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April 2015
CONTENTS
Excellence In Landscape Awards Project
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FOCUS: iLandscape Show Report
iLandscape 2015 10 Relive the fun, the events, the experience
Awards Night 2015 20 Were ILCA srars come out to shine Taking a Walk with Roy Diblik 24 Roy leads a guided tour of the iLandscape exhibits
Perennials in Focus 30 Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’
The Italian Way 32 A warm and fuzzy review with industry patriarchs
Expande Tus Conocimientos 38 Photos from the annual Hispanic Seminar
Entrepreneurial DNA 40 How to tell the rainmakers from the profit suckers
9 Habits to Avoid at Work in 2015 Simple tips bring big rewards
Member Profile 54 Landscape Industry Resources
Plant All-Stars 62 Malus ‘Royal Raindrops’
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On the cover... Grant & Power Landscaping, Inc. received an Excellence in Landscape award for this Residential Landscape Construction project. The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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CONTENTS
DEPARTMENTS ILCA Calendar From Where I Stand President’s Message New Members Classified Ads Advertisers Index Photo Credits ILCA Awards Program Rick Reualnd Ryan Doty
Calendar
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AUGUST
1, 8-9 10-28, 32.35, 38-39, 42-43 62
The official publication of the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association (ILCA), The Landscape Contractor is dedicated to educating, advising and informing members of this industry and furthering the goals of the Association. The Landscape Contractor carries news and features relating to landscape contracting, maintenance, design and allied interests. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material and reserves the right to edit any article or advertisement submitted for publication. Publication reserves right to refuse advertising not in keeping with goals of Association. WWW.ilca.net Volume 56, Number 4. The Landscape Contractor (ISSN # 0194-7257, USPS # 476-490) is published monthly for $75.00 per year by the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association, 2625 Butterfield Road, Ste. 104S, Oak Brook, IL 60523. Periodicals postage paid at Oak Brook, IL and additional mailing offices. Printed in USA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Landscape Contractor, 2625 Butterfield Road, Ste 104S, Oak Brook, IL 60523. DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES: Association Publishing Partners, Inc., Ph. (630) 637-8632 Fax (630) 637-8629 email: rmgi@comcast.net CLASSIFIED ADS, CIRCULATION AND SUBSCRIPTION: ILCA (630) 472-2851 Fax (630) 472-3150 PUBLISHER/EDITORIAL OFFICE: Rick Reuland, rmgi@comcast.net 6S252 Cornwall Rd, Naperville, IL 60540 Ph. (630)637-8632 PRODUCT DISCLAIMER: The Illinois Landscape Contractors Association, its Board of Directors, the Magazine Committee, ILCA Staff, The Landscape Contractor and its staff, neither endorse any products nor attest to the validity of any statements made about products mentioned in this, past or subsequent issues of this publication.
ILCA Staff
Magazine Staff
Executive Director Scott Grams (630) 472-2851 sgrams@ilca.net
Rick Reuland Publisher/Advertising Sales (630) 637-8632 rmgi@comcast.net
Education Manager Julie Nicoll jnicoll@ilca.net Membership & Events Manager Terre Houte thoute@ilca.net Administrative Assistant Alycia O’Connor aoconnor@ilca.net ILCA 2625 Butterfield Road Ste. 104S Oak Brook, IL 60523 (630) 472-2851 • Fax (630) 472-3150 www.ilca.net
Cantigny Park Wheaton, IL
Debbie Rauen Advertising Sales (817-501-2403) debbie.landscapecontractor@ yahoo.com
Contact Terre Houte thoute@ilca.net or visit ilca.net —
v Becke Davis Senior Writer treethyme@aol.com Patrice Peltier Feature Writer patpeltier@charter.net Meta Levin Feature Writer meta.levin@comcast.net Panel Chairs Jim Fizzell jjfizz@aol.com Greg Pierceall pierceal@purdue.edu
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From Where I Stand... A few months before iLandscape, I was talk-
ing to a member about planning for the 2015 event. He asked how things were going and I explained about the hundreds of little details that go into the show. After a while he chuckled and said, “but c’mon, it has to be easier than last year.” I thought about this for a second. I responded, “It is certainly less terrifying. However, we now know what goes into a good tradeshow. Every year we have to raise the bar and make it better and better. Making the show easy only makes the show worse.” Anyone involved in the planning of iLandscape would agree. iLandscape is the result of staff, five committees, and close to 100 volunteers working together. iLandscape is an event for thousands built on the backs of hundreds. All of those little contributions form the mosaic of one, three-day event with no second chances. Planning an event like iLandscape is like planning a Broadway Show. There are no retakes. No one yells cut, puts people back into position, and tries again. All we can do is plan, practice, rehearse, and then adjust on the fly the second something goes awry. And something always goes awry. Tradeshows are not for the feint of heart. They are not for control freaks. They are not for Type As. They are for people who can work as a team, pick each other up, and will never be satisfied with the status quo. After iLandscape, we received dozens, if not over 100 emails and phone calls from attendees and exhibitors thanking us for the effort. Of course, iLandscape still has issues to work out - parking, snow, lines at the concession stand, etc. Yet, no one questioned the vibe, feel, passion, and energy that went into the 2015 show. No one implied ILCA got lazy and phoned-in iLandscape’s sophomore year. Out of all the positive comments we received, one in particular stands out in my mind. It was from ILCA Past President Kenny Gallt. He wrote, “With iLandscape you have 50 plus members working together to put on all the aspects of the show. To see them all with iLandscape jackets, working the floor to see the results of their efforts. This is what the Association is all about. That is the greatest thing I see about the new show.” Kenny didn’t compliment us on the education or keynotes or entertainment. He understood what iLandscape was all about. iLandscape is about putting ILCA’s entire methodology to its greatest test. It is about asking our volunteers, working for very little more than a thank-yous and the occasional bar tab, to contribute to one of the largest green industry events in the Midwest. Some trade associations are run by staff with little input from the members. Some are run by a strong Board who
handles all the functions of the association. Others, and I find the most successful, decentralize decision making and place responsibility back on the volunteer members and committees. This bottom-up approach allows ILCA to have 16 standing committees, two dozen educational events, a political arm, and 64-page, monthly magazine. It does all of this with a full time staff of four. That is unheard of in most associations. The best part is that no one deserves all the credit nor takes all the credit. The Board understands the less time they need to micromanage programs and committees, the more time they can spend on strategy, relationship building, and identifying new programs and initiatives. The staff, not having to work on every detail of a program, can handle more programs and events. Finally the committees, not having to handle the minutiae of event planning, can evolve their programs and work on content, not execution. Being on a committee or board is not about power. It is a humbling exercise in servitude. It is watching so many talented people come together for a common goal. They leave their alliances, professional beefs, and muddy boots at the door. The astounding thing about ILCA is that many of the committee members are owners and competitors. These are men and women unaccustomed to not having the final say on all matters. In their day jobs, the buck stops at their desk. In a committee room, the table is round and they humbly come to understand, “crap, maybe I’m not always right.” In addition, these are companies who compete annually against each other for thousands of dollars of landscape work or product sales. A landscape contractor can lose a job to a company and six hours later, sit next to that same company in an ILCA committee meeting. I’m proud to report I am going on seven years without a fistfight. Movies have credits. Tradeshows don’t. That is the point of this column. To recognize the hard work that so many different ILCA members put into the show. Past President Gallt had a keen eye to see the bodies scurrying about iLandscape carrying papers, talking into walkie-talkies, pushing handcarts, and passing out raffle tickets. These volunteers not only make iLandscape happen but are the key to why ILCA exists and has been successful for five decades. The following five ILCA committees deserve special recognition for their work on iLandscape:
The Cast and Crew
• The Latino Relations Committee: The 2014 Committee of the Year had one simple task, find a way to get Hispanics, with very little awareness of ILCA, iLandscape, or a larger professional community to walk in the door. Last year, Hispanic attendance was so sparse, one of the Spanish-language sessions had to be conducted in English because there were no Hispanics in the room. This year, they had a session with over 75 people.
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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From Where I Stand... The Latino Relations Committee forged a relationship with La Ley to run radio ads for two weeks. The Committee organized classes and a walkabout of the show floor. Next year, we will be increasing our footprint in the Latino Community and will create a more welcoming environment when they arrive. • The Membership Committee: Like any vendor, the Membership Committee salivates at the thought of iLandscape. This is their biggest recruiting event of the year. As with any other vendor, they know they only have 19 hours to get new members to sign on the dotted line. The ILCA booth is half vendor space and half information desk. In between promoting ILCA and our events, the Committee must answer a barrage of questions ranging from the benefits of bio-char to, “Where’s the bathroom?” My favorite aspect: after each new member, the Committee clangs their trusty cowbell. To them, there is no sweeter sound. • The Education Committee: The Education Committee has no offseason. Many ILCA committees take the landscape season off. The Education Committee is not afforded that luxury. Immediately after iLandscape 2014, the committee got to work analyzing over 1,000 evaluation forms. In order to have the educational program locked down by September 1st, the committee meets a few weeks after the show and doesn’t let up. This year, the committee decided to move forward on subjects that five years would be considered taboo. Medicinal marijuana and hops cultivation led off the docket. More than 20% of all attendees signed up for education classes. Ten courses had CEs for Landscape Architects. Rooms saw crowds of over 500 when the previous year’s record was 300. • The Awards Committee: When iLandscape was launched, one of the main attractions that would be combined with the show would be ILCA’s Excellence in Landscape Awards Night. This came with risk. Awards Night had always been a successful standalone event for ILCA. Now, it was being combined with a fledgling trade show. The first year, ILCA saw its largest crowd in over a decade. This year, the Awards Committee moved their event from the tradeshow floor to a
ballroom to add an element of intimacy. The event sold out and had a waiting list. The new space set the right tone and Awards Night once again became an evening of not only camaraderie, but of honor and respect. The Committee blasted past their sponsorship goals and continues to organize a night that not only recognizes ILCA’s best, but also symbolizes ILCA’s community of competitors. • The Experience Committee: Talk about pressure. Follow-up a strong rookie season with an even stronger sophomore year. For a committee who works inside a pressure cooker, they sure seem to have a lot of fun. The Experience Committee is always daring themselves to be different. This year, the Committee concentrated on creating a show floor that would inspire innovation and creativity. The music, artists, soft seating areas, interiorscaping and lighting turned 100,000 square feet of concrete into the village square. Peddlers hawk their wares, artists paint, musicians strum, and great minds engage in conversation and fellowship. It was an ancient concept with a postmodern feel. The Experience Committee create and executes on a vision. There are no triedand-true tradeshow models. That is the problem, when you aim for tried-and-true, you get old, stale, and disposable. They must fight the urge to not only be complacent, but also to shred the very concepts that work. Their hard work paid off as the show grew in attendance and exhibitors. All ILCA members owe a debt of gratitude to these committees and volunteers. Next year, when one runs past you at iLandscape, or any other function, stop and thank them. Those words matter more than you will ever know. All I ask is that you don’t keep them long. They have carts to push, papers to pass, shows to build, experiences to create, and an industry to serve.
Scott Grams March 23, 2015
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
President’s Message The 2015 iLandscape President
Kevin Vancina Vancina Landscaping, Inc. (815) 726-2300 kvancina@sbcglobal.net
Vice-President
Rusty Maulding Nature’s View (815) 592-7582 rusty@naturesview.info
Secretary-Treasurer
Mike Schmechtig Schmechtig Landscape Company (847) 566-1233 mschmechtig@schmechtiglandscapes.com
Immediate Past President Charlie Keppel The Care of Trees (847) 382-4120 ckeppel@thecareoftrees.com
Directors Mark Breier National Seed Co. (630) 963-8787 mark.breier@natseed.com Lisa Fiore Fiore Nursery and Landscape Supply (847) 913-1414 lisa@cjfiore.com Jose Garcia Natural Creations Landscaping, Inc. (815) 724-0991 info@naturalcreationslandscaping.com Lisa Fiore Kositzki Don Fiore Company, Inc. (847) 234-0020 lfiore@donfiore.com Dean MacMorris Night Light, Inc. (630) 627-1111 dean@nightlightinc.net Tom Lupfer Lupfer Landscaping (708) 352-2765 tom@lupferlandscaping.com Maureen Scheitz Acres Group (847) 526-4554 maureen.scheitz@acresgroup.com Donna Vignocchi Zych ILT Vignocchi, Inc. (847) 487-5200 dvignocchi@iltvignocchi.com
www.ilca.net
Show has come to a close and as President I tried to involve myself in as much of it as possible. The experience began on the Tuesday morning before the show opened. When I arrived, the move in was well under way. Large equipment was in the process of being ushered in, booth spaces were being set up, and there was a steady flow of traffic on the show floor as everyone jockeyed for position. There was definitely an air of excitement in the building. The iLandscape Show Experience Committee and ILCA staff looked and worked like a legion of superheroes in their black iLandscape vests and jackets, and dealt with problems quickly and efficiently. As setup day came to a close, endless rolls of carpeting were being installed on the aisles as vacuum cleaners nipped at the heels of the installers. Finally, iLandscape 2015 was ready to open. When Wednesday morning arrived, the concourse of the exhibit hall was packed with attendees eager to sit in on the first of many educational seminars. A special thank you goes out to our Education Committee for their creation of such a well-rounded series. Programs captured the interest of all types of landscape professionals, and iLandscape has become a one stop shop for CEU’s for architects, arborists and CLT’s alike. When the tradeshow opened later that morning, attendees flooded the show floor, much to the delight of the exhibitors. As the day continued, the impending snow forecast took a bit of attention away from the show. It just wouldn’t be iLandscape without snow in the forecast on at least one day. Nothing can impact show attendance quite like one of Mother Nature’s little white tricks. Despite the snowy setback, the education rooms were packed and tradeshow attendance was considerable. As for me, the day had its own set of non-show related challenges. When my family finally arrived that afternoon to join me for Awards Night (after numerous phone calls dealing with a sudden goldfish crisis) it was discovered that my wife’s dress for the evening did not make it into the car. This proved to be quite a test of my diplomatic skills, as I tried to negotiate with my wife and daughter as they argued as to whose fault it was that the dress did not make it into the car. Even greater was convincing my wife that what she was already wearing was perfectly fine, since there was not enough time to go home or even go shopping. Eventually the cloud of doom passed, and together we attended a wonderful Awards Night. It was definitely a special evening and I was happy to have them by my side. I had the privilege of presenting the Distinguished Service Award to Laurie Dammgard and Paul Guzzetta from Kaneville Tree Farm, and the Man of the Year Award to Peter Orum of the Midwest family of companies. These are special people with a rich history in our association and industry, and it was my sincere honor to be the one to present their well-deserved awards. On Friday the tradeshow opened with the crowd eager to listen to our keynote speaker of the day, Rocky Wirtz. Apparently he was eager too, since he showed up two hours early and spent time talking with attendees, taking pictures and sharing his Blackhawks Championship ring with everyone. Rocky entertained the crowd with his stories of team building and the building of relationships. He gladly answered questions from the crowd, and spent a good share of his time meeting with them after his presentation. As the show came to a close, exhibitors were anxious to break free of three long days in their booths; everyone was ready to hit the road. The whole scene made me think of the “Roadie Song” by Jackson Browne. As if setup was not impressive enough, it paled in comparison to the speed and efficiency of breakdown. Within a couple of hours the show area was virtually cleared out; only the memory remained. A great time was had by all, and the ILCA Board, staff, Experience and Education Committees are already making plans to make next year’s show even better!
Kevin Vancina, CLT ILCA President The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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C. B. Conlin Landscapes, Inc. • Naperville The Private Residence
The existing landscape
ished with a separate granite top for barstool seating. A wooden was original to overhead pergola and lattice wall offers shade, privacy, and space the home. The rear yard is undersized and is adjacent to several definition. The main dining space is directly adjacent of the island neighbors and the neighborhood park. The functional expectafor functionality and close proximity to main door. tions of the client were cooking, dining, and relaxation in a The primary lounge offers a fireplace that mirrors the interior private setting. The design intent was to create programmed living room. It is located to be seen from inside and to increase exterior rooms that provide a seamless indoor to outdoor transiprivacy from the neighboring lot. An overhead pergola structure tion. The design integrates three separate patios with non-formal provides filtered shade, and further defines the space. The viewstepper paths to achieve the functions of cooking/dining, lounging garden provided a water pot/annual planter feature. ing/relaxation, and privacy. The creative use of natural stone, wooden structures, and lush Unifying elements of wood, pavers, and natural stone were landscaping helped create individual rooms of inviting spaces introduced to all spaces to provide a feeling of cohesion. The compatible with the homeowners’ active lifestyles and privacy outdoor kitchen is positioned to allow for interaction between needs. cook and guests. The external wall of the island is raised and finThe Landscape Contractor 9 April 2015
It Happened at iLandscape
By Rick Reuland
The second edition
of iLandscape posed a simple question to the ILCA Experience Committee — “How do we improve upon last year’s innaugural success?” No small task to turn up the competitive heat in a trade show market frought with competition and ambivalence. To their credit, the Committee redoubled its effort to confirm what they thought had worked and to learn what further improvements needed to be done. What 2015 attendees found was an event that was quite similar, but certainly not the same. And that, will likely be the continuous thread of “event DNA” that runs through each successive year of iLandscape. These are not people that are willing to stand on their accomplishments and simply try to repeat the same success year-afteryear. By the numbers iLandscape 2015 was bigger and more impressive in every category used to judge event success. A common buzz-word you will hear amongst committee members is “controlled growth.” They aim for steady growth performance, rather than a meteoric rise. And that makes sense given the ultimate fate of most meteors. Back to the numbers. This year’s event can boast, more attentees, more trade show booth space, more total exhibitors, more education attendees, and more and more varied entertainment attractions throughout the day. Over the next 20 pages there will be dozens of photos chronicaling each of the varied events that made up iLandscape. Don’t be surprised if you see yourself, or surely someone you know. The roving camera sees all, but mostly has an eye for fun people and smiling faces. In that regard, iLandscape was second to none.
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
2015 Enterprise
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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It Happened at iLandscape
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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It Happened at iLandscape
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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It Happened at iLandscape
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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It Happened at iLandscape
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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It Happened at iLandscape
Awards
Peter Orum, Founder of the Midwest Companies honored as the ILCA Man of the Year.
Scott Grams acted as the event’s jovial MC.
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
Night 2015
President Kevin Vancina presents the Distinguished Service Award to Laurie Damgaard and Paul Guzzetta of Kaneville Tree Farms
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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It Happened at iLandscape
Awards Judges’ Award
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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It Happened at iLandscape
Taking A Walk by Patice Peltier
Spend five minutes
with plantsman, consultant, author and Know Maintenance guru Roy Diblik and you’ll be struck by this: the man’s appreciation for plants is deeply rooted. Those who wandered the iLandscape show floor with Diblik discovered he views plants as unique individuals, as deserving of respect for their special blend of characteristics as you or I. Need proof? Here are some comments made by the co-owner of Northwind Perennial Farm. “Look around this group,” he encouraged participants. “We aren’t dressed alike. We don’t sound alike. We’re individuals—and so are plants. Our failure to recognize the individuality of each living thing is messing up our earth. It’s an arrogance we can’t afford.” “Plants like to live in communities. They like intimacy,” he explains. “Imagine being placed four feet from others—surrounded by a sea of wood—and told you’ll never touch.” “Plants are patiently waiting for us to understand what they can do for us.” An advocate of planting with 4.5” plugs, Diblik describes this smaller plant material as being like a three-year-old child. We don’t expect a toddler to function as independently as an 18-year-old or an adult. The same is true of plants before they’re established. Plants need babying (in the form of weeding and watering) during their first few years. “Once they’re established, they want us to go away and leave them, revisiting to care for them with knowledge and patience, contributing to their ongoing health and beauty. That’s shared-community living,” Diblik asserts.
. . .. .
Visiting Agrecol Native Nursery
“Who can tell me about Carex sprengelii,” Diblik asked, holding up a plug. “Who does it live with? Where does it live happily? What’s its form and structure? What kind of soil does it like? How much moisture? How much light?” When someone in the audience suggested those were a lot of questions to answer, Diblik responded that you have to know the answers to these questions before selecting plants. “You can’t just put this in the ground and run for the truck,” he said. Diblik uses C. sprengelii as an accent plant. He appreciates that it’s forgiving about soil conditions, and it has beautiful, arching flowers. “In June, Carex sprengelii will do anything it can to let you down,” he warns. After the plant flowers, the foliage flattens. “It looks like someone slept in it,” Diblik said. By July, the plant looks good again, but using too many in a planting can create a messy look for part of the season, according to
As he toured the trade show floor, Diblik shared stories about the expertise and generosity of people in the industry. He talked about new products and materials. Most of all, he talked about plants. Here’s some of what he had to say.
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
with Roy Diblik Diblik. Fox sedge (C. vulpinoidea) is another plant Diblik highlighted at the Agrecol booth. It’s durable, healthy and easy to grow, according to Diblik. In fact, the plant is so easy to grow that it is one of the only carexes found in seed mixes. That can mean it will push everything else out when used as a garden plant Diblik says. He advises using it judiciously. “You can’t just fall in love with it,” he said. “The Carex vulopinoidea can be placed in a planting in small amounts when the rest of the planting is mature in three to five years,” he adds. “Then it will be less likely to out compete the mature plants.”
Visiting Fiore Nursery & Landscape Supply
“Fiore is a name that’s a Chicago legend,” Diblik said. “It’s a name that makes you think of sustainability.” Diblik praised the nursery not only for its longevity and its emphasis on healthy, quality plants, but also for creating a nursery in the City of Chicago. Having access to plant material right in the city helps urban landscape contractors operate in more sustainable ways, he said.
Visiting Cardno Native Plant Nursery
“This is not a Home Depot plant,” Diblik said, holding up a Carex comosa. At an education session earlier in the day, Diblik discussed his plant selection for a retention area at Cantigny. There, he paired C. comosa with Calamagrostis canadensis. “Comosa creates a heavy layer in wet areas,” he said. “It forms a 30”-wide clump, and then you have the soft clouds of the Calamagrostis floating above it, and they’re both happy. They both know how to run into each other, and how to stop.” One key to creating happy plant pairings is to understand which plant will dominate under what conditions and to adjust the proportions of the plants accordingly, he said. Cardno’s Jason Fritz’s discussion of the company’s range of products, including seed mixes, prompted Diblik to talk about his philosophy of seeding. Citing the work of Tom Vanderpoel, Diblik said establishing a healthy, captivating and diverse prai-
rie requires several years of continuous seeding. Vanderpoel advocates starting with a native seed mix that will outcompete the existing non-native vegetation. Once these plants get a foot hold, they welcome the next seeding of additional native species, according to Diblik. “Each new seeding is welcomed by the previously established plants. We have to encourage clients to look forward to, appreciate and get involved in the continued addition of diversity through ongoing seeding,” Diblik says. “If we continue to begin with the aggressive natives — Andropogon, Sorghastrum, Asters, Ratibida, Solidagos — many plants will not have the opportunity to develop within that assertive community.” (continued on page 26)
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It Happened at iLandscape
(continued from page 25)
Visiting Midwest Groundcovers
“These groundcovers have had a great run,” Diblik said gesturing towards the flats of pachysandra, vinca and euonymous in the Midwest Groundcovers booth. Admitting that he still uses some of the traditional groundcovers, he called participants’ attention to displays of native plants at the booth. “Here are plants we haven’t found enough horticultural ways to use yet,” he said. One plant Diblik highlighted was Carex pensylvanica. “Don’t plant it in monoculture. Start combining it with other plants,” he encouraged. “Carex flacca is a European plant, but it can live with Carex pensylvanica and together they’ll keep the weeds out. “Then, you can add Carex grisea for its darker, wider foliage. And plant layer upon layer of bulbs. You can add pulmonarias, blue hostas or mayapples,” he continued. “The reason to do this is to create a healthy environment. When you plant a sedge community, the living and dying of all those roots will improve
the health of the soil.” Outside Sales Manager Nikki Melin brought Diblik a parsley plant from a display of edible plants in the booth. “There’s no reason you can’t plant parsley and Carex pensylvanica together — or pair it with Sporobolus. Make up your own combinations,” he said. Diblik told participants that Christy Webber Landscapes is exploring creating “vegetable meadows” in permaculture plantings in empty lots on 16th Street in Chicago. “Don’t let people put you in a box,” Diblik said. “Consider what’s maintainable.” Before leaving Midwest Groundcovers, Diblik also philosophized about the impact Peter Orum and his family have had on the green industry. He recalled a terrible drought in 1988 when Diblik was getting established at Natural Gardens. High temperatures and lack of rainfall were threatening the young nursery. Orum sent over equipment to help pump the pond on the property to irrigate the plants. No one had asked for his help or even mentioned their concerns. “Peter just knew we needed help, and he provided it,” Diblik says. “That’s how he is.”
Visiting Midwest Trading
At Midwest Trading, Dave Boyce told participants about the wide range of mulches and soil mixes the company creates and the technology that allows scanning of entire truckloads of materials. The big buzz, however, came when Boyce mentioned a new product, biochar. Midwest Trading biochar expert Ryan Wagner was summoned to explain the product further. A soil amendment that’s similar to charcoal, biochar helps hold and slowly release nutrients and water into the soil. “Bartlett Tree has had good success using it with street trees,” Wagner reported. He explained that more research needs to be done on how to produce the most effective biochar, on what proportion to use and what plants benefit most from it. Still, Wagner said, the soil amendment is promising, and Midwest Trading is making it available to customers.
Visiting Intrinsic Perennial Garden
“I like to stop by Brent’s to see the plants that he finds,” Diblik said as he introduced participants to Brent Horvath, owner of Intrinsic Perennial Garden. Whether he’s driving down the road or looking at seedlings in his nursery, Horvath is intrigued by finding new plants, particularly sedums and geums, Diblik explained. Diblik stressed the importance of knowing the characteristics of the parent plant(s). “Echinacea pallida will outlive you and 26
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
your family, but Echinacea purpurea has a different survival strategy. It lives two to eight years, which is why it reseeds so freely,” Diblik explained. Understanding these characteristics helps a person know how the offspring are likely to behave in the landscape. “That’s the kind of information you can get with Brent’s plants — who they live with and how they grow,” Diblik said. “If you don’t know that, your clients will invest $16-18 for a fashion plant and wonder why it dies. It doesn’t have the genetics to know how to live where we’re asking it to live.”
Diblik praised a later introduction, Pixie Meadowbrite™, for its long bloom time and durability in clay soils. Again, he stressed how knowing a plant’s parentage helps you determine where to grow it. For instance, one of Pixie Meadowbrite’s parents is Echinacea tennesseensis. “If you want to kill tennesseensis, mulch it and water it,” Diblik said. The two also discussed the baptisias that have been introduced through Chicagoland Grows, some of them products of Ault’s breeding efforts. “I love the legs on ‘Midnight,” Ault confessed. “You can bring sporobolus up tight to the base for a great planting. Baptisia leucantha has beautiful legs, too. You could plant it growing through Geranium sanguineum.” Chicagoland Grows is introducing two new phlox this year as well as a tradescantia, according to Ault. “I have about 25 more plants I hope to introduce before I retire in seven or eight years,” Ault said. “Chicagoland Grows is important to all of us because it’s Chicago,” Diblik said. “We need this group.”
Visiting Chicagoland Grows®
The final stop was Chicagoland Grows®, a regional plant selection and introduction program jointly sponsored by the Chicago Botanic Garden, The Morton Arboretum and the Ornamental Grower’s Association of Northern Illinois. Dr. Jim Ault, who is manager of Chicagoland Grows and director of ornamental plant research at Chicago Botanic Garden, talked about his work creating hybrids, primarily of native plants. He sheepishly admitted to having started the orange coneflower craze with his introductions of Orange Meadowbrite™ and Mango Meadowbrite™. “Orange Meadowbrite looks like orange monarchs. It’s beautiful the way it blends with other plants,” Diblik said, praising Ault for introducing plants that “have garden value — not just value on the bench. We’ve got plenty of people selling fashion plants.”
With that, Roy’s wandering — and philosophizing — through iLandscape was through…at least for the moment.
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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It Happened at iLandscape
Headliners
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
2016 IN THE FIELD DESIGN TOUR
In the Field Design Tour CALL FOR ENTRIES
Deadline for Submissions: July 1, 2015 Tour Date: July 14, 2016
SUBMIT A SITE FOR ILCA’S 2016 DESIGN TOUR
REMEMBER
In the Field Design Tour
In the Field 2016 is an all-‐day learning field trip that will concentrate on six successfully executed sites that offer important educational viewpoints in design, engineering, construction and maintenance.
At each of the six tour stops, designers will be on hand to discuss various features of the site. These sites have been handpicked from dozens of projects. They will provide an injection of inspiration and a new perspective on the design process.
Site should be able to handle an all day tour with as many as 100 participants on the site at one time (or two groups of 50). Submitting company should be available to prepare the site for show the day before the tour. Project designer and contractors involved should be available to present both the educational and technical aspects relevant to the site. If the site is chosen, the participating firm will be asked to prepare a short description that will be part of the printed program along with photos of the site.
Deadline for submissions is July 1, 2015
Submission Process Electronic submission is the only format that will be accepted.
Selection Criteria Site should be in a 5 mile radius surrounding Hinsdale, IL. This includes: Burr Ridge, Countryside, Darien, Hinsdale, La Grange, Oak Brook, Westchester, Western Springs, and Westmont.
Submit up to five digital photos of the project.
Site should be pre-‐approved by the property owner prior to submittal.
Photo submissions and a landscape plan (if available) can be done via the Dropbox site.
Email the submission form to information@ilca.net. The submission form is available on the ILCA website ilca.net/design/design_tour.aspx.
In the Field has been conducted in 2010 and 2014. Each tour has been sold out and hosted more than 100 landscape industry professionals.
Submission does not guarantee acceptance.
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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Perennials in
f cus
S N A P S H O T S
Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’ | Jack Frost Siberian Bugloss Flower description / bloom time Jack Frost has China-blue sprays of flowers in April and May for 3 to 4 weeks with no repeat flowering later in the season. However, flowers are not Jack Frost’s main feature – flowers only received a ‘good’ rating over the evaluation period.
Notes from growers / retailers Foliage seems to be very consistent and nicer than other variegated Brunnera macrophylla cultivars. As recommended for garden planting, Jack Frost requires excellent drainage to avoid root diseases. By mid-June the plant develops nice foliage, is moderately rooted and in bloom. Jack Frost can be potted bare root in mid-April and grown outdoors under 30% shade cloth. One grower generally sells about 75% and over winters the remaining 25% under micro foam and white plastic right on the ground. Another grower recommended growing plants in a ‘squat pot’ (wider than tall). Brunnera is also salt-sensitive so growers should periodically drench soils to remove excess salt. Best combinations Some suggested companion plants might be Athyrium filix-femina ‘Frizelliae’, Carex ‘Ice Dance’, and Impatiens ‘Lipstick’.
Foliage interest – color / texture Medium green, heart-shaped leaves are heavily marbled in silver-white. The variegated foliage boldly stands out as a ‘color’ throughout the growing season in the shaded garden. Even in a drought year [2005] foliage did not have browned edges.
Parting “SHOT” — the overall evaluation results were Excellent Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’ is an easy-care perennial for brightening a darker area of the garden – it is the foliage of Jack Frost that makes this plant a standout! For most of the evaluators this plant performed well in dry, shaded conditions filling a much-needed position in the garden. Jack Frost received the highest overall rating of Excellent.
Habit and growth rate observations The mounded habit of the foliage takes about a year from planting to achieve a height of 12 inches with the flowers adding an additional 9 inches. The plants reached a width of 18 to 24 inches in a 2- to 3-year period. Site preference / soil and light Jack Frost grows best in slightly moist, well draining soil in part shade or shade. It showed great drought tolerance in 2005 while growing under Norway maples. Successes and possible drawbacks — how to overcome them Showy foliar variegation stands out in shaded gardens from April to November. For appearance the plant looks best if the spent flower stems are removed. It was also thought that seedlings might revert to the species but on at least one site the seedlings remained true to type. There was only one report of minor slug damage. 30
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
Evaluated 2002-2005
Perennials in
f cus
S N A P S H O T S
Caryopteris divaricata ‘Snow Fairy’ Snow Fairy Bluebeard
Flower description / bloom time The soft blue flowers begin blooming in late July and are ¼ inch or less in small clusters on the tip and sides of the stems. Though pretty, they can get lost in the bright, variegated foliage. Foliage interest—color/texture This bluebeard has fine-textured, variegated foliage. The 2inch leaves are toothed, sage green, with an irregular white margin. The foliage is clean throughout the season and the variegation has a strong effect in the garden until frost. When crushed or bruised, foliage has a mint-like fragrance.
Notes from growers/retailers Growers consider this plant to be an easy container plant to grow with an average finish time. They suggest starting small, shifting up to a larger pot size and pruning once to “fatten” up the plant. Grow in part shade for best coloring of the foliage. Best combinations Consider combining ‘Snow Fairy’ with Stachys byzantina and Geranium sanguineum. It goes well with bright colored flowers and plants with bolder foliage.
Habit and growth rate observations ‘Snow Fairy’ has a vase-shaped habit that reaches 24-30 inches high and wide. Though very slow to return in the spring, it shows more vigorous growth by mid-summer. Site preference—soil and light ‘Snow Fairy’ is said to prefer sun to light shade in average, well-drained soils, but it also did well in the shady garden [see picture below]. It did not overwinter in wet soils.
Parting “SHOT”—the overall evaluation results were Good This plant is no trouble at all and makes a big foliage statement from June until frost. The flowers do not show up unless you are standing close, but who cares? Foliage and growth habit make this plant a winner!
Successes and possible drawbacks— how to overcome them The bright, clean variegated foliage provides interest all season and the mid-size, graceful form of the plant makes it multifunctional in the garden. However, it emerges as late as early June, so do not be too hasty to assume it has died. Rabbit problems can require fencing for protection.
Evaluated 2006-2009 The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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It Happened at iLandscape
Editor’s Note— “You had to be there.” We here this expression every day. Likewise we all know someone who claims to have attended Woodstock — or at least, knows someone who did. This was clearly the case with The Italian Way, a fun, heartfelt event, brimming with family sentiment. For those who could not be part of the 500+ person crowd, Meta Levin attended the event and filed this story offering some of the best quotable moment. RR
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How successful businesses are built on loyalty and
The Italian
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
d respect—
Way
It wasn’t so long
ago that those of Italian descent dominated the landscape contracting business. In fact, they continue to run some of the top companies in the industry. The iLandscape committee decided to give attendees a look into what has made them so successful during “The Italian Way – How Successful Businesses are Built on Loyalty and Respect.” Lubricated by camaraderie and a little Chianti, Charles J. Fiore of Fiore Nursery and Landscape Supply; Rocco Fiore of Rocco Fiore and Sons, Don Fiore of Don Fiore Company; and Harry Vignocchi of ILT Vignocchi were alternately serious and irreverent as they regaled the audience with stories of their families, as well as their deeply held approaches toward business, their employees and their customers. Tony Lobello of Mariani Landscape moderated the panel. Here is their story, told in four vignettes. (continued on page 34)
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It Happened at iLandscape On competition
Regarding labor
Harry Vignocchi – “Never fear competition. There is enough work for all of us.”
Don Fiore – “Immigration concerns me. We had amnesty in the early 90s. Since then, we’ve been through H2B and others. One way or the other, we’re all fighting for the same labor force.”
Rocco Fiore – Competition is not a problem if we offer quality and service; the kind we were taught to do.” Rocco Fiore – “We have a lot of passion for our work. If we let our guard down, we will be out of business.” C.J. Fiore – “When my brother and I had to buy plant material from across the country, we realized how special Chicago area landscape contractors and landscape architects are. The Chicago area is considered the best in the country…Keep your standards high.”
Don Fiore – “We go after the best employees in the industry. I believe in longevity. The better the guy is, the more he is worth every penny we pay him. We’re not the cheapest company around, but we provide great design, construction and maintenance.” Rocco Fiore – “Most of my clients come from referrals.” Rocco Fiore – “I’ve been fortunate to have middle management employees who strive for perfection. We want them to take ownership of what they are doing.” Rocco Fiore – “This year we are two crews down, because we couldn’t get enough laborers. We didn’t try to poach from other compa-
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
nies. We made it through by working longer. Most of my crews have been with me for a long time.” Fiore recounted taking laborers five at a time to get resident alien cards during the 1986 and 1990 amnesty programs. Of the total of 90 he helped, 85 still work for him. The others have retired. C.J. Fiore – “I have been fortunate. I have long time employees. We’re part of their families and they are part of ours.”
Harry Vignocchi – “I learned how not to treat people from the first company I worked for. It was one of the things that forced me away from that business (aluminum siding).” Harry Vignocchi – “Everything used to be done on your word. Now you have to cover everything with lawyers…” Rocco Fiore – “Most people (customers) are very well educated. The customers know what they want. In the past they trusted you. Now they are shopping. There is more appreciation for the landscape. They do a lot of research before they call us. Education makes us better.”
Harry Vignocchi – “There is a labor shortage. It is difficult to tell someone making $10, $15 or $20 an hour that they shouldn’t go someplace else. I sometimes tell them that they should consider working for themselves.”
On early experiences Don Fiore – “I got my degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Illinois in 1967 and by September I belonged to Uncle Sam…I was a drill sergeant (training troops headed for Vietnam). I gained an education in how to train people.”
Don Fiore – “Quality comes from the quality of the employees.” C.J. Fiore – “We have relationships that we have developed over the last 30 years. We perform to their expectations and they to ours.” (continued on page 36)
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847-869-2257 The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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It Happened at iLandscape On family tradition
(continued from page 35) Rocco Fiore – “I’ve been fortunate. I want my employees to take ownership of what they are doing. I’m there for questions, but I want them to be the best that they can be. I think most of those who have left me have started their own businesses; they are still in business and we are still friends.”
Rocco Fiore – “When I graduated, I thought I was a hot shot. My father said, you have talent, but you have to have hard work. Our house rules were, ‘Do the best that you can; treat everyone the best that you can and make customers happy.’
Harry Vignocchi – “I can’t even tell you how many vendors helped me. They would call and say you can’t plant that there or I think you’ll do better with this.” C.J. Fiore – “If you try to slide today, you will pay for it tomorrow.” Rocco Fiore – Rocco Fiore recounted a story that happened early in his career. Ralph Synnestvedt called him on a Saturday morning and said that he was at the nursery and he wanted Fiore to come there. When he arrived, Synnestvedt told him that he didn’t do maintenance and handed him a sheet of paper with the names of 25 accounts on it, asking, “Can you handle that?” He asked that anything over $3,000 in plants be referred to him (Synnestvedt).
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Don Fiore – “I always taught my daughter to do the best that she can. I’ve taught her a lot over the 15 years that she has been out of Michigan State University. She’s better than I ever was.” C. J. Fiore – My brother and I decided that family ownership is not a right of birth. If one of our children wanted to work, that child would have to work and we would find out whether he or she was ownership material. It’s important to us that the company goes on. We’ve been very fortunate that my brother’s son, David, is one of our owners and my daughter, Lisa, is one of our owners. I think they learned their work ethic from us.” C.J. Fiore – “It’s not an old boy’s club anymore. There are some amazing young ladies and they have brought a lot of great things to this industry. I’m proud to be a part of it. The industry has just blossomed.”
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
Expande Tus Con Enfoque: Sección en Español
March 19-20, 2015 • Four Lakes Village • Lisle, IL
ILCA Latino Relations Group Committee
Chair: Maria Bahena Board Advisor: Jose Garcia, Natural Creations Landscaping Armando Actis, SMC Corporation of America Eduardo Alonso, Lurvey's Landscape Supply Marcos Ayala, Schmechtig Landscape Company Bernie Carranza, CLT, Premier Services Julio Barrientos, Lurvey's Landscape Supply Hernan Cortez, Midwest Trading Carlos Puente-Martinez, CLT, Four Lakes Village Catalino Mendoza, Midwest Groundcovers Erika Walters, The Mulch Center Joe Villa, Haggerty Auto Group
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
nocimientos
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
39
It Happened at iLandscape
Entrepreneurial DNA— How to Tell the Rainmakers
from the Profit Suckers and Whiners By Meta L. Levin Dean MacMorris, vice president of ILCA member firm, Night Light, Inc., remembers one of the most dramatic instances of BOSI DNA’s success. Night Light had hired a man in a business development slot, but he was struggling. The BOSI assessment showed that the man the perfect Entrepreneurial DNA for a general manager’s post. It just so happened that Night Light had that job open. Moved into it, the man has done well. “It’s unbelievable,” says MacMorris. “It was a perfect fit.” BOSI DNA founder Joe Abraham smiles when he hears
40
stories like that. BOSI is his baby, the product of his observations and experience since he started his first business with his college roommate. They grew it and eventually sold it and he started another. In all he built, grew and sold four companies. About 10 years ago he turned his attention to other entrepreneurs as a combination consultant and investor. That’s when he began to identify the personality types and the way they made decisions that eventually led to his book, Entrepreneurial DNA (2010) and his latest company, BOSI. (continued on page 42)
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
It Happened at iLandscape (continued from page 40) On the Thursday of iLandscape, he took about 100 attendees through an introduction to the BOSI concept, explaining the character traits of each: B – Builder O – Opportunist S – Specialist I – Innovator “Most of the people that you hire will be specialists,” says Abraham. “They will be experts in a single industry and will appreciate the stability in income.” If they start their own businesses, they will get most of their new clients from referrals and networking. They are analytical and risk adverse and reputation is important to them. “They would rather lose money than look bad.” Specialists’ companies tend to grow in the beginning, then hit a plateau and stay there. Opportunistic entrepreneurs are looking to make as much money as possible. They are excited about being at the
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
right place at the right time and look at the business as an opportunity. “They always want something bigger and better,” says Abraham. They make good sales people. Innovators are highly creative people.
“They look at everything as an opportunity to create something new,” says Abraham. They are happy to be in the back room making new creations. Only 12 to 15 percent of entrepreneurs have this as their primary DNA. “You need an innovator on the design and marketing sides.” As long as there is someone there to take care of the business side and the follow-up, Innovators will provide your company with a
reputation for unique and creative work. Ten to 15 percent of entrepreneurs are Builders, says Abraham. These people will build highly scalable businesses quickly, often by acquiring companies. They are known for pushing their employees beyond their limits. “They know where they are going and how they are going to get there,” he says. “But they are (continued on page 44)
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
43
It Happened at iLandscape (continued from page 43) non-collaborative. Their weakness is people. They see other people as complete idiots.” Abraham’s first step when working with a company is determining the owner’s DNA. “Most entrepreneurs usually are self-aware,” he says. “They take the (BOSI) assessment and they know what they can do with it.” The majority already know their strengths and weaknesses. If there is a inconsistency, it usually is between the real and actual strengths. This is especially true of those whose businesses have plateaued. “They see themselves as someone else,” Abraham says. “An owner’s business results usually align with their Entrepreneurial DNA.” In the case of a discrepancy, Abraham usually recommends that the
owner have a few other people take it on his/her behalf and compare the results. In the end, many people fall into the
“Most entrepreneurs are self-aware. They take the (BOSI) assessment and they know what they can do with it.” trap of trying to emulate others who they see as successful, but “we are wired to
make decisions in a different way,” he says. “I may not make decisions in the same way that you do. It’s really about who you are.” Abraham has built a number of tools that allow him to work with entrepreneurs or allow them to work themselves. They were created with the assessment in mind. So, for instance, Abraham will suggest that some take his small workshops. “They are designed to equip the entrepreneurs with the tools to take the next steps.” Limited to 10 to 15 business owners, the half day workshops often result in ongoing peer groups that meet regularly to provide support and feedback for members. Once the business owner has taken the assessment, he recommends that the management team also take it. “What ‘aha’ moments do (continued on page 46)
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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It Happened at iLandscape
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(continued from page 45) you see from that?” Certain BOSI DNA types do better in some jobs than in others. Abraham recommends using the assessment to build a team that complements the business owner and others already there. “Use it to recruit great talent,” he says. It also is useful when identifying the owner’s and the company’s “sweet spots,” where and how the company stands out. While information gleaned from the assessments is useful for building an effective team for your business, it also is crucial when selling to one of the four BOSI types, says Abraham. For instance, Abraham warns that within the first 30 seconds of meeting you, a Builder will do something to tear you down. “He’s testing you,” he says. “You have to accelerate to Ferrari speed and be ready for the first attack. They love people who move fast.” When selling to an opportunist, be aware that they are driven by fear of loss. They are the ones who often fall for the TV offers that are “for a short time only.” So, when selling to them, be ready with a reason they should make the decision today, right now. Innovators want to know what you can do for them. Specialists are more analytical. They will sit with their arms crossed. With them credibility is everything and they worry that their reputation is on the line. “You have to give them some time,” says Abraham. “Make your presentation. Give them a price and go away. Don’t put pressure on them.” In the end, it is all about identifying and using strengths and weaknesses. And, says Abraham, people can change as they gain experience and maturity. They also can work on improving one aspect of their entrepreneurial DNA or another to meet the needs of the business, the job or the situation.
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ILCA Business Library
Habits to Avoid at Work in 2015
“Achieving success requires more than just doing the right thing,” says Geoffrey James, contributing editor and award-winning blogger at Inc.com and author of Business Without the Bullsh*t: 49 Secrets and Shortcuts You Need to Know. “Success also means changing the behaviors that hold you back.” Here are nine habits you can do without in 2015 —
1
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Doing the bare minimum If you accept a task, you owe it to yourself and to others to make your best effort. If you don’t want to do
something, have the courage to refuse the task. Doing a half-*ssed job is just being passive-aggressive.
2
Telling half-truths Honesty is the best policy. However, if you’re afraid to speak the truth, it’s cowardice to tell a half-truth that’s intended to mislead but leaves you “plausible deniability.” Either tell the whole truth or tell a real lie—and accept the consequences if you’re found out.
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
3
Finger-pointing Few human behaviors are more pointless than fixing blame. In business, it’s usually irrelevant who’s at fault when something goes wrong. What’s important is how to avoid making the same mistakes again.
4
Bucking accountability Finger-pointing is common in business because some people aren’t willing to admit their mistakes. If you’re going to take credit (continued on page 50)
ILCA Business Library (continued from page 48) for your accomplishments, you must also take credit for your failures. The two go hand in hand.
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Hating on successful people When you direct your hate at success, you’re telling yourself that being successful means being hated. Since nobody in their right mind wants to be hated, you’ll subconsciously sabotage yourself so that people will continue to like you.
6
Schadenfreude Taking a secret pleasure in the failures of others makes your own success less likely. You end up gloating over what other people did wrong, rather than doing whatever it takes to make yourself more successful.
7
Workplace gossip As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.” When you spread gossip, you’re identifying
yourself as small-minded and also showing that you can’t be trusted to keep secrets.
8
Creating your own stress While work may be stressful, you make it worse when you fail to disconnect on a regular basis. Rather than answer yet another email, take a walk, read a book, or listen to some music. Turn off your phone when you go to bed; whatever it is, it can wait.
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NEW MEMBERS — CONTRACTOR MEMBERS Countryside Landscaping, Inc. 3-203 Association Drive Lanark, IL 61046 Phone: (815)541-7009 dan@countrysidelandscaping.com Offering design, installation, and maintenance services for the residential market. Details! Details! Landscape Design 1630 Ashbury Lane Romeoville, IL 60446 Phone: (815)609-9515 namcchesney@comcast.net Providing residential landscape services, plant heath care, and on-site consultation services. Frank Dimarco Landscaping, Inc. 530 Shallow Cove Road Lake Zurich, IL 60047 Phone: (847)634-1177 jtomany@comcast.net Residential and commercial maintenance, design & installation since 1968.
GREEN Landscape Development & Management 681 Page Avenue Elgin, IL 60120 Phone: (847)951-9699 gregfrick@greenldm.com A horticultural service company offering design, construction, maintenance, and consulting to residential and commercial clients. Greenwise Organic Lawn Care 1638 Payne Street Evanston, IL 60201 Phone: (847)866-1930 anissa@iamgreenwise.com Services include: organic lawn care; landscape maintenance; landscape design; brick, paver, and natural stone installation for driveways, patios, pathways, and walls, permeable paving projects; andsnow removal. Hardscape Designs 9233 New England Avenue Morton Grove, IL 60053 Phone: (847)966-7620 cfernandez@hardscapedesigns.com
Hardscape Designs Inc. is a full-service landscape provider offering design, construction and maintenance programs to residential, commercial and municipal clients throughout Chicago and Northwest suburbs since 2003. J. Callahan & Co. 12761 S 81st Court Palos Park, IL 60464 Phone: (708)899-6162 jim@jcallahanco.com J. Callahan & Co. is an outdoor space design, construction management and landscape maintenance provider, serving Northern Illinois and Northern Indiana areas. We provide full-scale landscape design, project contracting and maintenance services for homeowners, design firms, builders, or property management companies. J. Callahan & Co. offers services ranging from design concepts, value engineering or construction management only, to a full turn-key landscape solution.
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4 Convenient locations to serve you! Hampshire: 847-683-3700 Hanover Park: 847-453-1240 Plainfield: 815-439-7188 Volo: 815-344-0944 www.wilsonnurseries.com Se habla espaĂąol! 52
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
K.D. Staples & Son 10 East Telser Road Lake Zurich, IL 60047 Phone: (847)526-7279 kdstapleslandscaping@yahoo.com Specializing in roadside restoration, retention, and drainage. Lauro’s Landscaping 713 Park Avenue Sycamore, IL 60178 Phone: (815)761-2033 perezlauro1234@gmail.com Specializing in patio design, build, installation, and maintenance. Manuel Ruiz Landscaping 1629 Techny Road Northbrook, IL 60062 Phone: (847)272-5663 concatct@mr_landscape.com Complete maintenance, design & build. Specializing in hardscapes.
The heart of ILCA is our community of members. We turn competitors into colleagues. Altruism is the backbone of Give to Grow. Any ILCA member who refers a new company will allow that new member to receive $100-off their first year of membership. You will not only place that company on a path to be better, but you will put $100 in their pocket. The $100 bonus you are passing along to them pales in comparison to the money lost on poor competition or an inexperienced customer. Any member may refer any other potential member. If you have a company in mind you want to Give to Grow, they can bo to https://www.ilca.net/membershipapp.aspx and complete the instructions. Together, ILCA gives to grow!
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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NEW MEMBERS — Nation One Landscaping 1039 Industry Road New Lenox, IL 60451 Phone: (815)462-4900 timothydutton@comcast.net A full-service lawn maintenance, design/ build, and snow management firm for commercial and residential projects. R & S Landscaping & Nursery, Inc. 2836 W. Route 126 Plainfield , IL 60544 Phone: (630)774-8154 ismejia@yahoo.com General landscaping installation and maintenance.
Semmer Landscape LLC 2259 W 136th Street Blue Island, IL 60406 Phone: (708)926-2304 gsemmer@semmerlandscape.com Semmer Landscape is a full-service contractor, providing landscape maintenance, enhancements, design, construction and snow removal services for commercial and multi-family buildings and complexes. SUPPLIER MEMBERS Premium Travertine 586 E 7500 South Road Chebanse, IL 60922 Phone: (815)405-7087 pkbuescher@gmail.com Supplier of very high-quality, natural travertine for courtyards, patios, pool decks, entryways, and walkways.
Techo - Bloc 852 Pennsylvania Avenue Pen Argyl, PA 18072 Phone: (610)863-2300 mike.rizzo@techo-bloc.com Manufacturer of concrete paving stones, slabs, and retaining wall block. Dry cast and wetcast production in IL, IN, PA, and Canada. GOVERNMENT/NON-PROFIT MEMBERS Lurie Garden 201 East Randolph Street Chicago, IL 60201 Phone: (312)228-1004 scott@Luriegarden.org
Working together to keep what you value Safe. Sound. Secure.®
For all of your business insurance needs, contact your local independent insurance agent representing Auto-Owners today!
RWC INSURANCE GROUP
“Specializing in the needs of the landscape industry”
Frankfort • 815-469-6585 www.rwc4ins.com
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The Landscape Contractor April 2015
7463 West Ridge Road P.O. Box E Fairview PA 16415 800.458.2234 Fax 800.343.6819 e-mail: info@FairviewEvergreen.com www.FairviewEvergreen.com
MAXIMIZE
PROFIT WITH
MAXIMUM RESULTS WITH THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT AT THE RIGHT PRICE. Skid steers Mini excavators Tillers Stump grinders Wood chippers
Lawn mowers Dethatchers Aerators Overseeders Concrete saws
LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT CHICAGOLAND www.rentalmax.com Crest Hill
815.729.1466
Downers Grove Joliet 630.964.1850
815.726.2723
Lake Zurich 847.438.9490
Orland Park 708.535.5080
Roselle
630.894.1717
St. Charles 630.377.1567
Wheaton
630.668.8200
Member Profile Green Industry Resources
118 S. Washington Street Hinsdale, IL 60521 (847) 457-3150 www.landscaperscompanyresource.com
By Meta Levin
It all started
three years ago with a discussion between John Fisher of GCG Financial and Art Bradley of Monarch Accounting Group. Both had several landscape contractors as clients. When they wanted to refer these people to professionals in other areas, they needed contacts who were familiar with the landscaping industry. Let’s get together, they thought. It took some time to identify and vet a variety of partners, but in October 2014 Green Industry Resources, a coalition of professionals, all of whom have experience in the landscaping industry, was officially born. “We’re all familiar with the industry,” says Fisher, who carries the title of president of the new group. “If I refer to another member, there are going to be expectations that he will have the same high standards,” he says. “These are people who we feel are good people and will give good value.” But it is more than just specialties, the partners often go above and beyond a business relationship. “Art Bradley and my ideology with clients is the same,” says Fisher. “Some of our clients have had tragic events happen and we have been able to help them through that.” Partners include GCG Financial, employee benefits, life insurance; Edward Technology, computer sales, service and IT consulting; Employ Source, payroll, human resource outsourcing and consulting; Law Offices of Leroy Hansen, legal services; Lisl Design, Inc., website design; The Loop Marketing, Inc., online marketing services; Monarch Accounting Group, accounting, consulting and 56
taxes; Rich Becker, business coaching; RWC Insurance, business insurance and Tolbert Wealth, wealth management, retirement planning. “Typically, when someone calls, I feel them out on what they need,” says Fisher, who answers the company phone. “We can come as a package or individually, depending on what is necessary.” Green Industry Resources is sensitive to a client’s comfort zone. If they refer to a member, they will ask whether to customer wants to contact the professional or have the company contact him or her. While Green Industry Resources is composed of those who are familiar with the landscape industry, it concentrates on the business side, not the horticulture work. “Our role is to help with the business end of things,” says Fisher. He is concentrating on trends that he sees with small and medium sized businesses, especially as it pertains to landscape contractors. These include business and regulatory issues that affect companies who employ variable hour workers, handling workman’s compensation and how to control expenses, retirement planning, payroll and finding better, more efficient ways of taking care of business. Fisher observed that it’s not unusual in the smaller businesses to find that the owner is doing everything. “That’s not what he wants to do,” he says. Landscape contractors prefer working outdoors with the plants. Because they are so new, the focus right now is to get their name in front of as many in the industry as possible. “We’re making a strong marketing effort The Landscape Contractor April 2015
to get our name out there,” says Fisher. “Even our website is designed to make it easy to get information.” Green Industry Resources joined ILCA as soon as it incorporated. “Art Bradley has been an ILCA member for years and he told me to look into it,” says Fisher. “I found ILCA does a good job of protecting the interests of the industry.” Fisher has jumped right in. He now serves on ILCA’s Regulatory and Legislative committee, where he is focused on learning as much as he can. He is hoping that the coalition can become more active as time goes on. “People usually get into the landscape industry, because they like being outside dealing with the green,” says Fisher. “We like to be inside dealing with the other kind of green.”
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Classified Ads HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
***ACRES GROUP CAREER OPPORTUNITIES***
Suburban Landscaping Landscape Installation Estimator
Residential Maintenance Account Rep
Acres Group, one of the top 20 landscape contractors in the nation, has the following open positions. MAINTENANCE PRODUCTION: *MANAGER in Plainfield-Manage multiple crews, equipment and materials during landscape and snow seasons. Assure quality service & customer satisfaction while monitoring job costs & crew safety. Provide ongoing training and development. Bilingual Spanish skills-preferred.* SALES: *ACCOUNT MANAGERS (junior & senior levels) Plainfield & Roselle-Manage a portfolio of accounts in lawn and snow providing high levels of customer service, make horticultural recommendations & sell property enhancements in lawn and ice melt in snow, sell new contracted lawn & snow accounts.* IRRIGATION: *IRRIGATION MANAGER in Wauconda-Manage day to day operations for the commercial and multi-family divisions assisting with sales, installation and servicing. Provide ongoing training and development to multiple crews as well as assist with snow in the winter.* Join our industry leading team! To view full job descriptions and apply online visit us at www. acresgroup.com or contact Amy@ 847-4875071.
Dig Right In Landscaping, Inc. focuses on sustainable landscape design, installation and maintenance. The company serves residential customers in the near-western suburbs. We are in a period of growth and are looking to fill numerous positions including but not limited to: • Designer with 5+ years experience and green credentials • Designer 1-3 years experience • Personal Gardener with business acumen Detailed job descriptions can be found on the Careers page of our web site at: www.digrightin.com/careers-pages-36.php
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Rosborough Partners, Inc. is accepting resumes
Estimate, propose, and oversee installation crew for residential & small commercial landscapes. Project types will include brick work, planting, outdoor kitchens, and drainage. Degree or experience equivalent required. Salary, benefits, and profit sharing.
for an experienced Residential Maintenance Account
Please fax resume to: 708-756-1122 or call 708799-6228.
ent sites. Revenue and profitability goals will be set
Kinnucan
Representative to manage portfolio of residential maintenance clients.
Responsibilities include preparing proposals,
contract renewals, identifying and selling new sales
leads and ensuring quality control is followed on clieach year and accomplished by analyzing, planning, organizing, and adjusting schedules to achieve efficient use of resources and people.
Establishing, building and maintaining client
Elite North Shore Contractor established 1970 has position open for Maintenance Account Manager.
relationships are the keys to being successful in this
Apply in person 28877 Nagel Court, Lake Bluff, IL 60044 or email resume to: kris@kinnucan.com
horticultural degree is required. English &
Landscape Design/Sales The Barn Nursery is hiring in our Landscape Design Division. We are seeking experienced applicants for Landscape Design/Sales. The position will focus on high end consumer landscape design, sales and project management. This inspired leader will be able to work independently to create & sell unique, compelling designs for our customers, while managing site analysis, budget, design, and customer service. Please send a resume and project portfolio, if available, to Tom at LandscapeResume@gmail.com Learn more about us at: www.BarnNurseryLandscape.com. Also hiring Experienced Maintenance & Construction Crew Leader. Semmer Landscape LLC Position: Landscape Enhancement and Maintenance Supervisor Semmer Landscape is looking for a qualified individual to supervise and manage landscape enhancement and maintenance crews. Candidate must have experience in both divisions, be fluent in English and Spanish. Computer knowledge of Microsoft word, excel, and outlook is necessary as well as industry software. This is a full time position offering medical insurance, retirement plan and vehicle to the successful candidate. Please send your resume to: gsemmer@semmerlandscape.com
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
position.
Landscape industry experience and/or a
Spanish fluency is a plus.
We offer competitive wages and benefits. Please email resume to:
mary@rosboroughpartners.com Commercial Operations Mgr Rosborough Partners, Inc. is accepting resumes
for an experienced Commercial Operations Mgr to coordinate & schedule operations within the
Commercial Dept. Analyzing, planning, organizing & adjusting schedules to achieve the most efficient use of resources & people areresponsibilities of
this position. Managing &coordinating the winter snow-plowing schedule & execution of activities
during snow events are also part of this position’s responsibilities.
Excellent communication skills are key to being
a successful Commercial Operations Mgr. Landscape industry experience and/or a horticultural degree are
required. English & Spanish fluency is required. We offer competitive wages & benefits. Please email resume to: mary@rosboroughpartners.com Designer Talented designer able to produce high quality designs. Experienced preferred, but willing to train, a self starter, able to multi-task. Plant and hardscape knowledge and excellent people skills required. Reputable established company in the western suburbs. Please send your resume to: ismejia@yahoo.com
Classified Ads HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Designer/Sales Position
Seasonal Color Supervisor (Chicago, Aurora and Grayslake/ Corporate Office)
Assistant Territory Manager
O’Donovan & Son, Inc. is a high-end residential design/build firm seeking a highly motivated, knowledgeable person to join our team. The individual applying will have the following qualifications:
• Excellent attitude and a great fit within our team. • An understanding of landscape design, construction methods, along with basic knowledge of plant material, best horticulture practices and hardscape construction methods, such as outdoor living spaces, retaining walls, etc. • Candidate should also be proficient in generating new business and develop relationships with clients and subcontractors. Please send resume, cover letter, and references to:odonovanlandscp@sbcglobal.net Western DuPage Landscaping Inc. has been serving the Chicago area since 1976 and is seeking candidates to join our growing residential landscape construction and maintenance department. We are located in Naperville, IL. *Construction Field Supervisor Desired candidate must have a strong understanding of horticulture and construction methods. Irrigation and lighting experience a plus. *Construction Foreman / Laborers Looking for candidates with 5+ years of experience and a valid drivers license. Stone and masonry experience preferred. *Lawn care Technician 3+ years experience Pesticide license Valid drivers license Please email resumes to tyler@wdlinc.com or apply in person at 31w478 Diehl Rd, Naperville IL. Office Administrative A/R Associate - Full Time Basic skills will include: highly organized, computer literate, familiar with Quickbooks a plus. Daily invoicing, contract organization, data entry, filing. Able to work in fast paced landscape environment. Strong customer service skills needed. College degree preferred. Please send resumes to Tracey Wold at twold@eisermanandassociates.com or fax to: 847-362-4662
Supervise daily operations of Seasonal Color that provides a high quality and unique colors to the landscape in a safe and cost effect practice. Responsibilities: *Schedule Crews during the install season. *Oversee and direct crew for delivery of product through installation. *Trains crews in planting techniques and proper watering. *Confirms all crews paperwork is completed and distributed properly. *Design all Seasonal Color contracts for sites. *Order plant material for contracts along with scheduling plant deliveries. *Manage annual flower inventory for the branch. Requirements: *Minimal 3 years experience working with plants/annuals. *Good communication skills and Organizational skills. *Experience in operations/supervising crew. *Experience in Microsoft Office including Excel and Word. *Must speak English and Spanish is a plus. *Able to lift 40lbs. *Knowledge of the City of Chicago and surrounding suburbs is a plus. *Maintain plant material at job sites during growing season. *Experience in ordering plant material is a plus. This job description does not list all the duties of the position. Please submit cover letter and resume to Carrie Hancock at: chancock@landscapeconcpets.com Wanted: Lawn Maintenance Supervisor Tommy Pollina Landscape is looking for a maintenance supervisor to help watch over 5 lawn maintenance crews. The supervisor will be responsible for quality control, customer satisfaction, crew safety, and estimating. The supervisor must be bilingual with 3-5 years of experience in the landscape industry and have a valid drivers license. Contact us at 847-698-6868 Or Maureen at mmonahan.tommypollina@ gmail.com
Over 40 years ago, Unilock introduced the paving stone to North America. Today we continue to lead the industry in product innovation and development, education, and contemporary design methodologies. Our regard for realizing the highest quality in all aspects of our business remains foremost in our plans for the future. Unilock has an immediate opening for an Assistant Territory Manager to join our team, that’s designed to connect with contractors, homeowners, architects, engineers and each other. Duties and Responsibilities: • Inside sales • Service and support for customers • Support the outside sales force • Involvement with marketing of our product • Maintain essential customer contact and follow up • Conduct ongoing education and training of customers Requirements: • Entry level sales experience • Bachelor Degree required • Bilingual Spanish is a plus • High sense of urgency • Goal driven with a need to win attitude • Professional demeanor and appearance • Strong organizational, time management, analytical, problem solving and computer skills • A valid drivers license with a good driving record • Ability of lift up to 50lbs Application Instructions: For immediate consideration, please e-mail resume including salary requirements to: hr.chicago@unilock.com Our organization offers a competitive wages and outstanding benefit package. Join the industry leader and become part of an organization with a fast paced work environment and commitment to growth and helping our employees to succeed in their careers and realize their ambitions.
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Classified Ads HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Clarence Davids & Company, a landscape architecture design-build firm, has an opening for a landscape architect in the Plainfield, IL office. The full time position will include developing design solutions and graphic presentations for both commercial and residential clients, with a strong emphasis on seasonal displays.
Designer/Office Intern
Skills required: • Graduate of an accredited Landscape Architecture Program • Experience in AutoCad and Photoshop • Good knowledge of annuals, perennials, and woody plants • Strong design creativity, including seasonal floral display • Ability to work independently and be self-motivated
Interested applicants should send a resume and work samples to: Kurt Pflederer Clarence Davids & Company 23900 W. 127th Street Plainfield, IL 60585 kurt@clarencedavids.com Operations Manager Award winning landscape company in south Naperville seeking an experienced individual that has strong skills with managing crews, plant knowledge, providing estimates, and equipment management. Looking for someone with a great attitude and ready to grow our company with us. 3 years experience in the field is required. Contact Carter at cconlin@cbconlin.com NATION ONE LANDSCAPING 1039 Industry Rd, New Lenox (815) 462-4900 is currently looking for experienced labor, foremen, and working supervisors for lawn maintenance, landscape enhancements, and construction. Professional Certifications preferred All candidates will be considered. We are having a one day open house Thursday March 19th from 12-5pm.
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LANDSCAPE DESIGNER Seeking landscape designer at a well-established, full service landscaping company. Applicant must have experience in CAD based design, estimating and customer service. Responsibilities will include meeting clients, surveying, designing,estimating, sales and field set up. Pay scale based on experience. OFFICE INTERN Seeking part time (summer) applicant to assist in daily office operations. Primary responsibilities will include answering phones, scheduling appointments and assist with data/processing. Must be able to manage multiple phone lines and provide exemplary customer skills. Bilingual a plus
Send resumes to Maureen: mmonahan.tommypollina@gmail.com Conservation Land Stewardship, Inc. (CLS) has a career opportunity in the field of ecological restoration as a project estimator in the Chicago market. CLS, Inc.is a highly regarded contracting firm providing all services related to ecological restoration, as well as, the construction of associated project specific improvements not related to ecological restoration. Due to our plans for aggressive growth we have an immediate opening for an estimator in our Elmhurst office.This position requires extensive understanding of ecological restoration activities, along with basic knowledge of construction methods. Also required is the ability to read plans and specifications, build strong relationships with subcontractors and customers, and to project a professional image and a positive attitude. Applicable Bachelors Degree preferred. Good written and verbal communication skills along with strong organizational and time management skills and proficiency in Word, Excel, Outlook, Project Estimating Systems, and a basic understanding of business math, accounting and financial reporting are also required. Other Information: Compensation based on qualifications and experience. Incentive income will be based on performance. Excellent benefits including 401k. Pre-employment drug screening and E-verify SS # verification are required. CLS, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Please email resumes to: Christine Somheil at csomheil@conservationlandstewardship.com
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
HELP WANTED SEBERT LANDSCAPING CAREER OPPORTNITIES We are an award winning commercial contractor that has managed corporate properties throughout the Chicago area since 1985. *Account Manager* Candidate is the primary customer contact and company liaison for contracted accounts. Individual is responsible for necessary follow-up and follow-through to maintain positive customer relations, to insure complete customer satisfaction and contract renewals, suggest and sell noncontracted landscape enhancements.
*New Business Development * Applicant shall be a highly motivated and creative professional who is looking to work in a team environment. *Commercial Construction Estimator/Project Manager* Responsible for the sales, project management, scheduling, completion and billings of commercial landscape construction projects. *Spray Technicians* Sebert Landscaping seeks a turf/plant health care applicator. The ideal candidate will have an Illinois Pesticide Applicators license. Training is available. *Irrigation Technician*
Under close supervision, the technician performs a variety of tasks in the installation, troubleshooting, maintenance, and management of irrigation equipment, irrigation systems, and small pumps, and related duties as assigned. *Commercial / Residential Field Supervisor* Under the direction of the Account Manager, this position will work with crews directly, using their field experience to assist crews with training and guidance to achieve quality and efficiency. If interested in any listed position, please send your resume to: lorena@sebert.com
Advertisers HELP WANTED - Maintenance Foreman A landscaping company in the southern suburbs is seeking a Maintenance Landscape Foreman. Foreman qualifications include: • Experience leading crews of 2-4 laborers and overseeing performance, profitability and safety. • Skilled in performing landscape maintenance • Ability to communicate with clients, and Management • Bilingual-English/Spanish preferred • Drivers license preferred Yard located in Worth, IL. Competitive
wages. Submit information and experience to: LandscapeForemanJob@gmail.com or fax to: 708-572-6060.
The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, ILs eeks a Horticulturist for the Display Horticulture Crew. Associate degree in horticulture or related field required. 9+ months of relevant work experience required. Occasional weekend and evening work. Application and job posting at: www.mortonarb.org. Send cover letter & resume to: The Morton Arboretum, Human Resources, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL, 60532-1293, or email to: jobs@mortonarb.org. EOE
1st Choice Equipment ..........................................53
JKS Ventures .....................................................43
ABlock Marketing ...................................................49
Kramer Tree Specialist .........................................34
Agrecol..............................................................46
Lafarge Fox River Stone .........................................41
Bartlett Tree Experts .........................................51
Longshadow Planters ..........................................17
Beaver Creek Nursery ..........................................43
McGinty Bros. ....................................................42
Cardno ......................................................................50
Midwest Groundcovers .......................................44
Carlin Sales................................................................6
Midwest Trading ...................................................2
Chicagoland Gardening ......................................61
NGL Energy Partners LLC ...................................48
Clesen Wholesale ..................................................35
Palatine Oil ...........................................................40
Dayton Bag & Burlap ...............................................53
ProAp Fertilizer ...................................................57
Doty Nurseries LLC ..................................................4
ProGreen Plus ......................................................61
Fairview Evergreen Nursery .....................................54
Rainbow Farms ....................................................45
Goodmark Nurseries ...............................................47
Rentalmax .............................................................55
Green Glen Nursery ...........................................63
Rocks Etc. ............................................................46
B. Haney & Sons, Inc. .........................................42
RWC Insurance Group ..........................................54
Hinsdale Nurseries, Inc. ......................................36
Stockyards Brick ...................................................37
Homer Industries, Inc. .........................................13
The Care of Trees .....................................................6
IL Propane Gas Association ....................................51
The Mulch Center ................................................50
In the Field Design Tour ........................................13
Unilock Chicago .................................................64
Kramer Tree ...........................................................24
Wilson Nurseries & Landscape Supply ...............52
James Martin Associates .........................................61
Xylem, Inc. .........................................................46
CLASSIFIED ADS CLOSING DATES & RATES May 2015 issue ads: April 15, 2015 June 2015 issue ads: May 15, 2015 PLEASE NOTE: “HELP WANTED” AD SALES ARE LIMITED TO ILCA MEMBER COMPANIES Magazine Cost is $5 per line Minimum charge $50 Optional Website Cost is $7 per line Minimum charge $70 (About 6 words/line) Call Alycia O’Connor (630) 472-2851 or use the online submission form located at www.ilca.net
The Landscape Contractor April 2015
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By Patrice Peltier
Malus ‘Royal Raindrops’
Some plants —
just like All-Star athletes — make everyone around them look better. What’s a plant you can use—and recommend-- with confidence? We’ve asked ILCA members to share their thoughts on proven performers. Crabapples have become somewhat underused in recent years, in part because they may have gotten a bad rap from old varieties that had foliage-related disease problems. As a group, they still have a place in the landscape because of their fruit, flower and size, especially when you choose disease-resistant selections. They can fill in that bare spot in the front yard of your client’s home, and the flower display in the spring cannot be beat. Royal Raindrops® crabapple is a plant that can get us excited about planting crabapples again. This introduction from J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co. is a solid, year-round plant. In the spring it kicks off with very nice, dark pink blooms that put on quite a show. These blossoms are followed by unique, cut-leaf purple foliage that holds its dark color through the summer months, and stays cleaner than most of its counterparts in the crab genera. It also has a nice reddish fruit display in the fall in combination with a lovely bronze-orange autumn leaf display. A few key attributes of this plant in addition to the clean foliage are that it has a strong drought tolerance, allowing it to continue flourishing through the dog days of summer. It also has a slightly upright habit that looks attractive as it matures with little upkeep. Another plus is that it grows rather quickly, especially as a young plant, which rapidly gives it a presence in the landscape. All in all, Royal Raindrops® Crabapple should make you want to put the crabapple group back at the top of your list of go-to plants.
Malus ‘Royal Raindrops’ facts— Size:
100’
Foliage:
Dark purple, cutleaf foliage takes on bronze and orange tones in fall. Flowers
18-20’ tall with spread of 12-15’’ Culture
Prefers Sun Soil Adaptable Drought tolerant 62
Ryan Doty, Owner Doty Nurseries LLC
Bright magenta pink flowers
Ryan grew up in the nursery business. After graduating from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a degree in finance, he began working in the industry. Ryan has been involved in a number of organizations. He has served on the ILCA Field Day committee for 11 years and was president of the Ornamental Growers Association of Northern Illinois. Ryan is the owner of Doty Nurseries LLC which is a field growing nursery just north of Elburn, Illinois that supplies trees, intermediates, upright evergreens and shrubs.
The Landscape Contractor April 2015