Green Industry Leaders Network: Recent Episodes
C. Sabbarese
The Green Industry Leaders Network, presented by Corona Tools, is coalition of national organizations and brands sharing news and information from the leaders in the horticulture, tree care and landscape care.
Did you know that one of the most popular and most expensive apples, the Honeycrisp was developed back in the 1960s while only recently gaining its notoriety in the past decade? There is a reason why these apples are so good and more expensive than most apples you see in the market. In this discussion with Stacey Hirvela of Proven Winners shares the story of this apple, how it grows to be so large and sweet and why you pay a little extra to enjoy them.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, if you're a professional in the green industry and rely on Corona tools for getting the job done, then come join the Corona Crew! Become part of a new community on our Facebook Group. We welcome landscape and tree care professionals, horticulturists, agriculturists, farmers and more. If your business is the green industry, we'd love for you to be part of a growing community interested in developing tools that make your job easier, volunteer to test and review new tools, and get access to exclusive community giveaways. Look for the Corona Crew Facebook Group and requests to join, and register online. Thanks for listening and we hope to connect with you at Corona Crew!
ICYMI, National Association of Landscape Professionals hosted landscape business owners and industry suppliers at the first Elevate Conference and Expo in Orlando, FL. On this episode Warren Gorowitz, director of corporate social responsibility at Hunter Industries shares his impressions of this new event and what makes this one of the best industry shows to attend. From educational sessions networking and trade show, Elevate is poised to become a must attend event for green industry professionals. It's a great recap of the show and gives you some great reason to attend in 2023.
CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, if you're a professional in the green industry and rely on Corona tools for getting the job done, then come join the Corona Crew! Become part of a new community on our Facebook Group. We welcome landscape and tree care professionals, horticulturists, agriculturists, farmers and more. If your business is the green industry, we'd love for you to be part of a growing community interested in developing tools that make your job easier, volunteer to test and review new tools, and get access to exclusive community giveaways. Look for the Corona Crew Facebook Group and requests to join, and register online. Thanks for listening and we hope to connect with you at Corona Crew!
On this episode Kate Spirgen, editor of Garden Center Magazine shares insights on what trends she's seeing at the garden centers. She shares that demand for plants is still high at garden centers among home owners, and garden center owners are find create way to bring them in. Such making it about the experience that shoppers what to share with family and friends as well becoming the next "plant daddy" on social media.
CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, if you're a professional in the green industry and rely on Corona tools for getting the job done, then come join the Corona Crew! Become part of a new community on our Facebook Group. We welcome landscape and tree care professionals, horticulturists, agriculturists, farmers and more. If your business is the green industry, we'd love for you to be part of a growing community interested in developing tools that make your job easier, volunteer to test and review new tools, and get access to exclusive community giveaways. Look for the Corona Crew Facebook Group and requests to join, and register online. Thanks for listening and we hope to connect with you at Corona Crew!
We're starting to hear about drought and extreme drought in the west in the media as global temperatures become hotter. What's interesting is that conversations are not necessarily focusing on reversing this trend, but instead how we're going to cope with these changes. This week's guest, Richard Restuccia, Vice President of Water Management Solutions at Jain Irrigation, shares how the future looks for not just water and the lack there of, but how it's going to impact our daily lifestyle. We also mentioned Richard's live presentation on 9/29 on the Green Industry Speaks, a free event that brings together some of the brightest minds in the agriculture, tree care and water management in the growing threat of climate change. The event is part of the GardenComm Virtual Conference presented by Proven Winners ColorChoice. This is an opportunity to hear how hotter temperatures are effecting us all and how we'll have to change the way we garden and landscape. Register now for this free event
CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, if you're a professional in the green industry and rely on Corona tools for getting the job done, then come join the Corona Crew! Become part of a new community on our Facebook Group. We welcome landscape and tree care professionals, horticulturists, agriculturists, farmers and more. If your business is the green industry, we'd love for you to be part of a growing community interested in developing tools that make your job easier, volunteer to test and review new tools, and get access to exclusive community giveaways. Look for the Corona Crew Facebook Group and requests to join, and register online. Thanks for listening and we hope to connect with you at Corona Crew!
You may have heard about the Spotted Lanternfly, an invasive pest that showed up in Pennsylvania in 2014. The invasive pests ability to breed quickly and move west, is a grave concern to US agriculture and our trees. There is a somewhat controversial campaign going on to smash the pest in areas where the lanternfly is known to exist but some chose not to. In this discussion with Stacey Hirvela of Proven Winners shares what a big impact smashing them can do to help prevent them from spreading. From Spotted Lanternfly influencers on Tik Tok to resources from the USDA, this is something you don't want to miss!
CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, if you're a professional in the green industry and rely on Corona tools for getting the job done, then come join the Corona Crew! Become part of a new community on our Facebook Group. We welcome landscape and tree care professionals, horticulturists, agriculturists, farmers and more. If your business is the green industry, we'd love for you to be part of a growing community interested in developing tools that make your job easier, volunteer to test and review new tools, and get access to exclusive community giveaways. Look for the Corona Crew Facebook Group and requests to join, and register online. Thanks for listening and we hope to connect with you at Corona Crew!
For those of you in the industry the IGC Show in the Chicago was the biggest event for garden center owners to learn about what's new. With the show's closure in 2020, there was still a need for an event specific for IGC owners and so the Garden Center Conference Conference and Expo was formed. On this episode Kate Spirgen, editor of Garden Center Magazine shares highlights from the event and its plans for the future, including partnering with GardenComm, to create a mega, must-attend-event in 2023. This will be the only show of it's kind that brings together garden center owners with the garden communicators, who are helping to drive demand for the products and services at the garden centers. There's a lot in store for this event and we cover a many of the details in this episode.
CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, if you're a professional in the green industry and rely on Corona tools for getting the job done, then come join the Corona Crew! Become part of a new community on our Facebook Group. We welcome landscape and tree care professionals, horticulturists, agriculturists, farmers and more. If your business is the green industry, we'd love for you to be part of a growing community interested in developing tools that make your job easier, volunteer to test and review new tools, and get access to exclusive community giveaways. Look for the Corona Crew Facebook Group and requests to join, and register online. Thanks for listening and we hope to connect with you at Corona Crew!
We've shared a lot about water restrictions for urban water users, and this week we focus on how the drought is impacting agriculture. This week's guest, Richard Restuccia, Vice President of Water Management Solutions at Jain Irrigation, shares how the drought is effecting farms and how they are looking to technology to help with the lack of water. We also mentioned Richard's live presentation on 9/29 on the Green Industry Speaks, a free event that brings together some of the brightest minds in the agriculture, tree care and water management in the growing threat of climate change. The event is part of the GardenComm Virtual Conference presented by Proven Winners ColorChoice. This is an opportunity to hear how hotter temperatures are effecting us all and how we'll have to change the way we garden and landscape. Register now for this free event
CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, if you're a professional in the green industry and rely on Corona tools for getting the job done, then come join the Corona Crew! Become part of a new community on our Facebook Group. We welcome landscape and tree care professionals, horticulturists, agriculturists, farmers and more. If your business is the green industry, we'd love for you to be part of a growing community interested in developing tools that make your job easier, volunteer to test and review new tools, and get access to exclusive community giveaways. Look for the Corona Crew Facebook Group and requests to join, and register online. Thanks for listening and we hope to connect with you at Corona Crew!
On this episode, we chat with Dan Herms, vice president of research and development at the Davey Tree Institute. Dan shares how they are studying the effects of climate change on trees and their web page with more information. He also shares information on their SEED Campus which is Davey's state of the art training facility. The science and learning campus is being designed to ensure that Davey continues to attract and retain the most qualified, well-trained and engaged employees possible. We also discuss Dan's presentation on climate change and tree care being held during the GardenComm Virtual Conference on 9/29. This is a special free preview day that is open to everyone in the green industry. You an find more information and register here.
CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, if you're a professional in the green industry and rely on Corona tools for getting the job done, then come join the Corona Crew! Become part of a new community on our Facebook Group. We welcome landscape and tree care professionals, horticulturists, agriculturists, farmers and more. If your business is the green industry, we'd love for you to be part of a growing community interested in developing tools that make your job easier, volunteer to test and review new tools, and get access to exclusive community giveaways. Look for the Corona Crew Facebook Group and requests to join, and register online. Thanks for listening and we hope to connect with you at Corona Crew!
On this episode, we chat with staff arborist, Tchukki Andersen at the Tree Care Industry Association who shares some insights on the latest in robotics for tree care. Advancements in technology like the Sarcos Guardian XT, makes it possible for an arborist to control robotic arms while being safely on the ground. It could revolutionize tree trimming and worker safety for the net generation tree care professional. See the technology in action on the Sarcos website.
CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, if you're a professional in the green industry and rely on Corona tools for getting the job done, then come join the Corona Crew! Become part of a new community on our Facebook Group. We welcome landscape and tree care professionals, horticulturists, agriculturists, farmers and more. If your business is the green industry, we'd love for you to be part of a growing community interested in developing tools that make your job easier, volunteer to test and review new tools, and get access to exclusive community giveaways. Look for the Corona Crew Facebook Group and requests to join, and register online. Thanks for listening and we hope to connect with you at Corona Crew!
The idea the we're becoming a cookie-less society isn't necessarily news to marketers but it does make digital marketing and reaching your ideal audience, much harder. If your audience and community isn't in your email database, you should start developing this now before it's too late. As we move closer to Web 3, your audience will have to find you and provide you with access to their personal data. It's a great topic and discussion with Stacey Hirvela of Proven Winners.
CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, if you're a professional in the green industry and rely on Corona tools for getting the job done, then come join the Corona Crew! Become part of a new community on our Facebook Group. We welcome landscape and tree care professionals, horticulturists, agriculturists, farmers and more. If your business is the green industry, we'd love for you to be part of a growing community interested in developing tools that make your job easier, volunteer to test and review new tools, and get access to exclusive community giveaways. Look for the Corona Crew Facebook Group and requests to join, and register online. Thanks for listening and we hope to connect with you at Corona Crew!
Given the new watering restrictions in the west, it's essential that water customers can conserve more by making simple changes. This week's guest, Richard Restuccia, Vice President of Water Management Solutions at Jain Irrigation, shares why positive reinforcement helps people want to conserve and know that they are having a positive impact. There is a lot we can do by making more with less and Richard offers to great solutions in this episode.
CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, if you're a professional in the green industry and rely on Corona tools for getting the job done, then come join the Corona Crew! Become part of a new community on our Facebook Group. We welcome landscape and tree care professionals, horticulturists, agriculturists, farmers and more. If your business is the green industry, we'd love for you to be part of a growing community interested in developing tools that make your job easier, volunteer to test and review new tools, and get access to exclusive community giveaways. Look for the Corona Crew Facebook Group and requests to join, and register online. Thanks for listening and we hope to connect with you at Corona Crew!
Tree care crews rely on effective communication when at the job site. On this episode, we chat with staff arborist, Tchukki Andersen at the Tree Care Industry Association who shares some insights on the latest tech aborists use to communicate at th job site. It's important for tree care crews to be in constant communication so teams on the ground know what's happening with the crew high up in the tree canopy. Tchukki shares some of the latest and greatest tech and how it helps crews stay safe.
CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, if you're a professional in the green industry and rely on Corona tools for getting the job done, then come join the Corona Crew! Become part of a new community on our Facebook Group. We welcome landscape and tree care professionals, horticulturists, agriculturists, farmers and more. If your business is the green industry, we'd love for you to be part of a growing community interested in developing tools that make your job easier, volunteer to test and review new tools, and get access to exclusive community giveaways. Look for the Corona Crew Facebook Group and requests to join, and register online. Thanks for listening and we hope to connect with you at Corona Crew!
ICYMI, we shared news about new statewide water restrictions in California on week 5/17. Expanding on how the restrictions will be implemented, is Warren Gorowitz, director of corporate social responsibility at Hunter Industries. They have teamed up with National Association of Landscape Professionals, Irrigation Association, California Association of Landscape Contractors to put on a webinar on 6/6/22, to help interpret the new restrictions, what they meant and answer attendee questions. As the agenda and registration details unfolds we'll add the info here, but be sure to watch these organization's social feeds for the latest updates.
CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
In case you missed it, Kore Infrastructure located in Los Angeles, CA has developed a closed-loop system to convert organic waste in to fuel for cars with zero emissions. In the process of creating this fuel, the residual of the waste becomes biochar that has been proven useful in agriculture and landscaping to reduce the amount of water needed. Kore Infrastructure Vice President of Business Development, Steve Wirtel explains the process and its many benefits. It's a fascinating process and will have tremendous impact on the environment. Learn more about Kore Infrastructure and it's vision for the future.
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CONNECT WITH US
Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
As of June 1, 2022, new watering restrictions are going into effect in an effort to save water here in the west. This week's guest, Richard Restuccia, Vice President of Water Management Solutions at Jain Irrigation, shares why these restrictions aren't the ideal solution. Not only for the West but across the country. Tune into find out more about these restrictions and how we can address this issue on a national level.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
On this episode, Kate Sprigen, editor at Garden Center Magazine, shares her insights from their 2022 Houseplant Report in the from April 2022 issue. The houseplant market is still thriving and you can check out the trends and more on this growing opportunity for homeowners and the green industry.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
A perfect topic for the 150th Arbor Day celebration, we're discussing tree root crown excavation with staff arborist, Tchukki Andersen at the Tree Care Industry Association. When trees have yellowing leaves but no apparent signs of overwatering, drainage or pest issues, the answer could be below the surface. When all options have been explored, it may be necessary to bring in a professional to excavate the soil from the roots of the tree to test for any deceases or pathogens that may be affecting the tree. It's a fascinating process and Tchukki helps walk through what it entails.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
On this episode, @Kurtthearborist, aka tree care professional and business owner, Kurt Stenberg, some his new venture to plant 2 tree for every 1 tree cut down. Some times tree removal is necessary and sometimes homeowners just want the tree taken out. Kurt's new program Atmos, ads a small recycling fee to customers removing trees and plants 2 trees in the world. To learn more about connect with Kurt on Instagram @atmostreeorg.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
On this episode, Kate Sprigen, editor at Garden Center Magazine, shares some trends and some stand out plants from the California Spring Trials. Returning to an in-person event in spring, this event brings plant producers together to share their new plants and varieties.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
When it comes to doing spring cleanup in the garden, many homeowners have the best of intentions to support pollinators and provide them a suitable habitat during the cold winter months. But often times they miss the best practices for this and remove pollinators During spring cleanup before beneficial pollinators have emerged. Therefore, it's essential to know the how, when and why for spring clean up and Stacey Hirvela, marketing specialist with Proven Winners, shares everything you need to know on this important topic.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released a 3,600+ page report outlining global challenges we are facing. Richard Restuccia, Vice President of Water Management Solutions at Jain Irrigation, joins us to share four shocking takeaways from this report related to water scarcity in the western US and its impact. Check out Jain Irrigation's blog post on this topic,
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
On this episode, Kate Sprigen, editor at Garden Center Magazine, explains what drives a consumer's purchasing decision for plants in the garden center. It offers some insights into the research, how consumers made purchases and how the garden center owner can leverage this to sell more plants.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
ICYMI, one of the industry's best event is set to take place next week. We chatted with Warren Gorowitz, director of corporate social responsibility at Hunter Industries, who discussed the National Collegiate Landscape Competitions. The event put on by National Association of Landscape Professionals, is where horticultural universities and schools come together to compete for scholarships and interview for careers in the horticulture, landscaping and tree care professions. It's the must attend industry event of the year.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
Depending on where you are in the country, ICYMI, it may be time for late-winter pruning. Tchukki Andersen, staff arborist at Tree Care Industry Association, talks about when the ideal time to prune and benefits of caring for your trees. Whether you're pruning for shape or maximizing your yield, pruning at the right time of year is essential.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
This week I'm discussing things I am looking into like Crypto and how it can be applied to the green industry. It's my new shiny object that has captured my attention and I'm learning about it my spare time. It's not a matter of if it will make its way into the green industry, but when. I discovered a new podcast called Crypto Business with host Michael Stelzner of Social Media Examiner. If you are curious about what it is and how you can apply it to your business its worth the listen.
Also some events coming up next week to check out, Social Media Marketing World 22, National Collegiate Landscape Competitions, and big news coming from Gardencomm.org on 3/1, so stay tuned for that.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
It's no secret that the West is in a mega drought. Even with record snowfall earlier this winter, water levels are at a 1,200 year low, while temperatures continue to set records every year. Water is getting more expensive for us all and Richard Restuccia, Vice President of Water Management Solutions at Jain Irrigation, suggests ideas we should all implement to make every drop count.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
Local businesses, artisans and suppliers are partnering with garden centers to broaden their reach to new audiences. With the record number of new gardeners and DIYers, Kate Sprigen, editor at Garden Center Magazine, explains how garden centers are partnering together in very unique ways. For the business owners, they know there is a big interest in plants and gardening, and garden centers are getting plants and accessories out in front of those supporting their local businesses.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
With so many plant varieties and species, it's hard to know everything about a particular plant. Which is why Stacey Hirvela, marketing specialist with Proven Winners, and her team created a new podcast, Every Plant Deserves a Podcast. Each episode she provides a layman's explanation about the plants themselves and interesting facts about them. It's a great way to learn about them, how they are used and more. This podcast is for the insatiably curious and people who love to learn something new. You don’t need to be a gardener, plant geek, plant parent, or anything like that, to enjoy.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
It's a new year which always ushers in new laws in every state. ICYMI, there are a couple of new water laws on the books and Richard Restuccia, Vice President of Water Management Solutions, with Jain Irrigation. He shares insights on what these new laws are and ways you can help save water. For more resources check out the Jain Irrigation Blog.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
While no one has a crystal ball into the minds of the consumer, it's helpful for garden centers to know what trends to watch for. Kate Sprigen, editor at Garden Center Magazine, share her insights on what's hot in plants for consumers both inside and outside. People are incorporating more edibles in their traditional landscapes as fresh food supplies are more expensive and uncertain availability. There is also new demand for smaller indoor plants that has many going smaller and easy to grow.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
When you can't be outdoors in the cold winter months, it's a great time to take advantage of free educational session. ICYMI, we chatted with Warren Gorowitz, director of corporate social responsibility at Hunter Industries, who discussed their online training program which counts for CEUs. We also shared a professional series webinar coming out next month on Echo Means Business, a thriving community of landscape professionals.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
Happy New Year and thank you for tuning into the first weekly ICYMI episode in 2022! We're talking with Tchukki Andersen, staff arborist at Tree Care Industry Association, about the industry's spring shows. February kicks off show season and with the Omicron variant spreading like wildfire and Covid rates on the rise, is the green industry ready to get back to in-person events? Shows are scheduled to happen but it's anyone's guess as to what travel and attendance will be like. And whether or not you'll see the ROI if you are exhibiting. We've presented a couple points of view here but let us know if you're ready to get out there and enjoy the spring shows.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
Thank you for tuning into the last ICYMI episode in 2021. I spoke with some of my favorite industry colleagues who helped me close out the year. Each offering some interesting perspectives on things you might have missed or hadn't thought about that effect the green industry.
We've received favorable feedback about these ICYMI episodes through conversations within my network, and they have encouraged me to return to a weekly schedule with this podcast. Our resolution for the new year, is to get ICYMI back on a weekly schedule and covering one segment or piece of news going. It will result in shorter episodes but I think this will make events and news that happen in our industry more timely and relevant.
Enjoy this episode and we wish you for great things to come in the new year.
- Using tech to solve our water issues - Richard Restuccia, VP of Water Management Solutions at Jain Irrigation
- Supply Chain: what to expect in 2022 - Warren Gorowitz, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Hunter Industries
- Is tech in the Tree Care Industry a good thing? - Tchukki Andersen, staff arborist at Tree Care Industry Association
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
There is so much going on in the green industry this month, here are some important updates in case you missed them.
- Underestimating the Drought in the Western US - Richard Restuccia, VP of Water Management Solutions at Jain Irrigation
- State of the Industry Report- Garden center owners provide insights into their businesses - Kate Sprigen, editor at Garden Center Magazine
- Women in Tree Care - Tchukki Andersen, staff arborist at Tree Care Industry Association
- Preparing for the Irrigation Show and Conference 2021 - Warren Gorowitz, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Hunter Industries
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
There is so much going on in the green industry this month, namely it's now fall and that means our industry is hard at work with its fall season plans.
- Garden centers are featuring one-stop fall decor bundles for homeowners - Kate Sprigen, editor at Garden Center Magazine
- Challenges irrigating water-loving cannabis crops - Richard Restuccia, VP of Water Management Solutions at Jain Irrigation
- SEO: Why backlinks have made a comeback and why they're important - Stacey Hirvela, Marketing Specialist at Proven Winners Color Choice Shrubs
- GIE Expo and Landscapes are in the books, here's what's ahead for both in 2022 - Warren Gorowitz, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Hunter Industries
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
There is so much going on in the green industry this month, namely it's now fall and that means our industry is hard at work with its fall season plans.
- Garden centers are making it easy for consumers to select plants - Kate Sprigen, editor at Garden Center Magazine
- New Turf removal incentives and more - Richard Restuccia, VP of Water Management Solutions at Jain Irrigation
- Flower farmers are becoming the next big thing - Stacey Hirvela, Marketing Specialist at Proven Winners Color Choice Shrubs
- TCI Expo is on and they are turning up the test kitchen this year - Tchukki Andersen, staff arborist at Tree Care Industry Association
- Fall trade shows are still on and in-person - Warren Gorowitz, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Hunter Industries
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
There's always plenty going on in the green industry and ICYMI helps provide some insights on what these industry leaders are paying attention to. This month on the Green Industry Leaders Network - ICYMI episode:
- Cannabis Conference 21 - Clayton Tharrington, Pro Channel Manager at Corona Tools, attended the event and provides some insights on what happened at the event, state of the industry and more.
- Communicating the value of plants to new gardeners with Stacey Hirvela, Marketing Specialist at Proven Winners Color Choice Shrubs
- Irrigation Supply Disruption and what that means to landscape contractors - Warren Gorowitz, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Hunter Industries
- Garden center sales boon in 2020 in the Top 100 - Kate Sprigen, editor at Garden Center Magazine
- Historic low water levels in the West and more - Richard Restuccia, VP of Water Management Solutions at Jain Irrigation
- Grapple and Knuckleboom cranes use is gaining traction in the tree care industry and why that matters - Tchukki Andersen, staff arborist at Tree Care Industry Association
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin.
Thank you for tuning in to another ICYMI episode on the Green Industry Leaders Network. These episodes are all about interesting stories, information and insights that have an impact on the industry. Given the general demand for all of our products and services these days, the Green Industry Leaders Network is taking a pause from publishing an episode each week and focusing on the a monthly ICYMI episode. Our goal is to get back to a weekly episode at some point, however we may cover a topic outside of ICYMI from time to time.
First on this month's ICYMI, we caught up with Kate Spirgen, editor of Garden Center Magazine to talk about Cultivate 21 and key takeaways, then talk about in-person garden center events like Garden Center Conference & Expo for IGC owners, wanting to grow their business.
Following that, stay tuned as we discuss QR codes with Stacey Hirvela, marketing specialist for Spring Meadow Nursery and Proven Winners Color Choice. She shares how QR codes have skyrocketed back to the forefront and some creative ways that green industry brands and professionals are using them.
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Follow Kate at Greenhouse Management on Twitter and Facebook
Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group.This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Extreme heat and drought discussions are blanketing the news headlines, from predictions of dangerous fire seasons in the western US, to reservoirs like Lake Mead falling to historically low levels and could trigger an official shortage declaration for the first time.
In the Pacific Northwest, not only is this week scheduled to break more than 300 temperature records, the federal government is trying to preserve scarce water resources in the Klamath River Basin. They want to ensure the survival of fisheries necessary to tribal nations however farmers are calling on local irrigators to release the water, causing serious tensions in the area.
What's possibly the most interesting is the fact that areas generally not affected by droughts, are experiencing extreme heat and undergoing water restrictions. All of this new impacts the green industry including agriculture, landscaping, tree care and horticulture. So with July being Smart Irrigation Month, we're dedicating this ICYMI episode to covering some of these stories, and more with Corona pro channel manager, Clayton Tharrington.
ADDITIONAL ARTICLE RESOURCES & LINKS
- Another dangerous fire season is looming in the Western U.S.
- Could America be Headed for Another Dust Bowl?
- Tensions rise in the Klamath Basin as feds further reduce water allotments to farmers.
- US West prepares for possible 1st water shortage declaration.
- Western U.S. may be entering its most severe drought in modern history
- California facing drought crisis as water shortages mount and fire danger escalates
- Hermit Crab Pro - Jain Irrigation
- RootIRRIGATOR - Corona Tools
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Clayton Tharrington on LinkedIn
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Look in any high-end home design magazines, or visit lavish gardens and properties and you will no doubt, see skillfully manicured topiaries flanking each side or a stately entrance. As well as shapes like animals and geometric patterns that give any garden a formal look and feel. It's something that doesn't require a tremendous amount of skill to do but with the proper tools and plants, you too, can make your home entry look stately also.
In addition to artistic topiaries, many home owners are lacking space in their yards to grow things like fruit trees. So an equally artistic form for fruit trees, is espalier. Shaping and training a tree to grow flat against a building or taking advantage of a small, norrow space in your yard. It's a practice that has been done for centuries and not only produces dramatic, sculpted trees, but also bears some incredible fruit.
Joining me on this episode is Denise Schreiber, experienced and studied horticulturist and arborist who is a successful author and professional speaker. She shares a bit about both techniques, identify some ideal plants for each format, and what you'll need to know to be successful. She also references an excellent book on both forms from Longwood Gardens, available on Amazon. There is also a quick video from Monrovia showing topiary being done to inspire you on your next topiary project!
Denise Schreiber aka "Mrs. Know It All" of The Organic Gardeners on KDKA radio in Pittsburgh, shares some insights on this fascinating topic. She has been featured in the Ask the Expert column and is a contributing editor, in the Pennsylvania Gardener Magazine. Denise is also a national speaker, ISA certified arborist and has literally written the book about edible flowers called "Eat Your Roses, Pansies and Lavender and 49 Other Delicious Flowers" available on Amazon.
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Denise Schreiber - on Facebook
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group.This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Since Covid first began and work from home became a part of everyday life, the US has seen a surge in new homeowners. Many have fled higher-priced areas with smaller spaces in search of larger homes with more space and property. For those who have moved into new homes, over 55% did work in their landscape. Whether to put in a new landscape from scratch, update an existing one or just adding a few touches to make it their own.
When it comes to the workhorse of the landscape, the plants that balance the yard, provide year-round interest and texture, it's the "shrub" that brings it all together. For the new homeowner and existing landscapes alike, finding the right shrubs to reflect your design preference and color choices can be a pretty daunting task.
So we've asked Stacey Hirvela, horticultural marketing expert for Proven Winners Color Choice Shrubs, what she thinks make the best shrubs for the new homeowner. One great place to start is the Proven Winners guide, Gardening Simplified with tons of great tips, pictures and information for adding shrubs to your landscape.
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Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group.This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
As a green industry professional, it's important to keep up with everything that is effecting our businesses on a day to day basis. We subscribe to numerous industry newsletters, setup Google alerts, read industry reports and research, and network with peers peers and colleagues to learn about new things going on. It's nearly impossible to stay on top of everything.
Especially when you need to track many segments across the green industry. Like news and events in horticulture, landscape, irrigation, agriculture and tree care, to name a few. Because our own business tries to keep tabs on what's going on in all of these. It can be overwhelming to say the least.
On any given day, we're bombarded with news, bits and pieces of information and conversations with colleagues and peers, that it's likely to miss something that could play a role in how companies do business. So we developed a new podcast format called ICYMI, that will look at some important news worthy topics going in the green industry and discussions what makes them important.
Joining me on these episodes, will be Corona's pro channel manager, Clayton Tharrington. He's a new addition to the team but also new to the industry. Each month, he will be sharing news and information he learns and share how it could impact our businesses. Clayton also wants to hear what listeners have questions about or would be of value to them. It's also meant to be a 2-way conversation so if you are in the industry, reach out to Clayton to let him know what interests you.
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Clayton Tharrington on LinkedIn
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
If you own a landscape business, having access to quality information based on sound and meaningful research is a tremendous value. Like knowing what's important to customers, what services do they need help with, and whether demand for those services have increased or decreased over time. Having the right tools you need to make informed decisions can also highlight new opportunities to grow your business.
Joining us on this episode is Brian Horn, Editor of Lawn & Landscape Magazine. He shares his insights on a recent survey and report called Grow the Market. Released in the April 2021 issue, this report compares the data from the 2016 Grow the Market survey. Brian helps explain how you can use this report to make smart decisions about how you market your services to customers and where to focus your efforts.
Brian will also be presenting the survey at National Association of Landscape Professionals' Landscapes 21 session in a free-forum discussion format. It's an opportunity to explore the research directly and and engage with him on the report. Check the website for more details.
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Brian Horn at Lawn & Landscape Twitter and Facebook
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
In a recent news, the western US has possibly entered into a megadrought, verging on a permanent drought. Annual snow pack and rainfall are at historic lows which means there is less and less natural irrigation and water is in shorter supply. We've been discussing drought and smart water management for over a decade since we began #landscapechat back in 2010. Yet somehow, news stories like this makes smart water management more dire and crucial than ever before.
On this episode, our guest is Michael Derewenko, territorial sales and marketing manager of Jain Irrigation. We discuss the latest advancements in smart controllers like the HermitCrab Pro that are easy to for landscape professionals and DIY homeowners to retrofit an irrigation system in minutes. The cloud-based controller pulls weather-related data from the local cell towers and analyze multiple data points to maximize water efficiency. It goes well beyond the capabilities of standard smart controllers and delivers the right amount of water to lawns.
You can manage your system from any where, get sophisticated reporting that will monitor your water usage and let you know when it detects a problem with your system. Given our water supply is shrinking and the price of water is steadily increasing, making every drop count is what it's all about.
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Have questions about this episode or smart controller systems? Connect with Michael on Twitter @MDSavesWater and Jain's Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Our guest host on this episode of the Green Industry Leaders network podcast is David Ellis the American Horticultural Society Director of Communications and editor of The American Gardener magazine. Since 1953, they have been recognizing excellence in communications for individuals who are effective and inspire others to participate in horticulture.
David join us to share some insights on this prestigious award and introduces the 2021 BY Morrison award winner, Perla Sofía Curbelo-Santiago of Agrochic, based in Puerto Rico. She's a professional communicator with vast experience in radio, television, and newspapers. She's also certified in Horticulture Therapy (2019) from the Chicago Botanic Garden.
This episode highlights the how winners are recognized for this award and how Perla's communication skills held educate, inspire and exemplify the its honor.
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Perla Sofia Curbelo - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. AHS on its Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group.This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
In 2020 there were and estimated 16-20 million new gardeners in the US who took up the activity for the first time. We saw an explosive demand for plants and supplies from home-bound residents who wanted to be active outside, grow fresh food and take advantage of time spent at home to work on projects. With all those new gardeners and DIY homeowners, many enjoyed it but weren't necessarily sure what to do or had the skills to be successful.
Seeing there was a need on a national level for quality content and information born out of the pandemic, LaManda Joy, owner of City Grange garden centers based in the Chicago suburbs, and founder of the Peterson Garden Project, a non-profit victory garden, rose to the challenge. She and her team put together the Great Grow Along, a virtual learning series.
For a one-time fee, people across the country, from all growing zones and garden interests could participate in the live event and ask questions of the well-recognized pool of presenters and experienced horticulturists. It was an excellent series, that provided extended access to recordings which made it a fantastic library of information. In addition to helping beginners with some fresh ideas about the basics of growing, many experienced gardeners found great tips and ideas.
LaManda and her team filled the need for great content and delivered it with a first rate experience that could be a recipe for success in future virtual garden events. She is our guest on this episode to provide some insights on the Great Grow Along event, how it all came about and some of the outstanding presenters that made it a success.
REGISTER - If you would like to experience the Great Grow Along content, register by 3/31/21 for 6 months unlimited access.
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LaManda Joy at the City Grange - Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
There is something to be said for colorful flowers in a landscape. A punch of color, being a focal point, attracting bees, butterflies and other wildlife. Flowers can be incorporated in every garden, big and small and the provide a homeowner with seasonal beauty in their yard. If you are a new homeowner just starting out or need some inspiration for ideas to plant, our guest on this episode literally wrote the book on it.
Award-winning author and landscape designer, Jan Johnsen joins me to talk about her new book, Floratopia - 110 Flower Garden Ideas for Your Yard, Patio or Balcony. She shares some great tips and insight from the book that is designed for everyone, whether you have a large space or small space, it's a great way to add flowers and color to your life.
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Jan Johnsen - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Without a doubt we saw many people turning to gardening this past pandemic year as a way to deal with stress and growing their own food. That also included a lot of families, who made gardening a family pastime with the kids, which translates into a lot of kids experiencing the activity.
Having more children exposed to gardening at an early age can help develop a keen interest and a love for working outdoors and in the soil. It's one reason we are such big supporters of kids gardening. Hoping that if they have a good experience at a young age, so they might explore opportunities in horticulture, landscaping or tree care.
On this episode, we welcome back Christine Gall, program director at KidsGardening.org to share some insights on their organization, their Youth Garden Grant program and the Kids Gardening community they are launching to support those educating and inspiring what could become our future green industry leaders
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Christine Gall - KidsGardening.org
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, YouTube, and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Without a doubt, video plays a vital role in today's content strategy. As someone who needs to create branded videos like how-tos, product demo videos and live video formats such as Instagram and Facebook, there is a lot of planning, preparation and editing that goes into it. All to create a video that people will watch and engage with.
On this episode we invited back, YouTuber and back yard orchardist, Cameron Akrami, aka The Busy Gardener. His growing channel has nearly 9K subscribers, over 150 videos with audience that enjoys his how-to videos about growing fruit trees and gardening-related topics. Cameron shares some insights on the equipment he uses, editing programs including DaVinci Resolve and Snappa for creating captivating thumbnail images.
If you're a video content creator and challenged to make engaging videos, stay tuned for some solid advice and experiences that can help with your video content strategies.
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Cameron Akrami - The Busy Gardener YouTube
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter, YouTube, and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
We continue our strategy focus on this episode with a look at creative ways to get your audience to engage with your content. Things like special promotions, giveaways or creating games to tap into your audience's competitive nature. While you are creating fun and excitement that your audience wants to participate in, it's also a great way to create awareness for your brand and to learn about your products or services.
On this episode, we've invited Natalie Carmolli, Advertising and PR Specialist with Proven Winners, to share some insights about their "Shrub Madness" promotion. It's and interesting look into how they have gamified their shrubs, creating a fun and engaging way to spread awareness while educating their audience. For more information about this promotion, check out the Shrub Madness website.
There are some great takeaways that any content creator and marketer can learn from episode. So keep your mind open, get those creative juices flowing and find ways to get people talking and engaging with your content.
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Natalie Carmolli at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group.This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
This episode is part two in a series of strategy topics geared towards taking advantage of seasonal down time in the green industry. For many there may never be a downtime, however these are critical functions we should be doing daily, especially when it comes to creating content for digital media.
Whether it's diving into Google Analytics for making sound business decisions with your website and content, or optimizing your content so it will be found by search engines, which is where we focus today's discussion. Our guest is Stacey Hirvela, of Proven Winners and Spring Meadow Nurseries. She has some great insights for developing content for your website and tips for having it rank high in search engine results.
While this is one of our longer episodes, there is a lot of great information shared and it could easily have gone longer. If this episode whets your appetite for optimizing your content check out her live Gardencomm webinar to get into the weeds of optimizing your green industry content. SEO: Rising to the Top - Getting to the Top of Search Results webinar takes place 2/24/21 and there is a live Q&A session to get your questions answered. Details are available on the Gardencomm website.
Stacey also shares and recommends some great SEO resources like the Moz newsletter. One of her go-to sources for SEO articles and free SEO tools including a website analysis.
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Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
As a marketers, many use Google Analytics for basic monthly reports like traffic and general sales data to measure their website. However it also provides insights on how they are getting there, what they are viewing, how they are moving through your site and what they are looking for. It helps guide marketers to create more relevant content and informed decisions based on your audience's behaviors.
It's something I haven't spent much time digging into so I made a commitment to invest in an online course, "Google Analytics for Marketers" and so far it's been worth the investment of time and money. This episode isn't going to be a comprehensive overview but something to get you thinking about using analytics and optimizing your site and content. If you work with websites and measure them Google Analytics is treasure trove of data and capabilities including;
- Google Analytics and Google Analytics 4 - why you need them and what are the key differences
- Proper Setting up - important things to look for such as Views, User Management, Filters and basic settings
- Filters, Filters, Filters - the best thing and worst thing for your GA
- Reports - getting familiar with them, secondary dimensions, benchmarking, and behaviors
- Audience - important to understand your audience, demographics of users, the browsers they use, and how are they engaging with your site
- Traffic Reports - Where people are coming from, different types of referals
- Site reports - where did people enter, what pages did they access
- Goals - Setting goals, goals reports, ecommerce goals
There is a lot to Google Analytics and the information it can tell you about your audience, helping them find the content they are looking for, making it easier to convert and so much more.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group.This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Throughout the past year, we've been sharing how gardening is an ideal way to relieve stress and anxiety. Now approaching a year-long pandemic, many people have suffered greatly causing lasting stress on their bodies and minds. Getting out and gardening is certainly a way to help, but horticultural therapy takes it a step further to focus on specific needs, whether physical or emotional.
For those who have experienced trauma, horticultural therapy can be used to help learn new skills or rebuild skills that were lost. It helps improve memory, cognitive skills, language and socialization skills. Used In physical rehabilitation, its been demonstrated to help strengthen muscles and improve coordination, balance, and endurance. Horticultural therapists are professionals with specific education, training, and credentials in the use of horticultural for therapy and rehabilitation.
Our guest on this episode is Perla Sofía Curbelo-Santiago of Agrochic, based in Puerto Rico. She's a professional communicator with vast experience in radio, television, and newspapers. She's also certified in Horticulture Therapy (2019) from the Chicago Botanic Garden. She does many talks and webinars on the topic, and will featured on the Gardencomm webinar series on February 2, 2021. Follow the link to register for the live event and replay.
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Perla Sofia Curbelo - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group.This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
The beginning of a new year is often a time when we reflect on the past but also look to the future with enthusiasm for things we can change. In the midst of a pandemic year, this is an excellent opportunity to evaluate what's working, what's not and learning new technologies that can better guide our strategies.
This episode shares some tips for things we could be doing during the colder winter months, while work-from-home gives us more time to explore them. It's been nearly a year since the pandemic hit, and we may not have been unprepared for it then, we've learned a lot as a result of it. It's given us the ability to adapt to the new normal and adjust our strategies. Which is important, as we're nowhere close to being out of the woods with this pandemic.
Things that can help professionally and personally include:
- Diving into Google Analytics and Google Analytics 4 to understand your website traffic
- Optimizing current content for better SEO
- Developing quality content, faster and more efficiently
- Reviewing your social networks and strategies
- Attending virtual events - including Garden Design Magazine monthly free online gardening courses and workshops that will help you get the most out of your garden!
- Planning and hosting your own virtual event
These are all topics we will explore in depth in the coming weeks so stay tuned for those. This year is filled with promise in the green industry and investing some time now can help make it even better and more efficient in the busy months ahead.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group.This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
It's a new year which is already off to a rough start, yet it somehow feels a little different than 2020. Many are optimistic that we will see a sense of normalcy in the coming months and perhaps travel to 1-2 industry events later in the year. All signs are indicating that late-winter and spring will keep the green industry busy, but also keep homeowners busy around the house and in the yard. With so many new homeowners, it's a great time to look at the landscape and spruce it up with new plants or a putting in a vegetable garden.
On this episode, our guest is Natalie Carmolli, Advertising and PR Specialist with Spring Meadow Nursery and Proven Winners. She shares some of the new plants being introduced this year like the new Quick Fire Fab® panicle hydrangeas, featured in the shown in the episode image, with Tim Wood, Proven Winners® ColorChoice® New Product Development Manager. Natalie has an inside look at other new plants that are making their way to garden centers and online, to create the perfect outdoor oasis. From the hydrangea to tomato plants, Natalie shares what makes these new plant unique, but are also easy to grow for both the experienced and new gardeners.
There are few things in life that can help distract you from day-to-day life like being outdoors, planting new plants and enjoying them for many years to come. Stay safe and make it great new year.
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Natalie Carmolli at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group.This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
As we close out 2020, there is hope on the horizon that we will eventually return to in-person industry events. Across all channels, these events were either canceled, postponed or in some cases, went virtual.
As you will learn on this episode, taking an annual in-person event virtual, is no small feat. But when it's the largest tree care industry event that arborists attend, for continuing education units, hearing about what's new in the industry and seeing what the latest and greatest equipment, it's hard for the industry to cancel for a whole year.
Our guest on this episode is Tchukki Andersen staff arborist for Tree Care Industry Association. She has an inside look at what went into pulling off this virtual event, what sets it apart from other virtual events and more. For more information about attending the event, check out their website.
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Tchukki Andersen at TCIA - the VoiceofTreecare, on Twitter and Facebook.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group.This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
This is a special year-end episode of the Green Industry Leaders Network podcast. In this historic and pandemic year, we've overcome so much and ready to face whatever comes next. We've learn a lot over the past 9 months as will continue to do into the new year, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
On this episode we're bringing together some of the most-recognized leaders from our industry and those of us who work tirelessly to towards what this industry does best; making this world a greener and more enjoyable place to live.
We wanted to share some thoughts about what they've learned as a result of the pandemic, what they can't wait to move past and what they're looking forward to most once we have a handle on it. They offer some great perspectives and one thing we've all learned, is that we can adapt to whatever comes our way.
As a industry, this pandemic cast a spotlight on us, we rose to the occasion and seized the opportunity to shine. We've all been effected by this pandemic in one way or another and have much to be grateful for as well as being hopeful that 2021 will continue to shine a light on our industry.
Guest on this episode include;
Britt Wood | CEO - National Association of Landscape Professionals
Richard Restuccia | Vice President of Water Management Solutions - Jain Irrigation
Melinda Myers | Garden Spokeswoman, Radio & Television Host, Author, melindamyers.com
Jim Wolf | Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing - Corona Tools
Tchukki Andersen | Staff Arborist - Tree Care Industry Association
Warren Gorowitz | Director of Corporate Social Responsibility - Hunter Industries
Stacey Hirvela | Marketing Manager of Spring Meadow Nursery and Proven Winners Color Choice Shrubs
David Ellis | Director of Communications at American Horticultural Society
Kate Spirgen | Editor - GIE Media Produce Grower, Greenhouse Management and Garden Center Magazine
Joe Lamp'l | Television Host, podcast and blog joegardener.com
Lisa Simms | Executive Director of the New Jersey Tree Foundation
While we have some really great things coming up on this podcast, if you are a new listener, you may not have taken the time to browse some of the many great episodes we've done over the years.
We are grateful for all of our listeners tuning in to hear topics from great guests and partners like Richard Restuccia at Jain Irrigation, Stacey Hirvela with Proven Winners, Warren Gororwitz of Hunter Industries, David Ellis of American Horticulture Society, Tchukki Andersen of Tree Care Industry Association, Kate Spirgen with GIE Media, and so many others.
Since we're heading into the end of an historic year, I wanted to highlight some of the Best of GILN from the most popular to the some of the most intriguing, and downright informative. In this episode, I'll highlight a few episodes, what makes them great and why people are still downloading them.
E1 - Gardening for Wildlife and E62 - Fall Gardening for Wildlife. National Wildlife Federation's David Mizejewski
E41 - Growing in Containers with Stacey Hirvela of Proven Winners
E18 - Drip Irrigation Systems E105 - Choosing the Right Drip Emitter with Michael Derewenko of JAIN
E104 - Enhancing Agriculture Though Nanobubble Technology with Nick Dyner of Molear
E49 - Argriscaping - How Profitable is Your Landscape with Justin Rohner and Warren Gorowitz
E97 - Understanding Plant Heat Stress with Stacey Hirvela of Proven Winners
E65 - Upgrading to Sustainable Landscapes with Cynthia Bee of Jordan Valley Water Conservancy.
E24 - Disputes Over the Neighbor's Tree with Tchukki Andersen of Tree Care Industry Association
E20 - Selecting the Right Fruit Tree with Susan Poizner creator of orchardPeople.com
E37 - Slow Flowers with Debra Prinzing, author and speaker
E77 - Growing Edibles in Containers with David Ellis of American Horticulture Society and Charlie Nardozzi
E59 - Cultivate & Holiday Plant Trends with Kate Spirgen of GIE Media
Thank you for tuning in and the letting us sharing relevant topics from the green industry! Tell us what you like, what you'd like to hear more of, or what topics you'd like to cover.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Abana Jacobs was a friend to gardening and passionate about getting people outdoors. Always teaching others about sustainability, giving back to the community and connecting other leaders who could bring about change. On 11/23/20, Abana passed away from complications due to Covid 19.
On this Thanksgiving weekend, we are reminded how much this industry has been blessed with a surge in interest in gardening and landscaping services being deemed essential. We're thankful for industry leaders like Abana who always gave of herself, stood behind the scenes and made a big impact on the world around us.
As leaders in the industry and our communities, we should take the time to be thankful for all the amazing things we have the opportunity to do. Take time to appreciate those in your network. Offer someone help and hope when they need it most. While inspiring others to work towards good in this world.
This episode was not produced by or for Subaru. Most of those who knew Abana, knew that she represented the bland well and was aligned with their philosophies. She was featured on episode 85, Promoting Sustainability at the Philadelphia Flower Show sharing Subaru's program that she led, recycling plastics collected at dealerships across the nation.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
It's the middle of November, almost the end of 2020 and a it's been a year that most will not forget, anytime soon. When we look back at all the things that have happened, we'll be telling these stories for many years to come. Including how the green industry was fortunate to see a surge in the interest in gardening as one of the ways to make through quarantine.
Many were brand new to gardening and while some did it to pass the time, others were all in to start pandemic gardens to have fresh food in the backyard for the family. As an industry, we may never see this level of interest in gardening come again. So how do keep them engaged in gardening after the pandemic?
My guest on this episode is Teresa Speight of Cottage in the Court, blog and podcast dedicate to promoting the good of gardening. A fellow Gardencomm member, Teri is a regional director based in the Washington DC area where she is always out building community and teaching others about the joys that gardening and being in nature provides.
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Connect with Teri on her Blog and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Instagram and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
There are few things more frustrating than seeing a plant or tree you've nurtured, that's been overtaken or demolished by insects. Caterpillars, worms, mites, beetles, aphids and more... infecting your plant, and left to their own devices, can quite literally suck the life out of it!
That's where beneficial insects can come to the rescue! in the right environment, they can help take care of issues with destructive insects. The best part is, attracting beneficial insects can be as simple as planting flowers that creates a welcoming environment, and can be done naturally and organically. Done well with the right beneficial insects, you will reduce the presence of the bad ones so you can just enjoy your garden.
On this episode, we're discussing beneficial insects and more with Jenny Cobb, assistant growing manager at Spring Meadow Nursery of Proven Winners. She is the head of their Biocontrol Program and has a B.S. in Environmental Biology. Jenny has served in the U.S. Peace Corps working in forestry and agriculture.
RESOURCES
Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences - Beginner's Guide
University of California Agriculture &Natural Resources-IPM and Beneficial Predators
Attracting Pollinators to Your Garden-US Forest Service
National Pesticide Information Center-Beneficial Insects
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Jenny Cobb at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
As we're wrapping up this historic year, planning has been under way for our sales and marketing strategies which at this point are some pretty big question marks. Much of what we do from year to year like in-person trade shows, advertising, forecasting and the list goes on... is all up in the air. Being uncertain about what is in-store for 2021 as the Covid cases begin the feared second wave in these last remaining months of 2020. Which begs the question, how do you plan for a year of uncertainty??
In this episode, I take a look at information we factor into our planning for the coming year with the assumption, we have to expect the unexpected. Given what we've learned in 2020, trends we've seen and communicating with industry peers, we've planned out a roadmap for our strategies in the new year. It's anyone's guess as to what is in store and what our new normal will be like.
Join me on this episode where I share some insights we've learned about the industry and how we continue to engage with new gardeners, which led the surge in the green industry.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
For centuries toxic plants have been well known throughout history and claiming their share of victims, including Greek philosopher Socrates. He drank hemlock as his preferred method of carrying out his death sentence.
Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna), Castor Bean (Ricinus communis) and Oleander (Nerium oleander) are but a few known to be lethal. Plants use their toxins as a defense mechanism to keep predators at bay, whether insects, pets or humans. And coming in contact with one could have dire consequences...perhaps tightening your throat and closing your airway, intense nausea or vomiting, and in some cases, prove to be quite deadly.
It's likely that when you step out into your garden and landscape there are toxic plants all around. Sometimes unknowingly, that beautiful flower or shrub you have growing in your yard, could be highly toxic. So it's important to know which plants are, and where to look if you come in contact with one.
On this episode, expert horticulturist Stacey Hilvela, of Proven Winners, joins us to explore the world of toxic plants, explaining the different types of toxins, how to learn if your plants may be toxic and so much more. It's an episode you'll want to pay attention to, because you never know what toxic plants are lurking in your garden and landscape.
Credible sites for researching toxic plants:
University of California - Davis
Cornell University
North Carolina State University
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Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
We've seen a lot of homeowners and gardeners getting outside this year, whether planting a garden or taking care of neglected projects. Without a doubt, given the current climate of an ongoing pandemic, many people are turning to their yards for growing fresh fruits and vegetables to feed their families.
One great place to start is by planting a fruit tree. That might scare people who think they don't have the space or don't want to maintain it, but there are many different varieties of trees available to fit your space and still produce plenty of fruit.
Joining us on this #treechat episode, Damon Mori of Praxxis Manufacturing, developers of the H2oWize water ring, is a 3rd generation nurseryman and talented Landscape Architect who still owns and operates growing grounds in the San Fernando Valley area. He's a trained horticulturist at Cal Poly Pomona, bringing his expertise on the topic of growing fruit trees, that will help educate and inspire new growers.
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Connect with Damon on H2oWize Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Instagram and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Saying that 2020 has been quite a year is probably a huge understatement. The events of this year has changed us all and so much has happened making it a year like most have never seen. But one of silver lining of this unforgettable year, is the record number of people who turned to gardening, as a way to work through stay-at-home and quarantine. As an industry, we were all fortunate to see the homeowners taking up their tools and getting outside in the yard and landscape. Many for the very first time.
Now as fall comes around, this episode is to encourage those who enjoyed the outdoors, and sharing some tips on what you should and should not be doing this time of year in your garden and yard. And here's a spoiler, the answer is...very little! Gardens actually require very little work between now and spring, so don't throw in the trowel!
On this episode, we've invited advanced horticulturist and marketing specialist, Stacey Hirvela, of Proven Winners to share her thoughts on what you should be doing in your garden this time of year.
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Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
No matter where you live, installing a drip system helps ensure that you get water right where the plant needs it. But how do you know if you're using the right emitter and delivering the right amount of water to the plant?
With several drip irrigation options, it's easy to grab whatever is available and hope it's right. 1 GPH, 4GPH, button emitters, mini stake sprinklers, shrubblers or bubblers... how do you decide?? How do you take out the guess work select the correct one based on the plant's needs? What's the formula or science behind choosing the right one?
Our guest, Michael Derewenko, Territory Sales Manager and Marketing Manager at Jain Irrigation, helps provide his expert advice and what you should factor when choosing. Considerations include;
- Crop Coefficients: (breaks down how we calculate a plants demand)
- SDCWA Landscape Guide: (shows relevant plant watering demands)
- JAIN Contractor Design Guide: (tips on how to convert to drip and apply water with drip)
- JAIN Complete Home Garden Kit: (all in one kit for home gardeners)
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Have questions about this episode or drip irrigation systems? Connect with Michael on Twitter @MDSavesWater and Jain's Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Currently there are over 7 billion people on the planet and our global population is predicted by the U.N., to reach nearly 10 billion by 2050. The Food and Agriculture Organization estimates that global food production will need to increase by up to 70 percent, to meet our future population demand.
So how will food producers meet that challenge to increase production, without chemicals which could have a lasting impact to the environment and people? Nanobubble technology is one method that is showing success in large scale food production operations. It's a fascinating and relatively new technology that could also be developed to one day enhance turf growth, and even the backyard garden.
Joining us for this landscapechat episode to shed some light on nanobubbles technology is Nick Dyner, the CEO of Moleaer, a California-based nanobubble technology company. Moleaer has partnered with more than 100 food producers in the last three years, to use nanobubble generators to improve crop yields. This method provides the highest levels of oxygen to enhance food production, without the use of chemicals.
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Nick Dyner - Moleaer
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
We're all becoming more familiar these days with Zoom, Skype, Teams to conducting virtual meetings. With more video conferences being conducted rather than phone calls, things have changed and the likelihood that they ever go back, seems to be less and less.
Our 2020 industry shows have been canceled for the remainder on the year and stretching into 2021, virtual is here to stay and many green industry brands and organizations are embracing the technology to host face to face meetings. With all these virtual meetings and events going on, it's time to take a look at your own virtual strategy and up your game to the next level.
- What tips do you need to know to do them successfully
- Finding available resources
- How will you stand out among other virtual meetings
- How will you use the technology to drive your business
- What equipment is needed for a good virtual meeting presentation
- Mobile vs Desktop
There are a lot of great opportunities with virtual meeting and we'd love to hear your ideas on how to have a successful event. Share them with us and we have have a virtual Q&A event on the topic.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Something we hear a lot about, since the Covid pandemic is that people have turned to their gardens and backyards more than ever. Certainly working from home has made it more accessible and giving homeowners some extra time to spend outdoors but also as a means of growing fresh food for the family when access and supply isn't available. It's being referred to as pandemic gardening, and more and more homeowners are jumping in and growing fruits and veggies in their back yard.
I recently connected with a backyard grower, Cameron Akrami, who began growing fruit trees long before the pandemic, but has been sharing his knowledge and passion for growing them in his small backyard orchard, on his YouTube channel, The Busy Gardener. He servers as an inspiration to folks just starting out, shares great video tips and lessons learned, as well as engaging with new growers.
Want to see the video interview with Cameron? Check it out on Corona Tools YouTube.
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Cameron Akrami - The Busy Gardener YouTube
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Now more than anytime in our recent past, homeowners have taken to their gardens as a source of fresh food, exercise and beauty. As an industry we have to look at this momentum, make adjustments and plan for the future. In a recent survey conducted by the National Garden Bureau, they helped provide some insights on what's important to gardeners. What are they growing, why they're growing, what they are looking for in their local garden centers and more.
For the green industry, the survey helps uncover new opportunities and sheds some light on where we should be focusing our communication, products and services. As a means to help sustain this robust momentum and interest in gardening and landscapes, for years to come.
Joining us for this episode is Diane Blasek, director of two non-profits, National Garden Bureau and All-American Selections to review the findings, what they mean and what the industry can takeaway from it.
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Diane Blasak at National Garden Bureau blog - Facebook and Pinterest.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
From our humble beginnings on Twitter to our 100th episode, we've seen a lot of changes in social networks, digital media and the industry itself. When started this journey in 2010, there wasn't a lot of industry chats or conversation that connected organizations directly to the general public. It was a great platform to connect, build relationships, learn and have fun. We even coined the term "edutainment" and looked forward to another week.
Since then we've seen a lot of changes from Twitter, to live video including Periscope and Meerkat, podcasting and the way we connect with each other. As these platforms progress, we continue to do the same. While I'm recognizing this 100th episode as a milestone, I also wanted to recognize all the incredible guests and hosts who took time to share with us.
More than everything we've done here over the years, recognize that it's YOU, our listeners who make it all possible. As long as you're still listening and interested in topics in the green industry, well suffice it to say, we won't run out of things to talk about. So here's to you, the amazing network of organizations, industry professionals and people who appreciate what we do, to make our spaces green, livable so we can enjoy spending time outdoors.
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Richard Restuccia on Twitter, @H2oTrends and on the Jain Irrigation blog.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Cultivate Virtual is in the books and this episode has some industry reactions from regular attendees to the in-person event. We'll cover what they got from the virtual experience, things they learned and would apply to future events and how virtual could impact future industry events. I spoke with a mix of attendees including a session presenter, exhibitor, and editor of an industry publication, each providing their unique participation of the show
Having attended the Cultivate in years past, this episode provides some perspective on how live vs virtual compares, the good and the areas that could improve and strategies for successful future virtual events.
Don't forget to check out Cultivate Virtual and a Future for Virtual Events - Pt 1
Our guests on this episode include;
-
Diane Blasek, Executive Director of the National Garden Bureau
-
Barbara Wise - Sales manager at Crescent Containers
-
Kate Spirgen - Editor of Greenhouse Management, Produce Grower and Garden Center magazines
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Cultivate Virtual is in the books and this episode has some industry reactions from first-time attendees to this event. We'll cover what they got from the event, things they learned and would apply to future events and how virtual could impact future industry events. What's interesting, is that these industry contacts were able to experience this event only because it was virtual. This kind of platform can lead to great exposure and visibility to a much larger audience than might never had access to before, whether it was due to travel or scheduling. It validates the idea that used creatively virtual could be here to stay.
Our guests on this episode include;
- Alison Edwards - Marketing & Communications, Burgon & Ball
- Warren Gorowitz - Director of Corporate Social Responsibility, Hunter Industries
- Peggy Riccio - Owner of pegplant.com and fellow Gardencomm member
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
It's summertime which means soaring temperatures and heat that can cause extreme stress on a plant. Yet some plants manage to flourish in heat, while others struggle.
On this plantchat episode, we're joined by expert horticulturist and marketing specialist, Stacey Hirvela of Proven Winners who helps explain some of this. From understanding what characteristics help protect against the heat by way of various adaptations to survive, to physiological adaptations as like a deeper root system. She also discusses how wilting plants can be a plant's survival mode and doesn't require water.
This episode is packed with some great insights that every gardener, homeowner and professional landscaper should know when selecting plants. You can also watch our first video interview with Stacey on our YouTube channel.
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Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
This is an inside look at how the California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) was essential in helping landscape contractors to continue working, as the country began shutting down in the face of the Covid 19 pandemic. Through hourly changes in regulations, Sandra Giarde, executive director at CLCA provides an account of how the organization helped its members to interpret the regulations coming down from state and local governments while providing guidance on continuing to work safely. Nearly 4 months into the pandemic, things are still changing and with a record number of Covid 19 cases being reported for a single day, it raises more questions and doubts about the future.
In this discussion it becomes clear that as a landscape business, it's times like this when being a member of an organization like CLCA becomes so crucial. Changing how we must evaluate outside forces and prepare as best as possible. Being able to adapt to new forms of communication and connecting to keep your business running. Also about businesses preparing for virtual events while the industry takes steps towards traveling and getting back to in-person events.
There's a lot packed into this episode that is all about pivoting to essential. Where Joined by Warren Gorowitz of Hunter Industries, this episode takes stock of where we've been as a result of the pandemic, where we are now, and thoughts about when we'll get back to doing what we do best as an industry, our relationships when we connect.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Lots going on in the industry these days in the wake of COVID-19 as the country reopens. Besides this being a busy time of year for the green industry in general many are still working remotely and almost all trade shows have been canceled for the remainder of the year.
TSA has stated that people have begun flying again, reporting 500K daily passengers at TSA checkpoint throughput. Still far below pre-Covid levels of nearly 2.7M which appears will be a long road to reach that level. Even if travel increases, how many will travel to trade shows and what will attendance be like? If travel is down overall, what does that do for attendance?
Many scheduled events have virtual options takes a different approach and thought process. There are a lot of moving parts in terms of preparing content, graphics and logistics of how people will interact with your virtual display. On this episode, we ask the question, are you ready for virtual??
Gaining experience now and going through this process makes us realize we need to adapt the platform to present the kinds of information we need, while doing that in on a self guided basis. What is your approach going to be for the remainder of the year? Are you checking out these virtual events? Taking note of what works and doesn't? Thinking through the process and developing your content? Or are you waiting it out for the 2021 show season?
No one has a crystal ball to know what the future holds, but it's apparent that things have changed due to Covid 19. From all indications so far, we're a long way from getting back to normal.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
This short episode came to me as I was preparing for my son's 8th grade graduation. Like any parent with a child graduating during this pandemic, it's easy to get caught up with the unfairness of missing out on the graduation ceremony and all the pomp and circumstance. But I see students from all over embracing the new normal and making the best of the graduating in the midst of social distancing.
I dedicated this episode to my son, who doesn't show signs of disappointment. He excelled with distance learning and graduated with his class online. It made me realize, as an industry there is a lesson we can learn from the Class of 2020.
The new normal continues to unfold each day and we've all had to adapt to make things work. The Class of 2020 demonstrates that the new normal is what we make it. Even during a crisis like Covid 19, we can embrace it and make it work. Being connected, staying essential and creating new paths. Congratulations Class of 2020 and thank you to the next generation of green industry professionals.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
During this period of social distancing and stay at home, the landscape industry has remained an essential business and service. Throughout the industry, the pandemic has changed how we work now and for the foreseeable future.
While Covid 19 has taken its toll , Jain Irrigation has hosted its weekly webinar series, called "Lunch and Learn" We were invited to join an esteemed panel, to discuss how Covid 19 has impacted our businesses. The panel was a great mix of manufacturing (Corona Tools), distribution (Horizon), and contracting ( Landscapes USA).
Please enjoy this #landscapechat episode and be sure to check out other Lunch and Learn sessions presented by Jain Irrigation. You can view the video webinar and the past sessions.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
There is no doubt about it, during these stressful times of quarantine, shelter in place orders and social distancing, more people have turned to their gardens. Maybe as something to pass the time, to relieve some of the stress, or as a way to get some physical exercise. But as the country is itching to get back to work and ready to venture out, will this interest in gardening be sustained once we return to our normal routines?
After speaking to many green industry professionals, there seems to be a consensus that we will all experience a new normal. Even if this pandemic ended today, it's going to take a long time for the engine that drives our food supply and economy to get back to where we were before this all started. So there are many reasons to think that we could still see people turning to gardening for growing food, relieving stress and feelings of depression, as well as physical activity.
On this #plantchat episode, I asked well-known garden expert Melinda Myers, a television and radio host, what she thinks on the topic and why she feels so many have turned to gardening. She has written over 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening and the Midwest Gardener's Handbook. And she also hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series, and the nationally-syndicated, "Melinda’s Garden Moment" TV & radio program. She's also a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and writes a nationally-syndicated garden column. If you would like to watch the complete interview with Melinda, watch it on our YouTube channel and subscribe while you're there.
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Connect with Melinda Myers by visiting her website, on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Being at home during the Covid 19 pandemic has given way to many homeowners tackling yard work projects to get through this period of isolation and social distancing. One of the bigger tasks includes tree care and pruning them.
Before you begin it's important to know the when to prune and thinking about why you're doing it. Things like reducing the size, reshaping or something else? As homeowners, it's important to think through why you need to prune a tree, how you're going to do it and when.
While some pruning tasks are well suited for a homeowner, there comes a point when you need to seek the help of a tree care professional. With the current economy and many people being out of work, more and more homeowners are hoping to take care of the work themselves though these uncertain economic times.
Joining us to help understand some basics of tree pruning is Kurt Stenberg, tree care professional and owner of Cochrane Tree Care. When he's not hanging out in trees or working on certification in arboriculture, he shares his tree work through his photography on Instagram at KurttheArborist. He shares incredible footage from his Go Pro and engages with arborists and green industry professionals from around the globe. Check out his video channel on YouTube and for a GILN first, the video interview of this topic.
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Kurt Stenberg - Instagram, YouTube
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
With the Covid-19 pandemic shutting down most of the country, essential businesses like landscaping services are still operating. It would seem to be the ideal job to have in the age of social distancing and being able to work outdoors But with so many commercial businesses shut down to stop the spread of the virus and unemployment claims at historic levels, both commercial and residential customers may decide to suspend their services in these uncertain times.
No one has a crystal ball and can tell when this might all come to an end or if things will just go back to the way they were when it does. So wanting to get a sense of where landscape business owners are in dealing with Covid 19, Lawn & Landscape magazine recently surveyed its readers, to get a reading on how this was affecting individual businesses and the impact it was having on the industry itself.
Joining us to discuss the results of those surveys, is Brian Horn, Editor of Lawn & Landscape Magazine. Also joining us is Richard Restuccia, Vice President, Water Management Solutions, at Jain Irrigation. This episode was also a video interview that is available from our YouTube channel in the Covid 19 playlist. Episode image provided by Pacific Landscape Management.
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Brian Horn at Lawn & Landscape Twitter and Facebook
Richard Restuccia on Twitter, @H2oTrends and on the Jain Irrigation blog.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
We all deal with stress of some form or another on a daily basis. More so now, in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. Most of us are isolated in our homes, unable to do things like going to the gym, go out eat, or socializing with family and friends.
While this virus has interrupted our daily routines, working in the garden and landscape is one activity that many are turning to. And with good reason. Being outdoors, in the sun and working in the soil has positive physical effects in the brain. Working in the yard can also be a great source of physical activity which is becoming much harder to do with social distancing.
On this episode, award-winning author, blogger and landscape designer, Jan Johnsen, shares her knowledge about the effects of gardening during stressful times. Her blog, Serenity in the Garden, offers tips, inspirational garden posts and other garden design related topics.
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Jan Johnsen - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
With the Covid-19 pandemic causing millions of Americans to shelter in place, this historic event has more people turning to gardening. With our podcasts covering gardening, landscape and tree care topics, we're making our upcoming topics relevant to what's going on in the world to today.
Based on trends we're seeing, homeowners are turning to their gardens for a couple of reasons. The most obvious is that it's spring and the time when most are in their gardens. With most of our public spaces being shut down or closed off to help maintain social distance,
Our gardens help provide a means of being outside, getting fresh air, a form of exercise with the gyms being closed, creating a outdoor oasis to escape reality and growing our own food due to the overwhelming demand.
During wartimes and the great depression, many people turned to their gardens to grow the food they needed since they either could not afford it, or it just wasn't available. It's when victory gardens first appeared and during this current crisis, we are seeing more people exploring gardens as a way to get through these uncertain times.
Joining us for this episode is Diane Blasek, director of two non-profits, National Garden Bureau and All-American Selections. She shares insights on how victory gardens got started and how the approach has changed over the decades.
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Diane Blasak at National Garden Bureau blog - Facebook and Pinterest.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitterand our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
When we come home at the end of the day, we all have that one spot in our home that is our place to relax and unwind. Having a spot like that outdoors, can also be a great way to relax among nature and escape all that is happing in the world. And on any given day, who among us can't use a small break from the stresses of everyday life?
Creating an outdoor oasis can offer a tranquil spot to enjoy a morning cup of coffee, a shady spot in the garden to take in some fresh air on a weekend afternoon, or that place you go after work to sit with someone, share a glass of wine and decompress from the day.
The best part about an outdoor oasis, it can be as simple and inexpensive as you like since its all about you and what brings you peace and serenity. Joining us on this episode is Stacey Hirvela, expert horticulturist and marketing professional from Proven Winners.
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Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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As a business, brand or marketer in the green industry, it can be a big challenge keeping up with the latest tips and techniques for promoting oneself on social media. Done well, the right social media presence can get your name out there and definitely help grow your company. Using the same tactics in a world of diminishing organic reach and the ever-changing landscape of social media, challenge is even greater. Especially keeping up with trends and making sure you're on the same platform as your customers.
At the Social Media Marketing World 20 conference, it was released that half the consumers don't trust businesses. So even if you are able to break through all the social noise, does your message resonate with your customer? One of the biggest revelations uncovered was your brand's personal video helps build trust and brand loyalty. There are industry professionals who do this well like @epicgardening, @jarlandscapingllc, @campuslandscape, @kurththearborist and more. Video can elevate your brand and help you standout in crowd like Ben the Dentist, aka the Bentist.
So this episode is a bit of a departure from our usual Green industry leaders Network Podcast given the topic and there are no guest hosts. If social media is an area of your business that you would like to improve, give us a shout and let us know. We'll be happy to add more topics to the GILN calendar!
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We're here at the Philadelphia Flower Show which dates back to 1829. Not only is it one of the oldest trade shows, its also one of the largest with over 250,000 attendees over 10 days. Subaru has a big part in putting on the annual event as a premier sponsor, and we visited them at the show this year to see what they have going on.
Joining us for an on-location #landscapechat episode is Abana Jacobs, National Marketing Specialist, Sponsorships & Promotions at Subaru of America. We caught up with Abana on the show floor to talk about some of the events they are putting on this year, including their programs to help protect the environment.
Through events like the Potting Parties, hosted by TuBloom, Subaru helps to educate participants how to plant in containers, while being mindful of not creating waste that will end up in local landfills. They also share with participants their recycling program with partners TerraCycle, collecting discarded plastics like coffee container lids and snack wrappers and turning them into useable items.
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Connect with Abana Jacobs on Twitter
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When you say the word hemp, many people have a strong opinion about it one way or another.
Some swear by the benefits of CBD oils derived from hemp or enjoy hemp seeds for an added boost of protein. Others have the impression that hemp is the by-product of cannabis and carries the same social stigma as using marijuana. Wherever you stand on hemp, consider these interesting facts;
- An acre of hemp will produce as much fiber as 2-3 acres of cotton, and as much paper material as 2-4 acres of trees.
- Hemp can grow in all 50 states, and is ready for harvesting in as little as 90-120 days.
- Hemp can be used to create fiber boards that are both lighter and stronger than wood.
- The original U.S. Constitution was written on hemp paper.
- Hemp contains little to no THC, the psychoactive chemical known for the high created by marijuana.
There is a lot more that can be said about growing and using hemp. Joining us on this #landscapechat episode is water expert Richard Restuccia, Vice President of Water Management Solutions, at Jain Irrigation, Inc.
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Connect with Richard Restuccia for any questions on Twitter, @H2oTrends and on the Jain Irrigation blog.
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Propagating plants from cuttings can be a great way to clone your favorite plant or fill in your landscape by dropping in a cutting of a geranium or other prolific growers. It's kind of like having a free supply of plants right in your own backyard!
While some plants are easy to propagate from a cutting, others aren't. Which often boils down the timing and the right growing conditions. There are also protected plants that patented, which prevents plant breeders and homeowners from propagating them.
Joining us for the 2nd part of this propagation topic, is expert horticulturist and marketing specialist, Stacey Hirvela of Proven Winners. In this episode, she helps explain the processes of plant propagation and what it takes to be successful.
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Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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This time of year many gardeners are kicking off the growing season by getting their seeds started indoors. Seeds are a great way to try new plants and varieties that you may not otherwise have access to locally. They're also a less expensive method of gardening, providing you are patient and can plan ahead.
There is a lot behind the scenes work that that goes into developing seeds and propagating them, in order for you to grow the plant you want with the results you expected.
Joining us on for a two part series on propagation is expert horticulturist and marketing specialist, Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners. In this #plantcaht episode, she covers propagating from seeds, a bit of the science behind the nature and provides insights to grow from seed successfully.
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Sustainability isn't just good for the garden, yard and landscape. It's good for us all. According to the EPA, residential outdoor water use in the US, is 9 billions gallons per day. Per day...! Most of that water is used for landscape irrigation.
Practicing sustainability isn't just about water. There are plenty of ways to introduce sustainability in our yards and it's something every homeowner and property owner needs to think about. Mostly because it makes good sense, saves money and precious resources, while benefitting the environment. Everything we can do individually no matter how small, will have a significant impact that will benefit us all.
Joining us on this #landscapechat episode is water expert Richard Restuccia, Vice President of Water Management Solutions, at Jain Irrigation, Inc.
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Connect with Richard Restuccia for any questions on Twitter, @H2oTrends and on the Jain Irrigation blog.
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It's a difficult question for anybody, what do you want to be when you grow up? Ask a young student and you're likely to hear a doctor, a lawyer, an engineer or some other profession that makes a decent living. All great careers, but they typically take years to complete, start off in an entry level position. With the hopes you'll move up, eventually make good money so you can pay off student loans and be ready to own a home or start a family. Unfortunately, that sort of career path doesn't work when you are in your 30s, moved your family to a new city and starting over.
Which makes careers in the green industry great opportunities for a young student, an experienced professional and for men and women alike. It's also an industry where the demand is great, and doesn't require advanced degree to be successful. You could also be your own boss and enjoy working outdoors, while making a good living too.
Our guest on this #treechat episode is Kurt Stenberg, of Cochrane Tree Care. Kurt enjoyed a career as Canadian firefighter and paramedic for 17 years, then his family decided to relocate to Cochrane, Alberta. After researching potential career opportunities, Kurt landed on Arboriculture, pulling experience from his days felling trees with the fire department and his love of trees and being outdoors. Since beginning his new career he's obtained certification through Arboriculture Canada for a variety of specific courses and he continues his education and work with mentors and instructors, continuing to expand his own certifications and skill base.
When he's not hanging out in trees or working on certification in arboriculture, he shares his tree work through his photography on Instagram at KurttheArborist. He shares incredible footage from his Go Pro and engages with arborists and green industry professionals from around the globe.
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Kurt Stenberg - Instagram, YouTube
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When traveling to a new place, taking time to see a beautifully designed garden is always time well spent for the garden enthusiast. Public gardens are not only impressive, they can serve as inspiration for garden design elements to incorporate in your own garden and landscape.
Many gardens are located near historical sites or have simply been around for generations and worth visiting while in the area. Whether traveling internationally or somewhere in the States, there is a likely a public garden near your destination.
On this #plantchat episode, we're joined by the Jim Peterson, the publisher and owner of Garden Design magazine which has transitioned into an online publication, GardenDesign.com. The site was created to be an online resource for homeowners and gardeners looking for garden design tips, information about plants, how to's and more. With so much great content that is well organized and easy to use, it's no wonder why the free site gets over 6 million visitors each year.
Based in Southern California, we're we thrilled to welcome Jim in the Corona office for an in-studio visit recently, to discuss the latest addition to the website, Self-Guided Garden Day Trips and International Garden Tours.
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Jim Peterson at Garden Design - Instagram, Facebook
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When you say the term green infrastructure, it sounds a bit technical and can have a number of definitions. It can certainly sound complex, but the basic concept is that it's a way to manage rainwater and climate effects, the way nature indented. Such as populated areas where the vast majority of the natural environment has been removed to make way for buildings, homes and roads. Green infrastructure introduces methods such as permeable pavement, green walls and green roofs to capture rainwater which helps manage it, while mitigating the heat island effect, a result of having a vast amount of pavement, concrete and lack of natural green spaces in our urban areas.
Green infrastructure improves our cities and the growing need for it presents new opportunities for landscape industry. Joining us on this #landscapechat episode is Warren Gorowitz, director of corporate social responsibility at Hunter Industries. His guest is Steven Peck president of Green Roofs for Healthy Cities. For more information on the resources mentioned in this episode, visit Living Architecture Monitor and Living Architecture Academy.
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Warren Gorowitz - Twitter, LinkedIn
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There are many reasons for growing edible plants in containers. Year-round growing, easy access and care, water efficiency, and many different container options, to name just a few. No matter whether you live in the coldest parts of the country or warmer climates like southern California, growing edibles in containers means always having access to fresh produce.
Containers represent a different type of growing environment, so there are certain guidelines to follow that will help ensure success. Joining us to share some insights on this #plantchat episode are David Ellis the American Horticultural Society (AHS) and guest, Charlie Nardozzi, renowned television host, author, and speaker. Both David and Charlie share some basics about growing edibles in containers, types of edibles that do well, watering tips, types of containers, and more. You can also visit Charlie's website for more great information and resources related to this topic.
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Charlie Nardozzi - Gardening with Charlie website.
AHS on its Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels.
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December 21st is the winter solstice, the first day of winter but with ever changing climate conditions, we're seeing freezing temperatures and snow as earlier in the year and further south than many are used to. Extreme fluctuations in temperature, can wreak havoc on roses, seriously damaging or killing them. Since roses can be a significant investment in both time and money, these aren't the kind of shrubs growers want to risk losing due to extreme weather.
Whether you need to protect them from a polar vortex by covering them in a blanket of leaves in a leaf bag ("Chicago Method" displayed), or just need to provide some seasonal winter care, we welcome back rosarian Susan Fox, or as many know her, Gaga's Garden, on this #plantchat episode. She's got some great tips and insights that will help your roses survive through the winter and thrive in spring, no matter what zone you're in. Be sure and check out more great winterizing tips on her blog post, Your Guide to Winter Rose Protection by Deb Kaiser.
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Susan Fox - on Twitter and Facebook
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There are so many great benefits to performing gardening and maintenance activities in your landscape. Not only are there therapeutic benefits - working outside, enjoying fresh air and physical exercise can do wonders for the body and mind. But over time, we all age and it can become increasingly difficult to do the same activities in the garden that we once could do with ease for extended periods of time. Add to that, the aches and pains that come from bending, kneeling or the sore hands after a day of pruning.
Adapting your garden to suit your abilities as you age, can make it as rewarding and beneficial to your overall mental and physical health. On this #plantchat episode, we're joined by Adaptive Gardening Expert & Inspirational Change-Agent, Toni Gattone, who's enthusiasm is contagious. She is passionate about empowering gardeners with practical, how-to information that promises to keep them in their gardens for years to come.
Her book, The Lifelong Gardener: Garden with Ease and Joy At Any Age, has been well received by both experienced and budding gardeners and is available at bookstores everywhere, on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and on her website.
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Toni Gattone - Blog, Facebook and Instagram.
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During the holidays, there is something truly special about displaying fresh flowers, evergreens and plants to provide seasonal color and fragrances. When you think about holiday plants, the poinsettia and Christmas cactus come to mind quickly, but bulb flowers like amaryllis and paper whites, are also among the top of the list this time of year. From selecting the right bulb, the growing medium used, to proper care and storage, holiday bulbs are easy to care for and never fail to impress.
As a follow up to our first topic on spring bulbs planted in fall, we spoke to expert horticulturist, Stacey Hirvela of Proven Winners, who joins us again on this #plantchat episode, to share her insights on these fascinating bulbs for the holidays. There is a lot to know about these impressive bulbs especially when it comes to selection. She recommends getting quality bulbs pictured on this episode from a trusted source such as Brent & Becky's.
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Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Lighting isn't the first thing that comes to mind when homeowners are designing a landscape however a well-lit yard provides a feeling of added security, as well as safety when arriving home after dark. It also sets the mood and highlights dramatic features which make a landscape unique.
With so many advancements in technology, colors and trends, there are a lot of options available. Joining us on this landscapechat episode to talk about landscape lighting is Warren Gorowitz, director of Corporate Social Responsibility for Hunter Industries. Joining Warren is his guest Ryan Williams, a director of marketing for Hunter's, FX Luminaire landscape lighting. Their website offers helpful resources and training courses for landscape professionals and homeowners alike.
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Warren Gorowitz - Twitter, LinkedIn
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With fall well underway, and parts of the US already feeling plummeting freezing temperatures, preparing and winterizing your garden is an essential task to help protect shrubs and newly planted trees. It's also good to help create a natural habitat for garden wildlife, in need of food and shelter during the winter months. Planting trees and bulb flowers that will pop up in the spring, bringing some much desired color to a dreary landscape.
Winterizing your garden may sound like a lot of work, however it's worth it to get these jobs done in the fall when temperatures are cooler easier to work outdoors. From tasks like blowing out irrigation systems to prevent freezing and broken pipes, to cutting back dead or damaged limbs that could become hazardous during sever winter storms. It's also an ideal time to give your garden tools some TLC before putting them to bed for the winter. Even through it's the end of the growing season, there's still plenty to do to keep gardeners, property owners and landscape professionals, busy this time of year.
Joining us on this #plantchat episode to share his experience and knowledge. is Sean McManus of the Spoken Garden. Sean grew up learning horticulture on the family rhododendron farm, receive two horticultural degrees at Washington State University, operated a private landscape business, and is now the co-founder of Spoken Garden with his wife Allison.
Their blog and podcast offers information about smart, sustainable garden maintenance. Teaching homeowners that taking care of their yard is an extension of the Earth. And to build their garden maintenance knowledge base, while growing a healthy garden and landscape.
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Sean McManus at Spoken Garden - Blog and Instagram.
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If you're a homeowner or landscape contractor, one of the most impressive sights you can plant in the landscape, is spring flower bulbs. Who doesn't enjoy experiencing their short-lived burst of color and fragrance after a long cold winter?
But have you ever stopped to think about what all is going on inside flower bulbs when you plant them? How they are developing throughout the fall, in winter while the ground is frozen, in spring when they bloom, and in summer after all the blooms are long gone?
Bulbs are a fascinating little compact bundle of nature and there is plenty going on inside before you ever see them bloom. So to understand more about what's happening with bulbs throughout the seasons, we spoke to expert horticulturist and plant specialist, Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners who shares her knowledge on the topic in this first of two episodes.
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Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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The green industry affords young entrepreneurs in landscape and tree care services, a great opportunity to run their own business. In an environment where there is often more demand for work than there are contractors to get it all done.
Lawn & Landscape's newly released, 2019 State of the Industry report, says business owners are once again confident about the industry overall. However with median revenues decreasing year over year, for the past 3 years, it's more more important than ever, for business owners to maximize their margins and profitability.
This can be challenging for a skilled contractor who's trained in horticulture or arboriculture, to understand all the important aspects of business. Or looking down the road, trying to build a successful business that they can sell when they're ready to retire.
So where do they turn for some sound advice to improve their business and get to the next level? Hiring a business consultant to help is a great option but that can be more than what a new business owner can afford.
On this #landscapechat episode, Bill Armand and Ed Laflamme of Harvest Group, shared some details about their online program called the Harvest Learning Academy. They share some insights on how it works and how entrepreneurs can apply their expert advice, to maximize the potential of their own business.
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The Harvest Group - Twitter, Facebook
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Without a doubt, one of the most popular flowers, is the rose. Not only for sending to someone special but also to grow them in the landscape. And despite the common belief they can be being difficult to grow and maintain, today's roses are are bred to be hearty and low maintenance. The stunning flowers combined with their incredible fragrance, makes their popularity easy to understand. With over 150 species of roses and 1,000s of hybrids, there is definitely something out there to suit everyone's taste.
With so many options, when it comes to selecting a new rose for your garden and landscape, it can be confusing figuring out which one would work best for you. One way to know which are the standsouts among the rest, is selecting one that performs well in rose trials. The Biltmore Rose Trials held each year in September, is one of the most prestigious rose events. Judges from all over, come to judge roses that have performed well, withstand the elements, while providing the most spectacular flowers.
Joining us on this episode is one of this year's judges, Susan Fox, a noted rosarian who is known to many as Gaga's Garden. She's shares some of her insights about what happens at this event and has been a judge since 2014. For a list of the 2019 winning roses, you can find them on her website as well as past years winners since she began judging roses at this event.
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Susan Fox - on Twitter and Facebook
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There are many great benefits of having trees growing in your landscape or on your property. Such as increasing the property value, providing shade on a hot summer day, privacy from the neighbors, or that seemingly endless harvest from fruit trees. While we enjoy all those benefits, there is one thing that home and property owners don't enjoy as much...the cost to maintain them.
Tree maintenance and specifically, tree removal can be rather costly to have a certified professional come out and do the work. Understanding what to ask and working with a certified professional, can often get the results you desire at a fair price.
On this treechat episode, master arborist, Tchukki Andersen of Tree Care Industry Association, explains why tree services can be expensive, offers insights on working with a certified professional and what you should be asking them before you hire them. For more information about locating a certified arborist, visit their help site, treecaretips.org.
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Tchukki Andersen at TCIA - the VoiceofTreecare, on Twitter and Facebook
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If you are a regular listener of our podcast, or actively involved in the green industry, sustainability is a topic that comes up often. And why shouldn't it? Being sustainable is good for businesses, good for the planet and good for everyone.
One of the best champions of this who, is often promoting this topic in the industry, is Warren Gorowitz, a regular guest on our podcast. He's recently made a big transition into the manufacturing world joining Hunter Industries, as their new director of corporate social responsibility. In his new role, he's expanding the sustainability platform to a broader corporate level and looking at how businesses can do their part to be socially responsible in their operations.
Warren joins us on this #landscapechat episode to share a bit about making the move to corporate social responsibility and how he brings these two topics together. He also discusses Hunter's annual Corporate Social Responsibility Report, which listeners can download.
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Warren Gorowitz - Twitter, LinkedIn
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Owning a landscape business can be a rewarding experience for an entrepreneur. These days there are plenty of great opportunities and quite often, more demand for work than business owners can handle. It's a great problem to have yet there are plenty of new landscape businesses that fail. While some established businesses stay busy, they struggle to make a profit from year to year.
That's were Lawn & Landscape magazine's Turnaround Tour comes in. In its 3rd year, the Turnaround Tour helps 3 landscape companies turn their business around to be streamlined and more profitable. Owners open their books and expose every aspect of their business to in order to take the next step to become a better, more profitable business.
At the center of the tour are business consultants, Bill Arman and Ed Laflamme of the Harvest Group, who join us on this #landscapechat episode and share some of their experiences since the tour began.
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Lawn & Landscape - Twitter, Facebook
The Harvest Group - Twitter, Facebook
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Sustainability as it relates to landscape is a topic we cover frequently on this podcast. We've learned over several episodes that the term is often confusing and as an industry, we've over complicated it. More importantly, how it's been communicated to home and property owners.
Many of them think of a sustainable landscape as one that is cactus, concrete and rocks. But there are agencies like the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy in Salt Lake City, who are helping to change the way we look and think about our landscapes. It's a fundamental mind-shift to think of sacrificing our lush landscapes, and upgrading to one that is functional as well as beautiful to look at.
Joining us on this #landscapechat episode is Cynthia Bee, who is the Outreach Coordinator at the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District. She is an experienced landscape design professional dedicated to teaching everyday homeowners how to create landscapes they'll love, which also fit the climate in which they live. She specializes in teaching landscape design, implementation and management to homeowners. You can also check out her Localscapes.com presentation, available from her SlideShare.
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Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District on Twitter and Facebook
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There are approximately 37 million people who face hunger in the U.S. — including more than 11 million children and over 5 million seniors. We might not think about it, but it's happening in every community, including yours. On this plantchat episode, we're focusing on how one person can make a tremendous impact on helping to feed those who are hungry, one garden at a time.
What started off as a 9 year old's school project grew into a 40 pound cabbage that fed nearly 300 people, Katie Stagliano, now age 21, has established a national organization called Katie's Krops that teaches kids to garden and donate their food to local food banks and homeless shelters.
Joining us on this episode is our guest, David Ellis of the American Horticultural Society (AHS), who asks Katie about some of the things she has accomplished, what she's learned along the way and where she's headed next.
It's an inspiring message for all of us and it demonstrates how each of us can make a difference. Katie has been recognized for her achievements including AHS's, 2018 Jane L. Taylor Award for her work in children’s and youth gardening.
As mentioned in the podcast, Katie's Krops will also be opening their 2019 grant program for new gardens October 2019 and you can find details on her website. AHS is also accepting nominations for the 2019 Jane L. Taylor award which you can learn more about on their website.
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Katie Stagliano at Katie's Krops website.
AHS on their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels.
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Many gardeners think about planting in spring, when the weather starts to warm up. However when it comes to weather and temperatures, fall and spring are very similar. There are some big advantages to planting shrubs and trees in fall. As well as some important dos and don'ts regarding what you should be planting and activities to avoid in fall.
On this #plantchat episode, we welcome back expert horticulturist, Stacey Hirvela with Proven Winners. She discusses why planting in fall is ideal since cooler temperatures will help with root growth and plant development, soil retains more moisture and how a thick lay of mulch will help protect new plants from freezing temperatures throughout winter. She also covers why you should put down your pruners and fertilizer this time of year.
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Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer for many Americans, with kids being back in school, the football season kicks off, and the days are getting noticeably shorter. The fall season is a great time for planting trees and shrubs and planning how to provide a habitat to support birds, butterflies and other garden wildlife.
Joining us on this #plantchat episode, podcast is David Mizejewski, a naturalist and television host with the National Wildlife Federation. He is an expert on restoring wildlife habitat by creating wildlife-friendly gardens.
David works to promote the National Wildlife Federation’s Garden for Wildlife program, which encourages people to plant native plants, to garden naturally, and to certify their yards and gardens as wildlife habitats. He's the author of the award-winning how-to book, Attracting Birds, Butterflies and Other Backyard Wildlife.
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David Mizejewski for the National Wildlife Federation - visit his website to for upcoming appearances, books and connect with him on social networks.
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What is something that flies and you can never have too much of? Time of course...It's true for everyone and something you will never get back. Effective time management can help ensure you make every minute count. Whether you are at the office, in your home life and everywhere in between, there are proven techniques and hacks to maximizing your time
On this #landscapechat episode Kate Spirgen, editor at Greenhouse Management's Produce Growers and Garden Center magazines joins us to share some tips for being more efficient in the work place.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
On any given day, you can turn on the news, or come across an article mentioning something about the Earth's rising temperatures. The topic has certainly brought the subject of climate change to the forefront in many households. There is a growing trend where more and more Americans are concerned about the environment and want to be be more sustainable in their gardens.
On this plantchat episode, guest Debra Knapke, or as many know her as The Garden Sage joins us to share ideas for making sustainability easy in the garden. She is passionate about gardening, sustainable garden design and the natural world. She enjoys sharing knowledge through her writing, public speaking, and garden consulting in the private and public sectors. Debra has also served on various local and national committees and boards, that focus on education, the environment, and sustainability.
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Debra Knapke - Website, Blog
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
If you want a preview of what will be in your local garden center in the coming seasons, a great way to do that is attending the Cultivate trade show. It's the largest horticultural trade show in the US, held in July. It's put on by American Hort and has approximately 10,000 attendees. This is also a time when garden center owners are thinking about what holiday plants and accessories to feature in their shops.
Joining us on this #landscapechat episode is Kate Spirgen, editor at Greenhouse Management's Produce Growers and Garden Center magazines.
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Follow Kate at Greenhouse Management on Twitter and Facebook
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
More than likely you know someone who has said they have a black thumb and they can't grow anything. Maybe that's you. The good news is there is no such thing, however people can have a real fear of being responsible for another living thing, such as a plant. Along with the anxiety that it could possibly die or it's too much of a commitment.
Regardless of what triggers the plant fear factor, expert horticulturist and marketing manager, Stacey Hirvela with Proven Winners, joins us on this episode to dispel these fears and offer so excellent solutions to overcome them. Included, the mind set that it's less about the plant and more about learning experiences, what to do with that plant you received as a gift that isn't really your taste and what to do with that plant that you've just grown tired of.
Once you get past the plant fear factor, you'll begin to appreciate all that the experience provides such as reducing your stress level, adding a focal point in your garden or landscape, to the confidence boost when your plant begins to flourish.
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Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
For home and property owners, planting trees is an ideal way to anchor a well-designed landscape. Tress increase the property value, provide shade on a hot summer day and privacy from neighbors too. There are many reasons we invest time and money into planting trees, but what happens when things take a turn for the worse with your tree? When you seek help from a tree care professional, only to find out the reason is it was planted wrong from the start.
On this episode, master arborist, Tchukki Andersen of Tree Care Industry Association, explains how professionals go about diagnosing this problem and discusses options for getting your prized tree back on healthy ground. Or helping a property owner to determine if it's beyond saving. For more information about proper planting techniques and best practices, visit their help site, treecaretips.org.
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Tchukki Andersen at TCIA - the VoiceofTreecare, on Twitter and Facebook
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
We all enjoy a beautiful outdoor space. Whether it's a public space, our own garden or a backyard oasis to entertain guests. There is a lot to appreciate about a well-designed garden or landscape. And regardless if you are a landscape professional or the do it yourself gardener, it's not always easy to put together a beautiful garden space that is an inviting and relaxing sanctuary from our busy lives.
Joining us on this #plantchat episode is Jan Johnsen, author of Gardentopia - Design Basics for Creating Beautiful Outdoor Spaces. Jan and her husband, have operated a landscape-design build business for more than 30 years. She's studied landscape architecture at University of Hawaii and worked in Kenya, Japan, Hawaii, New Orleans, Vermont and New York. And authored several other garden books including; Heaven is a Garden - Designing Serene Outdoor Spaces for Inspiration and Reflection and The Spirit of Stone - Stonescaping Ideas for Your Garden. Her blog, Serenity in the Garden, offers tips, inspirational garden posts and other garden design related topics.
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Jan Johnsen - Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Sustainability is a big word often used in our industry. Ask most anyone, and they will likely have an opinion or interpretation on what it means. It may sound like a complicated term and concept, but practicing sustainability can be something easy that we can all do, while having a tremendous impact on the world around us.
As an industry, it can be simple things like a landscaper installing drip irrigation lines, using hand tools or other clean energy power tools, and using native plants that require less water to maintain. For a landscape business, being sustainable can translate to doing good is good business. And as individual, practicing and supporting sustainability, benefits everyone on the planet, and our planet itself.
Our guest is Warren Gorowitz, vice president of sustainability, at Ewing Irrigation and Landscape Supply. Joining him is special guest, Judy Guido, a noted speaker on sustainability and through her work as an executive business coach, advisor, and consultant at Guido and Associates.
Don't forget to check out these sustainable resources mentioned in this episode. National Association of Landscape Professionals, and their loveyourlandscape.com site, International Erosion Control Association, Irrigation Association, US Green Building Council and Landscape Architecture Foundation.
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Warren Gorowitz - Twitter, Linkedin
Ewing Irrigation Facebook, Twitter
Judy Guido - Twitter
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
In today's busy and often rushed society, it's easy to become overstressed and overwhelmed in our day to day lives. There are many benefits to growing herbs, which can help relive stress and anxiety that so many of us struggle with. Whether it's enjoying a relaxing cup of chamomile tea, a meal prepared with generous amounts of herbs that's flavorful without the need for excessive salt, or spending time in the garden growing and tending to fresh herbs.
Joining us on this #plantchat episode is Geri Laufer, also known as Garden Geri, an accomplished garden book author, public speaker, studied horticulturist, and host of #herbchat, a live weekly gathering on Twitter to discuss all things herb related. She's an authority on this topic and a wealth of information and insights.
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Geri Laufer - Twitter and Instagram
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
For someone new to gardening, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to figure out where to start. There are so many product and plant options available and a wealth of information as well as misinformation online. If there is a way to provide someone with all the skills and knowledge they need to garden successfully, along with all the plants and materials, odds are good, you would have a recipe for success for the novice garden. That's where the new start-up and urban Chicago based, City Grange, has stepped to serve the local communities.
Forbes Online covered the City Grange grand opening and wrote, "it is unlike any other garden center, yes they have plants but it’s the environment it is creating, that makes this place more exciting..." It's the flagship location and first of its kind, a garden center, education center and social enterprise all rolled into one.
City Grange is owned by LaManda Joy, a local resident who founded the Peterson Garden Project, a victory garden in the Chicago community, nearly a decade ago. She is a creative, and savvy business women and our guest on this #plantchat episode.
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LaManda Joy at the City Grange - Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
When reading emails or scrolling through news feeds, It's hard to pass up a good list of what's hot or top reasons for doing something. So why not discuss what are the hottest trends in plants? Well, plants in and of themselves aren't trendsetters. And it's difficult if not down right impossible to produce plants to match what's hot in our society. Suffice it to say, when it comes to plants, having the latest colors that might allow you coordinate your landscape with the color of the year, isn't likely to happen.
Plant breeders can however, spot changes in our society and promote their plants in a way that meets the needs of gardeners, property owners and the landscape professional. Our guest on this #plantchat podcast is Stacey Hirvela of Proven Winners. She explains that while plants may never be trend setters, many breeders have the ability to meet current trends, simply by how they promote their plants. Whether it's marketing a popular plant that may not grow well outside in a particular zone, but could perform well indoors. Or identifying opportunities where perhaps a milkweed plant on a smaller scale, would open up a whole new market of consumers interested in attracting butterflies in smaller spaces.
It's an interesting discussion about plants being the means, to some of the trendiest ends.
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Stacey Hirvela at Proven Winners - Twitter, Facebook
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
Every spring there is an industry event that takes place in California called the California Spring Trials, aka CAST, for short. It's an event where all the big plant breeders come, to present the new plant introductions for the coming year. All the latest and greatest plants that have taken years of breeding and trialed in gardens across the country. It's probably the equivalent of a New York fashion show only the plants are center stage, rather than models.
Joining us on this #landscapechat episode is Kate Spirgen, newly promoted editor at Greenhouse Management's Produce Growers and Garden Center magazines. CAST is an event that relatively few attend, but it has significant impact for those of us in the landscape industry. If you want to know what will be available and learn about new plant varieties, CAST is the place to be. Check out Greenhouse Management's behind the scenes and see some of some of the fascinating new plants.
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Follow Kate at Greenhouse Management on Twitter and Facebook
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
On this #plantchat episode We explore the importance of introducing kids to gardening. Especially in today's technology driven culture, it's become more important than ever before. Benefits of gardening for kids and parents alike, include; improved mental health, getting physical activity, the quality of food, exposure to nature and the fresh outdoors. Not to mention, getting time to spend with your kids, teaching them about plants, how they grow and what it takes to do it successfully.
Our special guest, is gardening expert, national speaker and author, Melinda Myers. She shares some of her ideas for getting kids excited about gardening. As a passionate gardener, mother and grandmother, she speaks from the heart about why it's important to involve kids in the garden at all ages. Leading the discussion is David Ellis, director at the American Horticultural Society, who also hosts their annual event, the National Children & Youth Garden Symposium
So if you're a parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle with kids addicted to technology, we've got some great tips and ideas on where to get started.
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Connect with Melinda Myers by visiting her website, on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.
Connect with AHS on their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels.
And connect with Chris at Corona Tools to share your thoughts on this episode and provide feedback on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
On this #landscapechat episode, we take a look at how some property owners are making their entire landscape edible. Using up every square inch of space to grow fresh food in the front yard and back yard and everywhere in between. It's been coined agriscaping and we're highlighting ways to do it and actually make your landscape profitable. Think about that for a minute. Instead of spending money to maintain you landscape, it could actually be making you money!
Our guest is Warren Gorowitz, vice president of sustainability, at Ewing Irrigation and Landscape Supply, with Justin Rohner, founder of Agriscaping Technologies. Agriscaping has been featured in USAToday, USWeekly, Forbes, and Justin appears regularly on local news stations and speaks all across the country. Check out Justin's presentation he discusses, with some excellent facts and information you will want to read.
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Warren Gorowitz at Ewing Irrigation - Twitter, Facebook
Justiin Rohner at Agriscaping Technologies - Twitter, Facebook
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
On this episode, we're talking about indoor plants, a trend that became popular in the 70s, and has been making its way back into homes throughout Europe and in the US.
For the past several years in the UK, people have taking to indoor plants for their many benefits for their overall health and well-being. There have been many studies done to demonstrate how indoor plants improve the air quality in our home, help to reduce stress and sharpen our focus.
The trend is growing here in the US too thanks to social media and the #shelfie and #indoorjungle posts. Our guest is Alison Edwards, based in Poole UK, who is the PR manager for Burgon & Ball. She shares her insights about the indoor plant revival and essential care tips and tools needed to be successful.
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Connect with Alison Edwards at Burgon & Ball on Twitter and Instagram.
Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on social networks including Twitter Instagram and Facebook.
There are many great tips and ideas for businesses within the green industry to market their service. While some tactics may show some results and bring in leads, our customers are our marketers. Our products, services and our brands aren't what we them it is. It's what they are telling each other it is.
On this episode, we take a slight departure from topics discussing plants, trees and landscape, to take a look at how we as an industry, approach marketing to our customers. It's an opportunity for us recognize, we here to help them live the kind of lives they want.
I recently attended Social Media Marketing World 19 (#SMMW19) conference where the closing keynote was Mark Schaefer, speaker and author of Marketing Rebellion - The Most Human Company Wins. He defined how we as consumers rebelled against ads that lie to us, kept secrets from the public and now, thy have taken control of our marketing. Word of mouth isn't a thing of the past. 2/3rds of our marketing is happening without us and we can't control what their saying.
It's a profound shift in the way we approach our marketing. We must be more human and we can't buy our way in. We must be invited by making making connections and being human. My goal is to highlight some of the things we do now as a marketer in the green industry, and how we can be more human and invited into our customer's conversations.
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Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
On this #trechat episode, we present another installment from the popular Growers Success Summit webinar series. This topic covers many of the funadmentals of growing fruit trees for healthier trees, with maximum crops and better tasting fruit.
Our guest Sarah DePass, formerly of Stark Bros nurseries, discussed topics including pollination concepts, selecting the right fruit tree size and proper spacing, watering requirements for newly planted trees, proper pruning for the 3 S'- survival, shaping, and stimulation, growing trees in containers, both indoors and outdoors, and more great tips regarding fruit tree care.
For more information about fruit trees, visit Stark Bros website and blog and download Corona's free online guides, the Principles of Planting and Principles of Pruning.
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Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
Most home and property owners grow flowers, shrubs and trees to add color, fruit, texture and seasonal interest in their landscapes. But how many of us think of actually eating flowers or cooking with them? Surprisingly, there are many different types of edible flowers that not only look good on a plate, they also provide additional flavor, vitamins and other healthy benefits, to your food.
Joining us on this #plantchat episode, Denise Schreiber aka "Mrs. Know It All" of The Organic Gardeners on KDKA radio in Pittsburgh, shares some insights on this fascinating topic. She has been featured in the Ask the Expert column and is a contributing editor, in the Pennsylvania Gardener Magazine. Denise is also a national speaker, ISA certified arborist and has literally written the book about edible flowers called "Eat Your Roses, Pansies and Lavender and 49 Other Delicious Flowers" available on Amazon.
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Look for Denise on Facebook
And connect with Chris Sabbarese at CoronaTools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
When it comes to pruning, advanced gardeners most likely have a good understanding of the basic mechanics; the how to cut, when and where to cut, and so on. But there are a lot of terms used both from home gardeners and the pros, which are also important to understand what they mean before you begin pruning, and how it can effect the way your shrub, vine or plant will respond.
Joining us for this #plantchat episode, we welcome back Stacey Hirvela, of Proven Winners to help make sense of these concepts and how to apply them in your garden and landscape. Need some pruning basics? Check out Corona's free Principles of Pruning e-guide.
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If you have questions about the information Stacey shares in this episode or about Proven Winners plants, connect with them on Twitter or Facebook.
And connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
In the irrigation industry, equipment manufacturers are always try it improve upon technologies that conserver water. Whether it's on large scale systems for agriculture or smaller residential systems, they design them to deliver water more efficiently.
For example drip tape systems can be 95% efficient, meaning that it makes nearly every drop count. Contrast that to a standard spray irrigation system, that can be closer to 75% efficient, it become easy to see, there are be some major benefits for using a drip tape system.
Water expert and guest host is Richard Restuccia, Vice President of Water Management Solutions and Kevin Stewart, Western Regional Sales Manager at Jain Irrigation, Inc.
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Connect with Richard Restuccia for any questions on Twitter, @H2oTrends and on the Jain Irrigation blog.
Connect with Chris Sabbarese Corona Tools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
GILN listeners are also invited to connect and grow with us in our closed Facebook group, to carry on the discussion, ask questions and engage with other like minded individuals interested in landscaping, tree care and gardening.
When you're out in your garden or somewhere in nature, do you ever stop to admire the amazing diversity of plants you come across? There are countless species and varieties throughout the world that each provide something unique to the ecosystem.
Just like wildlife, plant species can also become extinct. A plant that perhaps provides shelter or food for wildlife, or maybe a life saving cure for a disease.
Plant conservationists play a key role in helping to ensure that doesn't happen.
On this #plantchat episode we discuss the importance of plant conservation with guest, Kayri Havens, Ph.D of the Chicago Botanic Garden. Our host is, Beth Tuttle, President & CEO, American Horticultural Society. Kayri is the winner of the American Horticultural Society’s 2019 Liberty Hyde Bailey Award. You can read more about this prestigeous award here.
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Connect with AHS on their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels.
And connect with Chris at Corona Tools to share your thoughts on this episode and provide feedback on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
One of the best ways to add a pop of color to a patio, porch or deck, is with some potted plants. Growing in containers provides some great seasonal color, but also the ability to expand your garden space. On this #plantchat episode, we're thrilled to have Proven Winners' horticultural expert, Stacey Hirvela,
With so many choices in containers and plants, it's no wonder why they are so popular and found in just about every household. Whether you live in an apartment on a second story, with a balcony, or in home with a yard, there are many benefits to growing in containers.
But doing it can take a bit of skill to successfully pull off the results you want. Stacey shares her insights on the proper types of soil to use, size of the containers, proper watering, fertilizing and more, to create a horticultural masterpiece that provides endless joy, season after season. For some great container plant recipes, be sure to check out the Proven Winners online tools that will help design the perfect container.
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If you have questions about the information Stacey shares in this episode or about Proven Winners plants, connect with them on Twitter or Facebook.
And connect with Chris Sabbarese @CoronaTools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
When it comes to water, it's a pretty safe bet that when someone turns on the faucet or the hose to water their landscape, they aren't really thinking about the journey each drop takes to be delivered on demand. If you listen to the news, you'll often hear about issues that ultimately affect irrigation and the green industry.
Whether its labor, infrastructure, changes in the earths climate or horticultural educational, these issues have a direct impact on the industry today and well into the future. On this #landscapechat episode, we'll take a look at some of the key federal issues going on now, and plans to ensure the industry continues to thrive.
On this episode, we welcome guests, Warren Gorowitz, vice president of sustainability at Ewing Irrigation and Landscape Supply and John Farner, government and public affairs director at Irrigation Association, who discuss some of the current political discussion and forward-looking technologies that have helped advance the industry.
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Warren Gorowitz at Ewing Irrigation - Twitter, Facebook
John Farner at Irrigation Association - Twitter
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Enjoy this episode or have questions? We want to hear from you. Connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on Twitter and our new GILN Facebook Group. This closed group is like-minded individuals who care about and discuss, gardening and plants, trees and landscaping related topics.
If you grow fruit trees, one of the most important things you can do for the overall tree health and production, is proper pruning. But before you grab your tools and start cutting back your trees, fruit tree owners need to start with a goal in mind, as well as a plan.
Pruned at the right time of the year, can help with proper structure, and produce more blossoms for a better yield. It also requires the proper tools and tree safety, to do the job without risk to you and or your tree. There is a lot covered in this episode including;
- When to Prune Fruit Trees
- How Much to Prune Each Season
- Proper Tools to Use
- Fertilizing After Pruning
On this Green Industry Leaders Network episode, we welcome back Tchukki Andersen, master arborist and certified tree care safety professional for Tree Care Industry Association. Find TCIA, the VoiceofTreecare on Twitter and Facebook
Connect and share this topic with Chris at Corona Tools, using #treechat on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
In this #landscapechat episode, we're discussing some great ways to massive water savings in your landscape with expert, Richard Restuccia, Vice President of Water Management Solutions at Jain Irrigation, Inc.
Richard lays out 6 steps for saving up to 85% in landscape water. And with the price of water continuing to rise, that can be some substantial savings, while still having a green and efficiently hydrated landscape. New smart controller technology is taking the guess work out of delivering the right amount of water your plants need, but also making real-time adjustments based on weather conditions. These controllers along with efficient watering techniques, will help ensure that every drop counts.
CONNECT WITH US
Connect with Richard Restuccia for any questions on Twitter, @H2oTrends and on the Jain Irrigation blog.
Connect with Chris Sabbarese @CoronaTools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
GILN listeners are also invited to connect and grow with us in our closed Facebook group, to carry on the discussion, ask questions and engage with other like minded individuals interested in landscaping, tree care and gardening.
Whether you are buying flowers for Valentines Day, Easter, Mother's Day or grand wedding displays, locally grown flowers provide the freshest, longest-lasting blooms available. On this #plantchat episode, author and speaker, Debra Prinzing, discusses the Slow Flower Movement and the importance of buying locally-grown flowers, with American Horticultural Society director, David Ellis.
Many flowers found in stores and florist shops travel thousands of miles and do not last long in floral arrangements. Today, local growers are providing better blooms, that are grown in season and Debra's goal is to bring consumers together with the florists who carry them. And for home gardeners who are also growing their own flowers, Debra shares some tips on easy flowers to start with, finding excellent seeds from providers like the Johnny's Seeds catalog, and utilizing the greenery and woody stems in your yard to create personalized displays throughout the seasons.
Be sure to check out Debra's Slow Flowers website for a wealth of floral resources, including local florists dedicated to slow flowers, local events and check out her popular Slow Flowers podcast. She also highlights some spring flower events where she will be speaking including; Northwest Flower & Garden Festival, and thanks to American Horticultural Society (AHS), you can see her speaking and take one of her workshops at the the Philadelphia Flower Show, the largest show of its kind in the US.
CELEBRATE THE SLOW FLOWERS MOVEMENT
David also discusses with Debra, her American Flowers Week campaign, celebrating American grown flowers in all 50 States and projects she has planned for 2019 like the Slow Flower Summit.
There is a ton of great information in this episode and we invite our listeners to join us in the Green Industry Leaders Network Facebook Group, growing on now. Ask questions related to the episodes, and share industry news and stories with others who are interested in gardening, tree care, landscaping and more.
You can also connect with Debra directly via Facebook and Twitter. Connect with AHS on their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels.
And connect with Chris at Corona Tools to share your thoughts on this episode and provide feedback on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Trees that grow in a natural setting, like the forrest, aren't subjected to the same kinds of stress you find in urban or suburban trees. And the stress on a suburban tree is not the same as the stress of an urban tree. If the same type of tree was in 3 different environments, the overall health and growth would be markedly different.
On this #treechat episode, we welcome Dr. David Coyle, assistant professor in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation at Clemson University.
David discusses how stress affects trees in different environments, how tree pests seem to know no boundaries, the impact of urban and suburban stress on trees, identifying risks and things property owners need to consider before planting trees in their landscape.
You can find Dave’s forest health outreach work at southernforesthealth.net and connect with him on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram where he regularly posts about invasive forest pests, silviculture, and forestry related topics.
And connect with Chris Sabbarese at Corona Tools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
On this #plantchat episode, we discuss the Proven Winners brand, to help shed some light on their plants, operations and what it takes to bring their plants to homeowners and landscapers throughout North America. Our guest is Stacey Hirvela, who is an accomplished horticulturist and marketer at Spring Meadows Nurseries, the company behind the Proven Winners brand.
Stacey provides some background on how the brand was formed and the development of their plants. It's a fascinating story and one that many plant geeks don't know or take the time to think about. Proven Winners does an outstanding job to ensure that the plants and varieties that bear their name, are available when and where you shop.
There is a lot of research and development that goes into their plants so they perform well once you put them into your landscape. While it's not something many homeowners or property managers think about, they can be assured, that if they see the brand on the shelf, the odds are the plant will perform well with proper care and the right location.
If you have questions about the information Stacey shares in this episode or about Proven Winners plants, connect with them on Twitter or Facebook.
And connect with Chris Sabbarese @CoronaTools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
On this #landscapechat episode, we cover the importance of benchmarking to determine the health of your business. It helps a landscape business owner to understand how they stack up with the national industry standards and local competitors.
Managing editor, Kate Spirgen, at Lawn & Landscape Magazine, discusses why benchmarking is necessary to determine if services are profitable and highlight what's not working. For the last 10 years, they have published an annual benchmarking issue dedicated to the helping business owners. It's an essential process that will help determine a successful venture. They also offer an easy to use benchmarking calculator to get you started.
Follow Lawn & Landscape on Twitter and Facebook
Follow Corona Tools on Twitter and Facebook
On this #plantchat episode, the seed sowing frenzy is in full swing this time of year and we caught up with Carol Niec and Kerrie Rosenthal of the Seed Keeper Company to get some insights for proper seed selection, storage and selection. Both Carol and Kerrie are seasoned gardeners who are passionate about seeds and evangelizing the many benefits of planting them.
They discuss the importance of understanding the best time to plant seeds based on your hardiness zone, to knowing how much lighting you get in your yard, soil conditions, types of seeds, to explaining seed lingo and reading seed packets, there is a lot to consider when buying your seeds for the growing season. Knowing your hardiness zones and frost dates is key in maximizing your growing season.
We also share a bit about their annual Seed Keeper Project that recognizes school gardens in every state in the US. It's a great program that gives visibility to importance of educating kids about where food comes from and teaching them lifelong gardening skills. The program begins accepting nominations for school gardens in all 50 state, plus DC through their Facebook page. They, along with the program sponsors, awards one school in each state with a Seed Keeper Deluxe, seeds, snips and other great items.
Connect with Carol and Kerrie on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. And Connect with Chris at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
After closing out 2018 with tech challenges and losing access to recorded podcasts and publishing tools, we wanted to kick off 2019 with some insights on where the Green Industry Leaders Network (GILN) podcast is headed. Based on topics from the popular hashtags on Twitter, #treechat #landscapechat and #plantchat, we're focusing our resources on podcasts.
GILN allows listeners with an interest in our industry, with an opportunity to hear what's going on in the industry and connecting with those who help shape it. We look forward to bringing you topics from Proven Winners, American Horticultural Society, Tree Care Industry Association, Lawn & Landscape Magazine, Jain Irrigation, Ewing and many more.
This episode help provide a roadmap of where we've been and where we're headed but our input from our listeners remain the key to our approach. Tell us what you think of GILN, topics you'd like us to cover and how we shape the future of this industry platform.
Connect with Chris at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Whether you are new to gardening or a seasoned gardener, understanding the principles of planting and pruning are the cornerstone of successful growing. In this episode, we'll cover the basics of what you should know. Regardless on your experience level, this episode has something for everyone.
Chris Sabbarese of Corona Tools shares the basic how-to's, based on tried and true principles. This episode helps to plan before planting, to understand how light moves through your property, the type of soil you have, how well it drains, and understanding how plants grow. Principles of pruning helps to understand how plants grow, why pruning help rejuvenate plants and maintaining their shape. It also covers using the proper tools for healthy cuts and which tools to use.
Want more great tips? Corona offers its principles of pruning and planting guides get them both free from their website.
Have questions about this episode? Connect with Chris at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
In this #plantchat episode, Doug Hall, former editor of Organic Gardening Magazine shares his 8 -step program for successfully growing an organic garden without chemicals. This is another installment from the Growers Success Summit, a how-to series of gardening and landscaping topics.
Doug is an accomplished freelance writer and organic gardener, shares his insights on what organic gardening means, and how to achieve better produce, healthier plants and soil in your garden. While some of these principles may seem basic in nature, Doug presents tips and insights that every gardener can use.
Connect with Chris at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Whether you inherited a tree gone wild by moving into a new home or you've left your tree to grow wild, in this episode, we've got some insights on how to restore and rejuvenate it.
We welcome back Tchukki Andersen, master arborist and certified tree care safety professional for Tree Care Industry Association. She shares tips about the proper tools needed, how to reshape your tree, how much you can remove in a season and some proper pruning techniques. There is also more information their website, treecaretips.org.
Find TCIA, the VoiceofTreecare on Twitter and Facebook
Connect and share this topic with Chris at Corona Tools, using #treechat on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
In part 1 of Demystifying Hydrangeas , we discussed the 6 different types. In part 2, Stacey Hirvela of Proven Winners joins us to talk about reblooming hydrangeas and some facts on their color. If you have ever tried to change it from pink to blue, then this episode can help figure out what will work.
There is a lot of information out there and it can be tricky, if not downright impossible, to get your hydrangea to be the perfect color. Things that are out of your control, like nighttime temperatures, could derail your efforts. Regardless, Stacey shares some sage advise so you can do everything possible to get the hydrangea color you want. At the very least you will still have and amazing shrub in your landscape!
Proven Winners developed an easy to use chart to helps take the mystery out of which one is right for you.
If you have questions along the way, connect with Proven Winners on Twitter or Facebook and ask them.
And connect with Chris Sabbarese @CoronaTools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
If you’re in the landscape business, it’s imperative to know how the industry is performing. The State of the Industry report sheds light on issues in the industry, what services business are offering, and where they see opportunities for growth in the coming year.
As an industry leader, Lawn & Landscape has been tracking this for decades in their State of the Industry report. Each year they survey 1000s of landscape businesses, not just to get a bead on the overall sentiment, but things like; how they feel about the industry, what’s the median revenue being reported, do they foresee growth in the coming year? And so on.
On this episode, we managing editor, Kate Spirgen, at Lawn & Landscape magazine.
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In this episode, we're demystifying the most Googled plant and flower on the planet, the amazing hydrangea. We discuss the different types to help understand where each grows best, the types of flowers they produce and which ones to can prune. Our guest is Stacey Hirvela, of the #1 plant brand, Proven Winners and she helps shed some light on this shrub in this part one of two!
Hydrangeas are a favorite for many gardeners, yet often times they confuse one for another. Different types of hydrangea produce different types of flowers, can thrive in different zones, and have different requirements when it comes to pruning. To prune, or not to prune...?!? It can determine if you'll have beautiful flowers in the spring or not.
The good news is, it's not all that complicated but starting with knowing the kinds of hydrangea available, there is certain to be one for every kind of gardener. Proven Winners developed an easy to use chart to helps take the mystery out of which one is right for you. Once you know the different types of hydrangeas, come back for part 2 to learn tips for growing them.
If you have questions along the way, connect with Proven Winners on Twitter or Facebook and ask them.
And connect with Chris Sabbarese @CoronaTools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
Gardeners quite often mention that they love roses but they are too hard to grow. Or that they take too much time, they don’t have the space to grow them or roses just don’t do well for them. In this episode, we'll cover some basics about roses and how there is a rose out there for everyone!
Our guest is Susan Fox, a.k.a Gaga's Garden, a noted rosarian, who lives in the world of roses. She shares her guarantee, that if you have never grown roses successfully, live in a cold climate or claim you have a black thumb, there is a rose for you. You'll get some great insights on new roses available for gardeners, tips on seasonal care, varieties that will perform well, and great resources like Plantsmap.
Still have questions? Connect with Susan on Twitter and Facebook and Instagram.
Connect with Chris Sabbarese @CoronaTools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
If you've ever had a dispute with the neighbor over and tree, you know it can become a real problem. In this episode, we’ll share some insights on who is responsible for trees and hedges that grow into a neighbor's yard. It's important you know what you can do and what you may be liable for.
We welcome back Tchukki Andersen, master arborist and certified tree care safety professional for Tree Care Industry Association. She shares some insights on what you can do as a homeowner if a neighbor's tree encroaches your yard, or damages your property. The best option is always to talk to your neighbor to find an amicable solution, but it may be necessary to locate a consulting arborist that can help from the American Society of Consulting Arborists. There is also more information in the Tree Care Tips post, Before You Cut Your Neighbor's Tree.
Find TCIA, the VoiceofTreecare on Twitter and Facebook
Connect and share this topic with Chris at Corona Tools, using #treechat on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
With today’s advanced technologies, more people are relying on them for smart automation in all aspects of life. Taking care of our landscapes is also getting a lot easier thanks to the latest smart controllers. This episode debunks some common myths about them for property managers and residential property owners.
On this #landscapechat episode, we welcome back, Michael Derewenko - Marketing Manager for Jain Irrigation. We discuss some common misconceptions about smart controllers and how they help save water and money.
Have questions about this episode or drip smart controllers? Connect with Michael on Twitter @MDSavesWater and Jain's Facebook and Instagram. A check out 6 Smart Controller Myths Debunked the Jain blog,
Connect with Chris Sabbarese @CoronaTools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
It could be argued that soil is the most important aspect for a plant to survive and flourish. Sure without water, a plant will eventually die. Without the right amount of light, too much or too little, it can affect how a plant will perform. However, the right soil condition establishes a foundation for the plant with healthy roots, provides key nutrients and appropriate drainage. Making sure that your soil is the right environment for your plants, will help ensure their performance
On this episode, our guest is Cristina Da Silva, founder of Soil Groundwork, an online resource for information on soil. You can also chat with her live via Twitter on #groundchat on Wednesday at 8PM EST.
You can connect with Cristina via Twitter and Facebook.
Connect with Corona Tools and share your thoughts on this podcast via Twitter and Facebook
Ask any landscape business owner these days, what keeps them up at night, and you are likely to hear, finding and retaining good employees. Demand for landscape service remains high and many business owners are having to turn away jobs due to lack of resources to get the work done. In a booming economy, there are plenty of opportunities for potential candidates, so it’s important to know how to find good talent, and equally important, to know how to retain the great talent you already have.
In this episode, we'll discuss how landscape companies are recruiting and retaining professionals in a tight labor market. Our guest is #landscapechat partner, Kate Spirgen, a managing editor at Lawn & Landscape. Visit their website to get the latest news for Labor and HR issues.
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One topic that gardeners never get tired of chatting about is fruit trees. Whether discussing proper care, or when to fertilize or pruning techniques, many want to know how to get the maximum yield from their fruit trees. However, selecting the right fruit tree for your location, is the first step in the process.
Identifying the right cultivar for your zone, ordering your tree at the right time, and planting it in the right spot at the right time of year, can help ensure a bountiful harvest each season.
Our guest on this #treechat podcast is Susan Poizner. Susan is an urban orchardist, journalist, author of the Award-Winning, Fruit Tree Care Book Growing Urban Orchards and the creator of orchardPeople.com, an online training in fruit tree care. She is also the host of the Urban Forestry Radio show and podcast.
Connect with Susan on Twitter and Facebook
Connect with Chris at Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
You may only think about holiday lighting during the season but, for lighting specialists, it's a year round business. Many landscape contractors offer lighting displays as a service to residential and commercial property managers. With so many different types of lighting options available, customers need to plan ahead. We share some of the best tips and trends in this #landscapechat podcast.
On this episode, we welcome guests, Warren Gorowitz, Vice president of Sustainability and Roger Ramsey, National Specialty Products Manager at Ewing Irrigation and Landscape Supply. Roger "sheds some light" on different types of lighting, products that help making installing them easier, new lighting displays on the horizon and much more. Watch the tree wrapping tips video referenced in the podcast.
The #landscapechat podcast series is based off the live #landscapechat via Twitter on Wednesdays at 11AM/ 2PM ET. You can connect with the guest and podcast hosts through their social network channels with any questions our comments about this episode.
Ewing Irrigation - Twitter, Facebook, Website
Warren Gorowitz - Twitter
Corona Tools - Twitter, Facebook, Website
Proper watering is essential for a thriving garden and an automatic system can help ensure it’s well hydrated. Drip irrigation systems are the most efficient method of delivering water to plants and they are easier than ever to install.
On this #landscapechat episode, our guest is Michael Derewenko, Territory Sales Manager at Jain Irrigation. Michael discusses the mechanics behind drip irrigation systems, how they work, and why they are ideal for delivering the right amount of water that plants need.
He also shares details about Jain's drip irrigation kits, which takes the guess work out of what components are needed by bundling everything a gardener needs to successfully install them. These kits make it easier than ever to install a system directly to an outdoor water source. A complete diagram of what is included in the kit can be downloaded here.
Have questions about this episode or drip irrigation systems? Connect with Michael on Twitter @MDSavesWater and Jain's Facebook and Instagram. You can also visit Jain's website for more installation diagrams.
Connect with Chris Sabbarese @CoronaTools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
On this #landscapechat podcast, guest Kate Spirgen, managing editor at Lawn & Landscape, joins us to celebrate the “goodness of green” or in other words, how green spaces give back to everyone, and how the green industry is giving back to their communities.
Kate also highlights the efforts of one individual, Rodney Smith Jr, who was the cover story of the August 2018 issue. His vision of 50 States/ 50 Lawns has helped out many Americans having difficulty maintaining their yards. And the only thing he asked in return was a selfie with the homeowner to share online.
It's a great inspirational piece, that outlines how one person can make a enormous difference in the world today.
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It’s not something most of us think about on a daily basis. We assume tree in the front yard which has provided shade and beauty over the years, will continue to grow and flourish. Yet plenty of us have seen pictures of trees, that have fallen in a storm, crushing cars or crashing into a house. On this #treechat podcast, we’re going to discuss what property owners can do, to help spot warning signs and when to seek the guidance of knowledgeable tree care professionals.
Our host, Tchukki Andersen, of Tree Care Industry Association, shares her insights on what property owners should be looking for, identifying potential problems, reason a tree might fall and how to locate a knowledgeable professional, on their website treecaretips.org. You can also get TCIA tree care tips in Corona's free Principles of Pruning guide.
Find TCIA, the VoiceofTreecare on Twitter and Facebook
Connect and share this topic with Chris at Corona Tools, using #treechat on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
Selecting the right tool for the job is essential. In this episode, Chris Sabbarese shares the benefits for using the right tool and how to get the most out of them.
We'll cover what to look for when purchasing new tools, the importance of proper care, including how to sharpen your pruner with a Corona tool sharpener, and how to clean and store them.
For more tips and information, download Corona Tool's free guides, Principles of Planting and Principles of Pruning.
Connect with Corona Tools on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube
On this #landscapechat episode, John Gonzales, of Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District (NEORSD) in Cleveland, joins us to talk about community outreach on social media. Their team has been actively engaged in social media since 2009, building reliable followings and promote often-overlooked aspects of clean-water work.
Laurie Loftin of Athens Clark County (ACC) in GA, a #landscapechat partner, interviews John. Sharing insights on how they effectively reach out and engage with the community. It's a great way to help protect the water quality while helping out the environment.
Follow NEORSD on Twitter, Facebook | Follow ACC on Twitter, Facebook | Follow Corona Tools on Twitter and Facebook
If you own a landscape company or work in the green industry, its likely you have thought about the value of social media. Whether to connect with other industry professionals, find new business leads, or find your target audience, Twitter is a great platform to utilize and engage with some of the best in the business.
Lawn & Landscape's Twitter Top 25 list of landscape companies is out and managing editor, Kate Spirgen joins #landscapechat to discuss ways how use this network effectively, tips for tracking relevant industry conversions, and best practices to consider when posting updates.
You check out the Twitter Top 25 list or search for #LLTwitter25.
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On this #treechat episode, we brought in a tree care expert, to help ensure you are giving your tree the right amount of water.
We welcome back Tchukki Andersen, Staff Arborist at Tree Care Industry Association. She’s been with TCIA for 12 years, and is a Board Certified Master Arborist and Certified Treecare Safety Professional.
Look for more information on the TCIA website and TreecareTips.org. You can also find TCIA tree care tips in Corona's free Principles of Pruning guide.
Find TCIA, the VoiceofTreecare on Twitter and Facebook
You can connect and share this topic with Chris at Corona Tools, using #treechat on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
A team of urban beekeepers at Tudor Place, a historic D.C. garden shares what the process is like to get a bee colony set up and established, and tell some great lessons they learned along the way. They also share a sight seldom seen, the queen laying her eggs in the hive, which can be seen here. There is also an article in the Tudor Place Times - Bees are Buzzing Again at Tudor Place. Download this episode featuring Tudor Place guests - Charlotte Germane, Communications Coordinator; Virginia Velez Thaxton, Gardener; and Emma Miniscalco, Seasonal Gardener.
This #plantchat podcast is based off the live chat that takes place via Twitter on Tuesdays at 11AM/ 2PM ET. You can connect with the guest and podcast hosts through their social network channels with any questions our comments about this episode on 7/31/18.
Tudor Place - Twitter, Facebook, Website
Corona Tools - Twitter, Facebook, Website
Sustainability in landscape is literally a growing trend in the green industry. On this #landscapechat episode, Warren Gorowitz from Ewing Irrigation and Landscape Supply, and Christine Kane, CEO Audubon International, discusses sustainability in the green industry, Smart Irrigation Month and announces the new Water & Sustainability Innovation Award. This award will recognize the great achievements in sustainable landscapes and green spaces.
Details about the Water & Sustainability Innovation Award and information to nominate a project can be found on their website.
The #landscapechat podcast series is based off the live #landscapechat via Twitter on Wednesdays at 11AM/ 2PM ET. You can connect with the guest and podcast hosts through their social network channels with any questions our comments about this episode.
Ewing Irrigation - Twitter, Facebook, Website
Warren Gorowitz - Twitter
Audubon International on Twitter, Facebook
Corona Tools - Twitter, Facebook, Website
On this #treechat episode, we’ll explore how to go about selecting conifers, proper planting and staking techniques, and tips growing them successfully. Ron Elardo is our guest and he's an editor at Conifer Quarterly, a publication of the American Conifer Society. He shares some tips he's learned over the years on selecting, planting and maintaining conifers in your garden.
Connect with Ron on Twitter with any questions about the information in the podcast or about conifers in general.
You can connect and share with Chris at Corona Tools, using #treechat on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) is a national organization who is the voice of tree care. They have some great insights on selecting the right tree, for the right spot so that it will grow and thrive. Our guest is TCIA's Tchukki Andersen, who shares tips on planning, selection and what to look for when picking out the right tree for the right spot.
Look for more information on the TCIA website and TreecareTips.org. You can also find TCIA tree care tips in Corona's free Principles of Pruning guide.
Find TCIA, the VoiceofTreecare on Twitter and Facebook
You can connect and share this topic with Chris at Corona Tools, using #treechat on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
We join June Stoyer, host of The Organic View™ Radio Show, at the virtual garden gate. June shares what originally fueled her passion for gardening and her journey for taming her new landscape that’s overgrown with invasive plants. She covers the importance of her organic approach to winning the battle over invasive plants like Japanese Honeysuckle and Poison Ivy. An avid advocate for pollinators, she also shares her insights on avoiding neonicotinoids, known for affecting and decreasing the world’s bee population.
Connect with June at The Organic View™, @TheOrganicView on Twitter and Facebook.
You can connect and share this topic with Chris at Corona Tools, using #landscapechat on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
In this #plantchat episode, we get a first-hand account and recap of the Chelsea Flower Show. Our guest Alison Edwards, of Burgon & Ball garden tools, was on hand at this year’s event to preview the gardens. She provides an inside look into what the show is all about, what takes place during the event, and what it’s like having a product display open to more than 140,000 enthusiastic gardeners.
Check out Alison’s photos and recap of the event on the Burgon & Ball journal (blog) and via Instagram and Twitter.
You can connect and share this topic with Chris at Corona Tools, using #plantchat on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Richard Restuccia, Vice President at Jain Irrigation, Inc with 20 years in irrigation and smart water management, discusses smart irrigation controllers and sustainable landscape. In this #landscaepchat episode, Richard explains why they are important aspect to smart irrigation. He also shares, what makes an irrigation controller smart, types of controllers and decide which one is best for the application, the system data it provides, and key drivers of implementation.
Connect with Richard Restuccia for any questions on Twitter, @H2oTrends and on the Jain Irrigation blog.
Connect with Chris Sabbarese @CoronaTools on social networks including Twitter and Facebook.
Lawn & Landscape's Top 100 list of landscape companies is out and managing editor, Kate Sprigen joins #landscapechat to tell us how the list comes together. Kate shares what it takes to make the list, the process for consideration and how the list has changed over the years.
You can download the Top 100 list and the annual benchmarking tools Kate mentions on Lawn & Landscape website.
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Warren Gorowitz of Ewing Irrigation joins Chris of Corona Tools to discuss what it means for businesses to support it's community. Giving back to organizations in need helps provide access to things they likely can't do on their own. Whether do to funds or the necessary resources. Warren shares what their Ewing Pride projects mean to the company as well as him personally, how it came to be and the benefits of helping.
The #landscapechat podcast series is based off the live #landscapechat via Twitter on Wednesdays at 11AM/ 2PM ET. You can connect with the guest and podcast hosts through their social network channels with any questions our comments about this episode.
Ewing Irrigation - Twitter, Facebook, Website
Warren Gorowitz - Twitter
Corona Tools - Twitter, Facebook, Website
American Horticultural Society interviews David Mizejewski, spokesperson for the National Wildlife Federation about Garden for Wildlife™ movement. Beth Tuttle, president and CEO of American Horticultural Society, a founding partner of #plantchat, interviews David to learn more about this fantastic program that engages approximately 7 million wildlife gardeners throughout the US.
Podcast Resources - Be sure to connect with our host and guest on all their websites and social media networks.
American Horticultural Society - visit their website and connect on Twitter and Facebook
David Mizejewski for the National Wildlife Federation - visit his website to for upcoming appearances, books and connect with him on social networks.
Corona Tools - Moderator - visit our website and connect on Twitter and Facebook
Viveka of American Horticultural Society interviews Chris Sabbarese of Corona Tools about the essential tools for gardeners.
Connect with AHS at ahsgardening.org and Corona Tools at coronatoolsusa.com