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March 2020
CONTENTS Excellence In Landscape Awards Project
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FOCUS: Hardscapes 2020 iLandscape 2020 10 iLandscape began and nature smiled Excellence in Landscape Awards All the awards in Gold, Silver and Merit
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Hot Commodities: Fire Bowls, Tables, and Pits 36 Exploring the hottest trend in residential hardscapes Turf Update 44 Environmental low impact options for the green industry
EN ESPAÑOL
Latino Highlights from iLandscape 2020 48
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New Members 49 A bounty of new members from iLandscape Hidden Landscape Gems Bird Haven Greenhouse and Conservatory
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On the cover... Scott Byron & Company, Inc. won a Gold award in Residential Landscape Construction for this 2019 project — Highland Park Residence. The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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CONTENTS
DEPARTMENTS ILCA Calendar From Where I Stand President’s Message New Members Classified Ads Advertisers Index Photo Credits
ILCA Awards Committee Rick Reuland Bird Haven Greenhouse
Calendar 4 5 7 58 62 65
MARCH March 4, 2020 Women’s Networking Group Spring Event Chicago Botanic Garden Glencoe March 11-12, 2020 Field Staff Skills Training NIU Conference Center Naperville
1,8-9 10-25, 48, 56 62
March 24, 2020 Natural Stone: From Permit to Production, to Payment NIU Conference Center Naperville
The official publication of the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association (ILCA), The Landscape Contractor is dedicated to educating, advising and informing members of this industry and furthering the goals of the Association. The Landscape Contractor carries news and features relating to landscape contracting, maintenance, design and allied interests. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material and reserves the right to edit any article or advertisement submitted for publication. Publication reserves right to refuse advertising not in keeping with goals of Association. WWW.ilca.net Volume 61, Number 3. The Landscape Contractor (ISSN # 0194-7257, USPS # 476-490) is published monthly for $75.00 per year by the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association, 2625 Butterfield Road, Ste. 104S, Oak Brook, IL 60523. Periodicals postage paid at Oak Brook, IL and additional mailing offices. Printed in USA.
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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
June 25, 2020 Design Tour Chicago
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
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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
Senior Writer
treethyme@aol.com
dotynurseries.com
Patrice Peltier
Membership & Marketing Manager Marissa Stubler mstubler@ilca.net
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Feature Writer
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at dotynu rseries.co m to recei ve our
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Feature Writer patpeltier@charter.net
ILCA
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Nina Koziol Feature Writer
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The Landscape Contractor March 2020
facebook.com/illinoislandscapecontractorsassociation
From Where I Stand — Don’t call it a comeback.
ILCA just wrapped the 2020 iLandscape tradeshow. The 7th annual iLandscape show was the largest event that ILCA has hosted since the fall of MidAm — it may have also been the finest. A record 6,400 landscape professionals joined us at the Schaumburg Convention Center over the 2.5 days of the show. Landscape professionals are either a hearty bunch or have shorter memories than drunken hamsters. People shrugged off the Polar Vortex of 2019 and registered en masse for 2020. From wire to wire, our numbers outpaced the past two years of shows. We hovered around double-digit growth where the average annual tradeshow grows by less than 2%. The weather cooperated the entire week. Not a flake of snow fell from the sky until Thursday night and temperatures danced between the high 30s and low 40s. Including wind chill, the first Wednesday of the show had a 93 degree difference from one year to the next. As the attendees streamed through the doors, the ones who remembered my pale and terrified face from the previous year cracked, “Some weather we are having!” iLandscape was the beneficiary of tremendous weather, but the success of the 2020 show can’t just be chalked up to a random spin of Mother Nature’s roulette wheel. This column is less about a comeback and more about where iLandscape comes from. Now that the show has established itself as one of the largest green industry shows in the country, it’s fun to look back and examine how and, more importantly, who got us here. The night before iLandscape, the tradeshow committee, which is dubbed “The Experience Committee,” gathers for their annual kickoff dinner. It’s a night of laughter and relaxation. All of the prep work has been completed. At that point, it’s either been taken care of or it ain’t getting done. We eat and drink and tell stories. We’ve learned to request a private space so our laughter and language don’t annoy the other patrons and wait staff. This year, the dinner was bittersweet. We would be saying farewell to four original members of the Experience Committee - Scott Lucchetti, Tony LoBello, Tim Caldwell, and John Algozzini. All four had been with the tradeshow since its humble beginnings. All four have dedicated hundreds of hours to the establishment of iLandscape as the most anticipated event of the year. Scott Lucchetti is part of our Layout Committee. All of those garden spaces we enjoy every year are the brainchild of his committee, Chris Walsh, and the enthusiastic team at Topiarius. It’s Scott’s job to create a massive landscape design that could: be installed in two days, removed in six hours, have a tight budget, consist of indoor plants that would be transported in the most severe weather conditions, endure the abuse of 6,000 people over three days, be approved by a fire marshal, and impress an entire audience of professionals who design landscapes for a living. Scott’s quiet focus, and vision help separate iLandscape from every other pipe-and-drape industry show. Tony LoBello is the only member of ILCA who can say he had one foot on the sinking ship of MidAm and one foot on the life raft of iLandscape at the same time. Tony served on the MidAm Board as the show cratered that final year. Tony spent hours with the sponsoring organizations to try and repair the MidAm model. In the end, it was obvious it was the model itself that had doomed the event. All the king’s horses and all the king’s men couldn’t put MidAm back together again. Tony knew the workload and sacrifice that launching a new
show in the heart of the recession would take. It had to be new, but familiar, inexpensive, but elegant, professional, but wacky. No problem, right? Tim Caldwell was President of ILCA the year MidAm collapsed. The months leading up to MidAm were tense as ILCA notified the other groups of our intention to launch a new event. We had no idea what it was going to look like. We had no idea where it was going to be. Yet, it was going to happen, somehow and be planned by somebody. Tim attended meeting after meeting with the concerned partners whose emotions ranged from anger to envy. Tim knew what everyone knew; that a new tradeshow had to follow a new model. Launching iLandscape with the same structure would make it destined to fail. Tim put faith in the staff and newly formulating committee who promised him it could be done. Tim had the impossible job of making it look like we knew what we were doing — while quietly worrying if we knew what we were doing. That brings us to Johnny Algo. John Algozzini, in either the best or worst job interview of all time, said that whoever was put in charge of running the iLandscape committee had to be fearless and/or certifiably crazy. He then said he was the man for the job. As a member of ILCA Education Committee and designer at heart, he knew that sometimes the only way to fix a landscape design is to flip the piece of paper over and start again. John’s personality still radiates in some of the best part of the show — the entertainment, the games, the raffles, the vibe, and all the other intangibles that make iLandscape feel like the very experience we set out to create seven years ago. John knew that iLandscape would only work if we took chances. If we played it safe, the show would be dead in two years. iLandscape had to defy expectations. People were expecting small and cheap, they weren’t going to get it on his watch. As mentioned, iLandscape is the result of dozens of volunteers working annually to one-up themselves. What sets Scott, Tony, Tim, and John apart was that they had the courage to attach their names and reputations to not a Phoenix, but a fledgling in that first year. The four volunteers highlighted above, as well as all the ILCA volunteers who work on iLandscape don’t just lend their time, they lend themselves. They lend their vision, their knowledge, their senses of humor, and their musical and artistic choices. These individual personalities mingle on a committee and those committees form the central nervous system of iLandscape. A tradeshow venue is just cold rooms and hard floors before the volunteers and staff breathe life into them. Specifically, we need to recognize the following: The Experience Committee is at their most comfortable at the end of the day hanging around the hotel lobby slinging back beers and cracking jokes about each other. It’s no surprise that the event has a “come as you are” party-like feel where everyone is welcome. This is no accident, it’s the result of a family of volunteers who insist on throwing a party that they themselves would want to attend. The Education Committee is studious and fearless. They want to make sure every speaker is prepared, has a pedigree, and there is no topic that is off limits or too controversial. If you are afraid of your paradigm shifting, go somewhere else. The Membership Committee radiates pride in the ILCA, but also realizes that it’s best to listen to the needs of landscape professionals before announcing you can help them. Therefore, they set up shop in the heart of the tradeshow and require that every member and Board mem-
Pride and Joy
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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From Where I Stand —
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866-627-4264
ber work shifts in the Membership booth. The Latino Relations Committee is about elevating Latinos and meeting them on their terms. They know most in their community distrust large gatherings with strangers and that’s why our committee is extremely hands-on making attendees comfortable the moment they walk in the door. The FLIP Committee offers the acceptance and patience one needs when working with students. They learned the lessons years ago that simply handing out free jobs and money isn’t enough. Students need to be nurtured and welcomed or they disappear into their busy lives or, at worst, another profession. The Awards Committee sees the very best in our industry and demands we offer a process and put on a production that merits these lofty accolades. These awards are a result of years or even decades of hard work and service. It is their job to create a night these superstars will never forget. Finally, the Irrigation Committee looks to gather a brand new segment of the profession at iLandscape’s doors. ILCA has over 25% of all registered irrigation contractors as members and wants to grow that number each year by offering workshops and education at our signature event. All of these committees come together to form the experience that we call iLandscape. Now, “experience” is a wonderful word, but what exactly does it mean? What are we supposed to experience, after all, at iLandscape? The easy way out is to say that the event is designed to create a unique experience for everyone who attends. I am sure that every volunteer would answer that differently and I’m sure Scott, Tony, Tim, and Algo would have their own colorful answers. If I wanted to paint with a broad brush, I would say that the experience I want to create at iLandscape is simple: pride. I want every landscape professional who attends to recognize how hard we work to create an event this industry can take pride in. That when 1,000 people circle around that stage hoping their name is called to win a $1,000 raffle prize, and they drink and eat and laugh with one another, they feel pride. We want them to humbly ask, “You did all this for me?” Our response is, “Of course we did!” We want everyone who attends iLandscape to take the pride they feel over 2.5 days out into the season. We want that feeling that they matter to color every interaction with a client, coworker, or competitor. Pride impacts pricing, how we allow ourselves to be valued, and how much passion we invest into our jobs. Let’s not allow the efforts of the volunteers who sacrifice their time and talent to iLandscape drift away the first time we feel devalued (and that will happen). Instead, remember that you are a talented, educated, and well-connected landscape professional surrounded by a community who respects you...and you’ve got the experience to prove it. Thanks for everything Scott, Tony, Tim, Johnny Algo and all the rest who have molded iLandscape in their own images over the years. You made us all proud. Scott Grams December 19, 2019
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The Landscape Contractor March 2020
President’s Message — Welcome to the light, the water, and to long days
Today we greet March, giving the welcoming light, to all the trees’ challenging buds, to the equinox that falls around the 21st to establish the start of spring that wears all its greens and vibrant multi-colors. March is the annual entrance of increasingly long days, which the cardinals preach their uproar to newcomers. The winter season concludes, and spring brings the endorphins that give meaning to life, with which everything germinates. By the time March leaves, it’ll be spring, and St Patrick will have filled the City with four-leaf clovers. March marks the time to implement plans to start a new season with the energy, character and joy that is required. It is time to make those calls to our workers that anxiously expect one, and welcome our employees back little by little in our projects. As organizers, we are still enjoying the record we set of 6,400 attendees at the iLandscape Show 2020. A round of applause to all who participated and made this event a total success. On the other hand, Trump, our president, was acquitted of the chargers against him, this will benefit everyone by bringing an economic uptick to various sectors of the economy and certainly some in ours. I invite you to participate more actively in the committees that need it. From our variety of committees, I have no doubt that you’ll easily find one on which you can participate and thus strengthen our Association even more. I also invite you to attend and participate in the different activities and seminars that the association offers throughout the year.
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
Cordially, I hope to see you all shortly.
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
Bienvenida la Luz, el agua..y los Días Largos
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
Hoy saludamos marzo dando la bienvenida a la luz, a los desafiantes brotes en todos los árboles, al equinoccio que se deja caer en torno al día 21 para declarar el inicio de la primavera que viste de todos los tonos de verde y multicolores variantes. Marzo es la entrada anual a la sucesión de los días cada vez más largos, que los cardenales pregonan su alboroto de recién llegados. Concluye la temporada invernal y rebrotan las endorfinas que dan sentido a la vida, con las que todo germina. Al irse marzo ya será primavera. San Patricio llenará de tréboles de cuatro hojas a la ciudad. Marzo nos señala el momento de implementar planes para comenzar una nueva temporada con la energía, carácter y alegría que se requiere. Es el momento de hacer esas llamadas a nuestros trabajadores que ansiosos esperan y en esa forma incorporarlos poco a poco en nuestros proyectos. Como organizadores aún estamos disfrutando de una cifra récord de 7000 asistentes que arrojó el iLandscape Show 2020; un aplauso más a todos los que participaron e hicieron de este evento todo un éxito. Por otro lado Trump nuestro presidente fue exonerado de los cargos que se le imputaban, esto beneficiará a todos trayendo un repunte económico en varios sectores de la economía y sin duda alguna en el nuestro. Los invito a participar más activamente en los comités que tanta ayuda necesitan. Ante la variedad de ellos no tengo la menor duda que fácilmente encontrarán alguno donde puedan participar y así fortalecer más a nuestra asociación ILCA. Así mismo los invito a atender y participar en las diferentes actividades y seminarios que la asociación ofrece a través del año. Sin más por el momento reciban un cordial saludo esperando verlos en breve.
José M. Garcia Presidente de ILCA The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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Grant & Power Landscaping, Inc. • West Chicago A Gardener’s Paradise
The homeowner
had a vision of turning the property into a private garden retreat on a grand scale from the beginning. The latest phase of the project, the front yard, started with the need to remove some trees that were declining and it evolved from there. The overall idea was to welcome guests from the street by extending the walk and opening the front yard; creating direct access to the house and giving the front yard depth. A smaller cutstone wall holds up the grade to a separate upper walk area, creating a more terraced front yard that seamlessly transitions the grade from the street. The overall challenge of the project has always been the size of the property versus the requests of the client. The layers of plant beds in the back yard were designed to create movement and designate different spaces within gardens using lawn. Directing your eye around undulating bed lines makes the yard appear much larger. It was also very important that the gardens be experienced by adding pathways and lighting throughout. The planting design
is constantly being modified on site, accommodating the client’s desire to always be enlarging and filling in the gardens. The natural stone patio was designed with multiple areas for entertaining and viewing the gardens. A unique rain curtain water feature completed the client’s vision for the space. The new patio space was constrained by existing garden beds and features. All existing plantings had to be adjusted on site after the completion of the new hardscape elements. A collaborative relationship, built on years of trust with the homeowner allows constant on site design changes to work. What started as bare soil 25 years ago has developed into a Gardener’s Paradise, installing everything from plantings, hardscapes, a water feature and overall lighting. The entire property has been continually, professionally maintained on a monthly basis, for over 20 years. Endlessly evolving, new projects are thought up and implemented every year, creating the private estate garden on a suburban lot that the client was dreaming of.
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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iLandscape 2020 —
iLandscape
20 20
TM
The illinois +begins wisconsin Landscape Show iLandscape and nature smiles by Nina A. Koziol
The 7th annual iLandscape Show was a roaring success by all accounts. Nearly 6,500 attendees came to learn, experience, network, order new products, and party during the three-day event. “We passed a record as of Thursday,” said ILCA Executive Director Scott Grams. The weather helped out with almost balmy temperatures compared to last year’s polar vortex. And, three years of economic growth and increased consumer spending have boosted the green industry and it showed—there was a constant, positive vibe in the halls, on the trade show floors and in the classes. This year’s theme was “Making Connections” and Nancy Mstowski, an account manager for Wingren Landscape in Downers Grove, took it to heart. “We were introducing ourselves to vendors and catching up with colleagues to find out where they’re at and what they’re doing. And, we were there to find out about the latest and greatest plants.” A steady stream of visitors strolled into the Ball Seed exhibit to see the new impatiens Beacon® Bright Red and others, touted as having high resistance to Impatiens downy mildew. Others seeking an alternative to Goldsturm blackeyed Susan found it in Rudbeckia ‘American Gold Rush’ at Intrinsic Perennial Gardens’ booth. The latest-and-greatest plants also appeared in presentations on plant breeding and meadow-making.
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The Landscape Contractor March 2020
Engage & Educate
Designers, authors, landscape professionals and green industry leaders conducted 50 educational sessions where attendees were inspired and informed about everything from robotic lawn mowers, tree care, social media and labor issues to landscape makeovers, trending design ideas and hardscape practices. Many of the seminars had standing room only, despite the large conference halls—a nod to the popularity of the topics and the speakers, both local and national. “The stormwater management was one of the best programs I’ve attended,” Nancy Mstowski said. Given the extremely wet spring last year, it’s no surprise that the room was filled to capacity when landscape architect Vallari Talapatra of EcoScapes in Wheaton took the stage. Her talk, “Designing for Storm Water Management in
January 29-31
Landscaping in Joliet. He was one of the instructors in the Spanish language classes where he talked about “The Five Keys to Success.” More than 275 exhibitors and 500 booths showcased goods from lawn and landscape firms, plants from nurseries near and far, power equipment, hand tools, business-to-business service providers, hardscape vendors and construction businesses. Participants had a shot at raffles and giveaways that included $20,000 in gift cards, cash prizes, Cubs tickets and more.
Come One, Come All
Residential Landscapes,” focused on surface textures, rain gardens, bioswales and other techniques to help mitigate water issues that seem to worsen each year. A chance to see other ILCA members’ bread-and-butter projects—and the twists and turns of the design and installation processes—drew Ave Zuccarino of Kiave Design in Oak Park to Landscape Makeovers on Small Sites: Three Case Studies. “It’s really helpful to see the before and after images,” Zuccarino said. “I liked the construction photos and how they talked about the issues—the underbelly of the design.” Two irrigation workshops, a full day of Spanish language classes and a half-day career fair featuring 45 top employers drew hundreds of attendees. “Education for me is the most important thing,” said ILCA President José Garcia of Natural Creations
This year’s show continued to draw many attendees from outside of Illinois—no surprise there—it’s a joint effort by the ILCA and the Wisconsin Nursery & Landscape Association. More than 100 volunteers answered questions, worked the education sessions and explained how to use the brand new iLandscape app, which let attendees view daily schedules, explore exhibitor info, create a personalized education schedule, network with other attendees and complete evaluations quickly. “This is my third iLandscape,” said Nate Bishop of Everetts Landscape Management in Grand Rapids, Michigan. “We go to the Lansing show, but we leave that one early to come here—iLandscape has the energy of new ideas and that’s what draws me.” It was the first iLandscape for Rachelle Frosch, a horticulturist at The Morton Arboretum. “I like it better than the old Mid-Am—there’s a lot more diversity and different garden subjects. There are plenty of tools and equipment at the show, but also people who work with plants, soils and amendments.” The iLandscape bookstore featured popular titles from several speakers who held book signings after their sessions. “The quality and caliber of the speakers sets this show apart,” Nate Bishop said while he waited to purchase a book by speaker Jan Johnsen. “They talk about pushing the new designs and you can apply it right away.”
Don’t Miss Out
Mark your calendars for the 8th annual iLandscape show, February 3-5, 2021. For more ILCA happenings, visit www.ilca.net and click on Events.
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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iLandscape 2020 —
Educational classes...
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The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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The Landscape Contractor March 2020
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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Excellence In Landscape Awards Night 2020
Person of the Year
Joe Hobson
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The Landscape Contractor March 2020
Distinguished Supplier Award
Kaknes Landscape Supply
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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Excellence In Landscape
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Judges’ Award
Professionals’ Choice Award
ILT Vignocchi
Chalet
Student Design
Scholarship Winners
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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Chicago Specialty Gardens Commercial Construction Dynamic Downtown Rooftop Resort
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Chicago Specialty Gardens Residential Construction Huron Aerie The Landscape Contractor March 2020
Gold Awards 2019
Clarence Davids & Company Commercial Maintenance Harbor Point Condominiums
ILT Vignocchi Residential Construction Itasca Residence
Grant & Power Landscaping, Inc. Residential Construction A Gardener’s Paradise
James Martin Associates Ecological Planting Birdland
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Excellence In Landscape
Mariani Landscape Residential Maintenance Belgian Beauty
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Native Landscape Contractors Ecological Planting Pine Dunes Preserve 26
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Gold Awards 2019
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Excellence In Landscape
Black Creek Canyon, Inc. Specialty Element The Water Cottages
Clarence Davids and Company Commercial Construction The Lodge at the Shores
Black Creek Canyon, Inc. Residential Construction Slide Chalet
Hartman Landscape Residential Construction A Game of Inches
Black Creek Canyon, Inc. Residential Construction Rocky Wonderland 30
Hartman Landscape Residential Construction Backyard Retreat The Landscape Contractor March 2020
Silver Awards 2019
King’s Landscape Design Specialty Element Community Corridor
Moore Landscapes, LLC Commercial Maintenance Chicago Park District Floral Gardens
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Moore Landscapes, LLC Commercial Maintenance Illinois Tool Works
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Native Landscape Contractors Commercial Construction Resource Bank
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Silver Awards 2019
Night Light, Inc. Specialty Element Charm After Dark
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Hardscape 2020 —
Ho t
Commodities: Fire Bowls, Fire Tables, Fire Pits and Fire Places Nina A. Koziol
There’s a trend in patio
Custom Masonry Fireplace and Pavilion (Wingren Landscape) design—people want fire. Maybe it’s a throwback to our human ancestors. Fire or a neighbor has one, and they want to add a nice feature to features extend the time we spend outdoors even on chilly their landscape. We also do quite a few built-in grills.” days—whether it’s early spring, or well into fall when the leaves drop (Go Bears!). And then there’s winter. Roger Carlson of Ephraim Forge in Gas Up and Go Frankfort installed a stone counZac Selleck is president of cil ring with a large fire pit that’s Chicago Gas Lines in Arlington used year ’round but especially on Heights and his firm installs more New Year’s Eve when his family than 1,000 fire pits each year along and friends enjoy a nice, traditional with fire tables, fire places, lighting, Scandinavian fire. heaters and grills that require gas. “The world of fire is ever chang“We work with about 100 landscape ing,” says landscape architect Bob contractors. The big thing is getHursthouse of Hursthouse, Inc. in ting a plumber on site before any Bolingbrook. “Originally it was a other work is done,” Selleck said. lot of wood-burning campfire rings “We want to get the gas line in the set as a destination, or masonry fire ground first so that everyone can pits set in the main patio.” That has keep working.” changed big time with new materiOne challenge for Selleck is als, sleek metal fire tables and gas finding existing products on site burners. that are out of date. “Or, iron pipe is A fire feature is usually on his buried—not to code—and we have clients’ wish list, according to Matt to replace it. Our big thing that’s Thumm, residential design manager key—getting us out early—not for Wingren Landscape in Downers before the fire pit is already built or Grove. “The demand for fire feaafter the patio is installed.” Another tures is growing and it’s almost a problem is not enough gas getting staple on patio projects,” he says. to all the fixtures. On some sites, More often than not, a patio build “Plumbers will run a half-inch gas includes a fire pit or fireplace in his line to everything. Grills couldn’t projects. “Clients have seen pictures, Highland Brown stone by Krukowski Stone Co., (continued on page 38) Wilke Outdoor Fireplace.
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Hardscape 2020 — (continued from page 36) work to capacity. The client may have four gas lights, a fire place, or fire pit so they couldn’t work properly.” Thumm often works with Selleck’s firm because many municipalities only allow gas. “They won’t allow woodburning so you need a gas hook up,” Thumm explains. “And, it’s so convenient for the homeowner being able to start them so easily.” If there’s any chance your client may be considering an outdoor kitchen down the road, get the gas lines in first. They can be capped and accessed later. Selleck has a custom trailer that he takes to the site so that the homeowner and landscape contractor can pick out gas grills and other amenities, which saves time for everyone involved.
types of stone and make about 50 different products in different shapes and colors.” Their materials are available at Lurvey Garden Center in Des Plaines. Thumm’s projects often include custom masonry. “It’s mostly natural stone veneer or brick to match the house, but we also have manufactured units in different styles, shapes and sizes. As far as materials go, they’re typically in concrete fiber or decorative metal.”
Materials
Natural stone is often used in firefeature applications. “We quarry a very hard, dense stone that’s fire-resistant,” says Joanie Whitt of Krukowski Stone in Mosinee, Wisconsin. “We quarry two
Aqua Grantique Ledgerock with Honed Aqua Grantique Hearth and Cap. Krukowski Stone Company for Topiarius.
Check municipal codes on placement of fire features. The Landscape Contractor 38 March 2020
Fire Tables
Fire tables give that edgy vibe to a new, stylish landscape. They can be the size of a coffee table or a dining room table. A large fire table can be used for dinners, sharing stories, playing cards and board games and more. They’re typically sleek and contemporary and made from fiber-reinforced concrete, aggregates, metals and other materials. “The fire table industry is definitely growing,” Selleck said. “Fire tables are more contemporary and for decks, (continued on page 40)
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Hardscape 2020 — (continued from page 38) they’re lighter weight. It’s not a permanent structure so the homeowners can take it with when they move. The main trend—people are getting away from the round or square look and they’re going rectangular.” While some homeowners opt to buy their own fire tables from a big-box store or online, Thumm cautions that, “The quality isn’t always there. Some of our vendors have high-quality products.” And as always, you get what you pay for. Inexpensive cheap products are just that. “Fire tables are appealing and can be a nice accessory,” Hursthouse said. “They work really well on rooftops or in smaller spaces. Most are fueled by a propane tank, which for me always runs out half way through the party.”
Fire Pits
When a client comes to you with a request for a fire feature, the budget certainly comes into play but you’ll want to find out what they expect from it. “I
“The fire pit is reminiscent of the council ring,” Hursthouse says. “Family and friends can gather around the fire and share stories across it.
think the main difference between a fire pit and fireplace is how you want to use them,” Hursthouse says. “The fire pit is reminiscent of the council ring. Family and friends can gather around the fire and share stories across it. The fireplace is something you sit in front of. Stories can still be told but the structure is the focal point.” Selleck is a huge advocate for fire pits and fire tables that are match-lit. “Clients want to push a remote button to start it, but all that is a problem in this climate. Match lighting saves the client money and prevents problems and once we show it to the client they get it.” Hursthouse has three fire pits at his home in Millbrook. “There’s a natural gas fire pit with a ceramic log set on the patio, a granite boulder campfire ring on the edge of the woods as a destination, and a portable wood burning fire pit I move around from our balcony to the gravel seating area in the prairie as the mood hits me. I like fire!” Regarding budgets, Thumm says (continued on page 42)
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Hardscape 2020 — (continued from page 40) that fire pits can run around $5,000. “A detailed fireplace can be four times as much.” He recommends that clients cover fire pits when not in use and especially in the winter. Municipalities also state the maximum size for the fire pit. “Because of that, we are designing and building a lot more natural gas-burning fire pits,” Hursthouse explained. “Because there is less chance of sparks, villages regulate them less. They are also really easy to use. Many of the gas fire pits we build can produce a lot of heat. Some have a higher BTU output than the home’s furnace.”
Outdoor Fireplaces “Any landscaper will tell you fireplaces are expensive,” Selleck says. “Pouring a pad, building a chimney— they’re beautiful but they come with a price tag. We do them, but they’re high end and it takes a special client.” Hursthouse can empathize with that. “Fireplaces are wonderful features in the garden and we build quite a few every year. They are more expensive to build correctly, requiring a concrete foundation. I am not a big fan of the small kits that get stacked up frequently. They usually don’t draft properly and are not long-lasting.” Help your clients navigate their
Fire pits, fire tables, fire places and outdoor kitchens are high up on clients’ wish lists (Hursthouse) 42
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
needs and desires. How will they use the space? “The client may think they want a big outdoor fireplace, but the space or their budget is tight,” Thumm said. “If it’s high on their wish list, we find a way to get it done.” Local municipalities have regulations that specify the minimum distance for a wood-burning fire pit from a combustible structure and every landscaper should be familiar with those requirements. “For a time, Naperville had a 50-foot rule, which basically eliminated wood-burning fire pits on quarter-acre lots,” Hursthouse said. “They have reduced that distance now, but it can still be a challenge.”
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Turf Update — For Your Consideration:
Environmental Low Impact Options for the Green Industry
by Meta Levin
Much has changed in the few months since
Mike Reed spoke at the 2019 Turf Education Day “Back then, most of the conversation talked about sustainability,” says the director of technical services and education for Branch Creek Organics, a division of SynaTek Solutions, Inc. To Reed the term means that it, “doesn’t get better; it doesn’t get worse.” Therefore, he says, “It doesn’t make sense to sustain something that is not working.” Now, however, he is focusing on regenerative practices. “it’s all about building the soil,” he says. “If you can do that, a lot of good things happen.” Environmentally, Reed says, we are in a degenerative cycle; annually we are losing four tons of farmland topsoil per acre from erosion due to wind and rain. “As part of the agriculture industry, we are part of the problem,” he says. “We need to find ways to reduce the trend.” In order to do that, Reed has been studying the situation and was particularly influenced by a course he took through KISS the Ground, an environmental nonprofit group dedicated to regeneration of land and soil. The group works to find ways to improve the environment and looks at the role climate change plays in the conditions. 44
Reed is not against synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. Instead, he is looking at ways to reduce the amount used in the soil. For instance, when landscape contractors perform soil tests. If the results show serious deficiencies, Reed is not against starting with synthetic pesticides and fertilizers; they can act as a bride to a regenerative program. “The key is to start to build the soil organic matter at the same time,” he says. To grow healthy plants, you need healthy soil. “Soil is the foundation.” “If you do the test and the organic matter in the soil comes in at one to two percent, the soil is almost on life support,” says Reed. At that point using low rates of synthetic fertilizer is a good option. “The grass needs to eat, but if the soil test shows low rates of organic matter, it means that there are few nutrients to sustain the turf.” Once the situation has improved, you can continue weaning the turf/soil onto organic fertilizers and pesticides. Soil is like a huge sponge, says Reed. It will suck up whatever nutrients are available to it. He recommends adding in the organic products gradually, building the soil. And healthy soil is crucial to good plant growth. (continued on page 46)
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
T S A A S EP I P H E T E F T O S G O TO HIN T
, rs M ir ve owe .CO d A el- tic m RN e A o h ® V b w ER all- or ro USQ W f e H O M e. Th ark e at O r m T m h o AU a c m D w n b en ar n AW a ne the . Le A s % y RN s b set 70 A e a to V o SQ e g varn up U c s q T H ma n H u s l i n e S c IR for m in S F per fro ring ' LD e 5X e O R s l o p ® 43 e uv n E W me er a TH tre ow tly m Ex tom den Au nfi co
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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Turf Update — (continued from page 44) A review: Grasses and other plants take in carbon dioxide. They use the carbon as a food source, breaking it down into sugars and carbohydrates, which they eat and/or store in their roots. In other words, the carbon goes back into the soil, where it belongs. A 20,000 square foot residential lawn can sequester 300 lbs. of carbon annually, says Reed. “That’s significant.” Carbon is one of the key components of greenhouse gasses. “There appears to be a direct correlation between greenhouse gasses and climate change.” Often landscape contractors are vilified for using pesticides and fertilizers on residential lawns, but they may be necessary at first to get the soil to the point where it will be able to efficiently use the organic products. If the soil is healthy and can contribute to the growth of a healthy lawn, there are effects beyond the aesthetic. A 2,500 square foot lawn can produce enough oxygen for a family of four, says Reed. Turf grass also can collect pollutants. They fall into the thatch zone, which micro-organisms eat as a food source. “We need to have enough grass,” says Reed. “We need to have a program to keep grass as healthy as possible, but also
build soil.” The organic matter in the soil helps build healthier grass and, especially, the roots. If you grow grass in good soil and it develops healthy roots, there is no place for weeds, he says. In using organic fertilizers, Reed points to the forest as an example. “Walk into the woods,” he says. “A 60-foot oak is growing and no one is fertilizing it. It is taking organic matter from the leaves and twigs that fall on the ground. We are taking a lesson from the forest.” So, how do you choose a synthetic pesticide or fertilizer that will do the least environmental damage, while building up your soil? Reed points to the Environmental Impact Quotient (EIQ) developed at Cornell University. It takes into consideration how the product affects the ecology, applicant and end consumer (property owner/user). Based on that, the product is assigned a score. “The closer to zero, the better the product,” he says. As an example, when choosing a grub control product, you might compare Acelepryn® with an EIQ of 3.4 with Trichlorfon with an EIQ of 163. Which one would you use? “You should choose a product that is better for the ecology, better for the workers applying it and best for the consumer,” says Reed.
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When choosing organic products, look for an OMRI certification. OMRI or Organic Materials Review Institute, certifies products for certified organic production, handling and processing. It must, however, be used following the manufacturer’s instructions. Once certified, the manufacturer can place an OMRI Listed® Seal on the container. There are other issues you should consider when working with synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. US Geological Survey studies have shown that some products can end up in our water systems and it is no secret that fresh water is our most important resource. The “Dead Zone” in the Gulf of Mexico is a low oxygen area caused by soil erosion and fertilizers that have been washed into the water. The nutrients create blooms phytoplankton. When they die, they sink to the bottom of the ocean, releasing CO2, which depletes the oxygen required to support marine life. Fish, clams and shrimp that need oxygen to live, cannot survive in a dead zone. Last year the dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico was the size of the state of Connecticut. Round Up has been an issue in the landscape community, ever since reports surfaced linking it with cancers, such as lymphoma. “I am not a scientist, so I can’t tell whether or not the product causes cancer, but public perception has tagged
it as such, and landscape contractors are looking for alternatives,” he says Reed recommends Prize Fighter, which is OMRI certified. “This will make a lot of people feel better about their choices.” In the end, the idea is to build up the soil, to choose products carefully and keep the climate in mind.
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New Members — CONTRACTORS
Email: teb531@gmail.com Phone: 630-377-0770 www.breenlandscaping.com Landscape maintenance and installation.
Acuna Landscaping, Inc. Roberto Acuna 375 Hawthorne Ln Des Plaines, IL 60016 Email: rrracunanf@comcast.net Phone: 847-759-0011 Antunez Inc. Eduardo Antunez Email: antunezinc@gmail.com Phone: 847-249-8236 www.antunezdesign.com Antunez orchestrates performances, which sculpt and navigate through spaces while integrating architecture, art and the landscape. Blue Mountain Landscaping, Inc. Joe Stephenson 56 Huntsman Ln Plano, IL 60545 Email: bluemountainlandscaping@gmail.com Phone: 815-341-1119 Breen Landscaping, Inc. Tom Breen PO Box 561 Wayne, IL 60184
D&M Outdoor Living Spaces Dino Mazzone PO Box 54 Western Springs, IL 60558 Email: dmoutdoorlivingspaces@gmail.com Phone: 630-417-1753 dmoutdoorliving.com Emerald Blade Landscapes Max Madara 4849 S Ellis Ave Chicago, IL 60615 Email: info@emeraldbladelandscapes.com Phone: 312-856-6688 emeraldbladelandscapes.com Emerald Blade is a full service landscaping company working in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago. Endura Environmental Marcy Heffernan 560 Ruhl Road Palatine, IL 60074 Email: marcy.barrett@ enduraenvironmental.com
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Phone: 815-690-7458 enduraenvironmental.com Stormwater inspection, maintenance and restoration; specializing in low impact design systems. goMULCH David Daley Lockport, IL 60441 Email: gomulch38@gmail.com Phone: 708-307-5687 www.weedsstink.com Landscape design, installation, and maintenance with a Weed-Free Guarantee. Heritage Landscape Design, Inc. Kyle Lewis 2728 41St Street Moline, IL 61265 Email: klewis@heritagelandscapedesign.com Phone: 563-529-4028 heritagelandscapedesign.com Horticultural Service Specialists LLC Kurt Brewer 781 S. Midlothian Rd-Suite 179 Mundelein, IL 60060 Email: hsslandscapellc@yahoo.com Phone: 847-837-9114
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K-Lee Landscaping and Lawn Maintenace Lauren VanderVelde 11641 S. Ridgeland Avenue Alsip, IL 60803 Email: lauren@k-leelandscaping.com Phone: 708-448-8809 k-leelandscaping.com
Phone: 773-892-2222 www.pradelgardendesigns.com Woman owned landscape company in Chicago thriving to serve commercial and residential urban properties creating one of a kind seasonal displays and garden oasis to increase property value and enjoyment of the great outdoors.
Knob Hill Landscape Company Landon Kirby 661 W. Camp Sangamo Rd Springfield, IL 62707 Email: landon@knobhilllandscapecom Phone: 217-638-2949 www.knobhilllandscape.com We are a design and build landscape company located in Springfield, IL. Specializing in outdoor living spaces.
Streamline Landscaping Inc. Jason Buege 211 S Oakwood Ave Willow Springs, IL 60480 Email: streamlinelandscaping1@gmail.com Phone: 708-296-4081 Streamlinelandscapinginc.com
Pradel Garden Designs Agnes Pradel Stafford 4239 N Avers Avenue Chicago, IL 60618 Email: agnes@pradelgardendesigns.com
Tadpole’s Aquascapes & Landscaping Randall Schmidt 632 Elliott Street Beecher, IL 60401 Email: tadpoles5495@gmail.com Phone: 708-935-5495 Lawn & Landscape Installation/ Maintenance Company
Total Property Management Maintenance & Engineering Services, LLC Karen Brown 26535 S. Melissa Ct Monee, IL 60449 Email: contact@tpmllcservices.com Phone: 708-534-7976 Tulip Tree Landscaping Matthew Loerop 3148 Prairie Ave Brookfield, IL 60513 Email: tuliptreelandscaping@gmail.com Phone: 708-670-9592 tuliptreelandscaping.com 5 years in business, 75% design build, 20% maintenance, 5% commercial snow. Uno Mas Landscaping Ignacio Rodriguez PO Box 681 Streamwood, IL 60107 Email: unomaslandscaping@yahoo.com Phone: 815-943-6912
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New Members — Vivid Outdoor Lighting DJ Ooykaas 13715 W Lake Shore Court Manhattan, IL 60442 Email: vividoutdoorlights@gmail.com Phone: 815-715-8980 www.vividoutdoorlighting.com Zuniga Lawn Service Inc Carlos Zuniga 2132 Natoma Ave North Chicago, IL 60064 Email: zunigalawnserviceinc@hotmail.com Phone: 847-344-9260 zunigalawnservicesinc.com Landscaping and snow removal. GOVERNMENT/NON-PROFIT Belvidere Park District Jonathan Cudzewicz 1006 W Lincoln Ave Belvidere, IL 61008 Email: jonathanc@belviderepark.org Phone: 815-670-1593
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Lake County Forest Preserve District Jordan Wagner 1899 W. Winchester Road Libertyville, IL 60048 Email: jwagner@lcfpd.org Phone: 847-968-3226 www.lcfpd.org Naperville Park District Lisette Zuniga 320 W Jackson Ave Naperville, IL 60540 Email: lzuniga@napervilleparks.org Phone: 630-864-3963 Nauvoo Facilities Management Richard Hancock 130 Yount St Nauvoo, IL 62354 Email: adam.williford@ churchofjesuschrist.org Phone: 217-440-7755
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
INDIVIDUALS Blue Stripes Design Sue Davis 1729 Oak Ave Northbrook, IL 60062 Email: davis1729@gmail.com Phone: 847-971-9152 Residential landscape design services. Bluestem Garden Design Inc. Suzanne M. Frank 3124 N. Kenmore Ave Chicago, IL 60657 Email: suzanne@bluestemgardens.com Phone: 773-213-3273 www.bluestemgardens.com Bluestem gardens specializes in Chicago residential landscape design and fourseason containers. Bluestem subcontracts installation of hardscape to a licensed and ensured landscape company. Other Bluestem services include consultation, enhancement of existing landscape and perennial garden maintenance. Carriage House Garden Design Cindy Tyley 5641 S Cass Ave Westmont, IL 60559 Email: ctyley0808@gmail.com Phone: 708-790-7029 Earth and Sun Gardening Ann Gusfield 1139 Deerfield Rd Apt 3 Deerfield, IL 60015 Email: agusfield@gmail.com Phone: 847-275-9017 Design for residential, public, commercial properties, holiday containers, native plants, pollinator gardens, wet soil gardens, curb appeal, tree and shrub pruning, patios. Inventory-Research-Design. Green Edens Horticultural Services Amy Dale 3333 Payne St Evanston, IL 60201 Email: info@greenedens.com Phone: 847-997-7748 www.greenedens.com Landscape Design and Installation
Heidekat Design, Inc. Mindy Heidekat 1013 Linden Ave. Wilmette, IL 60091 Email: mindy.heidekat@gmail.com Phone: 847-204-7547 heidekatdesign.com Landscape design, consultation, and construction coordination and oversight. Kate Refine Designs Kate Refine Naperville, IL 60540 Email: katerefinedesigns@gmail.com Phone: 630-712-4842 www.katerefinedesigns.com Kate Refine Designs is a Landscape Design company serving residential and commercial clients in the Chicagoland area. Landscape Design by Doris Doris Strom 417 Verde Drive Schaumburg, IL 60173 Email: dorisstrom@gmail.com Phone: 847-619-8727 www.designbydoris.com
Marilyn’s Dreamscapes LLC. Marilyn Musgjerd MLA,ASAL,CBG/OPM 1044 Locust Rd Wilmette, IL 60091 Email: marilynmusgjerd@gmail.com Phone: 847-507-7644 marilynsdreamscapes.com MARYJANE, INC. Maryjane Klein 9401 Monticello Evanston, IL 60203 Email: mj@mjgardensinc.com Phone: 847-971-6554 Residential landscape consulting, design & installation. North Suburbs. Melissa Netzer Design Melissa Netzer Email: msnetz@charter.net Phone: 920-960-9555 www.melissanetzerdesign.com Melissa Netzer Design is a professional softscape and hardscape design and consult resource.
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New Members — Taylor Made Landscape Design Maureen Taylor 3933 N Tripp Ave Chicago, IL 60641 Email: info@taylormld.com Phone: 773-255-2789 www.taylormadelandscapedesign.com Small design/build company operating mostly in the City of Chicago.
711 S Material Road Romeoville, IL 800-762-5738 * 815-836-0086 RocksEtc@ATT.net
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Todd Williamson 27W409 Chartwell Dr Winfield, IL 60190 Email: thw1@sbcglobal.net Phone: 630-639-8550 Operating freelance as BOLD Design for Chicago, Todd has been a Landscape Designer for many years his experience enhanced by the Horticultural and Landscape Design programs at the College of DuPage where he won the ILCA Residential design contest in 2005. Waxwing Studio, Inc. Pam Karlson 5641 N Neva Ave Chicago, IL 60631 Email: pamart321@gmail.com Phone: 312-342-9008 Freelance certified garden designer/professional gardener. SUPPLIERS
18715 Route 84 N Cordova, IL 800-736-1356 * 309-654-2261 Sales@XylemLtd.com
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Chicago Backflow Megan Demereckis 12559 S Laramie Ave Alsip, IL 60803 Email: megan@backflow.com Phone: 708-945-0337 www.chicagobackflow.com Founded in 1993, Chicago Backflow, Inc (CBI) is a family owned and operated company, specializing exclusively in backflow testing, repair and installation.
Hunter/FX Kevin Battistoni 1940 Diamond Street San Marcos, CA 92078 Email: kevin.battistoni@ hunterindustries.com Phone: 630-418-5515 The Landscape Contractor March 2020
www.hunterindustries.com Hunter Industries is a family-owned global company that provides high quality, efficient solutions for the irrigation, outdoor lighting, and custom molding industries. Lamb, Little & Co. Dennis Powers AIC, ARM, CPCU, SCLA 1101 Perimeter Drive Suite 500 Schaumburg, IL 60173 Email: dpowers@lamblittle.com Phone: 847-230-3294 www.lamblittle.com Lamb, Little & Company, an independent insurance brokerage agency, has been providing professional insurance products and services since 1947. We have built a solid reputation with both customers and insurers based on professionalism, trust, and personalized service. The Integra Group, Inc. Terry Campbell 714 Spirit 40 Park Dr Chesterfield, MO 63005 Email: terry.campbell@bosslm. com Phone: 636-534-5014 Unique Lighting Systems Keith Radatz 9 West Ellington Ct South Elgin, IL 60177 Email: keith.radatz@ uniquelighting.com Phone: 224-242-2443 uniquelighting.com V & J Landscaping and Services Peter Catalano 9110 Terminal Ave Skokie, IL 60077 Email: peter@vandjlandscape.com Phone: 847-965-4704 www.vandjparts.com V & J Landscaping and Service is your “one stop shop” for all of your outdoor gardening needs. We carry top of the line equipment and tools. We have a large selection of seed, peat moss, fertilizer, herbicide, and ice melt.
Organics Matter! The ground below is a unique mixture of organisms, all working together to create a balance within a nutrient rich environment. Our mulch varieties are refined from organic plant materials that can help foster essential root growth and capture nutrients. We’re deeply involved in cultivating plant life from its cycle of green waste into a healthy landscape. We are helping to reduce environmental impact through our methods of proper green recycling. All products manufactured by The Mulch Center are made from native plants, not demolition materials, pallets or pressure treated lumber which may contain carcinogens.
MULCH • SOIL • COMPOST • AGGREGATES • Custom soil blends • Contract grinding and screening • Pickup or delivery available
Visit mulchcenter.com or call 847-459-7200 Deerfield 21457 Milwaukee Ave Deerfield, IL 60015
Volo 27601 W Sullivan Lake Rd Volo, IL 60041
Lake Bluff 30334 N Skokie Hwy Lake Bluff, IL 60044
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Artificial Grass Supply Warehouse For Contractors 4042 S.Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL. 60653 56
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The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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Classified Ads HELP WANTED Landscape Construction Foreman We are hiring Landscape Construction Foreman to oversee all aspects of Residential or Commercial Construction. This position coordinates a crew, equipment and materials to assure that projects are completely efficiently. Requires skill in Midwest plant identification, grading, hardscape installation and reading work orders and landscape blueprints. Must have a valid ‘C’ license with a good driving record, minimum 3 years experience. English/ Spanish fluency is beneficial. Contact Rosborough Partners at 847.549-1361 or send resume to resumes@rosboroughpartners.com Residential Maintenance Account Manager (Full Time & Part Time) Responsible for a portfolio of residential maintenance clients, preparing proposals, contract renewals, ID and sell new leads, and ensure quality control is following on client sites. Establishing, building and maintaining clients relationships is key to being successful in this position. Minimum 3 years of Landscape industry experience and/or horticultural degree are required. English/Spanish fluency is a plus. Contact Rosborough Partners at 847.549-1361 OR send resume to: resumes@rosboroughpartners.com Commercial Maintenance Account Manager
HELP WANTED agement, horticulture or equivalent experience, 10+ years of experience within the industry preferred, Strong computer skills in Microsoft Office programs. For more in info visit www.jamesmartinassociates.com or call Beth at (847) 876-8052 LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT/DESIGNER Green Grass Landscape Architecture & Construction, an always growing and expanding design/build firm serving the Western suburbs since 1997, seeks to fill one position. Green Grass, Inc. focuses on providing a full spectrum of landscape services while specializing in high-end residential design and construction. LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT/DESIGNER Applicant is to have extensive knowledge of site analysis, plant and hardscape design, construction methods, grading, estimating, sales, client/project management and preparation of permit documents with construction details. Ability to work and perform in a fast-paced, detail oriented environment. Proficiency in CAD and SketchUp is required. Previous experience with Dynascape Design/Manage is a plus, but willing to train. Applicant is to have a BLA or related degree with 3 years minimum experience. We offer a competitive salary based on experience, a strong benefit package and room for growth.
James Martin Associates, Inc., (Mundelein, IL) is looking for a new Commercial Maintenance Account Manager to administer client retention, manage accounts, enhancement sales, create new contract sales, as well as business development, production layout and site overview,
Please email resume, portfolio and salary requirements to contact@greengrasslandscape.com. All inquiries are kept confidential.
Apply today: jamesmartinassociates.com/careers/
Open Positions
Residential Maintenance Account Manager
A fast growing premier Landscape Maintenance and Construction company is looking to fill the following positions:
James Martin Associates is looking for a new Residential Maintenance Account Manager to administer, new contract sales, client retention, enhancement sales, business development, production layout and site overview. This position will also ensure total client satisfaction while assisting the production department to produce the jobs in a horticulturally correct and time productive method. Apply today: jamesmartinassociates.com/careers Director of Client Relations and Sales
You may send your resume or any questions to jobs@cityescape.biz
HELP WANTED Chicago Branch Manager and Client Representative/Account Manager Premier is an industry leading full service Landscape Company looking to immediately fill the positions of Chicago Branch Manager and Client Representative/Account Manager for Lemont and Chicago. Premier is headquartered in Lemont and offers competitive pay and a wide range of benefits! Qualified candidates should submit their resume to hr@premier service.com. Join our Team today!! Landscape Architect - Entry Level Rosborough Partners is hiring entry level Landscape Architect. Using creative problem-solving techniques and resourcefulness, identify and design landscapes that both satisfy client requirements and are environmentally friendly. Requires a degree in Landscape Architecture, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Auto Cad, SketchUp and MS Office products. Must have a driver’s license with a good driving record. Contact Rosborough Partners at 847.549-1361 OR send resume to: resumes@rosboroughpartners.com Landscape Surveyor/Estimator Working with design plans, survey project sites, update base plans, prepare budgets from concept plans. Prepare estimates for construction proposals. Knowledge of Topcon Total Workstation and Magnet Software, Excel and Auto Cad are all preferred. We will train appropriate candidates. Must have a driver’s license with a good driving record. Contact Rosborough Partners at 847.549-1361 OR send resume to: resumes@rosboroughpartners.com
Account Manager- must have 3 years experience. Top pay. Start out at 60k plus perks. Field Supervisors- Must be organized and bilingual. 52k plus benefits. Fleet Manager- must know and be familiar with all types of landscape equipment. Must have fleet Management experience. 60k plus benefits. Come join a great team today.! Contact: Dan@alanhorticultural.com
James Martin Associates, Inc., is celebrating 42 years of success! We are growing and have an opportunity for a Director of Client Relations and Sales to lead our Commercial and Residential account management team. This position will be responsible for the strategic management of our account managers ensuring the retention of clients, enhancement and new contract sales goals, as well as business development for both our landscape and snow profit centers. Degree in landscape man-
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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Classified Ads HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
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: Landscape Architect / Designer/ Sales Position Role / Requirements: This person will be responsible for managing all phases of residential design projects of varying types and sizes from initial client outreach to project managing the job to completion. The position involves design, sales and project management. • B.S. Landscape Architecture or demonstrated experience. • Ability to produce high-quality creative designs, estimate and sell jobs. • Intermediate to advanced skill level in Autocad, Adobe Photoshop, and MS Office. Experience with Sketch Up, LandFX and Asset is considered a plus. • 3 plus years of experience preferred • Excellent communication and graphic skills Wingren offers competitive compensation and benefit packages. Please send resume and work samples to: mthumm@wingrenlandscape.com Join Us, We’re Hiring! Landscape Account Managers (Illinois & Wisconsin Region) Field laborers and Team Leaders (Illinois & Wisconsin Region) Submit your resume to:
HELP WANTED
Sandra@sebert.com Enter in the Subject Line: ILCA Job Post / (the position that you are seeking) Or call 630.497.1000
Proposals and renewals each year. The ideal person should have a customer services, sales and horticulture back ground. Understanding of landscape design a plus. Full time year round position – salary and commission bonus compensation package with company car allowance. We offer medical and dental insurance, employer match 401K, generous personal and vacation time program, company profit sharing plan and a great team to work with.
Several branches In the Illinois Region Bartlett . Elk Grove . Naperville . Bolingbrook . Roscoe . Marengo Wisconsin Region (Pleasant Prairie & Milwaukee) Send resumes to: Sandra@sebert.com Landscape Sales Manager We are seeking an experienced landscape maintenance sales manager to join our expanding company. Classic Landscape Ltd has been a standard in the landscape industry since 1964 and continues to grow each and every year! Responsibilities: • Generating New Maintenance Sales • New Snow Removal Sales • Review and Edit Contracts • Communicate with Maintenance Director, Field Managers and Customers
Email Resumes and interest to Gene Grant. Genegrant@grantandpower.com Junior Design Build Salesperson Wanted: Do you love being outdoors? Does the thought of helping someone with their construction project excite you? For over 40 Years - Grant & Power Landscaping is a full-service design/build firm specializing in creating amazing outdoor spaces for families to enjoy for years to come. From design to construction we are a one stop shop for our clients.
Qualifications: • General Landscape Knowledge & Basic Plant Identification • 5+ Years of Landscape Maintenance Sales Experience Required Please send resume to hire1@classiclandscapeltd.com Landscape Maintenance Sales and Account Representative Are you a people person? Do you like putting smiles on faces? We are seeking an organized and motivated person to work with our maintenance clients. We are looking for a Landscape Maintenance Sales and Account Representative - Job duties will include providing exceptional customer service, site visits, site inspections and quality control, providing our clients with additional products and services to solve their needs, maintaining and providing Landscape Management
We are looking for qualified candidates to come on board and learn our industry, learn the way we operate, and ultimately join our team as a landscape design/build sales person. Our projects range from $25,000 - $500,000+. Our process and procedures enables our sales team to be the most successful and highly compensated in the industry. When you join our company, you will have months of paid training. You will learn the industry from the ground up, learn construction best practices, learn about our design processes, and we will provide you the tools you need to be a success. Additionally we offer a full benefit package including health insurance and 401K. Characteristics of our most successful people include being excellent communicators, goal ori-
WE’RE HIRING OPEN POSITIONS & INTERNSHIPS: Commercial Maintenance Account Manager Director of Client Relations & Sales Finance Manager Landscape Services Internships Management Associates
lidlandscapes.com | (303) 440-7833
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jamesmartinassociates.com | (847) 634-1660
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
Classified Ads HELP WANTED ented, positive mindset, high achievers, and the ability to succeed in a high paced environment. Email Resumes and interest to Gene Grant. Genegrant@grantandpower.com Please visit our website at www.grantandpower. com to get to know us and see some of our 40 years of award winning jobs. Check out Instagram for a sampling of our work. Finance Manager James Martin Associates is looking for an experienced and self-motivated Finance Manager to join our dynamic team in Mundelein, IL! This position is responsible for the oversight of AR, AP, Payroll, managing monthly forecasting and financial statements, as well as annual budgeting. Please visit www.jamesmartinassociates.com/ careers to apply today or contact us at (847) 634-1660
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Prepare land and snow proposals Preform seasonal walk throughs to evaluate and offer enhancement opportunities Execute frequent site checks, with and without crews present to ensure WDS Quality Standards Present land and snow proposals Maintain relationship with key contacts. Have regular, planned contact with prospects and key clients. Attend client meetings and functions. Respond to all customer quote requests in a timely manner. Work with general manager on maintenance sales and snow opportunities as you develop them. Prepare all appropriate paperwork to ensure proper documentation and effective handoff to supervisors.
Subcontractor Manager
Please send resumes to Resumes@wdlinc.com
Landscape/ Rooftop Designer
Commercial Account Sales – Snow & Land
Chicago Specialty Gardens, a full-service design/ build firm serving Chicagoland clients since 1995, seeks a Landscape/Rooftop Designer. This position requires creative problem-solving skills to design and build urban landscapes and rooftop gardens. The ideal candidate will possess strong design, analytical, and production skills; will be highly motivated and organized; and is able to function under fast-paced conditions with accuracy.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work well with minimal supervision. Must possess an intermediate level of horticultural knowledge plus 2 - 4 years of green industry experience in sales, primarily serving commercial maintenance and snow customers.
Qualifications: Extensive knowledge of site analysis, plant & hardscape design, construction methods, estimating, project management, and construction details. BLA or related degree with 3 years minimum experience Proficiency in Auto Cad, SketchUp, Adobe Suite, and MS Office products Responsible self-starter with ability to manage time and work efficiently Must have a driver’s license with a good driving record and vehicle Please forward resume & portfolio to Ashley Joyce, Director of Design Services. Ashley@chicagogardens.com. Maintenance Account Manager Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work well with minimal supervision. Must possess an intermediate level of horticultural knowledge plus 2 - 4 years of green industry experience in sales, serving commercial/residential maintenance and snow customers. Principle Duties: Prospect for commercial/residential maintenance and snow clients:
Prospect for commercial maintenance and snow clients: Prepare land and snow proposals Present land and snow proposals Maintain relationship with key contacts. Have regular, planned contact with prospects and key clients. Attend client meetings and functions. Respond to all customer quote requests in a timely manner. Work with general manager on maintenance sales and snow opportunities as you develop them. Prepare all appropriate paperwork to ensure proper documentation and effective handoff to supervisors. Quality control during snow removal operations Please send resumes to Resumes@wdlinc.com
Subcontractor Manager-Rosborough Partners Libertyville location. Responsible for mgmt of budgeted production of the design/build dept. projects including material & labor procurement & schedule coordination. Must be able to respond quickly and creatively to last minute project changes. Requires 3 to 4 years of industry experience or a related field. Proficiency in computer software is a plus. Send resumes to resumes@rosboroughpartners.com Snow Operations Manager Rosborough Partners Libertyville location is hiring this position to manage and coordinate all phases of snow services activities, throughout the Chicagoland area, to assure equipment, schedules, teams are in place and ready mobilize when there is a snow event. Requires minimum 10 years experience in snow operations. Send resume to resumes@rosboroughpartners.com Plant Health Care Technician Rosborough Partners Libertyville location is hiring for this position. Responsible for safely handling, storing, mixing & applying pesticides according to label specifications. Requires Applicator license in Turf, Ornamental, and Mosquito Applications. Minimum Class C Driver’s License. Horticultural knowledge and industry experience are desirable. Prefer 3 – 5 years’ experience. Send resumes to resumes@rosboroughpartners.com Marketing Coordinator – Part Time Rosborough Partners Libertyville location is hiring this position to perform a range of activities related to all aspects of marketing & public relations. Will coordinate ads and promotional materials to assure consistent communication of company brand and identity. Requires degree in Marketing or Communications with minimum of 3 to 5 years experience. Send resumes to resumes@rosboroughpartners.com
Commercial Maintenance Account Manager Rosborough Partners is hiring Commercial Maintenance Account Manager in both Libertyville and West Chicago locations. Position is responsible for maintaining and building client relationships to instill confidence in our services and establish your role as their primary contact for all maintenance and enhancement services. Send resumes to resumes@rosboroughpartners.com
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
PLEASE NOTE: “HELP WANTED” AD SALES ARE LIMITED TO ILCA MEMBER COMPANIES Submit your ads online at ilca.net or call Alycia Nagy (630) 472-2851
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Classified Ads HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
FOR SALE / REAL ESTATE
PROJECT MANAGER / LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
Summer GIS/Forestry Tech
Property for Sale
Jayson DeGeeter, LLC – a botanically focused design studio specializing in bespoke residential landscapes – seeks a landscape architect or designer to serve in a project management capacity for the office located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. This contract-based position offers significant growth potential for a talented landscape architect who is ready to become a vital part of a growing studio. Compensation is based on qualifications and experience. SKILLS/EXPERIENCE: The Project Manager will be instrumental in ferrying projects from concept through completion; from site analysis through construction administration and punch lists. The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and capabilities: • Exceptional project management, finance tracking, and client service skills. • Experience with hardscape design, materials, and construction methods. • Familiarity with plant material grown in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 10. • Proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, and SketchUp. • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. • A professional, self-motivated character and a rigorous approach to design. A Bachelor’s or Masters degree in Landscape Architecture along with a minimum of 4 years experience are preferred. Please forward résumé and portfolio samples to jayson@jaysondegeeter.com. Park Specialist I Do you enjoy working outside? Are you passionate about plants? Come work with the Naperville Park District as a Park Specialist I. You will perform a variety of duties in the areas of planting, watering, mulching, and weeding. Benefits: Health insurance. Vacation, personal, and sick days. Recreation program discounts. Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday 7:00am - 3:00pm
The Naperville Park District seeks a GIS tech to inventory trees within our parks. Schedule: Up to 30 hours per week; May September. Salary: $13 hr. + DOQ. Apply online today! www.napervilleparks.org/ employment Open Positions Alan Horticulture LLC is looking to immediately fill the following positions: Top comp -Landscape Maintenance Supervisors Bi-lingual a plus. Looking for 3 years min experience. Job located on our Lemont office and our northern IL branch. -Account Manager 5 Years minimum experience. Person would be handling a portion of the companies HOA and COA book of business. Come grow with our team today. Email inquiries to: Dan@alanhorticultural.com
CLASSIFIED ADS CLOSING DATES & RATES April 2020 issue ads: March 13, 2020 May 2020 issue ads: April 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
Salary: $19.25/hr + DOQ Apply online today! www.napervilleparks.org/ employment
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The Landscape Contractor March 2020
We are retiring after 46 years serving our customers and our property is for sale. 6.5 acres and 3 buildings 1540 sq ft office/w attached 6300 sq ft shop and storage 4000 sq ft retail/storage 36 unit mini-storage which helps pay the mortgage. Well for irrigation, Bulk storage bins and polyhouses. Great location in residential area to expand or relocate. Check out google maps for sight pic. 1804 n Towanda-Barnes rd, Bloomington, IL Please attend our equipment auction April 2nd. Call 309-275-8527 or check Sullivan Auctions for listing. Contractor’s Yard, Shop, Office 580 Old Skokie Rd, Park City IL -Fenced, gated Yard Space -2 Bay Garage with 14’ clearances -8,592 SF Industrial/Office Building -Easy Access to Rt 41 and Rt 120 -Two Blocks from Lurvey Supply - Park City For more information, contact Kris Keller at 847571-5422, or KKeller@KWCommercial.com Highlight and right click, to follow link below; or, cut and paste into your browser. https://www.loopnet.com/Listing/580-Old-SkokieRd-Park-City-IL/17842127/
Advertisers 1st Choice Equipment ............................................47 Altorfer Cat ...........................................................49 Arthur Clesen .........................................................46 Bartlett Tree Experts ............................................61 Breezy Hill Nursery ................................................52 Cardno ....................................................................28 Cassidy Tire ............................................................23 Clesen Wholesale ...................................................40 Doty Nurseries LLC ..............................................4 D&S Truck Center ................................................49 Eden Stone .............................................................41 Green Glen Nursery ..............................................63 Hinsdale Nurseries, Inc. ........................................51 Homer Industries ...................................................17 Husqvarna ..............................................................45 James Martin Associates .........................................58 JKS Ventures .........................................................61 Lafarge Fox River Stone ...........................................37 Longshadow Planters ............................................13 Mariani Plants ..........................................................6 Mariani Plants .........................................................48 McGinty Bros. ......................................................53 Midwest Groundcovers ............................................2 Midwest Trading ....................................................39 Rocks Etc................................................................54 Spring Meadow Nursery .........................................29 The Mulch Center .................................................55 Turtle Creek Nursery ..............................................53 Unilock, Inc. ...........................................................64 Vermeer Midwest .................................................33 Wilson Nurseries ...................................................43 Xylem .....................................................................54
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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Hidden Gems Worth Visiting
Bird Haven Greenhouse & Conservatory by Heather Prince
Bird Haven Greenhouse & Conservatory, 225 N Gougar Road, Joliet, IL https://jolietpark.org/bird-haven-greenhouse
Tucked in a quiet corner of the
600 acres that make up Pilcher Park and Higginbotham Woods in Joliet is a magnificent Italian Renaissance conservatory. Its wedding cake ironwork is brimming with plants, fragrant with flowers and filled with the music of streams and waterfalls. An unexpected treasure, the Bird Haven Greenhouse & Conservatory is embraced by three acres of formal gardens. The complex also features the Barber & Oberwortmann Horticultural Center, a popular wedding and event venue. Fully renovated in 2004, the main glass house was built in 1929 and designed by the Lord and Burnham Company who also constructed conservatories for the New York Botanical Garden and United States Botanical Garden in Washington D.C., among many others. Additions were made in 1939 and 1962 to create four separate spaces. The original building consists of three large rooms historically used for growing annuals and perennials, a Palm House and a Cactus house containing collections that can be traced to a donation by the Smithsonian. As you step inside, you are greeted by lush black olive (Bucida buceras) trees dotted throughout that rise to tickle the glass roof panes. A quaint wood gazebo creates a convenient nook to relax and enjoy the burble of a small waterfall as it animates a limestone flagstone-lined koi pond. Curvilinear planting beds hugged by paved paths invite you to explore and are filled with saturated color from a lively mix of annuals
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and tropicals. An arching bridge lets you watch the colorful koi explore beneath your feet and benches are nestled in the corners. Look for the huge brugmansia trees that might be dripping with peach trumpet-shaped flowers. Next, the middle display house features a variety of flowers and foliage, depending on the season, surrounding a large paver space ideal for parties or activities. The Joliet Park District changes out the plants seasonally, so stop back regularly for fresh combinations. You might likely find the Park District leading a children’s class or stumble across a baby shower or luncheon. A set of doors brings you to the tropical house with soaring palm trees, huge banana plants, and a statement waterfall gushing into another koi pond. The waterfall soars from an overhead pergola and provides a unique wall of water effect in this sultry conservatory. This space is packed with artfully layered foliage spangled with splashes of floral color that are a feast for the senses. Lastly, the arid room displays examples of cacti and succulents, including those historic donations. The formal gardens are designed with a Victorian aesthetic, so expect large washes of annual flowers within sweeps of ornamental grasses anchored by specimen conifers. An outdoor gazebo and pergolas provide plenty of photo opportunities amid blossoms buzzing with pollinators and hummingbirds. Spend a couple of hours exploring this hidden gem and gather ideas for adding impact and drama to your client spaces. Bird Haven is open year round 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Admission: FREE
The Landscape Contractor March 2020
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