Gardening in Our Communities and Schools

Gardening in Our Communities and Schools

By: Yvonne Savio

Great things happen when a community or school garden gets started. Neighbors and passers-by exclaim joy and relief that "something's finally happening" to a blighted or underused plot of land. Order comes out of chaos. Weeds are displaced by fragrant and rich-brown, newly turned soil. Plots of tiny plants in neat rows or groupings take the place of the jumble of wild things. Colorful flowering vines and roses climb unattractive chain-link fencing.

Camaraderie
From inside the fence, even more wonderful changes are happening. Individual, isolated gardeners share their techniques and concerns and joys, learning from one another. Exhilaration from exercise and fresh air and jokes floating across garden pathways invigorate everyone's spirits. Everyday frustrations evaporate or are worked out subconsciously as the soil is tilled, amendments incorporated, pests hand-plucked, and seedlings nurtured. Harvest parties become potlucks of different cultures and cooking flavors. Excess broccoli or lettuce or zucchini is put to use in a multitude of recipes, literally from appetizer to dessert, all shared.

Lessons Learned
In school gardens, math is used in counting seeds, forming raised beds, and planting seedlings. Science is part of caterpillar-to-butterfly transformation, geography is introduced in microclimates and soil texture. Social sciences and communication are involved in communal decisions about what to plant, where, and dealing with problems. Language is involved in learning different terms for plants and insects. Ethnic interaction results from growing different ethnic crops and preparing and tasting potluck dishes.

Exercise is a benefit of digging and bending and hauling. Art is explored in the scarecrows built and posters painted. Poetry and personal self-expression is explored in the journals written and observations made. People talk, people listen. They observe what's happening in their world, and they participate in its development. They determine its future by creating its present. What better way to "grow" our current and upcoming generations of citizen gardeners!

Growing Bulb Onions

Feed bulb onions with a 10-10-10 fertilizer to encourage bulbing. Sets that send up seed stalks instead of forming large bulbs were perhaps not sufficiently dormant when they were planted, or they were larger than dime-size and going to bolt soon anyway. To delay bolting, snap off the stalk at the base.

Pluck Strawberry Blooms

Pluck off strawberry blossoms through May, or whenever the warm weather has settled in for good, to concentrate the plant's first real burst of fruiting energy into large, sweet berries rather than small tart ones. Unless, of course, you're desperately waiting for that very first berry, even if it is tart.

Start Herbs From Seed

Herbs to start from seed include anise, basil, chervil, chives, cilantro (coriander), dill, fennel, lavender, marjoram, oregano, parsley, and savory. Transplant mint, rosemary, sage, tarragon, and thyme (these don't come true from seed). Herbs make great landscaping plants, as well. Chives add attractive, spear-like foliage among blooming plants. Rosemary and wooly thyme make attractive, drought-tolerant, trouble-free ground covers.

Plant Citrus and Avocado Trees

Citrus and avocado trees do best when they're planted from late this month through May, as the weather warms up. For the best protection from cold weather and frost, choose a southwest exposure that's protected from the wind. Plant them on a mound or in a raised bed so water drains away from the roots. Rub suckers off trunks as they appear. Tape together or remove broken branches. Paint trunks and large limbs with a matte-finish, off-white interior latex paint mixed half and half with water to prevent sunscald.

Plant Summer-Blooming Bulbs

Plant summer-blooming bulbs, corms, and tubers, including acidanthera, agapanthus, tuberous begonias, caladiums, calla lilies, canna lilies, dahlias, gladiolus, hemerocallis, tuberous iris, ixias, tigridias, tuberoses, and watsonias. Repeat plantings through May for continuous bloom through the summer. If you still have some unplanted spring-blooming bulbs that are firm and solid, plant them immediately in rich soil. They'll probably not bloom this year, but they'll develop further and bloom next year. If not planted, they'll shrivel away to nothing. These leftover bulbs also can be potted up for forcing. Place them in the refrigerator for eight to ten weeks, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. They should bloom after another three weeks in a brightly lit area.

Web Finds - Common Ground Garden Program

The University of California Cooperative Extension Los Angeles County Common Ground Garden Program has two online publications to help people develop thriving community and school gardens. Other articles include monthly garden tips.

Books - A Guide for Starting Children's Gardens

Children's Gardens: A Field Guide for Teachers, Parents, and Volunteers is a book that helps teach all the academic subjects through hands-on activities in the garden. It's published by the University of California Cooperative Extension Los Angeles County Common Ground Garden Program, which has 20 years of experience establishing gardens on school campuses. It covers gardening basics, specific instructional activities, and lots of resources to help make school gardening easy, even for the non-gardener. The book costs $12 plus $3.50 shipping. To order, call (323) 260-3348, fax (323) 881-0067, e-mail gjmitche@ucdavis.edu, or visit: http://celosangeles.ucdavis.edu/garden/

Content provided by the National Gardening Association

When and how do we prune our new peach tree?

A reader writes:

When and how do we prune our new peach tree?

J.B., FL

Since peach wood is very sensitive to cold damage, you should do your
pruning in the spring, as close to bloom time as possible. Peach trees
produce best when trained to an open center, meaning that you want to
end up with 3-4 main side branches ("scaffold branches"), avoiding a
central leader trunk.

If your tree has had no previous pruning, head it back to 30-36" tall.
Scaffold branches should be at least 20" off the ground and form a 45
degree angle with the trunk. If the tree has good candidates for
scaffold branches, cut them back to 4-5". They should have at least a
couple of buds each, which will branch out into fruiting limbs. You
should have all the scaffold branches chosen and pruned appropriately
by the beginning of the spring after planting. At that time, remove all
other branches and any root suckers (sprouts emerging from the roots).

If during the second summer you notice the scaffolds bending to a wider
than 45 degree angle, you'll need to remove some wood, lessening the
weight on the branch. It's the only summer pruning you should have to
do. By the fourth year, the tree should be bearing, and your pruning
should be reduced to removing dead/weak/crossing/damaged branches, with
the goal of keeping the center open, and the lateral branches within
easy picking height. Older, slower growing trees need even less
pruning--head back lateral branches that have grown less than 8" in a
year to the next outward-branched lateral limb.

Your extension service or local library will likely have some books or
other information.

Personnel Turnover and Leadership Thinking

Personnel Turnover and Leadership Thinking
by Dale Collie

Some people tell me that as many as 75%  of all
employees are actually looking for or thinking
about finding a new job because they are fed up
with their workplace stress.

No matter what business you're in, this turnover
is  going to impact your bottom line.  As people
lose  interest in their current employment, their
productivity takes a dive,  absenteeism climbs,
and the company takes it on the chin.

Most of these people are smart enough to avoid
getting fired, but they truly don't care about
the old company anymore.  They are searching  for
a way to make a change.

It might take awhile, but your company is going
to have to pay the cost of recruiting and training
new people, and your productivity is going to
suffer again, until the new people are fully  on
the job and fully prepared.

This issue caused less concern in the past because
staffing levels were adequate for the work being
done. Remaining staff could take on some extra
work while the company scouted around for new
employees. But those days are gone - gone with
lean manufacturing and flat management  structure.

Here are 5 things you can do to avoid the
extraordinary cost of personnel turnover.

1.  Find out what employees like about your
company and do more of it.

2.  Find out what they don't like about your
company and change it.

3.  Find out what employees like about your
competition and see if that will work in your
company.  We're not talking about product
competition; we're focused on what the job
market has to offer.

4.  Find out what's causing all the stress in your
company and overcome it with solid leadership and
communications strategies.

5.  Find out about employee family concerns and
other external stressors.  Provide seminars,
training, and coaching to help people overcome
these stressors.

A few old-thinking managers/leaders are still
around, those who think that the paycheck and
annual vacation are all we owe employees.  The
basic compensation and fringe benefits are not
enough any more, and these geezers will find
themselves in trouble as the new breed walks in
with a good understanding of what it takes to
control stress and maximize productivity.

Get a free article about the top ten workplace
stressors and what to do about them by sending
email to this email - Click the link:
MailTo:TopTenStressors@CourageBuilders.com

Copyright 2005 (Dale Collie)

*************

Dale Collie (MailTo:collie@couragebuilders.com)
speaker, author, and former US Army Ranger,
CEO,and professor at West Point.  Selected by
"Fast Company" as one of America's Fast 50
innovative leaders.  Author of "Frontline
Leadership: From War Room to Boardroom," and
"Winning Under Fire: Turn Stress into Success the
US Army Way." (McGraw-Hill) Free newsletter  upon
request:
MailTo:subscribe-956606571@ezinedirector.net

Transforming Problems into Sales

Transforming Problems into Sales:
How to sell more by focusing on client problems

By Jeremy Cohen

My silent fish tank was no more. Enough water had evaporated
to make the filter gurgle. It was highly annoying and I knew
I wouldn't be at ease until it was silent again. 

I filled the tank.

Did I fill it to satisfy a want or a need? Does it matter?
Probably not. 

The gurgling tank was an unacceptable problem that required
a solution: more water. I was able to solve the problem on
my own. If it had turned out that my fish tank gurgled
because my filter was broken I would have needed a new
filter. 

Filters Don't Flow from My Tap
Where would I get a filter? How would I decide where to shop
first? 

There is a pet store chain in New York City that has been
advertising its business for decades. When I first moved to
my current neighborhood I noticed one of their stores a
couple of blocks from my home. I would go there for my new
filter without hesitation. I know that they have fish tank
filters, exactly what I'd need to solve my problem. 

Do your prospects know you have exactly what they need to
solve their problems? 

To sell more you must demonstrate to more prospects that you
have just what they want. There are two ways you can work
toward this goal:

      Market to a larger audience
      Improve your marketing material to attract more attention

It makes sense to do both. You can sell more by using the
same marketing material to market to a larger, targeted
audience. You can also increase sales by enhancing your
marketing material to be noticed by more of the prospects
you currently target. 

Marketing to a larger audience is simple but can be quite
expensive and improving your marketing material may seem
like a daunting task. You can make this second task easier
by knowing how to approach it. 

Help Your Prospects Focus on You
When your prospects encounter your marketing material they
should experience the familiar feeling of looking in a
mirror. 

Creating a sense of familiarity for your prospects when they
encounter your marketing material eliminates a barrier to
making a sale. People are more likely to buy from someone
with whom they feel familiar. When we see ourselves in a
mirror we see a clear and familiar image. 

You can create a sense of familiarity for your prospects by
focusing your marketing material around their problems. 

Problems tend to strike an emotional chord within each of
us. When we have emotional reactions we tend to become more
alert to our surroundings. You can take advantage of this
reaction by including client problems in your marketing
material. You will increase your chance of being noticed,
remembered and making a sale by presenting your marketing
material to someone who has recently become more alert. 
     
      What problems do your clients have?
      What problems do you solve?

Being noticed more often is good. You will sell more.
However, you will sell even more if a greater percentage of
the people who notice and read your marketing material take
the next step and contact you. 

To be contacted by more prospects your marketing material
must attract attention and also clearly demonstrate
believable value. 

      What value do you provide?
      Are your offers believable or too good to be true?
      How can you integrate client problems and the value you
      provide into your marketing material? 

The answer is to use a marketing message. A marketing
message is a highly specific set of words you can use to
attract and demonstrate value to your prospects. 

With a marketing message focused around client problems you
will sell more with less effort. 

What's your marketing message?

Copyright 2005, Better Marketing Results and Jeremy Cohen

RESOURCE BOX
The author, Jeremy Cohen, helps small business owners and
professional service providers attract more clients, grow
their business and be more successful with his marketing guides
and coaching service.
Get his free marketing guide: Jumpstart Marketing:
More Profits, Clients and Success at:
http://www.bettermarketingresults.com/y.asp

Groundcover: great-looking greenery, year 'round

The Plant Man
by Steve Jones
www.landsteward.org

Groundcover: great-looking greenery, year 'round

Groundcover is an excellent alternative to a high-maintenance lawn and
can enhance the look of your landscape beautifully while reducing the
amount of sweat-equity you need to invest.

Right now would be a very good time to be planting most types of
groundcover, and today I'll have some suggestions for groundcover
varieties that would look great and thrive in your particular soil and
sun conditions.

In this column last time, I discussed the best ways to prepare your
soil for planting groundcover and how to 'beat the weeds' while you're
at it. If you missed that column, you can find it archived at my Web
site www.landsteward.org when you click on 'the Plant Man' header.

So... your soil is properly prepped and is weed free. What should you
plant' Two major considerations will be the amount of sunlight your
planting area will be exposed to and whether or not you want year-round
(evergreen) groundcover. First, let's think about plants that enjoy
basking in full sun to light shade conditions.

Dragon's Blood - Red Sedum.
Here's a groundcover that seems to turn as red as you would if you laid
out in the sun all summer! The more sun it gets, the more intense the
color of its flowers and foliage. Dragon's Blood grows to about 3" to
8" high and spreads thickly. It's tolerant of poor, dry soil and
variations in temperature.

Creeping Phlox.
Also known as Phlox subulata, nothing spreads as effectively as Phlox.
I think it looks beautiful as an edging to a pathway and spilling over
a rock garden. There are so many varieties, it can be hard to choose,
but that's a good problem to have. If you can't decide on a single
variety, mix and match a few. You can find red, pink, white, emerald
blue and even candy-stripe varieties! Even when not in bloom, Phlox
has a vigorous green foliage that is very attractive.

Phlox does need a good supply of nutrients. In early spring, sprinkle a
9-12-12 time release fertilizer around the young plants and add mulch.
About 2 weeks after the blooms have appeared, pull back the mulch,
fertilize again and replace the mulch.

Looking for a groundcover that'll work in a more shaded area? Think
about this...

Hosta.
There are several varieties of hostas out there, but there are a couple
that are a little out of the ordinary. Look for one known as
'Patriot,' a variegated plant with bright white edges to its vivid
green leaves. It will grow to about 18" - 22" high and 36" wide. It
will need at least a half a day of shade, so it's ideal for the shadier
spots in your landscape, and can tolerate a wide variety of soil types,
as well as heat, cold and humidity.

Another hosta variety that I like is 'Sum and Substance.' The
deeply-veined, bright chartreuse leaves really brighten up a shaded
area. It's very showy from early spring to late fall and is quite
tolerant of moist locations. If you'd like to add an unusual splash of
color to your hosta patch, look for a variety called 'Blue Vision.'

Evergreen groundcover, of course, provides year-round coverage. How
about...

Trailing periwinkle.
Periwinkle (Vinca minor) is a dense and fast-growing evergreen
groundcover that works equally well in sun, shade or semi-shaded areas.
It has dark green, oval leaves and small, pretty blue flowers in early
spring. A good choice for slight slopes and around trees.

Carpet Bugle.
Known to horticulturists as Ajuga reptans, this evergreen produces a
nice horizontal spread and a height of about 4" - 6" with 8" - 10"
spikes of purple blooms in the spring.

Pachysandra.
Last but not least, pachysandra... the 'green carpet' that retains its
dense beauty even in quite adverse conditions! It's ideal for steep
slopes and terraces where it would be dangerous to try to mow grass,
too. Pachysandra looks elegant in shaded courtyards and alongside
walkways.

There are so many options when it comes to groundcover, and these are
intended simply as idea-starters. Drop me an e-mail with a few details
such as sun and soil conditions, your location, and the look you wish
to achieve and I'll try to come up with some ground-breaking (and
covering) solutions!

The Plant Man is here to help. Send your questions about trees, shrubs
and landscaping to steve@landsteward.org and for resources and
additional information, or to subscribe to Steve's free e-mailed
newsletter, visit www.landsteward.org

All About Strawberry Pots

All About Strawberry Pots
By Monica Resinger

Strawberry pots are the pots that are shaped like an urn and have
`pockets'
up and down the sides of the pot. They are made especially for growing
strawberries and are easy and convenient. You can also grow herbs,
flowers or other
plants in them. Plants that have a hanging habit put the pockets of
strawberry
pots to good use. Strawberries do have a hanging habit and don't mind
being
cramped because their roots are shallow so are an excellent choice for
growing in
a strawberry pot.

If planting with other plants than strawberries, be sure to check their
growing requirements before planting to be sure they are compatible.
You'll need to
group plants that require about the same amount of sun, water, type of
soil
and amount of fertilizer.

The pots are made of different materials, some plastic, some terra
cotta, and
some ceramic. Each material has its` pros and cons. With plastic, the
pot is
lightweight and will have a chance of toppling over in the wind but it
is the
least expensive. Since terra cotta is porous, it sucks up the moisture
in the
soil and therefore has to be watered more often, but, terra cotta is
attractive. Ceramic may be the best way to go because it is heavy,
retains water and is
attractive, but you'll probably be paying a little more. When you
purchase
your pot, be sure it has holes in the bottom for drainage. This will
ensure that
your plants' roots won't be sitting in water and rotting.

When purchasing plants for the pot, choose one plant for each `pocket'
and
three or four for the top. When potting, use any all-purpose potting
soil and,
if you wish, mix in a slow-release fertilizer. If you don't use the
slow-release fertilizer, keep in mind that you will need to fertilize
your plants some
other way after planting. Plants in pots need more feeding than ones
in the
ground because each watering leaches nutrients from the potting soil.

Begin planting by putting the potting soil in the pot until you reach
the
first `pocket' level. At this point, plant a strawberry or other plant
in that
`pocket'. Continue all the way to about 3-4 inches from the top level
and plant
the three or four plants there and fill in with potting soil. Water
well.

If planted with strawberries, set the planted pots in full sun on your
patio
or in your yard. Check to see if the soil is dry daily by poking your
finger
in the top inch of soil. If it is dry, then it's time to water.

Strawberry pots can be a fun way to garden. Consider planting themed
gardens
in them such as all blue flowers or Italian seasoning herbs. Just
remember
it's very important to make sure the chosen plants are compatible and
will like
growing in the cramped quarters of a strawberry pot. Have fun!

Copyright ©, 2000, Monica Resinger

About the Author:  Monica Resinger is the creator of 'Homemaker's
Journal
E-Publications' where you will find many fun and informative home and
garden
related e-books, tip sheets and how to sign up for her FREE home and
garden
newsletter!  Click here to visit:  http://homemakersjournal.com/

Roundup Extended Control

I read this on another list and thought it would be of interest. I've
used Round-up for years, but never for residual control. Read on...

From the Landscape_Pro_Tips list:

I wonder if any of our Landscapers or professional licensed
applicators have
seen the NEW Roundup Extended Control and looked at the formulation? I
wonder if they have added another active ingredient for the extended
control, or simply increased the strength of the mix?

I've been seeing TV ads for this product here in Michigan for about a
week,
yet it is not stocked in any of our stores. In fact, the manager of our
Lowes looked it up and it is not even on his list of products that he
could
order for his store.

I'm still working on a gallon of concentrate from 2 years ago, but my
chemical supply house does not have it in any commercial form. It
appears to
be packaged in a 1.33 gallon ready to spray retail package for
homeowners.

The new product sounds like it is something like Ortho's Triox, which
has
been around for at least 30 years that I can recall.

I'm surprised that the Roundup people haven't come up with a product
like
this earlier. I think I've been using Roundup for about 20 years now.

The Roundup product has been touted as safe and becoming inert when it
comes
in contact with the earth or ground. However, if you are a licensed
applicator and use the concentrate, maybe you know or have found out
that if
you spray the concentrate at 2x or 3x the recommended rate in water,
that
you do get a residual killing effect in the soil that lasts for 2-4
months.
I've been spraying gravel or stone driveways and similar surfaces for
years
with Roundup concentrate at 3x the recommended dilution rate and
getting
excellent residual control. It kills growing vegetation and prevents
new
weed seeds from sprouting for several months. It's been cheaper than
Triox
type products, but you must be careful of runoff around the perimeter
of the
area you spray. This is one of those "do not try this yourself things".

rf

Mix Perennials into Your Garden for Staying Power

Mix Perennials into Your Garden for Staying Power

Perennial plants and flowers stay around for more than just one
gardening season. Some of them bloom again for only about 3 years,
while others will continue to bloom for many years to come.

Now sometimes the first year you plant a perennial, you won't be
overly impressed. You see, that first year the plants need to get used
to the new environment. Some of them will produce blooms that first
year, but some of them won't do a thing until at least the second
year. And that's when you start seeing progress too. The perennial
plants and flowers start really filling out and taking hold in the
second year. And by the third year, they're so well established you'll
look like a gardening pro.

When planting perennials - as with any plant, flower, shrub, bush or
tree - you need to choose a location for the plant based on soil
quality, water availability, and sunlight. Once you have the location
chosen, plant your perennials with plenty of room for them to grow
over the years. If you put them too closely together in the beginning,
you'll find yourself moving them frequently as time goes by.

Planting them with room to grow will make your perennial garden look
sparse though, so you may be unhappy with it after you're done. One
way to help fill in the bare spots, and add some quick color, would be
to scatter annuals in between.

Annual plants and flowers tend to grow and bloom for just one
gardening season. They grow quickly though, and some of them flower
for months on end. This makes them very popular with many gardeners.

Since annuals don't usually come back on their own in the next season,
you won't have to worry about crowding out your budding perennial
plants. So that first year when they look straggly and sparse, mix in
some annuals to liven things up. Then when the second year comes
along, if you still have a few bare spots: plant a few more annuals.
You'll probably need less this second year of course, because the
perennials have started to flourish. By the third year, the perennials
should be doing quite well on their own... so you won't even have room
to plant annuals in your perennial garden bed!

Popular perennial plants and flowers include: Calla Lilies, Coral
Bells, Hibiscus, and Hosta.

© 2005, Kathy Burns-Millyard, The Garden Source Network -
http://www.garden-source.com - A premier online publication featuring
gardening articles, tips, advice, resources, shopping and supplies.
This article may be freely published on any website, as long as the
author, copyright, website address and link, and this notice are left
intact.

I planted some Lantana I was told that they would come back...

From a ProGardenBiz Reader:

Hello All,

Last year I planted some Lantana I was told that they would come back,
well
now its March and still no sign of life.  I have cut them all back.  My
question is how long do I wait? 

PS.  I live in the Dallas area

Thanks in Advance,

Make a comment if you can help.

The Plant Man
by Steve Jones
www.landsteward.org

Groundcover: Careful prep yields great results

Low maintenance! That's the clarion call I hear frequently from readers who contact me for ideas that will enhance their landscape without devouring hours of their valuable time.

There's no doubt that a lush, green lawn can demand a lot of attention, either from you or a contract lawn service. More and more homeowners are turning to an alternative for at least part of their landscape: groundcovers.

Let me say that groundcovers arent just for the terminally lazy. There are some very strong benefits over and above saving time and labor.

Safety: Attempting to mow grass on a slope (particularly when using a ride-on mower) can be dangerous or even fatal. It isnt worth dying for! Groundcover is (almost) a set it and forget it solution.

Problem areas: There are some places where regular grass just refuses to grow. But certain groundcovers thrive in awkward conditions such as shade, very moist or very dry environments. Why fight Nature If a groundcover will live happily where grass simply dies, then go for it.

Landscape design: Use groundcovers to connect different parts of your landscape, either in straight lines or winding bands... or to frame a lawn for a separate, formal look.

Protecting tree roots: Groundcover planted around shallow-rooted trees can protect the roots from mower damage and can shade the soil to prevent it from drying out too rapidly. (Choose shallow-rooted groundcover plants to avoid competing with the tree roots.)

If you are planning to plant some groundcover this season, I have three words of advice about soil preparation: Do It Now!

Why Because when it comes down to soil, its you or the weeds. And the weeds are probably tougher. Prep the soil and get the weeds out now before they have the chance to spread like... well, like weeds. I promise it will save you a lot of work later.

Depending on the area, you might want to rent a rotary tiller to turn the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches in open sites. In areas around trees, prepare the soil only to a depth of 2 to 3 inches to prevent disturbing the tree roots. As you know, as a general rule I prefer organic solutions to chemical ones. However, if youre preparing an open area that is heavily weeded, you might need to treat the site with a pre-emergence herbicide such as Weed Impede, then wait a few weeks before plugging in the new plants.

The best defense against weeds overpowering your new groundcover (or any plant) is a healthy soil. Im a strong proponent of organic solutions to weed and soil problems, and there are several relatively new organic products that I have been working with. I like earth-friendly techniques that restore the natural power of soil. If youre interested, send me an e-mail, briefly describing your location, the specific situation and any particular problems youre facing, and Ill do my best to help you find a solution. As always you can reach me at steve@landsteward.org

If you really want to know the exact condition of your soil, you can take a sample and have a soil analysis performed. A good way to start looking for a soil testing lab is to call a local University and ask for the Agricultural Extension department. Again, drop me an e-mail if youre still puzzled.

If you believe your soil could do with a dose of tonic but dont want to have a soil analysis done, you can always take the middle ground and go for a basic commercial fertilizer such as a 5-10-5. Youll need about 3 pounds for every 100 square feet. After youve tilled the weed-free soil, fork in the fertilizer, along with some organic material such as leaf mold, compost or well-rotted manure. Organic materials improve drainage in clay soils and improve water-holding capacity of sandy soils.

Again, I emphasize that proper prep at this stage will result in healthier soil, thriving groundcover, fewer weeds and (here it is, folks!) less work for you later on.

So... which groundcovers are right for your landscape Trailing periwinkle or pachysandra Ajuga reptans or English Ivy In this column next time, Ill discuss the benefits of several groundcovers and the situations in which they work best. But dont wait. Beat the weeds and get started on site prep now!

The Plant Man is here to help. Send your questions about trees, shrubs and landscaping to steve@landsteward.org and for resources and additional information, or to subscribe to Steves free e-mailed newsletter, visit www.landsteward.org

Maximize Attention for Your Small Business

By Jeremy Cohen

If you have a great product or service that people want you
are well on your way to being successful. However, in order
to lock in and grow your success you need to maximize the
attention your products and services get.

As a small business owner you probably don't have millions
of dollars to spend on advertising campaigns to drill your
company's name into your prospects minds. That's okay.
Many small business owners find their success by effectively
developing and using their marketing message. You can use
your marketing message to position your business in such a
way that your prospects will think of you when they decide
it's time to take action to tackle a problem they have that
you help solve.

A marketing message is not a slogan or catch phrase. There
is an important difference. An effective marketing message
speaks directly to a specific audience and features
benefits, results and the value of a product or service.
Slogans and catch phrases often have nothing to do with a
specific market or results and benefits. Slogans and catch
phrases are used by big companies to imprint their corporate
image in our minds simply by sheer repetition. They need
not relate to hamburgers or sneakers for us to immediately
associate a couple of words with the appropriate company.

Here are five simple steps you can take to help maximize
attention for your business.

1. Drop the Slogan
If you're using a slogan or catch phrase to market your
small business you're probably missing opportunities to have
prospects identify you as the solution to their problem. If
your slogan does not clearly identify the population you
serve and the results you provide you are definitely
allowing business to pass you by.

Make the decision to drop the slogan and develop and use a
marketing message. You will increase your ability to
develop new business.

2. Develop or Correct Your Marketing Message
Once you have decided to let your slogan go the way of the
Dodo you must develop your marketing message. When writing
your marketing message think about those you help and the
benefits they seek from your product or service. Ask
yourself as many questions as you can to identify your
customers and the results they seek. When you've answered
these questions you can use the information you've gathered
to put together a marketing message that sells.

3. Use Your Marketing Message
Once you've developed your marketing message you'll want to
include it any aspect of your business where a marketing
opportunity may present itself. Remember, the purpose of
using a marketing message is much the same as that of a
slogan or catch phrase, you want to position your business
in your prospects minds so that they think of you when they
decide to take action to solve their problem.

Because you don't have the capital to run thousands of
television and full page print ads in major periodicals, you
must massage your marketing message into the every-day
occurrences of running your business.

For example, how often do you give someone a business card
or answer the phone? These are great opportunities to
splash your prospects with your marketing message. You
don't need a $2.5 million commercial to run during The Big
Game to successfully market your business. So, do some
brainstorming and come up with a list of other frequent
opportunities where you can use your marketing message.
You'll be glad you did!

4. Demonstrate Value
If your marketing message is good it will help your
prospects recognize you as the solution to their problem and
it will also inspire them to take the action you want them
to take; visit your web site, for example. Use this step to
demonstrate value to your prospects. Once you've drawn them
in, show them you're for real by giving something away for
free in exchange for their contact information. Some common
giveaways are E-Books or instructional articles. By giving
something away you create the opportunity to demonstrate
your expertise and you also give your prospects something to
talk about with their peers and colleagues. There's nothing
like word of mouth referrals.

5. Develop a Relationship
Once you have your prospects' contact information you can
maximize attention for your business by staying in touch. I
suggest publishing a helpful newsletter. Send it as often
as you can, but probably not more than once a week. You
don't want to become a bother to your prospects. Get
permission to send it when your prospects sign up for your
freebie. We don't want to send unwanted email.

By sending a periodic newsletter or other correspondence you
help to keep yourself on your prospects radar screen. As
time moves on you will maintain your position in your
prospects' minds and vastly improve your chances of having
them turn to you when they decide they need help. You can
also use your newsletter to inform them of new products and
services as you develop them.

Move Your Marketing Forward
Make the decision to drop the slogan and take the time to
develop, use and follow through with your marketing message.
You will be amazed by your ability to have new clients
contact you.

RESOURCE BOX FOR ELECTRONIC REPBULICATION
Copyright © 2004-2005 bettermarketingresults.com & Jeremy Cohen

The author, marketing coach, Jeremy Cohen, helps small
business owners implement proven marketing strategies to attract
more clients and grow their business. Inquire about his coaching
service or request his free marketing guide:
Jumpstart Marketing:More Profits, Clients and Success at:
http://www.bettermarketingresults.com/marketing-services.asp

Write your own Santa Letter

Christmas is fast approaching and soon we will turn over yet another year. It is hard to believe that we are in the year 2005. With Christmas and the New Year come a lot of parties, a lot of eating, and for many people a lot of non-productive time. For children though, they use this time to get some things done. You see, Christmas is also the time of year when millions of children write letters to Santa with their wishes. There is a HUGE lesson to learn from kids who do this.

Children often pursue the things they hope for at Christmas with some relentless enthusiasm and determination. Generally when kids get something in their mind, they are incredibly persistent in focusing on that goal. No matter how many times you tell them no, they keep asking. I have 4 kids, all boys except for 3, so I know this deal well. I have already seen my kids' letters to Santa for this year, and it's amazing how detailed they are. Even though my kids sent their letters weeks ago, they still know everything that was in them. My one daughter, Katie who is 8, has a photocopy of her letter that she refers to often. When kids put their wishes in writing, their dreams take on a life of their own; they, in a sense, become achievable and believable. This, by the way, is a proven leadership habit. Now, I hope that you'll do the same.

I want you write out your own letter. I want you to write out your own wish list. Christmas is a time of year many businesspeople waste. They think they can't get anything done. What a bunch of hooey! Don't be one of those people who gets nothing done between now and the new year. Sit down today and write out some goals you want to accomplish next year. Once you've written them down, get to work. There is a lot you can get done before the end of the year.

If you don't know where to start with your letter, then take some of your clients to lunch and ask them what they think your company needs to work on. Tell them you want to be successful and know that the best way to make your company more successful is to make sure your clients are happy. Ask them what they would do if they owned your company. Two things will happen if you do this; number one, you will get some great ideas. And number two, you will impress your clients that you cared so much about them that you asked them for help. It is rare that meeting with clients and asking them to help you with your business is not a beneficial exercise.

The other group of people it is smart to ask for feedback is your employees; I prefer to call employees team members. Ask them what you need to work on, what they think your company is good at. Ask them what they see as opportunities for your company to grow. Ask them what they'd do if they owned your company. The key issue is to try and identify some things you need to work on.

Another thing you might want to do between now and the new year is to look at your budget. How did you do? What is your budget for next year? Look at your company's systems. Can your company run without you yet? If you can't leave for even 3 days, then your company is in need of some systems. Remember, companies that can run without the owner are much more valuable than those firms that need the owner present to operate effectively.

Lastly, talk to those close to you and ask them what you need to work on. If they truly love and respect you, they'll tell you. I have found the most successful people to be open to criticism. People who let others know they want to get better tend to get a lot of help getting there.

So as the New Year fast approaches, don't let this month, or 1/12 of a year, slip away. Don't get lazy; use this month to get some things done. Write out your wish list. Then put it in a letter and mail it to yourself and your closest confidant. I know you might think this is silly, but it helps make this process serious. And by sending your wish list to your confidant or mentor, you'll get a little nudge, if you need it, in getting those things done.

Oh, yeah, just so you don't think I've lost the Christmas Spirit, use some of the time to relax and enjoy your family and friends. But don't play too much; remember, as Ogden Nash so eloquently put it many years ago, "If you don't want to work, you have to earn enough money, so you don't have to work." Simple words, yes. True, yes, very true.


Martin J. Grunder Jr!
Entrepreneur, Speaker, Author, Consultant, Dad, & Husband
Marty Grunder! Inc.
Grunder Landscaping Co.
Dayton, Ohio
www.martygrunder.com
www.grunderlandscaping.com

Author of "The 9 Super Simple Steps to Entrepreneurial Success"

Green Industry Directory New Listings

Here are the latest additions to the directory:

• Alfresco Garden Design Magazine

• Dolphin Leisure

• Carolina Gardener

• DiRT

• Fine Gardening

• Garden and Hearth

• Garden and Hearth

• GardenAsia Magazine

• The Gardening Guru's Monthly Newsletter

• GardenPlace

• Green Web Garden

The Green Industry Directory is Growing:

770 listings as of August 14, 2004 and growing daily. 273 categories of landscape and garden related websites.

Add your landscape or garden related site to the Green Industry Directory:

To add your website to the Green Industry Directory click on the "Register" button (it's FREE) on the Green Industry Directory Index page.

After you register, log on and you can suggest as many sites or categories as you wish. After your suggestions are reviewed they will be added or excluded from the Directory and you will receive an email notification. Almost all Green Industry related sites would be approved.

Suggest a Category: Follow the same instructions for adding a link.

Become an Editor: Help build the largest Green Industry Directory of websites on the Internet. Become an Editor and add sites, approve site submissions, and develop new categories. To apply to be an Editor first suggest three new sites for the directory. Then send an email to: editor@progardenbiz.com. In your email include your log-on name and the three sites you suggested. Tell us the category in which you wish to be an Editor (if a new category, suggest it first) and why you wish to be an Editor. We will respond by email to make the arrangements.

Still have questions? Send an email to: editor@progardenbiz.com

Pour Your Lawn a Drink

Watering the lawn is both an art and a science. The science comes from the integral role water plays in benefiting plant growth and development. The art encompasses volume, timing and frequency, all of which can change based on environmental conditions. The following watering guidelines will help create a great-looking yard now and throughout the season.

Just an inch will do - How much water does a lawn need to stay healthy and green? The general rule of thumb is that most grass requires 1 inch of water per week. Research has shown that proper mowing and fertilizing practices encourage a deeply rooted, healthy lawn that efficiently uses its water supply. However, a lawn may need more water if it is under stress from foot traffic, insects or other environmental factors.

Conditions that require higher water use are the same as those found in desert climates – abundant sunshine, low humidity, high temperatures and wind.  The combination of these factors can remove as much as one-third of an inch of water per day from the plant and soil system. Conversely, the absence of these conditions makes watering requirements relatively low.

Before starting a watering schedule, it can be very helpful to determine how much water a sprinkler or irrigation system is putting down and where the water is going. Secure a few shallow tin cans (tuna cans are perfect) in a 10 to 20-foot grid in the yard, measure the depth of the water in each and make any needed adjustments. If puddles begin to form in the yard and earthworms rise to the surface, the lawn is getting too much water. Either water less or in shorter time periods, i.e., replace a 30-minute watering session with two 15-minute sessions spaced three to four hours apart.

Knowing when to water - If most lawns require an inch of water each week, how does one know when to water? While current weather conditions offer the best indication, most lawns exhibit physical signs when they're thirsty. For example, grass can turn a bluish color in direct sunlight. (These spots are easily seen with polarized sunglasses.) Also, footprints that stay in the lawn after walking on it indicate the grass needs a drink. Water aids dramatically in the recovery of grass that is under stress from foot traffic or pests.

Early morning, between 4 a.m. and 9 a.m., is the best time of the day to water. Winds are minimal, the sun is not intense and the water is less likely to evaporate. Watering early in the day also reduces the amount of time that standing water (a catalyst for turfgrass diseases) is on the grass.

The heat is on - While spring showers naturally take care of lawns, hot summer days present the biggest challenge. The 1-inch-per-week rule is best accomplished in a few 30-minute watering sessions. Occasional rain may take care of watering needs for a few days, but if it is windy, hot and dry for a long period, you may need to add one or two more sessions to the weekly schedule.

Grass has the ability to go dormant during droughts and will recover nicely when water returns to its system. So, it's acceptable to not water during hot, dry weather – even if the grass begins turning brown. However, after deciding to let the grass go dormant, stick with the decision. Suddenly replenishing the water supply without committing to a schedule will stress the plant and make it more susceptible to damage.

The ultimate convenience - Automatic irrigation systems are very handy for keeping a consistent watering schedule. Just remember that watering too frequently promotes shallow rooting of the grass, which weakens the turf and makes it more susceptible to damage. One of the best devices for regulating water distribution is a rain or moisture sensor that shuts down the system upon detecting moisture. The sensor also prevents the embarrassing scenario and waster of resources that occurs when sprinklers run during a rainstorm.

Does an automatic sprinkler guarantee a great yard? No, but it helps.  While watering is accomplished with anything from a sprinkling can to a hose, the key is the amount of water that is applied. Automatic systems that are forgotten can waste water and money, and provide a less than ideal environment for the yard. (Remember that it is OK to use the on/off switch.)

When combined with proper mowing, prudent fertilizing and heads-up weed and pest control practices, watering will help ensure that your yard looks great all summer long. Watering is a little bit of art, a little bit of science and well worth the effort.

Yard Doctor is sponsored by Briggs & Stratton
© Copyright 2002 Briggs & Stratton Corporation.

Lawn Equipment Tools For The Job - Popular Service Tools!



It should go without saying that having the right tools to work on lawn mower equipment is a major aspect of any job.



Most of what you need is an assortment of common hand tools that are usually already available around the average home or workshop.



I've listed below a few specialty tools that you should have access to in addition to your common hand tools. Most of these are relatively inexpensive and can be used for more than troubleshooting small engines and lawn mowers.

Read the complete article here...

Safe Storage and Disposal of Lawn and Garden Products Protect Family Well-Being and the Environment


MARYSVILLE, Ohio, Jul 28, 2004 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Lawn and garden products are key to growing and maintaining beautiful lawns, flowerbeds and other landscaping around homes. When those products are put away for the season, however, their proper storage and disposal can also contribute meaningfully to a more beautiful world in other ways.

"Lawn and garden products can be used safely year after year, but their proper storage is critical," said Chris Schmenk, director of Environmental Stewardship at Scotts. "It is never appropriate to spill excess product down the drain or into a storm sewer. It is also important not to allow products to be spilled onto a hard surface where they can drain out to the driveways or a street. Proper storage and disposal will keep products where they belong -- on lawns and in gardens -- and help ensure we keep our water clean and our families safe."

Safe storage of these products goes hand in hand with using them responsibly. It is important to limit unnecessary exposure to people and avoid unwanted release or runoff of garden products into the environment. For example, fertilizer should be stored in tightly sealed bags and kept away from wet or damp conditions. Similarly, liquid lawn and garden products should be tightly sealed -- preferably in their original container. This not only makes it less likely for the products to be spilled, but also less likely to be mistaken for something that is edible or enticing to children. These products also should be kept from freezing.

If products have been completely used, it is appropriate to place the empty package or container in the trash. A partially filled package that will not be used next year should be taken to a local solid waste disposal agency.

Scotts suggests homeowners adhere to the following "dos and don'ts" for proper storage and disposal of pesticides:


* Do keep lawn and garden products in a safe place away from children and pets. Store them above the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.
* Do store chemical-based products above ground in waterproof, airtight containers to avoid leaks.
* Do keep products in their original containers with the label intact to avoid confusion and possible ingestion.
* Do only buy the amount of product needed for one season's use. Consider purchasing ready-to-use products versus concentrates to avoid having to mix the chemicals and then safely store the leftovers.
* Do dispose of a small amount of extra product by using it on your lawn or garden. If that option is not available, work with state and local agencies (800/CLEAN-UP) to determine chemical disposal options.
* Do read the instructions on the back of each Scotts' package for instructions on proper storage or disposal of the product. Please contact our experts if you have further questions at 800/543-TURF or http://www.scotts.com .
* Don't store pesticides near a source of water or a location susceptible to flooding.
* Don't store pesticides near sources of heat, flame or spark.

Dedicated to a Beautiful World

****************************************

The Scotts Company is the world's largest marketer of branded consumer products for lawn and garden care, with a full range of products for professional horticulture as well. The Company owns the industry's most recognized brands. In the U.S., the Company's Scotts(R), Miracle-Gro(R) and Ortho(R) brands are market leading in their categories, as is the consumer Roundup(R) brand which is marketed in North America and most of Europe exclusively by Scotts and owned by Monsanto. In Europe, Scotts' brands include Weedol(R), Pathclear(R), Evergreen(R), Levington(R), Miracle-Gro(R), KB(R), Fertiligene(R) and Substral(R).

SOURCE The Scotts Company
http://www.scotts.com

Pirate Gardeners, Garden Fun, So it Goes...

Relax. Everyone needs some time off from mowing. If you're starting or running your own lawn care business, relaxation is just as important, if not more important, than if you work for a large company.

Everyone needs some time for fun in their lives. After all, as the old saying goes... All mowing and no play, makes the gardener a dull boy (or girl, as the case may be).

So, here's some fun things to take your mind off your lawn care work, sort of... The latest issue of ProGardenBiz "Just for Fun" is out...

Read it all at:

http://www.progardenbiz.com/issues/v1issue3/Lawn-Care-Mowing-Fun.html

- So it Goes

Jason Love's comentary on life. Not much about lawn care and gardening, but it will bring a smile, we hope! So STOP mowing and read on...

Pirate Gardeners

Avast lawn care matey's, follow the mowing adventures of Captain Blight and his pirate gardener mates. Beware the flag of the Jolly Rodger and remember... Dead men kill no snails (old pirate gardener saying).

Pirate Gardener Manifest

The mowing is done for the day (I hope...) and you don't want to wade through our magazine archives just for a few chuckles or groans... so the answer is Cap't Blight's Booty Manifest (that's pirate booty, as in gold, silver, sprinkler heads):

#1 Dead Men Kill No Snails
#2 Pirates of the Irrigation
#3 Scourge of the Four Seasons

Plus more fun and interesting diversions... at:

http://www.progardenbiz.com/issues/v1issue3/Lawn-Care-Mowing-Fun.html
_______________________________________

You can post questions, comments, thoughts, ideas and more to
our email discussion group at: pgbdiscussion@yahoogroups.com or
the new Forum section at:

http://www.progardenbiz.com/public_html/forum/index.php

I look forward to hearing from you! Have a happy and safe holiday season!

Thank you,

Steve Fleming
Publisher
ProGardenBiz

A Visit from St. Customer... A Landscaper's Tale
Article by Jack Stone
Copyright © 2003 by ProGardenBiz
ProGardenBiz, an online magazine
http://www.progardenbiz.com

'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the supply house,
Not a creature was stirring, not even a pipe mouse;
The orders were made in the office with care,
In hopes that St. Customer soon would be there;
The workers were ready all snug in their beds,
While visions of giant sales danced in their heads;
And the supplies were ready, the plants all so lush,
The owners had settled in for the great new year rush;
Then out on the lot there arose such a clatter,
They sprang from their seats to see what was the matter.
Away to the window they flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
When what to their wondering eyes did appear with such luck,
But a crew of eighteen landscapers and a giant semi-truck;
With a little old driver, and hardly a cuss,
They knew in a moment it must be St. Cus . . .

And so St. Customer bought out everything in the store.
His crew loaded it up and . . .

He sprang to his truck, to his crew gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle;
But they heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,
"Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"
__________________________________________

About the Author:

Jack Stone is a Contributing Editor for ProGardenBiz Magazine,
an online magazine for professional gardeners and landscape
contractors. Visit ProGardenBiz to find out how you can get a
free subscription, start-up guidance, business ideas and
inspiration at http://www.progardenbiz.com.
__________________________________________

You have permission to publish this article electronically or
in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines are included.
Must be published complete with no changes.
A courtesy copy of your publication would be appreciated.

This is your ProGardenBiz Newsletter! #9

To cancel your subscription click the link at the bottom of
this message. To post messages, ask or answer questions, send
your email to: pgbdiscussion@yahoogroups.com

____________________________________________

ProGardenBiz Landscape & Garden Magazine for the
Green Industry

ProGardenBiz is an online landscape & garden magazine and
directory for professional gardeners and landscape
contractors doing maintenance, irrigation, installation,
planting, and waterscapes.

Quote for today: "The successful leader has not the loudest voice but the readiest ear. And his or her real genius may well lie not in personal achievement, but in unleashing other people’s talent."

- Warren Bennis, business-administration educator

Life's Quips...
"The trouble with the rat-race is that even if you win you're
still a rat."
- Lily Tomlin

____________________________________________

In this Issue:

- First Things First
- Composting for Better Lawn & Landscape Care
- Sniglet
- Questions from our readers... and answers!
- Factoid - How many brains do you have?
- It Works for Me! Tips from our Readers
- Starting a Landscape or Gardening Business
- Contents Of the Current Issue of ProGardenBiz
____________________________________________

New this Week in ProGardenBiz:

Selling the Job
Landscape Maintenance Techniques
Plant Facts Index
Waterscapes
Irrigation Techniques


You can read these articles at:
http://www.progardenbiz.com
____________________________________________

First Things First

A young ensign had nearly completed his first overseas tour of duty
when he was given the opportunity to prepare his ship to "set sail."
With a stream of crisp commands, he had the decks buzzing with sailors
and soon the ship was churning slowly out of the channel.

The ensign's efficiency was remarkable. In fact, the talk was that he
had set a new record for getting the ship underway. His bubble was
burst, however, when he was handed a radio message from the captain.

"My personal congratulations upon completing your underway
preparation exercise according to the book and with amazing speed," it
read. "But next time wait until your captain is aboard before getting
underway!"

What good is a ship without the captain? The ensign did all the right
things, but he never did the most important thing!

It is a matter of priorities. You may accomplish a great deal every
day. But are you accomplishing the truly important things? To borrow
the language of Stephen Covey, have you put first things first?

In marriage and relationships, in work and career, in the areas of
mental, physical and spiritual health, are you truly doing the
important things?

It is never a matter of doing more. To determine to squeeze more time
in every day for exercise, reading or spiritual devotion usually does
not last long. More people find success in deciding what is truly
important and doing it first. And if some of the other "stuff" never
gets done, will you miss it?

Today, will you put first things first? And how about tomorrow? And
the next day? If so, you will one day discover that you are building a
life that counts.

Steve Goodier Publisher@LifeSupportSystem.com is a professional
speaker, consultant and author of numerous books. Visit his site for
more information, or to sign up for his FREE newsletter of Life, Love
and Laughter at http://LifeSupportSystem.com.

------------------------------------------


Composting for Better Lawn & Landscape Care

Article by Lance Richfield

What is Composting and Why Do It?

Composting is nature's way to recycle. It is the controlled
natural decomposition of organic material, such as leaves, grass
clippings, prunings, and fruit and vegetable scraps.
Microorganisms break down these materials into compost, or humus,
the nutrient rich soil product that results from proper
composting.

Composting has many benefits for your garden and the environment.
It save you money by conserving water and reducing the need to
purchase commercial fertilizers and soil amendments. It benefits
your yard and garden by improving soil health and fertility and
preventing erosion. It conserves water by helping the soil hold
more water and reducing the need for frequent watering. It helps
the environment by recycling valuable organic materials and
extending the life of the landfill.

Getting Started

Composting can be practiced almost anywhere... in your backyard,
at work or school, even if you live in an apartment! All you need
to get started composting is a little bit of space, a bin, and a
basic understanding of the composting process.



For the rest of this article see:
http://www.progardenbiz.com/issues/v1issue3/Composting-Lawn-Landscape.html

________________________________________________

Sniglet: Help wanted: Telepathy - you know where to apply.

________________________________________________

Q&A
Questions from our readers...

Q. I live in Richmond, VA.  I have 4 crepes that need to be
transplanted because they are not getting enough sun.  When is
the best time to do this?  Also what fertilizer should I use &
when to apply?
 
Azaleas also need to be moved because they have gotten too large
for the space.  When should I do this?  Best fertilizer & when to
apply? 

Thanks.  Mary

A. I always recommend asking planting questions of your local
nurseryman. They are most familiar with your area. In general,
though, you should be able to transplant either of these plants
anytime during the growing season. It is best to do it early so
as to give the plant time to become re-established before the
dormant season.

For the Crepe Myrtle any good fertilizer will do. For your Azaleas
you will find specialized fertilizers at your nursery that are
labeled for Azaleas. Ironite would be good for either plant.
Fertilize early in the growing season. Follow the instructions
on the fertilizer.

Q. my dad works in a factory and would like to start his own
business. the only thing stoping him is he dosen't know where to
start.he plans on starting out in the tampa, fl area.

what advice can you give or resources do you have to help him out.

thank you, tony e.

A. See our article How to Start and Run a Landscape Maintenance
Business at:

http://www.progardenbiz.com/resources/archives/issue1/features/IntroHowto.html

Other useful info:

Recommended Reading:

- Sunset's Western Garden Book
- Landscape Operations: Management, Methods, and Materials
- How to Start a Home-Based Landscaping Business, 3rd Edition
- Lawn Care & Gardening: A Down-To-Earth Guide to the Business
- How to Start and Run a Landscape Maintenance Business

Starting a Landscape or Gardening Business:

ProGardenBiz, a landscape and garden magazine for the Green
Industry is your online resource for starting and operating a
business as a landscape contractor or landscape and lawn
maintenance gardener. Related fields covered by ProGardenBiz are
irrigation installation and maintenance, sprinklers - repair and maintenance, waterscapes, water features, and ponds. You will also
find information on plants, plant identification, trees and tree maintenance, and many other topics that span the Green Industry.
Visit our new Community Web Portal for Forums, Chat, FAQ's, News,
Articles and more.

Q. Hi there, my name is Jim and I'm from Griffith, Indiana. I trim
and remove trees part time, but I have a chance for a city job but
they want me to be Licensed,Insured,and Bonded, which is
understandable. However I must take a contractors test. My question
is what will I need to do or study to pass the State test?

I would appreciate any advice, thank you.

Jim

A. You can contact your state offices for the best information at:

Landscaping: Indiana Professional Licensing Agency - State Office
Bldg. Indianapolis IN. 46204 Phone: (317) 232-2980

Technical book stores will often carry study guides and training
tools. Check your local yellow pages for Contractor Schools in
your area.



Have questions? We have answers. Send your questions to
editor@progardenbiz. Your questions are welcome and will be
answered by email and appear in our "Letters" or "Ask?"
columns.

____________________________________________

Factoid: A grasshopper can leap over obstacles 500 times its
own height.
____________________________________________

It Works for Me! Tips from our Readers

We use to use the special additives for spray marking when we
sprayed for weeds. It became too expensive so we started to use
food coloring. It works great and it doesn't stain as bad as
some of the commercially available products.

P.E.
Tucson, AZ

Have a problem with people cutting through shrub areas and cutting
corners? Try a few well placed rocks, or try lining the "path"
with lots of different size rocks. Have a problem with people
taking short cuts down a small slope face? Get a 4' by 8' wire
sheet with a minimum of 6" by 6" spacings. Cut it to fit the path.
Place several 2" by 2" stakes about 18" apart. Make sure that the
stakes stick up level with the top of the ground cover you have.
Nail the wire sheet to the stakes. You can also plant thorny
vines through the wire. If that doesn't work try land mines.

K.W.
El Cajon, CA

For solving path problems, I always liked the innovative design
solution used by a forward thinking landscape designer. The
landscaping was being installed in a shopping center with typical
islands in the parking area. The designer made a general plan, but requested that the contractor doing the install only put in the
irrigation system and the top soil graded to final grade with no
plantings. Small signs were put up to explain that the landscaping
was still under construction and the shopping center opened for
business.

Within a week there were clear paths in use across various areas of
the landscaping where people decided to take "shortcuts". The
designer than finalized the planting plans and incorporated these
paths into the plan. The paths were formalized with concrete walks
or stepping stones.

The people showed where they wanted to walk and the landscaping
conformed. - Editor

Why should I tell other people what works for me? If I figure
something out that does a better job than what everyone else is
doing and it gets me more work I'm not going to tell anyone. They
can figure it out for themselves. If get an idea its mine!

B.N.
Las Vegas, NV

Be a sport. If you have a technique or a method that is so unique
and exclusive, please don't tell anyone. You are right in that
instance. The things we want to hear about are the clever ways you
tackle everyday problems such as the ideas of above. No sense to
being stingy with a few ideas. - Editor

____________________________________________

Starting a Landscape or Gardening Business:
ProGardenBiz, a landscape and garden magazine for the Green
Industry is your online resource for starting and operating a
business as a landscape contractor or landscape and lawn
maintenance gardener. Related fields covered by ProGardenBiz
are irrigation installation and maintenance, sprinklers -
repair and maintenance, waterscapes, water features, and ponds.
You will also find information on plants, plant identification,
trees and tree maintenance, and many other topics that span the
Green Industry.

If the answers you seek are not readily found, then drop us an
email at: editor@progardenbiz. Your questions are welcome and
will be answered by email and appear in our "Letters" or "Ask?"
columns.
_______________________________________

Contents Of the Current Issue of ProGardenBiz
http://www.progardenbiz.com
Volume 1, Issue 3
Feature Articles

- Being a Pro: A Series on Professionalism: Lawn Maintenance
Equipment, Buying & Using to make a Profit


Volume 1, Issue 3
Feature Articles

- Being a Pro: Equipment
- Irriation Time Savers II
- Project Management
- Custom Designed Pond
- Erosion Control for Landscape Installation
- CLCA Certified Landscape Technician
_______________________________________

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Publisher
ProGardenBiz

Irrigation & Sprinkler Repair Service
Create a Profitable New Service to Your Lawn Care Business
Article by Jack Stone
Copyright © 2003 by ProGardenBiz
ProGardenBiz, an online magazine
http://www.progardenbiz.com

One of the most profitable additions to your lawn care service
business can be the repair of irrigation and sprinkler systems.
Although plumbers may do this work, it is not their area of
expertise and their hourly rates are often prohibitive for this
type of work. There are irrigation companies that do
installation that also do repair and maintenance and this is
their speciality. As a lawn care operator you have an
advantage with your immediate contact with an established
client base, your own customers!

Most lawn care operators include minor sprinkler repair as
part of the service. Parts should always be charged separately.
Major problems should be handled as separate jobs and charged by
the hour. The repair of irrigation and sprinkler systems is not
something that can be estimated prior to the start of the job.
The problems often lie underground and cannot be seen. You may
be able, from experience, to look over the problem and give a
rough idea of what is involved, but always charge by the hour
for the work, plus parts.

What you charge will vary from area to area. Generally
irrigation repair is charged at a slightly higher hourly rate
than lawn care service, but much less than what plumbers would
charge. An example would be:

Lawn Care hourly man-hour rate: $25.00 per hour
Plumber hourly rate: $85.00 per hour
Irrigation repair hourly rate: $40.00 per hour

Have a minimum charge of one hour's work and stick to it.
Tell the client the minimum up front. Before you actually
start working you never know if it will be a ten minute job
or a whole day. I could fill pages with the stories of what
we've found underground once we started digging, but at the
same time it's been more than once that I found the problem
was the time clock was shut off or had no power.

Buy your parts at a wholesale supplier that sells to the
landscape contractor market. Mark your parts up a minimum of
30%. Always check the discount hardware retailers in your
area, like Home Depot, as they will often have better prices.
When you buy at the wholesale supplier you will not get the
best discount unless you have a contractor's license, so
sometimes places like Home Depot will have better prices.

Keep a small stock of the most often used sprinkler repair
parts on your truck. Running to the supplier for every
repair job will waste time and eat into your profits.

The first question many lawn care operators ask is do they
need a landscape contractor's license to do irrigation and
sprinkler system repair work? You will need to check with
your State Contractor's license board to be sure, but in most
cases you do not. You would need a contractor's license to
do installations of new systems that exceed certain dollar values
(which vary from state to state in the U.S.A.).

How to Get New Repair Customers

People who need sprinkler systems repaired generally want it
done NOW! They will often take the first bid from the first
repair service to show up (as long as they like the person's
presentation and price). The best form of advertising I have
found for this work is a local classified ad direct mailer.
In my area this is called "The Pennysaver". Most towns and
cities have something similar. It will be a small magazine or
tabloid format publication that consists of classified and
display advertising. It usually is direct mailed to all houses
in the city or county. You can usually advertise by zip code
area which makes for very good targeted advertising. I usually
combine several services to make the ad more useful and cost
effective. An example ad for a lawn care service might be like
this:

Lawn and garden service. Weekly, bi-weekly custom care.
Sprinkler repair, yard clean-ups, trimming.

Add your name and phone number and place the ad. The
sprinkler repair work and yard clean-up jobs will easily pay
for the advertising and bring in extra profit. Meanwhile you
also benefit from building your regular maintenance route.

Tip: Is your regular maintenance route full? Not planning on
adding employees? Then continue advertising. Look for better
accounts, ask for higher hourly rates on the new accounts.
Always continue to improve and refine your maintenance work. As
you add better accounts you can drop the lower-paying or higher
maintenance accounts for the better work and improve your
profits at the same time.

Use the tools we have today to stay on top of your marketing
efforts. Have a cell phone and use it's number in your
advertising. You can take your calls in the field and schedule
to see new clients faster (they may be just down the street).
I've taken a call for sprinkler repair while doing maintenance
a short distance away. I'm usually the first one there and I
get the job done the same day (sometimes within an hour of the
call). Competitors with answering services or that scheduled
a meeting with the client later that day or evening lose the
job.

If you have never done any work on sprinkler systems or with
drip irrigation then get some good books on the subject and
learn the basics. Your wholesale supplier is also a very good
resource for information. They will have booklets and other
material from manufacturers like Rain Bird, Irritrol Systems,
Toro, Hunter, Rain Master, Weather-Matic, Champion, Superior
and more.

Some other good websites with information on irrigation and
sprinkler systems are:

http://www.lawn-sprinklers.net/
http://www.irrigationtutorials.com/
http://www.blueskyirrigation.com/sprinkler.htm
http://sprinklerdoc.4t.com/

__________________________________________

About the Author:

Jack Stone is a Contributing Editor for ProGardenBiz Magazine,
an online magazine for professional gardeners and landscape
contractors. Visit ProGardenBiz to find out how you can get a
free subscription, start-up guidance, business ideas and
inspiration at http://www.progardenbiz.com.
__________________________________________

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