The Landscape Contractor magazine MAY.17 Digital Edition by Association Publishing Partners

Save the Date â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Aug. 10, 2017

p.o. box 748 • st. charles, il 60174 847.742.1790 • fax 847.742.2655 www.midwestgroundcovers.com

May 2017

CONTENTS

Excellence In Landscape Awards Project

FOCUS: Containers, Planters and Hardscapes Why Specify Certified Stone? 10 Certified stone? Since when? 3D Reality Software. It’s here. 14 And it’s easier to use than it looks

ILCA Pre-Season Events 20 • Hardscape Illinois • Field Staff Skills Training • Women’s Networking Group Flower Show Tour Pots with Panache 26 Adding the WOW factor to spring containers

Knowing Native Plants 32 The third installment of the important series ILCA Announces PAC Fund Plans 44 Important news for all ILCA members

Member Profile 48 Crimson Valley Landscaping Sustainable Landscape Calendar 55 What does May have in store? Native Intelligence 62 Solidago speciosa — Showy Goldenrod

EN ESPAÑOL

3D Reality Software. It’s Here. Software de diseño realista en 3D Está aquí. 40 On the cover... “Hey-Hey, Holy Mackeral, Let’s Play Two!” The Acres Group greets the season after winning a 2016 Gold award in Commerical Landscape Construction for the Kane County Cougars — Fitfh Third Bank Ball Park. The Landscape Contractor May 2017

32 3

CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS ILCA Calendar From Where I Stand President’s Message New Members Classified Ads Advertisers Index Photo Credits ILCA Awards Program Paddy Conway Rick Reuland Nina Koziol Jacob Burns

1, 8-9 14-18, 40-41 20-25 26-31 44-52

Calendar

4 5 7 50 59 61

JULY July 13, 2017 Design Tour North Shore

Crimson Valley Jason Fritz/Cardno

48 62

The official publication of the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association (ILCA), The Landscape Contractor is dedicated to educating, advising and informing members of this industry and furthering the goals of the Association. The Landscape Contractor carries news and features relating to landscape contracting, maintenance, design and allied interests. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material and reserves the right to edit any article or advertisement submitted for publication. Publication reserves right to refuse advertising not in keeping with goals of Association. WWW.ilca.net

AUGUST August 10, 2017 Summer Field Day College of DuPage Glen Ellyn, IL

Volume 58, Number 5. 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

Events Manager Terre Houte thoute@ilca.net Office Manager Alycia O’Connor aoconnor@ilca.net Membership & Marketing Coordinator Marissa Stubler mstubler@ilca.net

ILCA 2625 Butterfield Road Ste. 104S Oak Brook, IL 60523 (630) 472-2851 • Fax (630) 472-3150 www.ilca.net

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

v Becke Davis Senior Writer

treethyme@aol.com

at dotynu rseries.co m to rece ive our

Patrice Peltier

Feature Writer patpeltier@charter.net

Meta Levin

email ne wsle t ter

Feature Writer

dotynurseries.com

Nina Koziol

Shade TreeS • OrnamenTalS • evergreenS • ShrubS

meta.levin@comcast.net Feature Writer

n.koziol@att.net Heather Prince Feature Writer

princeht@sbcglobal.net Marilyn Witney

Ryan Doty sales@dotynurseries.com

P 630 365 9063 F 630 365 9081

45W121 Beith Road Maple Park, IL 60151

Follow—

Feature Writer

madwitney@comcast.net

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

@ILCAlandscape

facebook.com/illinoislandscapecontractorsassociation

From Where I Stand — By now, every landscape professional from

Alton to Zion is familiar with the amendments to Senate Bill 9. This bill would place a 6.25% tax on all gross revenue for landscape and snow removal services. The original iteration placed a 5% excise tax on landscape and snow services, but that was ratcheted up to 6.25% by amendment three. ILCA has been aggressively lobbying this bill for four months. We have hired an additional lobbyist, former State Representative Mike Tryon to assist our current lobbyist Dave Manning in fighting the bill. We have established a coalition of landscape, snow, and property management associations. We have created a comprehensive advocacy packet that contains resources, sample legislator correspondences, letters to the editor templates, model client communications, and a “leave behind” to share with elected officials. ILCA has communicated with dozens of elected officials. Our Regulatory and Legislative Committee holds a weekly strategy call every Monday and will continue to do so until the final gavel pounds. Finally, a combination of R&L Committee members, Board members, and ILCA staff have called almost 800 members to encourage them to contact their elected officials and donate to the Political Action Committee (PAC) fund. I have cauliflower ear from making 200 calls myself in 4 days. We have made it our organizational mission to not leave this session of the General Assembly with any regrets. We refuse to get to June with any woulda-shoulda-couldas. This is not an article about why SB9 is bad for the landscape industry. The people reading this do not need to be convinced. This is an article about how we got here. It is important to understand why the landscape industry is facing this legislation and why our collective efforts in this moment will shape ILCA’s advocacy for years to come. Over my 200 calls, the most common response was a few minutes of angry muttering, followed by the simple question, “Why us?” There is a palpable assumption that the landscape industry was singled out for some type of past transgression. It is hard not to take an egregious tax on landscape and snow tax as personal when it’s your industry standing before the firing line. The answer to “Why us?” is a little more complicated. It has nothing to do with vendettas or personal beefs against the industry or ILCA. This is not because some state rep’s yard had a scorching case of crabgrass last August. The answer to “Why us?” is less personal and more regional. To provide some historical perspective, landscaping has been included on a proposed list of services to be taxed for decades. There was a familiar list of services to be taxed that was wedged into revenue bills. This list would whip dozens of industries into a frenzy but ultimately stall. I had seen this list pushed at the General Assembly level at least four times since joining ILCA in 2008. From what I have been told, it has haunted Springfield for years - dragging its rusty chains through the Capitol rotunda. When SB9 was introduced in the late winter, I was expecting

to see the familiar list. This iteration was much different. The list of services in the current bill was not trying to make a larger point about class privilege. The provisions in Senate Bill 9 were well conceptualized and it was clear that revenue generation, not making a statement, was the primary driver. This language had a clear intention to define landscape services so they could be summarily taxed. If cat videos can go viral, so can legislation. It is very common that legislators look to other states for specific bill language they want to apply to an overarching concept. Ironically, a tax on Illinois landscape and snow services was not born in Illinois. It was born from the service tax models of surrounding states, namely two, and exported to our statehouse. Illinois actually taxes very few services and most of those are not paid by general consumers. This is in contrast to Iowa who taxes over 81 services and Wisconsin who taxes 14. In our countless discussions with legislators were have heard a similar talking point that Illinois is taxing these specific services because other states tax them too. If we didn’t know better, that statement pacifies harsh critics because we’d assume we’ve been getting away with something. The fact of the matter is, that is complete poppycock. If the Illinois landscape service tax model was passed as presented, it would be the most comprehensive and wide reaching service tax in the Midwest. Indiana, Kentucky, and Missouri don’t tax any landscape or snow services. Iowa does not tax snow or what we would consider landscape construction. Wisconsin exempts snow and some hardscape installation. Illinois would tax it all: landscaping, tree care, turf care, and snow. It would tax design build and maintenance. When considering new taxes, lawmakers hunt like hyenas. Sure, it’s more sporting to go after the biggest, fastest, strongest wildebeest. It may even feed the pack for a few extra days. It simply isn’t worth the risk. Instead, you focus on the sick and injured. In most states, the landscape lobby resembles the sick and the injured. No union is going to organize, no protest is going to be lodged, no million landscaper march is going to walk to the capital. Landscape professionals are a safe target. The ILCA begs to differ. Our actions on SB9 are so important because they are putting a microscope on ILCA’s political advocacy and the tenacity of landscape professionals statewide. Make no mistake, we are being tested. We rarely send RED ALERTS to our members because our lobbyist, Regulatory & Legislative Committee, and staff prefer to work proactively and quietly. SB9 is an exception. We want our members to roar. We want our members to help toss SB9 in a hole and then throw away the hole. At the least, we want every single member of ILCA to do the following four things: 1. Call/email your state senator and state representative and tell them you oppose SB9 and any service tax on landscaping and snow. If you have already done so, do it again. They have short memories. 2. Have every single employee do the same. 3. Make a donation to the Political Action Committee. We will take any sized donation, but $500 is the recommended amount

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The Landscape Contractor May 2017

From Where I Stand —

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given the seriousness of the situation. 4. Tell a non-member about ILCA’s political advocacy and how we shoulder a tremendous burden for landscape professionals statewide. If they don’t want to join, at least have them thank you. In our 800 calls, it was clear that members are initially hesitant to make contributions to the Political Action Committee. They view it as either blood money or just, generally icky. I know we all want to believe that the strongest argument should win the day but it doesn’t work like that. After some initial wrangling, I’ve made my moral and ethical peace with PAC contributions. They provide access and also showcase commitment. We’ve been sending our lobbyist down to Springfield for 10 years with nothing but a smile and shoe shine. Some of the special interest groups we lobby against raise hundreds of thousands per year and expend almost as much. Yet, it’s not about who can outspend who. Believe what you will about state politicians, but they are not that crass. A PAC contribution, even as low as $500, demonstrates to the elected official that you actually support your own words. When we ask a senator or representative to support our issue, we are essentially saying, “This is important to your constituents who are landscape professionals. If you vote for this, it will make them happy and they will continue to vote for you.” If our members then turn around and vote for their opponent, or, more likely stop caring after our issue has passed, what message does that send? A PAC contribution is tangible reinforcement that we want elected officials who are sympathetic and supportive of our interests to remain in office. Let me put this into terms a landscape professional will understand. A landscape company charges a design fee of $500. The landscape company creates an incredible landscape design that requires hours of staff time. The client assures the landscape company that they are the contractor for them. The landscape company proudly hands over the design. The client says thanks and then hires another firm. Sound familiar? It drives contractors nuts when clients beg for something, get it, then walk away and never look back. The goal is the landscape job, but, at the very least, recouping the design fee would be nice. Well, the goal of the elected official is to receive the enduring support of his landscape industry constituents. The consolation prize is the PAC contribution. We have a $600,000 scholarship fund. We have a $30,000 PAC fund. Imagine how we could help protect and advance landscape professionals if we could only switch those amounts for one session. The General Assembly adjourns on May 31st. As I write this, we have 44 more days to punch and counterpunch. Don’t get to June and say, “I shoulda…” Take an hour, make the phone calls, write the PC check, and guilt a non-member. I know spare hours in the spring are a luxury, but put that one hour up against the dozens of hours spent filling out state sales tax reports for the next 30 years. Remember, SB9 isn’t personal, but take it personally.

Scott Grams April 18, 2017

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

President’s Message — The weather this year has been some of the strangest I have

President

Mike Schmechtig Schmechtig Landscape Company (847) 566-1233 mschmechtig@schmechtiglandscapes.com

Vice-President

Lisa Fiore Don Fiore Company, Inc. (847) 234-0020 lfiore@donfiore.com

Secretary-Treasurer

Tom Lupfer Lupfer Landscaping (708) 352-2765 tom@lupferlandscaping.com

Immediate Past President Rusty Maulding Nature’s View (815) 592-7582 rusty@naturesview.info

Directors

Mark Breier National Seed Co. (630) 963-8787 mark.breier@natseed.com Lisa Fiore Fiore Nursery and Landscape Supply (847) 913-1414 lisa@cjfiore.com Jose Garcia Natural Creations Landscaping, Inc. (815) 724-0991 info@naturalcreationslandscaping.com Allan Jeziorski Hartman Landscape (708) 403-8433 allan@hartmanlandscape.net 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 Maureen Scheitz Acres Group (847) 526-4554 maureen.scheitz@acresgroup.com Donna Vignocchi Zych ILT Vignocchi, Inc. (847) 487-5200 dvignocchi@iltvignocchi.com

ever experienced. Winter brought us a record-long streak for no snow in January and February. This was the first time in 146 years, the National Weather Service documented no snow on the ground in Chicago for those two months. Many companies are feeling the financial crunch due to the snow drought. March arrived with above normal precipitation that continued through April. Now May is upon us and we are in full swing to provide our clients the landscaping services they have asked for. The ILCA encourages all members to reach out to others in the industry asking them to join us. This is how we grow. As each of us work through the 2017 season, remember the ILCA and please encourage others who perform landscape design, construction and maintenance, as well as those who provide products and services, to look into an ILCA membership and consider joining. The Landscape Contractor magazine is online, as well as in print! The digital version is not a replacement for the print edition of The Landscape Contractor. All members and new members of ILCA will continue to receive a printed copy as part of their membership. The digital edition amplifies the print edition and allows it to be shared within companies and on social media. The digital edition benefits members on the go and reaches individuals who normally do not receive the publication, but will find it when searching the internet. The Board continues to work on Illinois Senate Bill 9 - Service Tax on Landscaping. I mentioned this in my letter last month. In Illinois Senate Bill 9, our industry is facing a 6.25% sales tax increase on every job we do. If you haven’t done so already, reach out to your representatives and ask your clients too. To find your Illinois representatives, go to this website: https://www.illinoispolicy.org/maps/, it will give you the opportunity to email your representative directly and include: say No to Illinois Senate Bill 9 – 6.25% Service Tax on Landscaping; you are a landscape professional and your business cannot afford this; please don’t put my business at a greater competitive disadvantage by singling out and taxing landscape services. Don’t forget about the new subcommittee set to reinvigorate the Political Action Committee (PAC). Monetary contributions are needed. This is the best way for our association to lobby and make the strongest argument to defeat Senate Bills that will hurt our industry but most importantly our businesses and livelihood. To learn more about PAC and making a contribution (every dollar counts), please contact the ILCA office or me. Are you interested in sharing your knowledge with people in the industry? There is a call for presentations for iLandscape 2018, January 31-February 2, 2018. Presentation topics can include: Plants and Horticulture, Management and Operations, Sales and Marketing, Maintenance and Snow, Landscape Architecture and Design, Landscape Construction and Installation, topics taught in Spanish, and Other. All submissions, received by May 31, 2017, will be reviewed and considered for this comprehensive educational program by ILCA’s Education Committee. Don’t forget to mark your calendars and plan to attend Summer Field Days on August 10, 2017 at the College of DuPage. Respectfully, Michael Schmechtig

www.ilca.net The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Architectural Gardens, Inc. • Sharin’ the Shade Lake Forest The pleasures of alfresco entertaining are right at hand living season providing protection from the elements and enabling tem-

in this tailor-made outdoor room. The sociable living space is anchored by a custom-built pavilion complete with the latest in media technology, heating and cooling, and hotel-style mini bar. The clients began with a distinct vision for how they wanted to use the landscape; expand the living area beyond the walls of the house with an outdoor space that delivers style and comfort equal to the home’s interior. They also expressed a desire for their home to be a social hub for family and friends; comfortable for a twosome or 20. The concept of a cigar lounge was proposed where the homeowner, a cigar aficionado, could enjoy a leisurely smoke and beverage outdoors almost any day of the year. The space was laid out to establish pleasing views from inside the house and make tasks such as grilling and serving convenient. A variety of open-air and covered seating options were designed for dining, conversation, quiet contemplation, or gathering around the TV to cheer on the home team. The covered pavilion extends the outdoor

perature control with a ceiling-mounted fan and infrared heater, as well as a gas fireplace – all controlled by a smart phone app. Style, quality, durability, and comfort were achieved through methodical planning, judicious material selection, and expert craftsmanship of all built elements. The design of the pavilion’s vaulted ceiling creates a sense of openness and refinement with honey-stained tongue-and-groove paneling, painted trim, recessed lighting and speakers. The masonry columns, walls, fireplace, and cook station base were constructed on 42” poured concrete footings and faced with a custom blend of seven stone types to replicate the ashlar pattern on the home’s exterior. Bluestone coping was thermal treated to create a pebbled and uniform surface. Gas, power, and signal feeds for the grills, outdoor lighting, sound system, fan, heater, fireplace, and TV were determined in advance and concealed below ground or within each structure. A technology specialist oversaw the expansion of the electrical panel and completed the smart system programming.

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Containers, Planters and Hardscapes —

Why Specify Certified Stone? by Meta Levin

“Prior to the certification, the stone industry wasn’t neces-

Although the certification was adopted in 2014, it is little known in the industry.

sarily doing a good job telling its story when it came to sustainability,” Karen Olah of Coldspring, a quarrier and fabricator of natural stone, told a full room at iLandscape. While people were demanding more transparency in the products and services they consumed, including the building industry, no one was talking about stone. That has changed. For landscape contractors, whose clients are interested in sustainability or who are working with architects involved in LEED v4 projects, there now is a certification for sustainable quarrying practices. “(The certification) speaks to what people are asking for,” she says. “Sustainability is driving the marketplace.” iLandscape 2017 attendees were given an opportunity to learn about the new certification program through Olah’s presentation, “Why specify Certified Stone: How the Natural Dimension Stone Sustainability Standard is Reshaping Hardscape Projects.” The talk generally explained the ANSI/

NSC 373 stone sustainability standard and was worth 1.5 CEs for Landscape Architects. Administrated by the Natural Stone Council (NSC), an association comprised of natural stone associations from throughout the country, the certification now has been recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council, which administers the LEED building certification – it is certified for LEED v4 - and the International Living Future Initiative’s Living Building Challenge (LBC). Natural stone already is recyclable, low maintenance, discharges no volatile organic compounds and is durable. Its beauty has made it popular for building and outdoor hardscapes, as well as a number of other uses. The sustainability standard is designed to provide verification that the stone used for projects is sourced from environmentally responsible material. Using a third party verified standard for natural dimension stone is intended to validate to those using the material that it is produced in an economically, environmentally and socially responsible manner. (continued on page 12)

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

VINTAGE PAVERS Reclaimed from the old streets of many Midwestern cities, clay street pavers and antique granite pavers have become a unique, preferred choice when design requires the elusive look of originality. Once an old street, now an exclusive driveway, reclaimed street pavers provide the look and appeal of natural design. No comparison can be made to these beautiful brick, the texture, the wear of years of weather and use from old carriages and vintage automobiles have created an exceptional patina that newly manufactured concrete pavers cannot match.

Stockyards Brick Clay Street Pavers & Antique Granite Pavers are utilized most commonly for driveways, paths, walkways and patios. Reclaimed pavers are also used in the construction of many exclusive homes as well as restaurants and country clubs. Some designers are also suggesting them for use in atrium flooring.

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Containers, Planters and Hardscapes — (continued from page 10) Although the certification was adopted in 2014, it is little known in the industry, say those in the know. Attendees at the iLandscape presentation were interested in learning about quarrying practices, as well as whether it helped them identify domestic materials and if the installers needed to be certified to maintain the chain of custody needed for such certifications as LEED v4. At this point the answer to the latter is no, but quarriers and fabricators must be certified. iLandscape attendees wanted to be able to source the stone from domestic suppliers, says Olah: “They want to be able to support the domestic quarries and fabricators.” Modern quarrying and fabricating allows for extracting to demand. By using a diamond saw the stone can be cut more precisely, which means that there is less waste and more of the stone can be used for varying purposes, says

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The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Olah. “Everything is used,” she says. “it is efficient and sustainable.” The standard defines environmental, ecological, socially responsible and human health metrics to be used for extracting and manufacturing natural dimension stone, as well as outlines methods for improving baseline environmental performance. iLandscape attendees were interested in the human health and safety aspects of the certification, as well as quarrying practices in general. Using the ANSI/NSC 373 focuses on educating the design and building professions as to the advantages of incorporating certified stone into their projects.

L O N G S H A D OW

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Containers, Planters and Hardscapes —

3-D Reality Design Software— It’s Here. Embrace It! By Meta L. Levin

For years,

Padraig (Paddy) Conway of Coltswold Gardens, Ltd. In Palos Hills, IL, relied on his knowledge, artistic and writing skills when presenting landscaping proposals to clients. “I was old school,” he says. And then he met 3D imaging software and it rocked his world. (pun intended) After 32 years in the business, he had declared himself semi-retired. “I was going to teach students in our industry,” he says. Initially, he wasn’t interested in the 3D software, but after playing with it for a weekend, he was hooked. That’s when he began touring the country talking with groups, making presentations, such as the one he made to a packed room at iLandscape 2017, “3D Reality Design Software. It’s here. Embrace it!” Conway is partial to Uvision by Idea Spectrum, 3D software, which Unilock management asked him to test.

Unilock’s products come pre-loaded in the programs. Only Idea Spectrum can add anything else. Users can, however, download models from the Internet, such as rocks, boulders, native plants and trees. They also can buy multi-manufacturer software, but Unilock has features that only can be seen on its version. Unilock and Idea Spectrum are business partners. Conway maintains that the software is easy to learn: “If someone pays attention and spends 15 minutes a day practicing, he or she will be competent within 30 days. But you can learn enough to start selling much faster than that.” There are other 3D software products out there, including the popular SketchUp by Trimble, as well as Rhino 3D; Idea Spectrum’s other software – Realtime Landscaping Architect – and a plug in for Autodesk’s Revit BIM soft-

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

ware, but, while acting as a consultant for Unilock, Conway has learned, uses and promotes Uvision by Idea Spectrum. “My sales have gone through the roof,” says Conway, who has been using the software for the last four years. Educated by television programs, magazines and Internet sites, clients have come to expect high tech presentations, but they still are impressed by what he has to offer. Conway typically brings his Apple TV device into the home, plugs it into a customer’s flat screen television and starts the show. Clients see the proposed landscaping from every angle, including a drone’s eye view of the property from the air, 6 feet up and then, perhaps, 12 feet up, swooping up the walk, through the trees and around the yard. “It’s jaw dropping,” he says. “They are dumbfounded.” (continued on page 16)

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The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Containers, Planters and Hardscapes — (continued from page 16) The presentation, Conway emphasizes, is more than just pizzazz and dazzle. With a surveying background, it’s second nature to him to read a blueprint or a plat of survey. Not so most homeowners, who, he says, would be hard pressed to find their own back doors on a blueprint. Conway touts the clarity that a 3D presentation brings to the table. So, for instance, homeowners can see what a landscape will look like when it is first installed, then six years or so down the road. “I can grow the plants in front of them,” he says. If there are children in the room and a pond is involved in the design, (continued on page 18)

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

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Containers, Planters and Hardscapes — (continued on page 16) he can populate it with fish, then hand the youngsters the mouse and let them “feed” the virtual fish. In addition, he can embed information, such as color, price and inventory into each item, whether it be a hardscape or a tree. Changes are quick and easy, too. It has the communication advantages of technology, as well. For someone like Conway, who now is traveling the country making presentations, clear communications with his employees back home

is crucial. He can transmit the plans – in 3D format – to them, complete with the embedded information necessary for them to do the work. Of course, other 3D software has similar advantages, but Conway is not talking about other software. He urges landscape architects and designers to embrace the new technology. “Landscaping competition is not from our peers who attend my seminars,” he says. “It’s from kitchens, because they are presented by such software with amazing

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

clarity. Homeowners have budgets and options. We need to compete professionally for their budgets.” The iLandscape audience was interested in what he had to say, says Conway. Interested enough, in fact, to follow him out into the hall after the presentation and to stop him with questions as he walked the show. ‘They wanted to know if it was really that easy,” he says. He tells them that to a landscape architect or designer, “it is a gift.”

ILCA Pre-Season Events â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

Landscape Skills Training for Field Staff 2017 marked

the first year for Field Staff Skills Training, a new 2-day seminar for English and Spanish-speaking field staff, foremen, supervisors, and grounds managers. The event was held on March 16-17, 2017 at the College of Lake County, Grayslake, IL. The seminar covered a broad range of skills that landscape personnel need to know. Held right before the start of landscape season it provided a great tune-up to get employees prepared for the busy landscape season. Sessions in English and Spanish included: Irrigation Safety and First Aid General Equipment Pruning and Planting Trees Instrument Training Proper Cultural Practices Grading and Drainage Plant Layout Etiquette and Customer Plant and Shrub ID Service Plan Reading 5 Math Rules Permeable Paver Installation

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

ILCA Pre-Season Events —

Women’s Networking Group Pre-Show Tour of the Chicago Flower & Garden Show Wednesday, March 22, 2017, ILCA

members were treated to an exclusive pre-show tour of the Chicago Flower & Garden Show, held at Navy Pier. The event was hosted by the ILCA Women’s Networking Group (WNG) who worked with the organizers of the show to provide a 90-minute guided tour before the floor opens from 8:30am-10:00am. This was a terrific opportunity to have the entire show all to yourselves and take pictures without the crowds.

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

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Containers, Planters and Hardscapes —

Pots with Panache

— Add the WOW factor to your spring containers by Nina A. Koziol

April showers bring May flow-

ers — and lots of them in eye-popping colors that will dress up your clients’ pots, hanging baskets and window boxes. “We typically like strong contrasts, but in spring we need to see color so badly that we try to really make a feast for the eyes,” says Anne Roberts, president of Anne Roberts Gardens, Inc., in Chicago (www.annerobertsgardens.com). Roberts’ firm, known for creating lush hanging baskets, planters, green walls and roofs for many Chicago commercial and residential properties, created this scintillating spring combination, which melds pale

yellow and chartreuse with a vibrant rose and purple. The pot features cool-weather annuals: Persian buttercup (Ranunculus ‘Maché Rose’), Senetti blue bicolor, purple pericallis (Pericallis x hybrida) and primrosecolored pansies (Viola x wittrockiana ‘Delta Pure Primrose’). The golden creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia ‘Aurea’) is typically a ground-covering perennial vine in the Chicago area and the yellow-twig dogwood stems (Cornus sericea ‘Flaviramea’) were cut and anchored securely in the potting mix. The delicate primrose-yellow pansies

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

counter the vivid blue pericallis blossoms. “You tend to see very bright yellows at this time of year, but this primrose pansy is very pastel and calms the entire composition down. It really works.” Roberts chose the plants because they are fairly cold-hardy and can withstand a light frost. “The ranunculus is our go-to plant for spring,” she says. “They look like a rose, they continue blooming and they don’t have messy foliage. It’s a real winner in our book.” The container, planted in early April, is a spring display that can be replaced with heat-loving annuals in late-May. “We do (continued on page 28)

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Containers, Planters and Hardscapes — (continued from page 26) a four-season rotation and I love dark gray, charcoal and light gray for pots,” Roberts says. “Anything you put into this container works no matter what the season or the color of the flowers, foliage or twigs.” Sited in partial shade, the container holds a soil-less mix of peat, vermiculite, perlite and slow-release granular fertilizer. The mix was added to within an inch or two of the rim so that it won’t wash out when the client waters it. Drainage holes in the bottom are a must for all planters, especially those outdoors so that

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

water can drain freely. “The container might need watering two to three times a week if there’s no rain,” she says. And, if temperatures dip into the low 30’s at night, the plants may need to be covered to prevent a killing frost from settling on the leaves and flowers—an important reminder for the client. As the weather warms up, the cool-season annuals wind down. “We do try to keep the lysimachia since it will continue to thrive even in the heat, and we end up with larger plants by keeping them in the containers from spring.” (continued on page 30)

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The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Containers, Planters and Hardscapes — (continued from page 28) Some of her favorite summer plants are succulents, such as Aeonium ‘Zwartkop,’ Agave ‘Little Shark,’ Sedum ‘Dragon’s Blood,’ Echeveria runyonii ‘Topsy Turvy’ and aloe ‘Gator.’ Her summer seasonal switch-over might also include Euphorbia ‘Firesticks,’ Papyrus ‘Little Tut,” phormium or cordyline. Trailing plants create fullness when they spill over the edge of the pot, but look beyond the ubiquitous ornamental sweet potato vine. She suggests using lysimachia, which is more delicate-looking and less aggressive in a basket than Marguerite sweet potato, but provides the same chartreuse color. Experimentation brings innovation. “Have fun—people tend to use the same things over and over. Try something different. There are always new plants and combinations.” And thank goodness for that.

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Knowing Native Native Intelligence

An ongoing series to help guide landscape contr by Nina Koziol

There’s no question that native plants are hot.

They’re touted in magazines, at garden centers and in the news where they’re often linked to bees and other important pollinators. Many natives get the nod for their drought tolerance, low maintenance and disease or pest resistance. As ground covers, some can be used to replace spotty turf in dry, shady sites. Others complement non-native perennials in sunny beds, borders, and in naturalistic and formal designs. In this ongoing series on natives, we’re including cultivars of native plants, which are often called by the quirky name ‘nativars.’ Nativars can result naturally. One example is Rudbeckia subtomentosa ‘Henry Eilers,’ a quilled petal form of the native plant that was collected by a nurseryman in a wet prairie swale in Montgomery County, Illinois. Nativars also result from human influence (hybridizing). Nativars are selected for many reasons, including showier flowers, compact habits, disease resistance, or more colorful foliage. To maintain their look, they must be cloned and therefore do not contribute much to biodiversity. Nativars are best planted in gardens rather than in restored habitats where the goals are to preserve biodiversity through the restoration and establishment of native plant communities. “Anytime you can convince a homeowner to plant a native plant over one from elsewhere in the world, that’s a bonus,” says Jacob Burns, curator of herbaceous perennials at the Chicago Botanic Garden. “In regard to nativars, I’m not opposed to homeowners growing them, because sometimes

the foliage is extra attractive and provides needed interest when the plant isn’t in bloom,” he says. “The ideal thing to do is blend nativars with a variety of truly local species to create diversity in the landscape.” While there are many attractive shade-tolerant plants that are native to the Midwest, some, such as Virginia bluebells, emerge in spring only to bloom and then disappear until the following year. “A problem with a lot of woodland wildflowers is that they bloom in spring and by August they are either dormant or tired-looking,” Burns said. Mayapples and trilliums are typical examples, which is why Burns looks for plant combinations that hang onto their foliage and perform well all season. Finding Midwestern woodland plants that bloom later is also a challenge. Burns recommends nativars with colorful leaves, species with late summer fruits, or fall bloomers like asters and goldenrods. These perennials will keep your design from becoming a sea of green most of the year. Here are some of his native plants picks for shady sites.

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Plants

ractors in choosing native plants and cultivars Actaea racemosa —

Black Cohosh, Bugbane Actaea racemosa (Black Cohosh, Bugbane) (formerly Cimicifuga racemosa)

“This is one of the few shade-tolerant natives with summer flowers,” Burns said. “It’s not to be confused with the Asian species Actaea ramosa, which blooms in autumn and has purple leaved cultivars. Not only do I adore Black Cohosh for its summer blooms, I admire its stately size.” Culture: • Site: Easily grown in average, moistureretentive soils in part to full shade • Size: 4-6 ft. tall; 2-4 ft. wide • Hardiness: Zones 3-8 • Plant Partners: Maidenhair fern, Canadian ginger, Hepatica Bonus: Flowers 1-2 ft. long are lightly fragrant. No serious insect or disease problems

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Native Intelligence Adiantum pedatum —

Northern Maidenhair Fern Adiantum pedatum

Northern Maidenhair Fern

—

“By far, one the most fascinating ferns in all of North America and fortunately, one of the easiest to grow,” Burns said. “No shade garden should be complete without northern maidenhair ferns.” Culture: • Site: Grows in average, medium, well-drained soil in part shade to full shade. Spreads slowly by creeping, branching rhizomes to form large colonies over time • Size: 1-2.5 ft. tall, 1-1.5 ft wide • Hardiness: Zones 3-8 • Plant Partners: Attractive ornamental fern for the shade border, woodland garden, or native plant garden. Combine with broad leaves of hostas and brunneras. Effective edging plant along shade garden paths • Native Cultivar: None Bonus: Tolerates heavy shade

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Asarum canadense —

Canadian Wild Ginger Asarum canadense Canadian Wild Ginger

—

Wild ginger can be found in most counties throughout Illinois. It grows in floodplain woods and upland mesic (moderately moist) areas. Has large, dull kidney-shaped leaves to 6 inches across. (European ginger has shiny leaves.) Culture: • Site: Moist, well-drained humus-rich soil. Flourishes in woodland sites but requires some irrigation during hot, dry weather. Avoid planting too deeply. Spreads slowly by rhizomes to form nice clumps • Size: 8 in. tall, 1-1.5 ft. wide • Hardiness: Zones 4-6 • Bloom time: Late spring to early summer. Cup-shaped purplish flowers hidden under the leaves • Native Cultivar: ‘Eco Choice’ has denser foliage than the species. Plant Partners: Woodland phlox, hakonechloa, hosta, ferns, sedges Bonus: Deer resistant. Holds foliage throughout the growing season Side note: Although the common name implies that it’s edible, it’s not. It contains aristolochic acid, which can cause serious and permanent kidney damage, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Native Intelligence Carex laxiculmis Creeping Sedge

—

Carex laxiculmis — Creeping Sedge “When seeking a colorful ground cover for your shade garden, look no further than the sedge,” Burns said. “Two additional species with blue foliage that are easy to grow include Carex platyphylla and Carex flaccasperma.”

Culture:

• Site: Part to full shade, medium to wet soils • Size: 6-12 in. tall/wide • Hardiness: Zones 5-9

Plant Partners: Turtlehead, ferns, hostas. Effective accent for smaller gardens Native Cultivar: ‘Hobb,’ silvery-blue leaves sold under the trade name Bunny Blue

Bonus:

Tolerates deer, heavy shade, wet soil, evergreen

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Chelone obliqua — Turtlehead Chelone obliqua — Turtlehead

“This turtlehead species is surprisingly shade tolerant and provides much needed late summer blooms that last into fall,” Burns said. “Chelone lyonii is a very similar species, but is native to the southeastern U.S.”

Culture: •

• •

Site: Best grown in organically rich, humusy, moist to wet soils in full sun to part shade Preference is for dappled sun and consistently moist soil conditions Size: 2-3 ft. tall, 1-2 ft. wide Hardiness: Zones 5-9

Plant Partners: Carex, astilbe, ferns Native Cultivar: ‘Alba,’ ‘Tiny Tortuga’

Bonus:

Tolerates erosion, clay, wet soil

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Native Intelligence Caulophyllum thalictroides —

Caulophyllum thalictroides — “The foliage on Actaea pachypoda and Actaea rubra, also known as baneberry, are often hit or miss based on the humidity and amounts of water they receive,” Burns said. “The less fussy alternative is blue cohosh, which remains lush and attractive no matter what.”

Culture: • • • •

Site: Shady woodland areas in rich, moist soil. Spreads slowly by rhizomes Size: 1-2 ft. tall and 6-12 in. wide Hardiness: Zones 3-8 Foliage: Valued for its lacy, blue-green foliage and its erect clusters of blue, fruit-like seeds

Plant Partners: Turtlehead, ferns, astilbe, hostas, hakone grass, sedges Native Cultivar: None

Bonus:

Tolerates erosion, clay, wet soil

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Heuchera americana —

Common/Woodland Alumroot, Coral Bells “While all Heucheras are native to North America, this is one of the few found wild in the Midwest. Look for cultivars that have well-silvered foliage with deep burgundy veins.”

Heuchera americana

—

Common/Woodland Alumroot, Coral Bells

Cultivate: • • • •

Site: Best grown in organically rich, humusy, medium moisture, well-drained soils Size: Basal foliage 6-9” tall. Flowering stems 2-3’ Hardiness: Zones 4-9 Blooms: Late spring to early summer.

Plant Partners: Epimedium, hellebores, Jacob’s Ladder Native Cultivars: ‘Dale’s Strain’ and ‘Green Spice’

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Enfoque: Sección en Español

Software de diseño realista en 3D Por Meta L. Levin Durante varios años Padraig (Paddy) Conway de Coltswold Gardens, Ltd. en Palos Hills, IL, dependió de sus conocimientos y habilidades artísticas y literarias para hacer sus propuestas de paisajismo a sus clientes. “Pertenecía a la vieja escuela”, afirma. Y entonces conoció el software de imágenes tridimensionales (3D) y eso refloreció su mundo (el juego de palabras es intencional). Después de 32 años en el negocio, se ha declarado semijubilado. “Me iba a dedicar a enseñar a estudiantes de nuestra industria”, dice. Inicialmente, no le interesaba el software 3D, pero después de jugar con él un fin de semana, quedó enganchado. Fue entonces que comenzó a recorrer el país hablando con grupos, haciendo

presentaciones, como la que hizo en un salón repleto de persona en iLandscape 2017, “Software de diseño realista en 3D. Está aquí. ¡Adóptelo!”Conway siente afinidad con Uvision por Idea Spectrum,software 3D. La administración de Unilock le pidió que lo probara. Los productos Unilock vienen precargados en los programas.Únicamente Idea Spectrum puede hacerles adiciones. No obstante, los usuarios pueden descargar modelos de Internet, como rocas, bloques, plantas nativas y árboles. También pueden comprar software de otros fabricantes, pero Unilock tienen características que únicamente se pueden ver en su versión. Unilock y Idea Spectrum son socios comerciales.

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Conway afirma que el software es fácil de aprender: “Si alguien presta atención y dedica 15 minutos diariamente a practicarlo, será competente en 30 días. Pero usted puede aprender lo suficiente para comenzar a vender en un período más breve”. Hay otros productos de software 3D en el mercado, incluyendo el popular SketchUp por Trimble, así como Rhino 3D; el otro software de Idea Spectrum – Realtime Landscaping Architect – y un programa adicional para el software Revit BIM de Autodesk, pero actuando como consultor para Unilock, Conway ha aprendido, utiliza y promueve Uvision por Idea Spectrum. “Mis ventas se han disparado”, asegura Conway, quien ha estado utilizando el software durante los últimos

Está aquí. ¡Adóptelo!

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Enfoque: Sección en Español cuatro años. Educados por programas de televisión, revistas y sitios en Internet, los clientes esperan presentaciones de alta tecnología, pero los impresiona lo que Conway ofrece. Conway usualmente lleva su dispositivo de TV Apple a los hogares, lo conecta en la pantalla plana de televisión de sus clientes e inicia la presentación. Los clientes ven el trabajo de paisajismo propuesto desde todos los ángulos, incluyendo una visión de conjunto de la propiedad desde el aire, a 6 pies de altura, y luego, quizá, 12 pies, abarcando toda el área, a través de los árboles y por el patio. “Es asombroso”,asegura. “Quedan impactados”. La presentación, enfatiza Conway, es más que deslumbramiento y dinamismo. Con antecedentes en topografía, es parte de su naturaleza leer un plano o un trazado de agrimensura. No así los dueños de casas, quienes, afirma

Conway, tendrían dificultad para encontrar la entrada trasera de su propia casa en un plano. Conway enfatiza la claridad que una presentación tridimensional ofrece a los clientes. Por ejemplo, los dueños de casas pueden ver la apariencia de un trabajo de paisajismo al momento de su instalación y seis años o más en el futuro. “Puedo cultivar las plantas delante de ellos”, afirma. Si hay niños en la habitación y una pecera es parte del diseño, puede poblarla de peces y darles a los niños el ratón para que incorporen los peces virtuales. Además, puede insertar información, como colores, precio e inventario en cada componente, sea un elemento de concreto o un árbol. Los cambios se pueden hacer fácil y rápidamente. Tiene también las ventajas de la comunicación que ofrece la tecnología. Para una persona como Conway, que actualmente recorre el país haciendo

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presentaciones, las comunicaciones claras con sus empleados en la empresa son un factor determinante. Puede transmitirles planos – en formato tridimensional –, junto con la información insertada, necesaria para que puedan hacer su trabajo. Por supuesto que otros software tridimensionales ofrecen ventajas similares, pero Conway no está hablando sobre otrossoftware. Recomienda encarecidamente a los arquitectos y diseñadorespaisajistas adoptar la nueva tecnología. “La competencia en paisajismo no proviene de nuestros colegas que asisten a mis seminarios”, asegura. “Está en las cocinas de las casas, porque son presentadas por tales software con asombrosa claridad. Los dueños de casas tienen presupuestos y opciones. Tenemos que competir profesionalmente teniendo en cuenta sus presupuestos”.

El público de iLandscape estaba interesado en lo que él exponía, afirma Conway. Lo suficientemente interesado comopara seguirlo por el pasillo después de la presentación para hacerlepreguntas. ‘Querían saber si realmente era así de fácil”, afirma. Lesdice que para un arquitecto o diseñador paisajista “es un don”.

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Special Announcement —

ILCA Restarts PAC Fund by Meta Levin

Spurred by the fight to block Illinois Senate Bill 9, ILCA

has decided to reboot its PAC (political action committee). Until now, the PAC, which has been around for years, was primarily funded through occasional donations from members, says Scott Grams, ILCA executive director. A while back there also was a legislative brunch that generated a relatively small amount of money. Now, however, a new committee will make a concerted effort to adequately fund it, says Tom Lupfer, who is organizing and chairing the new ILCA PAC Committee, which is a subcommittee of the existing Regulatory and Legislative Committee. Illinois Senate Bill 9 threatens to impose a sales tax on services, such as landscape contracting. These would raise the cost of the work, as they are passed along to clients. “Our legislative lobbyist, Dave Manning, has been getting by on a shoestring budget,” says Lupfer. While the PAC’s fundraising goals are modest, if successful, the result would give ILCA and its lobbying efforts a needed boost. Grams estimates that

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

the PAC would raise $20,000 annually, and “spend about $15,000 each year to build relationships.” Included in the latter would be moderate donations to campaign funds of legislators who support the industry and its goals. “Any lobbyist will tell you that if you can back up any position with a political contribution, you have the ear of the elected official,” says Grams. These contributions would be non-partisan, targeting only those who support ILCA’s positions on issues that affect the industry, not by political party. “An onslaught of new taxes and regulations came together to force our hand,” says Lupfer. “We need to build influence and power, so the legislators will listen to us.” Lupfer also emphasizes that ILCA member donations to the PAC can be modest, as well. “Even $50 would be welcomed. Of course, we’d prefer $500,” he says. (continued on page 46)

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Special Announcement — “We are hoping to bring in new blood and fresh faces” to this effort, says Lupfer.

(continued from page 45) Although Grams and Lupfer are talking about raising money, the focus will be on grass roots organizing, including face-to-face meetings with ILCA members and their elected representatives, Lupfer says. In that way, they seek to build long term relationships, so that when a bill does come up, the legislator knows the ILCA member who calls and says, “This bill affects me and this is how.” For instance, Lupfer’s state representative chairs the Illinois House Revenue Committee. “I’m going to get to know him, so if there is a question about whether an action will affect us, I will be able to pick up the phone and he will know that I am his constituent and who I am.” ILCA members will not have to meet with lawmakers alone; they will be backed by committee members and ILCA staff, possibly. “The member will be the friendly face in the district giving a story about how it affects him,” says Lupfer. “Setting up a meeting with a legislator could be intimidating to some people, but who better knows your story than you do? Being the friendly face is not a huge commitment.” The PAC Committee also plans to organize more trips to Springfield, as well as encourage ILCA members to talk with their customers about these issues. There also will be sample letters to the editor, email and phone scripts and examples of letters to state representatives made available to the membership.

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Crimson Valley Landscaping 1541 North Westmoreland Avenue Rockford, IL 61102 (815) 397-1860 www.crimsonvalleylandscaping.com

by Meta Levin

In 2001, the new housing market was

taking off. Michael Sanders chose that time to start Crimson Valley Landscaping. By using new technology and building his team, Sanders took a good share of the new housing market in the Rockford, IL area. Sanders had some nursery, lawn care and garden center experience. A native of the area, he had earned a business degree from Illinois State University where he encountered a professor who told him that if he found something that he really enjoyed, he should make that his profession. And so, he did. At first Sanders only had a few part time employees. By the second or third year in business, he could hire some fulltime people. He now employs 40 people in season. They offer installation and design of outdoor living areas, pool design/ install, irrigation systems, decks and pergolas and outdoor lighting, as well as providing landscape plantings, commercial property management and snow and ice removal. Sanders employed personality testing to insure that his team members were in the jobs that were right for them, as well as to improve internal communication and in hiring new employees. Christian Oyer was Sander’s first hire. “He asked to come to work with me,” says Sanders. At first, he tried doing sales. “He’s detail oriented.” Oyer now is happy as a full-time estimator. Chris Bausman became Crimson Valley’s first full time sales person. “He excels at doing sales, designing and has a great production mind,” says Sanders. Now the company general manager, Sanders considers him the “key to Crimson Valley’s future.” Dawn Stroup is the company’s landscape designer. “Her passion for our customers and teammates is unparalleled,” says Sanders. Joel Rodriquez and Juan Perez both began as laborers, but were promoted to field supervisors. Rodriquez handles planting, lighting and machine work, while Perez oversees the brick crews. “They are smart guys, both of whom have been with us almost 15 years.” He considers his staff a team and includes them in deci48

sions. For instance, as it became obvious that the housing market was slowing, he gathered his team, laid out the situation and together they determined that it was important to return to basics and become more structured and efficient. “We had to invest in our co-workers,” Sanders says. To do that, he focused on continuing education for everyone, including the field crews. Crew leaders were given the opportunity to get certification through ILCA, earning them increased pay. They developed processes and procedure manuals for everything and divided up the jobs to increase efficiencies and quality, bringing in a few more people with specific job duties. The team also established a mission statement and core values, which are posted everywhere. They also changed their target market, aiming at homeowners who had been in their homes at least five years and were ready to add or spruce up the landscaping. “People are reinventing the homes, extending their living spaces outdoors,” says Sanders. Crimson Valley also developed its commercial maintenance division and a separate Estate Deck & Fence division, as well. Crimson Valley also believes in giving back to the community. Once a month the office staff serves lunch at a local homeless shelter. When a tornado hit nearby, the company donated landscaping to homeowners who could not afford to redo their own. When the local zoo got hit, they took equipment and helped clean up the damage. They also donate to PAWS and on Thanksgiving they provide meals to a battered women’s shelter. Each Christmas they adopt a family, providing food and gifts and ring the bell for the Salvation Army, adding an extra $1 for each donation. Crimson Valley recently rejoined ILCA, after a few years’ hiatus. “ILCA supplied the know-how,” he says. He has been a regular at trade shows and educational offerings, to which he brought his staff. He also took advantage of networking opportunities. “The people who work here are second to none,” says Sanders. “I’m luckier than I deserve, to be able to work with such a great team.”

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

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Monarch Landscape & Irrigation, Inc. Vickie Lee P.O. Box 342 Gilberts, IL 60136 Phone: 847-428-7066 Fax: 847-428-7067 Email: vlmonarch@comcast.net Website: www. MonarchLandscapeAndIrrigation.com Monarch Landscape and Irrigation’s skilled team will work hard to make the appearance of your home or office that you will enjoy. Our beautiful landscapes are perfected by top-quality designers. We’re here to service all your needs, using our 30 years of experience to provide superior landscape design, installation and maintenance for commercial and residential customers in Fox Valley. We bring that same commitment to quality to irrigation system design, installation, repair and yearly maintenance.

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Only $30 +tax per cubic yard Available at two locations Harlem Avenue Solids Management Area 7430 Portage Trail, Forest View, IL 60402 Calumet Solids Management Area 12600 S. Doty Rd., Chicago, IL 60628 Call (708) 588-4300 to arrange for pickup, or email biosolids@mwrd.org.

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Green Soils Management, LLC Christian Daman 1141 E. Main St., Suite 202 East Dundee, IL 60118 Phone: 847-695-9300 Fax: 847-783-0032 Email: damanc@thelenmaterials.com Website: www.greensoilsllc.com We are a joint venture LLC between the Thelen Companies and the Plote Companies. We operate a 60 acre yard waste facility located on Plote’s property off IL Route 72 in between Beverly Rd. and IL Route 25, in the city of East Dundee. Enter at the Beverly Materials entrance and follow the Green Soils Management, LLC. signs. We accept yard waste (grass, brush, and leaves) only. No logs, stumps, manure, or food waste accepted. As a residual of our yard waste/composting operations we offer an assortment of outbound products including compost, leaf mulch, triple blend planting mix (compost, sand, screened topsoil), bio-swale mixes, screened topsoil, and we will homogeneously soil blend to suite per project specifications. Bulk semi and transfer trailer transportation available upon request. Organix Composting Jim Cowhey 19065 Hickory Creek Dr. Mokena, IL 60448 Phone: 708-326-3900 Fax: 708-326-3903 Email: jimc@organixrecycling.com Website: www.organixrecycling.com Yard waste and food waste composter located in Chicago. Accepting all yard waste and food waste for recycling. Supplying USCC STA and OMRI certified compost and mulches. Certified truck scales and truck trailer tippers on site for receiving materials and selling finished products.

New Members Reliant Michael Fragias 2625 Butterfield Rd, Ste 329W Oak Brook, IL 60506 Phone: 847-440-2680 Email: mfragias@reliantagency.com Reliant Agency is an independent insurance agency dedicated to handling your insurance and surety needs. We have the capabilities to provide a complete insurance program. We are committed to working with you to develop an insurance program that not only reflects the needs of your operations but is affordable as well. We believe in the human connection between us and our clients. Our service philosophy is to be an extension of our clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; office. Whether it is a claim, endorsement or coverage question our clients always know they have someone to talk to at Reliant Agency.

GOVERNMENT/NON-PROFIT MEMBERS Kishwaukee College Matt Ewert 21193 Malta Road Malta, IL 60150 Phone: 8158252086 x2980 Email: mewert@kishwaukeecollege.edu Website: www.kishwaukeecollege.edu Kishwaukee College Horticulture Department

Hinsdale Nurseries has the best plants in Northern Illinois.

Our robust stock is locally grown making it uniquely suited to the Midwestern soil and climate resulting in the finest quality plants.

Trees, Ornamentals, Evergreens, Shrubs, Annuals, Perennials, Vines & Groundcover

Over 500 Varieties

Of Locally Grown Plants

Over 600 Acres

Of Field & Container Production

Main Office & Sales Yard 630-323-1411 7200 S. Madison Willowbrook, IL 60527

HinsdaleNurseries.com 54

Over 10 Acres Of Holding Yard

Little Rock Farm 630-552-8314 2353 Creek Road Plano, IL 60545

For sale updates and availabilities sign up for our email newsletter! The Landscape Contractor May 2017

June 1, 2016

Illinois Landscape Contractors Association (ILCA) Sustainable Landscape Maintenance Annual Calendar

Sustainable Maintenance Guide and Calendar For the next 15 months, ILCA will be releasing a monthly excerpt from the most current version (v3.0) of its Sustainable Maintenance Guide and Calendar in The Landscape Contractor magazine. The entire 12 month calendar is available to download at no cost to ILCA members, non-profits, public agencies, and units of government. Please email information@ilca.net to request a download of the entire guide and calendar. This guide is not available to private landscape companies who are not members of the ILCA. This guide is intended to equip Illinois Landscape Contractors Association members with all the tools necessary to implement a sustainable maintenance program. It takes into account the constraints of a landscape company in regards to costs, time, equipment, personnel, and horticultural knowledge. The guide is written so any landscape company can apply these maintenance principles to almost any commercial or residential landscape and improve the positive impact on the environment without sacrificing aesthetic quality.

SUSTAINABLE MAINTENANCE CALENDAR June 1, 2016

Illinois Landscape Contractors Association (ILCA) Sustainable Landscape Maintenance Annual Calendar

SUSTAINABLE MAINTENANCE CALENDAR

OTHER UPCOMING SNOWFIGHTER INSTITUTE EVENTS: ONE-DAY SALES SEMINAR: JUNE 29, 2017 CHICAGO, ILLINOIS NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY

IN-HOUSE EVENTS: JUNE 5 – 6, 2017 ISO PRE-AUDIT PREP JUNE 7 – 8, 2017 ISO INTERNAL AUDITOR TRAINING JUNE 12 –14, 2017 GROUNDS MANAGEMENT TRAINING RECEIVE $500 OFF ANY IN-HOUSE EVENT BY ENTERING PROMO CODE ILCA WHEN REGISTERING ON-LINE.

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Classified Ads HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Landscape Supervisor

contractors in the nation, is seeking qualified candidates for their open positions throughout the Chicago land area:

Landscape Designer/Salesperson

Planter’s Palette Landscaping is seeking a full-time Landscape Supervisor. A successful candidate will direct through Project Management and supervision of installation/maintenance teams in collaboration with Design Supervisor. They will ensure that all team members work together for the success of the company by training and leading a team of professionals. An ideal candidate will meet the following requirements: Experience and education managing a wide range of landscape installation & maintenance projects (advanced experience of hardscape a plus) Excellent Customer Service and Management Skills Ability to read landscape plans and good general knowledge of plants Knowledge of estimation processes General Computer Skills (Email, Microsoft Word & Excel) Valid Driver’s License (w/ CDL preferred) Please send a cover letter and resume to: Jay Holinger at jholinger@planterspalette.com or call 630-293-1040

ACCOUNT MANAGERS (junior & senior levels) Opportunities in Wauconda, Roselle & Plainfield -Manage a portfolio of accounts in lawn and snow providing high levels of customer service; make horticultural recommendations & sell property enhancements in lawn and ice melt in snow; sell new contracted lawn & snow accounts. Entry level positions manage a small portfolio of accounts in addition to assisting and shadowing senior level account managers. PRODUCTION MANAGERS (Roselle & Plainfield Locations) Coordinate maintenance division activities, while managing and providing daily supervision and support for multiple foremen and their crews. Join our industry leading team! To view full job descriptions and apply online, visit us at www. acresgroup.com or contact Maria@ 847-487-5071 Spray Technicians

Landscape Architect/Designer Salesperson: Thornapple Landscapes, Inc. is seeking a highly motivated experienced Landscape professional to design, estimate & sell landscape installations. Design and sales experience, computer skills & strong plant/ hardscape knowledge is a must. This position has the potential to be full time based on work performance. Bi-lingual+ Send confidential resumes to: Office@ ThornappleLandscapes.com Acres Group, one of the top 20 professional landscape

We are seeking experienced Spray Technicians. Responsibilities include handling & applying pesticides according to label specs, loading materials & scheduling your route to achieve efficient use of time. During peak season, April 1 to July 1,, the ability and willingness to work on Saturday is needed. Position requires: Operator/Applicator license in turf, ornamental and mosquito. Class C Drivers License. Horticultural knowledge & landscape industry experience. English & Spanish fluency is a plus. Prefer 3 years experience.

Bruss Landscaping of Wheaton is looking to add another talented individual to our team. 2017 marks our 65th year of providing high quality residential landscape design and installation services to DuPage and eastern Kane counties. If you are competent in residential design and sales, have a proven sales record, are self-motivated and focused on GREAT customer service, we would like to meet you. Candidates must have earned a four-year degree in Landscape Design/Architecture/Horticulture and have at least 3 years professional experience. Production/Facility Manager As we continue to grow, we are looking for a dedicated Production/Facility Manager to manage our 6-7 installation crews and 10-acre nursery/production facility in West Chicago. Candidates must have experience managing multiple crews, be well versed in hardscape and plant materials, possess basic computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite) and be able to verbally communicate in both English and Spanish. A class ’C’ license is also necessary as well as a valid Spray Operator License. We can facilitate both the Driver’s License upgrade as well as the Operator License for the proper candidate. Bruss is a relaxed work environment, although seasonally hectic, with a strong compensation and benefit package including insurance, 401k, generous vacation allowance, reduced winter hours and Performance Bonus. Eric Bruss, ebruss@brusslandscaping.com (630) 665-1600

Please email resume to: resumes@rosboroughpartners.com or call: 847.549-1361

HELP WANTED  CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING also available on ILCA’s WEB SITE www.ilca.net Call for information

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES JAMES MARTIN ASSOCIATES, INC. Vernon Hills, IL

James Martin Associates, Inc. is a leader in the Landscape and Snow Management industry. We have been providing services to our customers for over 39 years. We are seeking candidates for the following positions:

Landscape Designer/ Sales Associate

Summer Interns

Landscape Operations Associates

To be considered for any of these opportunities, please forward your resume and salary history to b.mcelroy@jamesmartinassociates.com or call Beth at 847-876-8052.

Landscape Architecture • Construction • Maintenance • Snow Management

www.jamesmartinassociates.com

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Classified Ads HELP WANTED CLASSIFIED ADS CLOSING DATES & RATES June 2017 issue ads: May 15, 2017 July 2017 issue ads: June 15, 2017

Construction Landscape Foreman We seek a Construction Landscape Foreman in our Libertyville Office to oversee all aspects of design/ build work.

PLEASE NOTE: “HELP WANTED” AD SALES ARE LIMITED TO ILCA MEMBER COMPANIES

Must have valid CDL-A Driver’s License with a good driving record and able to ID Midwest Plants. English/Spanish fluency is required. A CLT is a plus.

Magazine Cost is $5 per line Minimum charge $50 Website Cost is $12 per line Minimum charge $120 (About 6 words/line)

Contact: Steve Bartlett, Construction Dept. Mgr. at 847.340-4164 or send email to resumes@rosboroughpartners.com

DESIGN SERVICE Landscape Design Services Need design work for your clients but not ready to add a design professional to your staff? D.T. Design provides experienced quality design and style versatility for your client needs. Offering knowledgeable expertise for: Hardscapes, highly ornamental or native /sustainable planting plans and perennial gardens. Documentation services such as bid sheets, material take – offs and plant sourcing available. Dynascape rendered plans on bond /mylar. Please contact Deirdre at 847-338-2963 or email: detoner@live.com Website: www.dt-landscapedesign.com

Submit your ads online at ilca.net or call Alycia O’Connor (630) 472-2851

Successful suppliers know— industry leaders read this magazine.

• Sales and marketing statistics show that the single best way to reach buyers is through highlytargeted specialty magazines.

• This award-winning magazine is frequently hailed as the best magazine of its kind. Put your ad message in this very flattering environment.

• The Landscape Contractor has an affordable advertising program for every budget.

For immediate attention CALL Debbie at 817-501-2403 or email — debbie.landscapecontractor@yahoo.com 60

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Advertisers 1st Choice Equipment ............................................50 Bartlett Tree Experts .............................................42 Beaver Creek Nursery ..........................................43 Cardno ...................................................................10 Carlin Sales...............................................................6 Cassidy Tire ............................................................47 Chicagoland Gardening .........................................61 Compost Supply ....................................................31 Dayton Bag & Burlap ............................................12 Doty Nurseries LLC ................................................4 Enterprise Fleet Management ..................................15 Goodmark Nurseries ...............................................27 Green Glen Nursery ...............................................63 GROHort ...............................................................19 B. Haney & Sons, Inc. ...............................................61 Hinsdale Nurseries, Inc. ......................................54 Homer Industries ....................................................49 James Martin Associates .........................................59 JKS Ventures ..........................................................43 Kramer Tree Specialists ..........................................30 Lafarge Fox River Stone ........................................53 Lemke Stone .........................................................42 Longshadow Planters .............................................13 McGinty Bros. ........................................................45 Metropolitan Water Reclamation District ...............52 Midwest Groundcovers ............................................2 Midwest Trading ...................................................12 Ornamental Growers Association ...........................17 ProGreen Plus ..........................................................6 Rainbow Farms ......................................................46 Rocks Etc. .............................................................25 Russo Power Equipment .........................................51 Snowfighters Institute ............................................55 Spring Meadow Nursery ........................................29 Stockyards Brick Co. ..............................................11 The Care of Trees .................................................... 6 The Landscape Contractor ......................................60 The Mulch Center ...................................................50 Unilock, Inc. ...........................................................64 Xylem, Inc..............................................................25

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

Knowing Native Plants

Native Intelligence A Guide through the Labyrinth of Native Plants and Cultivars

by Nina Koziol

Solidago speciosa — Showy Goldenrod

In the Midwest,

where winter temperatures can dip to -20 F and summers can produce endless heat and periods of drought, plants must be well-adapted to survive let alone thrive. Native plants — the flowers, grasses, shrubs and trees that grew in geographical regions prior to European settlement — do just that. Many are found growing in forest preserves, open spaces, the dunes and prairies. Evolving over tens of thousands of years, Midwestern native plants have adapted to the harshest winters, they tolerate droughts, and typically prosper in local soils. Once they’re established, natives typically need less supplemental water than other garden plants. Jason Fritz of Cardno will anchor the Native Intelligence series for the next five months.

Solidago speciosa — Showy Goldenrod

“It’s got huge beautiful sprays of yellow flowers. I have several plants at my house. It’s probably the only flower in my neighborhood blooming in the fall. It was still blooming in October and was just covered with bees. A single spray will have 10 individual bees or wasps or flies just covering it.” Cultivate: • Plant in full sun to part shade, dry to medium soils • Height: 3’ • Partners: New England aster, little bluestem Bonus: Stays in a clump and rarely self-sows; fall color may be red, burgundy or wine-colored.

The Landscape Contractor May 2017

NATURAL STONE FROM UNILOCK

DIMENSIONAL CONSISTENCY AND QUALITY YOU CAN COUNT ON Working with natural stone can be a pain when inconsistent dimensions slow down the installation process, and quality issues result in call backs. But with Natural Stone from Unilock, the installation and performance of your next natural stone project will run smoothly. Natural Stone from Unilock is precisely cut, calibrated and shipped to ensure products arrive in excellent condition. As well, extremely low water absorption, incredible freeze-thaw durability and flexural strength means your project will stand the test of time.

CALL US TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIQUE LINE OF NATURAL STONE FROM UNILOCK.

UNILOCK.COM

1-800-UNILOCK