Psst! Hey mister; wanna buy some seed? A practical look at the national turfgrass trials and how the lawn care pro can use them BY CHRIS SANN You have read all the available information. You've talked to your suppliers. You've requested and received the latest advertising from growers, some of the sales material prominently displaying how certain varieties fared in national turf trials. Now you are about to make a seed buying decision of several thousand dollars. Is there any good way of determining whether that number-one rated turf seed that you're about to spend good money on is really the best suited variety for your needs? The answer is yes The periodically issued National Turfgrass Evaluation Program progress reports contain not only those highly prized tur-fgrass quality rating listsŠ See SEED on page 15 LTFWN GIRE MDUSTRY Serving the needs of the professional lawn care operator SEPTEMBER 1991 VOLUME 15 NUMBER 9 No quick fixes for turf waste Letting grass clippings lie where they fall, doesn't please some clients, report LCOs BY JAMES E. GUYETTE r | omposting may be an alternative for turf managers who wonder where they can put their yard wastes. The concern is real as more and more landfills refuse this type of refuse. For some, the movement to encourage customers to let clippings lie just doesn't fly. Plus, there's still the problem of brush disposal. The mulching mower does not seem to be the ultimate solution to the clipping problem either. "It doesn't hold true in every situation," says Don Keller, owner of Keller's Tree and Shrub Care Inc., Independence, MO. The planting of zoysiagrass, heavy rainfall or aggres-sive fertilizing can make trouble for this type of mower. "Sometimes it works really well and sometimes it doesn't work very well," says Keller. Other LCOs, those that mow and dispose of clippings, have found farmers willing to accept some turfgrass debris. But there are laws governing even this is some areas. The problem of lawn wastes, specifically clippings, is growing. See FIXES on page 8 "Meet the Challenge" in Tampa, FL, Nov. 18-21 TAMPA, FLŠMeet the Challenge is the theme of the Professional Lawn Care Association of America's 12th annual conference here November 18-21. The PLCAA conference runs in conjunction with the Green Industry Expo (GIE), the joint trade show of PLCAA, the Associated Landscape Contractors of America and the Professional Grounds Management Society. The PLCAA conference starts Sunday, Nov. 17, in the new Tampa Convention Center with both morning and afternoon sessions. A full slate of workshops fill the following Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Monday evening, Nov. 18, all exhibitors and regis-trants may attend the GIE reception. Tuesday evening there is a new and prospec- tive member reception fol-lowed by a live auction. The conference concludes Thursday, Nov. 21, with an outdoor demonstration of turf and landscape equip-ment at Horizon Park. For more information contact PLCAA, 1000 Johnson Ferry Road NE, Suite C135, Marietta, GA 30068. LCI i niuf nut i m m i m ******* j-ylblT Hilo mJ lij? ÚÜMüal¿¿ la 1J Pt.TCOOJCINbHAfl LIJKAKY iliŠ le 1 üiüA TLäFGKASS INFO FILE ilb 3 ¡n rilCHIbAN ¿TATE UNIV H EAST LANSINb Í1I 4ääE4-lü4ö PLCAA G'cycling plan offered to cities MARIETTA, GAŠ A new 20-page Grasscycling Community Action Plan gives members of the Professional Lawn Care Association of America (PLCAA) a way to help cities out of their landfill problems. The information is designed specifically for local governments. It includes ideas and advice form PLCAA members, the See PLAN on page 16 Composting, is it an opportunity to help clients with their grass clipping disposal problems? Pictured here is a sizable commercial operation by the Kurtz Brothers, Cleveland. Photo by Terry Mclver. WWN OIRE INDUSTRY 2 MEMOS LAWN CARE INDUSTRY SEPTEMBER 1991 Add Pennsylvania to the grow-ing list of states discovering lawn care as a new tax source. When Gov. Casey signed that state's $14 billion budget in August, it included a new six percent sales tax on professional lawn care services, including mowing and chemical treatments. "Well, at least they might listen to us now," commented Paul DeAngelo, Lawn Specialities, Hazleton. "They esti- mate they'll get at least $8 million from us." Bad news for people living in Lyme Disease areas? The New York Department of Environmental Conservation says products contain- ing high percentages of N, N,-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET) cause rashes on some people. The DEC wants to ban the sale of bug repel- lents containing more than 30 per- cent DEET Public health experts say DEETŠcontaining products pro-tect people against the deer tick which carries Lyme Disease. Westchester County, New York, is America's Lyme Disease capital. California wants legislation to reduce pesticide use in schools. Proposition 65 contains a growing list of substances the state (apart from what the U.S. EPA feels) thinks carries potential risk of can- cer or reproductive harm Products on the list, would need a label say-ing they cannot be used at schools. Included on the list, in addition to pesticides, are many disinfectants and sanitizers. Say what? The Foliage for Clean RON HALL Editor-in-Chief MAUREEN HREHOCIK Group Editor JON MIDUCKI Publisher ROBERT. E. EARLEY Group Vice President TERRIE FREAR Production Manager ROSY BRADLEY Senior Production Manager JUDY ALLEN Group Marketing Manager KEN McSHANE Production Director PHIL RUSSELL Graphic Designer MARILYN COPP Senior Circulation Clerk GAIL PARENTEAU Reader Service Manager BUSINESS STAFF Midwest Office: JON MIDUCKI (216) 826-2855 Publisher ANNE LANGHENRY (216) 891-2739 Regional Sales Manager 7500 Old Oal. Blvd. Cleveland, OH 44130 FAX (216) 891-2683 Southern Office: DICK GORE (404) 233-1817 FAX (404) 261-7022 3475 Lenox Road, N.E., Ste. 665 Atlanta, GA 30326 Western Office: BOB MIEROW (206) 783-0549 FAX (206) 784-5545 1515 N.W. 51 Street Seattle WA 98107 Classified: DAWN NILSEN (218) 723-9349 1 E. First St.. Duluth, MN 55802 Please send advertising matenal to: LAWN CARE INDUSTRY 120 W Second St. Duluth. MN 55802 (218) 723-9465 RICHARD B. SWANK. Chairman RICHARD MOCLLER, President LARS FLADMARK, Executive Vice Pres ARLAND HIRMAN, Vice Pres ./Treasurer JAMES A. ADLER, Vice President JOE BILDERBACH. Vice President DAVID T. MAYER, Vice President BRIAN NAIRN, Vice President PHIL STOCKER, Vice President LCI ADVISORY COUNCIL LAWN CARE INDUSTRY (ISSN 0160-6042) is published monthly by Edgell Communica-tions. Inc Corporate and Editorial Offices: Air Council is a non-profit organiza-tion. It promotes the use of plants to improve air quality, and recently added four new exterior plants to its list of "clean air machines"Š Ligustrum, Photinia, Variegated Liriope and Variegated Pittosporium. $2.4 million. That's how much officials in Passaic County in north- ern New Jersey think they can save in landfill costs by convincing the 450,000 people there not to bag their grass clippings. They hope to divert 25,000 tons of clippings from local landfills. Date change for Gerogia Turfgrass Conference. The 22nd GA conference and show is Dec. 10-12, 1991, at the Georgia International Convention and Trade Center, Hyatt Atlanta Airport. It had been set to start a day earlier but there was a space conflict. Questions? Contact the extension conference office 912/681-5189. Attention! Karen S. Weber, a for-mer Army public affairs specialist, is the new communications coordinator of the Professional Lawn Care Association of America. Weber is a graduate of the University of Georgia. The final tally is in: 11 states participated in PLCAA's National Lawn Care Month in 1991 were Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, North Dakota, and Virginia. Sold out. The Mid-Am Horticultural Trade Show, Jan. 16-18, 1992, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, sold 66,957 square feet of exhibit space, all that was available. Help from above. Trimble Navigation, Sunnyvale, CA, says farmers can look to the heavens for guidanceŠfrom satellites. The com-pany promotes a system combining computerized maps, infrared photog-raphy and scanning devices to pin-point soil types, crop stress, weed infestations, plant diseases and insect damage. The information is computerized and placed on a tractor equipped with an antenna, which is guided from an unseen satellite to make precise application of materi- als, says Trimble Navigation. Just Say No!. Arizona Governor Fife Symington said "NO" to that state's 8 1/2% surtax on "environ- mentally hazardous" household prod-ucts which included non-ag pesti- cides, oven cleaners, spot removersŠ just about everything with more than a molecule. Industry said the list included lots of things that pose no environmental hazards. Fresno-based Western Agricultural Publishing Company, which publishes California Landscape Magazine, will now also publish Florida Nurseryman, former-ly put out by the Florida Nurserymen and Growers Association (FNGA). The regional publication has about 8,000 monthly readers. LCI CSMA committee head urges FTC to take lead with environmental claims n BARRY TROUTMAN Massey Services Orlando. R A. J. POWELL JACK ROBERTSON U. of Kentucky Robertson Lawn Care Lexington. KY Springfield, IL 7500 Old Oak Boulevard, Cleveland, Ohio 44130. Advertising offices: 7500 Old Oak Boulevard. Cleveland. Ohio 44130, 233 North Michigan Avenue, 24th Floor, Chicago. Illinois 60601 and 3475 Lenox Road N.E. Suite 665 Atlanta, Georgia 30326. Accounting, Advertising Production and Circulation offices: 1 East First Street. Duluth. Minnesota 55802 Subscription rates: $30 per year in the United States, $55 per year in Canada. All other countries $100 per year Current single issue copies (pre-paid only): $3.00 in the U.S.; $6.00 in Canada, elsewhere $10.; add $3 50 for shipping and handling per order. Back issues, if available $10; add $3.50 per order for shipping and handling (pre-paid orders only). Office of publication: Edgell Communications, Inc., 1 East First Street, Duluth. Minnesota 55802 Second class postage paid at Duluth. Minnesota 55806. Copyright <5> 1991 by Edged Communications, Inc. All rights reserved No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical includ-ing photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without permis- sion in writing from the publisher POSTMASTER: Send address changes to LAWN CARE INDUSTRY. 1 East First Street, Duluth. Minnesota 55802-9989 ABP VBPA Ariens honored for reducing waste BRILLION, WIŠMower manufacturer Ariens Company, earned a Wisconsin Business Friend of the Environment Award for its environmental efforts in manufacturing. The company was recog-nized for cutting waste dis-posal by 70%, electricity for lighting by 30%, overall energy consumption by 6% and water use by 60%. In the manufacturing process, Ariens recycles vir-tually every scrap of metal and uses only powder coat-ings which emit no volatile fumes and create less waste. The company also has a recycling program that keeps all paper prod- ucts from entering the the stream. LCI TREE SHOW SET COLUMBUS, OHIOŠThe second annual trade show of TREE CARE INDUSTRY magazine will be at the Ohio Center here Dec. 5-7. The seminar program for TCI Expo 91 focuses on management and field per-sonnel too. Contact Tom Clancy 800-733-2622. LCI WASHINGTON, D.C.Š Enforcement of marketing claims should come from the national level and not from each state. That's part of what Richard Bednarz, repre-senting the chemical indus-try, told the Federal Trade Commission in hearings earlier this summer. Bednarz, from Amway Corporation and chairman of a labeling committee for the Chemical Specialty Manufacturers Association, urged the FTC to take the lead in the enforcement of truthful advertising, partic-ularly environmental claims. "We strongly believe this issue must be addressed immediately," said Bednarz. The current lack of a standard set of definitions for commonly used terms such as recyclable, recycled content, refillable and reusable has resulted in confusion among consumers as to what these terms mean, and confusion among manufacturers as to which standard or definition to adhere to, testified Bednarz. He said industry favors general guidelines rather than specific or technical standards. "Because the technology associated with environ- mental claims is rapidly changing, guidelines should be flexible enough to be applicable to future claims," said Bednarz. "The commission should continue with case-by-case investigations and enforce-ment of the misuse of envi- ronmental claims. Investigations should target specific violators," he said. Endangered Species Act set for '93 ARLINGTON, VAŠThe national Endangered Species Program should be in place sometime in 1993. Larry Turner, Ph.D., EPA program man-ager, told senior golf industry officials at a special forum here earlier this summer the program: Łwill rely on county bulletins with maps showing areas where endangered species are present, Łwill outline restrictions on chemical use in and around these areas, Łwill require that chemical labels tell applicators to consult the county bulletins. The bulletins, being developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, will be available through county extension. Turner told the representatives of the GCSAA that states will have leeway to develop "landowner agreements" that allow the landowner to work out an ongoing man-agement plan that would not require con-tacting the extension service before each chemical application. LCI LAWN CARE INDUSTRY SEPTEMBER 1991 WÊlÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊKÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊKÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊKÊÊKÊÊÊKKÊÊKÊKÊÊÊÊÊÊm wmm FROM THE FIELD 3 We might find that we like each other BY CHRIS SANN Some golf course super-intendents think LCOs are crude, ignorant, ex-used car salesmen who wouldn't know good turf management if it crawled up their pant legs and bit them on their rear ends. Some LCOs think super-intendents are over-paid, prima donnas that live in the rarefied, monied atmo-sphere of country clubs and wouldn't recognize reality if it ran over them with a Cushman. The truth is both the LCO and the superinten-dent have a lot more in com-mon than either admits. Certainly, you find them in different "theatres", but frequently with basically the same actors and, increasingly, they're follow-ing the same script. It's a tough world The LCO feelsŠusually justifiablyŠthat his cus-tomers are subjected to the constant pleadings of com-petitors. The LCO business style, he's convinced him- self, is frantic with hardly enough time (or fingers) to plug all the holes in the dike. On the other hand, the golf course superintendent must listen to a tirade from an idiot brother-in-law, head of the Greens Committee, who blames a missed a putt on the super-intendent's turf ineptitude. After all, the brother-in-law, dropped a cool $100 because the putt rolled left. The superintendent knows he's put upon upon because of the thousands of feet stomping down his prized grass, while every disease passing within 10 miles finds a home on his close-mowed turf. Despite the differences, both have to deal with prod-uct costs doubling in less than 10 years, equipment costs tripling in less than 15, employees with little or no experience who demand ridiculous pay (and show up at their convenience). And, here's the topper: both can't seem to ever dig out from under a growing mountain of paperwork, fallout from a blizzard of federal, state and now local regulations. So why the crabbing? Strip away petty jeal-ousies and posturing, carp-ing about motives, conde-scending attitudes and hurt feelings and we LCOs and superintendents have lots in common. Both of us are in turf management because we know we contribute some-thing very positive to oth- ers. We understand that the turf we manage produces oxygen and humus, traps tons of particulates, filters water of impurities, stabi-lizes the soil, and absorbs rainfall and dramatically reduces runoff. And we know that healthy, growing turf does all this better than poor turf. We know these things and we're not even yet addressing the "feel good" issues of turfgrass. We know in the truest sense that we're ecologists, practicing ecologists. We know that most of our critics don't understand just how vital "good" turf is to our way of lifeŠecologi- cally, psychologically, and recreationally. They don't want to hear. They're not interested in facts at all. Some have agendas, like fund raising and getting elected, etc. It's time, long overdue, we in the turf management business put aside our dif-ferences, whether real or perceived, and speak in a single voice. There's a lot we can say to challenge half truths, bad science and scare tac-tics. There's a lot we can do to get fairer representation in the media. Together we can get more of the atten-tion of law makers at every level. We might even find we like each other. Chris Sann is operator of Complete Lawn Service, Wilmington, DE. LCI OFTANOL USERS KNOW THE BEST WAY TO OUTSMART GRUBS IS WITH A LITTLE EXTRA HOMEWORK. Getting rid of grubs that attack your cus-tomers' lawns can be pretty tricky some-times. Unfortunately, simply treating against these destructive pests doesn't always guar-antee success. But many lawn care oper-ators have learned that all it takes to outsmart grubs is a little preparation Šfinding the right product and the right time of year for appli-cation. The product is OFTANOL® Insecticide. Studies show that time after time, OFTANOL provides consis- tent grub control. And delivers superior control over widely used products such as Sevin® and Diazinon Insecticides. The right time to apply it? That will vary from region to region. But a good rule of thumb is ©1991 Mobay Corporation PERCENTAGE OF CONTROL OFTANOL Sevin Diazinon Insecticide Insecticide SOURCE: 18 trials conducted by Mobay in 1990 to treat with OFTANOL when grubs are at the surface. An easy way to check is by just pulling back a bit of sod and looking for infestation. Or call your local Extension office to determine peak periods of grub feeding in your area. These are, of course, just the basics of effective grub control. If you'd like to learn more about OFTANOL and its proper usage, contact your local Mobay representative. Or just give us a call at (800) 842-8020. One of our trained pro-fessionals will be standing by to answer your ques-tions. Mobay Corporation, Specialty Products Group, Box 4913, Kansas City, MO 64120. So why let grubs continue to test your patience when the easy answer is OFTANOL. Mobay A Bayer USA INC COMPANY OFTANOL is a Reg TM of Bayer AG, Germany Sevin is a Reg TM of Rhone-Foulenc Ag Company 912690 Circle No. 102 on Reader Inquiry Card 4 UPFRONT LAWN CARE INDUSTRY SEPTEMBER 1991 UPFRONT The end of ¿¿/signals beginning of something better BY RON HALL editor At 53° north latitude in late August the sun slips away reluctant-ly. It leaves with a long sigh. As events would have it, I'm taking the long way home too, threading through the peaks and crags here in the Canadian Rockies. So impossibly fis- sured by shadow just an hour earlier, they've faded to profile. They're two dimensional. Like they've been hacked from mon-strously large sheets of con- struction paper. Black paper. Oh, by the way, this is the final issue of LAWN CARE INDUSTRY. (It's easy to write this one sentence, but it's been agonizingly hard to write this one last column.) I stop the car on that mountain road Šlights offŠand step out into the night. After all I haven't seen another car in, what, 40 minutes? The airport is miles away yet. I have to step out. Too many thoughts are banging into each other for a share of my conscious- ness. ("Some things don't have to be remembered. They remember them-selves"ŠWilliam Least Heat Moon.). This jumble of whatifs and coulduvs is the stuff of long-haul trucking, after the radio is clicked off. Thoughts are coming in all sizes , shapes and colorsŠ thought Polaroids They seep that quickly into focus. Stretch the legs; uncoil the back; loosen the shoul-ders. A bigger picture I'm seeking a perspective that comes easier with sev- eral chestfulls of cool, dry air and even a moment or two of absolutely nothing else. The night mountain sky is a vast bowl, and, as if a rock had tumbled from the mountain face and landed on my head, I see how incredibly small and inter-dependent the world is becoming, the political and business worlds particular- ly. We can thank telecom-munication satellites., fiber optics, and micro chips for shrinking these worlds to the size of a pea. But, more precisely, we can thank common inter- ests. That, in a very real sense, is why this is the last issue of LCIŠin this form at least. We're changing We think (and from a dol-lars and cents viewpoint, so do our advertisers) that the LCO is now in the main- stream of the green indus-try, that the LCO is a vital player in the total land- scape services market. In fact, the term lawn care operator probably isn't accurate anymore. Increasingly, I've become uneasy about using it and have only done so for conve-nience. The professional lawn care provider in 1991 is vastly more sophisticated and knowledgeable than he/she was just a few short years ago. The readers of LCI are way beyond being described as nozzleheads or spray jockeys. The services they provide are so much more valuable to their clients. I rarely hear these terms used anymore. Publishing is very much a business too., We must change as you've changed. Beginning in October, you'll find much of the same information that you've been getting in LCI the past 15 years in our sister publi-cation, LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT. I'll be one of three editors on that magazine, and LM Editor-in-Chief Jerry Roche's (many of you met him first as editor of LCI nine years ago) marching orders are firm: target the information, make it as use-ful to professional lawn providers as possible, andŠhe was insistent on this oneŠbe concise. Fewer words, more info That's fine with me. I'm convinced that you'll appreciate it too. As busy as you are, you've told us, often face to face, that you don't need, nor do you want more read- ing material. You want more information, and information that's more timely, more focused and easier to retrieve and use. We didn't have to climb to the top of any mountain to make this decision, but, collectively, we've all had to step back and take a few deep breaths (with some significant soul searching and expense) to recognize the growing interdepen-dence of the various seg-ments of the green industry services market. We're all in this together. I'm confident we'll all prosper together. LCI VA TURF SHOW SET SEPT. 17-19 BLACKSBURG, VAŠThe Virginia Tech Turf and Landscape Field Days is Sept 17-19 at the Virginia Tech Campus here. Contact J.R. Hall III, 703/231-5797. The 32nd Virginia Turf & Landscape Conference and Trade Show will be January 13-16, 1992, at the Richmond Centre and Richmond Marriott, Richmond, VA. Contact Randeen Tharp 804/340-3473. LCI Caution: well on property Contaminating a well with lawn care chemicals is possible but the risk is small if the applicator uses his head and follows the product labels BY JAMES E. GUYETTE Taking some simple precau-tions can keep LCOs out of trouble in treating properties with wells. "As we see it the risk (ground-water contamination) from lawn care products, if they're used cor-rectly, is relatively small," says Jack Kramer, lab manager at Heidelberg College Water Quality Laboratory, Tiffin, Ohio. Much of the risk of contamination "depends on the quality of well construction and the surrounding aquifer," he says. Naturally, Kramer says, LCOs must read and follow label instruc-tions. "The best insurance against ground water contamination is to just follow the label recommenda-tions," says John J. Bria, manager at Alpine Lawn care in Brewster, NY. "And," he continues, "we don't over-fertilize." Bria adds that because his company uses slow-release nitrogen products "100 percent of what we apply is plant-available. Leaching is mini-mized. It doesn't get dis-solved in the soil or washed away." Two things protect groundwater from contami-nation, says Karen Mancl, water quality specialist at John Bria, right, manager of Alpine Lawn Care, reviews safety records and state regulations Ohio State University. with Michael Cook, left, director of safety, and Vince Boccumini, center, assistant manager. "Most people underesti-springs. Chemicals aren't ground-water's biggest foe. mate the cleansing properties of soil," she says. As water seeps through the ground into the aquifer, contaminants are filtered and diluted. Also, Mancl says, well water doesn't move much. If one area does become polluted, the contamination doesn't spread as it would in a lake or stream. More than two million Ohio resi-dents rely on wells, cisterns or Bacteria bigger threat "By far, bacteria is the number one problem in Ohio's well water," says Mancl. Forty percent of the state's wells show levels of coliform bacteria which indicate a threat of water-borne disease. In contrast, only 0.01 percent of well water has been found to con-tain pesticides in any significant amount, she says. "Although bacterial contamina-tion is more common, a few wells and springs contain traces of organ-ic chemicals, such as pesticides," she reports. "Those that do have chemicals in them are usually the result of the owner's carelessness. For instance a farmer may take a pesticide in its container near a well to dilute it. The pesticide could 5 LAWN CARE INDUSTRY SEPTEMBER 1991 splash or back-siphon and get into the well, and that's enough to con-taminate drinking water." Far less common are wells con-taminated by chemicals that have worked their way through the soil, says Mancl. But it's possible., especially in porous or sandy soils. When chemi-cals move quickly through the soil, they don't have enough time to break down into safer substances before reaching groundwater. Heidelberg College's Kramer says groundwater contamination issues can get tricky. "These are very complicated questions," notes Kramer, "and it depends on what chemicals you are using." Some chemicals, such as nitrate nitrogen, can "slide" through soils, while others get tied up right away. "If it moves through the soils it could wind up in the wells," says Kramer. A safe distance "If the material is kept from get-ting near the well, it won't get in it. The ag people are saying, if you're making it or mixing it, be at least 50 feet away from your well. And applying it is the same thing.," says Kramer. While it may not be practical to treat a lawn when you have to stop 50 feet from a well, LCOs can assess any obvious risk by checking out the workmanship and location of the well. "It (contamination) hasn't been a problem when the well's been prop-erly constructed," says Kramer. Beware of sandy soils and shal-low shafts. With a 15-foot well in sandy ground, "you can bet your bottom buck that whatever you put on there is likely to wind up in what you drink," says Kramer. Is it a good well? Check to see of the well meets modern standards. "If great grand-pa put that well out there in 1906 it probably is not too good." The well should have a casing made of steel or plastic pipe, and that casing should extend above the ground. Use caution if the casing appears overly rusted. Look to see that the ground slopes away from the well head "Most people underestimate the cleansing property of soil"ŠKaren Mancl, water quality specialist at Ohio State University Shigo workshop LOUISVILLE, KYŠDr. Alex Shigo will put on a one-day workshop about "new tree biology" here in November. He is appearing during the 21st annual educational conference of The National Institute on Park and Grounds Management, Nov. 17-20. Contact the Institute at P.O. Box 1936, Appleton, WI 54913. 414/733-2301. LCI Desert show Dec. LAS VEGAS, NVŠDesert Turfgrass/Landscape Conference, Dec. 11-13, Caesars Palace. Desert Turfgrass Conference and Show, P.O. Box 94857, Las Vegas, NV 89193. 702/739-8500. LCI and that no pud- dle is around the base. Is the well capped? "It should not be open to the air. It should be cov-ered," says Kramer. Be especially concerned if you see an old, unused well or a "wish-ing well" on the property. It proba- bly goes down to the same water table. Bria at Alpine Lawn care has yet to come across an old well on any of the properties, but "if we encoun-tered a situation like that we'd treat it as an open body of water." If a well appears to be a risky proposition, check with your county extension agent or the local health department before treating, Kramer suggests. Under normal conditions prospective customers should not be alarmed over having a well on their property, Bria notes, adding that in his New York yards the wells are sunk some 300 feet and the pump is at the bottomŠfar out of reach of any lawn treatments. "When people look at the location of the pump their fears are eliminated." If a customer or neighbor hap-pens to accuse you of contaminating a well, have a water analysis done by a disinterested third party. The water should be checked for col-iform bacteria, nitrates, pH and total dissolved solids as well as pes-ticides. With the dissolved solids, any-thing above 500 milligrams per liter indicates a problem and the need for more specific tests. With nitrate nitrogen, children less than a year old should not drink water containing more than 10 milligrams per liter. A bad well could become contam-inated from many sources: leaking fuel tank, coal mining, gas and oil drilling, road salt, landfills, sludge use or septic systems. Find out if the homeowner has been having the well tested each year. If not, it might be difficult to prove that you are the cause of any problem. The pollution could have happened before you got the account. LCI Groundwater contamination precaution just one part of responsible pesticide programs Davey Tree acted on entire pesticide issueŠincluding storage, mixing, use T» X c |he Davey Tree Expert Co., Kent, Ohio, is doing all it can to reduce the possibility of groundwater contamination. The company: Łdeveloped tree and lawn care programs (and appli-cation products to support the programs) to drastically reduce pesticide use; Łtrains and supports its field personnel; Łis improving and expanding its pesticide storage and mixing facilities; "If we only apply products where the pests are, it reduces the likelihood of any type of groundwater con-tamination," says Kathy Zahirsky, company coordina-tor of environmental programs. By implementing its company-wide program of pest mapping and monitoring, and then spot treating with its company-designed Customizer spray gun, Davey says it reduced pesticide use by 75% over several years. Also, Davey crews receive extensive training in all aspects of lawn and tree care and how it relates to the environment. A homeownerŠor a homeowner's neigh-borŠwho has fears over chemicals getting into a well system is given consideration, she says. "If there are any concerns by the client we would keep away from the well head," she points out. With Davey's Plant Health Care Program, "we're looking at lawn care through an IPM approach," says Zahirsky. "It seems to be working just fine. The customer par-ticularly likes our approach because it's not a blanket approachŠit's targeted at specific weeks. Less pesti-cides are used, yet it still controls the weed problem." When the Customizer was introduced into test mar-kets in 1987, herbicide use was cut 50 percent and insecticide use about 36 percent. In 1988 it was esti-mated that 16,000 gallons of lawn herbicides would be needed, yet actual use fell to 7,600 gallons. A projected use of 3,300 gallons of lawn insecticides dropped to 1,930 gallons. "I think we've made Davey more attractive" to envi-ronmentally conscious home owners," says Zahirsky. "They're all for less use of pesticides as long as it can solve the problem." Concern over groundwater contamination is not just practiced on the lawns. Care is taken on the road and at headquarters too. "If there's any type of spill or discharge we contain it as much as possible on concrete. We try to keep it on concrete and out of drains whenever possible," says Zahirsky. Some Davey branches have recycling systems for washing out tanks, and more are on the way. "We have several wash-recycle systems in states that have not yet mandated them," she notes. "The rinse water is recycled into a holding tank." Precautions are taken in chemical storage too, she says. LCI Coalition aim to get pesticide regs out of hands of localités WASHINGTON, D.C.ŠThe battle cry is "uniformity" in pesticide leg-islation. The crusader is a coalitionŠper-haps the largest ever formedŠof chemical manufacturers, distribu-tors, and end users. The coalition's goal is to get the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) amended to specifically preempt towns and cities from passing their own pesti-cide rules. The alliance is industry's response to a June U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowing local political subdivisions to draft their own pes-ticide-use regulations. Specifically, the Supreme Court ruled that FIFRA did not forbid Manufacturers local political subdivisions from making pesticide laws. Involved in the coalition are rep-resentatives from: ŁAgricultural Commodity Coalition, ŁAmerican Association of Nurserymen, ŁChemical Association, ŁChemical Producers and Distributors Association, ŁChemical Specialities Manufacturers Association, ŁNational Agricultural Chemicals Association, ŁNational Pest Control Association, ŁProfessional Lawn Care Association of America, ŁResponsible Industry for a Sound Environment. "The June 21 court ruling paves the way for cities and towns to adopt regulations regarding pesti-cide sales and use which may very well conflict with state or federal rules already imposed on manufac-turers, applicators and dealers," reports Executive Newswatch, a publication from the Chemical Specialties Manufacturers Association. The CSMAŠand other industry groupsŠmaintains that FIFRA, the nation's primary pesticide law since 1972, permits state regulation of pesticide sale and use but does not address regulation by local jurisdic-tions. LCI 6 LAWN CARE INDUSTRY SEPTEMBER 1991 You shall know your customer and it will make you succeed! Some thoughts on how to conduct your own market research (and not spend a fortune getting it done). BY JOHN ROGERS T here are many low-cost ways to learn about potential cus-tomers. a brief questionnaire with your invoice mailing, or put it in every piece of literature you hand the cus-tomer. The purpose of the quickie ques-tionnaire is to smoke out any cus-tomer dissatisfaction or, converse- ly,.to discover what your strong points are. Some sample questions for this brief survey are: ŁHow did we treat you ŁDid we keep all our promises? You can turn to the suppliers of the products you use, your local chamber of commerce, or the local press, all of whom may have free-for-the-asking surveys of cus-tomers. These will give you demographic details such as age, education, home ownership, etc. But you must learn more about prospects than just vital statistics. To intelligently plan your sales and advertising, you need information about buying habits and attitudes. Do it yourself? A professional research firm, at considerable expense, will do a study just for you. | But less expensive and perhaps better would be to do your own by mail, phone or in dissatisfaction or to discover your person. That's because you should have a better feel for the kinds of Mail surveys useful The next step is to decide who to survey. Professional researchers call this the "sample" or the portion of the "universe" which is your entire service area. Mail surveys lend themselves readily to do-it-yourself market research, but you'll need a mailing list. Your regular customer list is handy but, then, you won't learn anything about your prospects, just your customers. Direct mail houses offer a broad variety of mail lists, some just for your service area. You can select among respondent homeowners, upper income, etc. The direct mail firm will even do the mailing, for you. The cost would be about 42 cents per name, including labeling envelopes, inserting, sealing, and postage., more of course if postage rises again. Cost estimates Response to a mail ques-tionnaire usually is about five percent. If you want a response of 200, that means a mailing of 4,000. Cost would be $1,680 for mailing 4,000. Added to that would be $240 for paper and envelopes. For each postage-paid response you would pay 65 cents using your own mailing permit or that of the mail house, where the respondent mails free and the post office charges you per response. So it would be $130 for a response of 200. Total of mail- ing and response expenses The purpose of the quickie u uc iaj iiu yum , Ł Ł Ł . j - - nit; anu resuunse e a utilises study, whether questionnaire is to smone out customer wo—ld be $2* 050 or $10 per response for the 200. strong points. clients you want, certainly about your industry., than any profession-al surveyor. Incidentally, when it comes to costs, consider asking your suppli- ers for co-op funding. Why not? Results will help you sell their products better and they should be grateful if you share results. Invoice stuffer The simplest, easiest and fastest do-it-yourself survey of customers is The three most common marketing mistakes: ŁDid you get quality service? ŁHow helpful and polite were we? ŁWhat other comments do you have? How to do it in depth? However, you need to know much more than "How are we doing?". Hopefully, you decide to do a detailed survey. The first step is to decide what you want to know. You'll also have to decide how best to get this infor-mationŠby mail, phone or in per-son. A mail survey can use a longer, 1. Defining and limiting marketing to "get- more detailed ting new clients.* questionnaire. Becoming obsessed with growth for Surveying by growth's sake. 3. Attempting to be "all good types of clientsŠJames H. Mitchell, ;ing Techniques fpr fh2 Fmelawn -^r TURF TYPEcr* I TALL FESCUE MM^mMMJiMmmmom m m. Fmelawn TURF TYPE TAU FESCUE i Mí MMâLMÊMà'^iàtPMÉÊUAA. MA(| iUàtJiS ' uhi ' n/irwwm 'WW&nPnVJtJJii * M Toll Free 1-800-277-1412 For additional information write PENNINGTON SEED, INC. Turf Dept. P.O. Box 290 Ł Madison, Georgia 30650 DISTRIBUTION CENTERS TURF-TYPE TALL FESCUE TRIAD TURF TYPE TALL FESCUE BLEND PERFECTA DURABLE TALL FESCUE MIXTURE mr0 CREEPING RED FESCUE 1. Pennington Seed. Inc. of Madison 6. Madison. GA (404) 342-1234 2. Pennington Seed. Inc. of Columbia 7. Columbia. SC (803) 771-4222 3. Pennington Seed. Inc. of Cullman 8. Cullman. AL (205) 734-9486 4. Pennington Seed. Inc. of Orlando 9. Orlando. FL (407) 295-6271 5. Pennington Seed. Inc. of Greenfield Greenfield. M0 (417)637-5979 Pennington Seed. Inc. of Louisiana Hammond. LA (504) 386-7611 Pennington Seed. Inc. of Virginia Petersburg. VA (804) 732-4769 Alby's Jacksonville. FL (904) 721-1200 Mid-South Seeds. Inc. N. Little Rock. AR (501)945-1474 PRODUCTION FACILITIES 10.GTO-TEC.INC. Eatonton.GA 11. CACTUS SEED COMPANY. INC Roll. AZ Ask for: 12. Pennington Seed. Inc. of Oregon Lebanon. OR Insure vour stand iHEYENNE TURF TYPE / BERMUDAGRASS ELITE PERENNIAL RYEGRASS BLEND Stallhn mmmWRFTYPEmmm PERENNIAL RYEGRASS lut* fOAtcy Sex TURF TYPE PERENNIAL RYEGRASS Pebble Beach Perennial Ryegrass and rrrtpnak UtaCHmtar-LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT 300 LANDSCAPE DESIGN: A PRACTICAL APPROACH by Leroy Hannebaum Geared for the commercial de- signer/salesperson, this is a one- stop guide to the landscape design process. Covers the entire highly competitive field including design analysis techniques, pointers on land forms, specialized business landscaping methods, environ- mental design guidelines, specifications, estimations, bids. $54.95 370 Ł LANDSCAPE OPERATIONS: MANAGEMENT. METHODS A MATERIALS by Leroy Hannebaum An in-depth examination that com-bines technical training in landscape science with methods of accounting, business management, marketing and sales. Discusses effective methods for performing lawn installations, landscape plant-ing and maintenance. Step-by-step accounting calculations are ex-plained in simple terms. $54.95 365 - LANDSCAPE PUNTS IN DESIGN by Edward C. Martin An annotated black & white photo- graphic guide to the design qualities of ornamental plant! their aesthetic and functional use in landscape designing. Over 600 trees, shrubs, vines, ground covers and turfgrasses are described in non-technical language. Over 1900 photographs. Provides a basis for selecting the best plant materials for any particular use in landscape design. Contains detailed indexes that provide quick reference to particular design qualities and growing conditions. $69.95 305 Ł UNDSCAPE MANAGEMENT by James R. Feucht and Jack D. Butler Planting and Maintenance of Trees. Shrubs, and Turfgrasses. Describes the basic principles of cultural man-rrient of installed landscapes, important factors of plant growth, soils and fertilizers, im-proved planting techniques and new pruning techniques, integrated pest and disease management, and spray-equipment calibration and care are all featured. $35.95 375 - RESIDENTIAL UNDSCAPES by Gregory M. Pierceall An excellent reference for individu-als involved in the design and development of plantings and con-structed features for residential sites. Illustrations and actual resi-dential case study examples are used to communicate graphic, plan-pts which i $55.95 ning and design concepts which are the focus of this text. 220 Ł CONTROLLING TURFGRASS PESTS by Shurtlelf, Fermanian, Randell New comprehensive guide provides the most up-to-date information available on the identification, biol- ogy. control and management of every type of turfgrass pest. $46.95 235 - UWN CARE: A HANDBOOK FOR PROFESSIONALS by H. Decker. J. Decker Written by turfgrass professionals, this handy guide will be invaluable for playing field managers, golf managers. or any lawn care practitioner. Covers all aspects of turfgrass management $48.95 TURPQRXS8: SCItNCE AND CULTURE ' Pest Control Operations 640 TURF IRRIGATION MANUAL by James Watkins A guidebook for engineers, archi-tects. designers and contractors Keeps pace with the latest develop-ments in turf and landscape irrigation. Specific chapters devoted to rotary sprinkler design systems. Golf course design systems and expanded engineering and refer- ence material $29.90 615 Ł TURF MANAGEMENT FOR GOLF COURSES by James Beard Written by an eminent turfgrass researcher, this USGA sponsored text is an ideal reference and how to" guide. Details all phases of golf course design and construction, turf management, course adminis- tration. irrigation, equipment and disease and pest control. Fully illustrated. $74.00 110 -TURF MANAGERS' HANDBOOKS by Daniel and Freeborg ENTIRELY UPDATED. A practical guide for the turf practitioner Chap- ters on grasses, growth regulators and diseases have had extensive modification. Innovations resulting from research and practice have been added to reflect the current techniques available for turf managers $32.95 630 TURFGRASS: SCIENCE AND CULTURE by James Beard Comprehensive basic text and ref- erence source used in many leading university turf programs. Includes findings of current research com-piled from more than 12.000 sources. $54.95 620 - TURF MANAGEMENT HANDBOOK by Howard Sprague Practical guide to turf care under both healthy and poor turf condi-tions. Chapters cover turf in cooler and warmer regions, fertilizer use. regular turf care, weed and disease control and special turf problems. Useful seasonal schedules for management of turf areas $26.60 125 - SCIENTIFIC GUIDE TO PEST CONTROL OPERATIONS by G. W. Bennett, J.M. Owens, R.M. Corhgan Fourth Edition. New chapters on dlife. s fumigation, urban wildli facilities, plus updated, improved i. special chapters on pesticides, cock-roaches. birds, termites, equip-ment. sanitation, stored product pests and more. Don't be without this updated edition. $49.95 Domestic AN Others $60.00 410 DISUSES & PESTS OF ORNAMENTAL PUNTS by Pascal Pirone Tnis standard reference discusses diagnosis and treatment of dis- eases and organisms affecting nearly 500 varieties of ornamental plants grown outdoors, under glass or in the home. Easy to understand explanations of when and how to use the most effective fungicides, insecticides and other control methods. $49.95 ADDITIONAL TITLES: 800 - THE GOLF COURSE $35.00 510 - H0RTUS THIRD $135.00 500 - THE 1991 PESTICIDE DIRECTORY $75.00 225 - TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT REVISED $54.95 RETURN THIS COUPON TO: BOOK SALES, ONE EAST FIRST STREET, DULUTH, MN 55802 PLEASE SEND ME THE FOLLOWING BOOKS. MY PAYMENT* IS ENCLOSED. Book Number and Title Quantity Price Total Price DomesticŠ'Please add $3.50 per order plus $1.00 per additional copy for postage and handling. All othersŠ'Please add $5.00 per order and if ordering multiple copies, also add $2.00 per additional copy to cover postage and handling. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. Prices subject to change. Quantity rates available on request. Questions? Call 218-723-9471 or 9472 Total. Postage & Handling. Total Enclosed. PAYMENT MUST ACCOMPANY ORDER Please charge to my Visa, MasterCard or American Express (circle one) Account Number Expiration Date Name Street Address. City State Zip Phone Number L Signature. Date 23 LAWN CARE INDUSTRY SEPTEMBER 1991 ŁMMNNNN LCOs can offer more environmentally aware fall fertilizing regimen BY J. MARK NUZUM Recent surveys show that more than 80 percent of Americans say they've changed their shopping and living habits in response to a growing concern for the environment. Nearly the same number of Americans now consider themselves "environmentalists". This signals dramatic changes in American pur-chasing habits. Environmental concern is lead-ing homeowners to insist on less toxicity in their lawn care products. Also, increased government regula-tion of lawn chemicals is expected to continue and spur the develop- ment and use of more environmen- tally compatible products, especial- ly those made from recyclable mate- rials. New challenge The new challenge for lawn care opera- tors (LCOs) is to incor-porate environmental practices into every-day operations while continuing to provide the green, healthy car-pets of lawn that homeowners still demand. One area LCOs are focusing on is fall fertiliza- tion, a stan-dard practice in the lawn care industry in recent years. It pro-motes the health and Organic materials used as fertilizer bases provide an energy source for soil microorganismsŠJ. Mark Nuzum, president of Harmony Products vigor of turf and provides nutrients for root growth. It also keeps lawns green later into fall and provides a head start for spring green-up. Just enough nitrogen The environmental impact of fall fertilization is a particular concern for LCOs. Lawns in a dormant to semi-dormant late-season state grow more slowly. Plants absorb fewer nutrients from the soil, and water-soluble nitrogen is often not completely absorbed. Fall rains cause the unused, excess nitrogen to leach out of the root zone. This can contribute to ground and surface water contami-nation. Excess nitrogen released this way into the environment can cause algae build-up in watersheds, smothering streams and lakes and robbing fish of oxygen. From a practical standpoint, the presence of water-soluble nitrogen in the environment represents an uneconomical use of fertilizer. Bridge products To help LCOs meet consumer demand for both environmental stewardship and a ver-dant suburban land-scape, a new category of fertilizersŠbridge prod-uctsŠis being devel-oped. Bridge products, as the name suggests, provide a link between traditional all-synthetic fertilizers and all-natu- ral fertilizers. Because of their high analysis, bridge products are effective, and offer both immedi-ate and long-term benefits for soil and turf. They're particularly well suited for fall fertiliza-tion. Bridge products sup-ply all the safety and benefits of natural fertilizers with-out sacrificing the high nitrogen analysis and low cost of synthetics. They're also pleasant to use, and are low in odor and dust. They're manufactured in a homo-geneous particle form for easy and even spreading, and are generally marketed at prices that are compet-itive with traditional synthetics. Bridge products provide a combi-nation of water-insoluble nitrogen (WIN), quick-release nitrogen and organic material to create optimum soil conditions for the fall and win-ter lawn. Slow-release a benefit The long-term benefits of bridge products lie in the slow-release WIN which breaks down gradually through microbial activity and thus does not leach excessive nitrogen. If temperatures drop below those required for organic break down, unused WIN is stored in the soil until spring brings a resumption of microbial activity. These stores of nitrogen and other nutrients enhance spring root growth and promote early spring green-up. Year-round nourishment Organic materials used as fertil-izer bases provide an energy source for soil microorganisms that enable them to continue their soil-building activity. A fertilizer rich in energy and nutrients helps build and sus-tain a healthy soil environment, nurturing turf over the winter and fortifying the soil and turf for quick spring green-up. A two-year study by Dr. Charles Peacock, associate professor of crop science at North Carolina State University, found that bridge prod-ucts are "effective fertilizers" in this regard. Used in conjunction with a good integrated pest management (IPM) program, bridge products can rebuild soil quality and lead to self-supporting, robust turf that is less dependent on chemical inputs over the entire growing season. Harmony Products manufactures fertilizer from poultry by-products that would otherwise by burden-some disposal problems. Harmony's basic professional lawn product is a 14-3-6 fertilizer. J. Mark Nuzum, is president of Harmony Products. He's an agronomistwith lawn care experi-ence at Rollins Lawn Care, Tidewater Agricorp Inc., Lebanon Chemical Corp. and Nitrex. 24 NEWSMAKERS LAWN CARE INDUSTRY SEPTEMBER 1991 Generosity of retired Davey Tree executive births new hort program Hardymon, The generosity of a retired Davey Tree executive spurred the creation of a two-year Horticultural Technology program at a major Ohio university this fall. The program at Kent State University's Salem campus results from a $500,000 gift of Davey Tree Company stock from Eugene Haupt, recently retired president of the Davey Tree Surgery Company, Livermore, CA. "This singular gift is extraordi-nary in its generosity and signals a major commitment to quality edu-cation at Kent State University," said Dr. J. Robert Quatroche, vp for institutional advancement at Kent State The donation was made in the names of Haupt and his late wife, Betty. In addition to Haupt's gift, Davey will provide $25,000 in scholarship funds to the program over the next two years. Ward Peterson, manag- er of Human Resources at the com-pany, says firms involved in all facets of the green industry report an urgent need for highly skilled employees. He said Davey Tree will be looking to hire as many gradu-ates of the Kent State U. program as possible. Graduates of the pro- gram will receive an associate of applied science degree. The Davey Tree Company has its international headquarters in Kent, Ohio. Stephen A. resigned as a director of the Professional Lawn Care Association of America (PLCAA) in mid July. Hardymon also reportedly left ChemLawn. He had been the company's vice president of pub- Ž lie affairs. PLCAA President Neal DeAngelo appointed Norman Goldenberg, vice president of government affairs for TruGreen Lawn Care, to replace Hardymon as chairman of the .. ^ . PLCAA Norman G°ldenberg Legislative Affairs Committee. Goldenberg, a former president of the National Pest Control Association, and long active in Florida and national politics relat-ing to chemical application, will act as liaison between PLCAA and its federal issues presence, Capitoline Consultants, Washington, D.C. Goldenberg owned and operated a pest control/lawn care business in Miami, FL, before it was purchased by Waste Management. Replacing Hardymon on the PLCAA board is Thomas F. Murrill, vice president of Human Resources and Administration, ChemLawn. Irvin E. Aal was named presi-dent, Ransomes America Corporation, Lincoln, NB, in July. This is a newly created position. The Ransome companies include Ransomes Inc., Cushman Inc., Steiner Turf Equipment, Brouwer Turf Equipment and Supreme Mowing. Aal previously held the following positions: vice president of Sperry New Holland, president of International Harvester's Agricultural Equipment Group, president/CEO of Steiger Tractor, Inc., and CEO of Phoenix International Corporation. Monsanto Residential Products Division, St. Louis, appointed Drew Lillie as regional marketing supervisor for the Southwest Region. Products. The residential products portfolio includes ready-to-use formulations of Roundup®, Greensweep® and Pondmaster®. Lillie will live in Dallas. Patrick M. Quinn also joins the residential products division.. He's a marketing specialist and lives in St. Louis. Gary McElvaney became spe-cialty products territory manager for Vigoro Industries, Inc. Winter Haven, FL.. A past president of the Texas Turfgrass Association, McElvaney previously worked as sales manager for Chemical & Turf Specialty Company. He will work out of Austin, TX. Brickman Group Ltd., the huge design-build landscape architec-Diana Crawford ture/horticultural management company, Long Grove, IL, named Diana Crawford as a project director. She's a native of Indianapolis and a landscape architect. Joseph Cortopassi was promoted to vice president of Green Turf Irrigation, CO., St. Louis, MO. Cortopassi was the company's general manager. He's been with Green Turf Irrigation for 15 years. He's also the president of the Gateway Irrigation Association. Rain Bird, Glendora, CA, named Rick Davis as national specifica-tions sales manager. He's a certified landscape architect with 17 years experience in irrigation. The compa-ny hired Douglas H. Callison as specifications manager for northern California, northern Nevada, Oregon and Washington. Vanessa Jensen joined Turf-Seed, Inc., Hubbard, OR, as Mid-Atlantic marketing man-ager and techni-cal service repre-sentative. She's been involved with the turfseed industry for 19 years and is immediate past presi-dent of the Maryland Turfgrass /anessa Jensen Council. The new officers the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association: president Frank Mariani, Mariani Landscape; executive vp Scott McAdam, McAdam Landscape; vp Scott Byron, Scott Byron & Company; treasurer Cheryl Muskus, C&J Landscape; secretary Herb Buhr, Buhr's Landscaping & Lawn Care; sergeant-at-arms Cathy Ricciardi, Interior Garden Services. ILCA directors: Bob Busch, Busch & Sons Landscape Construction; Gene Grant, Grant & Power Landscaping; Leo Kelly, Kellygreen Design; Chuck McGinty, McGinty Bros.; Sue Meier, Ada Tecza & Sons; Eric Moore, Moore Landscapes; Tom Nenoff, Assurance Agency; and Michael Pezza, Pezza Landscape. William (Bill) G. Thornton, Jr., Thornton Landscape, Inc., Maineville, Ohio, is a new director of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). Thornton is president of Thornton Environmental Industries, parent company of six smaller firms in the landscape/nursery business. He's a former president of ALCA. The California Landscape Contractors Association named Eldon Dryer as a "Life Member" this, owner of D&L Landscape Corporation, Riverside, CA, joined CLCA in 1963. Pamela A. Prust joined ISK Biotech Limited, Mentor, Ohio, as office administrator. She works out of the London, Ontario, office. James A. Councilor now heads the Chemical Specialties Manufacturers Association's Department of Administrative Services. He was formerly with the COffee Development Group. He's a native of Washington, D.C. He suc- ceeds C.L. (Connie) Horton, who retired after 10 years with CSMA LCI Biosys patents nematode process PALO ALTO, CAŠBiosys received a U.S. patent for mass production of insect-killing nematodes. "This is the first patent to cover a process that enables production of this highly effective biopesticide economically in commercial quanti- ties," says Dr. Venkat Sohoni, presi-dent and CEO of Biosys. The company markets nematode-based products for agriculture, com-mercial turf and home markets, both directly and through partners, such as Ciba-Geigy. The patent is the first for produc-tion of multicellular invertebrates in fermenters. It couples an enhanced media emulsion with other techniques to accelerate the nematodes' growth. Nematodes are microscopic organisms that seek out and BASF readies low-atrazine product RALEIGH, NCŠPromptŽ herbi-cide is now registered by the Environmental Protection Agency and labeled for use on turf. BASF Corporation says the prod-uct is a low-atrazine alternative that provides broad-spectrum weed control. It can be applied on estab- lished and newly established St. Augustine grass, zoysiagrass, and centipedegrass as soon as 10 days after sprigging or plugging. Prompt, with active ingredients bentazon and atrazine, is labeled solely for turf and takes the place of Laddok® herbicide from BASF. Terry Hanson, business manager for the Specialty Products team at BASF, says the herbicide is effec-tive on nearly two dozen annual broadleaf weeds in addition to tough perennial weeds such as yel-low nutsedge and Canada thistle. Prompt is restricted use. LCI Pacific NW meeting Portland, ORŠInterstate Professional Applicators Association Convention and Trade Show, Red Lion HotelŠColumbia River, Oct. 2-4. Contact: John Landon 503/656-2656. LCI destroy soil pests. They invade and kill a wide range of grubs, cut- worms, armyworms and other lar-vae. Nematodes reproduce inside the dead insect, then emerge to destroy others in the ground. Ciba-Geigy markets the nema-tode-based product as Exhibit®. LCI Deere creates new lawn/grounds division MOLINE, ILŠDeere & Company this summer created a Lawn & Grounds Care Division. Bernard L. Hardiek, senior vice president, will direct it. Hardiek said the company's growth in homeowner, commercial and golf and turf markets "contin-ues to match or exceed the compa- ny's objectives" with over 3000 lawn and grounds care dealers in North America. The products of the division are manufactured at the division's pri- mary facility in Horicon, WI, and also at new facilities in Greeneville, TN, and Augusta, GA.The division also recently hired a national mar-keting organization in Raleigh, NC. 25 LAWN CARE INDUSTRY SEPTEMBER 1991 WÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊIÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊË Lessen chances for turf-damaging disease in new turf plantings by following a plan T! |urfgrass is an amazing plant. Its beauty graces millions of acres of landscape across America. We walk on it. We play on it. We plant it, water it and expect it to grow. But, more than anything else, we take it for granted. The fact is, there are lots of unseen influences that can greatly affect the growth and stand of turfgrassŠunseen foes like soilborne fungi that can cripple or kill turfgrass throughout its growth cycle. Because turfgrass proliferates in warm, moist environments of nutrient-dense soils and because it encompasses a large percentage of golf course and recreational areas, it becomes easy prey for disease pathogens that are most active under the same types of conditionsŠespe-cially at planting and during early growth stages. That's why a preventive program of integrat-ed control measures, including seed treatments, is important to turfgrass development. Common diseases A broad spectrum of soilborne fungal microor-ganisms can affect turfgrass development: Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Helminthosporium, Sclerotinia and Septoria all infect turfgrass. Phythium is the most common fungus that affects turfgrass development. Other diseases may be blamed for damping off or uneven stands of young turfgrass, but research shows Pythium is the most likely culprit for fungal-related turf- grass damage. Pythium is most active during warm, wet periods; Rhizoctonia prefers long periods of humid weather; Fusarium is favorable to cool, wet weather; Helminthosporium can develop in extended wet conditions; Septoria prefers cool, wet weather (primarily in the spring); and Sclerotinia appears during cycles of moisture with warm days and cool nights (spring, early summer and fall). Cultural practices, imbalances of fertilizers, chemical controls and plant nutrients also can affect the presence or severity of fungal diseases. How diseases work In periods when there is no plant host (turf-grass), fungal organisms have the capability to survive temperature extremes and lay in wait for extended periods of time. Once seed is intro- duced and conditions favor fungal development, the disease pathogens can begin the infection. During active periods, fungal ^ diseases easily penetrate and infect the seed, roots, stems and foliage of turfgrass and rapidly i f? reproduce by means of spores in Kwl 1 ff^wiiy the plant's tissues. Symptomatic foliage discoloration and kill in ryegrass due to Fusarium. Depending on the length of activity and severity of the infection, the dis-eases can manifest themselves in a wide variety of symptoms or overall effects. Side-by-side comparison: treated versus non-treated turfseed How to identify infections In general, turfgrass varieties respond simi-larly above ground when they're diseasedŠthe absence of, or weakened growth; dull, greasy or discolored foliage; and indicators such as spots, growths, rings or discolored foliage. Pythium blights are among the most common and destructive of the disease complex. Grasses most commonly affected are bentgrasses, Bermudagrasses, fescues and ryegrasses. Typically, Pythium infections first appear as small, irregularly shaped, greasy patches from four or five inches in diameter. These areas may eventually reach from one to 10 feet in diameter. Collapse of foliage and chlorosis also may be pre-sent, and a cottony growth may accompany the rings in early morning hours. Below ground, infected turfgrass will most often show dark, discolored roots often accompa-nied by a rotted appearance. Other below-ground symptoms will vary depending on the particular fungus affecting the plant and the stage or severity of infection. Consult with a knowledgeable source, perhaps a county extension agent, to correctly identify and treat disease problems, especially prior to curative treatments. Control measures There are no magic treatments available for turfgrass disease control. Rather, an integrated risk management program including preventive seed treatments can optimize controllable grow-ing variables and lessen the risk of disease infec-tion later in the growth cycle. Planting conditions and proper germination are critical to the development of a good turf-grass standŠa healthy stand, in itself, is a good defense to diseases. A combination of cultural and chemical control practices at early stages can aid turfgrass establishment in areas that are newly seeded or over-seeded: ŁFor newly seeded areas, seedbed preparation is importantŠevaluate soil com-ponents and fertility factors, consult and follow recommended procedures for your area and avoid excessive use of fertilizers or herbicides. If necessary, alter the soil make-up and landscape to pro-vide good drainage. Sand/soil mixes tend to have fewer prob-lems than natural soils. ŁFall overseeding procedures can differ from area to area, but general guidelines apply. Most importantly, plan ahead to con- trol weeds, thatch and disease. If there is evidence of disease in areas to be overseeded, treat with a fungicide at least two weeks prior to overseeding. By applying a fungicide at this stage, fungal disease inoculum existing in the soil can be controlled and risk of infection dimin-ished during the critical early stages of growth. Systemic fungicides (fungicides that translocate throughout the plant's system) typically offer longer and more complete protection than con- tact fungicides. About two weeks after overseeding, make a second application of fungicide. Follow label directions for timing and recommended rates. Weed and thatch control are also important to successful overseeding. Take early control of weeds and thatch. They can interfere with seed-to-soil contact and aeration which aid a good start for turfgrass stands. Incorporate adequate pre-seeding lead time for herbicides and fertiliz-ers to help avoid problems during germination. Other practices such as verti-cutting and dou-ble-cutting Bermudagrasses immediately prior to over-seeding can improve seed-to-soil contact. ŁChoose a turfgrass variety appropriate for the area to be seeded or over-seeded. Consult with a turfgrass distributor's seed specialist for recommended varieties and uses. ŁUse high-quality seed treated with a sys-temic fungicide. Seed treatments can help provide protection in the most critical stages of turfgrass develop-mentŠgermination and emergence. Systemic fungicides can extend early-season protection beyond germination into the seedling stages. Once a healthy stand is established, chances of disease infection are lessened. As part of an integrated approach, follow-up application of a foliar systemic fungicide at green cast (about two to three weeks after seeding) can extend Pythium control even further into the growing season. ŁPlant or overseed at recommended seeding rates but be flexible on planting dates. Consult extended forecasts so that seeded areas are like- ly to get the conditions they need to germinate. Follow-up applications of fertilizer and/or fungi- cides may be necessary. ŁPost-seeding maintenance: Carefully struc-ture a watering program appropriate to turf-grass demands. Because moisture is critical to both turfgrass growth and fungal disease infec- tion, closely monitor moisture levels under the soil line and watering intervals. Cutting and traffic also can affect the vigor of a turfgrass stand. Monitor turfgrass conditions by randomly checking plants throughout an area. Leaf and root conditions are normally the first indicators of disease infection. Laboratory soil and plant sample evaluation can also indicate imbalances in fertilizer and chemical control use. At the first indication of disease, follow procedures to cor-rectly identify and control fungal disease pathogens. An integrated risk management program can be a key tool for turfgrass disease control. Early implementation of preventive measures include cultural practices, seed treatments and growth monitoring. This will help give new and over- seeded varieties a good start. LCI 26 LAWN CARE INDUSTRY SEPTEMBER 1991 CLASSIFIED RATES: $1.05 per word (minimum charge. $40). Boldface words or words in all capital letters charged at $1.30 per word. Boxed or display ads charged at $90(1 X). $85(3X), $80(6X), $75(9X), $70(12X) per column inch (one inch minimum). (Frequencies based on calender year). Agency commission allowed only when camera ready art is provided by agency. For ads using blind box numbers add $20 to total cost of ad per issue. Send ad copy with payment to: DAWN NILSEN, LAWN CARE INDUSTRY. 1 E. First St.. Duluth. MN 55802. 218-723-9179. Fax Number 218-723-9437. BOX NUMBER REPLIES: Mail box number replies to: LAWN CARE INDUSTRY. Classified Ad De-partment. 1 East First Street. Duluth. MN 55802. Please include box number in address. HELP WANTED COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL SALES MANA-GER: New position with 15 year old local company. Assertive, self-starter with 2 years minimum com-mercial lawn & tree sales experience. Want a change? With right background, this could be the ticket to future success. Send resume & salary requirements to: Bill Harrigan, Green Life Lawn & Tree Care, 4539 Mack Avenue, Frederick, MD 21701. 9/91 LAWN CARE MANAGER: Full-time, year-round position for an aggressive career-minded individ- ual. 2 years minimum experience in chemical lawn care with supervisory experience. Re-sponsibilities will include crew training, supervi- sion, customer communications, new program development & equipment care. Send resume with photograph and salary requirements to: P.O. Box 7055 West Station, Huntsville, Alabama 35807. 9/91 BRANCH MANAGER- Well established major company expanding in Midwest and Eastern cities desires ambitious, hands-on branch manager. Must have successful telemarketing experience in lawn care and be able to motivate both telemarket-ing and production employees. We care about our employees and offer high salaries and good bene- fits. Reply to LCI Box 234 11/91 FOR SALE HANNAY HOSE REELS: New in the box. E1526 s and E1530's - $359. We will ship and pay freight anywhere in the U.S.A. and Canada. Immediate delivery. Other size reels and parts available at fabulous savings! Call 313-543-2200, in Michigan. Outside Michigan -1-800-843-LAWN. TF KELWAY® professional SOIL ACIDITY and SOL-UBLE SALTS TESTERS, available from distribu-tors nationwide. HB-2 and SST brochures from KEL INSTRUMENTS CO., INC., Dept. 2, P.O. Box 2174, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568. (508)693-7798. 11/91 Big savings on replacement parts for your com-mercial mowers. Blades, belts, tires, wheels, trim- mer line, air filters and more! Call LESCO to order or ask for a free catalog (800)321-5325. 10/91 FOR SALE: Lawncare business in Northern Cal-ifornia. Gross sales of $115,000 in 1990 from 300 residential/commercial accounts. Expansion could include maintenance. Distributorship for Northern California also for sale. Opportunities for growth are unlimited. 415-790-0300 evenings. 9/91 Newbury, Ohio-5 Acres, zoned commercial, land-scape business, 2 homes, 3 bay garage, retail shop and office, pond, great visibility and potential. Call for details: Faith A. Osborn, Smythe, Cramer Co. Realtors, 216-247-8900 or 216-953-5356. 9/91 REPS WANTED LAWN CARE FIELD REP: The nation s largest lawn care franchisor is expanding its field support program and needs an additional Field Repre- sentative to be based in New Jersey. Must have strong people, communications and sales skills. Turf experience required, knowledge of ornamen-tal a plus. WRITE ONLY, including experience and salary history: Ewald Altstadt, Lawn Doctor, Inc., P.O.B. 512, Matawan, NJ 07747. 9/91 TREE SPRAYING TRUCKS FOR SALE. Can also be used for lawn spraying. 2-1990 GMC 5000 Series (Isuzu), Cab Over, Power Steering, Diesel, 5 Speed, 14 Foot Flat Bed, 1,000 Gallon Tank, Hypro 44 Gallon Per Minute Pump, 30 Horse-power Wisconsin Industrial Engine, Hannay Hose Reel, 300 Foot 3/4" Hose, John Bean 785 Spray Gun. Also Second Pumping System Hypro 10 GPM Pump, 11 Horsepower Honda Engine, Small Hannay Hose Reel, 250 Foot Hose. Deep Root Feeding Gun and JD9 Gun. $24,995 Each Truck (Cost $40,000 New). 1984 GMC 6000 Series, 350 V8, 4 Speed, Power Steering, 14 Foot Flat Bed, 6 New 8:25x20 Tires, 48,000 Original Miles (Original Owner), 1,000 Gallon Tank (New), 44 Gallon Per Minute Hypro Pump (New), 23 Horsepower Kohler Engine, Hannay Hose Reel (New), 300 Foot 3/4" Hose (New), Bean 785 Spray Gun, New Paint on Cab. Excellent Condition. $8,995.1982 Ford F600, 370 V8, 4 Speed. 2 Speed Rear Axle, 14 Foot Flat Bed, Power Steering, FMC Bean Tree Spraying Machine, 35 Gallon Per Minute, Wisconsin Indus-trial Engine, 600 Gallon Tank, Hannay Hose Reel, 300 Foot 3/4" Hose, Bean 785 Spray Gun. Ap-proximately 46,000 Miles. Excellent Condition. $8,995.2-1990 Dodge D350s4 Speed, V8,12 Foot Flatbed, 500 Gallon Poly Tank, Hypro 44 Gallon Per Minute Pump, 30 HP Wisconsin Engine, Hannay Reel, 300 Ft 3/4" Hose, Bean Gun. Also Second Pumping System Hypro 10 GPM Pump, 11 Horsepower Honda Engine, Small Hannay Hose Reel, 250 Foot 1/2" Hose, Deep Root Feeding Gun and JD9 Gun. $16,995 Each Cost $30,000 New! CALL NOW! - PRICES NEGOTIABLE. Photos Available Upon Request. (516) 331-4713 Eve-nings & Weekends, (201) 785-0985 Monday-Fri-day Days. 9/91 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES SALE LAWN CUTTING AND SPRAYING: Gross- ing over $2,000,000. Hard assets exceed $500,000. Estbl. long term commercial accounts. H.O. in West Central Florida. Frank Antoniello 813-791-4419 FLORIDA BUSINESS GROUP, INC. 9/91 SERVICEMASTER LAWNCARE FRANCHISES IN INDIANA. FOR MORE INFO CALL 812-372-7803. 9/91 ADVERTISERS INDEX NO. ADVERTISER PAGE 102 Mobay 3 103 Mobay 13 104 Pennington 17 105 Turf Seed 11 This index provided as an additional service. The publisher assumes no liability for ommission or error. Let's not pollute our ocean of air like we polluted theirs. AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION * ® The Christmas Seal People* Space contributed by the publisher as a public service. Í sendaclassifiedadyertsü^ message ...write here. " (Please Print). 1. Number of insertions: (circle one) 2. Start with (month) 3. Amount enclosed: $ 1 2 3 6 9 12 TF (Til Forbid) .issue (Copy must be in by 1st of month preceding) PAYMENT MUST ACCOMPANY ORDER. SIGNATURE NAME DATE. COMPANY STREET CITY STATE .ZIP. PHONE NUMBER MAIL AD COPY TO: Dawn Nilsen, Lawn Care Industry, 1 East First Street, Duluth, MN 55802. RATES: 1.05 per word (minimum charge $40). Boldface words or words in all capital letters charged at $1.30 per word. Boxed or display ads: $90 per column inch for 1 x insertion (minimum one inch); $85 for 3x insertion; $80 for 6x insertion; $75 for 9x insertion; $70 for 12x insertion. (Frequencies based on a calendar year). Agency commissions will be given only when camera ready art is provided by agency. For ads using blind box number, add $20 to total cost of the ad per issue. Send ad copy with payment to Dawn Nilsen, Lawn Care Industry, 1 East First Street, Duluth, MN 55802. (218) 723 9179. FAX Number (218) 723-9615. ' 541 01/06 40 < < -J 47984 -LAWN CARE INDUSTRY SEPTEMBER 1991 NEW PRODUCTS L J 27 i , 1 , mmmm m m NUMMI H NEW PRODUCTS L J mÊKÊÊÊÊÊB^KÊÊKKÊÊÊÊIÊÊÊIÊÊIIÊ^K^KÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ^ÊÊ^^ÊKKKÊI^BIKKÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊIIÊÊÊÊÊKÊÊ^ÊÊÊÊÊÊm Scott fungicide comes with a new carrier Fungicide X combats prevalent diseases on high- maintenance turf areas, says O.M. Scott & Sons Company. Due to a new pulp carrier, Fungicide X provides optimum turf cov- erage and disease control with less susceptibility to drift while preventing and controlling brown patch, leaf spot, red leaf spot and Fusarium patch/pink snow mold. Dry-applied and ready-to-use, Fungicide X can be applied with a rotary or drop-type spreader. Circle No. 150 on Inquiry Card Sidepour dispenser has many advantages Even spreading of Ciba-Geigy's new Sprint® 138 for correcting iron-deficient soils is an easy matter with Magenta Corp.'s one-piece Sidepour dispensing clo- sure. The adjustable spout, which contains baffles that control the application swath, opens to three sepa- rate positions. Sidepour is available in a variety of colors, with or without liners, from Magenta Corp. Circle No. 151 on Inquiry Card New line of natural organic fertilizer Enviro-Gro Technologies unveils a new line of natu-ral organic fertilizers called Terrene. Terrene's slow-release granules deliver a high percentage of its nitro- gen as water insoluble (WIN). The product also features a very low burning potential, micronutrients and a large amount of need-ed organic matter. Circle No. 152 on Inquiry Card New Tiger Line trailer has wooden sides Tiger Line's general pur-pose utility trailer comes with removable wood sides and full fenders. It's 8'4" long and 5' wide and weighs 685 pounds. Options include electric brakes, drop axle, ramp gate, and jack and wheel. Circle No. 153 on Inquiry Card Here's a quicker way to bag yard wastes Pfister Enterprises says its Quicker Packer® is a better way to collect and pack yard waste. It consists of a round anchored, funnel-shaped receptacle on which is stored a 25-foot tubular sleeve of cotton netting called Bionet®, and a long- handled dual-purpose tool which a standing operator uses to both rake and drive materials into the Bionet. Circle No. 154 on Inquiry Card M«t PHu mmm Finn's Fiber-Plus improves germination The Finn Corporation's Fiber-Plus improves seed germination. It's a specially coated synthetic fiber which improves the bond of fiber mulch to the soil surface. When a slurry containing Fiber-Plus is applied the longer length fibers attach to the soil particles and cre-ate a tenacious erosion-con-trol mat. Circle No. 155 on Inquiry Card This sprayer attaches to a garden hose The Porta-Spray does the work of a truck-mounted spraying system, says Chemilizer Products. It can be used with all types of liquid and soluble-powder fertilizers, pesti-cides, algaecides and other chemicals. It attaches to a standard garden hose and mixes-chemicals and water as it's used. Circle No. 156 on Inquiry Card Colorful calendar can be given to customers Focal Point Communications offers a calendar exclusive-ly for the green industry. It's produced on high-quality recycled paper and features full-color photos. On the back cover are perforated coupons customized for each order to work year round for the company distributing them. Lawn and landscape tips and cultural practices are fea-tured in the calendar and your company name is promi-nently displayed on an outside tab, visible all year. There is an Oct. 15th cut-off date for December delivery. Call 1-800/525-6999. Circ|e No 157 on ,nquiry Card Video journal helps green pros do the job "For Every Season" is the first green industry video journal that provides on-going training in pesticide safety and horticultural practices to lawn care, land- scape and grounds mainte- nance workers. Each 20-minute tape pre-sents practical, step-by-step demonstrations of lawn and landscape techniques, equipment selection, and proper use of plant material along with management tips to increase efficiency. The tapes help industry professionals train and doc-ument their training. Mark Timmons and Meg Southerland, well-known industry consultants are featured on each tape. For more information contact "For Every Season:" Video Landscape Journal, 105 Lyndon Lane, Louisville, KY 40222. 502/425-8121. Circle No. 159 on Inquiry Card Flory touts its new powerful blower Flory Industries intro-duces a tractor-powered 2500 Blower. This model provides the power neces-sary for high-capacity clean-ing of many materials. It is controlled with a damper and cylinder which allows a variable amount of air without effecting the RPM of the power source. The 3-point hitch and drive shaft hook-up allow one man to easily connect it. Circle No. 158 onr Inquiry Card ^ ^f: Us ""¿SÍ% ' Co % to ^òte; \sSue, anj ~ ' ¿esvre - , esea^ Ł - eo u;:'eSt ~ aSVc\og re' su??1 or^-V e «ac<«»2S.»5» "45 i » yovif V ,ches r ?o » »SSíTs co«* ^ woof * * .-r»c Vtatos / ° to rea^ \evtf-c\ate tV>e \\ a?^ ha* staYe dtVie sca!1 yih»1 Xou