TLC0614 by Richard Street

JUNE 2014

TotalLandscapeCare.com

Wowing with

Water

Tips for installing features in small spaces page 28 Reader Project page 32 Photos

+ How To Properly Tow & Inspect Trailers page 45

Shrubs: New, Old Favorites page 22

1 Based on class 3â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5 pickup-based conventional cab chassis over 10,000 GCWR. 2 See dealer for details and a copy of Limited Warranty. 3 Includes $500 ON-THE-JOB Upfit Bonus Cash Allowance on most 2013 and 2014 Ram Commercial vehicles. Must take delivery by 6/30/14. See participating dealer for ON-THE-JOB incentive details and eligibility requirements. Ram and HEMI are registered trademarks of Chrysler Group LLC. Cummins is a registered trademark of Cummins Inc.

RAM CHASSIS CAB ®

BEST-IN-CLASS GCWR – 37,500 LBS1 AVAILABLE 6.7L CUMMINS® TURBO DIESEL ENGINE NEW 6.4L HEMI® GAS ENGINE WITH MDS FUEL SAVING TECHNOLOGY 5-YEAR/100,000-MILE POWERTRAIN LIMITED WARRANTY 2

Up to 1500 $

in ON-THE-JOB incentives in addition to current offers.

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CASE equipment delivers the features rental customers look for. Our 580N backhoe loader feature 42 bushing joints for durability and ease of service. Zero tail swing on the 586H rough terrain forklift minimizes potential damage while providing a 31% better turning radius. And our skid steer loaders feature EH controls with more than 500 setting configurations to match operator preferences and applications. CASE machines can help haul in something else â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ROI.

CaseCE.com ÂŠ2014 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.

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table of contents

June 2014 Volume 8 | Issue 6

industry news

Breaking Ground: Merger of Two Giants

Field Report: Wild Life

What does a ValleyCrest-Brickman “super” company mean for landscapers?

The Audubon Zoo in New Orleans protects historical trees, marketing tips and an unlikely pet pair

equipment

Editor’s Picks: Clear Sites

Safety Watch: Beat the Heat

Move snow, rocks, grass and more with these new machines.

How to stay safe and cool on the jobsite this summer

ProPickup: Properly Equipped

Those two towing words can mean the difference between a safe driver and a negligent one.

Roundup: Hardscape Materials

Impress customers with these pavers, retaining walls and planks.

business

Landscaper of the Year Finalist: The Perfect Storm

How a landscaper learned from past experiences to turn the impossible into reality

PHOTO COURTESY OF LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS BY SUSAN MURPHY

design/build

Shrubs

Foliage: Structure with

Provide color, interest and dependability with these new and old varieties.

Cover Story: Small Space, Big “Wow” Factor

Tips for installing refreshing water features in tight spots

Reader Projects: Submerge into Tranquility

Readers share their water feature project photos.

Portfolio: Cheer-Worthy Hardscape

Alabama landscaper creates ultimate outdoor space for game activities

Cover Photo: Pittsburgh Stone & Waterscapes (pghsw.com) installed this 20-foot-long pond in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, which includes a 12-foot-tall waterfall. Dean Beattie/Photography

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TotalLa nd s ca p eCa r e.co m 3

Professional equipment for demanding jobs. The Husqvarna Professional Series mowers represents the latest in high performance drive systems and operator interface. Combined with high productivity cutting deck designs, these mowers deliver premium cut quality and clipping dispersal at higher ground speeds. Careful consideration of components and design not only provide extended durability but unprecendented ease of service access. To find out more about our products, or find a dealer near you, visit husqvarna.com

HUSQVARNA PZ SeRieS Kawasaki and Kohler engines 54" - 72" fabricated decks Starting at: $9,799.95

Financing, Commercial Fleet & Demo Programs Available Special Husqvarna financing options are available for qualified applicants. See dealer for details. *Only available for qualified applicants. Limited time offer. Financing available on new equipment in US only. Some restrictions apply. Available only at participating dealers. Visit your Husqvarna dealer for complete details.

For up to 48 months*

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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

Design & Production

Art Director: Richard Street Graphic Designer: Timothy Smith Advertising Production Manager: Linda Hapner production@totallandscapecare.com

Construction Media

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 RandallReilly 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...

Merger of Two Giants What does a ValleyCrest-Brickman ‘super’ company mean for landscapers? When news broke in April of Brickman Group possibly acquiring ValleyCrest, many landscape business owners were upset. And when the companies entered into a definitive agreement in late May, making it official, industry concern only grew. The idea of a “super” landscape company can seem a bit frightening for the average-size landscaper, leading many to draw a Walmart vs. mom-and-pop shops comparison. But, it actually might have several benefits for owners. Undoubtedly, there will be layoffs between the two companies, which have a combined total of 20,000 employees, because of overlapping roles. And what’s one of the hardest things for landscapers to find? Good employees. So as these companies become one, keep your eyes open for their now-jobless workers. No one can be absolutely sure how this merger will shake down or affect the overall company, so use that to your advantage. With all of the uncertainty, their clients may be uneasy and willing to give you their accounts. Here’s something else to remember: This new joint company is owned by KKR, which is a private equity firm. The investors want to get their money back quickly, which requires high goals and tight deadlines. So, it’s not being run by landscapers, like you, who know their area and can adjust quickly if needed. You’ll be able to give clients personal attention that will be hard to find in a nearly $2 billion company. Many landscapers are still unhappy about the merger, but it’s happening. So, will you make the best of it? Share what you think. Comment and see what other landscapers have to say about the ValleyCrest-Brickman merger at totallandscapecare.com/ valleycrest-brickman-merger. Lauren Heartsill Dowdle Editor-At-Large

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Easy. Versatile. Economical.

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Perfection is hard to duplicate. At Keystone, we pride ourselves on perfection. That’s why Keystone Walls has been the #1 segmental retaining wall system for over 25 years. With our high-strength pin connection system, our walls are unmatched in strength, versatility, and ease of installation. With Keystone – you can count on your project being a success!

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To view Keystone’s complete line of innovative products and project ideas, visit us online at www.keystonewalls.com or call 1-800-747-8971. Keystone is proud to be a subsidiary of Contech Engineered Solutions LLC Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit www.tlcrequest.com

FieldReport: news, trends & cool stuff By Lauren Heartsill Dowdle

Historical Wildlife Audubon Zoo finds natural solutions to protect trees

n a city rich with history, the oldest living thing in New Orleans, Louisiana, is at the Audubon Zoo. The oaks – with the de Boré oak planted as early as 1740 – are all more than 100 years old and are top attractions at the zoo, which has deep The historical oaks surround the zoo, including a few that are inside the animals’ enclosures. The zoo staff roots in the past. creates its natural compost (bottom right) to use around the grounds. To protect these several-century-old trees, the zoo’s grounds crew cardboard boxes and contributions from zebras, takes special precautions, which include adding ostrich and elephants. lighting-protection wires. They also shoot air into After combining the materials, they heat the the ground around the roots a few times each year pathogen-free compost to 150 degrees. Once it’s to help eliminate compaction, says Dianne Weber, the right consistency, they sift and bag it. Any leftgrounds director at Audubon Zoo. overs are sold in the gift shop and to local garden They have to go natural when it comes to giving shops. the trees nutrients. Since zebras, rhinos and other While none of the animals were lost during animals graze under and around the oaks, the zoo Hurricane Katrina, Weber and her team had a lot grounds team can’t use fertilizers with chemicals. of work in front of them after the storm hit New Instead, they create their own, which they call Orleans and are still dealing with the aftermath, ZooDoo Gold. which includes eliminating weeds that spread durThey use plant clippings, tree chippings, oak ing the devastation. leaves, shredded office paper, fruit and vegetable To see more tree and animal photos from the waste from the concessions, Starbucks coffee grind, zoo, visit totallandscapecare.com/audubon-zoo.

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fieldreport:

Sun Protection Cases of skin cancer in Hispanic population drastically increase

ith the cold weather finally giving way to sunnier days in most areas, it’s becoming even more important to stay cool and protected while outside this summer. As National Safety Month, June is the perfect time for landscapers to address sun safety with their crews – something that is causing problems for many workers. In the past two decades, melanoma cases among Hispanics have grown almost 20 percent, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. And since there are more than 500,000 Hispanic workers in the landscape industry across the United States – according to the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce – it’s important for business owners to teach their employees how to stay safe in the sun. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause premature skin aging, wrinkles, cataracts and skin cancer. Here are tips from OSHA to help reduce the harmful effects of being in the sun: Cover up: Wear clothing that blocks out light. To test a garment, place your hand under the fabric when in front of a light source. If you can see your hand, the clothing does not provide much protection. Also, wear a wide-brim hat, which will protect your neck, ears, eyes, nose, forehead and scalp. UV-

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absorbent sunglasses can also provide protection. Lather up: Sunscreen of at least 15 SPF blocks 93 percent of UV rays. Reapply as directed on the bottle/tube. Wise up. UV rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., which is the main workday for most crews. Be mindful of the rays, and find shade when possible. Check up. Be on the lookout for irregular or large moles that could be skin cancer. If you have freckles, fair skin or blond, red or light brown hair, you have an increased chance of burning. For more tips on working in the heat, turn to page 19. To read and download more safety articles, visit totallandscapecare.com/safetywatch.

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fieldreport:

Pets We Dig

Unlikely Duo

an’s best friend soon became this cat’s best friend, too. Elizabeth Lyon, sales and marketing coordinator with Continuum Services in Southfield, Michigan, found her cat, Bentley, as a stray when he was five weeks old. The cat soon became close friends with her Golden Retriever, Sydney, and followed her everywhere. These two slept, ate, played and rode in the car together. Their favorite spot was outside in the backyard where they would lounge and bask in the sun. Unfortunately, when Lyon took Bentley to the vet, she found out he had Feline Leukemia, and he eventually developed myocardiopathy. The

Bentley (cat) and Sydney

cat’s conditions required several vet and specialist visits, but Sydney was always along for the ride to be with her little buddy. Sadly, in late 2012, Bentley lost his battle at 2 1/2 years old. “[They were] an unlikely pair that couldn’t be more alike,” Lyon says. To have your pet featured online and in the magazine, visit PetsWeDig.com and enter your pet’s photo.

How To Generate and Convert Leads

inding new leads is hard enough – but once a landscaper locates prospects, how can they convert them into actual clients? That’s the topic Joy Gendusa, founder and CEO of PostcardMania, tackled in TLC’s webinar last month. She shared the 10 elements of good direct mail, including clear headlines, graphics that support the message, colors that pop, wording and more. Another marketing tool landscapers can use to promote their services are door hangers. Gendusa posed questions to ask before approving the materials, including checking the

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message they convey, if they reach the target audience and about having a direct call-to-action. But just reaching prospects once isn’t enough, as Gendusa points out. She says 80 percent of sales are made on the fifth to 12th contact. And once someone fills out a form saying they want to be contacted, it’s best to contact them right away. If they are reached with five minutes, the chance of making the sale is greatly improved. For more marketing tips, watch the webinar at totallandscapecare.com/ marketing-webinar.

Find M o re Clients

YOUR PLANS. CARRIED OUT.

Building your landscape business together. To grow your business, you need equipment thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seeded with your thinking throughout. And rooted in the needs of your company. No wonder our E-Series Skid Steers and CTLs are perennial favorites. You wanted more foot room. We achieved it by making the foors fat. You wanted more horsepower. We upped it by 10% on our large-frame models. You wanted switchable controls. We offer selectable ISO, H-pattern, and foot controls on all models. You wanted easier attachment hookup. We hooked you up. To learn more, see your dealer or visit our website. Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit www.tlcrequest.com

JohnDeere.com/Eskid

THE SPACIOUS CAB FEATURES AN AIR SUSPENSION SEAT AND ERGONOMIC JOYSTICK CONTROLS IN A COMFORTABLE WORKING ENVIRONMENT LOAD-SENSING HYDRAULICS WITH ELECTRONIC PUMP CONTROL PROVIDE BETTER PUMP RESPONSE FOR IMPROVED BACKHOE PRODUCTIVITY

NEW LARGER TORQUE CONVERTER DELIVERS GREATER PUSHING POWER, INCREASED AGGRESSIVENESS IN HARD BANK DIGGING AND FASTER ROADING AND HILL CLIMBING

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NEW FRONT LOADER ARMS DELIVER MORE REACH, DUMP HEIGHT AND BREAKOUT

KEY MACHINE FEATURES TO DEMAND ON YOUR NEXT MACHINE. From our F-Series Backhoe Loader to the E-Series Excavators, each machine is equipped with industry exclusive features that give contractors a hand up over the competition. The unique features enable you to bid jobs more competitively, knowing you have the machine to finish the job on time and under budget.

SINCE 1933 Louisiana Cat www.LouisianaCat.com 866-843-7440

SINCE 1982 Puckett Machinery Co. www.puckettmachinery.com Flowood, MS 601-969-6000 | 800-748-3095

SINCE 1927 Riggs CAT riggscat.com Little Rock, AR 800-876-1021

Your Cat® dealer is your single source for all your equipment needs.

SINCE 1985 Warren CAT warrencat.com Oklahoma City, OK | Tulsa, OK 1-866-2WARREN

© 2014 Caterpillar All rights reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow,” the “Power Edge” trade dress as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission. www.cat.com www.caterpillar.com

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editor’s picks

BY LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE

Move snow, rocks, grass and more with these new machines.

Bagging options

Clear sites Cut overgrown grass, brush and small trees with Bobcat’s Brushcat rotary cutter attachment. Transforming undergrowth into mulch, the attachment is designed for clearing trails, pastures or new construction sites. Available in five models, the rotary cutters have a standard 3-inch cutting height and are compatible with select Bobcat skid steers, compact track loaders, all-wheel steer loaders, Toolcat machines and the V417 VersaHandler telescopic tool carrier. For more information, visit bobcat.com.

Toro’s 8000 Series Direct Collect Z mowers have a rear-discharge design and are equipped with a large-diameter blower. Operators can choose 100-percent bagging, 50-percent bagging/50percent mulching or 100-percent mulching. The mowers travel 7 mph, are available with 42- or 48-inch cutting decks and are equipped with either a 20.5-horsepower Kohler Command Pro or 23-horsepower Kohler Command Pro EFI engine. For more information, visit toro.com.

For product information, text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCREQUEST.COM

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Tota lLa nd s ca p eCa r e.com 13

Responsiveness matched only by its shadow.

now that’s smaRt. Take control of your day in the Boomer™ 3000 with help from: • EasyDrive™ Series II Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for seamless speed changes • Single-pedal control to manage travel and engine speed • Cruise control to hold, fine tune or resume working speed • Four-wheel drive at the flip of a switch for improved handling • R3 turf tires with shallow treads for gentler traction (optional)

Find out about the latest offers from your New Holland dealer at newholland.com/NA ©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. NHB05149379R3

Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit www.tlcrequest.com

editor’s picks

finish the job.

and then keep

going.

Transport materials Move heavy loads with a riding mower using the OxCart utility cart. With a power-assist lift, OxCart has a side-dumping feature that rotates 110 degrees from either direction. The cart also has run-flat, tractor-grade turf tires, a full mandrel-bend steel axle and offset dump pivot. For more information, visit oxcart.com.

Stack & screen Process materials with one of Lake Erie Portable Screeners’ three roller bed conveyors. The screening equipment can be used with the company’s Pitbull 2300 screening plant to produce three grades of material at once. Users can adjust the stacking and radial stacking models from 5 to 11 feet high and feed material directly into a loading vehicle. The ground conveyor is mounted on a rugged steel frame that rests directly on the ground. For more information, visit pitbullscreeners.com.

For product information, text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCREQUEST.COM

Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCrequest.com

Find out about the latest offers from your New Holland dealer at newholland.com/na ©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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POWER SPOKEN HERE. Turf pros count on Kawasaki power. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s their #1 choice,* and the only SAE Certified turf engine. Trust our power to get your job done. Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit www.tlcrequest.com

* Survey conducted in November, 2013 by Orman Guidance Research, an independent research firm commissioned by Kawasaki Motors Corp., USA. Details at kawpower.com.

editor’s picks

Heavy lifting Move heavy hardscape materials with the Bradco hardscape grapple by Paladin Attachments. Mounted on a skid steer, compact tool carrier or compact tractor, the hydraulically powered attachment can be used to transport concrete paver sections, small boulders and limestone steps. The grapple’s arms and rubber grips automatically adjust to the shape of the material, and a cylinder check valve prevents loss of clamping force even if the power is lost. For more information, visit paladinattachments.com.

Gas engine Now available with a gas engine, the Vermeer S800TX compact skid steer has a 40-horsepower Kubota EFI engine. The S800TX has a 2,400-pound tipping capacity and trenches up to 48 inches deep. The operator station features a single, pilot-operated joystick and a springcushioned platform. An optional dual-auxiliary system provides the operator with dedicated high- and low-flow circuits. For more information, visit vermeer.com.

Clear the way Manage ice on sidewalks and other small areas with SnowEx’s push sprayers: the SL-80 and SL-80SS. Both are electric powered and include an adjustable-height boomless nozzle, which sprays most salt brine and liquid ice melters up to 48 inches wide. Available with a powder-coated steel frame (SL-80) or stainlesssteel frame (SL-80SS), the sprayers are powered by a 12-volt electric pump and rechargeable battery. For more information, visit snowexproducts.com.

Rubber edge Push snow straight ahead without leaving windrows or damaging surfaces with the Land Pride SSP15 and SSP25, which are each available in three sizes to fit skid steers or tractors. The 15 Series is available in 72-, 84- and 96-inch widths, and the 25 Series has 86-inch, 10-foot and 12-foot widths. All models come equipped with AR400 skid shoes that are adjustable, reversible and replaceable. For more information, visit landpride.com.

For product information, text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCREQUEST.COM

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TotalLa nd s ca p eCa r e.com 17

Some kids have their futures handed to them. I had to push. With college only a few years away, I was looking for ways to earn a little extra cash. So my dad, wise man that he is, gave me the best gift he could – an old, beat-up push mower – and sent me on my way. I made enough that spring and summer to buy a better mower the following year. And that mower earned me my first Grasshopper. By the time college enrollment came around, I was looking at trucks and trailers, had two buddies working alongside me and was building a reputation for the best cut in town. Sure, it took me a bit longer to get that business degree – but it also ensured I never had to worry about tuition and books, and took the financial pressure off Mom and Dad. Now I’ve got both a successful business and a degree. And while I had to push a bit to get started, thanks to my Grasshoppers, the future looks like a pretty smooth ride.

IT’S SO MUCH MOWER

Model 725DT MaxTorque™ Diesel FrontMount™

Read one military hero’s story at grasshoppermower.com/warrior

Proud Partner

For more information, call 620-345-8621 or visit grasshoppermower.com

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Beat the Heat BY LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE

How to stay safe and cool this summer THE ACCIDENT: A California landscape crewmember is cutting grass at a residential site at 5 p.m. He begins to feel sick and asks another employee to finish cutting the lawn while he takes a break. When the coworker finishes cutting the lawn, he sees the crewmember is ill and disoriented, so he calls 911. The crewmember is taken to the hospital, and he dies several hours later from a heat-related illness.

THE BOTTOM LINE: When employees are working in a hot environment, their body must get rid of excess heat to maintain a stable internal temperature. If the body can’t get rid of excess heat, it will store it. When this happens, their core temperature rises, and the heart rate increases. If the body continues to store heat, the person will lose concentration and have difficulty focusing on tasks. They may also become irritable, sick or lose the desire to drink. After that, the worker may faint and even die if they are not cooled down. Here are ways to help prevent heat-related sicknesses. • Monitor environmental conditions, and develop a work/rest schedule to accommodate high heat and humidity. • Supervisors should be trained on how to prevent, recognize and treat heat illness. • Drink water every 15 minutes, even if you’re

ILLUSTRATION BY DON LOMAX

not thirsty. Avoid caffeine.

• Rest in the shade to cool down. • Wear a hat and light-colored clothing. • New workers or ones not used to being in the heat should go through an acclimation program. Begin with 50 percent of the normal workload in the hot environment and build up to 100 percent during a five-day period. • Learn the signs of heat illness, and keep an eye on fellow workers. Don’t leave someone alone if they show symptoms. For more Safety Watch articles, visit totallandscapecare.com/safetywatch.

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Supere el calor POR LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE

Cómo mantenerse fresco y seguro este verano EL ACCIDENTE: El miembro de una cuadrilla de jardinería estaba cortando la hierba en un lugar residencial a las 5 p.m. Empieza a sentirse mal y le pide a otro empleado que termine de cortar el césped mientras se toma un descanso. Cuando el colega termina de cortar el césped, advierte a su compañero enfermo y desorientado, por lo que llama al 911. El miembro de la cuadrilla es llevado al hospital y fallece horas después a causa de un trastorno ocasionado por el calor. CONCLUSIÓN: Cuando los empleados trabajan en un ambiente caluroso, sus cuerpos deben desalojar el calor para mantener una temperatura interna estable. Si el cuerpo no puede desprenderse del excesivo calor, entonces lo almacena. Cuando esto sucede, su temperatura central se eleva y el ritmo cardiaco aumenta. Si el cuerpo continúa almacenando calor, la persona perderá concentración y se le hará difícil enfocarse en sus tareas. También podría sentir irritación, náuseas o perder el deseo de consumir bebidas. Después de ello, el trabajador puede desmayarse e incluso morir si no se le enfría. Aquí algunas maneras de ayudar a prevenir trastornos ocasionados por el calor. • Haga un seguimiento de las condiciones ambientales y desarrolle un programa de trabajo/ descanso para lidiar con el alto calor y la humedad. • Los supervisores deberían recibir capacitación sobre las maneras de prevenir, reconocer y tratar males provocados por el calor.

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ILUSTRACIÓN POR DON LOMAX

• Beba agua cada 15 minutos, incluso si no • • •

•

siente sed. Evite la cafeína. Descanse en la sombra para enfriarse. Utilice un sombrero y ropa de colores claros. Los nuevos trabajadores o aquellos no acostumbrados al calor deberían pasar por un programa de aclimatación. Empiece con un 50 por ciento de la carga de trabajo normal en el ambiente caluroso y vaya subiendo hasta un 100 por ciento durante un periodo de cinco días. Conozca los síntomas del mal de calor, y esté atento a sus compañeros de trabajo. No deje solo a nadie que esté mostrando síntomas.

Para más artículos de Safety Watch visite totallandscapecare.com/safetywatch.

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.

foliage

Ball Ornamentals

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foliage

Proven WinnerS

Structure S with Shrubs Provide color, interest and dependability with these new and old varieties By ArriccA Elin SAnSonE

hrubs are enjoying a resurgence in the world of landscape design. With a myriad of new colors, shapes and sizes, there’s a shrub for every garden setting. “Shrubs are versatile,” says John McDonough, supply manager with Ball Ornamentals. “They’re the bones of good design because they provide structure and fill in the mid-range between annuals and perennials. Plus, they’re relatively inexpensive over the long run.” With the introduction of numerous compact varieties, these plants require less space to fit into today’s smaller home sites. Many are also fuss-free, requiring minimal, if any, shearing to maintain their shapes. In many settings, shrubs are being planted to replace turf and reduce chemical and irrigation costs. Best of all, new hybrids of old favorites have been introduced with improved hardiness. If you’re installing the same shrubs on every site, check out these new varieties to add beauty and reliability to both commercial and residential landscapes.

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foliage

FLOWERING SHRUBS

BALL ORnAmentALS

PROven WInneRS

L.A. Dreamin’ Hydrangea

Magical Robin Weigela (Weigela hybrid, magical series) Intense red blooms pop against bright green foliage. Best bloom in spring, followed by some flowering throughout the season. Dense, tidy plant needs no pruning. Other colors in the series include bright pink or white. Grows 2 1/2 feet tall and wide. *Hardy to USDA Zone 5 *Sun

Oso Happy Smoothie Landscape Rose (Rosa

(Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Lindsey Anne’) Reblooming variety boasts blue, pink and variations of every shade in between on one plant without special soil amendments or fertilizers. Grows 5 feet tall and 6 feet wide. *Hardy to USDA Zone 5 *Part sun

‘ZLeCharlie’) thornless, super cold hardy and long blooming from June to frost. Resists black spot well; doesn’t need spraying. Works well in mixed borders. Grows 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. *Hardy to USDA Zone 4 *Full sun

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foliage

COLORFUL FOLIAGE

PROVEN WINNERS

BALL ORNAMENTALS

Glow Girl Spirea (Spirea betuli-

Sunjoy Tangelo Barberry (Ber-

Lemon Candy Physocarpus

folia ‘Tor Gold’) Lemon-lime foliage that holds its color through three seasons and resists summer burn. Cold hardy. Attracts hummingbirds. Use as foundation planting or in mixed borders. Grows 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. *Hardy to USDA Zone 3 *Sun to part shade

beris thunbergii ‘O’Byrne’) Bright orange foliage often accented by a chartreuse margin. Provides color from spring to fall. Deer resistant. Works well as foundation planting or in mixed borders. Other colors in the new Sunjoy series include gold, red and nearly black. Grows 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. *Hardy to USDA Zone 4 *Full sun

(Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Podaras 3’) Fluorescent gold from spring until summer. Cold-hardy native can tolerate many types of soils. Deer resistant and drought tolerant. Plant in sun for best color. Grows 3 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide. *Hardy to USDA Zone 3 *Sun

Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCrequest.com

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foliage

COMPACT SHRUBS

PrOveN WiNNerS

FAll Creek FArM AND NUrSery

Tiny Wine Ninebark (Physo-

Crème Fraiche Deutzia (Deut-

Blueberry Glaze Blueberry

carpus opulifolius ‘SMPOTW’) Small but mighty, this dwarf variety has dark bronze foliage all season long. Pinkishwhite flowers in spring. Native planting that adapts to most soils. Use in mixed borders, hedges or containers. Grows 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. *Hardy to USDA Zone 3 *Full sun

zia gracilis ‘Mincream’) Pretty variegated foliage looks attractive when planted en masse or with yellow annuals. Deer resistant. Grows 1 to 2 feet tall and wide. *Hardy to USDA Zone 5 *Full sun

(vaccinium angustifolium x myrsinites x corymbosum hybrid, Blueberry Glaze) Attractive and practical, this plant looks like a boxwood with glossy dark green foliage, but yields clusters of inky black edible berries in midsummer. Works as an accent, hedge (can be sheared like a boxwood) or in containers. Grows 2 to 3 feet tall and wide. *Hardy to USDA Zone 5 *Full sun

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foliage

DISTINCTIVE APPEARANCE

BAll OrnAMenTAlS

PrOven WinnerS

Cousin Itt Acacia (Acacia

Black Tower Sambucus (Sam-

Sugar Shack Buttonbush

cognata ‘Mini Cog’) Unique feathery texture with soft, dangling foliage. Thornless and drought tolerant. Provides a beautiful accent in the landscape or in a container. Grows 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide. *Hardy to USDA Zone 9 *Sun

bucus nigra) Upright burgundy-black plant holds its color well in heat. Striking accent plant. narrow habit is good for smaller areas. Grows 6 to 8 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide. *Hardy to USDA Zone 4 *Sun to part sun

(Cephalanthus occidentalis ‘SMCOSS’) native plant that’s been bred to a manageable size for the landscape. Glossy foliage and eye-catching white pincushion flowers with red fruit in fall. Does well in wet conditions. Grows 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. *Hardy to USDA Zone 4 *Sun to part shade

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cover story

Small Space,

Big

Wow Factor BY LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE

Tips for installing refreshing water features in tight spots

he sight and sound of water can transform a client’s yard into a tranquil, relaxing outdoor room – even in small spaces. “People have busy, hectic lives,” says Jeffrey Ingrassia, owner of AquaFX (aquafxpools. com) and Outdoor LivingFX

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(outdoorlivingfx.com) in Mt. Sinai, New York. “They enjoy coming home to a water feature.” But, working with a compact yard can add another level of planning to the project. Here are tips for creating impressive water features, no matter the yard’s size.

Perfect fit Choosing the right type of feature for the space is imperative for a successful install. Urns and bubblers are especially popular for small areas, Ingrassia says. “Even though they aren’t big, elaborate water features,

cover story

This Blue Thumb fountain was created using an Achelous AquaBox, 1,300-gph PondBuilder Mag-Drive Pump and 43-inch-tall ceramic vase.

To drown out the city noise, Magee Design installed this feature in Arlington, Virginia.

they still offer tranquility and a relaxed atmosphere,” he says. Stacked pavers with a recess basin and bubbler are an option. Ben Bowen, landscape manager for Ross NW Watergardens (rossnwwatergardens. com) in Portland, Oregon, and a Landscaper of the Year finalist,

suggests installing a small bubbler or something formal. “The bubble style works with a small footprint, and you don’t generate too much splash,” Bowen says. “Formal water features give you the most control over the wash and splash.” Low-maintenance features, like pondless installs, are also growing in popularity, Bowen says. Another trending style is a variation on the drilled-column water feature. When working around pools, Ingrassia likes to install retaining walls with sheer descents that come out of the wall. The water could recycle through the pool or recirculating basin. In tight spots, he suggests using casted rock that’s backed with rebar and is structurally sound. “If it’s small and they want a huge water feature, try to make

it look more natural,” Ingrassia says. “If they want high water features, boulders are good. But, you need the castings for reinforcement.” His go-to material, glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) panels can be used for vertical and retaining walls.

Lively pairs To make the feature pop, landscapers can add a variety of plants and complementary additions that really liven up the space. “Plants are so vital to make the feature look natural and make it pop,” Ingrassia says. Ingrassia uses low-growing Ball Harbor juniper, groundcovers like sedums, hostas, fountain grasses and Japanese maples. “There’s something about the red cutleaf maple that’s so appealing,” he says. “The maple

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cover story

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cascades like an umbrella over the feature.” Bowen likes to use Japanese painted ferns, Acorus, dwarf mondo grass and scotch moss around water features. “Plant something behind your first fall, creating the illusion that your stream is just the visible portion of a larger whole,” Bowen suggests. “Use large stone: It is much better to use a few larger boulders than a pile of basketball-sized rocks.” To make the feature seem bigger, teams can surround it with design elements that fit a natural body of water. “River rock can be used to make the pond look larger than it is,” Bowen says. Another option is using bog plants on the edge of the feature, which can give way to ornamental grasses that blur the pond line. Other features that pair well with water elements are patios,

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like a large stone slab that juts out over a pond. “If there is room for a meandering path with a bridge over – or stepping stones through – the stream, great,” Bowen says.

Design concerns When choosing the right spot for a feature, no matter the size, Bowen says to be mindful of the primary viewing points. “Don’t hide a great water feature where you can’t see it from a window,” he says. Ingrassia likes to put the feature in the socializing area. “Let’s bring the waterfall up close so you can hear it,” he says. If there’s a pool, he’ll install the feature between the pool and patio.

Things to avoid A smaller backyard can limit design options. One of the most difficult water features to install

cover story

up to the height you want.” Working in a tight space can also tempt landscapers to make design compromises. For example, a client may ask for a large pond, but the skimmer will take

up a good portion of the available space. “It can be tempting to eliminate that piece of essential filtration,” Bowen says. “You and the client will probably regret it.”

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with a constrained space is a natural looking stream and pond feature, Bowen says. While clients may want the feature to push the limits in their small space, landscapers shouldn’t design a stream that’s too tall. “When you fit a 4-foot drop into a small area, it’s hard to keep all of that water in the liner,” Bowen says. All water features generate some splash, and in a tight area, the crew needs to consider where that splash is going. “Your pond or basin can only be so big, so it limits the amount of splash you can catch,” Bowen says. Another issue is gaining height for falls. “Think about mountains – the higher they are, the wider the base is,” Bowen says. “You generally want the same thing with your falls and stream. It takes space to build

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reader projects

Submerge into Tranquility

Readers share their water feature project photos 32 To t a l L a n d s c a p e C a r e . c om

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reader projects

Scott Cohen, owner of Green Scene Landscaping & Pools, designed this Simi Valley, California, spa and stunning water feature to really shine at night with 500 fiberoptic lights that change color, 450 wine bottles and custom winethemed tiles that Cohen created in his studio. A nearby fire pit, outdoor kitchen and dining area complete this illuminating, awardwinning installation.

rom pools and ponds to stunning fountains, TLC â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s readers know how to create luscious water features. These retreats include gushing waterfalls, koi ponds and complete outdoor rooms focused on the relaxing sounds of water. Landscapers from across the country submitted their project photos for our Water Feature Photo Contest, and here are just a few of our favorites. J U N E 2014

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reader projects

Left: Composed of 75 tons of natural granite boulders set on a steel-reinforced gunite base, the water feature created by Lidyoff Landscape Development served as the focal point of this remodeled backyard. The feature includes a remote control system with variable speed pumps to control water flow. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also an outdoor kitchen, fire pit and 4-foot-tall retaining wall veneered with Bouquet Canyon Stone at this property in Fresno, California.

Above: The Ohio Valley Group designed and built The Great Lakes American Beer Garden as a feature garden for the 2014 Cleveland Great Big Home and Garden Show. This space included three water features: a beer tap handle feature with 33 craft brewery and novelty beer taps, sheeting water feature highlighting the Great Lakes and a simple tap bubbler with a custom tap highlighting the 25th anniversary of their company.

Right: Eden East Landscape constructed a custom boulder waterfall, dolphin waterslide and travertine decking with masonry walls.

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reader projects

Left: Arbor Ridge Waterscape designed and constructed an 80-foot-long mountain stream, which winds through this residential woodland garden in Baltimore, Maryland. A 4,000-pound stone bridge crosses the stream and leads to the front porch of the home. Featuring large fieldstone boulders and salvaged stumps and logs, this stream and garden appear to be centuries old and carved by nature. An Aquascape Pondless Waterfall basin holds 1,600 gallons of water captured from the home’s roof runoff and can be used for irrigation. Two Aquascape pumps circulate 18,000 gallons of water per hour.

Left: Serene Aqua completely redid this backyard to transform the dull space into an entertaining outdoor room that provides a “wow” factor.

To see all of the reader-submitted project photos, visit totallandscapecare.com/ water-features.

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Below: Designed to incorporate a patio fireplace area and fire pit, the water feature ties the two together seamlessly. Premier Landscapes designed the 30-by-15-foot Aquascape pond with Semco weathered limestone and granite boulders. A limestone bridge spans the width of the pond, and at night, the area is lit by LED Kichler lights.

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reader projects

Below: Now home to 17 large koi, the 9,000-gallon water feature started as a small pond that was added to provide growth for the fish. Ponders created this Asian-style feature, which has two Savio skimmers, a bottom drain, side intakes, multiple waterfalls, venturi tubes, G-Tec filter system and two 100-watt UV sterilizers.

Above: To create a tranquil backyard, A. Bonadio & Sons installed a New England natural stone water feature and pond. The waterfall and stream are stocked with koi fish, and the features were created to help reduce the scale of the large boulder left on site by the builder.

Above: Full Service Aquatics installed this multi-tier waterfall to create the illusion of a waterfall that had broken through a stone retaining wall. They achieved this effect by running EPDM liner behind the area before constructing the waterfall. The waterfall is 9 feet high with two tiers and pooling areas at the base of the upper and lower falls. Approximately 8,000 gallons per hour are pumped through the project, which took five days to create.

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reader projects

It’s Your Call. Above: Land Art Design created this suburban oasis in Great Falls, Virginia, with multiple outdoor rooms. Features include a pool with a built-in spa, fire pit, elegant deck and twin-peaked structures that house an outdoor kitchen, lounge, fireplace and luxurious seating.

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Left: To completely make over this backyard, Primarily Landscapes added 40 tons of fill, 20 tons of rocks to adjust the grade and a pond with three water features. These features include a pondless waterfall, upper pond with stream and lower pond and stream. There are also pond lights and “floating” boulder stepping-stones that lead to the fireplace patio.

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Above: With five levels of waterfalls and an 80-foot-long main run, Timm Construction Company’s water feature includes about 150 tons of boulders – some up to 5,000 pounds each. Specialty evergreen trees, shrubs and deciduous plants surround the rushing water. At night, 50 24-volt lights illuminate this Dubuque, Iowa, feature.

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Presented by

Join the Best in the Industry! Boost your businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

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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

38 To t a l L a n d s c a p e C a r e . c om

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(Left) Dustin Hanson, Ryan Kovarik and Brandon Hanson

The Perfect Storm By learning from past experiences, Chicagoland landscaper turns the impossible into reality By Patty Vaughan

ustin Hanson comes from a long line of entrepreneurs. The lineup includes everyone from his mom and dad to his aunts and uncles; so, Hanson says he was destined to run his own business. “I think it was natural that it was a progression that we were going to head in from Day 1,” Hanson says. “It didn’t take me long to realize that I didn’t like working for someone else.” With a strong family history by his side and a growing passion for the landscaping industry, Hanson ventured out on his own and formed Hanson Landscape almost overnight in 2005 in Big Rock, Illinois.

Seeing green After quitting his job, Hanson, followed by five other crewmembers, started Hanson Landscape on

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landscaper of the year finalist

a Friday. By the following Monday, the company was up and running full time, and according to Hanson, they have never missed a day since. “The first five years I grew the company by myself, and it was strictly landscape construction,” Hanson says. “We became what I would consider quite successful in the first five years.” In 2010, Hanson Landscape (hansonlandscape. com) started offering mainHanson Landscape tenance after bringing on takes on challenges with its projects, including partner, vice president and creating a 1,200-squarefoot paver patio with 120 brother, Brandon Hanson. tons of granite boulders “We went from five guys (top) and a lake-front property featuring a to instantly 20 overnight,” 35-foot tall waterfall that Hanson says. “It just blew pushes 20,000 gallons per hour (right). up.” Around that time, Hanson Landscape brought on past client, Ryan Kovarik, as co-owner to its newly launched sister construction company. Kovarik left his job as a commercial builder and approached Hanson about starting a construction company. Together, Hanson, Brandon and Kovarik launched the construction company as partners. Once the construction company started showing signs of success, Hanson offered Kovarik a partnership with Hanson Landscape to keep everything owned by the same people. “One of our landscape customers, who happens to be the owner of several auto dealerships, was getting ready to build two new massive dealerships,” Hanson says. “We were able to secure incredible projects for both companies with those buildings. The construction company was able to design and build the dealerships, with Hanson Landscape following up with landscape design/ build on them, as well.” Since its inception, the landscaping company has consistently grown, and by the first 12 months

40 To t a l L a n d s c a p e C a r e . c om

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of the new partnerships, Hanson and his team had to start hiring management. By the second year, the company grew between 35 and 40 percent with the addition of 10 more employees. To date, the landscaping company consists of 50 crewmembers and offers design/build, construction, maintenance, irrigation, water features, aquatic maintenance, erosion control and snow removal for commercial properties and design/build installs for residential. “In a matter of three years, we went from two trucks and one skid steer to 30 trucks, 19 skid steers, two loaders, three tractors and 50 mowers,” Hanson says.

landscaper of the year finalist

Perfecting the process

Communication is key across all divisions of the company, especially when it comes to the employees. “We have streamlined the way we do things,” Brandon says. “All of our crews have direct GPS-monitored routes, and they know where they are going every day. I think efficiency is one of the most important keys to our success.” By installing a GPS system in all of the company’s vehicles, Hanson can track and regulate the safety of the crewmembers, as well. (Top) Details are important “When we first impleto Hanson, which is why this two-pump waterfall project mented the program, we had every rock laid by hand. found out really quick (Left) This dual waterfall was manmade from a natural how much employees bedrock cliff in a river basin. speed,” Hanson says. “It has been virtually eliminated, which improves safety for our company.” The GPS system has saved the company a tremendous amount of fuel and labor costs. For the past three years, Hanson has explained to his crews and employees that the money lost through wasted fuel and labor comes out of their pockets. “We try to get everyone to understand the business aspect of what we’re creating and where we’re trying to go in the future,” Hanson says.

In the black To Hanson, finances are everything. Every partner in the company spends about half of his time working on finances and dealing with money. “The financials will tell you all day long if we’re productive or not,” Hanson says. If they see an area where they’re lacking, they can adjust what they’re doing and get it back in control. By not borrowing money, being the first one to

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landscaper of the year finalist

By offering a variety of services, including commercial maintenance, Hanson Landscape can complete a variety of projects, like this fall commercial flower planting at one of its jobsites.

pay the bills, being the middleman on bids, under quarter of the price. promising and over delivering, Hanson Landscape “The guys will run them for another five years,” has continued to grow. The company purchased Hanson says. “They pay themselves off in one seathree new trucks, and all of the others were bought son – not four. After that first season, it’s nothing used with cash. but profit-generating equipment. If you use that “By the time you pay for a $40,000 vehicle with practice in and out with everything you do, you a crew, it’s going to take them six years to work that generate way better cash flow.” truck off,” Hanson says. “We buy $12,000 To enter to Top 100 to $15,000 vehicles that are sound. be Landscaper of Nothing is a walk in the park, Hanson Every single one of our vehicles is paid the Year, visit says. However, even after battling the off instantly, but they pay for themtotallandscapecare. ever-changing seasonal weather, new selves within six months. After that com/loy. competitors and a constantly changing six months, those trucks will continue economy, the company is going strong and to produce profit for the next six to seven has high hopes for the future. years.” Eventually, Hanson says he would like to see his Additionally, Hanson Landscape purchases company in the Top 100 in the country. Additionalits entire Exmark mower lineup on a used-basis ly, the company recently purchased a new 30-acre only. Where one company might spend money on facility with the intentions of starting a nursery a new mower, Hanson Landscape will purchase a 2-year-old mower with minimal hours for a and opening another retail establishment.

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5 TIPS TO HANSON’S SUCCESS

Family first. “Who wants to own a business if you can’t enjoy it with your family?” Dustin Hanson says. “We follow that down all the way through our employees. We want everyone to have a solid family foundation first.”

Fundamental finances. “We do everything in our power to not borrow money, and we make sure we can grow at a rate that we can pay for and afford,” Hanson says. “By doing that, it keeps our finances in line, and it keeps our cash flow available.”

Confidence and humility. “We need to be confident, and we need to have pride in what we do,” Hanson says. “At the same time, we need to show we’re humble. We need to remember where we came from, and we need to remember where we started, as well as what prompted us to start a business.”

Building relationships. “We’re key on building relationships with our clients,” Hanson says. “We don’t treat our customers as just customers. We want to know who they are, who their families are and what they enjoy doing with their lives.”

Being responsive. “We are a 24/7 business,” Hanson says. “We take calls at any time. If our client needs us, we’re there regardless of what is going on.”

“It’s a Frankenstein company,” Hanson says. “When you start throwing in all of these other elements and these possibilities of what Hanson Landscape can do because of the sister company that it belongs to, it’s a perfect storm. It gives us an incredible amount of power to pull off impossible tasks.” View more of Hanson Landscape’s project photos at totallandscapecare.com/hanson-landscape.

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Text INFO to 205-289-3796 or visit TLCrequest.com

To hear more of Hanson’s tips to success, visit totallandscapecare.com/hanson-success and watch his video.

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PRODUCTS

COMPANY

Properly Equipped BY BRUCE W. SMITH

Those two towing words can mean the difference between a safe driver and a negligent one.

n 2011, an Ocean County, New Jersey, landscape companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trailer de-coupled from the pickup truck towing it due to a faulty trailer hitch and other safety cables and precautions not being taken by the driver. The trailer then struck a 58-year old woman, resulting in significant injuries. A lawsuit ensued, and the landscaping company had to pay out $2.7

million because of their negligence. Two years earlier, the family of a Colorado man killed by a pickup towing a trailer that lost control and crashed into his vehicle was awarded $2.25 million in damages. The jury sided with the plaintiffs that the trailer was too heavy for the pickup the way it was equipped. More than $1.3 million in

damages have been awarded to a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family, and more lawsuits are pending as a result of a towing accident where that employee was a passenger and the driver lost control and hit an oncoming vehicle head-on. The driver of the oncoming vehicle was also killed. Investigators found the combined weight of the trailer totaled 10,420 pounds, while the maximum towing capacity for the trailer hitch was 6,000 pounds. The maximum towing capacity for the FWCC vehicle itself was only 8,000 pounds.

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ProPickup

These are just three examples picked from dozens during the past few years where companies have been sued – and lost – millions in towing related court cases. In every one of the above instances, the base cause of the accident – and the ensuing multi-million dollar lawsuits – hinged on one basic fact: The vehicles weren’t setup correctly for the trailered loads they were towing.

Towing properly equipped

Properly equipped means changing from a conventional hitch setup (top) to a weight-distributing hitch (bottom) when a trailered weight exceeds a set limit as stated in the vehicle’s owners manual and/or the manufacturer’s tow ratings guide.

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Towing accidents happen every day across the country. Some are minor fender-benders. Others are much more severe. Some, unfortunately, result in death. As a landscaper, or any business owner who has drivers towing trailers, nothing is more important from a liability and safety perspective than making sure every vehicle is “properly equipped.” Failing to do so can (and does) result in consequences most business owners would rather avoid as the examples above, shared by the lawfirm of Walters, Balido & Crain, L.L.P. in Dallas, illustrate. All pickups and SUVs have towing limitations and restrictions, and the vehicle manufacturer sets those tow ratings at the time the vehicle is built. So, how can pulling a trailer with a load thousands of pounds lighter than your pickup truck’s maximum towing capacity be a bad thing?

ProPickup

Two tow ratings Even though you thought your 1/2-ton could tow 10,000 pounds or diesel dually could tow 16,000 pounds, one small detail noted in the owner’s manual was missed: the difference between “weight-carrying” and “weight-distributing” towing limits. Such an oversight can be costly in court. Weight-carrying, or towing in the conventional mode as it’s commonly referred to, means the trailer is hooked to a tow ball or pintle setup attached directly to the hitch mounted on truck’s frame as it comes equipped from the factory.

Pickup manufacturers require the use of a weight-distributing hitch be used on 1/2-ton pickups when trailered loads weigh more than 5,000 pounds. Heavy-duty trucks usually require a WD hitch between 5,000 to 8,000 pounds depending on year/make/model.

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TotalLa nd s ca p eCa r e.com 47

ProPickup

Weight-distributing, however, is when the trailer is attached to a special weight-distributing (load equalizing) hitch with its spring bars and adjusting chains

in use – a setup commonly used when towing travel trailers. The differences between weight-carrying and weightdistributing hitch setups are

5 TRAILER INSPECTION TIPS Trailers, like any other tool – including your tow vehicle – succumb to wear and tear with time. The key to keeping them safe and reliable is spending the time to do a routine walk-around inspection of the most problematic areas at least twice a year – and fixing any issues found before they turn into bigger problems. Here are five areas that need to be checked off as part of your regular trailer preventive maintenance.

Hitch & coupler. Hitch mounts and the trailer ball take a beating. Check to make sure all frame-mounting bolts are tight and there are no visible cracks anywhere on the receiver, shank or tow ball. Check the trailer coupler to ensure the jaws fit tight over the tow ball, and the safety latch is pinned to keep it from accidentally flipping open in transit. Lube wear points as needed. Trailer plug. Light-wiring connections between tow vehicle and trailer are also wear points. Check both receptacle and plug for loose, frayed or broken wires. Repair or replace bad connectors. Clean plug pins and receptacle with spray-on terminal cleaner and coat plug ends with di-electric grease to slow or prevent

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worlds apart when it comes to maximum towing capacity. While weight-carrying limits on the factory hitches for all half-ton pickups is 5,000

corrosion. Check under-trailer wiring, as well.

3 4

Trailer lights. Make sure the trailer turn signal and brake lights work properly. Use a test tool to make the check easy for one person.

Tires. Over- or under-inflated trailer tires wear out more quickly than properly inflated ones and are much more prone to catastrophic failure. For maximum tire life, inflation pressures on both tow vehicle and trailer should be checked and adjusted monthly. Also, check the tread depth and evenness of wear, along with the lug nuts for proper tightness.

Breakaway battery. If your trailer has electric brakes instead of surge brakes, test the battery for the breakaway system to make sure it’s charged and in good condition. Also, make sure the breakaway switch is in good shape.

If you make this an annual routine at the beginning of spring and fall, or take the time to perform the above maintenance routine at the beginning of each new work day, you can rest assured there will seldom be a job cut short due to a trailer malfunction. To see the complete “Top 10” trailer inspection checklist, visit totallandscapecare.com/10-trailerinspection-tips.

ProPickup

pounds, they range between 5,000 and 8,500 pounds for heavy-duty pickups. Change the hitch to a weightdistributing, and half-tons can tow trailers weighing between 9,000 to 11,000 pounds (depending on make/model, of course), while heavy-duty pickups’ weight-distributing ratings can top 18,000 pounds.

disregards having their tow vehicle properly equipped per the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications for trailering is negligent. That is because it is the vehicle operator’s responsibil-

ity to read the operators manual and operate the vehicle in a safe and prudent manner according to the owner’s manual – not based on one’s own observations and deductions.

It’s not your call Think of tow ratings this way: The speed limit is 55 mph. You get caught driving 65. You tell the officer you thought the conditions and truck you are driving is safe at that speed. Does the officer let you go? Probably not. Now think of being in court facing a jury where pain, suffering and maybe death are the result of towing with a pickup not set up per the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. Where is the jury’s vote going? Towing without regard to the properly equipped limitations instantly makes the driver face the “Law of Negligence” charge in the eyes of an astute attorney and opens the door wide for a slam-dunk lawsuit. “A plaintiff who was injured as a result of some negligent conduct on the part of a defendant is entitled to recover compensation for such injury from that defendant,” says Ashley de la Cerda, a partner at WBC, which specializes in such legal issues. Attorneys say a vehicle’s driver – and the company that employs him – who blatantly

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High Output grilles ®

LED Grilles by Rigid Industries are the new way to customize your rig with high output Rigid lights. Not only do these new accessories mount Rigid lights in your grille but they give your vehicle a whole new Rigid look. Visit RigidIndustries.com for more information.

NEW GRILLES FOR CHEVY, FORD®, GMC®, POLARIS® AND TOYOTA®

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Tota lLa nd s ca p eCa r e.com 49

“Attending GIE+EXPO and HNA was the best money I ever spent!” . BRAD SCHAFFER Owner, Thrive Louisiana, New Orleans, Louisiana

FREE CONCERTS!

Oct. 23-24, 2014 Louisville, Kentucky Kentucky Exposition Center

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OLIVIA HENKEN

Finalist on “the voice”

roundup

Hardscape Materials BY LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE

Impress customers with these pavers, retaining walls and planks. Hardwood or Concrete? Give clients and their guests a unique patio area with Techo-Bloc’s Borealis wood plank concrete slab. Borealis is offered in Sauvignon Oak and Hazelnut Brandy – which are both light, honey-colored woods – and the rich-colored Smoke Pine. The deeper color can also add drama or break up the honey tones through creative bandings and designs. techo-bloc.com

Bluestone Blend Cambridge Pavers’ Ledgestone with ArmorTec three-piece design kit paving stones compliment the natural-looking rock face of the Ledgestone Wall. The wallstones are one size and can be used in a variety of single-sided applications including freestanding and retaining walls, steps and edging. The stones are 4 inches high by 8 inches deep by 12 inches long. cambridgepavers.com

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roundup

Recycled Materials Create patios, walkways, courtyards and other hardscape projects with CalStar Products’ 4-by-8inch Holland pavers. The pavers are 30-percent recycled content, instead of clay or Portland cement, and are available in solid and range colors with a smooth or tumbled finish. The company also offers 12-by-12-inch pavers and 5-by-10-inch permeable pavers made with the same low-carbon, low-energy process. calstarproducts.com

Large-Scale Paver With multiple-surface textures, Red River Hardscapes’ Cambria paver is 2 3/8 inches thick and is available in four sizes: 4-by-4, 8-by-8, 8-by-12 and 12-by-12 inches. All four sizes come mixed on a pallet and can be tumbled by special order. The Cambria paver meets ASTM standards for interlocking concrete pavers and is manufactured in Driftwood and Mocha. redriverproducts.com

Modular Design Keystone Retaining Wall Systems developed a complete line of outdoor living elements using the Keystone Country Manor and Stonegate Country Manor wall systems. Landscapers can offer clients everything from designs for outdoor fireplaces, kitchens and water features to the smaller-scale elements of round/square fire pits and columns with a light, mailbox and even planter add-ons. Each element is built onsite. keystonewalls.com

Combo Cobble Intended for patios, walkways and driveways, CityCobble from Pine Hall Brick is available in full range. The class clay brick pavers come in two sizes: 5 1/3-inch square and 5 1/3-by-8-inch rectangle. Combining the two in an “L” pattern or modified herringbone gives the look of cobblestones. CityCobble is durable enough for vehicles. pinehallbrick.com

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roundup

Wood Work Silver Creek Stoneworks’ Woodstone collection has the look of weathered white pine with soft edges, deep splits and detailed grain on five sides. It’s available in ash, a blend of brown and dark gray and three sizes: 9 3/4 inches wide by 15 1/2-, 23 3/8- or 35-inch lengths. Multiple mold faces create a random look for patios and pathways. silvercreeksw.com

Fire It Up Customized using EP Henry’s cast veneer stone, the ISO’ven is a functioning pizza oven that fires to 700 degrees. It can be used to cook personal pizzas, chicken, vegetables, steak, bread and more. ephenry.com.

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Laser Measured

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™

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Cheer-Worthy Hardscape

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LANDSCAPING: Proscape Inc., Northport, Alabama proscapeonline.com

Alabama landscaper creates ultimate outdoor space for game enjoyment BY LAUREN HEARTSILL DOWDLE

n the South – and especially in Tuscaloosa, Alabama – football is more than a sport: It’s a lifestyle. So to give these homeowners a relaxing spot where they could relax and eat before and after the big game with family and friends, Proscape constructed a complete outdoor living area. Austin Marcum, owner of Proscape, and his team installed an eating area, fire pit and built-in grill. “Since the client wanted an open feel, it was decided that a pergola would best fit that need,” Marcum says. To keep the space comfortable and To have y our inviting, the team added dimmable project fe atured, email hig lighting and outdoor fans. Proscape h-resolutio n photos, a also built a natural stone retaindescriptio n of the pro ject & the ing wall that matched the other name of y o ur business hardscape elements to meet grade to lheartsi ll.rrpub requirements. Finishing touches @gmail.c om. included a custom stone water feature and landscaping. See more project photos at totallandscapecare.com/cheerworthy-hardscape.

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In case of downtime.

NeverStop™ Loaner Guarantee. Standard on our new Commercial Mowers.

When you purchase any new John Deere ZTrak™, QuikTrak™, or Walk-behind mower, you get something more than just a phenomenal mowing machine. You also get the peace of mind that comes with our NeverStop™ Loaner Guarantee, standard with every new John Deere commercial mower. In the unlikely occurrence that your mower should need servicing under warranty, you’ll receive a free loaner from your John Deere dealer* if it takes 24 hours or longer. So say goodbye to downtime. With NeverStop, you don’t have to stop.

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** Offers available from March 04, 2014 through July 26, 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.

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