Location: Annapolis, Md. Company: Walnut Hill Landscape Co. The clients asked for a private space that would lend itself well to outdoor entertaining and also feature a dining area, spa, swimming pool, cabana and an outdoor kitchen. They also requested plants that would offer optimal spring and fall interest. The site presented a challenge due to the relatively small space—roughly... read more
The outdoor living boom has created demand for water features to swell in recent years. “People are drawn to water and naturally enjoy sitting by and listening to it,” says Demi Fortuna, director of product information at Atlantic Water Gardens, a water feature manufacturer based in Mantua, Ohio. Water features can be a smart add-on for many landscape contractors. There... read more
When we talk about sales in the commercial landscape world we use the term business to business (B2B), which implies that we are businesses selling to businesses. B2B sales is a bit of a misnomer or sterile way to describe this category of sales. Over my years in the landscape industry, I have learned that businesses don’t make decisions. People... read more
“If I had a popcorn stand on Courthouse Square, I would have a board,” said Marty Grunder, quoting one of his mentors, Clay Mathile, former CEO and owner of The Iams Co. His point? You don’t need to be a large company or wait until “you have your act together” before you create a board. Grunder, president and CEO of... read more
People tend to feel strongly about issues that are relevant or personally meaningful to them, their lives and their unique circumstances. When appropriately channeled, these feelings can be inspirational and motivational to others. In the workplace, though, a person’s promotion and manifestation of strongly held beliefs can alienate other team members and cause friction. This tension is what Hayden McLaughlin... read more
Welcome to fall and to my first column in Landscape Management. I will be here each month, sharing with you my insights as CEO of Grunder Landscaping Co. (GLC) and as a coach and consultant to ambitious landscape pros all over the country. I am always looking for ways to get better and grow as a leader and business person,... read more
