The Landscape Contractor magazine FEB.25 Digital Edition

Partnership Inventory Selection

Photo Credits

CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS

ILCA Awards Committee 1, 8-9

Mark Dwyer 18-22

Frank Mariani 32--38

Rick Reuland 46-50, 104-110, 140

William Chorvat 94-100

Nina Koziol 112-118

Midwest Groundcovers 124-130 EOC Audio 138-139 Mark Dwyer 146

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 66, Number 2. 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

ILCA Staff

Executive Director Scott Grams (630) 472-2851 sgrams@ilca.net

Statewide Director of Development Kellie Schmidt kschmidt@ilca.net

Director of Events AnneMarie Drufke adrufke@ilca.net

Education Manager Melissa Custic mcustic@ilca.net

Office Manager Alycia Nagy anagy@ilca.net

Membership & Marketing Manager

Marissa Stubler mstubler@ilca.net

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

Magazine Staff

Rick Reuland

Publisher/Advertising Sales (630) 637-8632 rmgi@comcast.net

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

Meta Levin

Feature Writer meta.levin@comcast.net

Nina Koziol Feature Writer n.koziol@att.net

Heather Prince Feature Writer princeht@sbcglobal.net

Patrice Peltier Feature Writer patpeltier@charter.net

Becke Davis EditorialAssistant

FEBRUARY

February 13, 2025

Young Professionals Event

Mickey Finn’s Brewery Libertyville, IL

February 18, 2025

Spring Training for Landscape Professionals

Stoneleaf Nursery Eureka, IL

February 25, 2025 ILCA Awards Night Schaumburg Convention Center Schaumburg, IL

February 26-28, 2025 iLandscape — Gardens of the World Schaumburg Convention Center Schaumburg, IL

iLandscape 2025: Gardens of the World

“When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money.”

– Susan Heller

The Illinois Landscape Contractors Association (ILCA) and Wisconsin Nursery & Landscape Association (WNLA) are proud to present iLandscape 2025: The Illinois + Wisconsin Landscape Show. The show will be held from February 26-28, 2025 at The Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center and Hotel, located in Schaumburg, IL.

The creative direction for 2025 is The Gardens of the World. No need to pack a bag or renew your passport, we bring all the globe’s gardens to iLandscape 2025!

The show will focus on seven different garden styles: German, Dutch, English, French, Japanese, Mexican, and American. American landscapes continue to be a melting pot of these global styles. The longitude and latitude may be different, but each garden lends unique design principles, plants, sculpture, and stonework to our American backyards.

The international flavor will push far beyond the garden spaces. Watch iLandscape come alive with music, art, entertainers, artists, cocktails, decor, and raffle prizes plucked from exotic locales from around the world. A German Oompa band, Spanish flamenco, living statues, bag pipers, caricaturists, container wars, and many more surprises await. Even our roamin’ garden gnomes are coming along for the trip — find one hidden among the booths and win some cash.

The educational program is loaded with both international and domestic talent. It features 50 sessions in English and Spanish. Many of the best minds in international horticulture will make the trip stateside or speak via live satellite. Almost every session will be recorded and offered to educational pass holders after the event on our premium content channel Bloom.

The show is one month later this year so we are hoping for sunny skies and warmer temps. One of the benefits of the later date is that iLandscape is now the big kick-off for the season since many more field staff will be returning to work. That will increase crowds of buyers and specifiers.

In order to serve this new audience, we have added Next Level Training/ Clases de capacitación del siguiente nivel en español. This 2-day program, entirely in Spanish, offers technical training before the season kicks off just a few weeks later. In addition, we will experiment with live AI-translation where English sessions can be enjoyed in Spanish with a phone and simple set of ear buds.

The globe starts spinning with three pre-conference workshops and our annual Excellence in Landscape Awards Night. The pre-show festivities start on February 25th.

On Wednesday, February 26th the trade show doors blow open to over 200 exhibitors packed into two halls. Experts, authors, and speakers will dot the education program like push pins on a travel map. Raffle prizes and giveaways will conclude each afternoon - enter to win plane tickets, international treats, tech and gadgets, decor from the seven gardens, a brand new Vespa, or the international language: cash!

One major surprise will be to learn the new name and brand of the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association! Stop by the Membership booth the first day of the show for the big reveal and learn how you can play a starring role in our new brand.

Ziggy Zaggy, Ziggy Zaggy, oi oi oi! Just because the sun sets on iLandscape doesn’t mean the day is over. On Wednesday, join us for Oktoberfest - iLandscape style! German fingers foods and steins of German beer will be all the fest fuel you need. On Thursday, we will party Around the World with food, music, games, and activities from every corner of the map. And, after iLandscape bids you goodbye, auf wiedersehn, adios, au revoir, or sayonara enjoy the rest of your evening with friends - new and old.

We invite each and every one of you to travel with us at iLandscape 2025. Last call for boarding, your plane is at the gate, your travel itinerary begins after page 56.

Scott Grams, ILCA Executive Director

January 14, 2025

President Kim Hartmann

Rosborough Partners 847-404-7669 hartmannkim@comcast.net

Vice President Kevin McGowen Kaknes/SiteOne (630) 416-999 kevin@kaknes.com

Secretary-Treasurer

Ryan Heitman

The Fisher Burton Company (847) 566-9200 ryanheitman@fisherburton.com

Immediate Past President

Ashley Marrin Bret-Mar Landscape Management Group, Inc. (708) 301-2225 ashley@bretmarlandscape.com

Directors

Adam Bellas Bellas Landscaping (309) 827-5263 adam@bellaslandscaping.com

Jim Cirrincione Hinsdale Nurseries, Inc. (630) 323-1411 jcirrincione@hinsdalenurseries .com

Tom Klitzkie Nature’s Perspective Landscaping (847) 475-7917 tklitzkie@naturesperspective.com

Michael Massat The Growing Place Nursery & Flower Farm, Inc. (630) 355-4000 michaelm@thegrowingplace.com

Nikki Melin Midwest Groundcovers (847) 742-1790 nmelin@midwestgroundcovers.com

Becky Thomas Spring Grove Nursery, Inc. (815) 448-2097 bthomas@springrovenursery.com

Mark Utendorf Emerald Lawn Care, Inc. (847) 392-7097 marku@emeraldlawncare.com

Aaron Zych ILT Vignocchi, Inc. (847) 487-5200 azych@iltvignocchi.com

President’s Message —

What’s in a Name? Our History, Identity, Meaning. As the Illinois Landscape Contractor’s Association is on the verge of introducing our new name, new brand, new look, and new approach, we are filled with anticipation and excitement for the launch. Why? Because we continue to broaden our relationships with all the individuals, companies and clients that work together to create beautiful, usable, sustainable landscapes. Because we are enthusiastic about a fresh, future-focused approach that encompasses all the value and versatility we can bring to association members.

Why now? While considering a name change was part of our unification agreement with the Illinois Green Industry Association, we recognized the need to better reflect our landscape contractor relationships with suppliers, growers, and other strategic partners. We want our association name to better represent the full picture of all those that contribute to the professional landscaping process. We want a greater context for what we do as opposed to the name of a type of landscape company. Will a name change make a difference? As William Shakespeare wrote, “That which we call a rose, by any other name would smell as sweet.” Our Association continues to grow, to see increases in attendance at events and education, and has significant commitment from members. There is no shortage of people willing to participate on our many committees and volunteer for our programs. Our hope and expectation are that the new name and approach will make association membership even more compelling. The true value of our association lies in the diversity of people. Names distinguish us and the associations we choose to be part of.

Ultimately, it’s all about perceptions and connections – finding, making and understanding relationships between colleagues, companies, constituencies and communities that we create and maintain landscapes for. On behalf of the Board, the Name Change Task Force, ILCA Staff, and our marketing partners that put considerable time, effort and research into selecting and introducing our new association name, we thank you for embracing our new identity as it is launched at iLandscape.

Warmly, Kim

¿Qué hay en un nombre? Nuestra Historia, Identidad, Significado. Mientras la Asociación de Contratistas de Paisajes de Illinois está a punto de presentar nuestro nuevo nombre, nueva marca, nueva apariencia y nuevo enfoque, estamos llenos de anticipación y entusiasmo por el lanzamiento. ¿Por qué? Porque continuamos ampliando nuestras relaciones con todas las personas, empresas y clientes que trabajan juntos para crear paisajes hermosos, utilizables y sostenibles. Porque estamos entusiasmados con un enfoque nuevo y centrado en el futuro que abarque todo el valor y la versatilidad que podemos aportar a los miembros de la asociación.

¿Por qué ahora? Si bien considerar que un cambio de nombre era parte de nuestro acuerdo de unificación con la Asociación de la Industria Verde de Illinois, reconocimos la necesidad de reflejar mejor nuestras relaciones como contratistas de paisajismo con proveedores, productores y otros socios estratégicos. Queremos que el nombre de nuestra asociación represente mejor la imagen completa de todos aquellos que contribuyen al proceso de paisajismo profesional. Queremos un mayor contexto para lo que hacemos en lugar del nombre de un tipo de empresa de paisajismo.

¿Un cambio de nombre hará la diferencia? Como escribió William Shakespeare: «Lo que llamamos rosa, con cualquier otro nombre olería igual de dulce». Nuestra Asociación continúa creciendo, viendo aumentos en la asistencia a eventos y educación, y tiene un compromiso significativo por parte de los miembros. No faltan personas dispuestas a participar en nuestros numerosos comités y ser voluntarias en nuestros programas. Nuestra esperanza y expectativa es que el nuevo nombre y enfoque hagan que la membresía en la asociación sea aún más atractiva. El verdadero valor de nuestra asociación reside en la diversidad de personas. Los nombres nos distinguen a nosotros y a las asociaciones de las que elegimos formar parte.

www.ilca.net

En última instancia, se trata de percepciones y conexiones: encontrar, establecer y comprender relaciones entre colegas, empresas, distritos electorales y comunidades para las que creamos y mantenemos paisajes. En nombre de la Junta, el Grupo de Trabajo sobre Cambio de Nombre, el personal de ILCA y nuestros socios de marketing que dedicaron mucho tiempo, esfuerzo e investigación a seleccionar e presentar el nuevo nombre de nuestra asociación, les agradecemos por adoptar nuestra nueva identidad tal como se lanza en iLandscape. Atentamente,

Kim

Kim Hartmann

The Barn Group, Inc. • Barrington Elegant Oasis

Our lot transformation was a masterful fusion of design and construction, aimed at crafting a sophisticated, spaceefficient outdoor entertaining haven.

We strategically began by relocating the pool incorporating a masonry wall adorned with LED lighting. Long-blooming hydrangeas and espalier-shaped European hornbeams created the backdrop.

The pool deck featuring Valders Dove White and bluestone, while a repurposed dry well was transformed into a putting green. A grand outdoor fireplace and a TV were added, along with

a pergola made from large steel I-beams and cedar to provide shade from the summer sun.

The front entrance boasts a heated concrete driveway and randomly patterned bluestone porch and walkway. Garden walls enclosed the front yard, featuring three water scuppers and a pondless waterfall for ambiance.

Throughout the property columnar trees and crushed blue granite gravel in planting beds maintained a clean, low-maintenance look. Our project exceeded our client’s expectations, delivering a space-efficient outdoor haven.

Special Feature Series —

The Life of Roy

From Berwyn to Burlington and around the

world

Foreward

Just about one year ago, I attended the Midwest Natural Garden anniversary event. Roy Diblik was one of the featured speakers. Roy is no stranger to me or the pages of this magazine. Roy and countless articles about his passion for plants have graced these pages since the early 2000s. On this near 90 degree day, Roy was scheduled to have a fireside chat with attendees.

This was no joke. Assembled in a circle of upturned logs was Roy, holding court with 30 friends and followers. And yes, there was a fire. He held this group spellbound as he described his adolescent beginnings, through his prodigious life in the plant kingdom. I knew we had to bring this story to a wider audience.

I’m happy to introduce the second installment of Roy’s personal memoir.

Rick Reuland, Editor

by Nina A. Koziol

Little did the Maestro of Modern Planting Design, Roy Diblik, have an inkling that he’d have an impact on the landscaping world when he was in high school. Growing up in Berwyn, a Chicago suburb, he said, “After high school, I figured I’d go to Sportsman’s Bar, you’d play pong, have kids, get an apartment. I knew I wasn’t going to be a printer.”

His father worked at a large printing company and, after work, he’d run a printing press at home in the basement. “That was so he could earn enough to put my sister and me through college,” Roy said. “I knew I didn’t want to be a printer because I could see where he worked—so noisy—the presses always running. But, I helped him clean all the presses at home. Every time I did that, it reaffirmed that I was not going to be a printer. I really had no goals, but my dad told me, ‘When you get out of Western [Illinois University], you’re not coming back.’ No one moved back to their house then—I knew that. But sophomore year, my bedroom became a sewing room.”

After high school, Diblik worked a night job for three years for a grocery store chain making countless loaves of bread and donuts on huge machines and big ovens. “The money was good—$3.65 an hour in 1972, but then I had to quit softball and baseball. When you get your first taste of money you think you’re rich—I thought why would I go to college?” He changed his tune after his mother asked if he wanted to do that for the rest of his life.

College

While attending Western Illinois University from 1971 to 1975, he met his first mentor, Dr. Frank Lupton. “He was someone who cared about what I was going to be. He was tremendously engaging, he was fun, he made everything you did joyful. At the Hyatt, Dr. Lupton rappelled down the elevator shaft.” Roy turned to the school’s Park and Recreation curriculum.

(continued on page 14)

Roy in humble reflection of his career

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We are the premier shade tree grower in the Chicagoland area with of 400 acres of quality field-grown nursery stock .

We are the premier shade tree grower in the Chicagoland area with 400 acres of quality field-grown nursery stock.

We are the premier shade tree grower in the Chicagoland area with of 400 acres of quality field-grown nursery stock

Cedar Path Nurseries has two conveniently located sales yards, Lockport and Barrington, to better serve our clients.

Cedar Path Nurseries is conveniently located in Lockport to serve our clients.

Cedar Path Nurseries carries a full line of B&B trees and shrubs, container shrubs, perennials and groundcovers. Not only are we your onestop -shop, but we are sourcing experts. We look forward to assisting on your next project.

Cedar Path Nurseries has two conveniently located sales yards, Lockport and Barrington, to better serve our clients.

Cedar Path Nurseries carries a full line of B&B trees and shrubs, container shrubs, perennials and groundcovers. Not only are we your onestop-shop, but we are sourcing experts. We look forward to assisting on your next project. Growers & Distributors of Quality Nursery Stock

We are the premier shade tree grower in the Chicagoland area with of 400 acres of quality field-grown nursery stock .

Cedar Path Nurseries has two conveniently located sales yards, Lockport and Barrington, to better serve our clients.

Cedar Path Nurseries carries a full line of B&B trees and shrubs, container shrubs, perennials and ground covers. We are, not only your one-stop shop, but we are also sourcing experts. We look forward to assisting on your next project.

Cedar Path Nurseries carries a full line of B&B trees and shrubs, container shrubs, perennials and groundcovers. Not only are we your onestop-shop, but we are sourcing experts. We look forward to assisting on your next project.

Cedar Path Nurseries carries a full line of B&B trees and shrubs, container shrubs, perennials and groundcovers. Not only are we your onestop-shop, but we are sourcing experts. We look forward to assisting on your next project.

Lockport, Illinois

Lockport, Illinois

Barrington, Illinois

Barrington, Illinois

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15235 W. Bruce Road, Lockport, IL 60491 Office 815.838

15235 W. Bruce Road, Lockport, IL 60491 Office 815.838

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190 W. Penny Road, Barrington, IL 60010 Office 847.551.3700 | Fax 847.551.3707

Office 815.838- 4900 |Fax 815.838.4999

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190 W. Penny Road, Barrington, IL 60010 Office 847.551.3700 | Fax 847.551.3707

190 W. Penny Road, Barrington, IL 60010

Office 847.551.3700 | Fax 847.551.3707

SALES@CEDARPATH.NET | WWW.CEDARPATH.NET

SALES@CEDARPATH.NET | WWW.CEDARPATH.NET

Special Feature Series —

(continued from page 12)

“I thought I could be a park ranger at a national park. That could be cool. I’d be set for life because you never leave.”

In his sophomore year, he wrote a letter to every western national park inquiring about summer openings. “The only thing open was a gift shop position at Mammoth Cave and I didn’t want to run a gift shop. There was nothing.” He began attending national recreation conferences. “Dr. Lupton saw me at all these conferences and asked what I’d like to do.” Lupton encouraged him to attend outdoor programs. He soon switched his major to outdoor education. “I thought, this is my life—outdoors, oak trees. I didn’t know a plant from a door knob.”

While taking a camp counseling class, he spent one night outdoors at the WSU’s Horn Field, a 92-acre learning center surrounded by savannahoak woodlands, a restored prairie, foot trails, and a historic lodge and cabins. “I’d never slept outside. We weren’t a camping family. I had no equipment or anything.” The instructor told students to bring food. “I brought a flank steak and two giant plastic garbage bags to sleep on.” Thankfully, someone brought an extra sleeping bag. When the instructor threw Roy’s steak on the campfire coals, he was confused. “She turned it over on the coals and blew the ashes off. It was the best steak I ever had.”

Rock On

A job washing pots and pans at the dorm gave him spending money. He’d drive his VW to a local state park with a six pack of beer. “I went there all the time with my friends to talk about life. There was also a farm with a big porch and music and people everywhere. They had on clothes

with flowers sewn on the bottom of their pants and their hats. I haven’t changed. I’m wearing the same clothes — t-shirts and work boots. It was one of the best times I ever had.”

All of this led to an outdoor education degree with a minor in geology. “We went to the La Moine River, (a 125-mile-long tributary of the Illinois River in western Illinois) and the Mississippi River to chip rocks — quartzite or schist — and learn the history of the area.”

When Lupton suggested Roy go on a field trip to St. Louis, it was an eye opener. “There were things that I never thought I’d have an interest in and they were not half bad. Another instructor and his wife did square dancing and I thought, ah nah, but then when you’re there with all those people…it rubs off on you. They were very good at it.”

While on a trip to the Atwood Center in Rockford, students slept on the gymnasium floor and were a bit surprised when Dr. Lupton popped in super early. “He’d say, OK, everybody, we’re getting up. The birds are singing, the sun is shining, and it’s a great day to be alive. He’d say that all the time. That was Lupton’s morning walk to watch the light change.”

The Great Zamboni

When Roy considered an internship at Land Between the Lakes in Tennessee, Lupton discouraged him. “You need to find an organization or park district and you need to experience every facet of it — you need to experience programming, administration, the park department and facilities—you need to experience everything.” And so Lupton recommended the St. (continued on page 16)

Educator Dr. Frank Lupton a force guiding Roy’s early career choices

Roy during a recent interview walking through Schulenberg Prairie at The Morton Arboretum

Special Feature Series —

(continued from page 14)

Charles Park District. “You’re out in the country, he said. He was right. I took North Avenue all the way and it was pretty rural in ’75. Two stoplights — Rt. 31 and Randall Road.”

His internship was the fall of 1975. “I experienced everything and that’s where I met Craig Sensor, head of the parks department. He was young—just got out of Iowa State. I had to go there every morning and write up a little report for Dr. Lupton. Craig was transforming the parks to be more contemporary and with new signage. I could be a part of all that.”

Although Roy didn’t want to leave the St. Charles area after his internship, he took a job as an ice rink monitor. “I skated around and took care of stuff. Then they trained me to run the Zamboni and I thought, oh this is too good.” Next, he went to Glen Ellyn and ran an indoor hockey program for 8-year-olds. “I

had two jobs that could get me enough money to pay for the rent. That spring the ground supervisor position opened up and Craig asked him if he would apply for the job. “I’d only run a push mower on a lot and I never drove a stick shift.” And thus his position as grounds supervisor began in 1977. “Now I was making $3.85 to start and that was like wow! I found an apartment in Geneva, Illinois.” And that’s when things get really interesting. More to come.

Missed the first installment?

Read it here:

Eyes Front —

Spheres of Influence

By Mark Dwyer

I’m a big fan of gazing balls and I’m not ashamed by that admission. I realize they can be an acquired taste and are lumped into some of the retro-landscaping we normally associate with the 70s and 80s, along with plastic pink flamingos. However, my mom always had a blue gazing ball out in the garden and it was mesmerizing. Something about that perfectly spherical beacon of color caught the eye, and occasionally, the errant soccer ball. I just learned that gazing balls (aka lawn balls and yard globes) originated in 13th century Venice as hand-blown glass ornaments. Well, that’s an impressive track record but I digress, as usual.

While our landscapes are undoubtably and understandably focused on beauty and function, texture and form shouldn’t be overlooked in our spaces. In particular, I’m a huge proponent of using spherical elements in the landscape as their smooth symmetry is impactful and effective, as a focal point, repeated element or simply a “subtle touch” to add some flair. These elements can and should include plant materials as well as non-living components (like the well-placed gazing ball!?). The human eye has a very strong connection with

circular forms and the sphere is no exception. This smooth form, regardless of actual size can unify a composition with specific intention.

I’ve suggested and recommended the use of spherical forms in many of my landscape designs over the years. It’s important to note that the incorporation of that spherical form in any context should harmonize with the intended beauty of the garden and doesn’t necessarily imply a rigid, formal layout. The sphere form might be represented by a bulb, perennial or annual that provides that captivating flower shape for a certain duration of time. Non-living elements, like the gazing ball, would have a more consistently lengthy contribution in the garden as would, say, a spherically maintained boxwood or compact conifer. Spheres and their repeated usage will draw the eye, add energy and flow to the landscape and perhaps even serve as “destinational guidance” or invitation to move through the landscape by functioning as intriguing focal points.

Spheres have a pleasing flow to their shape and obviously look the same from every angle. This allows their consid-

Influence

eration, in terms of selection and placement, to take full advantage of myriad view angles to that perfectly balanced, uniform shape (regardless of size or mass). The visual harmony of spheres, like a mass of ornamental onions (Allium sp.), conveys not only beauty but maximizes the threedimensionality of our gardens. In the case of the ornamental onions, they further contribute the organic impression of “floating” or “hovering” in the garden and defying gravity. Here are some spherical examples for consideration out in the landscape.

Spherical Flowers

In my earliest landscape design years, I had a mentor suggest that I should be looking beyond flower color and progression of bloom and really hone in further on flower architecture. I remember him saying that flowers come in different shapes, like spires, flat daisies, trumpets, buttons and spheres. This is obvious but likely not a typical consideration when plant features such as color, bloom time, texture, seasonal interest, etc. are being weighed. He sold me further on the importance of “hovering spheres” from flowers in the landscape and that’s likely why I’m a huge ornamental onion (Allium sp.) fan and lean on other flowers with that tight umbel arrangement in which the sphere is formed by many flowers in tight proximity (typically excellent for pollinators as well). Not surprisingly, strong, narrow flower forms adding verticality and scale were also stressed which could also be its own article!

The fall-planted ornamental onions, of which there are many selections, that bloom in late spring and early summer (i.e. ‘Globemaster’, ‘Mt. Everest’, ‘Purple Sensation’, A. giganteum, etc.) offer amazing impact of color and form. The summer blooming onions, like ‘Summer Beauty’, ‘Millenium’, ‘Big Beauty’, ‘Windy City’, ‘Serendipity’, etc., carry on the “spherical show” and have the added benefit of deer resistance. I’m also a big fan of the various globe thistles (Echinops sp.) for their summer impact in shades of blue and white although do be wary of potential reseeding issues. One of my top five, all-time, favorite perennials, is the native rattlesnake master (Eryngium yuccifolium) which offers that classic hovering of many spherical, white flowers above rigid, blue foliage. Additionally, some annuals have spherical flowers but none more uniform than Billy buttons (Craspedia globosa). This is a common flower in bouquets (continued on page 20)

Callitropsis nootkatensis ‘Green Arrow’

Callitropsis nootkatensis ‘Green Arrow’

Eyes Front —

(continued from page 19) and definitely invites closer inspection. Globe amaranths (Gomphrena sp.) also have a pleasing form that does lean a bit towards a more elongated sphere (ovoid).

In terms of spherical flower clusters on trees and shrubs in the Midwest, a slam-dunk is the interesting white, summer flowers of the native buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis). This underutilized, tough shrub needs more attention and use in the landscape. Breeding efforts have brought to market many more compact forms (Sugar Shack®, Magical® Moonlight and Fiber Optics®) that will nestle nicely in the landscape. Some viburnums and hydrangeas offer “near-spherical” clustered flower contributions and certainly have many popular uses throughout the landscape.

Spherical Shrubberies

While I have yet to run into a shrub that is naturally a perfect sphere, there are many that are quite close or can be trimmed to tighten up that shape. While boxwoods (Buxus sp.) have their challenges and valid concerns, they are still quite popular and their durability and resiliency in the garden is without question. The use of boxwoods, while common in formal hedging and topiary, doesn’t always indicate a formal garden setting as it’s all in the context in how they are placed and utilized.

In terms of conifers, yews (Taxus) are another option for trimming. Older specimens, in time, might become challenging for maintaining foliage cover on the lower curves of the spherical form. Poodle or pom pom junipers (usually Juniperus chinensis selections) can also offer multiple spheres but are certainly on that spectrum of higher maintenance with the need for reliable and timely attention to maintain this contrived form. Of course, continual maintenance of these shrubs in the spherical form implies that the homeowner or (continued on page 22)

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Stoneleaf Nursery Eureka, IL • 309-261-7008

Eyes Front —

(continued from page 20) caretakers of those plants are aware of necessary inputs and on top of the schedule for frequent and skilled shaping. This may not be of interest to all of our clients but the tightest spherical forms on woody plants are most frequently associated with a higher level of attention which we can certainly provide as a feebased service. While many shrubs offer a naturally rounded look (still nice in the landscape), some compact, dwarf and miniature conifer species and varieties also offer a tighter spherical form.

Spherical Knickknacks

As I was searching for various photos to support this article, unsurprisingly, I didn’t have a shortage of selections (including, likely, every gazing ball I’ve run across…). Aside from flowers and shrubs that address that spherical contribution of form, there are many other non-living elements that can contribute to a cohesive landscape arrangement. Of course, many of these items relate to the personal, subjective flair of the homeowner and their taste. The valid inclusion of these elements in the landscape can sustain those “spherical echoes” for lengthy durations or even year-round. Aside from gazing balls, I’ve run across the use of cast concrete, terra cotta or stone ball finials on pillars or simply placed in the garden. All manner of metal spheres (steel, wrought iron, etc.) of different sizes can be utilized in the garden and again, will echo the spherical form provided by plant materials. Tastefully created spheres made of willow (Salix sp.) and dogwood (Cornus) branches or even grape vines, while ephemeral, can offer impact as well. The ambiguous term of “garden art” will mean different things to different folks but the opportunity to include spherical objects of various materials and scale is available and vast. While our design suggestions may not include details on these supplemental “knickknacks”, we can certainly convey our interest to clients in repeating strong form (i.e. spheres) within the garden that they can further augment as desired (or guided).

Conclusions

I’m not “sphere-centric” with all of my designs as there are certain garden styles that wouldn’t be as reliant on spheres and may have a focus on a different form. An example would be a tight, side garden where vertical elements are a primary consideration to maximize space while also mitigating the scale of the structure in that limited space. Echoing spherical flower forms and mixing up variable flower architecture will continue to be a personal mission but the recognition of the power and impact of spheres in the garden shouldn’t be ignored as it relates further to woody plant selections and myriad non-living, well-placed elements. Not everyone likes gazing balls but very few don’t immediately notice their shapely and colorful presence in the garden.

Babylon Chicago A Peaceful Retreat— The Rooftop Terrace at the Ambassador

By Heather Prince

Tucked on the Gold Coast, a historic former hotel turned into luxury condominiums offers a peaceful leafy retreat above the bustling Chicago streets. Thoughtfully constructed atop the parking structure, this 60 by 120 square foot garden has become a treasured amenity that provides a green oasis for residents. We talked with Annette Held, Principal at Annette Held Landscape Design, about this signature project that she and her team installed 18 years ago and have beautifully maintained since then.

The

Brief

“The Ambassador was a very historic and storied hotel for years and years before it was converted to condos,” recalled Held. “I knew the developer from working on his personal home. He tried working with a couple of other firms, but things fell through, and they were getting very close to the end of the build out. They needed to have this green roof

done. So, he asked me if I would be interested, and I sort of naively and foolishly said yes. There was an excellent architect and project manager, and we all collaborated within our areas of expertise to pull it together.”

The rooftop or terrace garden sits on the north side of the building, about two stories up nestled within six-foot brick walls for additional privacy from neighboring buildings. It is designed to be a place for residents to recreate, with a grill area, dog run, patio spaces, and alcoves for those who might want to read a book or enjoy a coffee. The space is accessed from the building’s workout area, so it is a bit of a destination. “It’s meant to be a little bit more casual looking than the rest of the building as that structure is very formal,” observed Held. “The pergolas and trellises are built from cedar. The seating is informal. It’s meant to be a low-key, comfortable space.”

The residents are a mix of empty nesters, individuals, couples, and families. “It’s been interesting seeing the (continued on page 26)

Babylon Chicago

(continued from page 25)

resident mix change over time,” said Held. “When the building first opened, it was mainly people who were becoming empty nesters and sole owners, but over the years there have been more families moving in. Now, there’ll be many gatherings out there. There’s a little area of river rock that we have to rearrange every once in a while, because the kids have played with the stones. We have one area that was supposed to be a putting green that never got installed and now they’re talking about perhaps making that a children’s play area.”

The Challenges

Like many rooftop garden projects, materials had to be loaded via freight elevator and crane. Fortunately, Held’s team installed it before the building was completed, so they didn’t have to deal with navigating costly finishes on floors or walls. “We probably spent two to three months planning the logistics of it before we actually started executing.” One of the lessons Held took from this project to her deep portfolio of rooftops and terraces, was pricing job time. “What do we need for a project? How are you going to get up there and how much time is it going to take? I’ve learned that now when I look at a roof project, I time myself when I’m going up and down. How long does it take to get down the hallway,

up the elevator, out the door, and up the steps? I time that and then figure out how many loads we are going to have to deal with to get our materials where they need to go. It’s so important to build that into your costs.”

One of the early challenges was watering. “Initially, we didn’t get very much money to build it. Some of the elements we’ve had to retrofit over the years, and at the beginning we ended up using very cheap soaker hoses,” commented Held. “One of the building maintenance staff would turn them on for about two hours at a time. And there was a big portion of one of the planting areas that died because it just got drowned. Once we figured out this guy’s overzealous watering habit, things settled in and have really done well.”

Unlike many roof spaces, this serene oasis is protected from the brunt of the wind. However, the building is just a few blocks from Lake Michigan, so it does receive its fair share of Chicago winter weather. “We planned for about 10 to 15 pounds of snow load, but one winter it got about 23 inches of heavy, wet snow and we had to remind them to shovel,” remembered Held.

Held has also found that communication is key when maintaining a rooftop garden. From the residents to the building staff, each has certain expectations about garden spaces that may or may not work with a green roof. “Every time a new engineer or building manager starts, we go over

Babylon Chicago

how the green roof is different from the rest of the grounds at grade level. You always have to educate people because they likely haven’t had an experience with a green roof before.” Over the years, Held has also dealt with resident expectations for the space. “It takes a lot of educating people to understand how a green roof works. New residents sell their house, they move into the building, and they expect that the maintenance will be executed in the same way it was done in their yard. And so, every couple of years we revisit what you can and cannot do with a green roof. We had a request to mulch it this spring and we had to explain why we don’t do that. It opened their eyes in terms of understanding that rooftops are a very different animal versus something that’s planted in the ground.”

The Result

Babylon Chicago

The north elevation keeps the site shady, so once you step into the gardens, it is a cool, serene space. Held planted trees, shrubs, and perennials 18 years ago that are still thriving, so the plantings feel mature and knit together. Three Kousa dogwoods offer elegant architecture, spring flowers, and red fruits beloved by the building’s dogs. Serviceberries add grace notes above layers of ferns. PeeGee hydrangeas have grown to be stately specimens. Past the initial patio and pergola, two planting areas fondly called The Meadows are planted with northern sea oats, sedum, vinca, astilbe, turtlehead and heuchera for a tapestry of texture. A sprinkling of seasonal annuals provide flower color as a fountain creates a soundscape to hide the noise of Chicago traffic. “I try to have a succession of blooming color up there,” said Held. “Spring is rather pink, summer is more yellows and purples, and fall things turn red, orange, and yellow.”

One of the busiest spots is the dog run. Screened by Holmstrup arborvitae and accessed by a gate, this section features ground rubber mulch in a cocoa brown color that is pet-friendly. “It’s a favorite amenity of the residents and is used constantly, no matter the season,” reported Held. “The rubber is easy on paws and also easy to clean and maintain. We tried to delineate areas more with plant material rather than fencing. I really wanted people to feel like even though they’re on a roof, it feels like they’re sitting in a garden.

With being involved in the site for many years, Held is pleased that the plants have thrived, especially the trees. She has grown attached to the space and the plantings. “I like it that the people who live there are attached to the plants, too. The residents view the garden as very much theirs,” she observed. “There are people who have lived in the building since the beginning. They have grown accustomed to the dogwoods being gorgeous at a certain point in the year. They look forward to the hydrangeas blooming later in the summer. One of my philosophies as a landscaper is: it’s not my garden, it’s your garden. And it’s really important to me that people become attached to and love their gardens.”

The Pros at Home— A Continuing Series

A Visit in the Gardens of Frank Mariani

Editor’s Note: This is another in a series of articles that feature the home landscapes of green industry professionals—ILCA members, plant breeders, nursery owners, public garden staff and educators. After all, who wouldn’t like a little peek at what peers are doing around their own homes?

by Nina A. Koziol

This past summer, Frank Mariani stood in his elegant 2,800-square-foot vegetable garden and lamented, “It’s been the worst year—the squirrels have been eating the tomatoes—rabbits, chipmunks, and squirrels. I saw a coyote the other day that looked like a cow.” For a very avid gardener-cook, critters can be annoying, but the site was stunning and looked fruitful as always.

Frank and his wife, Sherri, bought the 1929 Tudor house and 10 acres in 1986 on his wife’s birthday. At that time, overgrown trees hugged the foundation and buckthorn covered the lawn. The couple did much of the renovation themselves, indoors and out. “Nothing was done 20 years before

we bought the house,” Frank explained. “The plaster and stucco was coming off.” A pleasant surprise was the discovery in the attic of design plans done by landscape architect Jens Jensen in 1934 when the property was a 35-acre estate. “It was originally part of a 1,500-acre cattle farm and there were all sorts of garages throughout the property.” Their home retains its rural feel with site lines that look onto wide-open space—a sweeping prairie, a trail and a dog park.

Beginnings

Frank’s green industry experience began while in first grade, helping at his grandfather’s nursery—John Fiore and

Sons in West Lake Forest, which was established in 1915. “I had it made. I spent tons of time with my grandparents. I learned how to drive all the tractors. I loved working for my grandfather in the nursery.” One day, his grandfather told the eight-year-old Frank, ‘Mr. Brickman is coming to get oaks.’ His grandfather told him to get cash from the client. “I loaded the truck and asked Mr. Brickman for ten $100 bills—no checks—like my grandfather said. He broke out laughing.”

When he was 16, he worked at an auto body shop and the owner was so impressed with his skills that he showed up at Frank’s house because he wanted him to become a partner. “I assumed everybody was like me.” And by that, he means hard-working and focused. His father, Vito, started a lawnmaintenance service in 1958. But when Frank was 17 (and the oldest with five brothers and a sister), Vito was diagnosed with leukemia. He spent the last year of his life teaching Frank about the business.

As the eldest, Frank’s life suddenly took a detour and he skipped college. Instead, he took classes and seminars on his own. In 1973, when his father died, the firm was doing $90,000 in revenue. “I’ve been running the company longer than he lived. When I built the Mariani Premier Group, we grew to $60 million. I never had a plan to get to that.” It has been quite a ride and he continues to build the firm with acquisitions.

The Garden

While growing up in a large Italian family, Sunday dinners were a regular event and that continues today, despite his heavy travel schedule every week. “It’s not unusual for 20 people to be here. You build the menu off what’s in the garden. I’ll stuff poblano peppers with shrimp and quinoa or with spicy Italian sausage.” Peaches, figs, toasted pine nuts and cheese on a bed of arugula are another favorite dish. The fig trees date to 1915 and began as cuttings his grandfather took in southern Italy.

When he’s in town, the couple hosts dinner parties, often on the pergola-covered patio. The menus are spontaneous during the growing season, based on the vegetable garden. Frank says, with some modesty, that he makes a fabulous zucchini soup. “I take some leeks and onions out of the garden, chop them and sauté in olive oil with whatever herbs are around, and add vegetable stock. And I’ve got every kind of pepper along with fennel and basil. I’ve been playing with more recipes. Right now I’m into beets.” He grills or fries banana peppers and the outdoor kitchen gets a frequent workout. The bee hives produced 20 gallons of honey last year.

Chemicals are forbidden in the vegetable garden. “The environment is so much better without them. I believe my dad’s cancer was from chemicals.” Decades ago, at his grandfather’s nursery, it was a different story. “We mixed 2,4-D (herbicide) in barrels with our bare arms!”

(continued on page 34)

The Pros at Home— A Continuing Series

(continued from page 33)

He credits long-time employee, Jim Osborne, for his work on the potager— Frank’s elegant kitchen garden. “I’m very lucky to have Jim. He’s one of the finest horticulturists I’ve ever met.”

Shortly after establishing the vegetable garden, Frank embarked on designing a perennial border perpendicular to the house. Enclosed on two sides by yew hedges, the borders open onto a spectacular view of the vegetable garden and beyond. In the spring, the woodland is filled with trillium and other wildflowers. A rustic arbor was used at the Chicago Flower and Garden Show one year. Potted tropicals grace the path leading to the cut-flower borders. Dahlias are a favorite blooming from June through Thanksgiving. Zinnias and cosmos also make their way into Sherri’s indoor arrangements.

Business Savvy

The ability to hire the right people is one of the things Frank credits to his success. “I knew I could hire people smarter than me. Even though I’m traveling a lot, I love seeing our projects in person. We have a great landscape (continued on page 36)

The Pros at Home —

(continued from page 34)

architecture team.” The company culture has led to many long-time employees. “I always hired people for a career, not a job. We have some laborers who have been with us for 50 years.” There are 53 employees with more than 25 years on the job and some with 40 years.”

Business comes from clients, architects and interior designers.

“And, from some of the best general contractors. I never worried about the money—just do a great job. We’re really fortunate to have the people we have.” Frank’s garden is used as a laboratory and training site for some of the 125 crews. “Crews train here so they can make mistakes instead of at clients’ gardens.”

(continued on page 38)

Llámenos a Mariani Plants: 866-627-4264 / marianiplants.com

Mariani Plants se enorgullese en su attencion al cliente. Tenemos expertos ajentes de ventas de habla hispana en nuestras dos localidades, Kenosha Wisconsin y Garden Prairie Illinois. Mariani Plants esta aquí para proveerle mejores plantas, mejor servicio y mejor selección. TODOS JUNTOS MEJOR.

The Pros at Home— A Continuing Series

(continued from page 36)

Future

Although he says he never plans to retire, he does plan to stop traveling in a couple of years. “I’ve never spent two days just being here and I’m not spending as much time here as I’d like to. I still like to cultivate the garden and plant a lot in spring. And, I’m thinking of Corten beds or doing the tomatoes in different pots.” His four grandchildren keep him busy, especially Joey, 6, and Anthony, 4. Frank put in a pond so the boys can fish in the summer. “They call me pops, and Joey brings his golf clubs and Anthony loves to dig.” Perhaps another Mariani generation will be hooked on the green industry. Time will tell.

Do you know someone in the industry with a unique or outstanding home landscape?

You can nominate them to be part of the Pros at Home Series. Contact Nina at:

Prebooks, Production Cycles, and Planning for Spring in the Nursery

by Krystal Flogel

The laws of quantum physics tell us that humans can’t exist in two places at once, but anyone who works in production has learned to defy these rules. To be effective in our industry, we need to have one foot in the present and one foot in the future at all times. The longer a crop’s production cycle, the further ahead we need to plan. And, at a nursery like ours with an outdoor growing range, winter adds about five months onto the production cycles of all our spring crops. That means we’re typically planning next year’s production, potting up next spring’s inventory, and focusing on hitting the current season’s sales projections, all in the middle of summer.

Spring Prebooks Help Us Identify Trends

The significance of spring in our industry can’t be overstated. It’s our most important season, and if we miss the mark during these crucial 10-12 weeks, it becomes nearly impossible to catch up over the remainder of the year (no pressure). So a major part of our production planning is centered around having the right product mix for late March, April, May, and early June. And one tool we use to guide our production decisions is the spring prebook process. While

our industry has shifted more and more to just-in-time ordering for summer and fall plant needs in recent years, the demand for prebooking spring material has remained strong. Prebook requests are invaluable to growers because they allow us to better understand our customers’ needs and adapt our production strategies to meet them. We use spring prebooks to gauge demand for the upcoming season against past years, and to track trends across product lines and customer type.

For example, over the past several springs, we’ve seen demand for Allium ‘Millenium’ steadily rise, while ‘Summer Beauty’ has lost traction. The demand for some traditional landscape plants, like Karl Foerster Feather Reed Grass and Annabelle Hydrangeas, remains remarkably consistent from one season to the next. At the same time, requests for newer varieties of branded Nepeta, like ‘Cat’s Pajamas’, have grown so quickly over the past few years that it’s been difficult for growers to keep up.

Although we typically wrap up production of our spring crops months before we begin to receive prebook requests from our customers, the information we get from them is valuable nonetheless. The numbers always have a story to tell if we know what to look for and we remember to consider the context. If we don’t

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Special Feature

(continued from page 40) get many prebook requests for a plant, we might conclude that it’s due to a decrease in demand, and there’s a good chance that is the reason. But if we look further and ask questions, we may find that there’s a glut of inventory on the market at the moment. Or maybe our customers prefer to order that variety from open inventory in spring. Other times, we come up short on inventory. And those situations can give us meaningful insight into missed opportunities.

Finding the Right Product Mix

Even when we recognize areas of missed opportunity, our production decisions are always influenced by the economic feasibility of crops and the limitations of our infrastructure or growing conditions. Warm season grasses are a case in point. Panicum, Miscanthus, and Pennisetum are always in high demand in the spring, but they require warm temperatures and long days to put on active growth. Since we don’t have the heated space to force warm season grasses at our nursery, we don’t intentionally plant those varieties for spring sales. The same is true for crops that are disease-prone or problematic to overwinter. If the cost or risk of growing a crop is too high, we have to err on the side of caution, even if that means losing a potential sale.

Broadly speaking, our spring inventory is made up of two types of plants: those that were deliberately planted for spring, and those we weren’t able to sell the previous season. Although an incredible amount of thought and preparation goes into developing our production schedule, as we all know, things don’t always go as planned. It’s inevitable that we’ll sell through some of our spring crops over the course of the previous fall, and we’ll always carry excess fall inventory over into the next season. Despite our best efforts, the truth is that we’ll never have the perfect inventory mix going into spring. But we mitigate this by understanding the strengths and weaknesses of our overwintered crops, making up shortages as soon as possible in spring, and maintaining a level of control over what we allocate onto orders. It’s best to only prebook the items we’re confident in, and hold marginal or questionable crops out of inventory until we can assess their quality in spring.

Production Cycles for Spring Crops Start Early

We can thank our Midwest climate for a host of challenges when it comes to nursery production, and one of them is a narrow production window. We typically begin potting our spring crops in June and finish by early August. Long-term crops, like Hostas, Carex, and Aruncus, are planted at the beginning of this timeline so they can establish healthy root systems before cold temperatures set in, while fast-growing crops like Salvia and Nepeta are planted last. Crops that aren’t fully rooted are more susceptible to cold injury and less likely to survive winter in the container,

LONGSHADOW

Crafted in Southern Illinois by The Artisans at Classic Garden Ornaments,

Hand

Special Feature

so planting too late is a risk we can’t afford to take. While we could safely pot many of our woody shrubs into late August, and even September, those plants wouldn’t be rooted and established in time for spring sales anyway. Because of this production timeline, we aren’t afforded much flexibility when it comes to fall requests for custom-grown spring inventory.

Plants Have An Expiration Date

Finally, we can’t have a conversation about spring inventory without discussing shelf life. Once the clock starts ticking in March or April, we have until late May or mid-June (at the latest) to ship out the bulk of our overwintered plant material, generally speaking. There are exceptions to this, of course. But by mid-June, many of these plants have been living in the same pot for close to a full year, they don’t look their best, and we have fresh new crops ready to sell. It’s because of this extremely tight window that we’re so deliberate about what we plant and what we make available for spring prebooks. And so, we continually have our sights set on finding just the right balance. This

means determining the right product mix - one that guarantees we’ll be able to supply the bread and butter plants to both landscape contractors and garden centers, yet includes enough variety for customers to get excited about. And it means identifying that magic number for each crop: the quantity that is just enough but not more than we can ship out within that crucial spring timeframe.

And now, here we are again, with trade show season in full force and another spring just around the corner. I always love the pre-season energy that defines this time of year; it’s a mix of excitement and confidence tempered with varying degrees of uncertainty. For all our careful planning, we can never fully prepare for what the new year will have in store for us, the good or the bad. The circumstances of our nursery are, by no means, the same for all growers. But our industry is stronger when we all succeed, and greater success can come from better communication. The more we can do to educate one another about our unique challenges, and to understand the “why” behind the “what”, the more we can work together to find solutions and opportunities.

No Party Like an ILCA PArty

Annual Party and Member Meeting

Draws Another Lively Crowd

by Meta Levin

Steve Raczak couldn’t stay away. Just two weeks after rotator cuff surgery, his arm still immobilized and, in a sling, he attended the ILCA Annual Meeting and Party at Joe’s Live in Rosemont. “I don’t think I’ve missed any of these,” he said.

Raczak, outside sales representative for Twixwood Nursery, LLC, was holding court from a table right in the path of those going to and from the bar and the buffet. “The networking here is second to none,” he said as he greeted people who stopped by to say hello.

He was one of more than 400 people who showed up to eat, drink and be merry, honoring companies who had been ILCA members for 50 and 25 years and celebrating the year’s achievements. In the crowd were Ryan and KC Baker, owners of R&M Snowplowing and Lawn Service LLC, feted as ILCA’s one thousandth member. “We can see what powerful networking and learning opportunities ILCA offers,” said Baker.

Membership Chair Aaron Zych attended via a video, dressed as a jester, while ILCA President Ashley Marrin and Vice President Kim Hartmann were in person to applaud ILCA’s major successes this year. Their list included:

1. ILCA’s one thousandth member. In the last 10 years, ILCA has added 300 members. The ILCA private Facebook group is comprised of 1000 membes too, according to Marrin.

2. The Women’s Networking Group hosted a successful LIFT Summit, a day and a half event designed to build tools for emotional intelligence, leadership, and business management

3. The 2024 iLandscape was the largest ever, with 6,700 attendees

4. Members can access educational opportunities online through Bloom, a comprehensive video library

5. ILCA and IGIA unified, with Kellie Schmidt in her second year as statewide director of development. ILCA held its first statewide pruning workshop, and networking and educational events blossomed across four regions, statewide.

“It’s been a really big year for ILCA, because we accom-

plished so much,” says Marrin. While most of the attendees spent the time networking and reflecting on their own accomplishments during 2024, Marrin and Hartmann also wanted to remind them what ILCA had done for them during the year, as well as to honor some longtime members.

Schmidt was pleased with the gathering. “There is real energy in our organization,” she said. “People are excited to get together and connect.” She emphasized that while there were a lot of people in the room who owned or worked for companies who were competitors, at the party “we gather as friends. That is unique to our industry.”

For Billy Oliver of Night Light, Inc., Associate Chair of the membership committee, this was a happy evening. “It’s a great time of year,” he says. This is his seventh year on the membership committee and he believes that events like the Annual Meeting and Party are key to underscoring the value of an ILCA membership. Attendees can talk with each other in a relaxed setting, he noted, making contacts and exchanging information.

Participants cheered for all three Committee of the Year nominees: Design Committee, chaired by Jason Lundberg and Robert Milani; Fire & Ice Committee, chaired by Jessica Riedell and Bob Bertog and InVigorateU Committee, chaired by Pete Worth and Meagan Provencher.

Provencher was thrilled when the InVigorateU Committee was tapped as Committee of the Year. “It’s exciting to be recognized,” she says. “I hope everyone signs up for the next one in Bloomington-Normal. It’s a little conference that has grown into something special, an intimate way to connect around plants.” And, oh yes, play trivia. That, she says, is the “best part.”

Ashley Marrin ILCA Past President

Kim Hartmann ILCA President

Scott Grams ILCA Executive Director

Raczak was particularly pleased with the choice of the InVigorateU Committee as the winner, because he had recently joined the group. “It’s a great group of people,” he said.

Jessica Dabrowski, who is a salesperson for Osco Oil, was thrilled with the party and ILCA in general. “Even though there were competitors at the Women’s Networking Group meeting, I learned a lot and I just loved it,” she says. “I love the landscape and horticulture industry.”

Marrin and Hartmann tipped their hats to Countryside Industries and Wilson Nurseries and Landscape Supply, both of whom joined ILCA in 1974 and this year became part of the 50-year membership club.

Fifteen members were honored for their 25 years of continuous ILCA membership:

• A Safe Haven Landscaping

• Clark-Lindsey Village

• Clesen Wholesale

• Davey Resource Group

• Hirsch Brick & Stone

• Kramer Tree Specialists

• Landscape Creations

• Larry Asimauve Landscaping

• Listerman & Associates

• Olsick Insurance Group

• RYCO Landscaping

• Schloss Company

• Skokie Park District

• TimberRidge Landscaping

• Wright Landscaping

For Sam Thiem and Alan Seal, both of Kramer Tree Specialists, one of those honored as quarter century ILCA members, this was not their first annual meeting and party. “It’s always fun,” said Seal, sales manager for Kramer. “This event is probably best for networking. I can talk with decision makers here.”

Thiem, who works in marketing for Kramer, also pointed to the networking as being the prime reason he attends the event. “I wanted to meet with others in the industry,” he says.

Becky Thomas of Spring Grove Nursery, who came out of IGIA and now is a new ILCA board member, was delighted to be surrounded by others in the industry. “We all are connected by plants and landscaping,” she said. “I have so many friends in the industry.”

Milestone Member Years

A Safe Haven

Landscaping

25 Years

Committee of the Year

L to R:

Clare Longfellow

Committee members

Kellie Schmidt, Staff Liaison, Devon Kane, Cathy Schroeder, Kim Hartmann, Kevin Collins, Meagan Provenchar, and Lauren Howell. Not pictured: Abby Jacobs and Pete Worth.

Tom Clesen Clesen Wholesale 25 Years

Jeff Kramer Kramer Tree Service 25 Years

Countryside Industries 50 Years

Andy Fick Wilson Nurseries 50 Years

Party Sponsors

Landscape Equipment

Multi-Purpose Tool Carriers

Sewer, Water & Wastewater Equipment

Street & Highway Equipment

Snow and Ice Equipment

Air and Hydro Excavators

Safety Equipment

Plumbing Equipment

Camera Inspection Systems

WORK SMARTER

Welcome from Scott Grams

iLandscape Show Director

iLandscape 2025: Gardens of the World

Pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to embark on a journey through the Gardens of the World at iLandscape 2025! Along with our 260 exhibitors across two packed halls, iLandscape will feature seven themed gardens representing Mexico, Japan, the Netherlands, France, Germany, England, and the American savannah. You’ll have the opportunity to experience unique international flavors through live entertainment, raffles, art and sculpture, giveaways, and cuisine throughout the show.

Our education program will offer more than 50 sessions, featuring experts and speakers from around the world to help you take your business to the next level. Speaking of the next level: our new Next Level Training Program debuts for Spanish speaking audiences! This is 2-days of Spanish-language education designed for crew leaders on up to supervisors. iLandscape is at the end of February this year which allows companies to bring their entire production teams.

Don’t miss the chance to join us for a week of inspiration, knowledge, and networking with the brightest minds in the landscaping industry. Then, tour the Gardens of the World to immerse yourself in horticulture design, style, and plants from around the globe.

Be part of the premier event that kicks off the 2025 landscaping season!

Premier Sponsor

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Visit Midwest Groundcovers in booth #1509. Visit Midwest Trading in booth #1409.

TU ESDAY January 31, 2023

TUESDAY February 25, 2025

WEDNESDAY February 26, 2025 THURSDAY February 27, 2025

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDA Y ry 1, 2023 February 2, 2023 February 3, 2023

FRIDAY February 28, 2025

Pre-Show Workshops 5:00pm - 9:00pm

Excellence in Landscape Awards Program

Education Sessions

Next Level Training — Spanish Language Education

Exhibit Hall Hours

8:00am -11:30am 12:00pm - 3:30pm 8:00am -12:30pm 9:00am - 4:30pm 4:30pm - 7:00pm

8:00am - 9:15am 9:45am -11:00am 1:00pm -1:50pm 2:10pm - 3:00pm

8:00am - 9:15am 9:45am -11:00am 1:00pm -1:50pm 2:10pm - 3:00pm 8:00am - 9:15am 9:45am -11:00am 11:30am -12:20pm 4:15pm - 4:30pm 4:15pm - 4:30pm 1:00pm - 1:30pm 8:00am -11:30am 9:00am - 4:30pm 9:00am - 2:00pm

Raffles & Giveaways German Fest Party Around the World 4:30pm - 6:30pm 10:00am -10:30am Student Design Competition Awards

Next Level Training— Spanish Language Education

SPANISH LANGUAGE SESSIONS REQUIRE ADDITIONAL REGISTRATION

Wednesday, February 26

8:00AM - 12:30PM

Nirvana A

Thursday, February 27

8:00AM - 11:30AM

Utopia CD

For full class descriptions times and locations see page 16.

Be sure to check out the iLandscape bookstore!

Speakers may be signing books after their presentation. The iLandscape bookstore is located on the second level. Many thanks to the Book Bin for hosting the iLandscape bookstore!

NEW! Education Pop Ups & Container Wars—

Located in the French Garden

Future Forecasts with Industry Experts

Industry Experts discuss predictions and forecasts for this upcoming year in different landscape industry categories.

WEDNESDAY

FEBRUARY 26, 2025

Pop Ups

9:20am- 9:40am

1:50pm-2:10pm

Container War

Container Wars

A competitive container garden demonstration in the French Garden. Throughout the show, attendees will vote for their favorite container using the Whova App. Winners will be announced on Friday before the raffles.

THURSDAY

FEBRUARY 27, 2025

Pop Ups

9:20am-9:40am 1:50pm-2:10pm

FRIDAY

FEBRUARY 28, 2025

Container War Pop Up 9:20am-9:40am

12:00pm-12:20pm 12:00pm-12:20pm

Completely free!

The entire education program was approved by LA CES for Landscape Architect CEUs unless noted otherwise.

Please read through these common FAQ’s about CEU’s and education session recordings.

Are any of the education sessions eligible for CEU’s?

iLandscape offers CEU’s for Landscape Architects and Certified Arborists. Any other professional license or designation will need to self-report, following your accrediting bodies procedure.

How are CEU’s processed?

Landscape Architects:

As you exit the session you attended, your badge will be scanned. There will be a designated scanner for Landscape Architects. The scanned records are posted to LA CES 20 days following the end of the event.

Certified Arborists:

When you register for iLandscape, PLEASE ENSURE YOU ENTER YOUR LICENSE NUMBER. As you exit the session, your badge will be scanned. There will be a designated scanner for Certified Arborists. The scanned records are sent to ISA 20 days following the end of the event. Please note that records without a license number cannot be processed by ISA.

How do I access my CEU’s?

Landscape Architects:

Transcripts for the sessions you attended and scanned on-site will be uploaded to the LA CES website.

1. Visit laces.asla.org

2. Under the “For Professionals” heading, on the left side of the page, scroll to the bottom.

3. Under the section titled “Download Your Course Record”, enter only your last name and first name. Click Search.

Certified Arborists:

Scanning records that include a valid certification number will be sent to ISA.

Will the sessions be recorded?

Most educational sessions held upstairs in Nirvana A, Nirvana BC, Euphoria, Utopia AB and Utopia CD will be recorded. If a speaker requests that we do not record their presentation, it will be notated in the description of their session. Due to the length, in-depth and hands on nature of workshops, they will not be recorded. Additionally, any Education Pop Up session held on the tradeshow floor will not be recorded due to the noise level of the area.

How do I access the recorded sessions?

Recorded sessions are posted to Bloom. iLandscape Education pass holders will have 30 days after they are posted to watch the sessions.

What is Bloom?

Bloom is ILCA’s comprehensive video library dedicated to providing education and training for professionals in the landscape industry. With a diverse range of content, Bloom caters to everyone on the landscape team.

How do I earn CEU’s for recorded sessions?

Landscape Architects: You will need to pass a 10 question quiz with a 70% or higher. Many of these quizzes are still being developed. A follow up email will be sent when all of the quizzes have been activated. A link to this quiz can be found in the description of each session, underneath the recording link.

Certified Arborists:

Please complete the self-attestation form, which can be found in the description of each session.

Thank You To Our Education Sponsor

PreShow Workshops

BONUS! Register for any workshop and receive a complimentary, three day education pass!

Bold, Wild & In Between: Examining Strategic

Approaches to Dynamic Landscape Design

Tuesday, February 25, 2025 8:00am-11:30am

Location: Utopia AB

Instructed by:  Pat Cullina, Patrick Cullina

Horticultural Design + Consulting

This extended workshop will examine competing approaches to designing, installing, and maintaining dynamic landscapes through a review of ecological inspirations, established design precedents, and plant library images — and includes a hands on design practicum component.

Strengths-Based Performance Workshop

Tuesday, February 25, 2025 12:00pm-3:30pm

Location: Utopia AB

Instructed by: Neal Glatt, GrowTheBench

Succeeding in business today is harder than ever, but the secret to high performance in any environment is discovering what we each do best and leveraging it everyday. In this workshop, you’ll learn your unique talents and how they can be applied for success in your role at work, on your team, and everywhere else. Neal Glatt will draw on his experiences as a commercial contractor and Gallup-certified Strengths Coach to guide you through interactive activities to discover what makes you unique. You’ll leave with an action plan that will result in more positive, creative, and innovative moments at work enabling higher levels of achievement and increased team dynamics. This workshop is essential for leaders, managers, salespeople, and high-potential employees at all levels.

Tuesday February 25

Attendees will learn and receive:

The Science of Strengths-Based Performance Management

• A Personalized Report of Your Unique Strengths

• An Action Plan for Success in Your Role at Work

• A Framework for Increased Team Dynamics and Collaboration

• A Higher Understanding of Yourself and Others

• A 45-minute online assessment (included in your registration cost) should be completed at least one week prior to the workshop to receive all the materials included. Upon registration, you will be sent a link with instructions to take the assessment.

Dipping Your Toes into 3D Design: Unlocking the Power of Visualization

Tuesday February 25, 2025 12:00pm-3:30pm

Location: Utopia CD

Ready to take your designs to the next level without the steep learning curve of complex software? This hands-on workshop is your perfect introduction to the exciting world of 3D design — using a user-friendly, low-cost tool that’s easy to master. Building on last year’s design workshop, we’ll dive into the 3D side, helping you create stunning visualizations that will wow your clients. Whether you’re new to 3D or looking to expand your skills, you’ll discover how this intuitive design software makes turning your ideas into realistic 3D models faster and easier than you ever imagined. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to add a whole new layer of value to your services and make client presentations more impactful than ever!

Although the workshop will focus on 3D design in general, students will be using the free trial version of Real-time 3D design software. Note: the software is NOT compatible with Apple products. Please bring your own laptop with the trial version loaded on it ahead of the workshop.

This workshop doesn’t qualify for Landscape Architect CEUs.

Instructed by:

Ashley Marrin

Bailey Hoines Bret-Mar Landscape

WEDNESDAY EDUCATION SESSIONS

8:00 AM -9:15 AM

Euphoria

The Social Impact Workshop: Creating Content That Matters

Julie Joyce, GreenID Marketing

This presentation will cover the essential strategies for creating social media content that resonates and drives results. Learn how to craft impactful posts on Instagram and other platforms while repurposing your best content for maximum exposure. Discover practical techniques to amplify your reach, optimize your distribution strategy and build a social media presence that truly matters. Additionally, learn how social is a top of the funnel marketing tool and how you can create a funnel from social to owned media (collecting emails and leads).

Nirvana BC

It’s All Relative: A Familial

Approach to Plant Selection for Dynamic Landscapes

Pat Cullina, Patrick Cullina Horticultural Design + Consulting

With a vast world of plants to choose from, how does one narrow the field to make choices that will lead to successful outcomes? This session will examine one potential approach to plant selection — considering related plants within select plant families as a key to organizing choices for developing appealing landscapes that are diverse, durable, and resilient.

Utopia AB

Non-native Plant Heroes: An Ecological and Phenological Argument for Planting

Cultivars and Non-native Plants

David McKinney, Iowa Arboretum & Gardens

Have you ever gotten into a discussion about the “goodness” or “badness” of a non-native plant? How about a lecture on why native only landscapes are the only correct direction for horticulture to go? David will take you on a discussion of non-native plants and their positive impact on the world around them from an ecological perspective. Learn about how non-native plants may help us save pollinators and how they help hold over populations of diverse wildlife. Finally, you will walk away with some talking points that may make it easier to communicate that non-native plants are here to stay and that they may have an important role in the future of ecology.

Utopia CD Client-Centered Marketing: Using Your Ideal Client to Build Your Strategy

Mardi Dover, MardiDover.com

Are you in your element designing and installing beautiful landscapes, but the ins and outs of marketing your landscape company is a mystery? Effective marketing does not have to be hard - don’t waste time and money on efforts that attract the wrong clients and projects. In this presentation, learn how to confidently translate information about your ideal client into your marketing strategies, to build a more profitable and enjoyable business.

9:45 AM -11:00 AM

Euphoria

Celebrating Cemeteries: How These Prairie Remnants Serve as a Diverse Sanctuary

David McKinney, Iowa Arboretum & Gardens

Join David as he takes you on a journey of Midwestern prairie remnants located in cemeteries. Learn about the unique and amazing plants that call these spaces home from rare and endangered species to well-known favorites. Then explore the potential these spaces have for conservation, ornamental horticulture, and future plant development. You will get to see pretty neat plants up close and also get tips on how to seek out and appreciate the forgotten world of cemetery prairie remnants.

Nirvana BC

Glimmer and Wild Places: Creating Meaning in Our Outdoor Spaces

Virginia Burt, Virginia Burt Designs Inc.

As people, as designers, we are all on a journey to find the secret to creating meaning for ourselves, for our clients, for our community. At Virginia Burt Designs, we strive to create a holistic experience of outdoor spaces that can change one from the inside – wilding and re-wilding, glimmer and yutori. The greatest successes of landscape begin at home, more than beauty or sustainability or accessibility alone. While so many expansive gardens and public spaces get all the glory, it’s a love of our own spaces, our own back garden or balcony, that is impetus to inspire and support spaces publicly. Be prepared to be surprised, to develop connection, and add small miraculous moments that enchant.

Applied for CEUs for Certified Arborists

App-solutely packed!

Find updated session descriptions, schedule changes and speaker bios in the iLandscape app!

WEDNESDAY EDUCATION SESSIONS

Utopia AB UK Inspired Gardens

Karl Gercens, Longwood Gardens

It’s many a gardener’s dream to explore the 2,000+ gardens available to visit in the British Isles. It seems that every plant known to man and every style of design has been incorporated into the landscapes there. It’s no wonder that heaps of inspiration can be taken from visits to England, Scotland and Wales. Europeans are fascinated with our North American native plants, so let’s see how they’re using them alongside all the “exotic” plants which make for a multilayered design. We’ll explore meadows to manicured borders and have a look at what hedges and edges can do to enhance what you already have. Color, texture and form are represented in every plant, no matter if it can grow in your garden or not. We explore the importance of these design aspects when making your landscape pop!

Nirvana A Site Analysis Tools & Technologies: Build Efficiency with Technology

Joseph Hanauer, Landscape Architecture, LLC, with Wordly App translation available

Utopia CD Panel: Managing the Message with Native Plants

Panelists: Sam Hoadley, Mt. Cuba Center; Pat Cullina, Patrick Cullina Horticultural Design + Consulting, Shannon McEnerney, Midwest Groundcovers ;

Moderator: Claudio Vazquez, Izel Native Plants

This panel will tackle tricky topics related to native plants, including: Have we oversold natives in a way that has tarnished them? How a “Backlash” on native plants affects members of the landscape industry. How to define “right plant, right place.” This phrase has meaning at different scales and with different contexts and might not mean what you think it means. With native plants, we need to set our audience up for success. It’s not enough to sell them with a too-rosy picture of what native plants can do or how they’re different from non-natives. It’s in our interest to help them be successful

1:00 PM -1:50 PM

Euphoria —Streaming live from Germany— Inspirations from Germany - Enhancing the Horticultural Plant Palette in Naturalistic Planting Design

Cassian Schmidt, Hochschule GEISENHEIM University

This session will show how to use multiple technologies to collect information and then how to use a CAD program such as Vectorworks to synthesize the data, communicate ideas to customers, and increase construction efficiency. Attendees will learn how the integration of complementary technologies (GPS Surveyor, GIS, LiDAR) can aid in the collection of site data. Save time site surveying, creating base information, and increasing the accuracy of design projects. Joe will share advantages of accurate information in the design process that will allow for more accurate estimates and improve crew efficiency. This session doesn’t qualify for Landscape Architect CEUs.

Nirvana BC Art of Setting Stone, Japanese Stone Placement

Virginia Burt, Virginia Burt Designs Inc.

The magic of a Japanese Garden is renowned for its beauty, mindfulness and symbolism. Imagine the challenge of creating one in a northern climate – with deeper winter temperatures and less humid summers. When the City of Burlington, Ontario decided to create a Japanese inspired garden in honor of Burlington‘s 30th anniversary of partnering with the City of Itabashi in Japan – a challenge was placed. How to take an existing small garden space behind a community center and transform it into a Japanese inspired garden that honors a centuries old tradition of garden making. To place rock and boulders as if ancient glaciers and Mother Nature placed them is an art form in Japan. The 11th-century guide to making Japanese gardens, the Sakuteiki, defined the way rocks and stones were to be placed. The Sakuteiki was written in a time when placing stones was the most important part of gardening in Japan. Stone literally defined the art of garden making, ishi wo tateru koto (build up with stone).

Utopia AB Knockout Natives

Sam Hoadley, Mt. Cuba Center

Cassian’s over 25 years of research at Hermannshof trial gardens includes plant ecology and performance and the coexistence of plants in designed plant communities. In his lecture, Cassian will identify and explore some of the most valuable natural reference plant communities that have great potential to be used as an ecological palette for resilient planting designs. New grasses and perennials have been tested to survive the harsh environment of traffic islands and low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plantings in public parks. In his formulaic mixed perennial plantings Cassian combines the values of a tested resilient plant palette, originating from European, Central Asian and North American grassland vegetation. What are the ecological, climatic and aesthetical factors that shape those natural plant communities and how they can be applied and modified to an urban context? What are the limitations regarding maintenance skills and what grade of dynamism should be allowed in those naturalistic planting types?

Join Sam Hoadley, the Manager of Horticultural Research at Mt. Cuba Center, as he highlights knockout native species and cultivars from our trials. Top performers and favorites of Monarda, Phlox, Echinacea, wild hydrangea, Carex, Amsonia, and Vernonia represent some of the best native plants for the mid-Atlantic region and beyond. Sam will discuss their horticultural and ecological performance and will share important information on standouts that will make beautiful additions to your garden.

WEDNESDAY EDUCATION

Utopia CD How to Sell, Design, and Not be Onsite

Mark McGough, Riverstone Brick & Stone

This session will focus on how to effectively communicate project details without being onsite everyday. The presentation will include steps to help the sales and design team sell more and stay out of production. Attendees will also learn how to put virtual and physical job packets together and take the steps from 3d design to reality.

2:10 PM - 3:00 PM

Euphoria

Creating Gardens Inspired by Mediterranean Landscapes

—Streaming live from France—

James Basson, Scape Design

SESSIONS

be. The solution to motivating employees is to help them feel authentically appreciated. In this session, attendees will: discuss how to overcome negative workplaces and build authentic connections; discover the tools and resources to authentically motivate their team; learn the five ways in which people prefer to be appreciated.

Utopia AB Proven Perennials

Richard Hawke, Chicago Botanic Garden

In this presentation, landscape professionals will explore how to design gardens inspired by the timeless beauty and functionality of Mediterranean landscapes. Focusing on low-input, high-impact designs, this session will guide you in creating sustainable, low-water gardens that offer clients a sense of simple luxury — where style, ease of maintenance, and sustainability align.

Nirvana A A Day in the Life of an Arborist— Identifying Preventable Tree Issues

Aaron Schulz, Oak Bros Tree Care & Removal LLC, with Wordly App translation available

Trees are valuable assets designed to survive for decades to centuries, depending on species. However, not everything goes according to plan due to human error. This session will look at preventable tree issues observed by a Consulting Arborist and how to mitigate them, beginning in the nursery. Topics covered include: structural pruning, species & site selection, planting practices, and field identification of manageable tree issues.

Nirvana BC Employee Appreciation

Neal Glatt, GrowTheBench

Everyone wants to feel appreciated for their efforts, yet managers are frequently finding themselves managing teams that are dealing with high stress, tight budgets, complaining, or general negativity. These issues lead to low morale, sub-par performance, and increased turnover that threatens organizational success and make work generally not a fun place to

New is important—as gardeners, it is what excites us and makes us drool over nursery catalogs and gardening magazines every winter. Unfortunately, being new does not necessarily mean good. Richard Hawke has spent his career trialing plants—many new plants are tested every year at the Chicago Botanic Garden for their overall performance. Do they have good habits? Do they get diseases easily? Do they come back reliably after a harsh winter? Richard will share information on perennials that have proven to be beautiful, reliable, and hardy in the Chicago Botanic Garden’s evaluation trials.

Utopia CD Bringing it Home: A World of Garden Travel Inspiration

Karl Gercens, Longwood Gardens

Have you ever wondered what it takes to create the world-renowned conservatory displays at Longwood Gardens? Karl Gercens has been involved in the design, installation, and maintenance of Longwood’s glasshouse wonders for half his life. With over 30 countries and 3,000+ gardens visited, he has seen some of the best components of what makes a great garden. Join Karl as he shares his most exciting floral finds and marvel at the end results at Longwood’s Grand Conservatory. Hear how Karl juggles his schedule, be inspired and pick up tips on maximizing your time and cash to get out and enjoy a few of these places yourself!

The entire education program was approved by LA CES for Landscape Architect CEUs unless noted otherwise.

8:00 AM - 9:15 AM

THURSDAY EDUCATION SESSIONS

Euphoria Designing Gardens for Children

Karen Midden, Southern Illinois University

Utopia AB On the Straight and Narrow: Choices for Tight Spaces

Jason Reeves, University of Tennessee Gardens - Jackson

Gardens are where children’s imaginations engage nature and the result is joyful learning and fostering a mentally and physically healthy child. Gardening helps children develop an appreciation for the natural world and build the foundation for environmental stewardship. Gardens need not be large scale and high intensity to engage curious minds. This presentation will discuss gardening with children and garden design from the perspective of two early childhood educators and a landscape architect based on their experiences which led to two editions of “Gardening with Young Children”. Get an insight of how gardens are used as part of curriculum, play and exploration and how to facilitate a garden design that will serve the goals of your client while keeping maintenance in mind. The landscape industry has rewarding opportunities to help connect young people with plants. We are all big kids in gardens – share the joy!

Nirvana A Creating a Culture of Caring Through Safety

Scott Jamieson, Bartlett Tree Experts

Safety is the most important aspect of how we care for teammates in our profession. Safety isn’t just about following rules and regulations, it is about how to recognize and reduce exposures. How leaders treat others has a direct impact on safety within an organization. Building a culture of safety helps build a culture of caring.

Nirvana BC

Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavement (PICP): Engineering Solution for Stormwater Management

Jeff Taphouse, Techo-Bloc

As populations in cities grow, natural ground cover is being replaced with impervious surface cover and this in turn is causing an increase in storm water runoff. The need to successfully manage and mitigate the harmful effects of storm water runoff is becoming clear. This session discusses how permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP) offers solutions for storm water management including mitigating runoff volumes, decreasing peak flow, reducing flooding potential, and decreasing stream bank erosion. This presentation also examines pavement components, design considerations, and pavement maintenance.

App-solutely packed!

Find updated session descriptions, schedule changes and speaker bios in the iLandscape app!

Whether your garden is in a zero lot line neighborhood, or a sprawling country estate, the odds are you have a space where a straight and narrow plant is desirable. Your options are to either choose plants that are correct for the space, or force ones that are not into submission. Living walls have become popular options for these spaces in recent years, they can be costly and high-maintenance; there is a better option for long-term success. Many new cultivars of favorite species have come on the market in recent years that can fill that void in the garden. By using slender trees and shrubs, as well as vines, you can add excitement to an otherwise challenging space.

9:45 AM - 11:00 AM

Euphoria

Cannabis: The New Tomato C.L. Fornari, TheGardenLady.com

It’s the plant that many customers want to grow, and every year more states are making home Cannabis cultivation legal. This session is for Landscapers and IGC’s who want to assist these growers, while staying within their state guidelines and respecting the emotional responses from others. C.L. Fornari has been teaching outdoor Cannabis growing at Hyannis Country Garden, a family-owned IGC, for seven years, and she shares what she’s learned about creating educational or consultation programs around this plant. Discover what your customers need to know for success with Cannabis. Hear about the common problems home growers face and the products or practices for helping them. Learn how to serve home Cannabis growers while not upsetting those who still equate this plant with opioids. And hear how to navigate the tricky waters of helping customers grow the plant, without giving medical or recreational drug advice.

Nirvana A Planting Savings: How to Cultivate Lower Workers’ Compensation Costs

Griff MacDonald and Brian MacDonald, Connor and Gallagher Onesource

Join Griff MacDonald and Brian MacDonald, two seasoned commercial insurance brokers specializing in the landscaping industry, for an insightful session. This presentation is designed to equip business owners and safety managers with practical knowledge and actionable strategies to manage workers’ compensation costs effectively. Workers’ compensation is often the most significant expense within a landscaping company’s insurance program. Griff and Brian will break down the complexities of workers’ compensation insurance, exploring how proactive engagement in safety, claims management, and risk mitigation can help reduce premiums.

THURSDAY EDUCATION

Nirvana BC TLC Series: Winterscaping: Beauty in the Quiet Season

Heather Prince, The Landscape Contractor Magazine

Here in the Midwest, winter can feel almost never ending. Creating four-season landscapes is never easy, but perhaps it is most challenging in winter when the color palette shrinks and the emphasis shifts to form over flower. This is an opportunity to consider plants for their architecture, their resilience to snow cover, and the simple pleasures of bark and berries. Be inspired by the possibilities of a beautiful structural winter landscape where snow and ice only emphasize the subtle grace of a garden at rest.

Utopia AB

Reading the Land: Sustainable Landscape Design through Site Analysis and Natural Integration

Vallari Talapatra, Ecoscapes

This presentation will explore the essential practice of “reading the land” in sustainable landscape design, emphasizing the significance of thorough site analysis and how it informs design strategies that work in harmony with the natural environment. Participants will gain insights into the key factors that shape the landscape, such as topography, climate, soil composition, water flow, and existing plant and animal life. By understanding these natural elements, designers can create landscapes that not only enhance aesthetic and functional values but also contribute positively to ecological health.

1:00 PM - 1:50 PM

Euphoria

Our Future With Water: The Why, What and How of Storm Water Management

Trevor Smith, Weston Nurseries

Water simultaneously manages to be the stuff of mystery in our daily routine. We use it to cook with, wash our dishes, and brush our teeth, but very few can stand on the beach and not lose themselves watching the breakers roll in. In the face of climate change, water is becoming much more of an issue, we either have too much or too little and never when we really need it. Water bans, flooding, and erosion are common now and it feels as if this lifegiving resource has turned against us. Get reacquainted with water and learn simple methods to capture and reuse storm water or slow stormwater runoff.

SESSIONS

Nirvana A The Power of Delegation and Accountability: Unlock Your Team’s True Potential

Jeff Joutras, Step Forward Into Growth

In this transformative session, landscape contractors will delve into the pivotal role of delegation and accountability in elevating their business operations. By mastering the art of effective delegation, attendees will learn how to identify tasks that can be delegated, select the right team members for each task, and set clear, achievable expectations. This session emphasizes the importance of building a culture of accountability, where team members take ownership of their responsibilities and are motivated to meet their goals.

Nirvana BC Developments in Green Urban Thinking in The Netherlands –An Overview

Gert Fortgens, Trompenburg Gardens and Arboretum in Rotterdam

In a small country such as The Netherlands (half the size of Illinois with 18,000,000 residents), changes in land use as well as changes in climate create opportunities for other ways of planning a green environment. For example, how to deal with an increase of urbanization and a rapid loss of biodiversity requires a different approach of building, choices of trees and other plants, and creating green spaces in the urban environment. Gert will take you along to some of the recent developments in The Netherlands in the process of Green Urban Thinking.

Utopia AB TLC Series: Panel: Growing Great Grasses

Find updated session descriptions, schedule changes and speaker bios in the iLandscape app!

Moderator: Heather Prince, The Landscape Contractor magazine; Panel: Brent Horvath, Founder and President, Intrinsic Perennial Gardens, Krystal Flogel, Production Manager, Mariani Plants Shannon McEnerney, Product Manager, Midwest Groundcovers, Jason Fritz, Nursery Business Development Manager, Stantec

With the increasing popularity of grasses in both formal and naturalistic garden designs, how do we meet the demand and produce great plants? In this interactive panel, we’ll discuss the challenges of ornamental and native species production, what makes a great grass, and spotlight some varieties that should receive more attention. Learn more about the growing habits of these hardy perennials to make good grass choices in your designs and installations that will delight clients. Bring your questions!

THURSDAY EDUCATION

SESSIONS

Utopia CD

Color Me Happy: Plants that Brighten Winter’s Gloom

Jason Reeves, University of Tennessee Gardens with Wordly App translation available

Even in the South, winter can seem like an eternity. Plants with winter interest can make gray days more bearable by adding a spark of color and life to an otherwise dormant landscape. There are so many underutilized plants on the market today that not only flower, but have interesting bark, great winter leaf color, and tantalizing textures. Not only do many of these beauties look good in the winter, they look great in the spring and summer, too! With some new additions to your landscape, your enjoyment will extend through all the seasons.

2:10 PM - 3:00 PM

Euphoria Using Plant Phenology to Predict Pest Treatment Timing: Some Things Never Change

Aaron Schulz,

Oak Bros Tree Care & Removal LLC

When treating trees and shrubs for insects, mites, or diseases, applicators must be precise in their timing so that control can be established. We commonly use growing degree days to predict vulnerable stages of insects, mites, and diseases, but with our climate shifting, growing degree days are not always a reliable source. What if a more predictable way to time treatments, such as plant growth stages, existed? Plant phenology uses cyclical biological events based on climatic conditions (bud swell, leaf development, flowering, fall color, etc) to coincide with insect, mite, and disease vulnerability. This session will explore the benefits of adding plant phenology to your treatment program so that you can reduce pest resurgence from the use of broad spectrum pesticides and deliver a more predictable outcome for your clients.

Nirvana A

Gardening for Wildlife in an Era of Climate Change

Trevor Smith, Weston Nurseries

The evidence is clear: Climate change is here. The effects that scientists have long predicted are occurring and will only intensify in coming years. What does this mean for our native flora and fauna? And what can one homeowner really do to mitigate a global crisis? Trevor Smith will take you past the bleak outlook and talk about what WE can do. How our plant choices and simply changing the way we maintain our properties can make a huge difference in our local ecology. Trevor makes it clear that the power to slow or stop climate change doesn’t rest solely in the hands of the government. We can all make a difference. His presentation will leave you inspired and empowered to take action.

Nirvana BC

‘Keukenhof Gardens’ and ‘Trompenburg Gardens and Arboretum’ in the Netherlands –Inspiration and Learning Lecture for Chicagoland Professionals and Consumers

Jack de Vroomen, De Vroomen Garden Products and Gert Fortgens, Trompenburg Gardens and Arboretum in Rotterdam

‘Keukenhof Gardens’, also called “The # 1 Showplace for the horticultural industry in the world’, is planted with 7,000,000 flower bulbs annually and attracts 1,500,000 visitors in 7 weeks’ time. The ‘Trompenburg Gardens & Arboretum’ historical garden dating back to 1820, showing of the largest collections of trees and hostas in the Netherlands attracts 100,000 visitors annually. Jack and Gert will explain what makes those 2 gardens so special and popular for visitors from all over the world and how both gardens use the flower bulbs, perennials, and woodies at their best!

Utopia AB

How Owners and Managers Can Build an Inclusive Company Culture

Pam Berrios, The Grounds Guys

In this presentation, landscape professionals will learn how to foster an inclusive company culture that empowers diverse teams, promotes collaboration, and enhances overall workplace satisfaction. For landscape business owners and managers, creating an environment where all employees feel valued and respected is crucial for attracting and retaining top talent, improving team dynamics, and driving business success. Attendees will explore key strategies for building an inclusive culture, such as implementing inclusive hiring practices, promoting open communication, and providing ongoing training to address unconscious bias and cultural competency.

Utopia CD Best Practices in Retaining Wall Design and Installation

Elliot Rudert, High Format, with Wordly App translation available

This presentation covers the best practices in retaining wall design and installation in three sections: Base and Site Preparation, Wall Construction, and overall Wall Design. With tons of photos and practical advice, it will encourage attendees to “begin with the end in mind” from pre-construction preparation to finishing touches. Three separate case studies will walk attendees through unique site challenges from initial design concept to structural challenges that inevitably arise along the way. This presentation will provide everyone from newer landscape designers/installers to the most seasoned with practical tips and tricks.

FRIDAY EDUCATION SESSIONS

8:00 AM - 9:15 AM

Euphoria

Building & Maintaining a Grand Garden

Susan Jacobson, Todd Jacobson, and Rachel White, The Morton Arboretum

Creating a garden to mark the 100th anniversary of an arboretum is a daunting task that takes planning, creativity, generous donors, and a construction team that can stay on a tight timeline. Attendees will receive an overview of planning, designing, building and maintaining the new Gerard T. Donnelly Grand Garden at The Morton Arboretum. This presentation will provide a behind the scene look into the design process, the artistic details, construction, sourcing of plants and the maintenance challenges of completing a new garden in the middle of an existing Arboretum. Meet with the Morton Arboretum staff responsible for leading this process through design, installation, and maintenance.

Nirvana A Engineered Soils: Blends for the Urban Landscape

Kevin Donnelly, Midwest Trading

Utopia AB Perennial Success at Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Erin Presley, Olbrich Botanical Gardens

At Olbrich Botanical Gardens, a free admission 16-acre public garden in Madison, WI, success is defined by not only creating gorgeous gardens, but also trialing and modeling sustainable techniques. Erin Presley, a horticulturist at Olbrich for 10 years, walks you through a variety of perennial garden styles and our best practices for attracting and supporting insect life, managing weeds, building soil, and saving water - all while saving time and resources. We’ll cover spring garden tidying, matrix plantings and green mulch, the roles of natives and nativars, and much more!

Utopia CD TLC Series:

Mastering that First Meeting

Moderator: Nina Koziol, The Landscape Contractor Magazine Panelists: Bob Bertog, Bertog Landscape Co.; Bob Hursthouse, Hursthouse Landscape Architects and Contractors; Mitch Birky, Bellas Landscaping LLC

There are many landscape projects that using or amending native soil is not viable and material has to be brought from off site to manufacture the soil environment. The selection of engineered soils can be complicated and there are a lot of considerations that go into selecting, designing, and manufacturing these blends. In this presentation, we will look at different categories of engineered soils and how they are designed, tested, and manufactured in relation to specifications.

Nirvana BC

The Southwestern

Garden Style: Will it Transplant to the Midwest?

Panayoti Kelaidis, Denver Botanic Garden

The Southwest boasts the Lion’s share of America’s national parks and the burgeoning Sunbelt has seen an explosion of urban and suburbanization, which has embraced the desert look. Midwesterners love to vacation here, but why not bring some of the sunny flavor -and even the plants!- back to gardens. A wide spectrum of Southwestern plants, and those from similar climates, will thrive in the right microclimate in the Great Lakes area. With climate change looming, it’s likely that the Southwestern style might become more and more practical in the Midwest. Let’s explore some of the great Southwestern gardens and some Midwestern gardens where gardeners have recreated the moods of sunset mesas and beautiful buttes!

A landscape firm can be one of the best when it comes to design, build, plant, or maintain, but if your sales aren’t up to speed, you’ll always be chasing that next customer, trying to figure out what’s the best fit, looking for potential opportunities, learning how to weed out non-starters, and preventing headaches down the road. Discover insights from our panel of seasoned, successful professionals.

8:00 AM - 9:15 AM

Euphoria Root Zone Management, From Plug to Planting

Kevin Donnelly, Midwest Trading

Growing and installing landscape plants comes with a level of complexity regarding what can go right and what can go wrong. We will be exploring substrate and amendment materials and concepts to help your perennials and shrubs thrive during growing and during installation. This session will also provide a deeper understanding of the substrate environment and how to ensure plants will thrive in the landscape.

Nirvana A Forest Health Update

Fredric Miller, The Morton Arboretum

Get the update on forest health concerns across Illinois, including 1) The Periodical Cicada in the Rearview Mirror, 2) Scale Insects: A Comprehensive Look at Armored and Soft Scales, 3) Woody Plant Pest and Disease Update and What to Expect in 2025, and 4) Post EAB, The Next Chapter.

FRIDAY EDUCATION SESSIONS

Nirvana BC Plantastic Passport: Lessons from Gardens Around the World

Jared Barnes, Stephen F Austin State University

Join Dr. Jared Barnes as you journey through some of the most inspiring gardens across the globe. In this session, we will draw from a rich tapestry of landscapes, design philosophies, and plant palettes. Whether you are a seasoned horticulturist or an enthusiastic beginner, this session will provide insights into how you can incorporate global gardening techniques into your own practices, fostering creativity and diversity in your garden.

Utopia AB

Panel: Technology and Construction Scheduling

Panelists: Matthew Schmechtig, Schmechtig Landscapes; Scott McAdam Jr, McAdam Landscaping, Inc.; Eduardo Tapia, RYCO Landscaping; Joseph Haubert, Rosborough Partners, Inc.; Andy Migacz, AM Woodland Outdoor Design; Kevin Engbrecht, Mariani Landscape ,Moderator: Debbie Bartsch, Chalet Landscape and Nursery

Construction scheduling! Do you use Aspire, BOSS, LMN, or other software to schedule construction jobs and crews? There has been an explosion of scheduling software improvements in our industry. Please join us for lively conversation on best practices for construction job scheduling, crew scheduling, and engaging your people.

This session doesn’t qualify for Landscape Architect CEUs.

Utopia CD

Native Plant Solutions to Familiar Landscape Challenges

Shannon Currey, Izel Native Plants

Native plants often get top billing for supporting pollinators. However, native plants also offer solutions for areas that can be difficult to manage, like underneath trees, on slopes, and in drainage fields. Installing the right plant in the right place for the right purpose is critical for success. By selecting native plants that function together as a community, you can create plantings that not only survive in these situations, but will also provide key benefits. This session will cover helpful strategies for choosing native plants for the variable shade underneath trees, erosion control on slopes, and managing stormwater in drainage areas. We’ll examine a handful of specific native perennials for each situation, focusing on characteristics and adaptations that make them particularly helpful. Join us for solutions that bring beauty, functionality, and resilience to your clients’ landscapes.

Euphoria

TLC Series: The Next Big Thing

Moderator: Nina Koziol, The Landscape Contractor Magazine Panelists: Tom Kadolph, Cedar Path Nurseries LLC; Mike Mennenoh, Mariani Plants

Plant breeders are constantly on the lookout for new varieties of woodies. While tried-and-trued trees will always have a place in designs, our panel will take you through new selections, what drives sales, and unusual replacements for overused varieties.

Nirvana A Oaks: Global Conservation and Local Management

Dr. Chad Rigsby, The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories; Dr. Silvia Alverez-Clare, The Morton Arboretum

In this presentation, Drs. Silvia Alverez-Clare and Chad Rigsby will discuss ongoing global oak conservation efforts, particularly those currently being spearheaded by The Morton Arboretum. We will also discuss threats to oaks, locally, and what arborists and the green industry can do to manage them.

Nirvana BC Migrating North: Inspiration from a Southerly Plant Palette

Jared Barnes, Stephen F Austin State University

The South is a rising cultural hub known for its crafts, music, food, and exceptional native plants, y’all. In this presentation, Dr. Jared Barnes shares insights from his explorations of Southern flora while highlighting their adaptability and ecological benefits. With climate change pushing Southern conditions further north, these resilient plants will become increasingly relevant beyond their native range. Jared will also discuss his propagation and evaluation efforts at Stephen F. Austin State University and offer strategies for integrating these plants into gardens to enhance biodiversity, sustainability, and add a touch of Southern charm to any landscape.

Utopia AB

Leadership Blindspots: See What You’re Missing!

Jeff Joutras, Step Forward Into Growth

This session will help landscape contracting leaders recognize and address common leadership blindspots that can hinder team performance and project success. Through real-world examples, practical strategies, and interactive exercises, you will learn how to enhance self-awareness, improve communication, and foster a culture of feedback. Gain valuable insights to become a more effective and insightful leader in the landscape contracting industry.

Utopia CD Lawn & Landscapes: Common Threats, Common Future

Brandon Sheppard, Weed Man

As our industry faces an ever-evolving landscape shaped by political, regulatory, and environmental changes, it’s essential to recognize both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. In this session, we will explore how recent shifts in legislation and policy are impacting lawn care and landscaping practices, from sustainability mandates to environmental protections. We’ll delve into the risks these changes present to our profession, as well as the opportunities they create for innovation, collaboration, and growth.

En Espa ñol

Next Level Training — Clases en Español

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

8:00 AM - 9:15 AM

Nirvana A Training Your Field Staff for Safety

Armando Actis, College of Dupage

This Spanish-language Next Level Training Session will cover safety practices, troubleshooting equipment issues, and OSHA regulations, including how to train your field staff on how to recognize and respond to heat stroke and extreme cold.

9:15 AM - 10:30 AM

Nirvana A Popular Plant Introductions for 2025

Catalino Mendoza, Midwest Groundcovers

Discover the newest plant varieties for your 2025 designs and stay ahead of the curve! Explore vibrant colors, unique textures, and innovative plant combinations that will elevate your landscape projects. Learn how to create stunning, sustainable designs that not only captivate but also thrive with durability and resilience. Get inspired by the latest trends and plant selections that will make your landscapes both beautiful and environmentally conscious.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Nirvana A Math Rules

José Magán, Accent Urban Design

This Spanish session will review the math rules needed in landscape to measure outdoor spaces accurately and the units and conversions needed to obtain material quantities precisely. We will do some exercises during the session to practice the application of these rules.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Nirvana A Plan Reading

José Magán, Accent Urban Design

This Spanish session will review the information contained in landscape plans and verify additional information needed to successfully complete the landscape installation. We will do some exercises during the session to practice the use of scales and to measure outdoor areas correctly.

Thursday, February 27 2025

8:00 AM - 9:15 AM

Utopia CD

Leadership - Career Paths, Effective Communication, and Conflict Resolution

Pam Berrios, The Grounds Guys

This Spanish-language session will provide guidance on ways to enhance your professional skills and advance your career. Pam will cover how to plan your career path, including understanding role descriptions and expectations. She’ll work with attendees on effective communication strategies to make yourself heard and understood. She’ll also talk attendees through conflict resolution strategies to support rising professionals navigate difficult conversations.

9:15 AM - 10:15 AM

Utopia CD

Next Generation Contractors: Why to Upgrade Design Software

Auggie Rodriguez, Unilock

Technology is revolutionizing the way everyone in your company collaborates on landscape projects—it’s not just for designers anymore! In this session, learn how 3D design software is transforming traditional 2D plans into dynamic visuals that enhance every stage of your project. We’ll cover key techniques, explore top software options, and show you how to make 3D design an essential part of your workflow, from initial pitch to final installation. This session doesn’t qualify for Landscape Architect CEUs.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

10:15 AM – 11:30 AM

Utopia CD

Alternate Bases and Concrete Overlays

Eduardo Tapia, RYCO Landscaping and Auggie Rodriguez, Unilock

With a shift in industry trends, it’s clear that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to instal lation bases. This session will focus on the right base materials for different types of installations—whether you’re working with natural stone, porcelain slabs, or concrete pavers. We’ll break down the importance of selecting the right foundation for each material, ensuring your installations stand the test of time and weather.

Sponsored by

guide to locations

PLEASE NOTE

— the iLandscape Trade Show is in two halls Discovery and Innovation

• The iLandscape Trade Show is located on the first floor in both Discovery and Innovation Halls

• The ILCA booth is located in Discovery Hall #1117

SECOND FLOOR

• Educational classes are located on the SECOND FLOOR

• Excellence in Landscape Awards Night will be held in the Utopia Ballroom upstairs

• Educational classes are conducted in:

— Euphoria

— Nirvana A, BC

— Utopia AB, CD

• Spanish language education are held in Nirvana A and Utopia CD

• All Workshops are held upstairs in Utopia AB + CD

• The book store and signings are in the Nirvana Threshold — Check on site signage and App

Awards Night is in the UTOPIA BALLROOM

Nirvana Threshold

Sponsors

Premier Sponsor Convention Center Doors

Around the World

Bags

Tasting

Hotel Card Folders

Sponsor Rest Room Relections

Clings

Sponsors

Hour

Dollars

Kiosk Sponsor

Level Training

Bags

iLandscape at-a-glance

wednesday thursday

Registration Hours 7:00am – 4:30pm

Exhibit Hall Hours 9:00am – 4:30pm

Educational Sessions 8:00am – 9:15am

Upper Level 9:45am – 11:00am 1:30pm – 2:45pm

Next Level Training—

Spanish Language Education

Nirvana A 8:00am -12:30pm

EN ESPAÑOL

Education Pop-Ups 9:20am - 9:40am 1:50pm - 2:10pm

Caricature Artist 11:00am - 1:00pm

Container Wars 12:00pm-12:20pm

Raffle Scanning at

Information Desk 1:45pm - 3:45pm

Raffles & Giveaways

Discovery Hall 4:15pm

German Fest 4:30pm - 7:00pm

Discovery Hall

Drinks and food provided.

Next Level Training— Spanish Language Education Utopia CD 8:00am -11:30am

EN ESPAÑOL

Education Pop-Ups 9:20am - 9:40am 1:50pm - 2:10pm Container Wars 12:00pm -12:20pm iPix Awards 4:00pm

Raffle Scanning at Information Desk 1:45pm - 3:45pm

Raffles & Giveaways 4:15pm

Discovery Hall Sponsored by Purple Wave

Featuring a Vespa Scooter

Live music featuring Jimmy’s Bavarians! Registration Hours 7:00am – 4:30pm Exhibit Hall Hours 9:00am – 4:30pm Educational Sessions 8:00am – 9:15am 9:45am – 11:00am 1:00pm 1:50pm 3:00pm

Party Around the World 4:30pm-6:30pm

Discovery Hall

Drinks and food provided.

Live music featuring Hector Fernandez Spanish Guitar Quartet! Sponsored by Altorfer Cat

friday

Registration Hours 7:00am – 2:00pm

Exhibit Hall Hours 9:00am – 2:00pm

Educational Sessions 8:00am – 9:15am 9:45am – 11:00am 11:30am – 12:20pm

Student Design Competition Awards 10:00am-10:30am On the German Garden Stage

Education Pop-Ups 11:00am-11:30am

Raffle Scanning at Information Desk 10:45am-12:45pm

Raffles & Giveaways

Discovery Hall 1:00pm

Dining Options

At the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel

There are dining options to fit any taste, budget, and timeframe. All menus and hours are subject to change.

RENdezvous Café & Winter Garden (Hotel Lobby)

Cuisine: Coffee and Quick Eats

Before or after a busy day of meetings at the Schaumburg Convention Center, treat yourself to Starbucks® hot and iced beverages, fast casual food, and a selection of beer and wine in the café.

Mon-Fri

6:00am-4:00pm

Cost: $

Style: Carryout concessions

Gather (Hotel Lobby Bar)

Cuisine: American

Unwind with colleagues or socialize with friends over delicious meals and creative cocktails at this stylish hotel bar and restaurant.

Mon-Fri: 11:00am-12:00am; Fri: 4:30pm-1:00am

Cost: $$

Style: Sit-down/Bar

Burritos in Bowls Pop-Ups

Cuisine: Your choice of Chicken Tinga or Pork Carnitas with assorted toppings such as black beans and rice, fresh veggies, and salsas.

Wed-Fri

Opens at 10:30am

Cost: $$

Style: Carryout concessions

French Bistro: (Innovation Hall)

Wed-Fri opens at 11:00am limited seating, carryout concession

Discovery Hall Concession Stands (Discovery Hall)

Cuisine: The walk-up concession stands will offer hot dogs, pizza, chicken fingers, burgers, salads, wraps, pretzels, cheese curds and more.

Located in the rear of Discovery Hall

Wed-Fri

Opens at 10:30am

Cost: $

Style: Carryout concessions

Lobby Breakfast Kiosk (Convention Center Lobby near the escalator)

Cuisine: Start your day with assorted breakfast items including the chef’s selection breakfast sandwich, fresh fruit, yogurt, croissants and muffins, bagels and danishes. Beverages include coffee, soft drinks, energy drinks, juice, and more.

Wed-Fri

Opens at 7:00am

Style: Carryout concessions

Exhibit Hours

Wednesday 9:00am-4:30pm Thursday 9:00am-4:30pm Friday 9:00am-2pm

Keg Parties (As of printing)

DISCOVERY HALL Wednesday

12:00pm Knapheide, Midwest Salt 2:00pm Russo Power Equipment 2:00pm Russo, Pizzo 3:00pm Alta Equipment, Mariani Plants Thursday 12:00pm Midwest Salt 1:00pm Alta Equipment, Burris Equiupment 2:00pm Holcim Fox River Stone, Kramer Tree Specialists 2:30pm Vermeer Midwest

1st Choice Equipment

Jeff Patterson

1555 Atlantic Drive

West Chicago, IL 60185

Phone: 630.510.6050

Booth # 1209

Email: info@1stchoiceequipmentcom www.1stchoiceequipment.com

A

A A Stone Impex

Nerraj Bhadouria

B-36 Bank Colony, Gola Ka Mandir

Gwalior, M.P. 474006

Phone: 336.609.1113

Email: sales@aastoneimpex.com www.aastoneimpex.com

A Block Marketing

Ron Jesselson

855 E Golf Rd St1133

Arlington Hts., IL 60005

Phone: 847.437.7088

Acorn Farms

John DeHaven

7679 Worthington Road Galena, OH 43021

Phone: 614.891.9348

Email: johnd@acornfarms.com www.acornfarms.com

Acrisure (formerly RWC Insurance)

Eddie Olszta

7239 West Laraway Rd Frankfort, IL 60423

Phone: 815.469.6585

www.acrisure.com/

Advanced Turf Solutions

Emery Brough

282 Messner Dr Wheeling, IL 60090

Phone: 614.905.8383

Email: gpavlovcic@advancedturf.com www.advancedturf.com

AEC Supply, Inc.

400 East Wapella St. Minooka, IL 60447

Phone: 844.225.8339

Email: info@AECSProducts.com www.AECSProducts.com

Aesthetic Metals

Angie Yi

2800 S. Shoshone St. Englewood, CO 80110

Phone: 303.778.0925

Email: hello@aestheticmetals.com www.aestheticmetals.com

Alert Distributing Inc.

Jim Schroeder

16873 Fish Point Road SE Prior Lake, MN 55372

Phone: 952.224.4070

Email: jschroeder@alertdistributing.com www.alertdistributing.com

Allendan Seed Company

Teresa Frome

1966 175th Lane

Winterset, IA 50273

Phone: 515.462.1241

Email: allendan@allendanseed.com www.allendanseed.com

Alliance Gator

Robert Cadieux

1800 Berlier Suite 200

Laval, CA

Phone: 450.624.1611

Email: info@alliancegator.com www.alliancegator.com

Alpha Professional Tools

David Huber

Booth # 2046

Booth # 1201

Booth # 1833

Booth # 2139

Booth # 2128

Booth # 2212

Booth # 221

Booth # 1103

Booth # 219

Booth # 2034

16 Park Drive, Suite 9

Franklin, NJ 7416

Phone: 800.648.7229

Email: marketing@alpha-tools.com www.alpha-tools.com

Alta Equipment

Chris Machalak

420 Nolen Dr

South Elgin, IL 60177

Phone: 888.291.9386

Email: bard.beaulieu@altg.com www.altg.com

Alta Falls Distributing

Ben Geffre

2165 Daniels St Suite 1 Long Lake, MN 55356

Phone: 952.476.2582

Email: ben@altafalls.com www.altafalls.com

Altorfer CAT

Amy Fossum 1030 E Main St East Dundee, IL 60118

Phone: 800.333.593 www.altorfer.com

AmericanHort

Mary Beth Cowardin 2130 Stella Ct. Columbus, OH 43215

Phone: 614.487.1117

Email: hello@americanhort.org www.americanhort.org

Aquascape Designs, Inc.

Courtney Allen 901 Aqualand Way St. Charles, IL 60174

Phone: 630.659.2000

Email: emails@aquascapeinc.com www.aquascapeinc.com

Arborjet / Ecologel

Rob Baughman 99 Blueberry Hill Rd. Woburn, MA 1801

Email: Robbaughman@arborjet.com www.arborjet.com

Ariens & Gravely

Carol Dilger 655 West Ryan St Brillion, WI 54110

Phone: 812.357.5561

Email: cdilger@ariensco.com www.gravely.com

Arlington Power

Carlos Nava

20175 N Rand Rd Palatine, IL 60074

Phone: 847.241.1530

Email: sales@arlingtonpower.com www.arlingtonpower.com

Armintrout’s West Michigan Farms, Inc. Booth # 2145

Zachary Armintrout 1156 Lincoln Rd Allegan, MI 49010

Phone: 269.673.6627

Email: info@armintrouts.com www.armintrouts.com

Arrowhead Ornamentals

Gail Coleman PO Box 157

Hubbard, OR 97032

Phone: 503.651.2040

Email: gail@arrowheadornamentals.com www.arrowheadornamentals.com

Booth # 1701

Booth # 418

Booth # 2030

Booth # 1337

Booth # 107

Booth # 1932

Booth # 816

Booth # 946

Booth #1325

Booth # 2106

Aspire Software Booth # 2207

Megan Broeckling

390 S woods Mill Rd Ste 200

Chesterfield, MO 63017

Phone: 314.402.2641

Email: marcom@youraspire.com www.youraspire.com

Assured Partners

Steve Sturtecky 4350 Weaver Parkway

Warrenville, IL 60555

Phone: 847.745.1780

Email: steve.sturtecky@assuredpartners.com www.assuredpartners.com/warrenville

Booth # 818

Atlas Bobcat Booth # 928

Leslie Anello 1160 McCabe Ave

Elk Grove Village, IL 60007

Phone: 847.678.3633

Email: llurigio@atlasbobcat.com www.atlasbobcat.com

Bad Boy Mowers Booth # 133/435

Kyle Whistle

102 Industrial Dr

Batesville, AR 72501

Phone: 870.698.0090

Email: don.cook@badboycountry.com www.badboycountry.com

Bailey Nurseries

Kellie Baker 1325 Bailey Road St. Paul, MN 55119

Phone: 800.829.8898

Email: plants@baileynursery.com www.baileynurseries.com

Ball Seed

Emily Greene

622 Town Road

West Chicago, IL 60185

Phone: 630.231.3600

Email: tlatelle@ballhort.com www.ballseed.com

Bartlett Tree

Jill Bondi

1901 N. Roselle Rd. Schaumburg, IL 60195

Phone: 847.592.7088

Email: jbondi@bartlett.com www.bartlett.com

Belgard

Ross Thomas 1455 Leighton Tower Rd Mundelein, IL 60060

Phone: 847.949.3600

Email: nfb.custservice@oldcastle.com www.belgard.com/

Better Bilt Products, Inc.

Chris Wojciezek

900 S. Kay Ave Addison, IL 60101

Phone: 630.589.3112

Email: sales@bbponline.com www.bbponline.com

Blu Petroleum

Cindy Hart

21402 W Il Rt 60 Mundelein, IL 60060

Phone: 847.566.5536

Email: support@blupetroleum.com www.blupetroleum.com

Blue Grass Farms of Indiana

Kevin McCart 1915 West 53rd Street Anderson, IN 46013

Phone: 765.649.1012

Email: kmccart@bluegrassfarms.net www.bluegrassfarms.net

Bobbex Inc.

Joe Pirruccio

102 Great Hill Rd

Naugatuck, CT 6770

Phone: 800.792.4449

Email: info@bobbex.com www.bobbex.com

BOLD

Michelle Vilera 1195 Gainsborough Rd., Unit 7 London, ON 0

Phone: 833.472.9960

Email: support@boldpros.com www.boldpros.com

Bombus

Corrine Daniels N2348 Walnut St Juda, WI 53550

Phone: 608.934.5258

Email: service@bombus.eco www.bombus.eco

Bon Tool

Katie Bongiovanni 4430 Gibsonia Rd. Gibsonia, PA 15044

Phone: 724.443.7080

Email: sales@bontool.com www.bontool.com

BOSS

Booth # 1425

Booth # 1405

Booth # 1009

Stephanie Leveling PO Box 674

Manchester, MO 63011

Phone: 636.449.330

Email: stephanie.leveling@TheIntegraGroup.com www.theintegragroup.com

Bowling Nursery

Camille Bowling 2814 Todds Point Rd Simpsonville, KY 40067

Phone: 502.266.9299

Email: bowlingnursery@gmail.com

Braun Nursery

Paull Hopping P.O. Box 160

Mount Hope, Ontario CA

Phone: 905.961.1228

Email: paullh@braungroup.com www.braungroup.com/

Booth # 1629

Booth # 835

# 2113

# 936

# 110

# 2115

Brickworks Supply Center Booth # 1037

Mike Hoffman 8995 W 95th St Palos Hills, IL 60465

Phone: 708.237.9055

Email: info@brickworkssupply.com www.brickworkssupply.com

Buechel Stone Booth # 913

Erik Kral w3639 Co. Hwy.H Chilton, WI 53014

Phone: 800.236.4473

Email: kmeredith@buechelstone.com www.buechelstone.com

Burris Equipment Booth # 1701

Booth # 2

Chris May 2216 N. Green Bay Rd. Waukegan, IL 60087 www.burrisequipment.com/

Jim Larson

Booth # 2012

180 Shepard Ave. Wheeling, IL 60090

Phone: 847.873.0298

Email: jim@capitalstoneworks.com www.capitalstoneworks.com

Carlin Horticultural Supplies/Pro Green Plus Booth # 1225

Nick Noskowiak

8170 N. Granville Woods Road

Milwaukee, WI 53223

Phone: 800.657.0745

Email: info@carlinsales.com www.carlinsales.com

Casey Equipment Co., Inc.

James Cox 1603 E Algonquin Road

Arlington Heights, IL 60005

Phone: 847.437.8686

Email: jim.cox@caseyequipment.com www.caseyequipment.com

Cassidy Tire & Service

Yvonne Kolton

200 S. Church St. Addison, IL 60101

Phone: 630.620.2300

Email: tireinfo@cassidytire.com www.cassidytire.com

CAST Lighting LLC

Judie Runz

1120A Goffle Rd Hawthorne, NJ 7506

Phone: 973.423.2303

Email: info@cast-lighting.com www.cast-lighting.com

Cedar Path Nurseries

Tom Kadolph 15235 W. Bruce Rd. Lockport, IL 60491

Phone: 815.838.4900

Email: info@cedarpath.net www.cedarpath.net/

CENTRAL TREE

Matt Damico 14N705 US20

Pingree Grove, IL 60140

Phone: 847.989.9048

Email: office@centraltree.net www.centraltree.net

Central Turf & Irrigation

Maxwell Paulsen

960 NORTH RIDGE AVE

LOMBARD, IL 60148

Phone: 630.495.5500

Email: lombard@centraltis.com www.centralirrigationsupply.com

Cherokee Manufacturing

Matt Gunderman 150 Bridgepoint Dr So. St. Paum, MN

Phone: 651.451.6568

Email: mattgunderman@cherokeemfg.com www.cherokeemfg.com/

Cherry Springs Nursery

Nathan Bouldin PO Box 7255

McMinnville, TN 37110

Phone: 931.939.5062

Email: info@cherryspringstrees.com www.cherryspringstrees.com

Chicago Gas Lines

Vickie Novak 1118 W Marion Road

Arlington Heights, IL

Phone: 847.414.7876

Email: vickie@chicagogaslines.com www.chicagogaslines.com

Christiansen Farms

Saul Gallardo

12151 W. Wilmington Road

Peotone, IL 60468

Phone: 708.259.7355

Email: saul@christiansenfarms.org www.christiansenfarms.org

Booth # 1435

Booth # 1739

Booth # 1210

Booth # 1101

Booth # 111

Booth # 2028

Booth # 1439

Booth # 2129

Booth # 2234

Booth # 120

Clesen Wholesale

Colette Hogan

316 Florence Ave

Evanston, IL 6022

Phone: 847.869.2257

Email: sales@clesen.com www.clesen.com

Clesens

Matt Kinnard 635 Margate Drive

Lincolnshire, IL 60069

Phone: 262.720.0251

Email: mkinnard@clesens.com www.clesens.com

Booth # 2108

Booth # 326

Colorblends Wholesale Flowerbulbs Booth # 1404

Trish Hanlon 747 Barnum Ave

Bridgeport, CT 6608

Phone: 888.847.8637

Email: sales@colorblends.com www.colorblends.com

Compeer Financial Booth # 844

Mark Ringhouse 1350 Prairie Drive Sycamore, IL 60178

Phone: 815.354.2775

Email: mark.ringhouse@compeer.com www.compeer.com

Connor and Gallagher OneSource (CGO) Booth # 138

Griff Mac Donald 750 Warrenville Rd #400 Listle, IL 60532

Phone: 815.861.1530

Email: gmacdonald@gocgo.com www.gocgo.com

Conserv FS Booth # 1139

Cary Featherstone 1110 McConnell Road Woodstock, IL 60098

Phone: 815.334.5924

Email: cfeatherstone@conservfs.com www.conservfs.com

Contree Sprayer and Equipment Booth # 1427 avid VonBehren W9898 Jackson Rd. Beaver Dam, WI 53916

Phone: 920.356.0121

Email: davev@contree.com www.contree.com

County Materials

Matt Bunch 205 North St Marathon, WI 54448

Phone: 800.242.7734

Email: rachel.richter@countymaterials.com www.countymaterials.com

Booth # 322

Craiger Custom Designs Booth # 414

Eric Hagen 2510 Il Rte 176 Unit D Crystal Lake, IL 60014

Phone: 815.479.9660

Email: eric@craigercustomdesign.com www.craigercustomdesign.com

Curv-Rite Aluminum Edgings Booth # 1538

John Mindling 3603 North Main St Wayland, MI 49348

Phone: 269.792.0044

Email: john@curv-rite.com www.curv-rite.com

Davey Tree Experts

1200 N Lombard Lombard, IL 60148

Phone: 630.422.1870 www.davey.com

Booth # 2141

Dayton Bag and Burlap Booth # 1319

Terry Candella PO Box 436 Union, IL 60180

Phone: 815.923.1234

Email: tcandella@daybag.com www.daybag.com

Decker’s Nursery Booth # 105

Adam Brown 6239 Rager Road Groveport, OH 43125

Phone: 614.836.2130

Email: abrown@deckersnursery.com www.deckersnursery.com

DeVroomen Garden Products Booth # 0

Kristy O’Bryant 3850 Clearview Court Gurnee, IL 60031

Phone: 847.395.9911

Email: sales@devroomen.com www.devroomen.com

Ditch Witch Midwest Booth # 1219

Jeff Patterson 1555 Atlantic Drive West Chicago, IL 60185

Phone: 630.665.5600

Email: info@ditchwitchmidwest.com www.ditchwitchmidwest.com

Doty Nurseries

Ryan Doty 45W121 Beith Rd. Maple Park, IL 60151

Phone: 630.365.9063

Email: sales@doynurseries.com www.dotynurseries.com

Booth # 1505

DPM, Inc./Dutchman Industries Booth # 1017

Brad Williams PO Box 36 Davenport, NE 68335

Phone: 402.364.2186

Email: sales@nurseryjaws.com www.nrseryjaws.com

Dutchman Tree Farms, LLC

Andrew Powell 9689 W. Walker Road Manton, MI 49663

Phone: 231.839.7901

Email: sales@dutchmantreefarms.com www.dutchmantreefarms.com

Dyna

Sandra Cianfarani 37 Creditstone Rd. Concord, ON CA

Phone: 905.761.3309

Email: mail@dyna.ca www.dyna.ca EasyPro Pond Products

Matt Meachum 4385 East 110th Grant, MI 49327

Phone: 231.834.7720

Email: info@easypro.com www.easypro.com

Echo Incorporated

Tim Bartelt

400 Oakwood Rd. Lake Zurich, IL 60047

Phone: 847.540.8400

Email: marketing@echo-usa.com www.echo-usa.com

Encore Lighting Booth # 1526

Ken Rutkowski

2277 Elliott Dr Troy, MI 48083

Phone: 248.299.1919

Email: encorelandscapelighting@hotmail.com www.encorelandscapelighting.com

Environmental Design, Inc Booth # 229

Ellen Lewis 23544 Coons Rd Tomball, TX 77375

Phone: 281.376.4260

Email: ellenlewis@treemover.com www.treemover.com

Envu Turf and Ornamentals Booth # 812

Bob Froelich 5565 Hardwell Dr Hilliard, OH 43026

Phone: 614.969.9040

Email: bob.froelich@envu.com www.us.envu.com

Evergreen Nursery Booth # 124

Vickey Vanderhoof

Evergreen Nursery Co Inc, 5027 County Road TT Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Phone: 920.743.4464

Email: vickey@evergreennurseryco.com www.evergreennurseryco.com

Ewing Outdoor Supply Booth # 2042

Lynn Carter 318 Arrowhead Dr Gilberts, IL 60136

Phone: 847.814.2145

Email: lcarter@ewingirrigation.com www.ewingirritation.com

EZ TOOLS & SPRAYERS/EZ KUT Booth # 2243

Ivan Rodriguez 744 Tesler Dr Lake Zurich, IL 60047

Phone: 847.550.8150

Email: irodriguez@eztoolssprayers.com www.ezkutproducts.com

# 2219

# 2242

# 2146

Eden Valders Stone Booth # 1109

Angelina Triscari-Piwani W4520 Lime Road

Eden, WI 53019

Phone: 920.979.5035

Email: angelina@evstone.net www.evstone.net

Fabriscape, Inc. Booth # 906

Jim Manola 6410 W. 74th Street, Unit D Bedford Park, IL 60638

Phone: 708.728.7180

Email: info@fabriscape.com www.fabriscape.com

Fairview Evergreen Nursery Booth # 2006

TC Phillips 7463 West Ridge Road Fairview, PA 16415

Phone: 800.458.2234

Email: info@fairviewevergreen.com www.fairviewevergreen.com

Feece Oil Co. Booth # 1231

Craig Olsby 517 Twin Rail Drive Minooka, IL 60447

Phone: 888.879.1911

Email: craig@feeceoil.com www.feeceoil.com

Fiore Nursery and Landscape Supply Booth # 1634

Cara Furlong 20433 W. Illinois Route 22 Lake Zurich, IL 60047

Phone: 847.913.1414

Email: payables@cjfiore.com www.cjfiore.com

Fond du Lac Natural Stone Booth # 837

Brett King PO Box 347 Fond du Lac, WI 54936

Phone: 920.923.2800

Email: reneeb@nsvi.com www.nsvi.com

Forrest Keeling Nursery

Cynthia Rubendall

88 Forrest Keeling Lane

Elsberry, MO 63343

Phone: 573.898.8551

Email: info@fknursery.com www.forrestkeeling.com

Four Star Greenhouse

Samantha Toth

1015 Indian Trail Rd

Carleton, MI 48117

Phone: 734.654.6420 www.pwfourstar.com

Fox Ridge Nursery

Kevin Backus 23513 Streit Rd Harvard, IL 60033

Phone: 815.943.1111

Email: kevin@foxridgenursery.com www.foxridgenursery.com

Goodmark Nurseries

Melissa Acevedo 8920 Howe Road

Wonder Lake, IL 60097

Phone: 815.653.9293

Email: info@goodmarknurseries.com www.goodmarknurseries.com

Grand Arbor Supply

Brian Barnard PO Box 151455

Grand Rapids, MI 49515

Phone: 800.423.3789

Email: bbarnard@grandarborsupply.com www.grandarborsupply.com

Grasshopper Company

Doug Randolph PO Box 637

Moundridge, KS 67107

Phone: 620.345.8621

Email: show@grasshoppermower.com www.grasshoppermower.com

Great Lakes Landscape Supply

Jon Bull

15200 Cedar Springs Ave. Cedar Springs, MI 49319

Phone: 616.696.5665

Email: jonbull@greatlakeslandscapesupply.com www.greatlakeslandscapesupply.com

Green Glen Nursery, Inc

Amanda Levins 24900 S Cherry Hill Rd. Elwood, IL 60421

Phone: 815.723.1140

Email: greenglennursery@yahoo.com www.greenglennursery.com

Green Soils Management

Kila Harwick

1100 Brandt Drive

Hoffman Estates, IL 60192

Phone: 847.636.7508

Email: kharwick@greensoilsmanagement.com www.greensoilsmanagement.com

Greenleaf Nursery Company

Casey Rufener 28406 Highway 82

Park Hill, OK 74451

Phone: 918.457.5172

Email: greenleaf@greenleafnursery.com www.greenleafnursery.com

GreenSpace Turf, LLC

David Kocourek

10138 S Bode St Unit E Plainfield, IL 60585

Phone: 262.455.0650

Email: info@greenspace-turf.com www.greenspace-turf.com

Booth # 810

Booth # 912

Booth # 1208

Booth # 2004

Booth # 821

Booth # 2124

Booth # 937

Booth # 1309

Booth # 915

Booth # 911

Halloran Mowerworks

Jill Halloran 2159 N Rand Rd Palatine, IL 60074

Phone: 847.705.1984

Email: sales@halloranpower.com www.halloranpower.com

Halquist Stone

Jeff Brown N51W23563 Lisbon Rd. Sussex, WI 53089

Phone: 262.246.5032

Email: info@halquiststone.com www.halquiststone.com

Harrell’s

Michael Hall 711 Sherwood Dr. Madison, OH 44057

Phone: 740.644.9020

Email: Michael Hall www.harrells.com

Helena Agri

Dan Alsip 1035 Crown Cr. Diamond, IL 60416

Phone: 815.341.4879

Email: alsipd@helenaagri.com www.helenaagri.com/

High Format

Christian Kirby 05481 US 31 S Charlevoix, MI 49720

Phone: 231.547.6595 www.highformat.com/

High PSI

Terry Quandt

75 N. Brandon Drive Glendale Hts., IL 60139

Phone: 630.893.0777

Email: info@highpsi.com www.highpsi.co

Hinsdale Nurseries

JR Tecza 7200 S Madison St Willowbrook, IL 60527

Phone: 630.323.1411

Email: info@hinsdalenurseries.com www.hinsdalenurseries.com

Hoffie Nursery, Inc.

Allyson Hoffmeyer 17102 Marengo Rd PO Box 426 Union, IL 60180

Phone: 815.923.2518

Email: sales@hoffienursery.com www.hoffienursery.com

Holcim Fox River Stone

Jim Slattery 1300 State Rte 31 South Elgin, IL 60177

Phone: 224.213.4287

Email: Jim.Slattery@Holcim.com www.foxriverstone.com

Home Nursery

Hilliary Metzger 5800 Nursery Road Albers, IL 62215

Phone: 618.365.1209

Email: sales@homenursery.com www.homenursery.com

Homer Industries

Booth # 213

Booth # 1537

Booth # 830

Booth # 929

Booth # 406

Booth # 1829

Booth # 308

Booth # 1600

Booth # 223

Booth # 1535

Booth # 1305

Booth # 1321

Josh Doherty 13920 Archer Avenue Lockport, IL 60441

Phone: 815.838.0863

Email: joshdoherty@homertree.com www.homerindustries.com

Hometowne Insurance Services, Inc.

Tim Leverich

4424 Route 71

Oswego, IL 60543

Phone: 630.554.4040 www.hometowneinsurance.com/

Hortech

Jon Eberly

14109 Cleveland St Nuncia, MI 49448

Phone: 616.935.1963

Email: sales@hortech.com www.hortech.com

Hortica, A Brand of the Sentry Insurance Group

Cathy James 1 Horticultural Lane Edwardsville, IL 62025

Phone: 800.851.7740

Email: sales@hortica.com www.hortica.com

Hugh Davis Hort

Hugh Davis

720 N Lake Shore Dr Tower Lakes, IL 60010

Phone: 847 942.5680

Email: hdavis@hdhort.com

Hunter Industries /FX Luminaire

Chris Molloy 1940 Diamond St San Marcos, Ca 92078

Phone: 630.689.7770 www.hunterindustries.com

Husqvarna

Brian Spencer 9335 Harris Comers PKY 500 Charlotte, NC 28269

Phone: 704.517.0295

www.husqvarna.com/us/

Illinois Arborist Association

April Toney PO Box 860 Antioch, IL 60002

Phone: 877.617.8887

Email: april@illinoisarborist.org www.illinoisarborist.org

InOut Labs

Tim Thoelecke 456 W. Frontage Rd., Suite 103 Northfield, IL 60093

Phone: 847.657.7900

Email: tim@inoutlabs.com www.inoutlabs.com

Instone

Rob McKay

5141 W. 122nd St. Alsip, IL 60803

Phone: 708.371.0660

Email: customerservice@instoneco.com www.instoneco.com

Intrinsic Perennial Gardens, Inc.

Brent Horvath 10702 Seaman Rd Hebron, IL 60034

Phone: 815.648.2788 www.intrinsicperennialgardens.com/ Ivanhoe Nursery

Maria Marquez 22149 West Il Rt 60 Mundelein, IL 60060

Phone: 847.566.8001 www.ivanhoenursery.com/

Booth # 211

Booth # 1135

Booth # 1502

Booth # 2116

Booth # 2038

Booth # 2140

Booth # 2133

Booth # 2205

Booth # 2237

J. Frank Schmidt Booth # 1602

Jeff Lafrenz P O Box 189 Boring, OR 97009

Phone: 503.663.4128

Email: talk-to-us@jfschmidt.com www.jfschmidt.com

Jireh Brick & Stone, LLC

Jason Demler PO Box 110 Dale, WI 54931

Phone: 920.574.6448

Email: jason@jirehbrickandstone.com www.jirehbrickandstone.com

Booth # 2228

JJ Kane Auctions Booth # 420

Dan Tomasek 14354 Dearborn Ave South Beloit, IL 61080

Phone: 312.459.6627

Email: dan.tomasek@jjkane.com www.jjkane.com

John Deere Booth # 1635

Mikayla Busby 10789 S Ridgeview Rd. Olathe, KS 66061

Phone: 913.310.8100 www.deere.com

JOHN HOLMLUND NURSERY Booth # 918

Angie Holmlund 29285 SE Highway 212 Boring, OR 97009

Phone: 503.663.6650

Email: angieh@jhnsy.com www.jhnsy.com

Johnson’s Nursery LLC Booth # 1212

Emily Peters W180 N6275 Marcy Rd Menomonee Falls, WI 53051

Phone: 262.252.4988

Email: epeters@jniplants.com www.jniplants.com

Jonathan Green Booth # 2203

Marlena Decher PO Box 326 Farmingdale, NJ 7727

Phone: 732.938.7007 www.jonathangreen.com

JULIE Booth # 2105

Vicki Meyer 3275 Executive Drive Joliet, IL 60431

Phone: 815.741.5000

Email: info@illinois1call.com www.juliebeforeyoudig.com

Kaneville Tree Farms Booth # 1503

Paul Guzzetta PO Box 167 Kaneville, IL 60144

Booth # 2211

Phone: 630.557.2793

Email: paul@ktfinc.com www.kanevilletreefarms.com

Kankakee Nursery Co Booth # 1603

Booth # 1530

Pete Worth PO Box 288 Aroma Park, IL 60910

Phone: 815.937.9358

Email: sales@kankakeenursery.com www.kankakeenursery.com

Keen Edge Company Booth # 834

Bill Burke II 11114 254th Ct. Trevor, WI 53179

Phone: 800.589.4145

Email: info@keenedgeco.com www.keenedgeco.com

Ken Burns, Inc

Michael Green

297 S. Northwest Highway, Unit 2

Park Ridge, IL 60068

Phone: 312. 502.1536

Email: jmichaelgreen@gmail.com www.kenburnsinc.com

Keystone Hatcheries

Mike Robinson 11409 keystone road Richmond, IL 60071

Phone: 815.678.2537

Email: info@keystonehatcheries.com www.keystonehatcheriesllc.com

Knapheide

Darla Heberlein

2600 W. IL Route 120 McHenry, IL 60051

Phone: 815.385.5970

Email: dheberlein@knapheide.com www.knapheide.com

Kramer Tree

Alan Seal

300 Charles Court West Chicago, IL 60185

Phone: 630.293.5444

Email: aseal@kramertree.com www.kramertree.com

Krukowski Stone Co., Inc.

Joanie Krukowski-Whitt 162445 County Road C Mosinee, WI 54455

Phone: 715.693.6300

Email: joniew@krukowskistone.com www.krukowskistone.com

Kuenzi Turf & Nursery

Zach Kuenzi 6475 State St Salem, OR 97317

Phone: 503.585.8337

Email: rick@kuenziturfnursery.com www.kuenziturfnursery.com

Lake County Nursery

Marie McConnell PO Box 122 Perry, OH 44081

Phone: 440.578.5290

Email: mmcconnell@lakecountynursery.com www.lakecountynursery.com

Booth # 434

Booth # 1007

Booth # 1311

Booth # 1431

Booth # 209

Booth # 1334

Booth # 112

Landscape Material & Firewood Sales, Inc

Booth # 905

Ryan Cooper 27W250 Saint Charles Road West Chicago, IL 60185

Phone: 630.231.7911

Email: Ryan@LMFSinc.com www.LMFSinc.com

LandscapeHub

Brian Henning

2045 W. Grand Ave. Ste B (PMB 97272) Chicago, IL

Phone: 630.842.3919

Email: brian@landscapehub.com www.landscapehub.com

LaunchPad (SatQuote)

Beth Broucqsault PO Box 460

Mount Pleasant, SC 29465

Phone: 843.670.5088

Email: beth@sodsolutions.com www.launchpad.bot/

Leaves Inspired Tree Nursery

Jared Stroobants

W3848 Quinney Rd. Chilton, WI 53014

Phone: 920.522.2765

Email: jared@leavesinspired.com www.leavesinspired.com

Lemke Stone

Abby Leister 21575 W Good Hope Rd

Lannon, WI 53046

Phone: 262.502.1579

Email: service@lemkestone.com www.lemkestone.com

Lincoln Nurseries, Inc.

Amanda DeWit

0-142 Lincoln Street Grand Rapids, MI 49534

Phone: 616.453.2351

Email: amanda@lincolnnurseries.com www.lincolnnurseries.com

Lite the Nite

Kristie Fijal

650 E Algonquin Rd Ste. 206 Schaumburg, IL 60173

Phone: 847.496.5276

Email: info@litethenite.com www.litethenite.com

LMN

Shanondoah Nicholson 300 Delaware Ave Wilmington, DE 19801

Email: sales@golmn.com www.golmn.com

Loma Vista Nursery

Kurt Everett 1107 E. 23rd St. Ottawa, KS 66067

Phone: 785.229.7200

Email: kurt@lomavistanursery.com www.lomavistanursery.com

LONGSHADOW

Kailee Burgin 83 Longshadow Lane Pomona, IL 62975

Phone: 618.893.4831

Email: kailee@longshadow.com www.longshadow.com

Lurvey Landscape Supply

Jason Castaneda 2550 E. Dempster St. Des Plaines, IL 60016

Phone: 847.391.0980

Email: sales@lurveys.com www.lurvey.com

Mariani Plants

Mike Mennenoh 7865 Garden Prairie Rd Garden Prairie, IL 61038

Phone: 847.774.6829

Email: mmennenoh@marianiplants.com www.marianiplants.com

Masterblend International/Tyler Enterprises

Booth # 2040

Booth # 2018

Booth # 2118

Booth # 436

Booth # 842

Booth # 202

Travis Williams 4673 Weitz Rd. Morris, IL 60450

Phone: 815.416.1460

Email: office@masterblend.com www.masterblend.com

McCann

Booth # 4

Eric Schoenfeld 543 S. Rohlwing Rd. Addison, IL 60101

Phone: 630.627.0000

Email: sales@mccannonline.com www.McCannOnline.com

McCullough Equipment Group

Booth # 1039

Kyli Markley 7225 Grand Ave. Gurnee, IL 60031

Phone: 224.699.2200

Email: info@mcagplus.com www.mcagplus.com

Kuenzi_halfpage.indd

McGinty Bros., Inc.

Sarah Van Nevel

3744 E Cuba Rd

Long Grove, IL 60047

Phone: 847.438.5161

Email: sarah@mcgintybros.com www.mcgintybros.com

McHutchison

Avery Steinlage 40 Shuman Blvd. Suite 120 Naperville, IL 60563

Phone: 800.943.2230

Email: mjaime@vaughns.com www.mchutchinson.com

McKay Nursery Company

Dave Warning 750 S Monroe St Waterloo, WI 53594

Phone: 800.236.4242

Email: wholesale@mckaynursery.com www.mckaynursery.com

Metal Pless

Kathleen Howard 1683 Bd des Sucreries Plessisville, QC CA

Phone: 514.995.9988.

Email: info@metalpless.com www.metalpless.com

Booth # 1214

Booth # 207

Booth # 1202

Booth # 1801

Michigan West Shore Nursery L.L.C. Booth # 947

Rick Van Dorp III

201 W. Washington Ave, Ste 270 Zeeland, MI 49464

Phone: 800.253.2552

Email: rick@michiganwestshore.com www.michiganwestshore.com

Midwest Compost Booth # 1934

Patrick Murphy 1320 Spaulding Rd. Elgin, IL 60120

Phone: 847.931.2900

Email: info@midwestcompostll.com www.midwestcompostllc.com

Midwest Groundcovers

Maggie Balistreri PO Box 748

St. Charles, IL 60174

Phone: 847.742.1790

Email: mgsales@midwestgroundcovers.com www.midwestgroundcovers.com

Booth # 1509

Midwest Salt Booth # 102

Amanda Foster 1300 W. Washington Street West Chicago, IL 60185

Phone: 630 513.7575

Email: sales@midwestsalt.net www.midwestsalt.com

Midwest STIHL Booth # 825

Sheila Elsey 301 Commerce Parkway Cottage Grove, WI 53527

Phone: 608.839.2211

Email: Midwest.stihl@stihl.us www.stihlusa.com

Midwest Trading Booth # 1409

Jamie Heflin PO Box 398 Maple Park, IL 60151

Phone: 630.365.1990

Email: mtsales@midwest-trading.com www.midwest-trading.com

Midwest Tropicals Booth # 132

Dave Biggus 747 N Church Rd, G11 Elmhurst, IL 60126

Phone: 630 451.0101

Email: info@myfoliage.com www.myfoliage.com

Monroe Truck Equipment Booth # 2020

Rosie Katzenberger 1051 W. 7th St. Monroe, WI 53566

Phone: 800.356.8134

Email: rosie.katzenberger@aebi-schmidt.com www.monroetruck.com

Morris Trailer Sales Inc Booth # 838

Jim Vetek 1805 Ashley Rd Bldg B Morris, Il 60450

Phone: 815.941.2800

Email: rbmorristrailer@gmail.com www.morristrailer.com

MS International Booth # 312 1441 Jarvis Ave. Elk Grove Village, IL 60007

Phone: 847.212.1892

Email: Dalibor.D@msisurfaces.com www.msisurfaces.com

MTI Distributing / Toro Booth # 1837

Jim King 10200 73rd Ave. N#113 Maple Grove, MN 55369

Phone: 563.349.0310

Email: sarah.willis@mtidistributing.com www.mtidistributing.com

Mulch Magic Inc. Booth # 330

Ken Kayser 8535 Arizona Trail Willow Springs, IL 60480

Phone: 708.200.7845

Email: mulchmagicinc@gmail.com www.mulchmagicinc.com

Mulch Mate/Dawson MFG

Craig Carlson 899 Airport Park Rd. #E Glen Burnie, MD 21061

Phone: 888.776.8524

Email: craig@mulchmateusa.com www.mulchmateusa.com

National Nursery Products Booth # 430

Brian Aaron 3650 Golfview Dr Williamston, MI 48895

Phone: 309.258.1630

Email: beatreeman2@gmail.com www.nnpinc.net

Natural Garden Natives Booth # 122

Maggie Balistreri PO Box 748

St. Charles, IL 60174

Phone: 847.742.1790

www.naturalgardennatives.com/ New Growth Designs Booth # 2144

Douglas Orians 225 Martin Street Greenville, NC 27835

Phone: 252.752.6195

Email: douglas@newgrowthdesigns.com www.newgrowthdesigns.com

Northern Family Farms Booth # 1704

Dan Stetzer W10757 Jeffrey Rd. Merrillan, WI 54754

Phone: 800.826.7094

Email: sales@northernfamilyfarms.com www.northernfamilyfarms.com

Northland Farms, LLC. Booth # 917

Brian Boyink 11161 120th Ave

West Olive, MI 49460

Phone: 616.638.0786

Email: bboyink@northlandfarmsllc.com www.northlandfarmsllc.com

NT Trading, Inc.

Ezra Bicioglu

220 Goffle Road

Hawthorne, NJ 7506

Phone: 917.963.7370

Email: Eb@eleganceus.com www.eleganceus.com

Nursery Supplies

Heather Cannon 1415 Orchard Drive

Chambersburg, PA 17201

Phone: 800.523.8972

Email: hcannon@nurserysupplies.com www.nurserysupplies.com

Oakville Stone

Kevin Alves

960 Kamato Road

Mississauga, ON CA

Phone: 905.270.1110

Email: info@oakvillestone.com www.oakvillestone.com

Oly-Ola Edgings, Inc.

Aymie Clayton

124 E Saint Charles Rd Villa Park, IL 60181

Phone: 630.833.3033

Email: edgings@olyola.com www.olyola.com

Omega II Fencing

Chris Hill

11 W College Dr. Unit B Arlington Heights, IL 60004

Phone: 847.577.8900

Email: chris.hill@projectonesales.com www.omegafence.com

Onarga Nursery Company

Lindsey Ishmiel

608 N Oak St

Onarga, IL 60955

Phone: 815 268.7244

www.onarganurseryco.com/

OneDigital Insurance

Fred Schroeder

20 N Wacker Drive Suite 3705

Chicago, IL 60606

Phone: 312.728.7138

Email: fred.schroeder@onedigital.com www.onedigital.com

Open Air Living

Sean Kelley

2900 W. Carroll Ave. Chicago, IL 60612

Phone: 630.388.8372

Email: sean@openairliving.us www.openairliving.us

Oregon Pride Nurseries

Jackie Weisenberger

5380 SE Booth Bend Rd. McMinnville, OR 97128

Phone: 503.472.9147

Email: sales@oregonpridenurseries.com www.oregonpridenurseries.com/

Booth # 2216

Booth # 1335

Booth # 405

Booth # 1005

Booth # 2135

Booth # 808

Booth # 241

Booth # 318

Booth # 2107

Organic Solutions (Trees R Us) Booth # 301

Karissa Ackerman

27881 W. Sullivan Road Ingleside, IL 60041

Phone: 847.366.8869

www.organicsolutionsinc.net

Oscar Wilson Engine & Parts Booth # 235

Tim Short

826 Lome Star Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366

Phone: 800.873.6722

Email: awatkins@oscar-wilson.com www.oscarwilson.net

OxyChem

Heather Stadler

1600 S. Madison St. Ludington, MI 49431

Phone: 231.845.4367

Email: calciumchloride@oxy.com www.oxycalciumchloride.com

Booth # 130

PBI Gordon Booth # 2215

Patrick Bastron 22701 W 68th Terrace Shawnee, KS 66226

Phone: 608.513.115

Email: pbastron@pbigordon.com www.pbigordonturf.com

Peerless Fence Booth # 306

Jonah Nink

200 W. River Drive St. Charles, IL 60174

Phone: 630.584.7710

Email: info@peerlessfence.com www.peerlessfence.com

Perfect Turf LLC Booth # 1035

Janet Trujillo 5540 Meadowbrook Ct Rolling Meadows, IL

Phone: 888.796.8873 www.perfectturf.com

Petitti Family of Farms

Bret Ritter 4654 Davis Rd Perry, OH 44081

Phone: 440.361.7924

Email: info@petittifarms.com www.petittifamilyfarms.com

Booth # 931

Phoenix Irrigation Supply Booth # 2120

Tom Kazmer 101 Eastern Ave Bensenville, IL 60106

Phone: 847.290.0698

Email: tomk@phoenixirrigationsupply.com www.phoenizirrigationsupply.com

Pine Hall Brick

Ed Brewer 2701 Shorefair Drive

Winston-Salem, NC 27105

Phone: 800.952.7425

Email: info@pinehallbrick.com www.pinehallbrick.com

Plantpeddler Inc

Stacy Bryant 530 2nd Ave SW Cresco, IA 52136

Phone: 800.827.1654

Email: info@plantpeddler.com www.plantpeddler.com

PlantRight

Beth Kornegay 9999 Bedford Ave N. Kansas City, MO 64116

Phone: 913.522.9681

Email: beth@dcaoutdoor.com www.plantright.com

Plants Nouveau, LLC

Angela Palmer PO Box 40125

Mobile, AL 36640

Phone: 410.858.0577

Email: angela@plantsnouveau.com www.plantsnouveau.com

Poul’s Nursery

Alan Kjeldbjerg

3754 W Indian Creek Rd Long Grove, IL 60047

Phone: 847.949.6667

Email: info@pouls.com www.poulsnursery.com

Booth # 2117

Booth # 332

Booth # 927

Booth # 2135

Booth # 123

Power Planter, Inc. Booth # 108

Johnny Powers

931 N 1600 E Rd

Loda, IL 60948

Phone: 217.379.2614

Email: johnny@powerplanters.com www.powerplanter.com

Precise Fleet Tracking Solutions Booth # 109

Michael Drelicharz 1617 E Cedar Lane Mount Prospect, IL 60056

Phone: 847.865.6008

Email: michael@precisefleettracking.com www.precisefleettracking.com

Probst Booth # 119

Gary Andres 8626 Hollander Drive Franksville, WI 53126

Phone: 262.884.8000

Email: sales@probst-handling.com www.probst.com

Purple Wave Auction Booth # 342

Anna Ryan 825 Levee Dr. Manhatten, KS 66502

Phone: 866.608.9283

Email: assocation@purplewave.com www.purplewave.com

Rademann Stone & Landscape Co Booth # 2147

Reid Johnston W5551 County Road B Fond du Lac, WI 54937

Phone: 920.922.7612

Email: reid@rademann.com www.rademann.com

Rainbow Ecoscience Booth # 2048

Lee Fredericks 11571 K Tel Drive Minnetonka, MN 55343

Phone: 312.485.9260

Email: lfredericks@rainbowecoscience.com www.rainbowecoscience.com

Ray Murray Inc.

Casey Harvey 50 Limestone Rd. Lee’s Summit, MA 1238 www.raymurray.com/

Reading Rock

Carolyn Nutter 4600 Devitt Drive Cincinnati, OH 45246

Phone: 513.874.2345

Email: info@readingrock.com www.readingrock.com

Red Flint Rock & Stone

Tom Ayres 1 American Blvd. Eau Claire, WI 54701

Phone: 715.855.7600

Email: tom.ayres@redflint.com www.redflintrockandstone.com

Reinders

Sam Adams W227N6225 Sussex Road Sussex, WI 53089

Phone: 262.786.3300

Email: customerservice@reinders.com www.reinders.com

RES Great LakesTaylor Creek Restoration Nurseries

Cindy Whitehead

17921 W. Smith Rd. Brodhead, WI 53520

Phone: 608.897.8641

Email: taylorcreek@res.us www.taylorcreeknurseries.com

Richey Nursery Company Booth # 2109

Mark Richey

6184 Quarterline Rd

Spring Lake, MI 49456

Phone: 231.798.4079

Email: info@richeynursery.com www.shrubliners.com

Robertson Ryan Insurance Booth # 334

Eric Swanson

3880 Salem lake Rd. Suite H Long Grove, IL 60047

Phone: 847.204.6863

Email: eswanson@robertsonryan.com www.robertsonryan.com/swansongroup

Rochester Concrete Booth # 920

Jessica Spadin

325 Alliance Pl Rochester, MN 55906

Phone: 651.346.9778

Email: info@glsindustries.net www.rochestercp.com

Russo Power Equipment Booth # 1729

Collette Jurek 9525 W. Irving Park Rd. Schiller Park, IL 60176

Phone: 847.687.9525

Email: leads@russopower.com www.RussoPower.com

LLC

Barb Burns 3520 Commercial Avenue Northbrook, IL 60062

Phone: 847.729.1963

Email: northbrook@savatree.com www.savatree.com

SEK Surebond Booth # 804

Lynn Walsh 624 W. Illinois Ave Aurora, IL 60506

Phone: 800.932.3323

Booth # 131

Booth # 1041

Booth # 910

Booth # 942

Booth # 422

Email: info@sek.us.com www.sek.us.com

Sester Farms Booth # 938

Miranda Morita 33205 SE Oxbow Dr Gresham, OR 97080

Phone: 503.663.4844

Email: sales@sesterfarms.com www.sesterfarms.com

Sheridan Nurseries Booth # 1015

John Toubia 12302 Tenth line Georgetown, Ontario CA Phone: 647.297.2991 www.sheridanwholesale.com

SiteOne Landscape Supply Booth # 1237

Jessica Cobello 300 Colonial Pkwy Ste 600 Roswell, GA 30076

Phone: 630.488.7650 www.siteone.com

Smart Outdoor Living Booth # 302

Jason Brown 977 S. IL Route 83 Elmhurst, IL 60126

Phone: 630.478.9572

Email: hello@smartoutdoorliving.com www.smartoutdoorliving.com

Spring Grove Nursery Booth # 1501

Becky Thomas 106 E Spring Rd Mazon, IL 60444

Phone: 815.448.2097

Email: bthomas@springgrovenursery.com www.springgrovenursery.com

SavATree,

Booth # 908

Spring Meadow Nursery

Sandy Harmon 12601 120th Ave

Grand Haven, MI 49417

Phone: 616.414.7378

Email: lindsey@springmeadownursery.com www.springmeadownursery.com

SRW Products

Becky Seidel

32005 126th St. Princeton, MN 55371

Phone: 800.752.9326

Email: marketing@srwproducts.com www.srwproducts.com

St. Aubin Nursery

Todd Sullivan 35445 Irene Rd

Kirkland, IL 60146

Phone: 815.522.3535

Email: info@staubin.com www.staubin.com

Stantec Native Plant Nursery

Jason Fritz 128 Sunset Drive Walkerton, IN 46574

Phone: 574.586.2412

Email: nurserysales@stantec.com www.stantec.com/nursery

Stone Universe Inc.

Rashi Aggarwal 2333 Grant Ave

San Lorenzo, CA 94580

Phone: 510.512.0375

Email: rashi@suistone.com www.suistone.com

StoneWall Retaining Walls/ Trench’N’edge Trencher

Patrick Dean 8028 Hill Trl N Lake Elmo, MN 55042

Phone: 651 399.3992

Email: ped@selecticd.com www.selecticd.com

Straughn Farm

Seth Eller

11571 N 4000 E. Rd.

Peotone, IL 60468

Phone: 630.768.4172

Email: info@straughnfarm.com www.straughnfarm.com

Sunbelt Rentals

Doug Gottfried

124 N. Schmale Rd. Carol Stream, IL 60188

Phone: 630.221.1133

Email: doug.gottfried@sunbeltrentals.com www.sunbeltrentals.com

Booth # 1011

Booth # 336

Booth # 904

Booth # 1601

Booth # 817

Booth # 828

Booth # 408

Booth # 1531

Sunset Pools and Spas Booth # 2213

Bettina Hulseberg 1675 Hicks Road

Rolling Meadows, IL 60008

Phone: 847.285.3220

Email: info@sunsetpools-spas www.sunsetpools-spas.com

Superior Wholesale

Tyler Volmering 14124 Bogley St. West Olive, MI 49460

Phone: 616.282.9000

Email: tyler@mysuperiorwholesale.com www.mysuperiorwholesale.com

Holland, MI 49423

Phone: 636.392.3209

Email: info@surelocedging.com www.surelocedging.com

Team Engine Booth # 136

Andrew Mercure 1775 Forest Ave Boulder, CO 80304

Phone: 720.270.2816

www.teamengine.io/

Techniseal

Louise Fortier

300 Avenue Liberté Candiac, QC CA

Phone: 514.523.8324

Email: lfortier@techniseal.com www.techniseal.com

Techo-Bloc

Amira Semid 2397 County Road 27 Waterloo, IN 46793

Phone: 514 295.2289

Email: amira.semid@techo-bloc.com www.techo-bloc.com

Booth # 2224

Booth # 1301

The Belden Brick Company Booth # 2130

Jim Piteo

700 W. Tuscarawas Avenue Canton, Ohio 44701

Phone: 330.456.0031

Email: jim.piteo@beldenbrick.com www.beldenbrick.com

The Morton Arboretum

Jane Wandless 4100 IL-53 Lisle, IL 60532

Phone: 630.968.0074

Email: trees@mortonarb.org www.mortonarb.org

The Mulch Center

Laura Boisvert 21457 Milwaukee Ave. Deerfield, IL 66015

Phone: 847.459.7200

Email: info@mulchcenter.com www.mulchcenter.com

The Pizzo Group

Mandy Leifheit 10729 Pine Rd Leland, IL 60556

Phone: 847.533.5517

Email: mandyl@pizzonursery.com www.pizzonursery.com

The Plexus Groupe LLC

Kristina Randall 21805 W. Field Pkwy, Suite 300 Deer Park, IL 60010

Phone: 888.529.8834

Email: krandall@plexusgroupe.com www.plexusgroupe.com

The Stanley Outdoor Group

JR Warner

The Tree Connection, Inc.

Booth # 1043

Jim Matusik 4168 Oak Tree Circle Rochester, MI 48306

Phone: 248.656.2260

Email: jim@thetreeconnection.com www.thetreeconnection.com

Tillmann Wholesale Growers

Booth # 137

Booth # 2217

Booth # 1227

Booth # 409

Booth # 2132

Booth # 1113

Booth # 201

Surefoot Hardscape Products Booth # 2131

Ed Berg

180 Steeles Ave W, #206

Thornhill, ON CA

Phone: 416.633.1414

Email: ed@surefootedging.com www.surefootedging.com

Sure-Loc Aluminum Edging Booth # 806

Lori VenDenBerg 310 E. 64th Street

Jeff Tillmann 4010 Champeau Rd New Franken, WI 54229

Phone: 920.468.9222

Email: jtillmann@tillmannwg.com

TreeDiaper

Hailing Yang

9424 Atlee Commerce Blvd. Suite E Ashland, VA 23005

Phone: 540.300.1465

Email: info@treediaper.com www.treediaper.com

Triple Crown Products

Laurie Quermemoen

102 Boxhorn Dr Mukwonago, WI 53149

Phone: 262.534.7878

Email: info@triplecrownproducts.com www.triplecrownproducts.com

Tri-State Cut Stone and Brick

Steve Maltese 10333 Vans Drive

Frankfort Il, IL 60423

Phone: 815 641.1364

Email: smaltese@stone-brick.com www.stone-brick.com

TurfMaker Corporation

Dave Myron 4931 Grisham Dr Rowlett, TX 75088

Phone: 972.463.2575 www.turfmaker.com/

Turtle Creek

Rachelle Lurvey Eifert

N5480 Johnson Road Delavan, WI 53115

Phone: 262.214.2058

Email: sales@turtlecreekwholesale.com www.turtlecreekwholesale.com

Twixwood Nursery

Robbie Shannahan

2759 E Shawnee Road, P.O. Box 247 Berrien Springs, MI 49103

Phone: 269.471.7408

Email: info@twixwood.com www.twixwood.com

U.S. Arbor Products, Inc.

Daniel Kallas

389 Miles Pkwy Bartlett, IL 60103

Phone: 630.870.1002

Email: info@usarbor.net www.usarbor.net

Unilock

Kyle Trippeer 301 E Sullivan Rd Aurora, IL 60505

Phone: 630.892.9191 www.unilock.com

United Greenhouse Systems, Inc.

Justin Bilhorn PO Box 249

Edgerton, WI 53534

Phone: 800.433.6834

Email: info@unitedgreenhouse.com www.unitedgreenhouse.com

United Label

Neil Kurz

12900 Berea Rd Cleveland, OH 44111

Phone: 800.726.5153

Email: nkurz@unitedlabel.com www.unitedlabel.com

Vectorworks

Tania Arabian 8621 Robert Fulton Dr Suite 200 Columbia, MD 21046

Phone: 410.290.5114

Email: landmark@vectorworks.net www.vectorworks.net/landmark

Booth # 2010

Vermeer Illinois

Rhonda Williams

2801 Beverly Dr. Aurora, IL 60502

Phone: 630.820.3030

Email: info@vermeermidwest.com www.vermeermidwest.com

Booth # 1805

Booth # 2016

W. & E. Radtke, Inc.

Liesl Thomas W168N12276 Century Ln Germantown, WI 0

Phone: 262.253.1412

Booth # 939

Booth # 114

Email: info@weradtke.com www.weradtke.com

Walker Mid America Booth # 941

Wayland Nikkel 22501 E 299th St Harrisonville, MO 64701

Phone: 816.884.5530

Booth # 2138

Booth # 909

Booth # 1625

Booth # 1500

Email: doug@walkermidamerica.com www.walkermidamerica.com

Walters Gardens Booth # 914

Barb Balgoyen 1992 96th Ave Zeeland, MI 49467

Phone: 800.925.8377

Email: barb.balgoyen.0119@waltersgardens.com www.waltersgardens.com

Warming Trends, Inc. Booth # 814

Lindsay Leaf 1050 W Hampden Ave Suite 200 Englewood, CO 80110

Phone: 303.346.2224

Email: info@warming-trends.com www.warming-trends.com

Whole Earth Compost, LLC Booth # 2122

Denise Macias

2000 E. 122nd St. Chicago, IL 60633

Phone: 312.288.9842

Email: dispatch@jlwtrucking.co www.wecarecompost.com/wecare-products/locations/chicago-il

WI Dept of Agriculture Booth # 106

Liz Meils

2811 Agriculture Dr. Madison, WI 53718

Phone: 608.516.7617

Booth # 1609

Email: DATCPnursery@wi.gov www.datcp.wi.gov

Willoway Nurseries Inc Booth # 1326

Danny Gouge 4534 Center Road Avon, OH 44011

Phone: 866.934.4435

Booth # 1401

Email: dgouge@wwninc.com www.willowaynurseries.com

Wilson Nurseries & Wilson Landscape Supply Booth # 1125

Jennifer Fick 1555 N. US Highway 12 Volo, IL 60041

Booth # 2008

Phone: 847.683.3700

Email: jennf@wilsonnurseries.com www.wilsonnurseries.com

Woody Warehouse Nursery Inc. Booth # 935

Tiffany Stewart 3339 W 850 N Lizton, IN 46149

Phone: 317.994.5487 ext. 3

Booth # 916

Email: sales@woodywarehouse.com www.woodywarehouse.com

Xylem, Ltd. Booth # 1525

Barb Dornfeld

18715 Rt 84 North Cordova, IL 61242

Phone: 309.654.2261

Email: sales@xylemltd.com www.xylemltd.com

The Workhorse of Your Construction and Maintenance Teams

by Meta L. .Levin

You know them. You have them. You couldn’t do your jobs without them. Trailers are an important part of a landscape professional’s day-to-day operations. Trailers come in different configurations, each aimed for different uses. For instance, over the last 10 to 15 years more and more landscape contractors have been demanding extended tongues on their trailers, says Jim Groveau, sales manager at Advantage Trailers. “Longer tongues allow for use with different size trucks,” he says. So, they can be attached to a pickup truck, as well as a wider body truck, which has a wider turning radius.

Nadya Torres at Morris Trailers has noticed that dump trailers are big sellers. The 12 foot is very popular,” she says.

“But it depends on what use you are putting it to.”

People like Luis Arteaga, construction manager at

their versatility. “With a dump trailer, we can haul material and equipment,” he says.

As an example, a crew may need a Ditch Witch® or a skid steer on a job. That can easily be transported, as well as loaded and unloaded thanks to the dump trailer’s ability to incline, allowing this equipment to drive right off or on.

Once equipment is offloaded, the same dump trailer can be used to transport various types of materials, from pallets of stone or pavers to soil or mulch.

Conversely, Arteaga’s colleague at Hursthouse, Maintenance Manager William Chorvat, prefers an enclosed trailer, allowing not only easy transport, but providing more security for smaller tools and other equipment.

Harrison Frank, construction manager for Brookside Landscapes, designates his enclosed trailers for specific jobs, setting them up with all the needed tools and equipment for

Industry Essentials — Can’t Work Without Them

(continued from page 94)

that work. He prefers enclosed trailers, not only for security reasons, but also to protect equipment from the weather. “It keeps the tools and equipment in better shape,” he says.

When buying a new trailer, he goes to the dealership knowing not only exactly how he will be using it, but also what dimensions would work best. “A paver laying machine requires a taller trailer, and there are only a few offered (that would meet the specifications),” he says.

For that use, he typically needs an eightfoot opening in the back. Only certain brands offer that option. “I don’t need luxury,” he says. “I pick and choose where I spend the money.” That does not mean that he is willing to skimp on quality, however.

Frank is not the only one. Michael Bicanic of North Shore Truck & Equipment, Inc., notes that his customers do come in with certain features that they want in their trailers. Some, for instance, prefer twin doors on the back of their enclosed trailers or thicker plywood on the side walls. Standard trailers have one-quarter inch plywood walls, but most of Bicanic’s customers prefer thicker, three-eighth inch, to one-half inch or (continued on page 98)

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Grow Forward

Industry Essentials —

(continued from page 98) even three-quarters of an inch thick, in part because they will be hanging tools and/or shelving on them.

They also like extra cross members on the floors to add stability and strength to handle such items are bigger, heavier mowers, framing them sixteen inches on center, rather than the standard twenty-four inches.

Landscape contractors also request more headroom. Standard interior heights are around five and a half feet, but “normally my customers order six or six and a half feet,” says Bicanic. This allows them to stand comfortably in the trailer when moving or accessing equipment.

They generally do not like side doors on the enclosed trailers, says Bicanic. Those who will be pulling a trailer behind a dump truck, typically order an extended tongue. Standard tongues are three and a half feet, while the extended ones are five feet long. “It gives them more room to turn in a tight spot,” he says.

Trailer manufacturers also have reacted to customers’ wants and needs. Extension flaps on the back were pull down affairs that often broken when used with heavy equip-

ment. Now, however, they are welded onto the door, says Groveau.

Couplers on the tongues can be adjusted up or down, to accommodate different sizes and heights of trucks.

“Instead of building generic trailers, manufacturers have started to develop more products” giving buyers more options,” says Groveau. Many trailers now come with a twelve-inch kickplate around the interior, to protect the interior of the trailer when heavy equipment is loaded. “It’s been very popular with landscape contractors in the last 10 years or so.”The reinforced floors are also popular. “They like floors to be beefed up, so they don’t have to worry about punching a hole in the floor when working the trailer,” he says.

Groveau estimates that there are more than 2000 options available for trailers. Some contractors, however, prefer to customize their own. “We make our own custom cabinets,” says Hursthouse’s Chorvat. “It’s just shelving, steel beam construction.”

One of his signature customizations is bins filled with tools for specific jobs and (continued on page 100)

Industry Essentials — Can’t Work Without Them

(continued from page 98) crew members. Toolboxes on the shelves are color coded for different operations. “It makes it easy for someone to look into the trailer and figure if they have all tools, hoses and whatever else is needed.”

He also likes to put nicer rims on the wheels, so that they do not rust. And he is one of those who stipulates three quarter inch plywood on the sides, “so that we can hang our tools there.”

In addition, he specifies a non-slip flooring.

When buying a new trailer, he looks for something that he can customize, but also that is durable.

Properly maintained, trailers can last a long time –fifteen to twenty years, says Chorvat.

repacked, lights checked, brakes checked, trailers cleaned and washed. The latter is especially important if the contractor has been hauling fertilizers in the truck. They are acidic, which can cause problems if not cleaned out.

Arteaga estimates that the dump trailers he uses also can last at least ten years, if not fifteen to twenty. “They are in good shape,” he says. “We maintain them.”

Of the trailers that Bicanic sells, seven foot by 14 feet is the most common size requested by his landscape contractor customers. With common upgrades, they run about $10,000. He does not even stock the basic trailer, because most customers do not want it.

Groveau says his landscape customers usually want a seven foot by sixteen foot enclosed trailer that runs about $8,000. High end trailers of that size are about $16,000. “It’s an investment,” he says. “Something that will last.”

And they do not come cheap. A brand-new basic trailer, with no upgrades, can cost about $6,000. Chorvat notes that the large sixteen-to-eighteen-foot-long ones he buys run $19,000 to $20,000. He is partial to the Wells Cargo brand, but there are many others.

Regular maintenance is crucial, says Bicanic. Chrovat ensures that the breaks are checked regularly, that bearings are greased and oiled and that the wraps around the outside are redone every three or four years.

Bicanic recommends that each season, contractors have the bearings greased and

Hursthouse has a contract with a mechanic who goes over the trailers twice a year, once in the spring and a second time in the middle of the season.

Arteaga prefers the Sure Trac brand trailers, which he estimates cost between $8,000 and $10,000. “I have been using them and have confidence in them,” he says.

The mechanism on his dump trailers run on electric current, not hydraulics. He had a mechanic install solar panels for charging batteries, but he wishes that he could charge any batteries used off the truck as it is driven to and from job sites.

At Morris Trailers, however, the dump trailers, which Torres notes are less expensive than the enclosed ones, have become increasingly popular. “You can haul more with them,” she says.

When a customer comes in, Torres’ first question is, “What are you going to use it for?” That is crucial to choosing the right trailer. Then they look at a host of features, including whether you need a rounded top, a wedge ramp, a side vent and a tie down. “That’s a big one,” says Torres. “You don’t want equipment to roll around.”

And, much, she says, depends on the brand. “Every one has different features.”

There are many variations, says Groveau. “Now we can meet the needs of different specialties.”

Irrigation

Issues

Regulatory Issues for the Irrigation Industry

A Conversation with Nathan Bowen, Brett Gold and Scott Grams

by Meta L. Levin

If you want a hint of what the Federal, state and local legislation around issues that affect the irrigation industry will look like, check out laws recently passed in the country’s western states, says Nathan Bowen, the national Irrigation Association’s Vice President of Advocacy and Public Affairs. The Landscape Contractor magazine listened in recently, as Bowen discussed those and other issues with Brett Gold, chair of the ILCA’s Irrigation Committee and Scott Grams, ILCA Executive Director. This is the first of two reports on that conversation.

What regulatory challenges do you see on the horizon on the national level and state levels for irrigation professionals?

Nathan Bowen:

At the Federal level it is going to depend on the outcome of the election. Whenever there is talk about water quality, that’s something we pay attention to. There has been a lot of back and forth over the last couple of decades, but especially recently with the Supreme Court decision in the Sackett case (Sackett vs. EPA, 5/25/2023) about the scope of the Federal clean water jurisdiction. We continue to be mindful and engaged about what that does end up looking like, because that will have an impact on our industry, not as directly as some, but there are

certainly some things there that will be impactful for us. In thinking about the upper Midwest, whenever you are talking about water and landscape, water quality just generally with respect to the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico is something we are mindful of. Again, we are going to have to see what the presidential election brings and we are going to have to see what specifically we might be looking at.

There is something that the Irrigation Association and business associations in general have been engaging around: the requirements stemming from the Corporate Transparency Act that require business owners to file reports with the Department of the Treasury relating to their ownership. There is not a lot of awareness out there of the requirements of small businesses and other businesses to file that report and it’s burdensome. We’re working with a host of other associations in Washington DC to push back on that, to have a legislative fix for that report requirement.

I think for irrigation, though, where we’re seeing regulatory impacts is much more on a state and local level. We’re seeing an increase in states adopting product requirements for irrigation products, requiring those products to be more efficient and bear the WaterSense label, which was created as a voluntary program to drive innovation in the space, to drive efficiency, but we are seeing that voluntary Federal program being taken by states and being made mandatory. We are seeing that in a number of states where they are requiring pressure regulating spray bodies bearing the WaterSense label. There are about 15 states that have that requirement and every year we see some more come on board. We are seeing more requirements around irrigation

(continued on page 106)

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Irrigation Issues —

(continued from page 104) controllers. A number of states are starting to require those to bear the WaterSense label. Typically, we see them happen in California and the west and then they come east. We’ve seen spray body requirements come from west to east and I anticipate that we will see that irrigation controller piece going from west to east. More states in the Midwest and the Northeast will be looking at that in the coming years. We are seeing a lot more regulatory activity at the local level regarding when homeowners and businesses can water and the type of plant palette they can use on their landscapes. In some areas that’s very much a state issue, but it’s becoming increasingly a local issue. Again, it tends to be something we see in the west, then moves east.

Brett Gold:

Another thing I’d add in there is the rain sensors. They are required. We can’t even get a permit without a rain sensor involved.

Nathan Bowen:

What we’ve seen in a few states is backflow preventor regulations around who can even touch them. Colorado passed legislation in the last session requiring licensed plumbers to do those and that has proven to be a real challenge. Again, what you see in California, Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, has a way of getting picked up in New York and Pennsylvania and Illinois and other places. One of the things we do see, again trending nationwide, is the kinds of drought restrictions that we are used to in the west, we are now seeing more in the east. In the last couple of years, we saw Massachusetts and New Hampshire put in place drought restrictions around how much homeowners can water or when they can water or what kinds of products they can use. Even in states that are not necessarily drought prone, we have seen pretty significant and severe droughts from time to time. Increasingly, the solutions that they are looking at are very much the solutions that we are seeing in the west. We saw that in Lincoln, NE last year and Massachusetts the year before. Again, that’s a national trend that we are (continued on page 108)

Irrigation Issues

(continued from page 106) seeing more. We are seeing that happening when there is a drought, but some of these are prolonged.

How does the Irrigation Association get involved when you see rules and regulations being brought up that could be harmful to irrigation professionals?

Nathan Bowen:

At the IA we have a team that monitors things like that. It depends on whether it’s at the federal, state or local level. I talked earlier that we have a number of issues at the state government level that are impacting our industry. Especially in those situations, it is absolutely critical for us to collaborate with others across the green industry who are also impacted. So, partnerships with you all and others are critical in that. One of

the things that is really important and critical in our industry in particular, is that increasingly the regulatory impacts that affect our industry are happening at the local level. A trade association can’t have eyes and boots on the ground in every municipality around the country. What that means is that we have to have the infrastructure to support information sharing. We have to have the infrastructure to support collaboration and the infrastructure to support mobilizations. That is one of the things that we as the IA are focusing on. In 2025 it’s one of our big goals: really defining the way we engage at the local level. That’s the future. Not to say there’s no impact at the federal level; not to say there’s no impact at the state level, but we’re seeing municipalities of all sizes - huge cities to small townsregulating and impacting our industry in new ways.

(continued on page 110)

Irrigation Issues

(continued from page 108)

Scott Grams:

Tactically, have you considered any type of pre-emption standard at the state level to avoid a lot of the municipalities making these decisions for themselves? I know that’s an issue that saves us a lot with lawn care and pesticide use, but I’m not aware of anything that’s currently in operation at any state level that pre-empts what’s going on at the local level.

Nathan Bowen:

You see that a lot more on the pesticide side. I think one of the challenges here is Irrigation is regulated in a different way than pesticides. It’s regulated by things like what days you can water,

for how long. Those things are very site specific, very regional. That can be a difficult thing to do from a pre-emption standpoint. It’s hard to make that argument at a state level. What we aren’t seeing as much at this stage are local requirements around products. That’s not to say that’s not coming and that’s not in some places, but that’s not a trend we’re seeing a lot, so I don’t know that it’s mature for a pre-emption approach. That’s a little bit different piece than the pesticide side. As you know, pesticides are incredibly heavily regulated at federal and state levels.

Hydrangea Fatigue?

There’s a treatment for that

by Nina A. Koziol

You might occasionally deal with plant shortages, but what about plant fatigue? What do you do when your client doesn’t want X because “everyone has them” or they don’t like the size of the blooms—they’re “too big, too small, or wrong color.” (And, for as long as you’ve been doing this—you are the artist and pro—remember, the customer is always right.)

Landscape architect Bob Hursthouse loves hydrangeas. “I’ve got probably eight different varieties at my house and we use hydrangeas regularly in our projects,” says Hursthouse, president/visionary of Hursthouse, Inc. “I think they’re awesome. But, hydrangeas were not super popular in

the ’80s. Clients would say, ‘This looks like my grandma’s yard. I don’t want my grandmother’s yard’. That’s all changed.”

At last count, there were more than 70 hydrangea cultivars on the market. “Everybody loves them, but I have a growing minority of clients that don’t want them, and they tell me, ‘Everyone has hydrangeas’,” Hursthouse says. “You need to be smart.” And by smart, you need to know what plant substitutes could fill the bill for the soil, moisture and light conditions for your design. Although Hursthouse says, “There’s nothing that does what a hydrangea does, but we have such a mammoth plant palette to use.” Some possibilities include Judd Viburnum (Viburnum x juddii) and Kodiak Diervilla (Diervilla x Kodiak®). “Think (continued on page 114)

Judd viburnam

Plant Selection Considerations

(continued from page 112) about what seasons the plants are best in. These two shrubs have spring and summer interest and fall color.”

Modifying the Design

“There are three plants for every solution or situation,” says Tony Lobello, design principal with Mariani, Inc. “Do we need more hydrangeas? I do think they’re being overused, but there’s nothing that comes down to their summer bloom and the amount of bloom.” Some of his favorite hydrangeas are QuickFire®, Pinky Winky®, ‘Tardiva’, and Vanilla Strawberry® . “If I can’t get QuickFire, I’ll use Firelight. But it also depends on the client’s preference and the site conditions — sunny or shady. Most of our shrubs are going to be spring bloomers like lilacs and viburnums.”

One alternative to consider is dark-leaved ninebark (Physocarpus). “It has great purple foliage, nice bloom, looks good in summer, and it’s big like some of the hydrangeas,” Lobello says. “And, it works well with so many other plants.”

For Lobello, there are many other possible substitutions. “To me, ‘Nikko’ deutzia, ‘Little Princess’ spirea, Bronx® forsythia, and Spilled Wine® weigela.” are interchangeable because they have (continued on page 116)

THE MIDWEST’S PREMIERE STONE FABRICATOR

Capital Stoneworks has a reputation built on excellence. Our experienced staff and skilled craftsmen are committed to helping you realize your custom stone job.

kind project.

Physocarpus QuickFire®

I t’s Time To Reflect

Plant Selection Considerations

(continued from page 114) similar sunlight requirements, and are similar in form or size. Then you get down to clients’ color preferences — do they like pink or white?”

Diversifying the Portfolio

The demand for hydrangeas—including new cultivars—is unwavering. “It’s a good thing and a bad thing,’ says Mike Mennenoh, general manager at Mariani Plants. “Our best selling plants are Little Quickfire® and Bobo® and won’t get shaken from the top anytime soon.” He notes that Bailey Nurseries is introducing a new smooth hydrangea, Hydrangea arborescens FlowerFull®. “I’m hearing people getting excited about it. I saw it when I toured their nursery and it was a showstopper—the number of flowers—wow! Annabelle is still the top dog that major landscape companies use. I saw the plants next to one another in the field and FlowerFull® was outstanding.”

(continued on page 118)

Hydrangea arborescens FlowerFull®

Spice Girl viburnum

PREMIER TRAITS TO GROW YOUR REPUTATION

DEPENDABLE GENETICS. BEAUTIFUL RESULTS.

Curated to exceed the highest of expectations, the Portfolio Nursery Collection is composed of nursery plants and products that are carefully selected for their unique traits and one-of-a-kind genetics.

‘ GREEN GIANT’ ARBORVITAE

Thuja Plicata X Standishii 'Green Giant'

• Fast growing screening tree

• Low maintenance

• Superior replacement of Leyland Cypress

FEATHER FALLS™ JAPANESE SEDGE

Carex Oshimensis 'ET CRX01'

• Green and white variegated foliage

• Heat and sun tolerant

• Feathery plume in spring

• Cascading habit great for containers, walls, or groundcover

PAINTED SKY™ HYDRANGEA

Hydrangea Macrophylla 'GRENAN'

• Prolific repeat bloomer

• Blooms on old and new wood

• Vigorous grower

• Flower color changes depending on soil acidity

‘ CARNIVAL ROSE GRANITA’ CORAL BELLS

Heuchera x Hybrida

• Excellent heat tolerance

• High-impact, vivid purple with a touch of silver

• Great for shade gardens or containers

• Uniform mounding plant with distinct leaf venation

BRICK HOUSE® ROSE

Rosa Floribunda ‘Meitraligh’

• Excellent disease resistance

• Slightly fragrant, dark red flowers

• Reblooms throughout the season

• Great substitution for Knock Out® Rose

‘SUPERBLUE’ ENGLISH LAVENDER

Lavandula Angustifolia

• Rich blue blooms on short flower spike

• Excellent winter hardiness

• Great landscape performance

• One of the largest blooms among other Lavenders

Plant Selection Considerations

(continued from page 116)

“It’s an easy win from the design standpoint—hydrangeas have great color, very few pest problems, it’s all a win until you get saturation,” Hursthouse says. “It’s all good. But, when you walk through a neighborhood and every house has the same hydrangeas blooming—too little repetition is chaos and too much is monotony.”

Think about the size of the plant in your design. “The Viburnum family is a great family of plants,” Hursthouse says. “They don’t bloom as long as hydrangeas, but they bloom magnificently and have a better fall color than most hydrangeas. If I’m looking at smaller hydrangea replacements, I’ll look at Diervilla—so many different cultivars, stem, flower and foliage color.” He also considers the native spicebush (Lindera benzoin) as a replacement. “I’ve started to use them more and there’s a dwarf variety called Sugar Shack®. It doesn’t bloom as long, but it’s good for pollinators and that’s becoming more important, especially for the client who wants native but neat. Let’s think about that.”

Diervilla Kodiak®

Deutzia Yuki Snowflake®

Deutzia ‘Nikko’

Lindera benzoin

Improving Turf and Controlling Weeds

This unique half day workshop was designed for beginners as well as for more experienced professionals who want up-to-date information on herbicide use principles, and discussion of how to control common green industry weeds. This workshop offered training in weed identification, integrated weed management, selecting the right herbicides, enhancing weed control, and updates on the latest weed research findings.

The workshop was conducted entirely by Dr. Aaron Patton from Purdue University. Patton is arguably the Midwest’s leading expert in turgrass science.

Dr. Patton divided his presentation in to five distinct parts:

• Five Tips to Improve Weed Control and Save Money

• Identifying and Controlling Summer Annual Grasses

• New Herbicides and a BOLO on New Weeds

• Controlling Sedges in Turf & Ornamentals

• Case Studies of Turf Problems in 2024

Dr. Patton brings some 70 fresh examples of weeds and grasses from his greenhouse to provide a hands-on experience.

Dr. Aaron Patton

Bob Bertog brushes up on his weed ID for his weekly radio segment on WGN.

DELIVERY

Because time is of the essence, reduce the idle times of your crews by scheduling deliveries directly to your job site. We can work with your schedule to have your plants delivered on time.

ABOVE GROUND HOLDING YARDS

Have what you want when you need it! Take advantage of our Maple Park and Huntley above ground holding yards.

TAGGING

To ensure that your order is what you would expect, each plant is personally tagged. Visit our nurseries to tag your plant material yourself, or allow our staff to tag for you.

PICK-UP & LOADING

We pride ourselves in providing quality plant material and quick turn around times on our digging. If you need to shift gears to another job, give us a call. Oftentimes, we can have an order dug the same day for pickup.

SUSTAINABLE NURSERY PRACTICES

Sustainable practices like integrated pest management and mechanical cultivation allows us to limit the use of pesticides and herbicides, while our cover crops both conserve the precious soil and provide essential nutrients.

HARDY AND DIVERSE PLANT MATERIAL

We grow and source a diverse selection of plants, both native and non-native that offer the best available genetics with proven performance and cold hardiness in northern Illinois.

MAPLE PARK / ELBURN 45W121 Beith Road Maple Park, IL 60151

HUNTLEY

14029 Church Road Huntley, IL 60142

• Accessories

• Aquatic

• Edging

• Erosion Control

• Ground Covers

• Landscape Fabrics

• Plant Protection

• Retail Support

• Shade Cloth

• Tarps

• Tree Care

• Wildlife Control & Geotextiles

Beyond the Hype: Explore New Plants for the Landscape

By Jamie Heflin

As spring nears, a frequent question we encounter is “What are the latest and most promising plant introductions?” At Midwest Groundcovers, we consistently seek out exceptional plants that offer unique solutions, vibrant colors, or intriguing textures. While new plant introductions often generate excitement, it’s important to approach them with a discerning eye. Will they live up to their potential in real-world landscape settings?

As plant enthusiasts, we prioritize both aesthetic appeal and resilience. We embrace new varieties with cautious optimism, conducting thorough evaluations to ensure they meet our high standards for performance and suitability. We are eager to explore the potential of new introductions, but we only recommend plants that have demonstrated success in our own trials and observations.

For the 2025 growing season, we have identified several standout plants that we believe will be valuable additions to your landscape designs. Some address specific challenges, while others offer superb visual interest.

Carex flaccosperma (Blue Wood Sedge): A shade-tolerant groundcover reaching 6-12 inches in height, this native sedge boasts attractive blue-green foliage and spreads slowly through rhizomes. Thriving in moist, well-drained soils, it exhibits excellent tolerance for heavy shade and deer. Ideal for various applications, including woodland gardens, shade gardens, borders, rock gardens, groundcover, and edging.

Asclepias purpurascens (Purple Milkweed): A recent addition to the Natural Garden Natives® line, this milkweed showcases vibrant deep pinkish-purple blooms. Growing to a mature size of 3 feet tall and wide, it thrives in moist, well-drained soil under full sun to part shade conditions. Compared to Asclepias incarnata and Asclepias syriaca, Asclepias purpurascens exhibits less aggressive growth, making it a suitable choice for clients seeking to integrate native plants into their designed landscapes.

FIND

Midwest Plant Talks —

Amsonia cilliata var. tenuifolia ‘Verdant Venture’ (Verdant Venture Bluestar): The inaugural bluestar introduction from Chicagoland Grows®, this cultivar features narrow leaves, thin stems, and an abundance of flowers adorned with short, broad, powder-blue petals. Its shorter, more compact habit enhances its versatility and reduces its dominance compared to other bluestars. Reaching a mature height of 2 feet and a spread of 4 feet, it thrives in full sun conditions. An excellent substitute for ‘Blue Ice’, ‘Verdant Venture’ provides exceptional bloom performance and a vibrant gold fall color display.

Carex elata ‘Gurre Soe’ (Nordic® Blade Sedge): Discovered by Danish nurseryman Poul Petersen, Nordic® Blade is distinguished by its striking black flower heads in spring, which mature into fuzzy brown spikes throughout the growing season. Exhibiting an upright, clump-forming habit, it reaches a mature height of 2-3 feet and a spread of 3-4 feet. This unique sedge thrives in full to part shade conditions.

Midwest Plant Talks —

Hydrangea arborescens ‘BAIful’ (FlowerFull® Smooth Hydrangea): This smooth hydrangea from First Editions® displays bold blooms and strong, upright stems that resist flopping in windy or rainy conditions. Exhibiting two to three times more blooms than other smooth hydrangeas, FlowerFull® creates a stunning focal point in the garden. It offers improved disease resistance, low-maintenance care, and a compact size of just three to four feet tall, making it suitable for gardens of all sizes.

Viburnum dentatum var. deamii ‘SMVDLS’ & ‘SMVDBL’ (Glitters & Glows® Arrowwood Viburnum): This unique combination from Proven Winners® seamlessly integrates the attributes of All That Glitters® and All That Glows®

viburnums, eliminating the need to select compatible pollinators. Enjoy abundant white flowers followed by showy blue berries in the fall. These compact, glossy-leaved viburnums are ideally suited for smaller spaces and excel as foundation plantings, hedges, or specimen plants. Native to North America, they are deer-resistant, require minimal care, and reach a mature size of 5 feet tall and wide. By carefully evaluating and selecting new introductions, we strive to offer our customers exceptional plants that not only enhance the beauty of their landscapes but also thrive in our unique Midwest environment. We encourage you to explore these exciting new varieties and discover the perfect additions to your own garden.

Charge the future to change the future.

With Husqvarna’s full lineup of commercial battery solutions, it’s possible to lower emissions and noise while keeping your turf in perfect condition. Our battery equipment features an innovative pass-through battery design to prevent dust and debris from obstructing connection points and damaging the tool. The design also optimizes the balance of the powerhead for more comfortable use all day.

Midwest Plant Talks —

Iris germanica ‘MGgrplt24’ (Grape Delight™ Bearded Iris): Originally discovered on the property where the Midwest Groundcovers nursery’s main office is currently located, this bearded iris showcases large, dark purple flowers accented by a yellow throat. The trade name, ‘Grape Delight,’ aptly reflects its strong fragrance reminiscent of grape bubblegum. The attractive blue-green foliage maintains its cleanliness throughout the growing season.

CONTRACTOR OR GARDEN CENTER MEMBERS

All Green Site Management

Jesus Vargas

8110 14th Street W

Rock Island, IL 61201

Email: jesus@allgreenqc.com

Phone: 309-644-9645 allgreenqc.com

ETB LANDSCAPES

Flor Elgin, IL 60124

Email: info@etbls.com

Phone: 224-410-8820 ETBLANDSCAPES.COM

Heartland Irrigation, Inc.

Nathan Christ

Peoria, IL 61612

Email: heartlandirrigation.plumbing@ gmail.com

Phone: 309-369-7612

Joe Joe’s Lawn Care

Joe Herald

1405 E Vernon Ave

Normal, IL 61761

Email: joe@joejoeslawncare.com

Phone: 309-824-9941 www.joejoeslawncare.com

Legacy Lawn + Landscape

Brice Knapp

Goodfield, IL 61742

Email: brice@yourlegacylawn.com

Phone: 309-678-7518 yourlegacylawn.com

Lester’s Material Service Inc.

Ethan Lester

1980 Hwy 83

Grayslake, IL 60030

Email: info@lestersmaterial.com

Phone: 847-223-7000 lestersmaterial.com

PADA

David Margolin

Buffalo Grove, IL 60089

Email: david.margolin@padahg.com Phone: 224-418-7019 www.padahg.com

R & M Snowplowing And Lawn Service, LLC

Ryan Baker Plainfield, IL 60585

Email: randmdg@yahoo.com

Phone: 630-392-5148 rmsnowandlawn.com

FREELANCE LANDSCAPE DESIGNERS

August Henson

Chicago, IL 60630

Email: arhenson1010@gmail.com

Phone: 773-807-3950

Dawn Stroup

Rockford, IL 61107

Email: designsbydawn69@gmail.com

Phone: 815-543-1659

GOVERNMENT OR NOT-FORPROFIT MEMBERS

Lake Barrington Shores

Laura Nicolini

Lake Barrington, IL 60010

Email: laura.nicolini@fsresidential.com

Phone: 847-382-1660

www.lakebarringtonshores.org

23513 Streit Rd., Harvard, IL 60033 www.foxridgenursery.com sales@foxridgenursery.com

New Members —

New Trier High School Dist 203

Chris Rathbone

7 Happ Rd

Northfield, IL 60093

Email: rathbonc@nths.net

Phone: 847-7841-470

Village of Richton Park

Fidel Morales

22022 Belmont Rd. Richton Park, IL 60471

Email: fmorales@richtonpark.org Phone: 708-274-0461 www.richtonpark.org

SUPPLIER MEMBERS

Herc Rentals

Karen Flanagan Streamwood, IL 60107

Email: karen.flanagan@hercrentals.com

Carswell Distributing Company

Andrew Moss

3750 N. Liberty Street

Winston-Salem, NC 27105

Email: amoss@carswelldist.com

Phone: 678-951-5732

www.carswelldist.com

Columbia Green Technologies

Samuel Irwin

79 SE Taylor St #201 Chicago, IL 60659

Email: sami@columbia-green.com Phone: 773-988-9245

EGO

Jason Jones

1203 East Warrenville Road

Naperville, IL 60563

Email: jjones@na.chervongroup.com Phone: 972-955-1033

www.egocommercial.com

John Holmlund Nursery

Butch Edwards 29285 SE Highway 212 Boring, OR 97009

Email: butch.edwards@yahoo.com Phone: 502-876-1481

North Star JCB

James Ryan 31W019 North Avenue West Chicago, IL 60185

Email: james.ryan@northstarjcb.com Phone: 331-465-0000 northstarjcb.com

Robinson Nursery Inc

Adam McClanahan Amity, OR 97101

Email: adammc@robinsonnursery.com Phone: 937-313-0027 www.robinsonnursery.com

Sendin Bookkeeping LLC

2091 Ash St Apt 317

Des Plaines, IL 60018

Email: sendin@sendinbookkeeping.com Phone: 314-441-5762 www.sendinbookkeeping.com

Summerfield Trading, LLC

Kelly Girup 1555 W Fulton St Chicago, IL 60607

Email: kgirup@summerfieldtrading.com Phone: 312-469-8322 www.summerfieldtrading.com

McCullough Kubota 7225 Grand Ave Gurnee, IL 60031 (224) 699-2200

Implement 4620 W US HWY 6 Morris, IL 60450 (815) 942-6220

1966 N. State Rt 1 Watseka, IL 60970 (815) 432-3965

HELP YOUR LANDSCAPES

G R O W

Adding premium compost to planting mixes can dramatically increase nutrients in the soil providing a rich space for plant health and longevity. It will also help reduce maintenance issues and costs.

SOURCING

Finished compost varies from processor to processor. Learn where to purchase compost in Illinois, how to understand compost certification and quality, and the specifications for compost use based on the project.

USCC’s STA and OMRI Listed for Organic are two certification programs ensuring use of high quality compost products meeting established standards appropriate for its intended use

B E N E F I T S

Compost helps reduce erosion by binding soil together, increasing filtration, and slowing the surface flow of water

Compost helps plants survive environmental stressors of droughts and flooding The high organic matter in compost can help sandy soil hold six times its weight in water.

Composting decreases the amount of waste going into landfills which helps reduce methane production and combat climate change “If it grows, it goes!”

Member Profile Snapshot

1982 Ohio Street

Lisle, IL 60532

(262) 844-1391

www.eocaudio.com

by Meta L. Levin

In 2007 James Galla founded EOC Audio, using the best technology available at the time and focusing on partnering with home builders. Since then, EOC Audio has grown and expanded, building partnerships not only with builders, but with interior designers and landscape contractors, as well.

“We have become a leader in high tech indoor and outdoor solutions,” says Jimmy Boettcher, EOC’s business development manager.

It is the move into the landscape industry that, in the spring of 2024, brought the company to ILCA. “We specialize in creating unique outdoor environments,” says Boettcher.

In the early years, EOC concentrated on what are now referred to as smart homes, gradually adding more to that sector, such as Internet access, WiFi, audio and visual components, making the home automated. For many, this is more than just music or access to videos. It can include WiFi that allows owners to control irrigation systems, lighting, sound systems and more.

Now, EOC Audio brings the fun outdoors, says Boettcher.

“Outdoor living is all about creating spaces that feel like an extension of the home.” EOC offers amenities like full sun outdoor TVs and custom lighting.

The full sun television screens are meant to eliminate the glare associated with sunlight shining on televisions. In addition, they can withstand heat, sun and humidity, so customers can put them on patios, outdoor kitchens and in other landscape areas. These can be integrated into existing smart home network control systems.

EOC Audio’s services extend to commercial projects, providing advanced indoor or outdoor audio-visual installations tailored to meet the clients’ needs.

In the early 2000s, the audio-visual sphere was growing fast, largely driven both by advances in technology, as well as customers’ demands, says Boettcher. The business began with just a handful of employees. It now employs 50 people.

Based in Lisle, IL, EOC Audio considers Illinois and Wisconsin as its primary service area. That said, it has gone as far afield as Florida, Puerto Rico, Michigan and Indiana, to serve

customers. Most of these are second homes of current clients and are large projects, says Boettcher.

“All of our products are premium brands,” says Boettcher. “And everything is custom designed.” The company prides itself on eschewing the one size fits all philosophy, instead collaborating with their partners and their customers to identify their wants and needs, then designing a system around those. “We can work with either the landscape designer or the clients. Our designs fit the customer’s needs and budget.”

They also work with the landscape designers to ensure that speakers and other equipment does not stand out. “Everything is custom designed to be discreet within the landscape,” says Boettcher. In other words, they are tucked away where they can blend into the landscape.

All wiring is buried and equipment is designed to withstand the weather, says Boettcher. “It’s rugged and high quality.”

Boettcher, who has a marketing background, enjoys the work he does. With an associate degree in marketing from Moraine Park Technical College, he plunged into the technical world, among other things managing a Best Buy, before Galla asked him to come onboard and help grow the business. “Every job I did had some kind of technical sales aspect,” he says.

Galla and Boettcher share a love of baseball. In fact, Boettcher coaches the sport for his two sons’ teams and has been known to stop for a major league game on the way to a family vacation.

All of EOC Audio’s work is meant to integrate the smart systems, inside and outside. “We want to make it technologically simple and easy to use, while providing a premium experience,” says Boettcher.

Classified Ads

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

Client Care Manager Position(s)

Milieu Landscaping has immediate openings for Client Care Managers. The Client Care Manager position at Milieu performs sales and production management for residential and commercial clients. This position sells Milieu’s services in an upscale territory by providing horticultural recommendations, creative designs, proposals, and presentations. This individual will be able to grow a territory with excellent marketing and advertising support. The ideal candidate should have knowledge in landscape design, build, and maintenance of green spaces. This experience should include design, estimating, horticulture knowledge, turf care knowledge, procurement, scheduling, and installation capabilities. College students pursuing their degree/certification in the landscape industry are encouraged to apply.

Milieu Landscaping is hiring for this season, as well as the 2025 season. Applicants will have the option for an 8-12 month position.

Milieu is an ascending organization dedicated to the growth of our staff and clients. This position will be based in our new, state-of-the-art Lake Zurich facility. How To Apply: Email jobs@milieuland.com

Landscape Architect/Designer

Position: Full-time, Year-Round

Location: Eureka, Illinois (Serving Central Illinois, including Peoria and Bloomington/Normal metro areas)

At Brookside, our mission is ENHANCING LIVES—both for our team members and our clients. We specialize in high-end outdoor living and landscape projects, and we’re seeking a motivated individual to collaborate with our design, sales, and construction teams from concept to completion.

Why Join Brookside Landscapes?

Work on intriguing projects with a team dedicated to exceeding industry standards in design and construction practices.

Be part of a creative, collaborative team that values your growth and input.

Enjoy the opportunity to see your designs come to life!

Join us in redefining outdoor living in Central Illinois— apply today to be part of a team that’s transforming landscapes and enhancing lives, Brookside Landscapes is the place to grow!

How To Apply: Contact Kurt: (309) 573-9837 careers@ brooksidelandscapes.com https://www.brooksidelandscapes.com/careers

Weed Man Lawn Care- Commercial Sales Representative Commercial Sales Representative

Company: Weed Man Lawn Care

Position Type: Remote Territory: Racine/Kenosha, WI; Greater Chicago Area, IL; Merrillville-Valparaiso, IN; Fort Wayne, IN; Greater Cleveland, OH

Weed Man Lawn Care is seeking an experienced Commercial Sales Representative to drive growth in a multi-state territory. This remote role is ideal for a resultsdriven professional with a strong network in the green industry.

Key Responsibilities:

· Leverage existing industry connections to identify and secure commercial accounts.

· Build and maintain relationships with key decisionmakers.

· Act as a liaison between branch teams and account managers to ensure excellent service.

· Develop and execute tailored sales strategies for market growth.

· Utilize CRM tools to track progress and manage pipelines.

Qualifications:

· Extensive industry experience with a strong professional network.

· Proven track record of success in sales or account management.

· Proficient in CRM and other sales tools.

· Results-oriented with strong relationship-building skills.

Compensation and Benefits:

· Base Salary + Commission: Uncapped earning potential. (50-75k+Starting)

· Unlimited PTO and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and 401(k) match.

About Weed Man Lawn Care:

Weed Man Lawn Care is the world’s largest franchised lawn care company, consistently recognized by Forbes and Entrepreneur Magazine for excellence.

Locally, our Lake Bluff, IL branch has expanded to seven

HELP WANTED

Apply:

Send your resume to Patrick Reuteman at preuteman@ weedmanlawncare.us.

Take your career to the next level with Weed Man Lawn Care, where your expertise and connections will drive our growth and success!

Account Manager

Hanson Landscape & Design has been a leader in the Chicagoland Landscape industry for over 18 years and is continually growing. We are seeking an experienced Commercial Account Manager to fill our growing team. Responsibilities include but not limited to, working up proposals, new lawn maintenance and enhancement sales, new sales leads, supervision of crews, customer relations, snow removal sales, and management.

Experience required is 2 years minimum - bilingual is a plus, knowledge of landscape industry equipment, plant knowledge, and driver’s license required.

The position includes employee benefits, such as 401K, health insurance, a company vehicle, and a competitive salary.

How To Apply: Email Andrew@hansonlandscape.com

Operations Manager Needed!

If you’re looking for an employer who is driven by quality instead of investors who are driven by margins, look to Lupfer Landscaping when considering your next career move. Lupfer Landscaping is searching for an Operations Manager to lead our crews and manage the day-to-day operations of the company.

Lupfer Landscaping is a boutique, owner-operated company in the western suburbs of Chicago. We offer a very competitive salary for your experience in the industry, a dynamic family-friendly work environment with an emphasis on work/life balance, health insurance coverage, and ample paid time off.

If you’re a self-motivated, detail-oriented individual with strong interpersonal skills, who takes initiative, and has the ability to work independently and possesses the ability to motivate teams to maximize results, we invite you to submit your application for consideration today.

How To Apply: Email your resume to gretchen@lupferlandscaping.com

Horticulturist

The manager in this position oversees all day-to-day operational aspects of the Chicago Dept of Transportation’s Landscaped Medians and Boulevards. Horticulturist ensures that overall operational performance targets are achieved in relation to service quality, contract costs, and customer expectations. Work includes oversight of median maintenance, watering, boulevard mowing, sourcing, and planting of summer annuals, tulips and tree care.

Classified Ads

The position includes employee benefits, such as PTO, 401K, health insurance and assigned vehicle while at work.

Salary: Based on experience ($54K to $60K)

How To Apply: Email: rmijares@asafehaven.org

Commercial Account Manager

Join our team as a Commercial Account Manager with a company that has been a trusted leader in landscape design and maintenance for over 55 years. Rooted in our core values of heart, artistry, tenacity, and always doing the right thing, you will build and nurture client relationships, ensuring their visions come to life. With a mission to fulfill the dreams of both our clients and employees by designing, building, and maintaining lasting landscapes, you will manage accounts with a commitment to excellence and integrity.

How To Apply: kblock@iltvignocchi.com

Maintenance Superintendent

As a Maintenance Superintendent for ILT Vignocchi, which has been crafting and caring for outdoor spaces for 55 years, you will oversee the maintenance and enhancement of high-quality landscapes. You’ll lead and manage maintenance crews, ensuring that projects are completed on time, safely, and to the highest standards. Guided by our core values of heart, artistry, tenacity, and always doing the right thing, you’ll ensure that our clients’ expectations are exceeded while supporting the professional growth of our teams. With a mission to fulfill the dreams of both employees and clients by designing, building, and maintaining lasting landscapes, you will play a crucial role in upholding our commitment to long-term quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

How To Apply: andy@iltvignocchi.com

Project Coordinator

As a Project Coordinator at ILT Vignocchi, which has been shaping and maintaining exceptional outdoor spaces for 55 years, you will play a vital role in coordinating and managing landscape projects from inception to completion. Our core values of heart, artistry, tenacity, and always doing the right thing will guide your efforts as you work with teams, clients, and vendors to ensure seamless project execution. With a strong focus on planning, scheduling, and communication, you will ensure that every project reflects our mission of fulfilling the dreams of both our employees and clients by designing, building, and maintaining lasting landscapes. Your attention to detail and commitment to excellence will help deliver highquality, on-time results that align with our long-standing reputation.

How To Apply: azych@iltvignocchi.com

Landscape Designer/Landscape Architect Needed

JMR Landscaping is a fast-paced, growing company servicing primarily the northshore and northern suburbs of Chicago. We have a Landscape Designer/Architect position open, reporting to the Director of Design. Our office is located in Libertyville.

Position Summary: The Landscape Designer/Landscape Architect position reports to the Director of Design and is responsible for assisting with the creation of cuttingedge, client-focused designs. You will collaborate with the design team to ensure the successful execution of projects that exceed client expectations.

How To Apply: For further details, email us at careers@ jmrlandscaping.com or visit us at www.jmrlandscaping. com/careers.

Chicagoland Territory Sales Manager

Territory Sales Manager- Chicagoland Market

Xylem, Ltd. / Rocks, Etc. is looking for a motivated, outgoing, self-starter to join our Team. If you have a passion for hardscapes, customer service, and the desire to grow with a company this may be the place for you.

Use this link below for a full job description, or contact sales@ xylemltd.com for more information

Client Representative

CLIENT REPRESENTATIVE POSITION

Our firm is looking to add a core person to our company. This position would involve the following skills and attributes for the right candidate:

POSITION PREREQUISITES:

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills

- Standard use of computer software (Word/Excel/ Outlook/Etc..)

- Ability to understand and identify enhancement opportunities for existing client accounts.

- (2) Year Degree in Horticulture or a like field -orexperience in the Landscape Industry demonstrating a knowledge of Landscape Materials and Landscape Plants. Preliminary knowledge of Plant Health Care is also a great benefit to this position.

- In good standing Driving Record as the position requires visiting client sites in the north and northwest Chicago Suburbs.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Work with the Director of Design and the Maintenance Manager to review sites on a weekly basis using Site Photographs and Quality Inspection Reports

- Communicate with the existing Maintenance Client Base to gain feedback on current program satisfaction.

- Weekly visits to Maintenance accounts to evaluate quality of the service and to generate enhancement opportunities.

- Presentation of Enhancement Proposals to clients including sales tracking/organization.

- Meet or surpass set sales goals every quarter that will enable a set incentive bracket for this position.

POSITION BENEFITS:

- Health Care & Benefits

- 401k with Matching % of Contributions

- Flexible Work Schedule/Self Organization

- Phone/Computer Provided

- Satisfaction of improving sites through enhancement opportunities

- Building Relationships with existing clients and becoming the One Point of Contact for services

- Accredited Design/Build/Maintain Firm with a 25+ year history of producing quality projects and services

- Salary Position with a preset incentive program for surpassing set goals and expectations

- Vacation/Holiday/Winter Break standard with all Salary employees after 90 days.

How To Apply: Phone call discussion allowing candidate and company representative determine if a follow up in person interview is desired by both applicant and employer. 847-949-9245

RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT/ DESIGNER

CB Conlin Landscapes Inc. is a full-service residential landscape design and construction firm located in Naperville, Illinois. We are seeking a talented and experienced Landscape Architect/Designer to add to our collaborative team environment.

Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture, Landscape Design, or related field

- Minimum 2+ years of experience within the residential Landscape Design and Construction field

- Experience with AutoCAD and/or 3D modeling computer programs

- Reliable and professional self-starter with good presentation and writing skills

Responsibilities

With the assistance of our Design and Construction team you will be responsible for designing, presenting, selling, and planning fine exterior spaces for discerning clients throughout the Chicagoland area.

Benefits

We offer excellent salary + commission, health, dental, and retirement benefits.

How To Apply: Please email resumes to slucchetti@ cbconlin.com or contact us at 630-416-8998 for more information.

The Landscape Contractor

Landscape Architect/Designer

About Green Grass:

Green Grass is the leading residential design-build firm primarily servicing the highly attractive west suburban market of Chicago. Since 1995, the Company’s mission has been focused on delivering amazing outcomes for clients by transforming their outdoor spaces. Our winning formula is predicated on providing expert service to our clients and creating an environment that’s supportive, collaborative and promotes individual growth for our team. We are currently looking to add an experienced Landscape Architect/Designer to join our team! This is a full-time position with a hybrid office/remote structure available.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a talented Landscape Architect/Designer to join our dynamic design studio and contribute to our team’s creative vision. You will play a pivotal role in the development and implementation of innovative landscape designs, ensuring the creation of captivating outdoor spaces that seamlessly blend aesthetics and functionality.

● Collaborate with design and sales teams to develop landscape designs that align with client requirements and project objectives.

● Prepare detailed site plans, scaled drawings, and 3D visualizations to effectively communicate design concepts to clients and stakeholders.

● Research and select appropriate plant materials, hardscape elements, and other landscape features to create cohesive designs

● Prepare construction documents, including technical drawings, specifications, and cost estimates, to guide the implementation of the design

● Coordinate and communicate with the sales team, preconstruction, and project managers to ensure the smooth execution of landscape projects

● Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and sustainable design practices, integrating them into design proposals where applicable

● Maintain project documentation, including design files, correspondence, and progress reports, ensuring accurate and organized record-keeping

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

● Minimum experience of 5+ years within landscape architecture/design function or similar role

● Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture or Affiliated Curriculum preferred

● Professional, team player, with good writing & speaking skills

● Proficient in DynaScape Design or AutoCAD; SketchUp or 3D capabilities and Adobe Suite a plus Why We Are Your Employer of Choice:

● Fast-growing company with the ability to build longterm careers and take advantage of future opportunities within the organization

● Culture focused on employee professional development and individual growth

● Entrepreneurial nimbleness coupled with the benefits of a larger, professional organization

● Pay for talent philosophy

● Incentive compensation program

● Funded continuing education opportunities

● Medical insurance and dental insurance

● 401(k) with company match,

● Paid time off and paid holidays

How to Apply: Please visit our website at www.greengrasslandscape.com/jointheteam for more information or contact Brian Casey briancasey@greengrasslandscape.com

Landscape Designer/Architect Needed

Hinsdale Nurseries, Inc., a leader in the nursery and design/build industry, seeks a landscape designer with a minimum of 3-5 years of experience. We are seeking a highly motivated, organized professional who will demonstrate outstanding skills in all aspects of the design/build process including site analysis and managing installation of projects.

The ideal candidate should possess a degree in landscape architecture or landscape design, must be willing to collaborate in a team environment and retain a basic knowledge of estimating. Industry-based plant knowledge is

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also required. Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Microsoft Office is a plus. Hinsdale Nurseries offers a competitive salary and health benefits.

How to Apply: Please email your esume and portfolio to: mdicristina@hinsdalenurseries.com

Assistant Project Manager

Classic Landscape seeks an assistant project manager to join our commercial construction division. This position will work directly under the project managers to assist new construction landscape projects.

Responsibilities

Assist in planning and executing landscape projects

Estimating and Take offs of blueprints

Coordinate resources and materials required for project completion.

Ensure compliance with safety standards and best practices in all project activities.

Review contracts and submittals for specific projects

Skills

Strong leadership abilities to effectively supervise team members.

Knowledge of general landscape practices and plant material

Excellent organizational skills to maintain project schedules and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Problem-solving skills to address challenges that may arise during project execution.

Basic computer knowledge

How To Apply: Email Hire1@classiclandscapeltd.com

We Are Hiring - Join the Chicago Specialty Gardens Team!

Chicago Specialty Gardens, a 30-year-old award-winning design/build firm located in the heart of Bucktown, specializes in the design, construction, and maintenance of urban rooftop gardens and landscapes. We are cur-

rently seeking talented individuals to fill seasonal crew member roles as well as year-round leadership positions on our construction and maintenance teams.

Ideal candidates are self-motivated, detail-oriented, and excellent communicators with a passion for high-quality craftsmanship. Experience working on city rooftops is a plus. For leadership roles, relevant experience and a valid driver’s license are required.

CSG offers competitive compensation, full benefits for eligible positions, and the opportunity to work on some of Chicago’s most unique and exciting projects.

If you’re ready to join a highly skilled team and help shape Chicago’s urban landscape, email Holly France at csgaccounting@chicagogardens.com for specific job descriptions and details. Let’s build something extraordinary together!

How To Apply: Via Email at csgaccounting@chicagogardens.com

Landscape Account Manager

Tired of working for the BIG company where you are just a small fish in a BIG pond? Tired of promises not kept.

Or are you with a small company going nowhere?

My name is Geno Neri the owner of Neri Landscape in Batavia, Il and I have a problem and maybe you can help. You see, I love landscaping; creating, and maintaining beautiful places is my passion. I started mowing lawns when I was a kid and grew my company to where it is today. We have been in business for over 25 years! We provide innovative maintenance techniques for people and communities who appreciate great landscapes.

Oh, my problem, because we continue to grow, I need another great account manager for my company. I’m look-

ing for a mature person who is accountable and has a great attitude. I’m looking for a ‘people-person’ to add to our can do it positive culture.

If you are familiar with Chicagoland landscaping, love to do yard work or speak some Spanish would be a great plus, but by no means a requirement. You will need to live within 30-40 minutes from Batavia, IL; the closer the better and be willing to undergo a basic background check.

What are the benefits of this position? It’s full time with an annual salary. Don’t worry, I’m going to pay you better than my competition so you’re happy, so you can make our clients happy so I can be happy. And there’s more. You get medical insurance, paid major holidays, mobile phone, laptop computer, vacation and most importantly, respect.

So, if you want to work in a small pond and be a BIG fish send me your resume and then let’s talk. You can help solve my problem and perhaps I can help you solve yours.

For more information about my company go to NeriLandscape.com, or call my cell phone (630)338-3557, Email: Geno@Nerilandscape.com

Experienced Landscape Designer/Architect

Kemora Landscapes is a dynamic residential design and build landscaping company located on the north side of Chicago. We are seeking an experienced landscape designer/architect with an interest in urban design to join our team.

Responsibilities include but not limited to: meeting with new clients to discuss their landscaping needs, drafting designs and estimating projects, coordinating projects on site with our crews and communicating with clients to ensure that their project is carried out in the manner you discussed.

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Qualifications include but not limited to: minimum of 3 years of landscape design or landscape sales experience, familiarity with local plants and hardscape materials, outstanding organizational and time management skills and the ability to work in a fast paced environment.

The position includes paid holidays and vacation, an employer matched retirement plan, a commission structure for goals met and a competitive salary.

Salary Range: $50,000-$70,000 Depending on Experience

How to apply: Email Colleen Mulhern - cmulhern@ kemoralandscapes.com

Account Manager

Kemora Landscapes is a dynamic design and build landscaping company located on the north side of Chicago. We are currently seeking an Account Manager to fill our growing team.

Responsibilities include managing our portfolio of maintenance and seasonal rotations clients, driving enhancement sales, meeting with perspective new clients, scheduling and routing as well as managing our teams to ensure high quality results.

Experience required is minimum of 3 years experience in customer service and management related experience, strong written, oral and organizational skills and proficiency with an estimating, CRM and data analytics software system. Must have a current drivers license and a reliable car is a plus.

This position includes paid holidays and vacation, an employer matched retirement plan, bonus structure for goals met and a competitive salary.

Salary Range: $50,000-$70,000 Depending on Experience

How to apply: Email Colleen Mulhern - cmulhern@ kemoralandscapes.com

Landscape Design-Build Consultant(s)

Who We Are:

Green View Landscaping is a national award-winning landscape and maintenance company that specializes in delivering high-quality landscaping services while fostering strong relationships with our clients. We’re seeking Landscape Design-Build Consultants in the Central Illinois Area to drive sales growth and lead project operations. This role offers the opportunity to collaborate with a dedicated team and make a lasting impact on our clients

The Role:

As a Landscape Design-Build Consultant, you’ll be responsible for driving sales, overseeing landscape projects, and ensuring operational excellence. You’ll lead a motivated team, deliver exceptional customer service, and ensure projects are completed with the highest standards.

What You’ll Do:

Drive Sales: Identify new opportunities and provide clients with expert consultations and quotes.

Lead Operations: Oversee daily projects, ensuring efficiency, safety, and quality.

Develop Teams: Mentor team members, fostering collaboration and productivity.

Ensure Quality: Manage project execution to exceed customer expectations.

Maintain Resources: Ensure tools, equipment, and inventory are ready for success.

What We’re Looking For:

Experience in sales and landscape operations or a related field.

Leadership skills to inspire and guide teams. Strong communication and customer service abilities. Organizational skills to manage multiple projects effectively.

Why Join Us?

Be part of a dynamic, service-driven team committed to

quality and growth.

Enjoy professional development opportunities and career advancement.

Work in a collaborative environment where your contributions are valued.

Ready to Apply?

If you’re passionate about landscaping, sales, and leading teams to success, we’d love to hear from you!

Salary Range: $60,000-$70,000 Base Salary + Commission

How to apply: Email our Director of Landscape Sales & Operations, Justin Dean at jdean@greenview.com

Grounds Maintenance Account Manager(s)

Who We Are:

Green View Landscaping is a national award-winning landscape and maintenance company that specializes in delivering high-quality landscaping services while fostering strong relationships with our clients. We are seeking Maintenance Account Managers in the Central Illinois Area to drive sales growth and oversee the quality execution of our maintenance and snow removal services. This role offers the chance to lead a dedicated team and make a meaningful impact on outdoor environments.

The Role:

As a Maintenance Account Manager, you will be responsible for generating maintenance service sales, managing daily operations, and ensuring customer satisfaction. You’ll lead a motivated team, optimize efficiency, and uphold safety and quality standards.

What You’ll Do:

Drive Sales: Identify and pursue new maintenance service opportunities.

Lead Operations: Oversee daily maintenance projects, ensuring timely and high-quality completion.

Support Clients: Provide consultations, proposals, and ongoing client engagement.

Develop Teams: Mentor maintenance crews to achieve excellence in service delivery.

Ensure Safety: Enforce safety procedures and compliance on all job sites.

What We’re Looking For:

Experience in sales and landscape maintenance operations or a related field.

Strong leadership and team management skills. Excellent communication and customer service abilities. Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks effectively.

Why Join Us?

Be part of a dynamic, service-driven team committed to quality and growth.

Enjoy professional development opportunities and career advancement.

Work in a collaborative environment where your contributions are valued.

Ready to Apply?

If you’re passionate about sales, landscape maintenance, and leading teams to success, we’d love to hear from you!

Salary Range: $60,000-$70,000 Base Salary + Commission

How to apply: Email our Director of Grounds Maintenance, David Pence at dpence@greenview.com

Landscape Architect / Designer with Sales Expertise

About The Barn Landscape + Architecture

At The Barn Landscape + Architecture, we create exceptional outdoor spaces that bring visions to life. From custom residential landscapes to large commercial projects, we deliver outstanding results through creativity, innovation, and precision.

Our Core Values:

Exceed customer expectations, always.

Lead confidently with dependability.

Work hard, smart, and safely with respect.

Inspire greatness through trust.

Enjoy teamwork and collaboration.

Position: Landscape Architect / Designer with Sales Expertise

Role Overview: Blend creative landscape design with strategic sales. Design stunning outdoor spaces and build strong client relationships that drive growth. Ideal candidates are creative problem-solvers, excellent communicators, and motivated professionals.

Key Responsibilities:

Develop innovative landscape designs, integrating hardscapes, pools, planting plans, water features, lighting, and outdoor living elements.

Conduct site visits, listen to client needs, and deliver personalized designs.

Prepare and present detailed proposals with confidence. Identify opportunities, communicate value, and close sales while fostering client trust.

Collaborate with project managers and construction teams to ensure precise project execution.

Stay updated on industry trends and best practices.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture, Design, or related field.

Minimum 3 years of design experience with a strong portfolio.

Proven sales success and ability to build client trust. Proficiency in design software (AutoCAD, SketchUp, Structure Studios, Adobe Creative Suite) and plant/material knowledge.

Strong interpersonal and presentation skills.

Team-oriented with a strong work ethic.

What We Offer:

Competitive base salary with performance-based incentives Professional development and career growth opportunities. Collaborative, supportive team environment. Access to the latest design tools and resources.

Why Join Us?

At The Barn, we foster a workplace where creativity, trust, and teamwork drive success. We believe in working smart and hard while enjoying the process.

How to Apply: Submit your resume, portfolio, and cover letter highlighting your experience and alignment with our values to info@barnlandscape.com.

Join The Barn Landscape + Architecture and help us create something extraordinary!

Salary Range: $70-120K

How to apply: Email to info@barnlandscape.com

Landscape Specialist 12575 Uline Drive, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158

Have a love for landscaping? Appreciate meticulously maintained turf? Bring your passion to support our mission to make Uline’s Corporate campus a beautiful place to work.

Maintain Uline’s beautiful grounds, including mowing, weeding, fertilizing, pruning, watering, pest and disease control as well as trash and debris removal

Uline, a family-owned company, is North America’s leading distributor of shipping, industrial, and packaging materials with over 9,000 employees across 13 locations.

Uline is a drug-free workplace. EEO/AA Employer/ Vet/Disabled

Salary Range: Pay Based on Qualifications (Position is in WI) How to apply: https://www.uline.jobs/JobDetails?culture=en&jobid=R25 0373&jobtitle=Landscape-Specialist

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Before You Go — Impactful Bunchflower

By Mark Dwyer

While I’m perpetually interested in seeing new plants whenever I visit gardens both near and far, I enjoy being stumped and challenged by plants that elicit a “What the heck is that!?” reaction. Such was the case when I stumbled upon Virginia bunchflower (Melanthium virginicum) in a residential garden in southern Wisconsin a couple summers ago. I noted the tall, statuesque, showy white flower stalks from the car as I was parking and heading up closer to visit this garden as part of a local garden tour. Additionally, upon closer inspection of the unknown flowers, I was confounded by the interesting, grass-like, basal foliage rosette. The gardeners at this home, admittedly, are quite cutting edge so I shouldn’t have been surprised to note a complete unknown right in the front yard. Their entire garden was amazing. After seeking out the resident gardeners, accurate identification was provided and I’ve been a huge fan of this uncommon native plant ever since that day.

The bunchflower or Virginia bunchflower (Melanthium virginicum, syn. Veratrum virginicum) is a member of the Liliaceae family (or Melanthiaceae for those that may classify further) and is both striking and unusual at the same time. The rosette of slightly arching, basal leaves is prominent with individual leaves only about 1” wide but 10-20” long. Widely distributed throughout eastern North America (including Illinois) but not common, this perennial is hardy from zones 4-8 and is most commonly found in bogs, marshes, lowland prairies and moist, open woodlands. Its native haunts certainly allude to the need for adequate moisture and this elegant accent plant has found

application in rain gardens and prominently moist landscape situations in both full sun and part shade. While bunchflower may reseed, it takes many years for seedlings to reach flowering age. Shallow-rooting, rhizomatous roots are likely to create clonal offsets. Bunchflower doesn’t mind clay soils and is resistant to both deer and rabbit browsing. Browsing is effectively discouraged as the plant is highly toxic.

When blooming in June through early August, this perennial reaches 36”-60” in flowering height and features a tall inflorescence topped with a panicle of creamy white flowers. The flower stalk is quite sturdy and the upright, erect nature of the flower structures offers a strong vertical contribution like you might see with Verbascum, Delphinium, Eremurus, etc. Peak flower color, while typically a creamy-white, can vary a bit into the green range and as the blooms mature, they may transition to more green, purple or brown. The flowers are odiferous (not in a good way!) and attract flies, beetles and

some bees and wasps. The straw-colored seed capsules in late summer are also interestingly ornamental. There are no major insect or disease issues with this perennial. The biggest challenge for this plant is sourcing and procurement. While seed sources abound, plants are more scarce. I hope this plant finds more valid attention and use in our wetter landscapes going forward.

BLOOMINGTON, IL - INTERSTATE CENTER

ST. LOUIS, MO

Tues. Feb. 11, 2025

KANSAS CITY, MO

OMAHA, NE

WHEATON, IL - DUPAGE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

Tues. March 11, 2025

8:00 AM // EVENT 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM OTHER LOCATIONS AND TIMES

Tues. Jan. 14, 2025 - Morning Spanish- Afternoon EnglishPurina Farms

Thurs. Jan. 16, 2025 - Morning Spanish- Afternoon English -

Wed. Feb. 5, 2025

Harrah’s Kansas City Hotel & Casino

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum

Wed. March 12, 2025 & Thurs. March 13, 2025 - SpanishFri. March 14, 2025 Hardscape Fundamentals

MILWAUKEE, WI

MADISON, WI

MINNESOTA, MN

Tues. Mar. 18, 2025 - Spanish -

Wed. Mar. 19, 2025

Tues. Mar. 25, 2025

County Expo Center

Alliant Energy Center

Canterbury Park

Wed. Mar. 5, 2025

SOUTH BEND, IN Century Center

FALLS, SD

Thurs. Mar. 27, 2025 Prairie View Event Hall

Waukesha

SIOUX