a good balance to the company. Mark has been in the industry for 29 years, having worked for his father’s landscape company before starting one of his own. Kay, who studied landLocated in Carver, Minnesota, this scape architecture backyard project and forestry in colincludes a water garden, putting lege, works as one green, deck, patio of the company’s and fire pit. designers. (Read how The Mustard Seed got its start at totallandscapecare.com/mustardseed-backstory.) In addition to offering landscape services, the company also has two garden centers that sell lawn chemicals, yard art and other homeowner products. Having the garden center also gives their customers the opportunity to come and pick out the plants for their projects. The main store even has a petting zoo with chickens, roosters, donkeys and goats, along with a playground to entertain customers’ children. “We want to capture that generation of children so they think kindly of us,” Mark says.
Marketing matters Spreading the word about their business is nothing new for the Hallas. They even ramped up
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promotions when the market took a hit – doubling their marketing budget during the recession. “I’m very analytical, so I had to plan ahead – which helped during the recession,” Mark says. From online to print media, The Mustard Seed constantly looks for new ways to reach potential clients. “If anyone thinks of landscaping, we want our name to be in the mix,” he says.
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landscaper of the year finalist
When someone moves into the area, The Mustard Seed sends out personalized letters and coupons for the garden centers. To give residents a firsthand look at their work, they place a company sign in their client’s yard, and they leave it there until after everything is complete. They also pay for ads in local publications to help drive traffic to their website. Once someone reaches their site, they can view project photos, information on their garden centers, photos and bios on their staff, their mission statement and other information that describes the company. Throughout the year, they offer coupons on their website, like one for $50 off a consultation design fee – which normally is $100. They also ask people visiting their site how they heard of The Mustard Seed and use that information for their strategic data to see what is working the best. Furthering their digital reach, Mark sends e-newsletters, posts on social media and holds giveaways. “You have to look at it like what’s the return on investment,” he says. “Facebook really reaches our core audience. Our marketing is about being relational.” And in one of the garden centers, they have an iPad set up for people to answer survey questions
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The Mustard Seed created a backyard retreat by installing stunning foliage, water features, pavers and a fire pit.
for a chance to win a prize. Users must first log into their Facebook account, and after they take the survey, a photo of the store posts to their page showing they were at the garden center. “This helps us reach these people’s friends,” Mark says. “What a great way to capture all of those email addresses – it’s a good marketing tool.” Although their digital efforts have been helping to expand their reach, word of mouth continues to bring in the majority of their business. About 24-percent of The Mustard Seed’s business comes from these referrals, and there’s close to a 100percent close rate, Mark says.
Setting themselves apart But before a client refers The Mustard Seed, they need to trust the company and its staff – and building relationships is one of the Hallas’ top priorities. “At the center of everything should be your relationships,” Kay says. “If you focus on relationships, you will have bigger results, instead of the other way around.” “Our faith sets us apart,” Mark adds. “We are
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landscaper of the year finalist
The Mustard Seed installed a sign, waterfalls and plants at their church, Westwood Community Church, which won them a PLANET award.
here for such a short time, and we aren’t going to be remembered for our work: We’re going to be remembered for our relationships.” So from the garden centers to jobsites, it’s clear the Hallas care about their clients and projects.
4 TIPS FOR SUCCESS
1
Find a good work/life balance. “At the beginning, I was too focused on work and not my family,” Mark Halla recalls. “I realized if I kept that up, I wasn’t going to have a family anymore.”
2 3
Plan ahead. “Make sure there’s enough cash – cash is king,” Mark says.
4
Keep promises. “When we schedule a project, we make sure to show up when we say we will,” Mark says. They also build rain days into their schedules to give clients an accurate idea of when it will be complete. Golden rule. “We treat others like we want to be treated,” Mark says, “knowing that if we do that, we always end up over delivering.”
Watch a video to hear more of Mark and Kay’s business tips at totallandscapecare.com/ hallas-tips.
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“They just have a lot of integrity,” says Greer Hussey, one of their clients. “They have the expertise, too, but they also really care about their clients. There’s a million people who can do what they do, but it’s their personal integrity that sets them apart.” Even The Mustard Seed’s employees are on board with these principles. “We put relationships first, instead of results,” says Cory Whitmer, who joined the team in 2004 as a partner. While most landscapers up north are closing their doors for the winter, the Hallas actually use this time to reach a different audience. They have offered Christmas tree packages, similar to Groupon, to sell Christmas trees and get people into the garden centers. They also offer field trips to the center for children where they have live reindeer, elves (Mark) and Santa. While the students are there, the staff gives them brochures to color, and if they bring those colored sheets back into the shop at another time, they get free honey sticks. Since this requires the parents to bring them, it’s just another way they attract people to their store and show the community they care.
Best assets Building strong relationships isn’t only reserved for clients, however. The Hallas also invest their
landscaper of the year finalist
time and resources into their 47 employees. When they hire a new employee, they base their decision more on the candidate’s personality, instead of their industry knowledge. “If they have a good heart and are willing to learn, you can teach them anything,” Mark says. But hiring the right staff members can also be a struggle, he continues. “It takes a while to get to know them. Sometimes it’s difficult to tell them the truth without making them fearful of losing their job,” Mark explains. To help with this process, they hold meetings for employees to teach them how to excel at their jobs – such as how they should interact with customers in the garden centers and on the jobsite. “People are your best assets, but they are also some of the most difficult,” Mark says. “You need to understand how God has uniquely wired them.”
What’s next?
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While they have already built a thriving company, which had $1.85 million in annual revenue last year, the couple continually wants it to expand and improve. Going forward, Kay says she would like for them to grow more in the nursery – something that can keep employees busy during the winter months. Mark says he wants to look into subcontracting lawn maintenance services, something they don’t currently offer. But no matter the company’s size or list of services, one
thing’s clear: Nothing is impossible for this mustard seed. View more project photos from The Mustard Seed at totallandscapecare.com/ the-mustard-seed.
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chemical care
Fungicides Take the Fall Your biggest turf problem could be a case of mistaken identity.
Red thread is one of the most common fungal diseases found on residential lawns.
BY CINDY RATCLIFF
I
f your turf isn’t responding to fungicides, it could be that you have 99 problems, but turf disease isn’t one of them. Turf disease is not the most common problem for residential and commercial properties, which could be why it ranks as one of the most misdiagnosed problems. There are other more common turf problems that are often mistaken for turf disease, and they can easily lure you down the trail to mistaken identity. You should be careful that you aren’t lulled into erring in the other direction, either. Turf disease is a very real problem,
even on landscape turf. If you think you have a disease problem and it’s not responding to fungicides, it’s time to troubleshoot. Get a second opinion, reconsider the product you’re using and closely examine your application methods. Following these steps should reveal the real trouble with turf.
Close won’t cut it The No. 1 reason a fungicide management program isn’t effective: Disease isn’t really the problem. “Most likely, the disease you are trying to manage has not been properly diagnosed. If your
fungicide program is not working, you should contact your nearest turfgrass pathologist and get an appropriate diagnosis,” says Jim Kerns, Ph.D., assistant professor and extension specialist for turfgrass pathology at North Carolina State University. “We rarely see massive disease issues in landscape turf. It’s more likely some abiotic is a problem, like soil type, fertility, etc.” If a turf problem comes on suddenly, is widespread and severe, that’s a clue that something other than turf disease is causing it and should prompt you to explore other options,
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Chazz hesselein, alabama Cooperative extension system, bugwood.org
chemical care
howard F. sChwartz, Colorado state university. bugwood.org
symptoms of rhizoctonia can come on quickly as rough, circular brown patches.
spring dead spot is a difficult disease to manage. it can recur in the same spot each year.
according to the University of California Integrated Pest Management Program. Turf damage that could be mistaken for disease is often caused by heat stress, compaction, fertilizer, water, herbicides, mowing and poor drainage. In fact, the University of California
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IPM reports irrigation problems are the most common cause of discolored lawns. Diseases in turf typically start small, with a few spots or patches. If you’ve ruled out other causes for turf decline and are convinced that a disease is the culprit, your next move should
be to get a second opinion. “Get a professional diagnosis if you suspect a disease is problematic,” Kerns says. “Even if it is not a disease, a local extension specialist or turfgrass pathologist will likely be able to help you correct the problem.” At many universities, you can receive lab result in as little as 24 hours that will pinpoint the problem and provide positive identification.
Product performance
The most overlooked element when selecting a fungicide, according to Kerns, is a basic understanding of the way it works. Ignoring mode of action can make an otherwise great product unsuitable for you. “Topical mode of action, how
chemical care
the fungicide moves on or within the plant” is a critical component to consider when selecting a product, Kerns says. “This is important because selecting the best product is key but also understanding how the fungicide reacts when it comes into contact with the plant is of paramount importance.” Contact fungicides provide a broad spectrum of control but do not move appreciably within the plant, staying primarily on the leaf and stem surfaces. This makes them an appropriate choice for foliar diseases. Systemic fungicides are absorbed and translocated within the plant, making them the better choice for diseases of roots and crowns (although they can also be used for foliar diseases). Having a basic understanding of the modes of action, in combination with a positive identification of the disease, will go a long way in narrowing product selection.
“If a disease does break out, keep in mind a return to weather favorable for turf growth and vigor will help alleviate the problem.” — Paul Vincelli, Ph.D., extension professor, plant pathology, the University of Kentucky
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In the trifecta of disease control, it’s all or nothing. Even if you’ve pinpointed the problem and chosen the most effective product, a misapplication will leave you disappointed, wondering what went wrong. Under- or over-applying a fungicide is a common mistake, Kerns says. For fungicides to be effective, you must use them at their recommended rates. Double check the rate on the label and be
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on target and water is draining properly, fertilizer is moderated and thatch is eliminated will promote a healthy turf. “If a disease does break out, keep in mind a return to weath-
Gray leaf spot threatens turf in wet and humid conditions, especially young perennial ryegrass and tall fescue.
Cultural control The best way to deal with turf disease is to discourage it by promoting good cultural practices that result in dense, vigorous turf. Making sure grass is not mowed too short, irrigation is
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careful you don’t make a mistake in your calculations. The label will usually provide a range of application rates that pertain to using the product preventively or curatively. “Fungicides can be used on a preventive basis – usually at lower rates and/or at longer intervals between applications – when disease outbreak has not yet occurred but when weather favorable for disease is expected,” says Paul Vincelli, Ph.D., extension professor, plant pathology, the University of Kentucky. “Conversely, fungicides may be used on a curative basis – often at higher rates and/or at shorter intervals – after an outbreak has occurred and disease pressure is high,” he says.
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Tundra to A the Max Toyota’s 2014 Tundra premium model crewcab 4x4 brings Lexus-like appointments to the jobsite BY BRUCE W. SMITH
nyone who spends seat time behind the wheel of Toyota’s top-of-the-rock Platinum-edition Tundra will get a true sense of luxury and power, while at the same time, having no doubt the truck can hold its own if taxed towing an equipment trailer or making a run to the home center or nursery for a load of mulch. The 2014 Tundra has some minor body-design changes to the hood and grille and small tuning changes to the suspension. But in totality, it’s much the same as the model it replaces. What Toyota has done is
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ProPickup
up the trim levels to compete against the Big Three’s high-end offerings – and they have done that well. The Crew Max Platinum edition that I spent a week in is right at home taking clients to a classy restaurant and having the valet park it next to any Lexus. The truck is richly appointed with a leather interior and has more rear passenger legroom than any SUV. Extra legroom is what the Crew Max is all about, with nearly 8 inches of more space between the front and rear seat than the standard Double Cab model. The benefits of the longer cab spill over into payload, too.
The Crew Max 4x4 can haul 100 pounds more than the Double Cab (7,100 pounds vs. 7,200 pounds) The trade-off: a 5-foot 6-inch bed instead of the 6 1/2-foot bed. Although probably not of much consequence to most landscapers hauling lawnservice equipment trailers, towing capacity also takes a small hit: The Crew Max 4x4 is limited to towing 9,000 pounds, where as the Double Cab can pull 9,800 pounds. (Note: All Tundras require the use of a weight-distributing hitch on trailered weights exceeding 5,000 pounds.) From a power perspective, the 2014 Tundra’s 381-horsepower
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BASIC SPECIFICATIONS Make/Model: 2014 Toyota Tundra Crew Max Platinum 4x4 MSRP: $47,320 Price As Tested: $48,475 Engine: 381-horsepower aluminum 5.7L V-8
Transmission: 6-speed automatic Axle Ratio: 4.30 Curb weight: 5,860 pounds Max Tow Capacity: 9,000 pounds
Bed cargo management utilizes sliding tie-downs, while the optional factory liner keeps the bed from getting beat up.
5.7L i-FORCE V8 and six-speed automatic will out run all of the competitors’ 5Ls I’ve tested to
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date in a flat-out drag race – and out stop them all on the other end.
Fuel Economy: EPA: 13/17/15 Observed: 14 city/18.2 hwy Performance: 0-60mph: 7.2 sec ¼-Mile: 15.4 @ 92 mph 60-0 mph: 121 feet
I ran the Tundra at Gulfport Dragway where most of our track numbers are gathered. It’s just a couple of miles from my office on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The Tundra Crew Max is impressive for a 5,800-pound 4x4. Our Stalker radar system showed it took 7.2 clicks to hit 60 mph and 15.4 seconds to break the 1/4-mile traps at 90.2 mph. Part of that performance is due to 4.30-axle ratios and the close ratio of the six-speed automatic, which works in tandem to give good launch and smooth power transitions during shifts. That smooth, steady power also shows up when towing. The
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tested came equipped with an excellent navigation and sound system that had a big, bright screen and decent back-up camera. The camera and big screen made it easy to back up
to a trailer in the dark and park the hitch ball right under the trailer’s tongue: a real time saver for those who tow a lot. Interior seating is firm, and the power front seats have more
Bridgestone all-season tires are excellent for pavement driving, wet or dry. But they don’t fair well in mud of any type.
other part is the engine is just plain stout. Fuel economy is still so-so; Toyota didn’t make any changes to the engine in the new model, so the EPA numbers are still 13/17/15 (city/highway/combined.) The good news is I saw 18.2 mpg during a 100-mile interstate cruise at 70 mph and 14 mpg in stop-and-go city driving. I’d expect towing numbers of the typical landscaper’s trailers to be similar to what Ford, GM and Nissan’s truck V-8s get: low, double digit if aggressive driving is avoided. As for the overall ride quality, I found the suspension, when the truck is unloaded, to be a little tighter than the competitor’s 1/2-tons, more so in the rear than the front. With a 4,200-pound trailer in tow, it settles down some, but it still has that jittery feel. Steering is light, the brakes quick and firm. Driver visibility is excellent to the front and sides; not so much so over the right shoulder where the longer cab creates a big blind spot. (Hence the need for the blind-spot mirror with traffic alert option that’s $500.) The Crew Max Platinum I
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adjustments than you’ll ever need. The interior is also quiet, even at freeway speeds. There’s a little wind noise, but nothing that set our sound meter from reading a steady 68 dB.
The bed is the deepest in the full-size pickup market, and it’s equipped with adjustable tie-downs along both sides. The high bedsides increase payload capacity of materials such as
mulch, gravel and sand. But the high sides also make it difficult to reach in a cross-bed toolbox or objects in the bed without dropping the tailgate or using a side step of some sort. Those are nit-picks. Overall, I have to give the 2014 Tundra Crew Max 4x4 Platinum a strong B+: It has all of the power you’d every need in a 1/2-ton for work or recreational towing, and the Platinum’s features do make the occupants feel like they are riding in the lap of luxury. If the next generation has less plastic in the interior and brings more state-of-the-art engine technology to play for better fuel economy, they are on track for an “A” in my book.
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The Platinum edition’s gated automatic is nicely mated to the V-8, and the manual-shift mode is great for trailer towing.
Watch a road test with the 2014 Toyota Tundra at totallandscapecare.com/ tundra-road-test. NEW GRILLES FOR CHEVY, FORD®, GMC®, POLARIS® AND TOYOTA®
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Join the Conversation Stay updated on green industry news, network with other pros, find project ideas, watch equipment videos and much more on Total Landscape Care magazine’s website and social media pages.
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Lawn Maintenance BY LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE
Cut and treat lawns with these products and equipment
Eliminate Attachment Guesswork
Even Spread EcoLawn Applicator’s self-propelled Eco200 top dresser has a reverse spin, dual-wheel broadcast system. The top dresser also has a four-wheel design for increased weight distribution. While sporting the same 1/3-cubic-yard hopper, the Eco200 has a larger hopper opening, compared to previous models. ecolawnapplicator.com
Available this month, the John Deere 4M and 4R Series compact utility tractors feature Tier 4 Final engines that range from 43 to 66 horsepower. The 4R tractors have Hitch Assist, enabling operators to attach rear implements by standing behind the machine. The 4R models, which are available with an enclosed cab, also include integrated hydrostatic transmission controls on a single panel. The 4M machines are equipped with a hydrostatic transmission with Twin Touch pedals. To watch a video of the 4M and 4R tractors, visit totallandscapecare.com/deere-tractors.
Mow Tight Spots Adding to its line of all-wheel drive (AWD) walk mowers, Husqvarna released three new models: HU675AWD, HU725AWD and HU725AWD/BBC – which adds a blade brake clutch (BBC) allowing operators to stop the blade. Each mower features a quickpin, four-point adjustment and water hose connector. The HU675AWD has a 2-in-1 cutting deck and a mulch and rear bagging system. With a 3-in-1 cutting system, the HU725AWD can bag, mulch and side discharge. husqvarna.com
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To see more lawn maintenance equipment and products, visit totallandscapecare. com/new-lawnmaintenance.
Electric Start
Deep Deck The Altoz XP Z line of ZTR mowers is available in three deck sizes – 48, 54 and 61 inches – and two Briggs & Stratton engine options. The XP S line features the Aero Deck high-output system, which includes 12 cutting edges and a 18,5000 fpm tip speed. The mower has a 7-gallon fuel tank, top speed of 9 mph, 23-inch rear tires, 12-volt accessory outlet and deck height adjustments in 1/4-inch increments from 1 1/2 to 4 1/2 inches. altoz.com
The TurfEx RS7200E spreader/sprayer features an electric start, adjustable electric spray pump and a hand-held spray wand. Driven by a 7-horsepower Subaru EX210 engine and a 0.95-gallon fuel tank, the machine has a 17-gallon tank system. Its front-mounted, boomless nozzle can spray between 3 and 11 feet wide, and the RS7200E’s hopper holds up to 150 pounds, or 3 cubic feet of material. A pressure gauge, liquid level gauge, digital tachometer and lubrication indicator come standard. turfexproducts.com
Herbicide Trio Kill weeds with PBI-Gordon’s ProForm line of herbicides. SpeedZone broadleaf herbicide for turf offers broad-spectrum control of tough weeds, and results can be seen within 24 hours, according to the company. Surge broadleaf herbicide for turf uses a water-based formula to kill weeds. To control crabgrass, sedge and broadleaf weeds, turn to Q4 Plus turf herbicide. The company warns against using these products when temperatures exceed 90-degrees Fahrenheit. pbigordon.com
For product information, text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCREQUEST.COM
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Distribute Clippings The Honda Power Equipment HRX and HRR lawn mowers include redesigned features for crews needed to cut tight areas. The HRX models use a Versamow System that distributes clippings to the bag and ground. The system also offers a setting for leaf shredding where leaves are recirculated until they are small enough to pass into the bag. The HRR mowers include a timing belt, offset twinblade MicroCut System and 3-in1 Clip Director. powerequipment. honda.com
Dump in Truck The Grasshopper Company expanded its PowerVac collection system with the HighLift 15B. The collector can be emptied from a raised position by flipping a switch. With a 72-inch vertical emptying height, the HighLift features a 15-cubic-foot capacity and a tapered bottom that compacts debris for continued productivity with fewer stops. Fabricated claw arms inside the collector facilitate discharge of compacted debris. grasshoppermower.com
Expanding Pellets Profile Products’ CoverGrow can be applied by hand, spreader or sprayed hydraulically. Once activated by water, the pellets expand in size and disperse – a 40-pound bag of CoverGrow yields 50 pounds of coverage. Made from recycled wood and cellulose fibers, CoverGrow pellets also feature an advanced tackifier technology that helps resist rainfall impact and keep the pellets in place. They are ideal for reseeding irregular shapes and bare or dead spots on roadside strips, golf courses and lawns. profilecovergrow.com
Extended Control Environmental Science, a division of Bayer CropScience LP, launched Specticle plus fertilizer – a herbicide that provides up to eight months of residual control. Specticle plus fertilizer is available in two different concentrations and a variety of fertilizer blends, and it controls more than 75 broadleaf and grassy weeds, including annual bluegrass, goosegrass, crabgrass and annual sedge. bayercropscience.us
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Download Safety Manuals Find safety resources for you and your crews with Total Landscape Care’s Safety Watch issues. The bilingual articles describe landscaping accidents and how they could have been avoided. Download entire issues, which have a year’s worth of Safety Watch articles, or just read them straight from the site.
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portfolio
PROJECT:
Private residence, Lexington, Kentucky
LANDSCAPING: Red Oak Design, Lexington, Kentucky redoakdesign.net
Spotlight Features Landscaper shines a new light on seating area and water fountain BY LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE
A
To have y our project fe atured, email hig h-resolutio n photos, a descriptio n of the pro ject & the name of your busin ess to lheartsi ll.rrpub @gmail.c om.
stunning project shouldn’t only be enjoyed while the sun’s out – which is why these homeowners wanted to highlight their hardscapes and bubbling water feature through the night. The clients recently had a seating area installed, along with a millstone fountain as the focal point. They wanted the space illuminated so they could use it with friends and family at night, as well as see the space from inside their house, says Kyle Adamson, owner and lighting designer of Red Oak Design. Red Oak Design – an architectural, landscape lighting and design/build company located in Lexington, Kentucky – added up lighting around the serviceberry trees that surrounded the area. They installed one down light on the water feature, which also casts beautiful shadows on the patio. To ensure safe access, the landscape team lined the stepping-stones and steps with path lights. Adamson used CopperMoon fixtures with Brilliance LED bulbs. To see more photos from this project, visit totallandscapecare.com/spotlight-features.
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Spend more time cutting, and less time worrying.
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A computer aided cutting deck design delivers premium cut quality and dispersal at high speeds. Extensive use of heavy gauge steel, cast iron and oversized components combine to provide solid commercial construction for increased durability, even in the most demanding conditions. Plus, with a 3 year commercial warranty and a limited lifetime warranty on the deck leading edge, blade spindle housing and frame - you will only be concerned about the time you save. To find out more about our products, or find a dealer near you, visit dixon-ztr.com
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7-GAUGE FLOATING MOWER DECK WITH OPTIONAL MULCH ON DEMAND
PROPANE CONVERSION KIT
Here’s an offer everyone can stand to use. If you’re comparing stand-on mowers, there’s one that stands apart from the others. The John Deere QuikTrak™ delivers a stand-on experience like no other. Best in class stability, industry exclusive stand-on technology, and a compact design add up to a machine that’s a joy to operate. Ergonomic controls make for greater maneuverability. And an exclusive Mulch On Demand™ option lets you mulch or side-discharge instantly with just a press of a button. There’s even a propane version available.
+
until January 2015
on all QuikTrak Stand-On Mowers*
If you’re in the market for a stand-on mower, you need to step on the one that’ll help you stand apart. Visit your local John Deere dealer for a demo today.
Keep Mowing * Offers available from March 04, 2014 through April 30, 2014. Subject to approved installment credit with John Deere Financial, for commercial use only. Up to a 10% down payment may be required. Taxes, freight, setup and delivery charges could increase monthly payment. Some restrictions apply, so see your dealer for complete details and other fnancing options, including fnancing for Consumer use. Available at participating dealers. 57881
Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit www.tlcrequest.com
JohnDeere.com/MowPro