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June 2020

CONTENTS Excellence In Landscape Awards Project

FOCUS: Plant Diseases and Pests Four Fungal Plant Diseases for Spring A seasonal peek at the usual suspects

Growing Turf in Low Light 18 Dr. Aaron Patton provides insight Creating Beautiful Outdoor Spaces 22 A look at the design style of Jan Johnsen iPix Photo Awards from iLandscape 2020 Stunning images produced by industry members

EN ESPAÑOL

Cuatro enfermedades fúngicas para la primavera Four Fungal Plant Diseases for 2020

The Most Serious H/R Mistakes Landscapers Make 38 Common pitfalls to avoid Social Media: Connecting with Clients Some basic socila medis skills and strategies

Show Anxious Employees That You Care Some good tips to keep the team happy

Diseases & Pests 57 Bagworm and Fire Blight Hidden Landscape Gems Anderson Japanese Gardens

On the cover... C.B. Conlin and Night Light won a Gold award for this Residential Landscape Construction project titled Elevated Winnetka Residence. The Landscape Contractor June 2020

62 3

CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS ILCA Calendar From Where I Stand President’s Message New Members Classified Ads Advertisers Index Photo Credits

ILCA Awards Committee U of I Plant Clinic ISU Plant Disease Clinic Dr. Aaron Patton Jan Johnsen Anderson Japanese Gardens

A Note about COVID-19

4 5 7 48 58 61

Readers of this magazine should not think we are trying to avoid dicussion of the COVID-19 pandemic. That information has been extraordinarily presented with the COVID-19 daily email from Scott Grams and the dedicated COVID-19, ILCA Facebook page. The Landscape Contractor magazine will continue to focus on its normal landscape design/construction/maintenance/ and general buiness content. We hope this approach provides a brief respite from the stresses of the day.

Calendar

1, 8-9 10 16 19-21 22-28 62

AUGUST

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

August 27, 2020 Turf Education Day

Volume 61, Number 6. 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.

SEPTEMBER

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

September 10, 2020 Golf Outing

PRODUCT DISCLAIMER: The Illinois Landscape Contractors Association, its Board of Directors, the Magazine Committee, ILCA Staff, The Landscape Contractor and its staff, neither endorse any products nor attest to the validity of any statements made about products

ILCA Staff

Magazine Staff

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

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

Education Manager AnneMarie Drufke adrufke@ilca.net

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

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

OCTOBER October 20, 2020 The Impact Conference

Meta Levin

Feature Writer

at dotynu rseries.co m to recei ve our

meta.levin@comcast.net Nina Koziol n.koziol@att.net

Feature Writer

dotynurseries.com

Heather Prince

Shade TreeS • OrnamenTalS • evergreenS • ShrubS

ILCA

princeht@sbcglobal.net

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

Patrice Peltier

Feature Writer

Feature Writer patpeltier@charter.net

Ryan Doty sales@dotynurseries.com

P 630 365 9063 F 630 365 9081

45W121 Beith Road Maple Park, IL 60151

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From Where I Stand — As we wrap up our second month in quaran-

tine, it seems like all of us are changing to adapt to our new reality. In those first 30 days, we felt like toddlers. Sure, we were scared by a lot, but we approached our days with childlike wonder. We revisited pet projects and explored new hobbies. After work, we inched out of our homes for nightly walks maintaining wide, silent distances between those we passed by. We spent our night’s e-learning about this new virus seeing what new research or development could stop COVID-19 in its tracks. We explored our hidden potential, set goals, reembraced our families, and made the best of a world with brand new boundaries and rules. If the first 30 days were childhood, the next 30 days were adolescence. We got restless, cranky, and withdrawn. We wanted to sleep until noon and go out cruising with our friends. We procrastinated on our pet projects. We took chances like inching our driveway lawn chairs closer to our neighbors for those Friday night beers. New information on COVID-19 was met with, “Whatever, just tell me when it’s over.” In Illinois, we saw our friends in Georgia and Texas and Wisconsin and whined, “C’mon, their parents are letting them hangout with their friends!” Only to have our leadership reply, “Well, I’m not Wisconsin’s mother! If that’s how they do things in their family, maybe you should go live with them!” We folded our arms and stormed-off deep down knowing they loved us and only wanted to keep us safe. The mood on social media and around the country changed to. The first 30 days we used social media to reconnect virtually where we could not be physically. It became a vital lifeline to feel close to each other while miles or even 6’ apart. However, the old demons began to creep back in. Sadly, we saw the same arguments, charlatans, misinformation, and trench warfare that cause so many of us to despise our virtual community. The usual battle lines got drawn in the ongoing political and culture wars that we are letting define us in this country. I am hoping the next 30 days bring a sense of maturity and wisdom. It is time for all of us to grow up a little in this new reality. About one third of all attendees at iLandscape purchase the more expensive education pass. The ILCA Education Committee requests a substantial budget annually and we gather the best minds, authors, and experts in the horticulture and landscape communities. I put the ILCA’s annual educational program up against any in the country for its breadth and depth. The Education Committee reads, analyzes, and mines thousands of session evaluation forms for nuggets on how to improve the next program and with whom. They attend conferences of their own and read countless books, white papers, and blogs to find speakers with the perfect balance of expertise, practical knowledge, and presentation skills. The proof is in the pudding. Every year, the education attendance numbers have grown. We feel that the iLandscape program makes the landscape industry better. It perfectly matches the passions of lifelong learners who understand that even with decades of past experience, there is always room for more knowledge, wisdom, and paradigmshifting. Now, let’s imagine we treated the iLandscape educational programs like how we argue about politics. Imagine if we announced we had one of the leading experts on horticulture in our field as the keynote speaker. We billed this person as having all the answers to all of your most

pertinent landscaping, lawn care, and horticulture issues. Then we drew back the curtain and revealed a politician or a talk show talking head or an AM radio DJ. The audience would be in shock. Immediately, we’d say, “What! This person doesn’t know anything about landscaping and horticulture. Where is the expert you promised?” Let’s take it a step further, instead of having our usual book seller offering volumes of books on landscaping, horticulture, and plants we lined up guys who made Facebook memes and sketchy YouTube videos in their apartments. We asked our attendees to line up to have their favorite 10-word meme signed by some guy who’s never been in a greenhouse or picked up a shovel. Our most popular sessions at iLandscape are the ones where landscape professionals stand on a stage and come clean about their mistakes. They detail all the times they approached a problem completely wrong and gleaned essential wisdom from the failed outcome. They offer humility and laugh about their errors because it became a teachable moment in their quest to become a better professional. No audience wants someone to arrogantly stand in front of them and say they should be listened to because they’re never wrong and never make mistakes. We’d roll our eyes and say, “Next.” Our iLandscape audience would never accept this. Our program would be a laughingstock. Our numbers would plummet. We’d fail at our mission to provide education that improves the lives and livelihood of landscape professionals. Our commitment to knowledge is not just limited to our jobs. If anyone has ever shared a beer with the Breier family of National Seed (and who hasn’t) the conversation always turns to sports. We list the top 5 best quarterbacks or the best NBA starting lineups of all time. We all have intense and unbreakable sports loyalties, yet sports arguments rarely devolve into cross-eyed shouting matches. Sports fans pride ourselves on our knowledge, but we can have spirited discussions without raised blood pressure or feelings getting hurt. We disagree like adults and we aren’t silly enough to think our point of view is the only point of view that matters. In most every other walk of life, we acknowledge ignorance and embrace knowledge. Look at our hobbies. Cooks share recipes and techniques. Musicians noodle and riff. Fitness enthusiasts share workout routines and song playlists. Pet lovers discuss training methods and accept a melting pot breeds. Look at the wisdom we receive from our grandparents and senior citizens who look back at their one and only life where each regret serves as a stepping stone to every triumph. Yet politics is that one blind spot where it all goes out the window. Maybe I was naive to think COVID-19 would bring out the best in America. We’d realize how silly and trivial political differences are against an enemy that doesn’t care about borders, religion, gender, or politics. In addition, I ever expected a political dogfight on an issue where every single person wants the exact same outcome - for this disease to be quickly eradicated, with little loss of life, so we can rebuild our economy and relationships again. When we find ourselves searching for disagreement on an issue where everyone universally agrees - we aren’t being true to our ideals - we are just bored siblings in the back of a car looking for something to fight about. I’m sorry, but there is just too much on the line to act like bored adolescents. We cannot let our ideologies get bigger than our brains.

The Maturation Process

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

From Where I Stand — When ILCA accepted the awesome responsibility to try and help our members get through this crisis, we agreed we had to be timely, honest, and transparent. Our members were depending on us to wade through the clutter and provide a “boots on the ground” reality to how businesses could get through this crisis. We didn’t create a narrative and then pick and choose what information to dispense that fits that narrative. We didn’t say, “Well 80 hours of paid leave is a lot for COVID-19 and could hurt businesses so let’s just not tell anyone about it.” That’s wrong and unethical, especially when there are literal lives on the line. I’ve had to field calls from panicked members when COVID-19 entered their workplace. I personally know those who got sick and, sadly, I know of fatalities. Thankfully, our closed Facebook group has avoided the nonsense. On my way to access the group I float over a news feed that exists in a different reality. An alternative reality where every interaction is part of some epic struggle between good and evil or public health vs. the economy or hard science vs. conspiracy theories or left vs. right. I try to race past it as quick as I can, but it is hard not to get discouraged. Look, I get it. I love consuming the news. I understand the gravity of these issues even as I abhor political theater. I love non-fiction books and read countless articles in an attempt to not sound like a moron (yes, I realize I have more work to do!). I understand that after a hard day, sometimes it’s nice to relax in an easy chair and immerse ourselves in a biased media world where we are never wrong. Where experts are made up out of whole cloth and facts that run counter to our beliefs are a threat and must be eliminated. It’s satisfying, but deeply, deeply unhealthy. The calendar is about to turn on our next 30 days of this reality. All indicators show a light at the end of the tunnel. I think back to The Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918-19. I can’t fathom how terrifying that must have been as it swept across the country claiming the lives of 750,000, many of them children and young adults. I can’t imagine how the world could emerge from that threat with anything else on its mind besides peace and prosperity. Yet, 20 years later, we were fighting World War II. Maybe this is our destiny. No matter how many times we are shown what really matters we will retreat to a world where only our own beliefs matter. Maybe we have been in the backseat of the car too long where the only feelings left are the sting of the last punch we received from our sibling. So we ball our fist, once more. Personally, I don’t believe that is our destiny. These past 60 days in our industry, I’ve seen too much sacrifice, humility, and honesty. I’ve talked too many quaking voices through what to do next. Inside all of us is that desire to self-improve. That desire to learn how to landscape, bake bread, play a G-chord, or housebreak a puppy. So next time someone says they are an expert here to tell you the truth, it’s responsible to question their expertise and motives. If you find them lacking, simply do what you’d do at iLandscape - walk out of the room and don’t look back.

Regards,

A L L TO G E T H E R B E T T E R 6

Scott Grams Executive Director, ILCA May 19, 2020

The Landscape Contractor W W W. M A R I A N I P L A N T S .COM

866-627-4264

June 2020

President’s Message — And change continues...

It’s been a year since my July 2019 article that read: “we live in a world where the only constant is change”. Of course, COVID-19 arrived and fundamentally changed the whole world and the question is now: How have we changed? Reminiscing, the list is long of what we’ve learned; many jobs can be performed at home, others should receive better pay, and it’s possible to set aside our personal interests so that the collective health becomes paramount. However, there is still much to do; with record figures of unemployment of more than 30 million, reopening state economies is turning into a long unsure process, but inevitably its in motion. Sam Zell, billionaire realtor, said “We are permanently scarred by having lived through this pandemic, but the impact to the economy and society will be comparable to what the Great Depression did to our grandparents.” Even though our industry is considered essential and we have maintained course; the impact to Illinois’ and America’s economies because of COVID-19 is there, we will now have to recover and promote the other less fortunate sectors. For my part, I can only express what a pleasure and honor it has been to be given the opportunity serve as the President of this Association this last year. Our achievements are a result of the dedication from the hundreds of volunteers that have given their knowledge, time, passion, patience, and perseverance for the love of the ILCA and the industry. Once again, it has been an extraordinary privilege to serve you. The change either gradual or accelerated, will keep being part of our existence. I invite you all to live and remain healthy with positive attitudes towards your families and our organization.

President

Jose Garcia Natural Creations Landscaping, Inc. (815) 724-0991 info@naturalcreationslandscaping.com

Vice-President

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

Secretary-Treasurer

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

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

Directors

Eric Adams Russo Power Equipment (847) 233-7811 eadams@russopower.com

Best Regards,

Jennifer Fick Wilson Nurseries and Landscape Supply (847) 683-3700 jennf@wilsonnurseries.com

José M. Garcia, President of ILCA

Allan Jeziorski Hartman Landscape (708) 403-8433 allanj@hartmanlandscape.net

¡Y el cambio continua!

Jeff Kramer Kramer Tree Specialists, Inc, (630) 293-5444 jwkramer@kramertree.com Dean MacMorris Night Light, Inc. (630) 627-1111 dean@nightlightinc.net Kevin Manning K & D Enterprise Landscape Management, Inc. (815) 725-0758 kmanning@kdlandscapeinc.com Ashley Marrin Bret-Mar Landscape Management Group, Inc. (708) 301-8160 ashley@bretmarlandscape.com Mark Utendorf Emerald Lawn Care, Inc. (847) 392-7097 marku@emeraldlawncare.com

www.ilca.net

Hace un año, en mi artículo de julio del 2019 les decía: “Vivimos en un entorno en que lo único constante es el cambio.” Así llegó el COVID-19 y permanentemente alteró al mundo entero, la pregunta ahora es: ¿Cuánto hemos cambiado?: Recapitulando positivamente, la lista es larga de lo que hemos aprendido; nos dimos cuenta que la mitad de los trabajos se pueden hacer en casa; que algunos deberían tener mejor paga; que es posible dejar un momento nuestros intereses particulares para enfocarnos en el bien colectivo, para mencionar algunas lecciones. Sin embargo aún falta mucho por hacer, con una cifra récord que supera treinta millones de desempleados, la reactivación de las economías estatales se torna lenta e incierta, pero inevitablemente en marcha. Sam Zell un billonario de Bienes Raíces dijo “ Vamos a quedar con una cicatríz pemanentemente por haber sobrevivido a esta pandemia, pero el impacto en la economía y en la sociedad será equiparable al que dejó La Gran Depresión.” Aún cuando nuestra industria es considerada esencial y hemos mantenido un ritmo de trabajo aceptable, el impacto en la economía de Illinois y de USA por el COVID-19 está ahí, ahora tendremos que recuperarnos e impulsar todos los sectores por un bien común. Por mi parte solo me queda decirles que fué un placer y un honor la oportunidad de fungir como Presidente de la Asociación todo este año, en el que los logros obtenidos, son simplemente el reflejo de la dedicación de cientos de voluntarios que entregan su conocimiento, tiempo, pasión, pacencia y perseverancia por el amor a la Asociación ILCA y a la industria. Solo agregaría que ha sido un extraordinario privilegio servirles. El cambio , ya sea gradual o acelerado, seguirá siendo parte de nuestra existencia... Los invito a vivirlo manteniéndonos sanos y en actitud positiva con nuestras familias y organizaciones. Saludos cordiales,

José M. Garcia Presidente de ILCA The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Native Landscape Contractors • Lemont Pine Dunes Preserve

The Illinois State Toll Highway Authority

Additional goals of the restoration and expansion were to provide habitat for threatened native birds such as the red headed wood(ISTHA) as part of the Elgin O’Hare Western Access Project pecker, eastern bluebird, and least flycatcher. Wetland birds, repacquired 315 acres to expand the Pine Dunes Forest Preserve. tiles, and amphibians will be supported by planting and managing This area was used to perform over $8 million in wetland mitinative prairie, savanna, woodland, and wetland communities. gation for ISTHA, providing approximately 85 acres of quality This project included removal of drain tile, control of invasive wetland habitat. Native Landscape Contractors, LLC was awardspecies, planting of over 159,000 native aquatic and emergent ed the native vegetation establishment and maintenance contract plugs, and seeding of over 200 acres of prairies, woodlands, and in 2014. wetlands. NLC continues to perform maintenance and monitoring The primary goal of the work was to provide quality wetland activities through 2019. mitigation for impacts by off-site ISTHA construction projects. 9 The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Focus — Plant Diseases & Pests 2020

Four Fungal Diseases for Spring by Heather Prince

With a mild winter and cool spring, fungal plant

diseases are popping up in landscapes far and wide. As you assess client spaces, be on the lookout for these four fungal problems so you can be proactive in treatment. Fungal pathogens benefit from wet spring weather, and we chose two relatively new problems and two that regularly alarm clients every year. We consulted with university plant clinics in Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, and Indiana to provide a regional update on four problems that should be on your radar this spring. Although it seems to make the news every year, only a smattering of boxwood blight cases occur throughout the Midwest. With the prevalence of boxwood in our landscapes, however, it’s a good idea to be able to recognize this devastating pathogen as immediate treatment is key to slowing and stopping its spread. Blight has been reported on cut boxwood greens used for Christmas decorations, so there is the potential for inadvertent introduction into the landscape. Boxwood have taken a number of hits the past couple of years, and it may also be a good idea to look at alternatives. The challenge is finding something with as much versatility and formal appeal.

Boxwood blight (Calonectria pseudonaviculata) rep-

resents first as dark leaf spots that may have a slight ring pattern that progress to twig blight and rapid defoliation. Look for dead spots in hedges and individual plants and inspect plant parts. Boxwood blight isn’t the only fungal pathogen that can cause twig dieback or dead patches, and it’s easy to classify winter damage, volutella blight, macrophoma leaf spot, or phytophthora root rot as blight. Clients may also lump all boxwood problems into ‘blight’. The big difference is that boxwood blight causes extensive defoliation and rapid death. The other pathogens listed cause foliage to brown or go tan, hold on the plant, and are far less likely to cause plants to die. They are easily pruned out and controlled. Boxwood blight first presents as dark roundish splotches with yellow halos on leaves that may have white spores on the underside as the disease progresses. Rapid defoliation starts at the bottom and moves upward into the canopy. A key symptom that differentiates boxwood blight from other boxwood diseases is that narrow, black streaky cankers develop on green stems. During periods of high humidity, 10

white, fuzzy masses of numerous spores will develop from these black stem cankers and can be observed with a hand lens. This pathogen does not attack roots, but repeated defoliation and dieback from stem cankers can kill young plants quickly. If you suspect boxwood blight, send samples to your state plant clinic for confirmation. Once the disease is detected, good sanitation is critical. Remove and bag diseased plants and fallen leaves and dispose or bury them. Where permitted, you may burn infected plants. Do not compost infected plants or plant debris as it will not kill the pathogen. Research has found that the fungus can persist in the soil for five years or more, which (continud on page 12)

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

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Focus — Plant Diseases & Pests 2020 (continued from page 10) means any replacement boxwood planted in the same site is likely to become infected. There are fungicides that are effective at protecting plants from boxwood blight infection, but they do not cure plants with the disease. Fungicides should be applied when temperatures exceed 60°F and rainfall is expected. Effective products include a rotation of chlorothalonil or fludioxonil. You will need to apply fungicides every seven to 14 days to protect susceptible boxwood. Growers are working on developing resistant boxwood varieties, and they are beginning to hit the market. Look for Little Missy and the NewGen™ series.

Sudden oak death (Phytophthora ramorum) was found in Wisconsin in 2019 on infected nursery stock of azalea. “There was only a single detection, but there were substantial numbers of potentially contaminated azalea plants and red ‘Double Knockout’ rose shrubs that were brought into the state and sold before the problem was discovered,” reported

Brian Hudelson, of the Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic at University of Wisconsin-Madison. It was first reported in California and has subsequently been found in other US states, as well as Europe. It can be found on a wide range of woody and herbaceous plants, but is fatal to oak trees. Symptoms of sudden oak death vary greatly depending upon the plant species infected, but on oaks, look for dark brown leaf spots and blotches with fuzzy borders starting along leaf margins. The tricky part is these leaf symptoms may resemble more common leaf spots and blights or may mimic sunburn or leaf scorch. Twigs and branches that become infected often wilt and form a shepherd’s-crook at the tips, subsequently dying back. Infections on tree trunks lead to cankers that produce large amounts of amber to black ooze that can dry and stain bark. Remove the bark over the affected area and you’ll find discolored wood beneath that sometimes, but not always, has a black border. Cankers can eventually expand to girdle trunks,

killing the tree or shrub. So far, trunk infections do not appear to extend into the root system. Once sudden oak death cankers develop, other pathogens may move in, accelerating tree or shrub death and complicating the diagnosis. Rapid wilting and die back of branch tips can be a symptom of ramorum dieback as well. Phytophthora ramorum can be spread over long distances through movement of infected plants or infested plant parts. The pathogen can also be moved with contaminated soil or in contaminated water. Once established on plants, the fungal spores can be spread by rain splash or wind. There is currently no cure. Because Phytophthora ramorum is a regulated, quarantined pathogen, only remove a sample for diagnosis and do not remove the plant. Send the sample to your state plant clinic in a sealed container. Make sure to decontaminate any tools or materials that come in contact with the plant. If it is sudden oak death, the plant will be destroyed to prevent the infection from spreading. (continued on page 14)

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The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Focus — Plant Diseases & Pests 2020 (continued from page 12)

Anthracnose diseases are some of the most common

problems of broadleaf shade trees in our area. This group of fungal diseases becomes severe when cool, wet spring weather persists as leaves are first emerging. The most commonly affected trees are ash, oak, maple, and sycamore, although you may find it on dogwood, birch, elm, walnut, butternut, hickory, and others depending on the year. This is a host-specific disease, so it won’t pass between trees; each tree species has its own fungus species. Symptoms of anthracnose diseases are irregular leaf spots and blotches most often near the veins of a leaf causing it to curl and distort. Leaves may die and drop, causing client alarm. Fungi that survive in leaf litter will have spores carried up with spring rains and wind, so damage is usually found on the lower branches of the tree. If you see curled or twisted leaves at canopy tips or on exposed edges, it may be frost damage instead. In some tree species, especially sycamore, the pathogen can cause branch cankers, causing twigs to die back or produce distinctive witch’s brooms. The good news is that this disease does not usually cause tree death. Vigorous trees that lose their first leaves usually will push out another set, so it is important to guard tree health. Fungicide treatments are not recommended as by the time you spot damage, it is too late to treat and it is common on large shade trees, making

coverage by fungicides difficult. For high-value trees of smaller scale, however, fungicides may be applied starting at bud break the following year. Fungicides listed for anthracnose include chlorothalonil, mancozeb, propiconazole, and copper-based formulations. (continued on page 16)

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Focus — Plant Diseases & Pests 2020 (continued from page 14)

Rhizosphaera needle cast

(Rhizosphaera kalkhoffii) is one of the most common fungal diseases of Colorado or blue spruce (Picea pungens). It can also be found on other spruce trees, but blue spruce seems to be among the hardest hit, especially mature trees. Wet spring weather the past few years has accelerated this disease and made it far more prevalent. You’ll first notice browning on the innermost needles on the lowest branches, with the tips of twigs remaining healthy. In the early stages, affected needles may turn purple or lavender before browning. When examined with a hand lens, rows of black spheres about the size of a grain of pepper run the length of the needles. These are the fruiting bodies. Eventually, infected needles fall to the ground. Fallen needles are a good vector for repeat infection as spores are bounced back into the tree by rain. Cleaning up fallen needles will help limit the spread. Rhizosphaera can be treated with copper or chlorothalonil fungicides, although they will act as a preventative for further infections, not a cure. Apply every three to four weeks starting when new needles emerge in spring and con-

tinue into summer and drier weather. Treatment is best done on small or specimen trees as large mature spruce are difficult to cover effectively. If using spruce in the landscape, make sure they have plenty of air movement, good drainage, and full sun to maintain tree health. These are just a few of the plant diseases moving through the landscape

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

in spring. The university extension services are here to help as well as The Morton Arboretum and Chicago Botanic Garden. By paying attention and scouting, not only can you save valuable landscape plants, you may also be able to add another line item to your invoices.

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The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Turf Update —

Growing Turf in Low Light A Presentation by Dr. Aaron Patton

by Meta L. Levin

Turf needs light to grow, but conditions

often mean there is too little or poor quality light available. Sometimes, property owners have unrealistic expectations of where it is and is not possible to grow grass on their lawns. If you are nodding in understanding, then you would have been right with Aaron Patton during his Turf Education Day presentation, “Growing Turf in Low Light, Shaded Environments.” Patton, interim department head and professor in Purdue University’s Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, took attendees through a basic primer on photosynthesis, the process by which plants trap the sun’s energy to build carbohydrates to use as stored energy. It is a lightdependent action and that light comes from the sun. At this point, we will need a glossary, albeit a short one: 1. Shade environment: an area with reduced light, moderated temperatures, low air movement, high humidity, and longer periods of leaf wetness 2.

Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR): The term for wavelengths of the visible light spectrum, between 400 and 700, which plants use for photosynthesis.

Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD): The units used to measure PAR

Daily Light Integral (DLI): A 24-hour measurement of PAR

So, how much daylight do grasses need to grow? “This is a question we are still trying to answer,” says Patton. It is dependent on several factors, not just sunlight, including temperature, grass species, mowing height, and plant nutrition. In fact, the shorter you mow the grass, the more light it will need, says Patton. There are apps, such as Sun Seeker, that help track the amount of sun on different spots. In the case of Sun Seeker allows you to track the sunrise and sunset times, as well as check the sun position and solar path over the lawn. The cost is $9.99, if you are interested. An app like this will help you not only show the path over the lawn, but give you an idea of where the most shade is coming from, where it’s going to be in a couple of months, and where it was a few months ago. “Most grasses prefer full sun, except on the scorching

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Labor and time saving jobsite solutions Measuring photosynthetically active radiation (PAR)

days of summer,” says Patton. “It depends on which turf species you grow.” The rest is not, he says, down to a science “as much as we would like.” Tools like the apps do help turf specialists go in the right direction. It is frequently the case, says Patton, that a resident’s front yard looks beautiful, but not so the shaded back yard. If a landscape contractor tells the client there is not enough light in the back yard to grow grass turf, that is much different than pulling out a meter that can measure the PAR or DLI, which “shows professionalism and gives your argument more credibility,” says Patton. Not all grass species have equal shade tolerance. Even so, it takes at least four hours of sunlight a day to grow the most shade tolerant turfgrasses. “Keep in mind that six hours of sunlight between 6 am and noon is much less than six hours of sunlight between 9 am and 3 pm, as light intensity is greatest at midday,” says Patton. For instance, Bermudagrass needs eight or more hours of full sunlight daily and Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and zoysiagrass all need six or more hours of full sunlight daily. (continued on page 20)

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Turf Update — (continued from page 19) While some sunlight can filter through tree leaves, its quality is less than full sunlight. More far red light passing through the trees to the turf, means that the turf will not grow as well under the shade tree. Plants absorb red light and reflect or transmit most far red light, which is not useful in photosynthesis. “A typical symptom of too much far red light is leaf elongation,” says Patton. Chlorophyll absorbs the red and blue wave lengths. We see the tree and turf leaves as green, because that is what is reflected at us. “If the turf gets too much far red wave lengths, it will cause turf to be thin and weak,” says Patton. Believe it or not, there are different types of shade.

•

When light is filtered through trees, it is called dappled shade. It creates a moving pattern of sunlight and shade, decreasing both quality and quantity of sunlight on the turf.

•

Open shade, on the other hand, typically is found in a north-facing yard and is cast by an adjoining wall, fence, or building. Known as neutral shade, the distance of the shadow varies with the season and affects the light quantity, but not quality.

•

When open shade is further obscured by trees, it is known as medium or dense shade and decreases both the quality and the quantity of the light that can reach the turf.

•

Any of these types of shade can be dry shade, which occurs because most trees have shallow roots, removing nutrients and water from nearby turf.

•

Any types of shade also can be wet shade if the occur in poorly drained or low spots. This is,

however, less common under mature trees and more common adjacent to buildings. •

Beset by lack of quality light and/or poor-quality light, turfgrass may eventually die in shade. Often, the lighting situation is exacerbated by disease, tree root competition for moisture, and foot traffic.

So, what do you do?

Start out by planting trees with turf in mind. For instance, with heavy shade trees, like maple, elm, linden and tulip, you can expect less than 15 percent light transmission. Moderate shade tree species, such as oak, poplar, and hickory, provide slightly more light transmission. “A small improvement in light penetration will help long-term turf maintenance,” says Patton. Use technology to help estimate the amount of shade. There are, like so many other things, apps for that. If a tree is causing the low- and poor-quality light situation, Patton recommends trimming lower branches and removing understory plants to improve air movement. If the property owner agrees and the proper permit is granted, it may be necessary to remove some trees altogether to improve the turf. Once the situation is established, follow some management guidelines. Shaded areas, says Patton, need less nitrogen fertilization, so he recommends reducing the nitrogen fertilization by 50 percent in shaded areas. These areas also need mowing less often, because they grow less and don’t tolerate traffic as well. These shaded grasses have a thinner leaf cuticle and are prone to injury from traffic. They also are slower to recover from damage. When irrigating a shade area, remember that turfgrass under trees may need more irrigation in summer and early

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

fall months, but will need it less often next to buildings. Patton recommends seeding shade tolerant grasses in shaded areas to increase turf cover. Use such grasses as fine fescues (Chewings, strong creeping red, or slender creeping red fescue) and tall fescue for most shaded areas, and rough bluegrass or supina bluegrass, in wet areas (warning, neither of these bluegrasses is well adapted to summer). Some common weeds are more problematic in shade. They include: annual bluegrass, common chickweed, ground ivy, nimblewill, rough bluegrass, and wild violet. On the other hand, weeds, such as crabgrass, goosegrass, and prostrate spurge are less challenging. When using an herbicide, Patton warns to be sure to check the label for any restrictions under the drip line of trees or in areas with exposed tree roots. Typically, shaded areas have poor air movement, higher humidity, increased leaf wetness, and plants with thinner leaf cuticles, making them more susceptible to diseases, such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, melting out, and microdochium patch. Moss and algae can be secondary problems caused by thin turf.

Plant growth regulators (PGRs) can improve the quality of turf growing in shaded areas for a variety of reasons: •

They reduce the growth rate, so there is less leaf elongation.

•

They increase carbohydrate reserve, thus giving the grass more energy.

•

They increase density, so there is more photosynthesis.

Of those PGRs that can help, Patton suggests trinexepac-ethyl as the “best option”. The PGRs aren’t readily available to homeowners, but can be applied by lawn care professionals. Using artificial light in areas of high economic importance, like a professional stadium, is expensive and provides only a small benefit, he says. In lieu of grasses, Patton notes that mulching around tree bases and using shade tolerant ground covers around trees are useful alternatives in heavy shade areas.

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Creating Beautiful Outdoor Spaces Design Basics —

by Nina A. Koziol

How do you shape a residential client’s land-

scape so that it’s both beautiful and serene, a place that uplifts them, and that is profitable for you? Landscape designer Jan Johnsen of Johnsen Landscapes & Pools in Mt. Kisco, New York, offered a master class at this year’s iLandscape to address those ideas. “Our mission is to transform properties into outstanding outdoor settings that are truly enjoyable,” said Johnsen, who has 45 Jan Johnsen years of experience in landscape design and build and runs the company with her husband. “My aim is that you don’t know the project was ‘designed.’ That’s the hardest of all to do.” When Johnsen was teaching, she said students would often ask, ‘what are the rules?’ “They wanted to know the rules, but I don’t call them that — they are design basics. [Landscapers] talk about rules for rain gardens, native plant gardens, pollinator gardens, and more, but we sometimes forget that we have to make them beautiful. I don’t have a list of rules — I think of them as design basics.” The students’ questions led her to write Gardentopia: Design Basics for Creating Beautiful Outdoor Spaces, (Countryman Press, 2019). The book has 135 design ideas, a blend of large concepts and small details. Her presentation was based on the book. “Her talk was very inspiring,” said Allie Corbett of Clarence Davids in Matteson. Rachelle Frosch, horticulturist at The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, also attended the session. “I wanted some fresh ideas,” Frosch said. “It was a fun one to attend — she’s very personable and approachable.” Here are some features Johnsen discussed.

The Mystery of the Unseen

“A half-hidden vista encourages people to explore a space because the mystery of the unseen is quite tantalizing,” Johnsen said. “If you see only a partial view of a landscape, you will invariably move forward to see what is ahead.” To make a small outdoor space more interesting or appear larger, you can use an ancient Japanese design technique known as miegakure or ‘hide and reveal,’ she explained. “This entails partially obscuring a view or features in a garden to create an illusion of distance.”

Gates

A unique metal gateway makes the entry into a garden special. “Right from the beginning, you know you are entering another world. So why not go on a gate hunt to find something distinctive for your client? It’s the power of the portal. Gates and arches add to the drama of the space. A gate stops the eye, making a small space larger.”

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

(continued on page 24)

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Design Basics — (continued from page 22)

Movable Chairs

Graceful Sweep of a Curve

The sweep of a curve lends a gracious air to a landscape. “Your eye cannot help but follow it around,” Johnsen said. “By laying out a plant bed or even a walkway in a strong, playful line, you invite people to explore. And a curved flower bed combines color and shape to make a garden more enticing.”

The Long View

“Long, straight views inexorably lead the eye and you cannot help but follow its line to the end. Therefore, grab the lengthiest straight line you can in an outdoor space and use it to its best advantage. A long view may involve looking diagonally across the space or down a slope.”

Standing Stones

Pots and Urns

“When the plants are grown and the beds are filled, that is when you can place a large pot of flowers within that bed. The contrast of flowers above the foliage makes quite a lovely sight.” She is fond of using tropicallooking plants, such as cannas and caladium in containers as well as contrasting vivid colors. But, for some clients she’ll feature containers with plants of one color—all white or all red, for example. “You cannot go wrong when you combine flowers and foliage that are in the same color family.”

Yin-Yang: Opposites Attract

Don’t overlook boulders as potential features of interest. “They can make a great theme.” Although Midwestern gardens rarely have the types of boulders found on the East Coast, Johnsen suggests using a few as accent pieces in or around a patio or placed in a border.

“The flexibility of lightweight, moveable furniture makes an outdoor setting more user friendly.” Johnsen notes that public gardens are starting to use lightweight metal chairs so patrons can arrange the furniture however they want.

“Yin yang in the garden is the contrast between hard and soft,” Johnsen said. This Asian philosophy describes two opposites that form a harmonious whole. “A yang element is hard, lighter colored, or vertical. A yin element is soft, darker, or rounded. The contrast of these two attributes is at the heart of great garden design.” (continued on page 26)

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Design Basics — (continued from page 24)

Paths

“A circular shape can be a unifying connector for walks in a landscape, as I designed it here. The contrast of bricks and bluestone also adds interest. When you lay out a walk, think about a spot where you might want people to stop and enjoy a view.”

Seasonal Color

Like many designers, Johnsen touts the virtues of offering clients the option of adding spring flowering bulbs, annuals for summer and fall, and containers created with winter interest. Alliums and tulips grace this border in early May, to be followed by annuals. One of her favorite autumn combinations is Bergenia ‘Winter Glow’ with amsonia. “What a display that is in the fall,” she says. Offer clients the option of adding spring, summer, and fall color around their patios or in their containers.

Pollinator Plants & Theme Gardens

Johnsen loves gardens with a theme, such as moon gardens, that are filled with white, silver, and gray plants, meant to stand out at dusk. “I do moonlight gardens and love Hakuro Nishiki willow. Prune it every two weeks and it stays white.” Native plant gardens, butterfly gardens, rain gardens, and pollinator gardens are other popular theme plantings. “Everyone should be putting a pollinator garden in,” Johnsen said. “Many theme gardens are designed to benefit the environment — what better reason is there than this to offer your clients a theme garden?” (continued on page 28) 26

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Design Basics — (continued from page 26)

Sculpture

“Sometimes a garden needs a vertical punch to add some drama,” Johnsen said. “It’s an exclamation point that’s needed to jazz things up.” She created a vertical accent with two trellis posts that she painted fire engine red. “They add a dynamic spark in this outdoor sitting room.” That vertical accent need not be a sculpture. It could be a group of stones, or an obelisk, a tuteur, a tall pot or urn, or a columnar plant.

Advice for Landscapers

Johnsen also peppered her talk with cautions especially for those new to the industry. “There are many common mistakes — overpromising and setting unrealistic expectations or underselling. If you set too high expectations and don’t meet them, you fail. Set the bar lower and when it comes out beautiful, everyone’s happy.” This can encourage repeat business as the homeowner phases in additional projects. One of Johnsen’s biggest beefs is not paying attention to soil or maintenance when starting the project. “We’ve got it all backwards. Some [designers] pick out the plants with a lot of care, but once they’re in the ground, there’s no thought to the maintenance.” Explain the importance of soil-testing and ongoing maintenance to protect your client’s investment. Johnsen laments that, for many years, landscapers were undervalued. “That’s changing. People are starting to under-

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

stand how important it is — and it’s vital. We’re coming into an era where landscape construction is coming into its own. Before, it was about making the grounds look ‘pretty.’ Clients are becoming more sophisticated.” Those ideas can be reflected in your firm’s marketing and social media tools. Johnsen works with a home builder in New York and suggested that attendees hook up with local builders. “He realizes he can sell a home much faster with our landscape services.” Connect with local real estate offices as well to offer curb appeal landscaping services that can help update tired foundation plantings and get potential buyers in the door. “I loved her talk,” said Nate Bishop of Everetts Landscape Management in Grand Rapids, Michigan. “I’m focusing on urban landscape development and restaurants. A lot of the design that she talked about was really good.” See more of Johnsen’s work: https://johnsenlandscapes.com

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he Landscape Contractor June 2020

Winner of the Black & White Category:

Winner of the Water Category:

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Winner of the Wildlife Category: Tony Wasemann, Scott Bryon and Company

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

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Winner of the Flower Category: Tony Wasemann, Scott Bryon and Company

Winner of the Pet Category: Tony Wasemann, Scott Bryon and Company

Winner of the Seasonal Color Category: Landon Gibbs, Cantigny Park

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Runner-Up: Trees Category, Amanda Arnold, Planit Landscape Perspectives

Winner of the Night Category: Brian Latta, Studebaker Nurseries

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

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Grand Prize: Sunrise-Sunset Category, Brian Latta, Studebaker Nurseries

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The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Cuatro enfermedades fúngicas para la primavera Por Heather Prince

Con un invierno suave y una primavera fría,

las enfermedades fúngicas de las plantes aparecen en los terrenos ajardinados por todas partes. Al evaluar los espacios de los clientes, esté atento a estos cuatro problemas fúngicos para poder ser proactivo en el tratamiento. Los patógenos fúngicos se benefician del clima húmedo de la primavera y escogimos dos problemas relativamente nuevos y dos que con regularidad causan alarma en clientes todos los años. Consultamos con clínicas de plantas universitarias en Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan e Indiana para ofrecer una actualización regional sobre cuatro problemas que deben estar en su radar esta primavera. Aunque parece estar en las noticias cada año, solo algunos casos del tizón del boj ocurren en el Medio Oeste. No obstante, con la prevalencia del árbol de madera de boj en terrenos ajardinados, es buena idea poder reconocer este patógeno devastador debido a que el tratamiento inmediato es clave para desacelerar y detener su propagación. Se han reportado casos del tizón del boj en elementos verdes de árboles de madera de boj cortados y usados para decoraciones navideñas, por lo que hay posibilidades de introducción inadvertida del patógeno en terrenos ajardinados. Los árboles de madera de boj han sufrido algunas agresiones en los últimos años y podría ser buena idea buscar alternativas. El desafío es encontrar algo con la misma versatilidad y atractivo formal.

El tizón del boj (Calonectria pseudonaviculata) se presenta primero como manchas oscuras en las hojas que pudieran tener un ligero patrón anular que progresa hasta producir el tizón de las ramitas y la rápida defoliación. Busque puntos muertos en setos y plantas individuales e inspeccione las partes de las plantas. El 34

tizón del boj no es el único patógeno fúngico que puede causar el desecamiento descendente de las ramitas o parches muertos y es fácil clasificar como tizón del boj el daño invernal, la plaga de la volutella, las manchas en las hojas por macrofoma o podredumbre de la raíz por fitóftora (phytophthora). Los clientes también podrían catalogar todos los problemas del árbol de madera de boj como ‘tizón’. La gran diferencia es que el tizón del boj causa defoliación generalizada y la muerte rápida. Los otros patógenos listados hacen que el follaje adquiera un color café o bronceado, se adhieren a la planta y es mucho menos probable que causen la muerte de las plantas. Se pueden eliminar y controlar con facilidad. El tizón del boj se presenta primero como manchas oscuras redondeadas con halos amarillos en las hojas que pudieran tener esporas blancas en la parte de abajo a medida que la enfermedad progresa. La defoliación rápida comienza en la parte inferior y asciende hacia el dosel. Un síntoma clave que diferencia el tizón del boj de otras enfermedades del árbol de madera de boj es que se desarrollan cancros veteados delgados y negros en los tallos verdes. Durante períodos de mucha humedad, se desarrollan de estos cancros negros de los tallos masas vellosas de color blanco de numerosas esporas que se pueden observar con una lupa. Este patógeno no ataca las raíces, pero la defoliación repetida y secamiento causado por cancros en los tallos pueden matar las plantas jóvenes rápidamente. Si sospecha que hay presencia del tizón del boj, envíe muestras a la Clínica de Plantas de su estado para confirmación. Una vez que se haya detectado la enfermedad, la buena sanitación es esencial. Elimine y ponga en una bolsa las plantas enfermas y las hojas caídas y deséchelas o entiérrelas. Donde sea permitido, puede quemar las plantas infectadas. No convierta en abono plantas o escombros de plantas infectadas porque esto no mata el patógeno. Investigaciones han

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

encontrado que el hongo puede permanecer en el suelo durante cinco años o más, lo que significa que es probable que cualquier árbol de madera de boj de reemplazo plantado en el mismo sitio es posible que sea infectado. Hay fungicidas que son muy eficaces para proteger las plantas contra la infección del tizón del boj, pero no curan las plantas con la enfermedad. Se deben aplicar los fungicidas cuando la temperatura sobrepase los 60°F y se espere lluvia. Los productos eficaces incluyen una rotación de clorotalonil o fludioxonil. Usted deberá aplicar fungicidas en un período de entre siete y 14 días para proteger los árboles de madera de boj susceptibles. Los cultivadores están trabajando en el desarrollo de variedades de árboles de madera de boj resistentes, los cuales están comenzando a venderse en el mercado. Busque las series Little Missy y el NewGen™.

En 2019, se detectó la muerte repentina del roble (Phytophthora

ramorum) en Wisconsin en existencias de azalea en un vivero infectado. “Hubo una sola detección, pero había cantidades considerables de plantas azalea potencialmente contaminadas y arbustos de rosas rojas ‘Double Knockout’ que fueron introducidos en el estado y vendidos antes de que se descubriera el problema”, reportó Brian Hudelson de la Clínica de Diagnósticos de Enfermedades de Plantas en la Universidad de Wisconsin-Madison. Fue reportada primero en California y se ha encontrado posteriormente en otros estados de Estados Unidos, así como en Europa. Se puede encontrar en una amplia gama de plantas leñosas y herbáceas, pero es mortal en los robles. Los síntomas de la muerte repentina del roble varían considerablemente dependiendo de las especies de plantas infectadas, pero

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en los robles, busque manchas y erupciones color café oscuro con bordes vellosos, que comienzan a lo largo de los márgenes de las hojas. La parte engañosa es que estos síntomas de las hojas pueden parecerse a manchas y plagas más comunes o pueden asemejarse a quemaduras de sol o al abrasamiento de las hojas. Las ramitas y las ramas infectadas, con frecuencias se marchitan y forman un cayado de pastor en las puntas, desecándose posteriormente. Las infecciones en los troncos de los árboles generan cancros que producen grandes

cantidades de rezumado color ámbar o negro que puede secar y manchar la corteza. Quite la corteza sobre el área afectada y encontrará debajo madera descolorada que algunas veces, pero no siempre, tiene un borde negro. Con el tiempo, los cancros pueden expandirse hasta el tronco, causando la muerte del árbol o arbusto. Hasta ahora, las infecciones de los troncos no parecen extenderse al sistema radicular. Una vez que se desarrollan los cancros de la muerte repentina del roble, pueden introducirse otros patógenos, (continúa en la página 36)

35 The Landscape Contractor June 2020

(Viene de la página 35) acelerando la muerte del árbol o arbusto y complicando el diagnóstico. El marchitamiento y el secamiento rápidos de las puntas de las ramas pueden también ser síntoma de phytophthora ramorum. Phytophthora ramorum se puede propagar a través de largas distancias mediante el movimiento de plantas infectadas o partes de plantas infestadas. El patógeno también se puede desplazar a través de suelo contaminado o agua contaminada. Una vez establecidas en las plantas, las esporas fúngicas se pueden propagar por medio de salpicadura de lluvia o el viento. Actualmente no hay cura. Debido a que phytophthora ramorum es un patógeno de cuarentena regulado, solo extraiga una muestra para diagnóstico y no extraiga la planta. Envíe la muestra a la Clínica de Plantas de su estado en un recipiente sellado. Asegúrese de descontaminar todas las herramientas o materiales que hayan tenido contacto con la planta. Si es la muerte repentina del roble, la planta será destruida para prevenir que la infección se propague.

Las enfermedades de la antracnosis son uno de los

problemas más comunes de los árboles de sombra de hoja ancha en nuestra área. Este grupo de enfermedades fúngicas se vuelve grave cuando persiste el clima frío y húmedo de la primavera, cuando las hojas están emergiendo por primera vez. Los árboles más afectados son el fresno, el roble, el arce y el sicomoro, aunque se puede encontrar en el cornejo, el abedul, el olmo, el nogal, el nogal ceniciento, el nogal americano (pacana) y otros, dependiendo del año. Esta es una enfermedad específica de un huésped, por lo que no se transmite entre los árboles; cada especie de árbol tiene su propia especie de hongo. Los síntomas de las enfermedades de la antracnosis son manchas y erupciones irregulares en las hojas, con frecuencia cerca de las venas de la hoja, haciéndola rizarse y distorsionarse. Las hojas podrían morir y caer, causando alarma en el cliente. Los hongos que sobreviven en una hojarasca tendrán esporas acarreadas con las lluvias y los vientos primaverales, de manea que usualmente se encuentra daño en las ramas inferiores de un árbol. Si advierte hojas rizadas o torcidas en las puntas del dosel o en los bordes expuestos, podría ser más bien daño por la escarcha. En algunas especies de árboles, especialmente el sicomoro, el patógeno puede causar cancros en las ramas, haciendo que las ramitas se desequen o producir escobas de brujas distintivas. La buena noticia es que esta enfermedad no causa usualmente la muerte del árbol. Los árboles vigorosos que pierden sus primeras hojas usualmente expulsan otro conjunto, por lo que es importante vigilar la salud del árbol. No se 36

recomiendan los tratamientos con fungicida porque al momento en que usted advierte el daño, es demasiado tarde para aplicar el tratamiento y es frecuente en los árboles de sombra grandes, lo que hace difícil la cobertura con fungicida. No obstante, para árboles de alto valor de escala menor, se puede aplicar fungicida comenzando en la brotación el siguiente año. Los fungicidas listados para la antracnosis incluyen clorotalonil, mancozeb, propiconazole y fórmulas a base de cobre.

Enfermedad de la aguja de la rizosfera (Rhizosphaera

kalkhoffii) es una de las enfermedades fúngicas más comunes de la pícea de Colorado o pícea azul (Picea pungens). También se puede encontrar en otras píceas, pero la pícea azul parecer ser de las más afectadas, especialmente en árboles maduros. En los últimos años, el clima húmedo de la primavera ha acelerado esta enfermedad y la ha hecho aún más frecuente. Usted advertirá primero que las agujas más interiores en las ramas inferiores adquieren un tono café, mientras las puntas de las ramitas permanecen saludables. En las primeras etapas, las agujas afectadas podrían adquirir un color morado o lavanda antes de broncearse. Al ser examinadas con una lupa, hileras de esferas negras del tamaño de un grano de pimienta se extienden a lo largo de las agujas. Estos son los órganos de las plantas que producen esporas. Con el tiempo, las agujas infectadas caen al suelo. Las agujas caídas son un buen vector para nuevas infecciones debido a que las esporas saltan de nuevo hacia el árbol por la lluvia. Limpiar las agujas caídas ayudará a limitar la propagación. La rizosfera se puede tratar con fungicidas a base de cobre o clorotalonil, aunque ambos actuarán como preventivos de futuras infecciones, no como una cura. Aplique el fungicida cada tres o cuatro semanas comenzando cuando las nuevas agujas emergen en la primavera y continúe en el verano y en clima más seco. El tratamiento funciona mejor cuando se hace en árboles pequeños o de muestra debido a que la pícea grande y madura es difícil de cubrir eficazmente. Si usa píceas en su jardín, asegúrese de que tengan mucho movimiento de aire, buen drenaje y plena luz del sol para mantener la salud del árbol. Estas son solo algunas de las enfermedades de las plantas que se desarrollan en los terrenos ajardinados en la primavera. Los servicios de extensión de la universidad están aquí para ayudar así como el Arboreto Morton y el Jardín Botánico de Chicago. Prestando atención y explorando, usted no solo puede salvar plantas valiosas, sino también añadir otra partida presupuestaria a sus facturas.

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

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The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Doing Business in Challenging Times

The Most Serious Human Resources Mistakes Landscapers Make P

iLandscape

by Meta L. Levin

0 2 Landscape 0 The i llinois + wi2 sconsin C T Show

“Your employees can make or cost

you money,” says Steve Cesare, The Harvest Group’s expert in human resources and safety. Therefore, it is important to treat them like customers, because you all are a part of the same team. Ultimately, finding the right people is the purview of human resources (HR), but to be most effective, human resources must be aligned with what management does and wants to do, Cesare told his iLandscape audience. “It doesn’t matter who is in charge of human resources. If management makes strategic decisions and human resources is not aligned with it, then it won’t work,” says Cesare, who holds a PhD in industrial and organizational psychology. “Human resources doesn’t exist in a vacuum.” And, he notes, most landscape contractors do not have one person devoted to human resources. “Management,” says Cesare, “has a macro responsibility that trickles down to human resources.” And that begins with strategic planning. Cesare laments the fact that most landscape contractors have no 18-month plan and, therefore, no expectations of what things are going to look like next year. Without such a long-range plan, landscape contractors have no idea what needs they will have in personnel and skill sets. “People in our business tend to rely on intuition,” he says. They have no proactive staffing plan, no staffing team, and no employee referral program. There are three main human resources drivers: staffing, accountability, and training. All need to understand of where the business is headed. So he recommends sitting down in late fall — October or November — and putting together that 18-month plan. This will allow you to focus on your HR needs for the coming year. Do you need more people with certain skills? How

about training? So for instance, if your business plan includes increasing revenue derived from irrigation work by 20 percent, that might mean hiring two new employees skilled in irrigation operations, which would involve human resources. Whoever oversees HR ideally would understand or learn what types of skills are needed, as well as the compensation levels. How are you going to recruit those people? Do your current employees know people in the business with the right skills? What would incentivize them to recommend those potential employees to you? That is one good reason your employees need to understand where the business is going and why, says Cesare. That can be done via a team meeting or just posting important points in an area where employees can see them. “It is important to have ongoing communication,” says Cesare. “Communication should be a part of your business plan, just like human resources, purchasing, and sales.” Once you have a business plan in place for the coming year, you also need to have a conversation with whoever oversees HR about identifying the key employees you want to retain. HR should know what motivates them, how to best communicate with them, and what it would take to retain them. The plan and resulting conversation should include recruiting, retention, and replacing poorly performing employees. “Focus on retention, recruitment, replacing those who you do not want to keep,” says Cesare. Even if you do align your decisions and human resources, if you or whoever takes care of HR doesn’t understand the state, federal and local laws that affect that part of your business, you are in danger of making costly mistakes, the kind that could land you in court. (continued on page 40)

“People in our

business tend

to rely

on intuition.”

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Doing Business in Challenging Times (continued from page 38) “Business owners can be overwhelmed by all of the laws,” Cesare says. These laws can affect everything from jury duty, pregnancy, and blood donation, to vacation and sick leave and bereavement — not to mention inappropriate jokes or behavior. If you or whoever handles HR for you do not keep on top of them, important issues can fall through the cracks. The myriad of laws affecting HR is one of the reasons it is important to have someone in your organization who is devoted to HR. Learning all of these can distract you from running your business, and most businesses do not have a devoted HR manager. The critical value of sufficient follow-up was the third major lesson Cesare hoped to teach attendees at his presentation. “HR is so dynamic that you have to do it all the time,” he says. “Follow up is critical. You have to be vigilant.” That feeds into the necessity of aligning HR with any updates of business plans and situations, as well as the obligation to keep up with the latest federal, state, and local legislation, as well as any

issues that may be going on among your employees. There is the issue of employees charging they are the victims of retaliation for one or another action by a supervisor or even a fellow employee. “For

“Business owners can be overwhelmed by all of the laws.” the last seven years, that has been the most prevalent problem I hear about,” says Cesare. “Anything can be viewed as retaliation. Retaliation is the numberone discrimination claim.” Most employ-

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ers or supervisors do not even know that what they have done is illegal, and they do not even realize they are doing it. To minimize the risk of these incidents and you landing in court, it is important to properly train and continually update your managers, HR and administrative personnel. Have regular HR audits to ensure that what is done in your name is legal, fair, and current. Cesare recommends investing in EPLI (employment practices liability insurance) that gives you adequate and proper coverage. Make certain that any investigation is prompt, thorough, transparent, and factual. Ensure you review all discipline cases so that there are no adverse actions. Communication with your employees includes the necessity of an easily readable, clearly written and succinct employee handbook that covers the main HR points employees need to know in order to be a functioning part of your business. This should include an explanation of the grievance process. Cesare provided a list of key policies he believes should be a part of any employee handbook, including: • (continued on page 42)

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The Landscape Contractor June 2020

ILCA Member Renewals for 2020-2021 Renew by June 30, 2020! Please be on the lookout for your dues renewal notice email. In an effort to streamline the renewal process, we will not be sending paper notices this year. Renewal emails are sent to the main contact on the account. If you do not know your login credentials, please call the office at 630-472-2851.

Payment Options: Automatic Renewal – By providing your credit card information, your membership dues will be automatically deducted from your account every year on June 30th. Pay Online – One-time credit card payment on the date you enter the information. You will need to go in every year and enter your credit card information to renew. Pay by Check – If you cannot renew by credit card, you can mail a check to: ILCA 2625 Butterfield Road, Suite 104S, Oak Brook, IL 60523.

We look forward to your continued support of the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association!

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Doing Business in Challenging Times • (continued from page 40) •

At-will

•

EEO (equal employment opportunity)

•

Desk and locker inspection

•

Immigration

•

Safety

•

Pregnancy

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Harassment

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Workplace violence

•

Leave of absence

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Exempt employees pay deductions

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Interactive process

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Meal/rest periods

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Benefits disclaimer

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Employment contract disclaimer

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Grievance process

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Retaliation

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Social media

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Vacation/PTO

•

Drug testing

Cesare recommends you have your employee handbook reviewed by a qualified HR professional and that it be revised annually. Give it to all full- or part-time employees, but not to independent contractors or temp workers. Once you have a good handbook, your practices are in writing and, should be compliant with the NLRA’s (National Labor Relations Act) rules. In addition to laying out the rules and regulations, Cesare underscores the need for performance management. This is, more than just performance reviews or discipline. “Most companies do not do it,” he says. If you do not like to do it, Cesare recommends limiting a formal performance review to once a year with follow-ups on a month-to-month basis. These can be just feedback sessions. It means discipline, as well as recognition and rewards. Get some coaching yourself on how to coach your employees, how to give good feedback. If, you need to discipline your employee, do it in private, but praise or positive feedback should be done publicly.

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The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Document the performance reviews and make sure they are done one-on-one. Make certain that you have written job descriptions. “Eighty percent of the companies I work with do not have job descriptions and 90 percent don’t have good job descriptions,” he says. So Cesare recommends, ensure you have a clear job description for every position. The bottom line is this, says Cesare: •

Be current on all human resources laws

•

Get EPLI

•

Have strong HR guidance

•

Provide annual training

•

Have written procedures

•

Conduct routine HR audits

•

Have accurate job descriptions.

•

And seek help about any and all of these HR practices when you need it.

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Doing Business in Challenging Times

Social Media: Conne Nina A. Koziol

Love it or hate it, social media is a tool your

company needs. But what should your firm use and why? What’s the best way to engage current and potential clients and is there one best way to do that? Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines social media as “forms of electronic communication (such as websites for social networking and microblogging) through which users create online communities to share information, ideas, personal messages, and other content (such as videos).” But at this year’s iLandscape, Kathy Jentz summed it up like this: “Social media is a time suck. It can suck up all the time you give it.” Jentz is editor and publisher of Washington DC Gardener magazine and she spoke to an overflow crowd. “However, one of the best things about using social media is that it’s free marketing,” Jentz said. “Currently, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter don’t charge you.” And who can argue with free?

Then and Now

When television arrived on the scene, many saw it as the demise of radio. Didn’t happen. When the Internet was born, others said it would be the end of books and just about everything else in print. Didn’t happen. Likewise, social media platforms are just another tool for promoting your business. It’s been nearly two decades since the first blogs appeared. YouTube launched in 2005 and the following year, Facebook and Twitter were worldwide attractions. Other sites like Tumblr, Spotify, Foursquare, and Pinterest entered the arena, and today, there’s a wide variety of social networking sites, including Houzz, SnapChat, Reddit, WhatsApp, LinkedIn, and others. Posting on social media could be a full-time job or something you’d contract to a marketing firm, but that’s costly for many small businesses and may not be necessary. “There’s a big universe out there,” Jentz told the audience. “Do you need to be on all those platforms? No. What you need to do is develop deep roots on a few of them. I love Twitter— that’s where I live. I’m on Twitter the most.” Your firm may simply need two or three platforms, like Facebook, Houzz, or Instagram, where you can feature

your work and attract new clients. “When I post every day on Instagram, I connect the post to Tumblr, Facebook and Twitter. That way, I’ve created four posts from one,” Jentz said. Social media lets you “cut through the clutter,” Jentz explained. “The old saying is it takes seven impressions before something sinks into somebody’s brain. That’s why Coke spends tons of money on their brand. They want to keep it top of mind. Repeating yourself on social media is not a bad thing. Your clients might have missed the first post, andsome repetition will help.” Social media engagement — think of it as marketing — is not really free. “It’s not free as in your time,” Jentz said. “But, that’s probably your biggest expense: time. Compared to marketing costs of the old days, it’s so much cheaper and easier.” And, it’s incredibly fast. “It used to be six degrees of separation but now it’s one degree. Let’s say you have a stone company and have a huge amount of excess stone. You can post it immediately. In the old days, you’d do it in print [ads]. Now it’s almost instantaneous.” A good example is the ILCA Facebook page, which has featured daily video updates to help members deal with the impact of COVID-19 on their businesses. Social media has been crucial for nonprofits like the Chicago Botanic Garden, the Morton Arboretum, and Farnsworth House, as well as garden centers, temporarily shuttered due to the virus. “We have 10,000 followers each on Facebook and Instagram, but Facebook definitely skews older and towards people who read,” said Landscape Architect Scott Mehaffey, executive director at the historic Farnsworth House in Plano, Illinois. “We also repost to Twitter, but that’s mostly for the media.”

You’re the Expert

“Using social media allows you to establish expert status and branding,” Jentz said. So, how much time should you devote to posting on Facebook or Instagram or Twitter? “That’s the $24,000 question. What I do — and I don’t expect everyone else to do this — is an hour in the morning and an

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

cting with Clients

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Doing Business in Challenging Times hour in the evening. I own a garden magazine and I’m a communicator. But 20 minutes in the morning and again in the evening is a good aim for landscapers.” One-third of the landscape architects in the audience said they used social media. So, let’s say you (or a team member) post a project photo and an engaging caption in the morning and another one in the evening. Jentz recommends checking for client comments twice a day and responding to those comments.

has won Best of Houzz awards annually since 2012. His website gingkoleafstudio.net features those awards as well as the icons for Facebook, Houzz, and LinkedIn. The old adage, “a picture is worth 1000 words” rings true — if it’s a good photograph. “I’m very particular about photos,” Drzewiecki said, “and I pay for a professional photographer to shoot our projects. We’ve been the number one profile a few times under landscape design.”

Hashtag Heaven

Promoting Your Social Sites

A hashtag is simply a keyword phrase, spelled without spaces with a pound sign (#) in front of it, for example, #iLandscape2020, #makingconections. Hashtags can be used anywhere in your social media posts: in the beginning, at the end, or anywhere in between. Hashtags turn topics and phrases into clickable links in your posts. This helps clients find posts about topics of interest. To make a hashtag, write # along with a topic or phrase and add it to your post. Experiment.

Houzz about that?

Houzz (www.houzz.com) is a hub for interior designers, remodelers, contractors—including landscape firms— dealers, and homeowners. It’s an online community, directory and marketplace for all things in home design—inside and out. Launched in 2008, it is incredibly popular and boasts more than 40 million monthly unique users and 2.3 million active home-renovation and design pros that use the site. “We’ve had so much more success with clients finding us through Houzz,” says landscape designer James Drzewieckiof Ginkgo Leaf Studio in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. “I was an early adopter of Houzz [after] I saw a Facebook conversation between two interior designers. I know I was skeptical because it was free.” Drzewiecki began posting on Houzz in 2010 and

Whenever and wherever you post on social media, it should be connected to your firm’s website. “Everything should link back. Direct folks back to your blog or your website, your videos,” Jentz explained. When you send emails or e-newsletters to your client list, include links to your social media sites. You can also put short teaser text on Facebook to direct clients back to your website. For example, if you’ve installed a pollinator garden, post a photo on Facebook with a link back to the project photos on your website. “If I have an upcoming event, I’ll start promoting it a week out,” Jentz said. “Then, I’ll do it five days out, three days out, the day before,, and the day of the event.” She has a year-round marketing schedule and has reminders on her phone. “One of the biggest sins is that you set up an account and your last post was 18 months ago. Take down the account, rather than have it be inactive,” she said. “If you’re not going to keep it up, it’s better to take it down. That’s the first thing a client’s going to see.” If your firm does any communitybased outreach (your team donates time to work on a park, school, or restoration, etc.) tout it in your social media posts. Let your clients — past, present and future — know about those good deeds.

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

“Sometimes it’s hard to find people who might be our clients,” Jentz said. She explained that Twitter skews to a younger audience. “Instagram is growing; Facebook is probably the best venue

for projects as is Pinterest and Houzz. If you’re looking for new clients—ask past clients—are you on Facebook or Twitter? Let’s connect.”

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

New Members — Contractors All-Star Landscaping Chad Meado 1909 Spinnaker St Pingree Grove, IL 60140 Email: allstarlandscapedesign@yahoo.com Phone: (224) 400-7645 Armas Maintenance Jose G Armas 2853 E 96th ST Chicago, IL 60617 Email: armasj51@yahoo.com Phone: (773) 302-2595 Autumn Ridge Land And Site Design LLC Robert Brooks 2846 West Ainslie St. Chicago, IL 60625 Email: rjb@autumnridgedesign.com Phone: (773) 457-5483 www.autumnridgedesign.com Beckers Lawn Care And Landscaping, LLC Matt Becker 1810 W. Meadowlark Dr. Pontiac, IL 61764 Email: beckerslawncareandlandscaping@gmail.com Phone: (309) 830-3239 beckerslawncareandlandscaping.com

Creative Landscapes, LTD Josh Martie 5515 Old Collinsville Rd. Fairview Heights, IL 62208 Email: joshm@stlcreativelandscapes.com Phone: (618) 632-9338 www.STLCreativeLandscapes.com

Landstone Innovations Inc. Arturo Lopez 19708 W IL Route 120 Grayslake, IL 60030 Email: landstoneinnovationsinc@gmail. com Phone: (224) 634-8660

Cuttin Edge Lawn To Landscaping Brittany Becker 3540 Country Club Lane Morris, IL 60450 Email: blake.becker@cuttinedgelandscaping.com Phone: (815) 228-1207 www.cuttinedgelandscaping.com

Lawn Doctor Of Antioch, Gurnee & Lake Villa, Inc. Chris & Julie Shkyria PO Box 918 Antioch, IL 60002 Email: group593@lawndoctor.com Phone: (847) 395-0940 www.lawndoctor.com

Green Drop Lawns Brad Hamilton #23 1701 Quincy Ave Naperville, IL 60540 Email: hamilton@greendrop.com Phone: (877) 877-0706 www.greendrop.com

Lawn Doctor Of Buffalo Grove-Lake Zurich Sallie Winfrey PO Box 5918 Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 Email: group553@lawndoctor.com Phone: (847) 844-1332 www.lawndoctor.com

JPG Gardens Samantha Goss 818 South Grant Street Hinsdale, IL 60521 Email: samantha@jpggardens.com Phone: (630) 850-7132 www.jpggardens.com

Marc’s Lawn Service, LLC Marc Doty 502 N. Main St, Suite 2 Sycamore, IL 60178 Email: info@marcslawnservice.com Phone: (815) 739-7818 www.marcslawnservice.com

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New Members — North Aurora Landscaping Inc. Mark Gaffino 2881 McDuffee Circle North Aurora, IL 60542 Email: mgaffer4@comcast.net Phone: (630) 907-9200 www.northauroralandscaping.com Northstar Lawn And Grounds Maintenance David Herzog 229 Woodstock Avenue Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 Email: northstar.herzog@gmail.com Phone: (630) 456-0953 Pacocha Landscaping Services, Inc. Joseph Pacocha 1027 S. Walnut Ave. Arlington Heights, IL 60005 Email: info@landscapeandsnow.com Phone: (847) 699-0116 www.landscapeandsnow.com

Quigley’s Lawn & Snow, Inc.Q Robert L Quigley 925 Criss Circle Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 Email: rlquig@sbcglobal.net Phone: (847) 690-9981 R. Montoya, Inc. Roberto Montoya 4403 N. Keokuk Ave. Chicago, IL 60630 Email: rmontoya1977@gmail.com Phone: (773) 777-0729 rmontoyalandscaping.com R.A.M. Lawn&Patio Rudy A. Magdaleno 3430 N. Keeler Ave Chicago, IL 60641 Email: magdaleno.rm@gmail.com Phone: (847) 834-1954

Red Fern Landscape Management Delia Marrufo 3329 N. Leavitt st, Chicago, IL 60618 Email: delia@redfernlm.com Phone: (630) 362-3482 www.redfernlandscapemanagement.com Rockford Landscape Engineering LLC Michael Carlson 5610 Pike Road Loves Park, IL 61111 Email: rockfordlandscape@hotmail.com Phone: (815) 654-4777 Serenity Landscape Group Gary Berkshire PO Box 6996 Villa Park, IL Email: nicole@serenitylandscapegroup. com Phone: (630) 359-5139

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The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Square Root Garden Design Jason Galles 1626 N. Winchester Chicago, IL 60622 Email: jason@squarerootchicago.com Phone: (773) 322-6246 www.squarerootchicago.com

Timp Landscaping, Inc. Christopher Timp 4492 N Elizabeth Scales Mound Rd Scales Mound, IL 61075 Email: timplandscaping@yahoo.com Phone: (815) 777-8907 timplandscaping.com

T And T Landscape Construction Tim Terlecki 847 South Randall Rd Ste 334 South Elgin, IL 60177 Email: tntlandscapeconstructioninc@ yahoo.com Phone: (630) 549-9183

Turfgator LLC Chris Schneider P.O. Box 27 Lebanon, IL 62254 Email: chrisschneider@turfgator.com Phone: Turfgator.com

T.T.C. Landscaping, Inc. Kim Locke 3414 Eastway Drive Island Lake, IL 60042 Email: ttclandscaping@comcast.net Phone: (847) 526-1269 ttclandscapinginc.com

Valley Vision Landscape Jesse Gonzalez 66 W Strong St Wheeling, IL 60090 Email: jesseg@valleyvisionlandscapes. com Phone: (847) 401-8156 www.valleyvisionlandscapes.com

The Landscape Contracto June 2020

New Members — Westbrook & Sons Lawn Care, Inc Ryne Westbrook 616 Main St Batavia, IL 60510 Email: westbrooklawns@gmail.com Phone: (630) 940-4619 westbrookandsonslawncare.com X-Pert Landscaping Inc. Keith T Cichy 105 S. Bobby Lane Mount Prospect, IL 60056 Email: keith.cichy@sbcglobal.net Phone: (847) 818-0621 x-pertlandscaping.com Individual/Freelance Designer Gardenscapes Betty Phillips 1035 Forest Ave. Wilmette, IL 60091 Email: bettybphillips@gmail.com Phone: (847) 477-5378

Semmer Landscape LLC Rafael Alvarez 1000 W. 94th Street Chicago, IL 60620 Email: ralvarez@semmerlandscape.com Phone: (708) 972-5211 www.semmerlandscape.com Wirtz Landscapes Marty Wirtz 10400 S. Hoyne Ave Chicago, IL 60643 Email: marty@wirtzlandscapes.com Phone: (773) 330-7000 Out Of State Beautiful Blooms Loriena Harrington W185N7493 narrow lane Menomonee Falls, WI 53051 Email: loriena@beautifulbloomslandscape.com Phone: (414) 431-1757 Www.Beautifulbloomslandscape.Com

Trident Industries LP Kyle Valway 10025 Office Center Ave Sappington, MO 63128 Email: kyle.valway@tridentpowersolutions.com Phone: (314) 882-5760 tridentpowersolutions.com Landscape Architecture/Design Firm Accent Urban Design Jose L Magan 1655 Evergreen Rd Homewood, IL 60430 Email: jmagan@accenturbandesign.com Phone: (708) 647-1684 accenturbandesign.com Suppliers Contree Sprayer And Equipment David Vonbehren W9898 Jackson Rd Beaver Dam, WI 53916 Email: davev@contree.com Phone: (920) 356-0121 www.contree.com Greener Gardens Sod Farm Matthew Andrew Rafacz PO Box 472 Frankfort, KY 40601 Email: rafacz316@yahoo.com Phone: (815) 469-9421 www.greenersod.com Olympus Salt, Inc. Brian Glasgow 1600 E. 122nd Street Chicago, IL 60633 Email: emailb.glasgow@yahoo.com Phone: (708) 945-6831 www.olympussalt.com JT Landscaping And Concrete Inc. Jorge Torres 1515 Belleview Ave Rockdale, IL 60436 Email: jtlcinc@gmail.com Phone: (815) 671-9097

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Doing Business in Challenging Times

Show Anxious Employees That You Care Deb Boelkes

As the pandemic churns on,

your employees may be getting somewhat settled into their strange new routines. But don't be fooled: Even as they get acclimated with Zoom meetings or working in masks, their anxiety hasn't gone away. If anything, it's just gone underground. It's up to you as the leader to remind them just how much you care, even as you engage, inspire, and challenge them. Heartfelt leadership is needed more than ever in times of great fear. And the good news is that striving to be this kind of leader is nothing new. Best-ever bosses have always sought to WOW employees by showing them authentic love. Of course, love is only part of the story. Leadership actions that create Best Places to Work include things like sharing pride in your mission, products, and services; empowering workers to feel they have a career instead of a job; challenging them; teaching skills that help them succeed; and helping them feel happy, fulfilled, and successful in their lives by fostering friendship, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging. Employees still need all of these things. The pandemic hasn't changed that. And the good news is, none of them are mutually exclusive. In fact, all the things you do to create a WOW culture automatically show employees you care.

Build trust by keeping team members informed.

Whatever it takes, find ways to inform team members about what is going on, what's expected of them, and what they can expect of you. This builds trust.

Pick up the phone, make a call, or send emails or an occasional text to keep team members updated in real time. Be transparent. Share what you know. The more they know about what's going on, the more connected, comfortable, and assured they will feel. Tell your team members you want to be kept informed by them. Eagerly encourage them to contact you, at their convenience rather than yours, to ask questions, express their feedback about what's working or not working, and share their concerns. Let them know your 'virtual door' is always open.

Pay attention to those who don't do well working alone.

Some people feel isolated, depressed, and unproductive when working alone. These are the team members at greatest risk of becoming disengaged. If you have the chance to do so—and if your situation allows—encourage these people to volunteer to be part of small groups that rotate into the office or warehouse every few days. It will give them something to look forward to, help them stay productive, and bolster their sense of self-worth, well-being, and belonging.

Be especially considerate and forgiving of those with family issues.

Some people may find it difficult to work from home even under normal circumstances. But now, with most schools and daycare centers being closed, working from home can be especially challenging for those who must now also perform duties they usually pay others to perform. Be mindful that some workers The Landscape Contractor June 2020

may struggle with weaving their business responsibilities around additional responsibilities of homeschooling and childcare. Single parents may be particularly overwhelmed by managing both work and family duties, especially if they have infants or toddlers and no one else to rely on for assistance. You as the leader might even be struggling with these things yourself. Offer team members the option to change their work schedules to best coordinate the sharing of responsibilities for homeschooling, fit in nap times when infants are napping, and so forth.

Offer creative options to ease their burden at home.

Anticipate that for most everyone, regardless of whether they must now work from home or are still on the job in the workplace with added workload, work-life balance will be a greater challenge than usual. Offer the option for team members to select from a list of home-delivery services, to be funded by the organization, to help reduce the stress and ease the burden in unique ways. Home-delivery service options might include a month of laundry service; a "meal-in-a-box" dinner service (such as Blue Apron, HelloFresh, Sun Basket, etc.); provide a replacement for regularly subsidized school and/or workplace lunches by having lunch delivered daily (such as pizza, salad, soup, and/or sandwich); a short-term subscription to online yoga classes...and send the gift of a yoga mat via an online or local retailer. 53

Doing Business in Challenging Times Understand what makes employees tick and why they work there.

Don't underestimate the importance of having regular performance reviews and professional development one-on-ones, especially during times like these, even if such meetings must be held online. Just because jobs are no longer as plentiful as they were just a short time ago, never assume your best team members won't jump ship. Ask them, "What keeps you at our company?" If you haven't done it in a while, ask about their career goals. Make sure they know they have your support in working toward achieving their dreams and desires. Determine how, in the current situation, they can best align their unique strengths, evolving professional objectives, and personal needs to best support the organization's new objectives.

Foster networking between team members.

Help every member of the team and beyond to build and maintain meaningful relationships while working apart. Create online task forces, as needed, to solve new problems that may now come up. Ask for volunteers from different departments, from key customer accounts, and/ or from suppliers to keep ideas flowing and everyone engaged (both in and outside the company) and working together to achieve common goals.

Schedule plenty of "fun" breaks.

Encourage team members to periodically get away from the computer, especially if working from home. Suggest they take advantage of scheduled break times to do things they normally may not be able to do when working from the office, such as spend time with the kids or their

life partner, take a walk or bike ride for a change of scene, or just take a nap. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to work from home. Further, help keep team members connected through online all-hands team chats at the beginning of each week or each morning. Consider hosting an online "happy hour" once or twice a week, or an online coffee break at some point during the day to let team members share ideas and catch up informally. Encourage team members to display their special talents, such as singing or playing a musical instrument, during an online team meeting. Have fun and enjoy the chance to build a new sense of belonging and family in entirely new ways. Allow for more flexible scheduling. If this is your industry's busy season,

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The Landscape Contractor June 2020

allow team members to take comp time at their preferred times. Rather than mandate work schedules, allow team members to work out their own work schedules with each other, if possible. Likewise, if possible, give team members the option to work non-traditional shifts, perhaps three or four days per week, or a different number of days or hours on/off shift to best coordinate with their life partner's schedule, child rearing demands, etc.

Do what it takes to make team members feel appreciated.

People will do anything for leaders who praise their efforts and are appreciative, especially in times of struggle. Be especially forthcoming with good news and praises for jobs well done. Job satisfaction surveys prove again and again that simply appreciating

someone's work can be more important than any other factor in employee engagement. The recipients of your appreciation will most likely be inspired to put forth an even greater effort to ensure they will be thanked again. That's why the military gives ribbons and awards to soldiers. It keeps their hearts and minds in the battle, especially when the going gets tough." Your team needs all the support you can muster right now," concludes Boelkes. "Everyone is doing their best to adapt to the situation and keep business moving, but we still have a long way to go before things return to normal. If you lead with all the generosity and love that's in your heart, you will empower everyone to show up each day ready to be their best.

Wilson Nurseries & Landscape Supply Excellent quality, locally grown trees, shrubs, perennials & evergreens plus a full line of hardgoods. 4 convenient locations serving the Chicagoland area.

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The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Diseases & Pests —

Disease of the Month: Fire Blight Pest of the Month: Bagworm

by Heather Prince

Pest of the Month: Bagworm

Beginning in late June, bagworms begin hatching and crawl up to the top of the tree. There they spin out silk that catches in the wind, called ballooning, and carry themselves to new hosts. Bagworms feed from the top of the tree down and prefer arborvitae, juniper, and spruce, but are occasionally found on deciduous trees. Young caterpillars feed on the internal parts of needles. Damaged foliage is lighter green, Fire blight becoming whitish to brownish as the exposed cells die. As the bagworms mature, they may strip twigs. The caterpillar adds silk and bits of host foliage to the top of its cocoon until its spindle-shaped bag reaches about one and onehalf inches long. Once it has pupated or died, the top of the bags turn from green to brown. When scouting, be aware that pupated bagworms are not susceptible to insecticide, and killed bagworms do not fall from the tree. Bagworms feed until pupating in late summer Bagworm between mid-August to early September. Adult male bagworms are black moths with clear wings. Adult female bagworms appear similar to caterpillars. The males fly from bag to bag, mating with the females inside. The females fill most of their bodies with eggs and die in the bag.

Treatment:

Because bagworm eggs overwinter in the old bags, handpick the bags from September through May and destroy. The eggs in bags dropped to the ground will hatch. Handpicking active larval bags is also effective. Scout for early damage at the top of host trees beginning in mid-June to early July. Wait until ballooning ends, and one insecticide application will be effective. Sprays of Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki and spinosad are effective organic options. Other effective insecticides include cyfluthrin and permethrin.young. Apply to foliage as larvae must consume the Bt treatment for it to work. Somewhat resistant varieties of bentgrasses, Kentucky bluegrass, and ryegrasses are available, so make sure to check when restoring an area.

University of Illinois Extension Service https://web.extension.illinois.edu/state/ horticulture/index.php 217-333-0519

Disease of the Month: Fire Blight

Fire blight (Erwinia amylovora) is a bacterial disease that infects the Rosaceae family. Apples, pears, crabapples, and ornamental pears are the most seriously affected, but other hosts include cotoneaster, hawthorn, and quince. Affected trees have wilted new growth at the branch tip that quickly turns brown to black and remains attached to the stem. Tips of blighted shoots may resemble shepherd’s crooks. Symptoms can look like frost damage, so also check for cankers on stems and branches. The pathogen overwinters in live tissue at the edges of the previous year’s cankers. Spring rain or insects may move the bacterium from cankers to open blossoms, vigorous shoot tips, and leaves. Fire blight outbreaks sometimes occur following severe storms, as gusty winds and hail wound trees leaving them open to infection. The bulk of the infections occur during flowering when temperatures are above 76° and conditions are wet, which also encourages rapid disease development.

Treatment:

The best practice is to plant disease-resistant trees. Pruning is the most effective method of control, although you may combine it with spray applications. For existing trees, prune out infected wood when dormant, if possible. If not, prune in an extended dry period and disinfect pruning tools after every cut. Twigs should be removed 8 to 10 inches below the visible canker. Commercial growers will apply copper products in the dormant season and streptomycin at 4- to 5-day intervals throughout bloom. Do not fertilize or water as it encourages lush growth that is more susceptible to the disease.

Additional resources:

The Morton Arboretum http://www.mortonarb.org/Plant Clinic: http://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/ tree-and-plant-advice/ 630-719-2424 The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Chicago Botanic Garden Plant Information Service: https://www.chicagobotanic.org/ plantinfoservice 847-835-0972

Classified Ads HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Landscape Estimator

Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience and demonstrated success in landscape construction industry. Strong customer service orientation, decisive, organized, detail oriented, and willing to work in a team environment.

Field Supervisor – Ecological Restoration

Allied Landscaping Corp., is seeking a Landscape Estimator to be part of a great teamwork environment. Responsibilities: • Reading plans and specifications to determine scope of work • Perform accurate material, equipment and labor take-offs • Solicit sub & supplier pricing and estimate volume of work • Prepare timely estimates and meet bid deadlines • Review contract documents upon award • Communications with clients, project architects, subcontractors, etc. • Project billing and cost evaluation Qualifications: • Experience in estimating Commercial landscape work is preferred • Excellent communications, computer and math skills • Independent problem solver • A team player with integrity and a strong desire to win bids. Salary based on experience and qualifications. Please send resumes to: accounting@alliedlandscaping.com Residential Construction Superintendent Wingren Landscape Downers Grove, IL Wingren Landscape is considered one of the area’s top landscape architectural and design firms. Our goal is to create a unified and stimulating environment where your talents and motivation are rewarded. Wingren Landscape is not just a place to work; it is a place to be creative and successful while at work. Wingren Landscape, Inc. is an award winning full-service landscape company for both residential and commercial properties seeking an experienced candidate for the following full time position: Residential Superintendent Full Time Construction Department This person will be responsible for field managing all phases of residential design projects of varying types and sizes. - Demonstrated experience managing high end residential jobs and multiple crews - Extensive hardscape construction experience - Plant identification and layout Bilingual a plus

Wingren offers competitive compensation and benefit packages. All interested candidates please send resume to General Manager: megly@wingrenlandscape.com Ecological Restoration Field Technician/ Laborer Cardno is seeking an Ecological Restoration Field Technician/ Laborer. Projects will involve field labor, technical work, and/or supervision of field crews. A typical work day consists of 8-10 hours of in-the-field physical labor. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: • Implementing restoration project work at the ground level under the direction of a Field Supervisor and/or Project Manager • Native planting, seeding, erosion control installation, herbicide application, prescribed fire or any other activities necessary with field implementation of ecological restoration projects • Accurate documentation of daily field activities and organization of materials • Compliance with all company and client safety requirements • Ability to traverse wet and/or rugged terrain in diverse, sometimes inclement, weather conditions while carrying up to 50 lbs. • Experience in native and invasive species plant identification • Experience operating basic hand tools and smaller equipment such as backpack sprayers, augers, chainsaws, and/or brushcutters • Technicians will be required to obtain Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s Certifications in Categories A, F, and J • Valid Driver’s License with the ability to drive a company vehicle and an acceptable motor vehicle record • Must be authorized to work in U.S. without company sponsorship To apply: https://cardno.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/Cardno_Careers/job/ Chicago-IL/Ecological-Field-Technician_ REQ-2038

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Cardno is seeking an Ecological Restoration Field Crew Leader. Projects will involve field labor, technical work, and/or supervision of field crews. A typical work day consists of 8‐10 hours of in‐the‐field physical labor. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: • Implementing restoration project work at the ground level under the direction of a Field Supervisor and/or Project Manager • Native planting, seeding, erosion control installation, herbicide application, prescribed fire or any other activities necessary with field implementation of ecological restoration projects • Accurate documentation of daily field activities and organization of materials • Compliance with all company and client safety requirements • Ability to traverse wet and/or rugged terrain in diverse, sometimes inclement, weather conditions while carrying up to 50 lbs. • Experience in native and invasive species plant identification • Experience operating basic hand tools and smaller equipment such as backpack sprayers, augers, chainsaws, and/or brushcutters • Technicians will be required to obtain Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s Certifications in Categories A, F, and J • Valid Driver’s License with the ability to drive a company vehicle and an acceptable motor vehicle record • Must be authorized to work in U.S. without company sponsorship Desired Qualifications: • Experience operating large equipment such as ATVs/UTVs, tractors, chippers, and/or skid steers • Experience with herbicide handling, application, and application equipment • Knowledge and/or experience in ecological restoration techniques • Experience in map reading, GIS, and/or operating a GPS • Standard First Aid, CPR, and/or Red Card • Bilingual (Spanish) is a plus To Apply: https://cardno.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/Cardno_Careers/job/ Chicago-IL/Field-Supervisor_REQ-2050

Classified Ads HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Client Relationship Manager— Northwest Suburbs

Landscape Construction Division Manager

Qualifications: • Applicant must have extensive knowledge of site analysis, landscape construction methods, estimating, construction management, and construction details. • Must be very well-organized and detail-oriented; able to multi-task and make quick and decisive decisions • Responsible self-starter with ability to manage schedules and work efficiently • Able to comprehend project documents and plans to envision the process and challenges involved • Have strong sense of ownership to each job, and be resourceful in order to mobilize staff, equipment and materials to each job. • BLA or related degree with 3-5 years minimum experience in construction or landscape construction related industry, with a record of accomplishments and growth • Proficiency in MS Office, Excel, and Project, and preferably have knowledge of Auto Cad and SketchUp • Must have a driver’s license with a good driving record and vehicle

Greenwise is Chicagoland’s premier organic and sustainable landscape company. We are seeking a candidate to both develop our Northwest Suburb territory and provide excellent customer care to our existing clients. If you’re looking for a long-term sales role with a company that offers a competitive salary and full benefits package, please email your resume and a brief cover letter. RESPONSIBILITIES • Cultivating existing client relationships • Attending consultations with new or prospective clients • Generating maintenance and design proposals • Enhancement sales • Account management and client communications during snow events • Proactive client care action, follow-up and site visits • Daily communication with Operations for scheduling updates and service timelines • Ensuring clients are aware of scheduling updates and service dates PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS • Prior experience in the landscaping services industry • Ability to leverage and adapt to new technologies • Driver’s license, personal vehicle and auto insurance • Excellent time management skills • Drive and motivation to go above and beyond for clients • Skills in Microsoft Excel and Word Email resume to info@iamgreenwise.com Branch Manager / Inside Sales Representative Branch Manager / Inside Sales Representative - Joliet, IL Carlin Horticultural Supplies We are essential and hiring! Carlin is committed to the safety of our employees and customers during the Covid-19 crisis. We have an immediate opening for an enthusiastic Branch Manager / Inside Sales Representative at our Joliet, IL location. Please visit the link to our website below for more information: https://www.carlinsales.com/advancedwebpage.aspx?p=careers Please send resume to dgroh@carlinsales.com

Landscape Construction Division Manager is a full time position. The responsibilities include scheduling, overseeing daily operations, quality control, coordinating jobs with Account Managers and making sure site supervisors have all information daily for each job. Plant purchasing will be required. Will also have to manage budgets, and make sure jobs are getting done in the highest quality possible. During Winter Months will be involved with the Snow Operations Team. Will also have to implement safety procedures for the Department and the company. Spanish Speaking is a plus. The applicant is required to have at least 3 years of experience in the industry and also to have performed some or all of the duties listed above. Salary will be commensurate with experience. Projected starting salary 75k. Company car allowance, health insurance, paid holidays, generous vacation allowance. Any interested qualified employees please contact Semmer Landscape LLC at 708-972-5211. Landscape Construction Manager Job Description Chicago Specialty Gardens, Inc. (CSG), a 25-year-old urban garden design/build firm, seeks to immediately fill the position of Construction Manager. This position requires an individual with a deep understanding of standard landscape and rooftop construction techniques; able to use creative problemsolving skills; be mechanically inclined, and possess functional knowledge of specialized tools, equipment, vehicles and protocols used in the landscape construction and carpentry fields. The ideal candidate would possess strong management skills and demonstrated leadership; have a curious and creative mindset, with the desire to learn and teach new construction techniques and methods; possess a very high level of personal and professional conduct and ethics; and have a strong set of organizational, communications and people skills. The CM must always be able to motivate their staff; work in close proximity and communication with peers; interact easily and successfully with Clients, suppliers, and industry figures; and have a positive, energetic, creative “can do” attitude, as well as a sense of humor.

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

The Construction Manager position is a fulltime, salary-based position with full benefits package. Competitive wages are based on experience with room for advancement. Please email resume and salary expectations for consideration. Contact: Phil Cleland, President phil@chicagogardens.com

CLASSIFIED ADS

CLOSING DATES & RATES July 2020 issue ads: June 15, 2020 August 2020 issue ads: July 15, 2020 PLEASE NOTE: “HELP WANTED” AD SALES ARE LIMITED TO ILCA MEMBER COMPANIES Magazine Cost is $5 per line Minimum charge $50 Website Cost is $12 per line Minimum charge $120 (About 6 words/line) Submit your ads online at ilca.net or Call Alycia Nagy (630) 472-2851

HELP WANTED

Construction Foreman

include, but are not limited to: demolition/ excavation, mobilization of materials, installation of rooftop gardens and floating pedestal systems, soil preparation and planting, mulching, seeding, laying sod, finish grading, and use of power machinery and tools. Landscape Crewmembers report to, and take direction from the Construction Foreman and Operations Manager, and will interact directly with company Designers and Maintenance personnel.

• Ability to organize resources, establish priorities, and manage multiple projects of any size • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing • Ability to be a problem solver who readily adapts to change • Ability to foster a cooperative and productive work environment • Excellent supervisory skills • Skill in the use of PC’s, and related software applications including Outlook, Excel, Access

Job Description Chicago Specialty Gardens, Inc. (CSG), a 25-year-old design/build firm specializing in the design, construction, and maintenance of contemporary urban rooftop gardens and landscapes, seeks to immediately fill the position of Construction Foreman. The Construction Foreman has primary responsibility for the installation and management of landscape and hardscape projects for the company. The Construction Foreman reports to, and takes direction from the Construction Manager, and interacts closely with company Designers, Maintenance personnel and the Operations Manager. The CF also interacts with subcontractors hired by the company, suppliers and clients, and will be responsible for managing crews on-site. Qualifications: • Landscape construction experience is required • Experience working in city buildings and rooftop are a plus • Must be able to multi-task and make quick and decisive decisions • Responsible self-starter with ability to manage crew members • Able to comprehend project documents and plans to envision the process and challenges involved • Two years of foreman experience is required. • Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus. • Must have a valid driver’s license with a good driving record The Construction Foreman position is a fulltime, hourly-based seasonal position with full benefits package. The season is roughly from March 1st to December 15th. Competitive wages are based on experience with room for advancement. Contact: Roger Cleland, Operations Manager roger@chicagogardens.com Landscape Crewmember Job Description Chicago Specialty Gardens, Inc. (CSG), a 25-year-old design/build firm specializing in the design, construction, and maintenance of contemporary urban rooftop gardens and landscapes, seeks to immediately fill the position Landscape Crewmember. The Landscape Crewmember’s primary duties

Requirements: • Transportation to/from work or public transportation • Excellent work ethics and willingness to learn • Must have good communication skills • Ability to lift 50+ lbs. (repeatedly) • Some experience in landscaping and construction preferred • Should have mechanical aptitude, and be self-motivated and organized • Candidate must have excellent references and a high level of ethical and moral behavior The Construction Foreman position is a fulltime, hourly-based seasonal position with full benefits package. The season is roughly from March 1st to December 15th. Competitive wages are based on experience with room for advancement. Contact: Roger Cleland, Operations Manager roger@chicagogardens.com LANDSCAPE DESIGNER/ARCHITECT Lake Forest Design/Build firm, searching for a Landscape Architect to join our Design Department/Team. We are a small firm who specializes in the design, installation and aftercare of landscapes for high-end residential homes and estates. We handle a variety of projects including estate master planning, woodland and prairie restorations, sculpture gardens, and restoration of historic gardens. Designer works directly with owner on all design projects. Primary work region is Northern Illinois; select jobs can be out of state. The successful applicant will be a creative, highly motivated, outgoing individual who is comfortable wearing multiple hats. QUALIFICATIONS • Landscape Architecture degree from an accredited 4 year program • 5+ years’ experience in all aspects of landscape design, project management, and construction • Expansive plant material knowledge of Midwestern US native and ornamental plants • Proficiency in CAD and hand drawing

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Craig Bergmann Landscape Design, Inc. offers competitive salary with vacation, 401k plan, health and dental insurance, etc.. Salary range begins at $57,000 yr., Salary commensurate with experience. Craig Bergmann Landscape Design, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Email resume and salary requirements to info@ craigbergmann.com Installation Supervisor The Installation Supervisor is responsible for supervising 2 Installation Foreman and crews during landscape construction. This is a full time, seasonal position active during the typical months of construction - March through November. There is potential for part time hours during winter months. Craig Bergmann Landscape Design works to maintain the highest degree of customer satisfaction and quality garden care. This position’s goal is to ensure that the final installed product holds true to the original design and the vision inspired by Craig Bergmann and his design team. Responsibilities include: • Daily oversight of 2 Installation Foremen and laborers. Ability to communicate in Spanish is a plus. • Report crew hours utilizing Excel worksheets, Assist and report issues with crew members to Human Resources/Installation Management. • Act as company representative to the client and others during installation project. Coordinate with staff, other contractors, and municipalities as needed to ensure consistent work flow and high-quality deliverables. • Work with Installation Project Manager on questions and installation needs. • Read design plans for proper placement and installation of plant material. • Oversee all rough grade, installation and finishing work at job sites.

Classified Ads HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

• Pickup of hard good materials from yard based on project requirements. • Coordinate all waste disposal including load and haul away to approved sites per specifications. • Daily receipt of scheduling directives and completion of paperwork relating to deliveries, returns, additional work, change order & replacement order paperwork, client requests, management requests. • Ensure tools and equipment are properly maintained and all safety standards are kept.

Landscape Design, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Salary: $26.00 to $32.00 /hour, commensurate on experience.

Education Qualifications • Must be able to read, write and understand English. Ability to communicate in Spanish a plus. • Minimum High School Education. College Degree in Landscape Architecture or equivalent preferred. Experience Required: • Minimum of 5 years in Landscape Project Management or equivalent experience. • Horticulture knowledge and formal training especially in plants for the Midwest a plus. Additional Required Skills: • Possess a valid Illinois driver’s license to drive and be insurable by company. CDL License a plus. • Illinois pesticide operator’s license or ability to obtain pesticide license upon employment. • Good physical condition with the ability to lift 60 pounds, stand & walk for extended periods of time, work outdoors in all types of weather, and handle extended schedules seasonally. • Proficiency in Microsoft applications including Outlook email and Excel. • Able to manage irrigation systems. • Use of grade and topographic measuring tools. Knowledge of transit survey equipment. • Experience/Proficient skill to use basic garden care and installation tools including: shovels, rakes, pruning saws, saws, hedge and brush trimmers, axes, etc. • Experience/Proficient skill to drive and operate a light dump truck and trailer. • Experience/Proficient skill to operate standard landscape equipment including skid-steer, sod cutters, roto-tillers, chain-saws, electric clippers, sod cutters, backpack blowers, pruning saws, etc.

Send resume and salary requirements to info@ craigbergmann.com Landscape Architect / Designer K&D Enterprise Landscape Management Inc. is a full-service design/build contractor based in the southwest suburbs servicing the suburban and Chicago markets. We are seeking an individual that is motivated to succeed working alongside a professional staff who is passionate about the landscape industry. We are currently looking to add an Architect and or Designer to our team. Our ideal candidate has a degree in landscape architecture or landscape design with a minimum of 5 years’ experience in residential design/build. Position requires strong customer relation skills with the ability to lead projects from concept to completion. Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp and Adobe Suite are ideal among other design software options. Primary Responsibilities • Customer intake with concept and design development. • Site plans and specifications with cost estimates. • Construction knowledge and the ability to select material. • Site visits supporting project team members during construction. • Participate in management, scheduling, marketing, and sales initiatives. • Establish standard presentation package. Compensation to include annual salary with medical benefits. Total compensation package will be based on experience and qualifications. Interested candidates please submit resume to kmanning@kdlandscapeinc.com

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

Craig Bergmann Landscape Design, Inc. offers competitive salary with vacation, 401k plan, health and dental insurance. Craig Bergmann

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

HELP WANTED Landscape Designer King’s Landscape Design is looking to hire a dynamic, highly motivated individual to our team. King’s has been a staple in the western suburbs since 1959. We are in need of a Landscape Design/Sales Professional. The position is salaried; pay will be commensurate with experience and education. 401K and health insurance available. All resumes submitted to: mking@kingslandscaping.com Design/ Sales Professional: The qualified candidate must be ambitious, possess a 4 year degree in landscape architecture or related field. They will need to facilitate projects from concept to completion. Customer service skills are mandatory; Knowledge of Dynascape , LMN and 3-5 yrs. experience is a plus.

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Attention Advertisers:

Bartlett Tree Experts .............................................50 Breezy Hill Nursery ..............................................21 Cardno ...................................................................42 Compost Supply.....................................................48 Doty Nurseries LLC ................................................4 D&S Truck Center ................................................40 Fairview Evergreen Nursery .................................50 Goodmark Nurseries .............................................29 Green Glen Nursery ..............................................63 Hinsdale Nurseries, Inc. ........................................12

offers some extraordinary MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES. Just one call opens the door to enhanced sales and marketing success. Call Debbie to get started! 817-501-2403

Homer Industries ...................................................15 Iron Rental .............................................................49 JKS Ventures ........................................................51 Lafarge Fox River Stone ......................................43 Longshadow Planters ............................................11 Mariani Plants .........................................................6 Mariani Plants .......................................................35 Martin Implement .................................................19 McGinty Bros. ......................................................51 Midwest Groundcovers ...........................................2 Midwest Trading ...................................................17 RWC Insurance .....................................................52 Spring Meadow Nursery .......................................23 The Landscape Contractor magazine ....................56 The Mulch Center .................................................39 Unilock, Inc. ..........................................................64

Attention Landscape Contractors: Remember to Support ILCA Supporters!

These include:

• Members & Advertisers who supply goods and services • Members who sponsor ILCA programs and events

Where will you find them? • ILCA Membership Directory & Buyer’s Guide • The Landscape Contractor magazine advertising • The Landscape Contractor magazine reports of events with sponsor acknowledgments • www.ilca.net member lists – Finding a Landscape Contractor & Suppliers to the Trade

Wilson Nuseries and Landscape Supply ...............55

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

Hidden Gems Worth Visiting

Anderson Japanese Gardens by Heather Prince

Anderson Japanese Gardens began in 1978

when Rockford businessman John Anderson, inspired by a visit to the Portland Japanese Garden in Oregon, contracted renowned garden designer Hoichi Kurisu to create a Japanese-style landscape along Spring Creek in Rockford at the base of forested bluffs. In 1998, John and Linda donated the gardens, and they opened as a not-for-profit destination for anyone seeking inspiration and solace. These elegant gardens offer many private and public spaces as you explore the stone paths, ponds, waterfalls, nooks, and crannies. One special space is the guesthouse. “It was intended as an architectural element that could also be used for entertaining,” says Tim Gruner, Curator & Head of Horticulture. “It’s post and beam construction in the sukiya style or the ‘style of tea’, an offshoot of traditional tea house architecture.” To reach the guesthouse you must either pass through the South Gate and meander through a woodland scene or slip inside an opening in the fence to follow the paved path. It is a garden to be stumbled across and discovered. As soon as you cross the threshold from the road, you instantly feel calm settle over your shoulders. Surrounded by the music of water, “It’s nestled at the base of the hill with a waterfall tumbling over stones, a small stream and a viewing pond,” observes Gruner. “It is designed to provide the basic function of a tea garden where the idea is you are escaping the trouble, clutter, and noise of daily life. This concept goes all the way back to 16th century Japan with that conscious design aesthetic that transports you away, be it

Anderson Japanese Gardens Rockford, Illinois 815.229.9390 andersongardens.org Due to Covid-19, please check Anderson Japanese Gardens website for up-to-date hours.

to a mountain path or a rustic retreat.” The path leads around the corner of the building to a wide deck and a raked gravel garden. “This particular gravel garden is different than most. Instead of being within a rectangular walled space, the plants and trees create the enclosure,” Gruner points out. “The idea is to create a void — an empty space. It is not about all the flowers or plants or ‘the stuff’, it’s about the space created, the space between the branches. It creates respite.” As you follow the paths, listen as the water changes tune with each step. “This is a water-rich garden. The idea of water flowing is present throughout. Kurisu described the concept as water droplets slowly collecting to form a stream to a waterfall to a pond. Each water element creates a soundscape to calm the mind and open the senses, bringing you more in touch with nature,” says Gruner. Japanese gardens are one of the most labor-intensive garden styles. Each element is carefully wrought. “This garden functions like a bento box. Each plant or tree is beautiful on its own, but it also must work together as a composition. It’s not a stir fry. Trees, for example, have to have individual character to be noticed but also fit into the context and have it all look effortlessly natural,” Gruner explains. Explore this and the rest of the gardens in spring, summer, and fall, as each scene evolves with the seasons.

The Landscape Contractor June 2020

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