January 2012

An opportunity for prosperity

As your incoming president, I wish to start my very first column with encouraging news regarding the potential for a prosperous and profitable year in 2012. Despite everything else, the good news is that in tough times, our association is here to support you with meaningful programs.

LO welcomes Charal as new president

For the next two years Phil Charal will accept the role of president of Landscape Ontario board of directors.

IPM Symposium covers trees and turf

Landscape Ontario’s IPM Symposium on Mon., Jan. 9 at the Toronto Congress Centre, Cohen Ballroom, is more relevant than ever.

Exciting new home for GreenTrade Expo

The excitement and momentum is growing for the Ottawa Chapter’s 19th Annual GreenTrade Expo, with exhibitors and visitors alike showing interest by signing up earlier than normal for the Feb. 15 show.

Promote your community projects through LO

LO executive director Tony DiGiovanni CLT recently asked members to reveal the great causes and projects their company has been involved with over the past year or two.

Native Plant Source greens K-W

Native Plant Source of Kitchener was recognized recently for its generous contribution to the newly constructed Living Roof at the University of Waterloo Environmental Studies Building.

Greentario: Strong Hamilton community supporter

Award-winning LO member Greentario of Hamilton has supported a number of great causes in its community.

Yates Custom Lawn Sprinklers irrigates kids hospital

“The past two years we have contributed an installed irrigation system to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Lottery Dream Home in Ottawa."

Allens busy beyond their business

Bob and Ruby Allen of RW Allen Horticultural Services in St. Thomas have been involved in Arbor Week for many years.

Growers’ Short Course moving back to Guelph

The annual LO Growers' Group Short Course has a new home this year. The Feb. 8 event will take place at Royal Canadian Legion, 57 Watson Parkway South, in Guelph.

In memoriam: Bill Schreiber

Bill Schreiber died on Dec. 8, 2011 at the Milton District Hospital.

Sean James receives community honour

Sean James of Fern Ridge Landscaping in Milton received the Community Partner of the Year Award from Halton Ecopartners.

New names added to industry certified list

A total of 38 individuals have their names added to the list of industry certified, after they completed the qualification requirements in 2011.

Waterloo helps KidsAbility

The Waterloo Chapter had a very successful golf tournament this past summer, and from that event, it was able to share proceeds with a number of charities.

Tumber wins U.S. award

A monthly U.S. publication dedicated to the pool and spa industry recently recognized Tumber and Associates of Orangeville, Ont.

Gerwin Bouman believes in value of LO association work

President of Stam Nurseries in Burgessville, Gerwin Bouman’s volunteer work with Landscape Ontario began in 2006 when he went on the annual growers’ tour.

LO members restore green to Toronto’s St. James Park

Over 150 volunteers from the landscaping industry descended upon the park for two days to restore the original beauty to the three hectare site.

Plantsman Terry McGlade reflects on 30 years of change

Terry McGlade has been building beautiful gardens in Toronto for nearly 30 years.

Canada Blooms garden will stimulate senses

Beauty and creativity, along with some education, will stimulate all five senses of those visiting this year’s Green for Life garden at Canada Blooms.

Trial favourites listed by garden manager

2012 promises a bright selection of new and reliable bedding plants and perennials to try out. Here are a few suggestions of plants worth trying in the new year.

New opportunities at owners-only workshops

When you own a landscape company, you’re a business-person first and a landscaper second, although it may not always seem that way.

St. James Park extreme makeover

I have just been through an amazing and inspiring experience. It’s something I will not soon forget.

How did we hook you?

Lately there has been a lot of interest in how companies become members of LO.

Past president give thanks

Tom Intven extends sincere appreciation and congratulations to all those involved with the St. James Park restoration project.

Bill 119 compliance at least a year away

A number of questions have been raised about changes to Bill 119, which extends the scope of mandatory workers compensation insurance to include executive officers, partners, and independent operators.

Free green industry budgeting software

JPL Consulting is offering all members of Landscape Ontario its proprietary software, JPL Budgeting for Success 3000 Lite Version.

Ontario One Call Act

At the Provincial Legislature at Queen’s Park on Dec. 2, the Ontario One Call Act, or Bill 8, received all party support on second reading.

Weed re-growth with Fiesta herbicide

When Fiesta received Canadian registration in spring of 2010, there was not a lot of information available on its efficacy on common Ontario lawn weeds.

City of Ottawa takes leadership role in salt reduction

The City of Ottawa hosted a Smart about Salt summit on Nov. 29 to foster greater public and private partnerships in promoting efficient salt use in the city.

Planning for a prosperous 2012

It is the time of year that many of us take time to reflect on the good, the bad and the not-so-good within our business over the past year.

Practical hints on telling our story

Tips for how to market your company when talking with local media.