The Landscape Contractor magazine MAR.22 Digital Edition

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Awards night celebrates the best

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March 2022

CONTENTS Excellence In Landscape Awards Project

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FOCUS: ILCA Excellence in Landscape Awards A Welcome Back Fiesta! iLandscape make a triumphant return

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Excellence in Landscape Awards ILCA members celebrate excellence 20

EN ESPAÑOL

One Fiesta — Todos Unidos iLandscape Show Preview

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Prettu, Hardy, Prolific: 38 Plants for urban sites

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New Members 50 A bounty of new members Hidden Landscape Gems Bird Haven Greenhouse and Conservatory

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Member Profile 54 Erickson Landscaping, Inc. Inspiration Alley 61 Up, Up and Away!

Hidden Landscape Gems Friendship Park Conservatory

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On the cover... Scott Byron & Co., Inc. received a 2021 Gold Award for Residential Construction with this project titled A Garden in the City.

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS

ILCA Calendar From Where I Stand President’s Message Classified Ads Advertisers Index

Photo Credits

ILCA Awards Committee Rick Reuland Mark Dwyer Education Committee Nina Koziol Heather Prince

Calendar 4 5 7 56 61

MARCH March 1, 2022 Spring Training for Landscape Professionals Eureka, IL March 3, 2022 Women’s Networking Group Spring Event Schaumburg, IL

1, 8-9, 20-30 10-18, 32-33 38-49 22-32 61 62

March 22, 2022 Field Staff Skills Training Naperville, IL

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 63, Number 3. 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, 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

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 AnneMarie Drufke adrufke@ilca.net

Debbie Rauen Advertising Sales (817-501-2403) debbie.landscapecontractor@ yahoo.com

Events Manager Terre Houte thoute@ilca.net Office Manager Alycia Nagy anagy@ilca.net Membership & Marketing Manager Marissa Stubler mstubler@ilca.net

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The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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From Where I Stand — A few weeks before iLandscape 2022, the ILCA

Board asked me how show prep was going. I replied, “Outside of the Omicron variant, ongoing global pandemic, vaccine mandate, mask mandate, and snow in the forecast...not too bad.”

When we budgeted-for and built iLandscape 2022 in the spring of 2021, a covid vaccine was available. Case counts were dropping. The industry was riding high after 16 months of historic success. Summer was coming and we saw the return of bars, restaurants, Cubs and White Sox games, youth sports, and schools. Many of us were beginning to look beyond the pandemic and see life returning to normal. ILCA did too.

We planned the party to end all parties. Our Experience and Education committees scraped off a year of rust and began planning an event two years in the making. Our theme reflected a massive party where everyone would be invited. Whether we were optimistic or naive, we thought planning for a massive, in-person iLandscape was the best path forward.

Virtual events were overstaying their welcome. Many were Zoomed-out and putting on iLandscape365 was no easier than putting on a live event. In fact, virtual presented new challenges and we didn’t have our traditional volunteer and committee roles to assist with the heavy lifting. The virtual iLandscape took five staff members, two inoffice volunteers, 10 computers, a fully functioning control room, and thousands of dollars in costs.

Simply put, we could not put on a live and virtual iLandscape in 2022. We didn’t have the budget, staff, or audience to make both successful.

So we picked a lane and went live. For a few glorious months, life skipped along. The mask mandate was lifted for the vaccinated.

Then Delta hit. The masks came back on. Then Omicron surged.

Vaccination rates slowed. Instead of steaming ahead, our little show now felt like a cork bobbing in the ocean.

I keep in constant contact with my counterparts in other states who run green industry tradeshows. All of us were in the exact same boat. Maryland, Alabama, Minnesota, Colorado, Florida, Michigan, Indiana, etc. all were trying to pull off shows within a six week period following New Year’s. Around that time, it felt like Omicron was coming in through the air vents. Everyone and anyone, vaccinated or not, was dealing with the super-contagious strain.

As cities and states moved to counteract the rapid and massive spread, many states put in new measures including mask and vaccine mandates. Cook County followed suit and all of a sudden our show had a new ball to keep in the air. So, although you still didn’t need to be vaccinated to ride in an airplane, board a Metra, or visit a nursing home, you all of a sudden needed to be vaccinated to enjoy a chicken sandwich at the Schaumburg Convention Center.

We already were facing headwinds from the Covid-hesistant who did not feel safe attending a large in-person gathering. With the implementation of the mandate, now we were facing a barrage of questions and criticisms from the unvaccinated. Our audience was getting nipped on both sides and all the show could do was keep moving forward.

January was hard on the staff. Numbers were about 20-25% off from where we would typically be at for our in-person event. As the day passed, it became clear that the show we wanted to put on in our hearts, could not happen under these circumstances. There were

thousands of people ready to join us, but there were hundreds more who just were not prepared to come given the circumstances.

A few weeks before the show, as I stared into a brown glass of bourbon with a melting ice cube, I asked my wife what I was supposed to do. It seemed like an impossible task to plan the show and keep everyone happy. She said something that got me through the next few weeks, “You are going to put on the greatest show possible for the people who show up. That is what you would do under any circumstance and that is what you are going to do now. Stop focusing on who is not coming and start focusing on who is.”

Those words lit my fire. She was exactly right.

People weren’t coming to iLandscape this year to make me happy. They were coming because they needed this. They needed to feel normal again.

They were willing to accept some level of risk and make some sacrifices for the education, networking, community, and fun that iLandscape provides.

Everyone who was going to make the effort to attend desperately wanted to be there. We needed to feed off of that energy. Those were our peeps and this was going to be their Fiesta.

Well, then the blizzard hit.

As the old saying goes, “Make plans, god laughs.” The weather map on Tuesday looked like Jack Frost reared back and smacked the entire country across the face. A band of sleet and snow stretched from Tulsa to Maine and the snow line went right through Schaumburg. Our snow contractors watched their weather services and were providing updates to us. At about 9:00 pm on Tuesday night we got the word, it was going to be bad.

I woke up at about 3:00 am on Wednesday morning and looked out my hotel window. Not a fleck on the ground. I smiled, fell back in bed, and drifted off to sleep. I thought, we may have actually dodged the snow bullet for a change. A few hours later, the snow started, and didn’t stop. Schaumburg got off easy, but even 30 minutes south was dealing with 10”. I mentioned the snow was supposed to stop at 4:00 pm that day. Once it stopped, the people would come. A snow contractor put his hand on my shoulder and said, “Scott, this is going to a 48-hour push, but they will be there on Friday, just watch.”

We called Wednesday our “soft launch.” This was the first iLandscape in two years and it was helpful to have manageable crowds to work with. Even as snow piled up across the state, we still had people. Education sessions filled after a slow start to the morning. The tradeshow floor was understandably slow, but the sights and sounds of iLandscape put smiles on faces. We refused to cut any corners knowing that the crowds who braved Snowvid (Snow + Covid) deserved our best effort.

That night, the band Modern Day Romeos played to a crowd of a few hundred (and one cardboard cutout of John Algozzini). Outside of the hall, free nachos, tacos, churros, and palomas kept the party going. Finally, everyone was able to relax. The beautiful sounds of networking — laughter and conversation filled the hallways.

As contractors plowed into the night, the roads cleared on Thursday and anyone not involved with snow operations was able to join us. Lines formed at registration. Education rooms swelled.

We had live-remote sessions with speakers from India, Wales, and Australia. The Latinos and Americanos Subcommittee’s four-part series on bridging the culture gap doubled in size. The floor hummed.

Exhibitors smiled.

The Show Must Go On

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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From Where I Stand — Thursday night, the ILCA Excellence in Landscape Awards Night ends around 9:00 pm. The crowd usually shuffles to the hotel bar.

Here, they meet up with all the attendees and vendors returning from dinner who are not quite ready to give up on their day. The entire lobby turns into Gather Bar. Illinois and Wisconsin contractors and suppliers mix with students and speakers. ILCA Past Presidents and committee members gather around the fireplace. Bottles are passed, pandemic or not.

This year, a strange phenomenon happened. Normally, this lobby party can be cliquish and people segregate themselves into smaller vignettes. Not this year, it was just one big, happy family. The groups intermingled, hugged, and shared pizza and beer. Strangers turned into friends. The energy of being together radiated throughout the building and shot up the elevator shafts. Finally, it felt like old times.

Friday is our inclement weather day. The show hours are shorter and we have fewer education sessions. We hold student activities and try to leave on a high note. This Friday was much different. The cars streamed into the parking lot. The snowplow drivers and small business owners came in from the cold. The last piles had been pushed and now they had one day to relax and let loose. Friday turned into our busiest Friday we have ever had...even pre-pandemic. The show crackled. The One Fiesta was in full swing.

My mom always comes to the last day of iLandscape. She’s the show’s #1 fan. This year, a week prior, she lost her balance in a parking garage, fell, and broke her hip. I visited her in rehab the night before we arrived for set-up on Monday. She smiled from her bed, grabbed my hand, and said, “Thank you so much for visiting right before your show.

This is going to give you good karma!”

I wondered what would’ve happened if I didn’t go visit her in rehab!

The Convention Center could’ve been hit with a meteor.

After the show, I had a long weekend, and a few more glasses of bourbon to think about what she said about karma. Karma was having this show at all. Karma was standing arm and arm with the best staff a boss could ask for. Karma was our committees holding together after two years of Zoom meetings and virtual events and setbacks. Karma was a Memorial Garden only featuring the names of 13 men and women we lost last year and not 31. Karma was the courage and sacrifice 5,000 people had to brave Snowvid. Karma was holding a show that still resembles this industry on our best day. Karma was giving the landscape industry a day of rest and fun after two years (and a very recent 48 hours) of pure exhaustion.

So, my Mom was right. Outside of the Omicron variant, global pandemic, vaccine mandate, mask mandate, and a blizzard, Karma was on our side.

See you at iLandscape 2023 — the show goes on!

Sincerely,

Scott Grams Executive Director February 21, 2022

A L L TO G E T H E R B E T T E R W W W . M A R I A N I P L A N T S .COM

866-627-4264

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The Landscape Contractor March 2022

President’s Message — After a two-year hiatus from hosting an in-person iLandscape Show, I cannot express how great it felt to have a relative return to normalcy. Even with an ongoing, major winter

storm, county COVID restrictions, and the uncertainty of the impacts of the Omicron variant, the energy at the show was palpable and another page can be added to the iLandscape success story.

And speaking of success, the Excellence in Landscape Awards night continued to display the beautiful, professional, and high-quality work that our members produce. I recently stumbled upon a quote by Robert Braathe that reads, “Gratitude and attitude are not challenges; they are choices.”

While I could write about the success of iLandscape, the upcoming spring season, or countless other items that ILCA is working on, I would simply like to use this platform to display gratitude for our award winners, Distinguished Supplier, and Person of the Year.

First, I’d like to thank and congratulate the companies who submitted and won awards this year. There are countless hours of analysis, preparation, staging, photography, and writing, not to mention financial costs, associated with award submissions. While it might seem like a simple task, these companies put forth an inordinate amount of effort to ensure their projects are portrayed professionally and the associated narrative tells the right story. I know there is a great amount of pride in our awards program, and I thank all the companies who have participated for their involvement and passion for earning these awards. Scott McAdam Jr. Our Distinguished Supplier, Lafarge Fox River Stone, also deserves additional thanks for all they provide ILCA. As a perennial supporter of virtually every ILCA event, as well as involvement in our committee structure, they continue to show the importance of our supplier members and the impact they have on our association. They are known for their impeccable customer service, supported by a culture of warmth, and building close relationships. Not only does the entire staff work within that culture, but they also live it. Whether Jim, Sara, or Nicole, I can’t think of a group of people who are more interested in understanding how they can make a difference, be it for one of their clients or for ILCA. They exemplify the meaning of this award.

And finally, to our Person of the Year, John Algozzini. I’m sure most members know who John is, but for those who don’t, he is the Godfather of iLandscape; the man who had a big (albeit risky) idea and brought iLandscape to its current level of success. Without John’s efforts, I’m unsure ILCA would be where we are, if even exist at all. As I reflect on his comments upon receiving his award, one thing comes to mind — humility. Throughout his speech, I cannot recall one time he spoke about himself and what he has accomplished, but instead was sure to give thanks to all those who were a part of his success story along the way. I’ve found that the most successful people are often the most humble, and John is the poster child of humility. John — I feel privileged to have been able to present you with this honor and I cannot think of anyone who was more deserving. Congratulations and enjoy!

Sincerely, Scott McAdam Jr.

President

Scott McAdam, Jr. McAdam Landscaping, Inc. (708) 771-2299 Scottjr@mcadamlandscape.com

Vice-President

Jeff Kramer Kramer Tree Specialists, Inc, (630) 293-5444 jwkramer@kramertree.com

Secretary-Treasurer

Ashley Marrin Bret-Mar Landscape Management Group, Inc. (708) 301-8160 ashley@bretmarlandscape.com

Immediate Past President Donna Vignocchi Zych ILT Vignocchi, Inc. (847) 487-5200 dvignocchi@iltvignocchi.com

Directors

Eric Adams Russo Power Equipment (847) 233-7811 eadams@russopower.com Jim Cirrincione Hinsdale Nurseries, Inc. (630) 323-1411 jcirrincione@hinsdalenurseries .com Kim Hartmann Hartmann Consulting 847-404-7669 hartmannkim@comcast.net Jennifer Fick Wilson Nurseries and Landscape Supply (847) 683-3700 jennf@wilsonnurseries.com Tom Klitzkie Nature’s Perspective Landscaping (847) 475-7917 tklitzkie@naturesperspective.com Dean MacMorris Night Light, Inc. (630) 627-1111 dean@nightlightinc.net Kevin Manning K & D Enterprise Landscape Management, Inc. (815) 725-0758 kmanning@kdlandscapeinc.com Mark Utendorf Emerald Lawn Care, Inc. (847) 392-7097 marku@emeraldlawncare.com

www.ilca.net

Después de un período de dos años sin organizar una Feria iLandscape en persona, no puedo expresar con palabras la gran satisfacción que sentimos al tener un regreso relativo a la normalidad. Aún con una severa tormenta invernal continua, las restricciones del condado relacionadas con el COVID y la incertidumbre del impacto de la variante ómicron, la energía durante la feria fue palpable y se puede añadir una nueva página a la historia de éxitos de iLandscape. Y hablando de éxito, la noche de Premios a la Excelencia en Paisajismo continuó desplegando el bello trabajo, profesional y de alta calidad que nuestros miembros producen. Hace poco me topé con una cita de Robert Braathe que dice, “La gratitud y la altitud no son desafíos; son opciones”. Si bien puedo escribir sobre el éxito de iLandscape, la próxima temporada de primavera o innumerables cosas en las que ILCA está trabajando, deseo usar esta plataforma para mostrar gratitud a nuestros ganadores de los premios, Proveedor Distinguido y Persona del Año.

Primero, deseo agradecer y felicitar a las compañías que participaron y ganaron premios este año. Las presentaciones a los premios implican innumerables horas de análisis, preparación, montaje, fotografías y escritura, sin mencionar los costos económicos. Si bien puede parecer una simple tarea, estas compañías invirtieron una cantidad extraordinaria de esfuerzos para asegurar que sus proyectos fueran representados profesionalmente y que la narrativa relacionada con los mismos transmitiera la historia correcta. Sé que existe un alto nivel de satisfacción personal en nuestro programa de premios y agradezco a las compañías que han participado por su involucramiento y pasión por ganar estos premios.

Nuestro distinguido Proveedor, Lafarge Fox River Stone, merece también un agradecimiento adicional por todo lo que provee a ILCA. Como soporte perenne de prácticamente todos los eventos de ILCA, así como por su participación en la estructura de nuestro comité, ellos continúan demostrando la importancia de nuestros miembros proveedores y el impacto que ejercen en nuestra asociación. Son conocidos por su impecable servicio al cliente, apoyados por una cultura de calidez y desarrollo de relaciones estrechas. El personal no solo trabaja dentro de esa cultura, también la vive. Sea Jim, Sara o Nicole, no puedo pensar en otro grupo de personas más interesadas en comprender cómo pueden influir positivamente, sea para uno de sus clientes o para ILCA. Ellas ejemplifican el significado de este premio.

Y finalmente a nuestra Persona del Año, John Algozzini. Estoy seguro de que la mayoría de los miembros saben quién es John, pero para los que no, es el Padrino de iLandscape; el hombre que tuvo una gran (aunque riesgosa) idea y llevó a iLandscape a su actual nivel de éxito. Sin los esfuerzos de John, no estoy seguro si ILCA estaría donde está o incluso existiera. Cuando reflexiono sobre sus comentarios al recibir su premio, algo viene a la mente — humildad. Durante todo su discurso, no puedo recordar ni una sola vez en que haya hablado de sí mismo y lo que ha logrado, en lugar de eso, se aseguró de agradecer a todos los que fueron parte de su historia de éxito a lo largo del camino. He descubierto que la gente más exitosa es también la más humilde y John

es el paradigma de la humildad. John — fue un privilegio para mí poder presentarte este honor y no puedo pensar en ninguna otra persona que lo mereciera más. ¡Felicitaciones y disfruta!

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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Bertog Landscape Co. • Wheeling Lake House Retreat

Nestled within rolling hills along Lake Geneva, this Wisconsin home is the family’s oasis from everyday life.

Guests approach through a hardwood forest bordered by sweeping woodland sedges and native perennials. American hazelnut, gray dogwood and witch hazel provide definition along the driveway. Entering through custom limestone pillars, the horseshoe drive directs visitors along a mix of ornamental grasses and seasonal perennials. The clay brick drop-off welcomes guests, while a thermal bluestone landing features scallop edging enhanced by seasonal annuals.

An informal bluestone pathway leads to the side of the house, where an intimate semi-circular limestone kitchen – with pizza oven, gas grill and Green Egg – satisfies the son’s culinary skills.

Entering the rear yard, a curvilinear bluestone patio with limestone seat walls and a circular fire feature complements architectural detailing while maximizing site lines to Lake Geneva. Naturalistic gardens around the patio provide seasonal color and a sense of intimacy.

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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iLandscape 2022 —

Attendees just wanted to be there Nina A. Koziol

Despite Covid-weariness, mask mandates,

cabin fever, and a snowstorm the first day of the show that dropped nearly a foot or more in some spots, landscapers, designers, installers, suppliers, contractors, owners, students and others—from Illinois and several surrounding states— crowded the exhibit halls, the education sessions and the entertainment venues at the ninth annual iLandscape show in Schaumburg last month.

This year’s show attracted nearly 5,000 attendees, an

amazing number that is only 20 percent down from the largest iLandscape attendance two years ago. “This audience wanted iLandscape to feel normal and to crackle with the same energy it has in the past,” said ILCA Executive Director Scott Grams. While some potential attendees expressed ongoing concern over the virus and others conveyed frustrations at the mandates and proof of vaccination requirement, the consensus of attendees was that nothing beats having the show in person once again.

“This is always an energizing event,” said Clare Johnson, director of design and marketing for Himsben Design Studio in Chicago. “It’s a great way to kick off the season and see the newest products and fellow professionals.”

Between the exhibit floors, the educational sessions, the raffles, the live music, (and perhaps the bar), there was no shortage of activities. “The energy and enthusiasm for seeing our industry colleagues was high,” said ILCA Board Director

Kim Hartmann. Despite the snowfall, “Education attendance built gradually during the day on Wednesday, was comparable to 2020 levels on Thursday, and higher than typical on Friday,” Hartmann said.

Richard Miyazaki, owner of Stonewood Landscape in Barrington has attended the show since it was Mid-Am in the early 1990s. “I come to connect with people and to attend the education seminars. It’s good to get away this time of year.” (continued on page 13)

iLandscape 2022 —

Attendees came back for classes...

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The Landscape Contractor March 2022

Back to School This year’s event offered nearly 50 education sessions covering topics from design, hardscape and plants to disease and insects, public gardens and a variety of business issues like staffing, selling and customer satisfaction. A program highlight, “Uniting Latino and American Culture in the Workplace,” was presented by the ILCA Latinos & Americanos Committee. Offered four parts during the show, the speakers, including past president Jose Garcia, presented entirely in Spanish to packed rooms.

The education sessions also included nationally recognized speakers as ILCA continues to offer high-caliber presentations for all landscape professionals—from newbies to old pros. A few programs were streamed live from Australia, Wales, India, New York and Washington, DC. “Virtual sessions were scheduled to bring a global perspective to the work we do,” Hartmann said. “The education audience was more diverse in terms of role, length of experience and background.”

First-time attendee Sarah Boutwell said, “I feel very fortunate to be here.” A horticulturist at Epic in Verona, Wisconsin, Boutwell was particularly inspired by “The Art of Gardening at Chanticleer” session.

Chanticleer in Wayne, Pennsylvania, has been called one of the most interesting and edgy public gardens in America.

(continued on page 15)

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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iLandscape 2022 —

Attendees came back for the suppliers...

14

“I would love to visit that garden,” Boutwell said. The “Leadership for Crew Leaders” session provided her with new and different ideas to enhance her skills. “The program looked at different ways of leading—making sure to coach and provide education and explain why we’re doing things a certain way.”

After two long, Covid-numbing years, some of the sessions focused on the creation of healing gardens outside of hospitals and community health clinics, design characteristics of meditative gardens and evening gardens as well as a fascinating look at 400 years of garden legends of ornamental horticulture in America. Thought-provoking and inspirational for all who attended.

For Ling Ji, design director at Schmechtig Landscape in Lake Zurich, iLandscape is about lifelong learning and shared experiences. “I truly enjoy the success stories—the Brooklyn Bridge Park approach and the naturalistic landscape,” she said. The session “Brooklyn Bridge Park: Lessons in Constructed Ecology” was streamed live from New York. “They learned lessons from that project and gave very detailed suggestions and practical solutions that I can use for my work on smaller scale projects. It’s worth it to spend time here.”

Lee Olson, director at the Nebraska Nursery & Landscape Association and owner/designer of Landscape Ink in Omaha, Nebraska, arrived on Thursday.

“There was more snow in Chicago than back home. We’ve had no snow and I have a small tree farm so I’m really worried.”

Although Olson attended Mid-Am years ago, this was his first iLandscape experience. “A colleague told me it was a very great show. The education line up is what drew me. There were so many sessions I couldn’t catch them all so I’m looking forward to the recordings. I really liked the one about the Money Tree as far as marketing your business. The Healing Garden [by Mark Dwyer] and a lot of those talks — it was refreshing to get new ideas and new perspective. I like to hit these shows because I see things I don’t see locally.”

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iLandscape 2022 —

Attendees came back for the FUN!

16 16

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

Exhibits More than 270 exhibitors participated in this year’s show. “The personal connection is what ties our industry together,” said exhibitor Rich Bailey, sales manager for J. Frank Schmidt & Son in Boring, Oregon. “It’s relationships and the importance of seeing our customers and understanding their stresses and successes—and sharing what the opportunities are. The personal connection with the customers and the nurseries is vital.

The attendance was great.” Although Friday is the final and shortest day of the show, Bailey notes that it was the busiest for his exhibit booth.

Amy Hannon, owner of Rainbow Garden Designs in Naperville, has attended all nine iLandscape shows.

“I’ve been coming since it started. I love going to all the education sessions and the trade show to see all the new things.”

A virtual show is convenient, but in-person events will always trump the digital airwaves. “There was simply no appetite from the vendors for a virtual event, so we needed to make sure we held an in-person experience,” Grams said. Meeting planners share his feelings. “It’s a testament that people want face-to-face events,” said Sharon Vojtek, convention show consultant in Palos Heights, Illinois. “They’re dying to see the products and see other people. It doesn’t matter what generation they’re from—young or old—they want to meet in person.”

Although he didn’t see his usual sales reps, Olson said, “It was really nice to see that many exhibitors at a show again.

There were some unique products and new materials.”

Get a Job! Nearly 40 companies—small to large—participated in this year’s career fair. Staff from landscape firms, nurseries, tree care companies, equipment firms and others reached out to students, recent graduates and those looking to change careers. Suzanne Hilton, assistant designer with Schmechtig Landscape, studied and worked in architecture before deciding to make a change long after she garnered her college degree.

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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iLandscape 2022 — She’s been in her current position about 18 months. “I attended iLandscape during school and last year. I’m interested in the education sessions—all of them. I really liked the program on “Oak Decline: A Fight Against the Inevitable”—a good speaker and very interactive.”

Dedication by the Dozens Many ILCA board and committee members were on hand to answer questions, provide directions, manage the education sessions, the raffles and games, and much more. “The people who work on this show are rock stars,” Grams said. “It just doesn’t work without the volunteers and committee members. My staff is forever grateful for the work volunteers perform and the joy they bring to their jobs. I want to hug and high five every one of them.”

An upbeat vibe was felt in the convention center every day. “I was very pleased by the show, especially how it ended,” Grams said.

“It felt great to have that energy back! We finished with 5,000 registered, which was my absolute ceiling for the event. When you are dealing with mask mandates, vaccine mandates, a pandemic, blizzard, and everyone short on labor, I was thrilled with the turnout.”

Stay Tuned Mark your calendars for the 10th iLandscape show — February 1-3, 2023, at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center. Olson is making plans to attend. “It was a great show. I was amazed and I will be back. I loved it and I’m bringing more people next time.”

The gears are already in motion. “We never stop planning—2023 will be 10 years of iLandscape and we want to have an anniversary party to remember,” Grams said.

“This event was designed to be the reward for an industry that has worked so hard over the last 24 months. Every year we learn how to make this show a little bit better. Just buckle up because I do expect 2023 to be the largest, most impressive show we have ever produced.”

In the meantime, see what other ILCA events are coming your way: https://www. ilca.net/professional/events

18

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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Excellence In Landscape Awards 2022

New Awards for 2022 2022 brought some interesting new twists to the

Excellence in Landscape awards program.

Since it’s inception, the ILCA awards program has honored members with specific awards for a variety for submitted projects. Over the years, the categories were expanded to include the size of the project. The next expansion was to include new categories such as Multifamily; Interior Landscape Installation; Specialty Category; and Public Works projects.

Through the years these catagories were condensed to the ones we recognize today: Residential Design and Maintenance; Commercial Design and Maintenance and an encompassing category for Specialty Elements and Events.

The fascinating aspect of the Awards program that many people don’t realize it is not a competition. Each project is judged independently on its own merit, not versus others in the category.

This year introduces the Platinum Awards for the projects that gather the highest point total in each category (providing there are a minimum of five entries).

Category winners this year were: Residential Maintenance — Hursthouse, Inc. - Nurturing a Poem Residential Construction — Topiarius - City Soirée Commercial Maintenance — Moore Landscape - 540 West Madison Specialty Element — Night Light, Inc. - Dusk Delight The second new category was Artistry and Craftsmanship with its focus on Fire. Overall, there were 10 entries. As the points were awarded across a variety of factors, two projects ended in a tie for first place. The two projects were: Topiarius — Game Day

ILT Vignocchi, Inc. — Itasca Property

Be inspired by your review of these award-winning projects.

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Topiarius Artistry & Craftsmanship Game Day 20

ILT Vignocchi, Inc. Artistry & Craftsmanship Itasca Property The Landscape Contractor March 2022

2022

Awards

Hursthouse, Inc. Residential Maintenance Nurturing a Poem

Moore Landscape, LLC Commercial Maintenance 540 West Madison

Topiarius Residential Construction City Soirée

Night Light, Inc. Specialty Element Dusk Delight The Landscape Contractor March 2022

21

Excellence In Landscape

Balanced Environments Commercial Maintenance Covenant Living of Northbrook

Bertog Landscape Company Residential Construction Lake House Retreat

Chalet Residential Construction Glenview Residence 22

Chalet Residential Construction Hyde Park Residence

Chalet Residential Maintenance Wilmette Residence

Chalet Residential Maintenance Winnetka Residence The Landscape Contractor March 2022

Gold Awards 2022

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2022

James Martin Associates Residential Maintenance Roberts Residence

Awards

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Hursthouse, Inc. Nurturing a Poem Residential Maintenance

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Marian Landscape Residential Construction Suburban Oasis

Moore Landscapes, LLC Commercial Maintenance Presidents Plaza The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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Excellence In Landscape 2022

Awards

Moore Landscapes, LLC Commercial Maintenance 540 West Madison

Night Light, Inc. Specialty Element Dark Secret Oasis

Premier Landscape Contractors Specialty Element Time to Celebrate

2022

Rosborough Partners, Inc. Residential Maintenance Timeless Elegance

Awards

Night Light, Inc. Specialty Element Dusk Delight 24

Rosborough Partners, Inc. Residential Construction The Rabbitry The Landscape Contractor March 2022

Gold Awards 2022

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Excellence In Landscape

A.M. Woodland Outdoor Design Residential Construction Cozy Cottage Getaway

AGS Landscape Co. Specialty Element Sip, Grill, and Chill

Grant & Power Landscaping Residential Construction Barrington Hills Residence

King’s Landscape Design Residential Construction Revitalized Residence

Nature’s Perspective Landscaping Davey Resource Group Residential Construction Ecological Planting An Urban Oasis Lake Barrington Shores Natural Area Management 2019 - 2023 The Landscape Contractor 26 March 2022

Silver Awards 2022

Nature’s Perspective Landscaping Residential Construction Ramped & Revamped Mid-Century Ranch

Premier Landscape Contractors Residential Construction Contemporary Split-Level

Premier Landscape Contractors Commercial Construction Outdoor Classroom

Premier Landscape Contractors Residential Maintenance Major Curb Appeal

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The Landscape Contractor 27 March 2022

Silver Awards 2022

Sunset Falls Ltd. Specialty Element Hillcroft Irish Gardens

Sunset Falls Ltd. Residential Construction Burr Ridge Retreat

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The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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Green View Companies Residential Construction Dace Residence

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Himsben Design Studio LLC + JR Landscaping Commercial Construction Community Health and Healing Garden 30

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Excellence In Landscape Awards

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Judges’ Award

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Hursthouse, Inc.

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The Landscape Contractor 33 March 2022

¡Una gran fiesta —All United—Todos Por Nina A. Koziol

A pesar del hastío del Covid,

los mandatos de uso de mascarilla, la fiebre de la cabaña y una tormenta de nieve el primer día de la feria que dejó cerca de un pie o más de nieve en algunos puntos, paisajistas, diseñadores, proveedores, contratistas, dueños, estudiantes y otros—de Illinois y varios estados circundantes—abarrotaron los salones de exposiciones, las sesiones educativas y los lugares de entretenimiento en la novena feria anual de iLandscape en Schaumburg el mes pasado.

La feria de este año atrajo alrededor de 5,000 personas, una cantidad asombrosa solo un 20 por ciento menor que la mayor asistencia a iLandscape hace dos años. “Esta audiencia deseaba que iLandscape tuviera un ambiente de normalidad con la misma energía que ha

34

tenido en el pasado”, dijo el Director Ejecutivo de ILCA Scott Grams. Si bien algunos asistentes potenciales manifestaron preocupación constante por el virus y otros expresaron frustración por los mandatos y los requisitos de mostrar comprobante de vacunación, el consenso de los presentes fue que nada supera tener otra vez la feria en persona.

Ente los pisos de exhibiciones, las sesiones educativas, los sorteos, la música en vivo (y quizá el bar), no hubo escasez de actividades. “Ver a nuestros colegas de la industria generó gran energía y entusiasmo”, dijo Kim Hartmann, Directora de la Junta de ILCA. A pesar de la nieve, “La asistencia a las sesiones educativas aumentó gradualmente durante el miércoles, fue comparable a los niveles de 2020 el jueves y

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

más que lo usual el viernes”, informó Hartmann.

Sesiones educativas

El evento de este año ofreció cerca de 50 sesiones educativas que cubrieron temas desde diseño, elementos sólidos de paisajismo y plantas hasta enfermedades e insectos, jardines públicos y una variedad de temas comerciales, como dotación de personal y satisfacción de los clientes. El Comité Latino y Americano de ILCA presentó una de los temas más destacados del programa, “Uniendo las culturas Latina y Americana en el lugar de trabajo”. Ofrecido cuatro veces durante la feria, los conferencistas, incluyendo el expresidente Jose Garcia, hablaron exclusivamente en español en salones abarrotados de personas.

Unidos!

Uniendo las culturas Latina y Americana en el lugar de trabajo Estas sesiones se concentrarán en comprender y apreciar las diferencias entre las culturas Latina y Americana. Una mejor comprensión reducirá los conflictos y conducirá a mayores oportunidades para la fuerza laboral latina y doméstica.

Esto dará como resultado más oportunidades de ascenso y una mayor retención de personal. Esta serie de presentaciones sin precedentes fue organizada por un equipo de trabajo de profesionales paisajistas latinos y americanos. Utilizarán sus investigaciones, experiencia profe-

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3535

sional e historias personales para transmitir esta información. El resultado final intentará acortar la brecha entre las dos culturas que engrandecen la industria paisajista.

Este programa se presentará totalmente en español. Se anima a los asistentes bilingües a asistir. Envíe a los miembros de su personal de campo, gerentes latinos, los que hablan inglés como segundo idioma y empleados bilingües a esta iLandscape. Esté atento a la presentación de este programa en inglés en fecha posterior.

Los asistentes no tienen que ir a las cuatro partes. Cada una está diseñada para proporcionar información valiosa individualmente, además de conjuntamente, como una serie.

Parte IV: Cómo lideramos Catalino Mendoza-Midwest Ground Covers Zully Arroyo-Conserve Perdido en la traducción: Las 5 cosas que los negocios deben comprender sobre la cultura latina, Bernie Carranza, Consultor.

Los empleados hispanohablantes y latinos representan más del 50% de la industria paisajista de Illinois. Acortar la distancia requiere de algo más que el idioma. Es una comprensión cultural que puede rendir grandes beneficios. Bernie habló sobre algunas de las mayores ideas erróneas acerca de trabajar con empleados latinos, dejándolo con una comprensión y apreciación renovada de nuestros compadres.

Marque su calendario

Parte I: Bernie Carranza-Consultor cultural Quiénes somos Introducción Valores e integración a una cultura cambiante Libertad personal El valor de la educación y la capacitación Parte II: Cómo pensamos Catalino Mendoza-Midwest Ground Covers

Parte III:

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Jose Garcia-Natural Creations Landscaping

Cómo trabajamos

Debbie Bartsch-Chalet Landscape 36

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

Marque su calendario para la feria del próximo año— Del 1 al 3 de febrero en el Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center. “Nunca dejamos de planear—2023 marcará 10 años de iLandscape y queremos tener una fiesta de aniversario para recordarlo”, dijo Grams. “Este evento fue diseñado como una recompense a una industria que ha trabajado arduamente durante los últimos 24 meses. Cada año aprendemos cómo realizar esta feria un poco mejor. Por consiguiente, abróchese el cinturón porque espero que 2023 sea la feria más grande e impresionante que hayamos producido”.

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Pretty, Hardy, Prolific Plants for Urban Sites

by Heather Prince

Urban conditions can be tough places to

grow plants. Street medians, parking lots, former industrial sites, rooftops, and those hellstrips between driveways and sidewalks can be some of the most challenging soils. We talked to plantsman and author Kelly Norris for ideas of Midwest natives that offer beautiful flowers for both clients and pollinators. These plants not only survive, but thrive in sand, gravel, and heavy clay.

“There is a louder call for an ecology to horticulture beyond its ornament or aesthetic,” said Norris. “These are plants that offer a wide range of ecosystem services.” We have opportunities to make plant choices that are not only lovely, but store carbon, ameliorate stormwater, prevent erosion, and support a wide range of invertebrate life. Consider the cottagecore trend. “There’s a blowsy effortlessness to

38

these plants that is casual and undone in a way that’s fashionable right now,” observed Norris. As landscape professionals, consider these species valuable additions to the toolbox as you plan urban installations that demand toughness and beauty.

Antennaria plantaginifolia or pussytoes Size: 4 to 6 inches high and slowly spreading Light: full sun to light shade Soil: lean, gritty, dry, gravelly, well-drained Flower: tiny clusters on slender stalks of pink-tinged, silvery, fuzzy flower heads from April to June reminiscent of their common name Foliage: soft, silvery, velvet basal rosettes of leaves Notes: Pussy toes can be an ideal groundcover along the (continued on page 40)

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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Focus — Interesting Plant Choices (continued from page 38) edges of a sunny drive or path where soil is gravelly. “A. plantaginifolia has the largest leaf of the species found in the Midwest,” observed Norris. “You can find it anywhere from gravelly sites to old cemeteries. It’s quite effective in our meadow to hold the ground layer and tolerates some shading from taller plants. It’s perfect in a gravel garden or as a pathway filler. It’s a good grout between the tiles kind of plant and a great companion for small late-blooming daffodils as well. They should be standard operating procedure for roof palettes as they like it lean and mean.”

Arnoglossum atriplicifolium or pale Indian plantain Size: 3 to 6 feet high and about 2 feet wide Light: full sun to light shade Soil: average, moist, and somewhat drought-tolerant once established Flower: large clusters of silvery white panicles atop tall stiff stems in July through August

40

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

Foliage: thick, leathery, coarsely lobed and toothed in a basal rosette Notes: Pale Indian plantain is a weaver plant that blends into naturalistic plantings and catches the light in late summer. “It’s a mood plant, a character piece,” commented Norris. “It’s never the star of the show but has witty repartee that keeps the garden going at a certain point late in the summer. The (continued on page 42)

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Focus — Interesting Plant Choices (continued from page 40) foliage color varies from a blue green to almost an ochre color. It has such a range of adaptability and really loves clay, is fond of wet and can take some dryness. We often see sparrows, chickadees and migratory birds foraging on their abundant seeds in the fall.”

Bouteloua curtipendula or side oats grama Size: 18 to 24 inches high and wide Light: full sun Soil: average to dry, tolerating sand to heavy clay Flower: loose, purple-tinged fringy flowers with showy anthers in July through August Foliage: a range of soft grey to blue green leaves that turn golden brown in fall with hues of orange Notes: This smaller native grass is lovely for weaving into plantings where competition will hold its tendency to seed in check. “It’s extremely adaptable,” said Norris. “The seed strain ‘Trailway’ has

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The Landscape Contractor March 2022

thrived on our heavy clay. It’s just SO tough – sand, gravel, clay, and loam all work, but clay limits its reseeding. What I like about ‘Trailway’ is its blond seeds, culms, and winter color. It holds its form long into the winter. It’s very charming and has a lot of character to it. It’s versatility and adaptability are perfect for medians, hell strips, and parking lots. It’s not too tall, so it can weave in very well.” (continued on page 44)

Focus — Interesting Plant Choices (continued from page 42) Coreopsis tinctoria or plains coreopsis Size: 18 to 24 inches high and wide Light: full sun to light shade Soil: dry, loam, clay, gravel, with decent drainage Flower: cheerful yellow flowers with a large crimson center that bloom June to September Foliage: fine, airy, needle-like leaves Notes: This free-seeding annual pumps out wave after wave of pollinator-pleasing flowers all summer. “For designers looking to stock the tank with early color in season one and season two of a project, we should use more options than Rudbeckia hirta,” commented Norris.

“It’s a fine plant, but there are others like C. tinctoria that provide fast, cheap, and easy color that will fade out in year four when the other grasses and forbs have established. It is a dry-side species.

It thrives in open and exposed situations.

It offers a plenty of nectar and pollen for pollinators in late June and it just keeps going through summer.”

ing wine-red in fall Notes: An easy-going dogwood that can be pruned into a hedge or left soft and rounded, pollinators visit the flowers and birds devour the berries. “It’s one of those common as dirt plants in the wild and was once common in the trade,” observed Norris. “It has wonderful fall color, like a glass of good cabernet. It’s tremendous in a mixed hedgerow. Gray dogwood is tough, versatile, and takes wet or dry. You can prune them into a formal hedge or let them go.” (continued on page 46)

Cornus racemosa or gray dogwood Size: has the potential to reach about 10 feet, but most are pruned shorter Light: full sun to part shade Soil: moist, well-drained, but tolerant of wet and dry soils and pollution Flower: clusters of white flowers in May followed by white berries Foliage: touches of red in new foliage that becomes mid-green in season before turn-

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The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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Focus — Interesting Plant Choices Helianthus occidentalis, H. pauciflorus or sunflower Size: 2 to 4 feet high and 1 to 2 feet wide Light: full sun Soil: average to dry soils, but tolerant of gravel, clay, and sand Flower: large showy yellow daisy flowers on tall stems in August to September Foliage: lanceolate leaves scattered up stiff stems Notes: These prairie sunflowers are magical with tall grasses, coneflowers, and asters for an easy, breezy naturalistic feel. “Yes, they are highly competitive plants, but that’s a feature to be accounted for,” commented Norris.

“H. pauciflorus is better behaved in drier circumstances but tolerates mesic circumstances, too. It often blooms as a single flower per stem. Great companion to little bluestem. H. occidentalis has a lovely rosette of foliage and then sends up tall, elegant flower stems. In the wild, it’s found in dry circumstances, but it’s very amendable to heavy clay. They are major goldfinch food in the fall.”

(continued from page 44) Erigeron annuus or annual fleabane Size: 2 to 3 feet high and 1 to 2 feet wide Light: full sun to part shade Soil: moist to average soils, but tolerant of clay and gravel Flower: small bright white delicate daisy flowers with yellow centers from June into September Foliage: green lanceolate leaves on upright stems Notes: This is a free-seeding annual to biennial. Oftentimes fleabane finds its way into the garden but is beloved by pollinators and can easily fill tough spaces. “I love Erigerons and I always have,” said Norris. “It’s so wonderful and the Europeans have caught on to it as a great filler plant. It’s humble and thus doesn’t rise to people’s radar.

When people see it in the garden, though, they point it out. When seen in a different context, it becomes quite frothy and pretty and lovely. It’s definitely a plant to reframe and recognize it for its usefulness.”

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The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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Muhlenbergia cuspidata or prairie satin grass Size: 18 to 24 inches high and wide Light: full sun to light shade Soil: dry, well-drained, rocky, clay-tolerant Flower: pale-green to silver in August to September Foliage: thin green blades that become gold in the fall Notes: A soft, delicate grass for weaving throughout a naturalistic planting or to balance coarser ornamentals, this prairie grass is tough as nails. “This is one of those future urban plants that we really should be looking at,” said Norris. “We grow it in a galvanized trough which freezes like an ice cube tray every year and the satin grass handles it. It should be used more in tough sites like roofs. Prairie satin grass has a green tinsel effect that becomes a golden blond fall color like flaxen hair, it’s just stunning.”

Oenothera rhombipetala or fourpoint evening primrose Size: 1 to 3 feet high and wide Light: full sun Soil: average to dry and adaptable Flower: large showy clusters of lemon-yellow flowers in July through September Foliage: soft, wavy, narrow leaves Notes: This evening primrose is particularly sought after by native bees. “This is a biennial and one of the showier Oenotheras. O. rhombipetala is adapted to sand and gravelly conditions,” observed Norris. “It has a rhomboid inflorescence and sometimes called the diamond-petal evening primrose.

They have a very regal and stately presentation. It requires two seasons worth of planning, but once established will reseed and offer plenty of nectar for pollinators.”

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Choices Salix humilis or prairie willow Size: 2 to 8 feet high and wide Light: full sun to part shade Soil: average to moist soils and drought-tolerant Flower: fuzzy catkins early in spring Foliage: soft, light green foliage Notes: Native willows are top-notch pollinator plants for the large number of species that claim them as a larval host.

“Love, love, love!” commented Norris. “Incredible prairie shrub in drier, mesic conditions. We’re working on selections that are three to four feet high and wide. Beautiful gold fall color, silvery green rosemary-like textures in the foliage.

Very early to bloom in the spring with the classic fuzzy bunny buds. We’re working on one with yellow bark and pinkish flower buds. It would be a terrific plant for medians for its toughness and texture.”

Solidago nemoralis or old field goldenrod Size: 18 to 24 inches high and wide Light: full sun to light shade Soil: lean, gritty, dry, gravelly, well-drained Flower: large showy wands of clustered tiny yellow flowers in August to September Foliage: unbranched, gray-green stems with narrow lanceolate leaves Notes: Goldenrods are nectar plants for late-season pollinators and particularly beneficial for butterflies as a last stop before migration or hibernation. “It’s one of the wand-form goldenrods that can weave through a planting,” said Norris.

“In a meadow setting they look very much at home. Broadly adapted to clay, loam, or sand. It’s a great goldenrod that is not on enough people’s radars.”

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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Horizon Line Lawn Care LLC Evan Duffy 1210 Keim Trail Saint Charles, IL 60174 Email: horizonlinelawncare@gmail.com Phone: 630-394-4239 horizonlinelawncare.com Horizon Line Lawn Care specializes in residential and commercial lawn care and landscape installation and maintenance.

We can be described as professional, dependable, and trustworthy. Our biggest goal is creating and maintaining landscapes with results that make our customers truly happy.

Horticulturists, Master Gardeners, Stone Artisans and Arborists. We have been creating and maintaining gardenscapes of all types since 1938 out of our family-owned and operated garden center located in Palatine, IL. However, we closed our greenhouses in 2020 and have gone mobile! Kinsch Design takes an analytical, creative, and unique approach with each project. We have taken clients from the initial planning phase to maintaining our award winning gardens after installation! Each project is designed for the novice to the expert gardener.

Kinsch Design, LLC Diane Kinsch 2603 NORTH LN Cary, IL 60013 Email: dmkinsch@comcast.net Phone: 630-338-7951 www.kinschdesign.com Welcome to Kinsch Design, LLC! Our team, and partners, comprise of experienced Landscape Designers,

Ruizscape Construction Juan M Ruiz Sr 43W471 Bahr Road Hampshire, IL 60140 Email: juan@ruizscape.com Phone: 224-623-0323 Landscaping Subcontractor for Government Contracts

SUMMER A complete line of cool hardy annuals and fresh branches for your inspired spring designs.

A diverse selection of summer annuals, foliage, blooming tropicals and colorful hanging baskets.

SPRING www.clesen.com 50

847-869-2257 The Landscape Contractor March 2022

Artificial Grass & Turf Accessory Superstore “ We specialize in all types of premium artificial grass, high performance infill and related installation accessories. Call anytime, we’re happy to help!” - The ChiTurf Team 4042 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL. 60653 | info@chiturf.com | 630.805.3800 7328 Calumet Ave. Hammond, IN. 46324 | contact@indianaturfcompany.com | 219.613.8786 The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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New Members — Serna’s Group, Corp.

Juan Serna Carol Stream, IL 60188 Email: js@sernascorp.com Phone: 630-333-2426 Since our founding, Serna’s Group, Corp. has delivered proper landscape & hardscape design and maintenance to ensure we deliver a visuallypleasing, aesthetic environment for all homeowners and associations we work with, without sacrificing the health and quality of the landscape. We pride ourselves in working first-hand with our clients to satisfy their landscape and hardscape needs, while providing topgrade, professional care.

The Riedell Group LLC Jessica Riedell 539 W. Liberty St. #717 Wauconda, IL 60084 Email: jessica@riedellgroup.com Phone: 847-343-1340 www.riedellgroup.com We provide services for our customers who wish to have an aesthetically

pleasing landscape at a competitive price with the knowledge and experience of the team that maintains it. We provide education about our services and about the best horticulture practices. We embrace creativity and new technology while managing landscapes in a sustainable manner.

Wheaton, IL 60187 Email: rosemariesgardens@yahoo.com Phone: 630-640-5483 rosemariesgardens.wixsite.com/home Rosemarie’s Gardens is an independent garden designer and consultant who uses her love of plants to create sustainable gardens for her clients.

Timber Ridge Property Solutions, LLC Tyler Rau 211 Winslow Way Lake in the Hills, IL 60156 Email: tyler@timberridgeps.com Phone: 224-523-3018 timberridgeps.com Timber Ridge Property Solutions is a leading lawn maintenance and snow management company serving areas across McHenry County, Illinois.

Terra Garden Design Amy Taylor Lake Forest, IL 60045 Email: amy@terra-gardens.com Phone: 847-921-8148

INDIVIDUALS Rosemarie’s Gardens Rosemarie Freeman 1022 North Path

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE/ DESIGN FIRMS MBH Garden Design, LLC Mary Hickey 740 Sheridan Rd Winnetka, IL 60093 Email: hickeyalbc@comcast.net Phone: 847-757-6989 Patino’s Landscaping Service, Inc. Salomon Patino

Booth 1413 We specialize in working with LCO’s to maximize your profitability while helping provide your clientele with excellent turf conditions ///

Work with our team of experts to develop treatment options for healthy trees ///

Your one stop shop for the most diverse selection of landscape and lawn care specific products ///

Rock Salt & Ice Melter where and when you need it. You can count on us from the first snowfall to the last of the season ///

North Chicago 635 Margate Drive Lincolnshire, IL 60069 (847) 537-2177

South Chicago 9710 W. 194th St Mokena, IL 60448 (708) 444-2177

Milwaukee 13125 Washington Drive Germantown, WI 53022 (262) 703-0032

clesens.com 52

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

2239 N Charter Point Dr Arlington Heights, IL 60004 Email: patinoslands@gmail.com Phone: 708-372-3973 The Roof Crop 1516 W Carroll Ave Chicago, IL 60607 Email: accounts@theroofcrop.com Phone: 312-690-7048 theroofcrop.com The Roof Crop builds and maintains green roofs and productive landscapes.

We grow flowers, edible flowers, produce, grains, and natural dyes in any farmable growing media on roofs and on grade. Suitable for amenity decks, private residences, and large-scale developments, TRC maintenance plans and partnerships provide a more robust experience for the same or less money than traditional contracts.

OUT-OF-STATE Midwest Landscape Industries, Inc. Stephen Hastings 6800 EAST 30TH STREET Indianapolis, IN 46219 Email: shastings@mli-in.com Phone: 317-379-6980 Serviscape, LLC Laurie Wadsworth 711 IN-212 Michigan City, IN 46360 Email: laurie@getserviscape.com Phone: 219-872-9412 SUPPLIERS Prism Sales Midwest Kristin Watkins 2541 Little Rock Rd Plano, IL 60545 Email: kristin@prismsalesmidwest.com Phone: 630-849-8855

Valley Insurance Group Jay Hopkins 1823 Centre Pointe Cir, STE 101 Naperville, IL 60563 Email: jayhop23@gmail.com Phone: 773-410-3911 valley78.com Commercial Insurance Executive specializing in Illinois Landscaping Companies and their success. Focused on developing safety programs, correct property and equipment values, General Liability Issues and Workers’ Compensation. I have a passion for the landscaping business and the inherent needs of business owners and their companies.

The Integra Group - BOSS Tina Shaw 714 Spirit 40 Park Drive Suite 150 Chesterfield, MO 63005 Email: tina.shaw@bosslm.com Phone: 847-207-3587 www.bosslm.com The Landscape Contractor March 2022

Vectorworks, Inc. Jennifer Niziolek 7150 Riverwood Drive Columbia, MD 21046 Email: jniziolek@vectorworks.net Phone: 443-542-0434 www.vectorworks.net Transform your design, modeling and presentation workflows with Vectorworks Landmark, the industryleading landscape-focused BIM software solution made specifically for landscape architects and designers. With intelligent objects, powerful databases and flexible documentation features, Landmark streamlines integrated 2D and 3D landscape-specific BIM workflows all in one application. The purpose-built tools for landscape design included in Vectorworks Landmark 2022 make it simpler to produce landscape BIM models, support the demand to create sustainable sites, and create tight integrations between landscape BIM and GIS workflows. Wherever your ideas take you, you’ll get there faster with Vectorworks 2022.

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New Member Profile Snapshot

Erickson Landscaping Inc. Seneca, IL 61360 (815) 343-7868 merickson3087@hotmail.com

by Meta Levin

Matt Erickson was drawn to the green industry

by the opportunity to be outdoors. As a child he was fascinated by the landscaping he saw through car windows as his mother drove through neighboring subdivisions. By age 10 or 11, he was taking over some of his older brothers’ mowing jobs and after high school graduation he earned an AAS in horticulture at Joliet Junior College, where he also studied landscape design.

He took several landscape jobs, first at That Perennial Place in Morris, IL, then at the Oswego branch of Green View Landscape, all the while dreaming of starting his own landscape contracting firm. In 2006 he did start his own business, which he ran until 2014. By then, he described himself as “burned out” and went to work for Premier Landscape in Lemont, IL as a foreman and project manager.

The entrepreneur bug was still gnawing at him and, within a few years, he restarted Erickson Landscaping, Inc. in his hometown of Seneca, IL. “I owe a lot of gratitude to the companies where I worked, but the more I thought about it, this is where I belong,” he says.

A design/build company that specializes in hardscapes, planting beds, landscape lighting and drainage, Erickson Landscaping, Inc. focuses on hardscapes, including patios, walkways and accent walls. “I love natural stone and working with it,” says Erickson. “I’m drawn to its timeless beauty and I’m a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright.”

In fact, Erickson often uses his favorite Wright quotes when talking with customers – especially “Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.” That, he says, sums up his attitude toward what he does.

Erickson learns from his experiences. He especially points to his view that “less is more.” A few years ago, he did a job for a friend. As they surveyed the work they had done, his friend asked if they should add to it. No, Erickson says he realized, just providing more lawn and some plantings would 54

be enough. Keep it simple. “We made a big impact with fewer materials,” he says.

But, he stresses, it’s important that whatever he does, no matter how small and simple, must be of high quality.

“I preach quality over everything else,” he says. Recently, a client wanted to pay him before the job was finished. No, Erickson told him, let me get everything just right first. And that is what he did.

It was the drive toward doing the best job possible that attracted him to ILCA. “It has been of tremendous value to me,” he says. Other companies for which he had worked had been ILCA members, but this fall was the first time he had joined himself. “Ever since I became a member, it felt like I was somebody in the industry,” Erickson says. That started with the Welcome Packet and has continued as he has learned more about the association.

A homebody on the weekend, Erickson likes to relax by socializing over a beer with neighbors. He’s also a fan of the History and Science channels and loves to go fishing. In the warmer weather, he covers first base in a men’s adult baseball league.

Although he is a bachelor, he loves to interact with his 14 nieces and nephews, ranging in age from 10 to 24, most of whom live nearby. “They are an active bunch,” he says.

But he is happiest when working on the job and keeps in mind another quote from Frank Lloyd Wright, which, he says, guides him: “An architect’s most useful tools are an eraser at the drafting board, and a wrecking bar at the site.”

Like Wright, Erickson says that he dislikes sloppy workmanship.

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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Classified Ads HELP WANTED Project Manager NU Construction/ Enhancements Christy Webber Landscapes is a full-service landscape provider offering design, construction, and maintenance programs to residential, commercial, and municipal clients throughout Chicago.

Through proper project management, the Project Manager serves as the vital link between CWL’s high-profile enhancement clientele and the Company to ensure that client expectations regarding quality and service are consistently met and exceeded for the entire lifespan of projects, this includes but is not limited to installation, sales and estimating, project costing, billing, procurement, and employee management.

Please email your resume to jobs@christywebber.com Designer Level 1 Christy Webber is a full-service landscape provider offering design, construction, and maintenance programs to resident, commercial and municipal clients throughout Chicago.

Complete and oversee a variety of professional residential landscape design assignments. Help develop the Christy Webber Landscapes company image and develop and implement landscape plans that meet the client’s need that meets client needs.

Please email your portfolio and resume to jobs@christywebber.com

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Landscape Maintenance Manager

Junior Estimator

Tentinger Landscapes, a leader in the residential Landscape Design, Build, and Maintenance industry in the western suburbs of Chicago has an immediate opening for an experienced Landscape Maintenance Manager. Based in Maple Park, Illinois, this person will be directly in charge of managing, growing, and developing our Landscape Maintenance division. This position is responsible for selling Tentinger’s services in an affluent, high-profile market by providing detailed maintenance programs, horticultural recommendations, creative designs, and proposals.

Christy Webber Landscapes is a fill-service landscape provider offering design, construction, and maintenance programs to residential, commercial, and municipal clients throughout Chicago.

Junior Estimator will be responsible for a variety of duties focusing on bidding and proposal generation for commercial landscapes construction projects. These areas of focus will include downloading document, analyzing plans and specifications, performing take-offs, composing emails and correspondence, field site visits, spreadsheets, database work entry, review and corrections.

This position requires a minimum of 2 years of residential client service and sales experience. The ideal candidate will possess a thorough knowledge of landscape maintenance, horticulture, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to manage client expectations.

Knowledge of computer-based client management programs is required.

This full-time salaried position offers competitive wages, incentive plan, comprehensive benefits, and a spectacular culture that promotes growth, learning, experience, and employee satisfaction!

Send resume to jobs@christywebber.com

Please call 630.913.5100 or email your resume and cover letter outlining your salary expectations to: Zack Tentinger President E-mail: zack@tentinger.co Website: www.tentinger.co

Project Manager Construction Christy Webber Landscapes is a fill-service landscape provider offering design, construction, and maintenance programs to residential, commercial, and municipal clients throughout Chicago.

The Project Manager serves as the vital link between CWL’s high-profile enhancement clientele and the Company to ensure that client expectations regarding quality and service are consistently met and exceeded for the entire lifespan of projects; this includes but is not limited to installation, sales and estimating, project costing, billing, procurement, and employee management.

Please send your resume to jobs@christywebber.com

Residential Maintenance Account Manager Commercial Maintenance Account Manager Landscape Designer/Project Director Management Associate Call Maria for more information at (847) 876-8042 Or visit jamesmartinassociates.com/careers 56

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

jamesmartinassociates.com | (847) 634-1660

Classified Ads HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Landscape Designer/Architect

different groundcover varieties; over 240 species of local ecotype native plants identified as Natural Garden Natives®; 140 regional Midwest native species of which some are naturally occurring selections; more than 500 varieties of perennials and ornamental grasses; and over 275 varieties of deciduous shrubs, native shrubs, broadleaf evergreens, hardy shrub roses, conifers, and vines.

construction, this is primarily high-end residential landscape construction in the western suburbs.

Kemora Landscapes is a residentially focused landscape design-build firm looking to expand our design department. We are a team of four full time designers looking to add to our fun-loving work environment. While designers work independently, we believe in the creative process and will occasionally collaborate as a team to come up with creative solutions.

We are looking to add both experienced and entry-level designers to design, sell, and navigate the customer experience through the build process. The ideal applicant can balance design creativity with rational problem solving skills and is familiar with the requirements of working in a busy seasonal industry.

We are specifically looking for applicants with some or all of the following skills: Experience or interest in designing urban spaces Creative problem solving to create unique living spaces Proficient in creating scaled layouts in CAD, SketchUp, or by hand Comfort with sales Extensive knowledge of Zones 5 and 6 plant material Ability to work independently and manage work flow Personal transportation required as this is part office/part field position Benefits Include competitive salary plus commission, health insurance, retirement contribution, paid vacation and reduced winter hours, and gas reimbursement.

Please visit our website for more information or submit resumes/portfolios to info@ kemoralandscapes.com.

Sales Yard Operations Manager Midwest Groundcovers, LLC, is an industry leader in the propagation, growing and wholesale distribution of quality container nursery stock. We operate over 700 acres of state-of-the-art nursery production facilities at five locations in St. Charles, IL; Virgil, IL; and Glenn, MI. Each year, these nurseries produce millions of container plants, including more than 130

We have a Sales Yard Operations Manager position open and are looking for someone who has excellent external and internal customer service can supervise, motivate and train the sales yard and order fulfillment teams and oversee operations to meet customer expectations and the sales goals for Midwest Groundcovers and Midwest Trading. As well as contribute to the success of the companies while achieving one’s personal and professional goals in the process.

Visit our website to apply directly www.midwestgroundcovers.com.

Salesperson Irrigation Company looking to hire salesperson for commercial projects. Must have experience in irrigation or landscape industry. Wages based on experience.

Submit resume to Aqua Designs Inc at info@ aquadesignsinc.com or call 815-725-2460.

Service Manager Irrigation Company in Rockdale looking to hire person to schedule service routes.

Ability to use computer software for scheduling, good typing and phone skills a must.

Experience helpful but willing to train the right candidate. Email resume to info@aquadesignsinc.com or call 815-7252460 Landscape Construction Project Manager Green Grass Landscape has an awesome opportunity for an experienced Landscape Construction Project Manager.

What we are looking for: Someone wired for this role, you love landscape construction.

Ability to work with and manage 3-4 construction crews at a time.

Plan your day, you are proactive not reactive.

Own the customer. Our designers create a plan to the customers liking, then the ball is in your court to install it, so it is a great experience for you, the crew, and the client (P.S. We have a process, we will train you on it).

The above is only half of what we look at. The other half is a great attitude. Our employees and customers have to work with you, we want to work with good people (and you should too).

Why is this a good option for you: Our company is growing, you can grow with it.

We do good work and have a great reputation. This gives a sense of pride; you should be proud of where you work.

Good salary plus a “Do More, Get More” bonus program, so if you are crushing it, you will be compensated.

Your base is based on working 5 days a week. You have the choice to work 6 days a week only if you want to and we will pay you additional for it.

We do snow in the winter, but you don’t have to. But if you want to, you will be compensated for it.

Medical insurance, dental insurance, 401(k) with 4% company match, and paid time-off.

If the above sounds interesting to you, please send your resume to patcronin@greengrasslandscape.com, and I will be in touch.

PLEASE NOTE: “HELP WANTED” AD SALES ARE LIMITED TO ILCA MEMBER COMPANIES Submit your ads online at ilca.net or call Alycia Nagy (630) 472-2851

Experience with all aspects of landscape

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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Classified Ads HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Landscape Architect/Designer

Red Spade Environments Seeking Project Manager

This is a full time position that offers a competitive salary, sales incentives and retirement plan.

Please email your resume to shellyt@hartmanlandscape.net www.hartmanlandscape.net

Green Grass Landscape has an awesome opportunity for an experienced Landscape Architect/Designer.

What we are looking for: Someone wired for this role, you love meeting with homeowners and helping them create and have an enjoyable outdoor space.

Experience with all aspects of landscape design and sales. From the initial lead, concept, final design, estimate, proposal, and job package to hand off to the production team.

This is primarily high-end residential landscape construction in the western suburbs.

Plan your day, you are proactive not reactive.

Own the customer. Initially the customer is all yours as you create a plan to their liking and make it a great experience for the customer and yourself (P.S. We have a process, we will train you on it). When all the details are finalized and the contract is signed, you will pass all the information to Production, then the ball is in their court.

The above is only half of what we look at. The other half is a great attitude. Our employees and customers have to work with you, we want to work with good people (and you should too).

Why is this a good option for you: Our company is growing, you can grow with it.

We do good work and have a great reputation. This gives a sense of pride; you should be proud of where you work.

Good salary plus a “Do More, Get More” bonus program, so if you are crushing it, you will be compensated.

We do snow in the winter, but you don’t have to. But if you want to, you will be compensated for it.

Medical insurance, dental insurance, 401(k) with 4% company match, and paid time-off.

If the above sounds interesting to you, please send your resume to jeffjohnson@greengrasslandscape.com, and I will be in touch.

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Red Spade Environments, a landscape design-build consultancy and division of the The Lakota Group, Inc. is looking to expand our team of professionals. We are a unique, lateral thinking and solutions-based creative organization seeking candidates with similar traits. Red Spade creates custom outdoor environments which build long-lasting value for customers in both the city of Chicago and northern suburbs. Our brand continues to expand based upon our reputation for providing a high level of detail, quality, and service.

Red Spade is currently seeking a Project Manager who will support our Director of Field Operations and play a key role in managing our rapidly growing portfolio of high-end residential landscape clients in a full-time, year-round position. This role will require focused oversight and contractor coordination of both small and large-scale projects.

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 3-5 years of progressive experience in residential or commercial landscape construction services and have held a project, or staff managerial position during that time. While not required, a degree in landscape architecture, horticulture, construction/building management or a related field is desired.

For the full position description, follow the link below and send resumes to jobs.redspadeenvironments@gmail.com, Attn: Human Resources. https://www.linkedin.com/feed/ update/urn:li:activity:6889230274798985216 Landscaping Professionals BrightView Landscaping! Where your life gets a lot brighter! We are seeking irrigation techs /managers, crew members, forman and crew leaders.

Jobs.brightview.com Maintenance Account Manager Hartman Landscape is an award winning landscape and maintenance company in the south suburbs. We are looking for a highly detailed individual with a minimum of 3 years experience.

This person will be responsible for securing new maintenance and snow removal contracts, managing existing clients, crew quality control and selling enhancement work.

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

Account Manager The qualified candidates would be responsible for managing a portfolio of landscape maintenance and snow contracts, profitability, and renewal of assigned contracts through effective management. *Develop relationships with the clients and team members to renew contracts and foster a long-term partnership with clients.

•Manage clients’ expectations and understand their needs daily while having the foresight to identify client needs for multiple years.

•Site reviews – review site conditions to formulate additional enhancement opportunities.

Qualifications. 3 yrs landscape site management to include management of crews and assets.

Apply online www.landscapeconcepts.com Horticulturist/Customer Service Associate About us For over four generations the Fiore family has been providing quality plant material to the Chicagoland area and across the country.

You can be a part of a close-knit team that works together to ultimately enhance outdoor spaces and the environment altogether, no matter the position in the company!

Job Summary: Participates in the following Customer Service-related activities: • Service “house accounts” via walk in, phone, and email.

• Help fulfill customer orders and transactions.

• Help resolve customer issues.

• Manage and support designated customer accounts.

• Ensure customer experience is positive.

• Offer and share product and industry knowledge and expertise with all customers and colleagues.

• Assist in customer plant tagging and selection.

• Participate in industry trade shows and networking events.

• Participate in the sourcing and procurement of customer product needs.

Salaried Full Time Position $45,000.00 - $58,000.00 per year. Generous Benefit Package offered Email: FioreHR@cjfiore.com

Classified Ads HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Hiring Landscape Technician

Irrigation Technician

Commercial Landscape Estimator

CSG is an award-winning design and build firm that specializes in rooftop gardens. Our company vision is to be the premier fullservice urban garden design/build firm in Chicago, and to operate with integrity and respect toward our employees, clients, suppliers and the natural environment. We are expanding our team and looking for a hardworking, self-motivated individual, who prioritizes attention to detail and quality control.

King’s Landscape Design, located in the South Western Suburbs, is looking to hire an experienced Landscape Irrigation Technician.

The ideal candidate would be able to perform the following: - Sprinkler turn-on, and winterizations - Repair irrigation systems (i.e. broken sprinkler heads, leaks, valves, wiring) - Monitor and adjust sprinkler watering -Knowledge of landscape lighting would be a plus!

Minimum qualifications include: • 3 years’ experience • A valid driver’s license & good driving record • Must be seeking long term employment • Must be able to speak English.

Interested parties please contact: Adam King aking@kingslandscaping.com 630-408-4527 www.kingslandscaping.com

Responsibilities: • Reading plans and specifications to determine scope of work • Perform accurate material, equipment and labor take-offs • Solicit sub & supplier pricing and estimate volume of work • Prepare timely estimates and meet bid deadlines • Review contract documents upon award • Communications with clients, project architects, subcontractors, etc.

• Project billing and cost evaluation Qualifications: • Excellent communications, computer and math skills

Job Description The seasonal maintenance technician will aid in the care and upkeep of CSG’s client’s landscapes and rooftop gardens. They will coordinate with the Lead Landscape Technician and crew members throughout the season to provide a high level of professional services.

Responsibilities: • General Landscaping: light pruning, blowing out and collecting leaves and debris, refreshing mulch, fertilizing, etc.

• Power washing & oiling/staining of wood elements • Assistance with annual installations Requirements: Strives to improve job skills and develop the potential for upward mobility - Must be able to comfortably lift 50 lbs. - Driver’s License required - At least part time availability (25 HR minimum) Wages starting at $15/Hr. Final offer based on industry experience and knowledge.

Benefits also available. Season is roughly from Mid-March to Christmas Email jaclyn@chicagogardens.com to apply,.

Outside Sales Rep. - Goodmark Nurseries Servicing existing customers, developing new sales opportunities, and investigating new revenue streams.

Must have: o 1-3 year’s previous sales experience. o Horticultural and plant identification knowledge required. o Bachelor’s degree preferred. o Bilingual Spanish preferred. o Must be proficient in computer use.

Please contact Irvin Melchor via email irvin.melchor@goodmarknurseries.com

Email resume and cover letter to accounting@allied-landscaping.com

Landscape Architect / Designer King’s Landscape Design has been a staple in the South-Western suburbs since 1959. We are an award winning Design / Build residential firm that provides high quality, unique landscapes. We are looking to add another talented Landscape Architect to our team.

If you are skilled in residential design, are self-motivated, and focused on exceptional customer service and quality, we would like to meet you.

Requirements: - A 4-year degree in Landscape Design and/ or Landscape Architecture - A minimum of 3 years professional work experience (preferred, but not required) - Strong plant and construction knowledge - Driver’s license and good driving record - Professional appearance and demeanor - Proficiency in Dynascape a plus.

Ideal candidates will be detail orientated, conscientious, professional and most importantly, maintain a high level of honesty and integrity. King’s is a relaxed work environment, although seasonally hectic, with competitive salary and benefits package including vehicle during work, insurance, 401k, generous vacation allowance and reduced winter hours.

Interested parties please contact: Mark King mking@kingslandscaping.com 630-417-5191 www.kingslandscaping.com

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

CLASSIFIED ADS CLOSING DATES & RATES April 2022 issue ads: March 15, 2022 May 2022 issue ads: April 15, 2022 PLEASE NOTE: “HELP WANTED” AD SALES ARE LIMITED TO ILCA MEMBER COMPANIES Magazine Cost is $5 per line Minimum charge $50 Website Cost is $12 per line Minimum charge $120 (About 6 words/line) Submit your ads online at ilca.net or Call Alycia Nagy (630) 472-2851

PLEASE NOTE: “HELP WANTED” AD SALES ARE LIMITED TO ILCA MEMBER COMPANIES Submit your ads online at ilca.net or call Alycia Nagy (630) 472-2851

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Classified Ads Garden Center/Nursery Manager

Landscape Crew Supervisor

Green Goods Logistics Manager

Qualifications: • 4 years minimum management experience.

• Demonstrated knowledge of retail metrics, consumer, and product trends.

• Excellent interpersonal and relationship building skills to develop strong partnerships with store personnel, vendors, and corporate staff.

• Excellent computer efficiency in Microsoft office, inventory, and POS software • Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently with excellent organizational skills.

We seek an experienced Landscape Crew Supervisor to join us at our third generation, family-owned company in North Chicago, IL (near Gurnee). In this role, you will oversee all aspects of residential maintenance job sites and ensure optimal performance and safety of your crew members. Experience in landscape construction, site and crew supervision, and strong plant identification is a must. This full-time, year-round position offers a robust benefits and compensation package including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurances, FSA, paid time off, holidays, and 401(k) with match. If you’re a customer-focused, pro-active team player consider joining us!

Chalet’s Material Handling Division which serves our landscape, retail, and growing operation has an opportunity for a Green Goods Logistics Manager to join our team in North Chicago, IL (near Gurnee). You’d be responsible for plant material from the moment it arrives on our property until it heads out to be installed at a customers’ property or sold in retail. Managing a team of up to 25 employees in the season, training on safe operation of yard equipment and care of plant material, inspecting plants, maintaining quality standards, as well as planning the logistics of picking, pulling and loading are a few of the core responsibilities. This is a full-time year-round opportunity with a very competitive salary and full benefits offering.

If your passion for all things green balances with the desire to organize and plan – this is the opportunity for you! Please contact us at Chalet, and let’s talk.

Job Requirements: Full time position.

5-7 day week Email resume & cover letter to accounting@allied-landscaping.com Project Manager American Gardens LLC, Elmhurst, IL, is actively searching for a Project Manager a proven track record of success in managing multiple projects and crews while hitting the forecasted gross profit margins.

Ideal candidate will instruct, direct, and monitor staff; providing materials, directions, tools and logistical support to the field in order to maximize output per labor hour.

Experience in the landscape/green industry, specifically hardscapes, lighting and ornamental planting is required.

This career opportunity offers a competitive salary, a performance-based bonus program, reimbursed business expenses and other company benefits.

To apply for this position, and learn more about job requirements and responsibilities, please forward a resume and cover letter to: Recruiting Director (hr@americangardensllc.com) with “Project Manager” as your email subject

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Please email AlexM@chaletnursery.com if interested.

Landscape Superintendent Chalet is looking for a Landscape Superintendent to join us at our third generation, family-owned company. In this role, you will manage, train, and develop crew members while supervising Landscape Construction jobs to completion using your elevated skills in communication and teamwork. Experience in landscape construction, site and crew supervision, and strong plant knowledge is a must. This full-time, yearround opportunity in North Chicago, IL (near Gurnee) offers a robust benefits and compensation package including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurances, FSA, paid time off, holidays, and 401(k) with match. If you’re a pro-active problem solver with a positive attitude who’s great at seeing both the details and the big picture of a project consider joining our team!

Please email AlexM@chaletnursery.com if interested.

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

Please email AlexM@chaletnursery.com if interested.

CLASSIFIED ADS CLOSING DATES & RATES April 2022 issue ads: March 15, 2022 May 2022 issue ads: April 15, 2022 PLEASE NOTE: “HELP WANTED” AD SALES ARE LIMITED TO ILCA MEMBER COMPANIES Magazine Cost is $5 per line Minimum charge $50 Website Cost is $12 per line Minimum charge $120 (About 6 words/line) Submit your ads online at ilca.net or Call Alycia Nagy (630) 472-2851

Advertisers Altorfer Cat ..............................................................41 Arthur Clesen, Inc. ...................................................52 Bartlett Tree Experts ..............................................40 Breezy Hill Nursery ................................................42 Cardno .....................................................................28 Chi Turf ...................................................................51 Clesen Wholsesale ..................................................50 Doty Nurseries LLC ..................................................4 Green Glen Nursery ...............................................63 Hinsdale Nurseries, Inc. ..........................................44

Inspiration Alley Editor’s Note: Over time, we run across a mountain of fun, innovative, and generally creative ideas. They don’t always fit with the magazine content, but we do collect them for some future use. This brings us to Inspiration Alley, a place where we display pure creativity. It’s up to you to judge the merit of each offering. So use it, lose it or be inspired to try something different.

Up, Up and Away!

By Nina A. Koziol

Green roofs. Think of them as very shallow container gardens packed with drought-tolerant, sun-loving plants. They’ve been popular in Europe for decades. The city of Utrecht in the Netherlands plants on top of bus shelters, and Stuttgart, Germany is often regarded as the green roof capital. Some of the roofs allow nimble goats to nibble the plants. Here are a few local examples. Goats not included.

Homer Industries ...................................................45

Sedums top the garden shed of Carol Becker, owner of Sage Advice Landscape Design and Consulting in Park Ridge.

Husquvarna ...........................................................47 James Martin Associates .........................................58 Lafarge Fox River Stone ........................................39 JKS Ventures ............................................................42 Longshadow Planters .............................................29 Mariani Plants ..........................................................6

Biologist and educator Pat Armstrong planted her Naperville roof with native plants 40-plus years ago.

Mariani Plants .........................................................35 McGinty Bros. .......................................................40 Midwest Groundcovers ............................................2 Midwest Trading .....................................................19

Plants capture about 80 square feet of rainwater from Becker’s shed.

Northern Family Farms ..........................................53 Rocks, Etc................................................................48 Russo .......................................................................55

Armstrong’s prairie plants thrive despite periods of drought.

Learn more: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/green_roof_garden

Spring Meadow Nursery ..........................................31 The Mulch Center ....................................................37 Turtle Creek Nursery ...............................................49 Unilock, Inc. ...........................................................64 Vermeer Midwest ....................................................43 Wilson Nurseries ....................................................46 Xylem ......................................................................48

Midwest Groundcovers’ shed with special green roof planting trays.

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

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Hidden Gems Worth Visiting

Friendship Park Conservatory

by Heather Prince

Looking for a secret garden spot to stop in and

recharge the batteries in the Des Plaines area? The Friendship Park Conservatory is a diminutive hidden gem tucked into Friendship Park. As you walk through the planting beds to the building, in summer, a hosta collection is scattered with stone benches under the trees. The indoor space is lush with plantings and soothing with the musical trickle of water. Tucked away on the grounds of Friendship Park, there is also plenty to explore on this 30-acre site that includes gardens brimming with flowers in summer, a walking and bicycle path, soccer field, playground, greenhouse, atrium, courtyard, rental facility and more.

The staff keeps the conservatory a destination by changing out displays according to the seasons, holidays, and special events. Tall Norfolk pine and mature ficus trees greet you as you step through the doors.

Planting beds are layered with ferns, tropicals, flowers, and seasonal plants like poinsettia for the holidays. A tidy brickwork path leads in a circle with foliage and flowers spilling over the edges. Fiddle leaf figs spread their huge leaves overhead while variegated schefflera and purple Persian shield add bright textures at your feet. A bridge crosses a small koi pond with a fountain that is home to a collection of goldfish, turtles, and frogs. Look under the large leaves 62

395 W. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, IL https://www.mppd.org/parks-facilities/friendshippark-conservatory/ Admission: free Hours: check the website for up-to-date hours.

of philodendrons to find them. The path leads you to a small gazebo tucked in the corner under the shelter of a banana tree and strung with fairy lights. Next to the gazebo is a rock waterfall decorated with pots of orchids in bloom. Their sweet and spicy fragrance encourages you to pause and enjoy a moment of calm. Parlor palms soften the walls and add height to the displays. Look for pieces of garden sculpture tucked into beds and hanging baskets of plants that add height and drama.

In season, there is a courtyard garden dominated by layered stacked stone fountains and brimming flower beds. Each year, annual flowers, some grown on site, fill the display beds with brilliant color.

Dwarf Alberta spruce provide winter interest and a foil for the colorful flowers. Specimen hibiscus are featured in pots. Tables and chairs invite you to linger and watch the birds and the bees. It’s a popular spot for weddings, events, and folks looking for a peaceful moment with a sack lunch. Friendship Park Conservatory is a good example of utilizing a small space to its maximum potential. It can be a source of inspiration for an indoor or pocket garden for a client or houseplant collector.

The Landscape Contractor March 2022

50 years

of Innovation 1972

FIRST PAVER

UNI-STONE®

Unilock introduces the first paving stone to North America.

1991

FIRST PERMEABLE

UNI ECO-STONE®

“ Innovation is really what makes this company.” ~ Ed Bryant, Unilock Founder

Unilock manufactures the first permeable paver.

1992

FIRST FACEMIX

SERIES™

First to introduce facemix technology to North America.

1993

TUMBLED PAVER BRUSSELS BLOCK®

Unilock starts a new trend with tumbled pavers and walls.

50 years ago, our founder had a dream. When Ed Bryant introduced the UNI-Stone paver to the North American

2004

market, he essentially established the hardscaping

FIRST ULTIMA

First to produce Ultima Concrete technology in North America. ™

industry here. Since then, we have continued to innovate and grow, paving the way forward for others to follow. From permeable to facemix, tumbling, coatings and textures, Unilock has led the pack. And we’re just

2007

FIRST COATING

UMBRIANO®

Unilock introduces EasyClean™ Stain Resistance technology.

2018

PATENTED U-CARA

U-CARA® WALL SYSTEM

Unilock patents the revolutionary U-Cara Multi-Face Wall System.

getting started.

Learn more about our industry-leading product lineup and the personalized support that our Territory Managers have to offer you by connecting with us at 1-800-UNILOCK or UNILOCK.com. We have Boots on the Ground in your area and look forward to meeting you.