Your Landscape Partner: Thoughts, ideas, experiences, and expertise from the field…
Immigrants and the Nursery Business
The U.S. nursery industry, a crucial part of our agriculture sector, owes much of its origins and ongoing success to the work, dedication, and expertise of immigrants. While Italian immigrants are one prominent example, workers from Mexico, Central America, Asia, and beyond have all contributed to the growth and sustainability of this industry, shaping American landscapes in countless ways. This post looks at how immigrant labor shaped the U.S. nursery industry, how the industry has evolved over time, and why these contributions are still so important today.
Fallen Leaves Are Valuable
As leaves blanket our lawns each fall, the traditional leaf-raking and leaf-blowing routine begins for many homeowners and landscapers. But there’s a growing movement toward alternatives that are both easier on you and better for the environment. Instead of bagging and disposing leaves or hauling them off to the yard waste dump, some landscapers and gardeners are choosing to mulch them or use them in garden beds. Here’s why this method of "working with the leaves" is catching on and how you can make it part of your fall maintenance routine.
Seasonal Needle Drop
As landscape contractors, we often field concerned calls from clients when their evergreens begin dropping needles in late summer or early fall. While it’s understandable for homeowners to worry about potential disease or environmental stress, seasonal needle drop is actually a normal part of an evergreen’s lifecycle. Let’s break down what’s happening and how to communicate to your clients that this is a natural process.
Outdoor Saunas
There’s a hot new trend making its way into backyards everywhere—wood-fired outdoor saunas. Whether you’re a landscape contractor looking to offer something unique or a homeowner hoping to create your own relaxation space, saunas are a great way to add a touch of luxury. Best of all, companies like North Shore Sauna make it easier than ever with portable tent saunas that offer all the benefits of a traditional sauna, without the headache and expense of permanent construction or permits.
RoundUp - The Full Picture
Few products have had as significant an impact on the nursery industry as RoundUp. Introduced in the 1970s, it quickly became a go-to tool for weed control in agriculture and nurseries. However, what was once hailed as a breakthrough has become a subject of controversy in recent years. In this blog, we’ll explore how RoundUp transformed the nursery business, the challenges it presents today, and what the future may hold for this once-revolutionary product.
Soil Microbes
Soil may seem like a simple mix of dirt, rocks, and organic matter, but beneath the surface, it's teeming with life. Soil microbes are tiny organisms that play an enormous role in maintaining soil health and supporting the growth of landscape plants. In fact, they are some of the most important contributors to the vitality of any garden or landscape. But what exactly are these microbes, and how do they help plants thrive? Let’s take a closer look.
When Trees Can Be Dangerous
Have you ever looked at a tree and wondered if it could pose a risk to your home or property? Trees offer shade, beauty, and environmental benefits, but sometimes they can also become hazards. A hazard tree is any tree that poses a significant risk to people or property due to its condition or location. Arborists are trained to assess these trees and determine the best course of action, including whether a tree should be removed. But what exactly goes into that assessment, and how do they prioritize which trees need to be addressed first?
Top Ways To Lose An Employee
Attracting and retaining top talent is essential to the success of any business, but many employers unknowingly engage in behaviors that push valuable employees away. In this post, we’ll explore the top reasons employees leave and share actionable insights on how to prevent these common mistakes. By fostering a positive work environment, you can increase employee loyalty, engagement, and retention.
Watering Tools
Proper watering is crucial for healthy plant growth, especially during hot summer months or when establishing new plantings. Homeowners and landscapers alike can benefit from a variety of specialized tools designed to deliver water efficiently and effectively. In this blog, we'll explore some essential watering tools, including soaker rings, water bags, root probes, and more, discussing their uses, benefits, and how they can help you achieve a thriving landscape.
Heptacodium - Underused Ornamental
When it comes to selecting plants that offer year-round interest, Heptacodium miconioides, commonly known as seven-son flower, stands out as a unique and underutilized option. As landscape contractors, you’re always on the lookout for plants that not only meet aesthetic needs but also thrive in varied conditions. Heptacodium fits the bill perfectly. This blog will discuss why this plant is so special, its cultural requirements, and how to best design it into your landscapes.
The Power of Prompt Billing
In the fast-paced world of landscape contracting, where projects can range from simple lawn maintenance to complex design and installation, staying on top of finances is crucial. One key aspect of maintaining a healthy cash flow and sustaining your business is prompt billing. While it might seem like an administrative task that can be put off, delaying invoicing can have significant consequences for your business. Prompt billing should be a top priority for every landscape contractor.
Canker Disease
Canker is a common but serious tree disease caused by various fungi and bacteria, which can cause significant damage if left untreated. Knowing how to identify, prevent, and properly treat canker is essential for maintaining the health and beauty of your trees. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you tackle this issue.
All About Burlap
Burlap, also known as hessian in some parts of the world, is a versatile and eco-friendly fabric with a wide range of applications. In the tree nursery industry, burlap plays a crucial role, especially in the process of digging and transporting field-grown balled and burlapped (B&B) plants. In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins, production, and essential uses of burlap in the nursery industry.
Controlling Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are unwelcome guests in any outdoor space, turning pleasant evenings into itchy, irritating experiences. Not only are their bites annoying, but they can also transmit diseases like West Nile virus and Zika virus. Fortunately, there are several measures you can take to prevent mosquitoes from infesting your landscape. In this blog, we'll explore effective strategies for keeping mosquitoes at bay and creating a more enjoyable outdoor environment.
Millennium Park
Millennium Park, one of Chicago’s crown jewels, is not only a haven for tourists and locals alike but also a masterclass in landscape architecture and urban design. For landscape contractors, this iconic park offers a wealth of inspiration and practical insights into creating vibrant, multifunctional public spaces. Let’s look at the design, execution, and maintenance practices that make Millennium Park a standout example in the field of landscape contracting.
Container vs B&B
When planning a landscaping project, one of the key decisions you’ll face is choosing between balled & burlapped (BB) plants and container-grown plants. Both options offer distinct advantages and drawbacks depending on your specific needs and site conditions. Here’s a closer look at each method to help you make an informed choice.
Fertilizer Basics
Fertilizing your lawn and garden can transform a lackluster landscape into a thriving, lush paradise. However, understanding the types of fertilizers, how to read labels, and the best practices for application can be daunting. I’ll explain the essentials to help you make the most informed decisions for your green space.
Planting Techniques for Blocking Noise
As urban areas continue to expand, so does the issue of noise pollution, especially from traffic and roads. This persistent noise can significantly affect the quality of life for residents and the appeal of properties. For landscape contractors and designers, integrating natural sound barriers into designs is a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution. Among the various plant choices, evergreens stand out as an exceptional option for creating effective sound barriers. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to use plants, particularly evergreens, to mitigate noise pollution.
Don’t Use These 9 Sales Tactics
In the competitive world of home improvement services the role of a salesperson is crucial. As a landscape contractor, ensuring your sales tactics are above board not only builds trust but also fosters long-term customer relationships. However, some common sales tactics can do more harm than good. Here are some key strategies to avoid when selling your services.
Help With Creeping Charlie
As a landscaper, few challenges test my patience and perseverance as much as battling Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea). Known also as ground ivy, this invasive perennial weed is notorious for its rapid spread and tenacity in landscape beds and turf grass alike. In this blog post, I'll share my personal journey in combating Creeping Charlie and combine it with expert strategies to provide a comprehensive guide on how to manage this relentless invader.
