MOWERS Intermediate walk-behinds Page 12 NITROGEN Liquids for lawn care Page 16 COMPUTERS When, what kind to buy Page 19 INSURANCE Alternative 
is offered Page 22 HBJ A Harcourt Brace Jovanovich Publication SEPTEMBER 1984 Volume 8, Number 9 $2.00 WWN ORE NDUSTRV Serving lawn maintenance and chemical lawn care professionals Liquid vs. dry The battle among proponents of each rages on ED. NOTE: This is the first of a four-part series examining the differences in liquid and granular lawn care chemicals. This installment concerns the reactions of lawn care owners/operators. In subsequent months, Dr. John Street of Ohio State University will deal with fertilizers, and Drs. Pat Vittum and Robert Shearman will deal with insec-ticides and herbicides, respectively. Like the Hatfields and McCoys, professional lawn care companies continue their age-old bat-tle over the merits of liquid and dry (granular) chemicals. At no time does the battlefield get as heated as in the spring when companies rain literature on prospective clients extolling the virtues of their particular materials. Such was the case this past spring, and such 
will be the case next spring. And this is one controversy for which everybody has a strong opinion. "Dry fertilizers are not part of our regular pro-gram," notes Phil Fred of Arite-Way Landscape Care, Mooresville, Ind. "We only use granular when we don't feel safe spraying. We use liquid 
because of its convenience and because we have the ability to formulate it exactly." Duane Saxton of Liqui-Lawn Corp., Lewiston, Ida. agrees. "I'm more than happy with liquid," he says. "In order to have a full program, dry would be too expensive. Though we used dry at one time, we were not satis-fied." But Marty Turner of Custom Lawns, North Olmsted, Ohio, isn't ready to jump on the band wagon. "We've been taught that dry is better for the to page 18 If everything's cyclical... ŁŁŁŁŁŁŁŁ Traditional 'gardeners' waiting in the wings? Ron Meier If everything is cyclical, might not the chemical lawn care business be headed into a downturn? Might not the traditional "gardener" be 
waiting in the wings right now to regain his popularity, should the 
lawn care industry falter? These were the questions raised by Ron Meier of The Andersons, Maumee, Ohio, dur-ing a recent address to the trade press. "Lawn care operators have given the green industry a tre-mendous boost, and we've ridden 
the growth curve with them," 
Meier said. Later, however, he noted that, "Everything is cyclical. You might see the tradi-tional landscaper come back into the picture, but they'll have more 
tools (chemicals) to work with." Meier was quick to point to the lawn care industry as an impor-tant factor in the growth of The 
Andersons' Lawn Fertilizer Divi-
sion. "LCOs have greatly enhanced the public's awareness and joy in 
a healthy outdoor environment," he said. "While some volume has undoubtedly shifted from the retailer's shelf to the LCOs, we believe the overall market has grown because of them." The Andersons, Meier said, ppvtijonth: JbEfRI6K6 Š - -swsoîî^fcr1* e Lansing ni 48824 '85 will continue its expansion. "We are finalizing the purchase of a plant to serve the East Coast. It will be operational for 1985. "We 
are also widening our product lines beyond our mainstay dry granular products. For the first time, we will produce liquid prod-ucts. We plan to be a strong pres-ence in the market of the future." Meier said that Green Sweep will be a liquid fertilizer for the 
do-it-yourself sector. When asked whether that would hurt the pro-
fessional lawn care market, Meier 
said he thought not. Jon Klotz, The Andersons' manager of marketing and dis-
tribution, concluded: "We really 
take a positive view of the lawn 
care industry, and want to become a very major power in it." [W] Possible new law Emotion, fear hit in Ohio Lyndhurst, an affluential suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, has a pro-posed ordinance on its books that 
could require lawn care com-panies to notify neighbors of yards they treat. Three plans were drawn up: (1) registering lawn care companies 
with the city; (2) providing the city 
with a list of chemicals and 
approximate times of the year they are used; and (3) "inform the neighbors of spraying" activity. The latter could be imple-mented by the construction of 
signs on properties or by provid-
ing customers with leaflets to dis-
tribute to neighbors. Signs have inherent problems associated with them, including possible 
vandalism, how long to require to page 7 M$à Dursban can make call-backs a thing of the past There's a phone call you shouldn't have to take ever again. The one that calls you back to redo a lawn or turf job. The one that costs you dearly in labor, time and gasoline. Mot to mention the highest 
cost of all Š the unhappy customer. You can put all that behind you by using DURSBAM* insecticides. Because once you use DURSBAM you can be sure you're getting up to eight weeks of tough, broad spectrum insect control. You can count on DURSBAM 2E and 4E liquids or new 50W wettable powder to knock out the toughest and most persistent outdoor insects. DURSBAM gets them all., sod webworms, armyworms, chiggers, chinch bugs, clover mites, crickets, ants, grass-hoppers, mosquitoes, grubs, turfgrass weevils, billbugs and more Šthe first time around. It's hard to find an insect that DURSBAM insecticide won't control. Unlike slower acting insecticides, DURSBAM goes to work as soon as applied ...spring, summer or fall. And for as little 
as $3.50 per 10,000 square feet of lawn 
or turf, it's a lot cheaper than the cost of call-backs. With DURSBAM insecticide on the job, more of your calls will be for repeat and 
new business. While call-backs become a dusty memory. Give your Dow distributor a call for DURSBAM insecticide. Also ask about the "DURSBAM delivers the goods'' incentive program. Be sure to read and follow all label directions and precautions. Agri-cultural Products Department, Midland, Michigan 48640. DURSBAM Does it right the first time, * Dow Chemical U.S.A. ŁTrademark of The Dow Chemical Company 3918 INDUSTRY NEWS DC U m u H CU UJ Crt OÍ: E'-en 
D 
Q Z w « < u z < J 'Natural' lawn draws neighborhood's ire A Kenmore, N.Y. man who grew what he called a "natural lawn" 
has been hauled into court by the local building inspector. Steve Kenney, whose front lawn is full of foot-high plants like coneflower, prairie grass, straw-
berry clover and primrose, was 
charged with violating the state's Fire and Building Codes. A sign in front of Kenney's house read: "The plants repre-sented here do not emit noxious fumes, produce dangerous 
allergens or attract vermin. This lawn will never be the source of 
noise pollution from lawn Florida adds to restricted list Two additional chemicals have been added to the "restricted use" list of pesticides in the state of 
Florida: phenoxy-type herbicides 
and dicamba. This means that records must now be kept on these two types of 
pesticides when application is 
made. In addition, the Depart-
ment of Agriculture and Con-
sumer Services must be notified 
before application of said chemi-
cals. Pesticides falling into the "restricted use" category now in Florida are 2,4-D; 2,4-DB; 2,4-DP; MCPA; 2,4,5-T; silvex; dicamba; 
and MCPP. mowers, weed eaters or large trucks pumping petrochemicals, nor will the run-off from the yard contain toxic pesticides, her-bicides or other pollutants. And no valuable natural resources such as gasoline, water or human labor are squandered on its maintenance." Said Building Inspector Daniel Martin: "To us, it looks like weeds." Kenney could be fined up to $100 a day for each day he is found in violation. The judge at a pre-liminary hearing told Kenney, who wears shoulder-length hair, "You can grow your hair as long as you want, but you're going to mow 
the lawn." Though Kenney contended he has received just one complaint 
from a neighbor, Martin said he's received more. Your M£lGHE>oRS T?EFERRED ME TO YOU. ALCA has meeting in Atlanta The Landscape Management Division of the Associated Land-scape Contractors of America (ALCA) will hold its annual con-ference in Atlanta, Ga. from Oct. 28 to 30 at the Colony Square Hotel. Theme of the conference will be personnel management. The keynote speech is titled "Labor Relations and Personnel Issues." The conference will end 
with a speech by Jim Perrone titled "Fundamentals of Person-
nel Management." Two concurrent sessions will be held, one for managers/ owners and one for supervisors. Perrone & Ambrose, a business 
management company, will play a key role in both. The Landscape Management Division will also release a recently-completed survey on 
wages and benefits offered 
employees nationwide. For further information, write ALCA, 405 N. Washington St., 
Falls Church, VA, 22046, or call (703) 241-4004. ONE OF THE WIERDEST names for a bluegrass variety was chosen by Drs. C. Reed Funk of Rutgers and Bill Meyer of Turf-Seed Inc. "People probably wondered who those crazy guys with 
pocket knives were, taking sprigs from a dairy cow pasture one 
Sunday morning," Meyer said recently. The pasture looked beautiful, even though it had not been seeded in more than 100 
years. So why did they call the new seed "PTDF?" Because Funk and Meyer never got the name of the farmer who owned the land, but they remembered he had a PonyTail, and that he was a Dairy Farmer. Get it? UNIONIZATION? There have been rumblings around the lawn care industry about unionization. While there have been some false starts by union organizers, many in the industry say 
groups like the Teamsters and oil, chemical and atomic workers' unions will be back. They have used their false starts as learning processes, and they see much potential in the lawn care indus-
try. THE PASSING of a good friend is the way people from the Lawn Institute see a most recent development. For the first time ever, Merion Kentucky bluegrass is not on that organization's list of varietal recommendations. "It's like losing an old friend," said Dr. Eliot Roberts, director of the Lawn Institute. "But the board felt that dropping it was something that had to be done." AFTER MANY YEARS, the lawn care industry is finally being recognized as a viable industry. The Wall Street Journal featured a piece on the industry in its front page "Business Bulletin" of 
June 21st. It was titled, "Lawn care services rejoice as customers spring up like crabgrass," and quoted LCOs Fred Collatz of New Mexico, Don Siminski of Michigan and Ursula Fagan of Colo-rado. A NEW HUSBAND: John Reeves of Davey Lawnscape, Kent, Ohio, married this summer. His new wife Pam is "a farm girl 
from my hometown of New Philadelphia, Ohio" who was intro-
duced to him two years ago. The happy pair honeymooned in North Carolina. CHEMICAL PUBLICATIONS new from the National Agri-cultural Chemicals Association of interest to LCOs are "Good Warehousing Practices for Agricultural Chemicals" and "Bulk Storage and Handling of Liquid Agricultural Pesticides." They 
are available by the single copy through Thomas /. Gilding of NACA, 1155 Fifteenth St. NW, Washington, DC, 20005. LOS ANGELES may not be the best area for chemical lawn care, but landscape managers should take note of this statistic: housing construction is expected to increase 79 percent this year 
in seven southern California counties. Also, according to the Los Angeles Times, non-housing construction in that area will lead the nation with $2.56 billion to be spent in 1984. HERE AND THERE: Dow Chemical's broadleaf herbicide will be called Turflon, and Curfew will not be available until 1986; The Alamo Group, a manufacturer of mowing equipment in San 
Antonio, Tex., has named McCormick-Armstrong, Wichita, Kans., its agency; SDS Biotech is doing research with herbicide rates and surfactant. WWN OIRE INDUSTRY v. JERRY ROCHE, Editor KEVIN COONEY, Assistant Editor ROBERT EARLEY, Group Publisher TRUDY JOSLYN, Production Manager MARILYN MacDONALD, Production Supervisor LYNN RÖSBERG, Graphic Design JOAN SCHUMACHER, Circulation Supervisor GAIL KESSLER, Reader Service Manager LINDA WINICK, Promotion Manager MARKETING/SALES Midwest Office: JOE KOSEMPA, Regional Sales Manager ROBERT EARLEY (216) 243-8100 7500 Old Oak Blvd. Cleveland, OH 44130 Southern Office: RON KEMPNER (404) 233-1817 National Sales Manager 3091 Maple Dr., 
Atlanta, GA 30305 Northwest Office: BOB MIEROW (206) 363-2864 1333 N.W. Norcross, Seattle, WA 98177 Classified: DAWN ANDERSON (218)723-9349 1 E. First St., Duluth, MN 55802 Please send advertising materials to: LAWN CARE INDUSTRY 120 W. Second St. Duluth, MN 55802 218-723-9201 ROBERT L. EDGELL, Chairman RICHARD MOELLER, President LARS FLADMARK, Executive V. Pres. ARLAND HIRMAN, Treasurer THOMAS GRENEY, Senior V. Pres. 
EZRA PINCUS, Senior Vice President PAT O'ROURKE, Group Vice President 
JOE BILDERBACH, Vice President JAMES GHERNA, Vice President GEORGE GLENN, Vice President HARRY RAMALEY, Vice President LAWN CARE INDUSTRY (USPS 397250) is published monthly by Harcourt Brace Jovanovich Publications. Corporate and Editorial offices: 7500 Old Oak Boule-vard, Cleveland, Ohio 44130. Advertising Offices: 757 Third Avenue. New York. New York 10017, 111 East Wacker Drive. Chicago, Illinois 60601 and 3091 Maple Drive. Atlanta. Georgia 30305. Accounting. Advertis-ing Production and Circulation offices: 1 East First Street, Duluth, Minnesota 55802. Subscription rates: $20 per year in the United States; $25 per year in Canada. All other countries. $50 per year Single cop-ies (pre-paid only): $2 in the U.S.; elsewhere $4.50; add $3.00 for shipping and handling per order. Second class postage paid at Duluth, Minnesota 55806. Copyright © 1984 by Harcourt Brace Jovanovich. Inc. 
All rights reserved No part of this publication may be 
reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval 
system, without permission in writing from the pub-
lisher Microfilm copies of articles are available through University Microfilm, International. 300 N. Zeeb Road. Ann Arbor. Michigan 48106 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to LAWN CARE INDUSTRY, P.O. Box 6200, Duluth. Minnesota 55806-9900. A HARCOURT BRACE . .,,, HBJ JOVANOVICH PUBLICATIONVBPA VSI Z n > pa m Z a c C/5 H pa C/3 m -T3 H m S 03 m pa Special fare to PLCAA in Tampa Delta Air Lines is offering a spe-cial convention rate to LCOs attending the Professional Lawn Care Association's annual event 
in Tampa, Fla. Nov. 12-15. If you fly Delta round trip to Tampa, and purchase tickets at least seven days prior to depar-
ture, you can receive a 30 percent discount. In some cases, the discount may not be the most economical 
fare, depending on routing and 
special promotional fares avail-
able. Delta will, however, confirm 
you at the lowest rate available. For reservations and informa-tion, call toll free (800) 241-6760 (282-8536 in Georgia) from 9 a.m. 
to 5 p.m. daily. AAN encourages contest entries The American Association of Nurserymen is inviting landscape firms to enter the Landscape Awards program. Any company 
which has completed projects for 
industrial or commercial busi-ness, institutions and government units can enter. entries will be judged on over-all excellence in design, quality of material, execution and mainte-
nance. Size and cost of the project 
are not criteria. The entry does not have to have been completed this year. For more information, contact the AAN at 1250 I St. NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC, 20005; (202) 789-2900. Deadline for entries is Oct. 31. Deere lays off 600 employees Deere & Co. has cut production of large farm tractors because of 
slow sales, and subsequently laid off 600 workers at its Waterloo, la. 
plant. According to company officials, spring sales of the tractors in the midwest did not reach expecta-tions, just seven percent more than 1983's rock-bottom perfor-mance. Circle No. 133 on Reader Inquiry Card 1LOOSENS HEAVY CLAY, IMPROVES ALKALI SOILS Sof n-Soil gypsum is unique! Works Like Millions of Tiny HoesŽ to loosen heavy clay and improve alkali soil. Nothing else works like gypsum! Just add Sof n-Soil to your lawn, shrubs, trees and garden. You'll find it helps fertilizers work more efficiently, opens the way for air and water to penetrate soil, produces deeper, stronger roots to help plants stand up to summer's dry spells. 2SUPPLIES SECONDARY NUTRIENTS Sof n-Soil gypsum is hydrated calcium sulfate (CaSC^FhO). This natural mineral comes straight from the earth, provides about 20% calcium and 17% sulfate sulfur in readily available form to your plants. And remember, Sof n-Soil is not lime! Far from it! Sof n-Soil won't burn your lawn or appreciably change either the acidity or alkalinity of the soil. And being non-toxic, it's virtually harmless to pets, plants and people. 3COUNTERACTS WINTER SALT DAMAGE Sof n-Soil gypsum can stop the possible harmful effects of winter de-icing salt before they start... and help restore soil damaged by salt run-off from streets and sidewalks. Gypsum neutralizes destruc-
tive sodium ions through the chemical action of 
calcium ions. The soluble calcium actually replaces 
toxic sodium ions attached to clay particles. The result is a marked improvement in aeration and overall soil structure. ? works like millions of tiny ho< LnnSFNR ME/\VYCt AYSOC 00 05 | Carnes honored I by Lawn Institute H James L. Carnes (right), president of Inter-w national Seeds, Halsey, Ore., receives a x plaque from Norman M. Rothwell, presi-dent of The Lawn Institute. The plaque honors Carnes, a past president of The 6 Lawn Institute, for "many years of dedica-te tion, time and effort given to The Lawn q Institute." The award was presented at the X annual Lawn Seed Division meeting at the w American Seed Trade Association's con-^ vention in Denver this summer. < U z < Š Quality is Still the Most Important Element. EVERY PROFESSIONAL KNOWS THAT QUALITY IS STILL THE MOST IMPORTANT ELEMENT IN ANY COMPLETE TURF CARE PROGRAM. Let's face It - low price is no substitute for poor product. Challenged by tough turf problems together with rising costs, you just can't afford to play games with products that don't perform consistently and economically. You need quality turf products you can depend on. You need COUNTRY CLUB and GREENSKEEPER PROFESSIONAL TURF PRODUCTS from LEBANON. COUNTRY CLUB AND GREENSKEEPER FERTILIZERS ARE OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY HOMOGENOUS GRADES MADE TODAY - GIVING YOU MORE FEEDING POWER FOR YOUR DOLLARS. What makes homogenous fertilizers better? Each pellet contains a chemically-balanced combination of N-P-K.regardless of the material's sizing and coverage. The plant root needs only to come in contact with one pellet to receive a balanced diet. Consequently, you get even element 
distribution. WHATEVER YOUR TURF NEEDS, THERE'S A COUNTRY CLUB/GREENSKEEPER PRODUCT SPECIALLY FORMULATED TO MEET THEM - ALL WITHIN YOUR BUDGET! Backed with over 35 years of extensive university and end-use testing, we offer you the most complete line of fertilizers and control products available on the 
market as well as a full range of S.C.U. blends and chemicals. This includes: Ł FERTILIZERS COUNTRY CLUB 18-4-10 90% Org. for Greens and Tees COUNTRY CLUB 18-5-9 50% Org. for Fairways GREENSKEEPER 20-4-10 40% Org. for Fairways GREENSKEEPER 20-8-8 50% Org. GREENSKEEPER 10-6-4 50% Org. Ł FERTILIZERS COMBINED W/CONTROL PRODUCTS COUNTRY CLUB 19-4-9 with BETASAN® 
COUNTRY CLUB 19-4-9 with RONSTAR® COUNTRY CLUB 18-5-9 with BALAN® 
LEBANON "PRO" 32-3-8 with 1.5% OFTANOL® Ł GRANULAR CONTROL PRODUCTS GREENSKEEPER BALAN® 2.5G ë Made in America GREENSKEEPER DURSBAN® 2.32G LEBANON OFTANOL® 1.5G LEBANON BETASAN® 7G Ł SULPHUR COATED UREA COMBINATIONS LEBANON "PRO" 32-4-8 (12 units CRN) 
LEBANON "PRO" 28-6-12(11 units CRN) 
LEBANON "PRO" 20-5-10 CIL MINI PRILLED S.C.U. for greens. LEBANON CHEMICAL has the flexibility to formulate exactly the analysis your turf tests indicate to be most beneficial. We are fully equipped to manufacture your private label requirements when needed. EVERY COUNTRY CLUB AND GREENSKEEPER PRODUCT IS BACKED WITH A TOTAL COMMITMENT TO SERVE YOU BETTER. Our technically experienced staff is eager to assist you in solving turfgrass problems and will design a complete turf care program for you! Plus you're supported by LEBANON'S solid network of distributors throughout the country that ensure you of product availability and prompt service. THIS SEASON, DEPEND ON COUNTRY CLUB AND GREENSKEEPER FERTILIZERS! Call today for more complete information. Distributor inquiries invited. Ea$t 800-233-0628 Pennsylvania 717-273-1687 
New York/ 516-722-4500 New England New Jersey 201-329-4011 Midwest 800-637-2101 Illinois 217-446-0983 Lawn Institute picks officers Norman Rothwell of N.M. Roth-well Seeds, Lindsay, Ontario, 
Canada, was re-elected president of the Lawn Institute at a meeting this past summer. Robert Peterson of E.F. Bur-lingham & Sons, Forest Grove, 
Ore. was chosen vice-president. Robert Russell of J&L Adikes, Jamaica, N.Y. was named secre-tary-treasurer. Executive Com-mittee members chosen were: 
Doyle Jacklin of Jacklin Seed, Post Falls, Ida.; Howard Schuler of Northrup-King, Minneapolis, 
Minn.; and Jim Carnes of Interna-tional Seeds, Halsey, Ore. Other members of the Board of Directors are: Gil Barber, Jim Col-
lins, Dave Doerfler, Jay Glatt, Bill 
Hill, Jon Loft, Ed Mangelsdorf, Cliff Matilla, Scott Patterson, 
Mike Robinson, Bruce Ruppurt, 
John Southerland, Bob Wetsel, 
Francis Wolf and John Zajac. New rhizotron helps research A new rhizotron, which is nearing completion at the University of Nebraska, is expected to help research into turfgrass growth and development. The rhizotron, an underground research facility, is the thirdŠ and largestŠof its kind in the 
country. Others have been con-
structed at Ohio State and Texas A&M. "It's being finished now," said Dr. Robert Shearman recently. 
"We won't get a chance to begin 
studies until next season. Until 
then, we'll be shaking it down to 
make sure things like tem-
perature are consistent with con-ditions outside." Root-cell rooms in the new facility will contain 40 glass-front rooting boxes which will extend from the soil surface to depths as great as eight feet. The facility is twice the size of its closest fac-simile, the rhizotron at OSU. New show set to begin Sept. 7 A new central trade show to serve the landscape, grower and general 
markets will be held at the Odeum in Villa Park, 111. Sept. 
7-9. The Midwest Garden Show is free to pre-registrants, with $2 registration at the door. The Odeum, with room for 200 booths, is located within 20 min-utes of both Chicago metropolitan airports. "Our response so far has been great," says general manager Sid 
Seplowin. "The early schedule 
gives attendees the opportunity to preview programs and offerings 
before committing to new season 
purchases." To register, send your name and address to The Midwest 
Garden Show, 8509 N. Fernald, 
Morton Grove, IL, 60053, or call (312) 966-5410. LEBANON CHEMICAL CORPORATION P.O. Box 180, Lebanon, PA 17042 P.O. Box 647, Danville, IL 61832 Balan® - Elanco Betasan® - Stautter Dursban® Ł Dow Oftanol® - Mobay Ronstaf* - Rhone-Poulenc Emotion, fear hit suburb of Cleveland from page 1 them, etc. An ordinance requiring the leaflets would be difficult to enforce, according to some testi-
mony. "It really came to the commit-tee how difficult all this stuff will be to implement," said Chem-Lawn regional agronomist Gary 
Chambelain, who attended. "There also might be a problem 
with the Ohio Director of Agri-culture, whose power it is to regu-late pesticide use." Chamberlain said the whole situation reeked of "emotion, bias, prejudice and fearŠfrom a very few people." The controversy was imme-diately picked up by the local 
media. At least one television sta-tion ran news spots, and the 
Cleveland Plain Dealer ran an col-umn the next day titled "Killer in the grass?" Other members of the pro-pesticide contingent who showed 
at the preliminary hearing were Dr. Roger Yeary of ChemLawn, 
Doug Halterman of Leisure Lawn, Ron Giffen of Leseo, Gordon Ober of Davey Lawnscape, Page Mays 
of Barefoot Grass and Fred Haskett of Greenworld. Lyndhurst city council was to look at the issue more closely on Aug. 6 when the law director was to brief members. Test fungicides on brown patch The efficacy of seven fungicides registered for Rhizoctonia brown patch in St. AugustinegrassŠ including three experimentáisŠ was recently tested by a plant pathologist with the Texas Agri-cultural Experiment Station. PCNB, pencycuron, iprodine and furmecyclox effectively con-trolled the disease while etaconazole was ineffective. Phy-totoxic effects were observed among PCNB and furmecyclox treatments. Iprodione, PCNB and fur-mecyclox were also the most active inhibitors of Rhizoctonia solani in petri dish tests. Fertilizer rights transfer hands Growth Products Ltd., White Plains, N.Y. has acquired the rights to manufacture and market Nitro-26 CRN nationally. The liquid methylene-diurea product is widely used in the lawn care industry as a controlled release, non-burning nitrogen source. Nitro-26 CRN will be available through Agri Turf, South Deer-
field, Mass.; Moyer and Son, 
Souderton, Pa.; Benham Chemi-
cal, Detroit, Mich.; Blakley Fertil-izer, Springfield, 111.; and J. Mol-lema, Grand Rapids, Mich. Jet-action deflector provides straight spreading edge for use along sidewalks, driveways and ornamental plantings. (Optional accessory) Put the LESCO Spreader to work for you. Order today. Call Barb toll free: (800) 321-5325 Nationwide (800) 362-7413 In Ohio LESCO Lesco, Inc., 20005 Lake Road, Rocky River, Ohio 44116 (216) 333-9250 Circle No. 118 on Reader Inquiry Card We sell the patented ChemLawn Gun. Z Penn State starts museum w Penn State University, located in mid-r Pennsylvania, has begun a lawn care g equipment museum, according to sources there. Such old pieces of equipmentŠ some dating back to the 1920sŠhave been >* gathered as lawn mowers, fertilizer ^ spreaders and aerators. A special building for housing the museum has been erected G on the Valentine Research Center grounds. 5 For more information, contact the Agron-
w omy Department at Penn State University, ^ Tyson Building, University Park, PA, U 16802. 
Z 
£ < PLCAA' Mark your calendar! You won't want to miss the green industry event of the year: the 1984 PLCAA Annual Conference and Show, Tampa, Florida, Nov. 12-15 NEW LOCATION Ł NEW PRODUCTS Ł NEW SEMINARS Ł NEW SPEAKERS The 1984 Annual Conference and Show of the Professional Lawn Care Association of American moves South to the heart of sunny Florida-Thmpa! PLCAA/Thmpa '84 is devoted exclusively to making you a better lawn care businessman. PLCAA/ Thmpa '84 is where you'll find an exciting blend of new products, new technologies, and new opportunities. Join the hundreds of lawn care businessmen who will attend PLCAA/ Tampa '84. Don't miss the out-standing lineup of workshops and 
seminars. Learn how to use the latest management and marketing 
techniques to make your business more productive ana more profitable. KEYNOTE ADDRESS "SUCCESSFUL FAILURES" JAMES A. LOVELL, Senior Vice President, Centel Corp. Keynote speaker and former astronaut Capt. James A. Lovell will boost PLCAA/Tampa '84 into orbit on opening day (November 13, 1984). His topic is a provocative one: 
"Successful Failures" Don't miss this inspirational public speaker! THE TRADE SHOW Tampa's ultra-modern Curtis Hixon Convention Center plays host to the biggest gathering of lawn care 
suppliers, equipment makers, and manufacturers in the five-year history of the PLCAA Conference and Snow. Exhibit viewing hours are 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM Tbesday and Wednesday. See the latest your industry has to offer! EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION AND RECEPTION Make plans to arrive Monday, November 12th, and take advantage of the Early Bird Registration and Reception Theme Party (6:30 PM to 8:30 PM). Pick up your badge and convention packet and be ready to go Tuesday morning when the 
Show opens. NEW! EARLY BIRD WORKSHOPS Yet another reason to come early this yearŠtwo "Early Bird" work-shops are scheduled for Monday, November 12th: HOW TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS Panel: LAWRENCE D. KOKKELENBERG, Ph.D., President, 
Kokkelenberg Corp.; JAMES SKELTON, MBA, Principal, Ross-Payne & Assoc., Inc.; ED T. WANDTKE, CPA, Assoc. Advisor, Advisor Associates, Inc.; and RICHARD I. LEHR, PA, PLCAA Attorney. PROMOTIONAL TECHNIQUES FOR THE LAWN CARE MARKET Panel: KATHY COPLEY, Editor, Grounds Maintenance; and RAYMOND L. GIBSON, President, Ohio City Communications. SEMINARS AND TECH SESSIONS An outstanding group of speakers and topics have been assembled for this year's educational sessions: OUR CHANGING INDUSTRY ROBERT EARLEY, Group Publisher, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc. REGULATORY ASSISTANCE THROUGH THE PESTICIDE PUBLIC POLICY FOUNDATION (3PF). DAVID H. DIETZ, Principal, David H. Dietz & Assoicates THE OFFICE-ASSET OR LIABILITY? TOM HOFER, Vice President, Spring-Green Lawn Care Corp. STRESS MANAGEMENT; HIS, HERS, OURS TOM JADIN, Director, Winnebago Mental Health Institute REDUCING CANCELLATIONS LAWRENCE D. KOKKELENBERG, 
Ph.D. President, Kokkelenberg Corp. PRINCIPLES OF TREE & SHRUB FERTILIZATION Dr. ROGER C. FUNK, Vice President, Davey Landscape FERTILIZATION OF SOUTHERN ORNAMENTALS Dr. ROBERT BLACK, Urban Horticultural Specialist, Florida Coorperative Extension Service, University of Florida YES! I'm interested in attending PLCAA's 5th Annual Conference and TVade Show. Send me more information on: Ł REGISTRATION Ł EXHIBITING Ł MEMBERSHIP Ł POST CONFERENCE CRUISE Ł SPOUSE PROGRAM Ł PRE-CONFERENCE DISNEY TOUR NAME COMPANY. ADDRESS _ CITY, STATE, ZIP Mail to: Professional Lawn Care Association of America 1225 Johnson Ferry Road, NE Ł Suite B220 Ł Marietta, Georgia 30067 SOUND BUSINESS CONSIDERATIONS FOR MOWING /MAINTENANCE COMPANIES ROD BAILEY, President, Evergreen Services Corporation TURFGRASS RESEARCH UPDATE: WATER Dr. JAMES B. BEARD, Professor of Tbrfgrass Science, Texas A&M University THATCH: GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS Panel: Dr. KIRK A. HURTO, Ph.D., Research Specialist, Chemlawn Corp.; 
Dr. A.J. POWELL, 1\irf Extension Specialist, University of Kentucky; JOHN C. PRUSA, Vice President of Operations, Lawnmark, Inc.; Dr. CHARLES PEACOCK, T\irf Extension 
Specialist, University of Florida HOW TO AVOID AND RESPOND TO UNION ACTIVITY Panel: RICHARD I. LEHR, PA, PLCAA Attorney; PAUL DAVEREDE, 
President, Ever-Green Lawn Corp.; JAMES R. SACKETT, President, Ever-Green Lawn Care, Inc. EXPANDING INTO THE COMMERCIAL LAWN CARE MARKET IRVIN DICKSON, Vice President, Native TVee, Inc. PLUS MUCH MORE! SPECIAL SPOUSE PROGRAM... DISNEY WORLD SIGHT SEEING...POST CONFERENCE CRUISE One of the best things about visiting Tampa is that if offers a wealth of places to visit and things to do. This year's PLCAA Conference and Show offers a chance to take advantage of some exciting fun options for you 
and your spouse, including a special one-day "Spouse Program" tour of 
the Sarasota area, a pre-conference tour of Disney World and Epcot Center-even a post-conference Caribbean cruise! Indicate your interest on the return coupon and you will be supplied with costs 
and details. Jacklin builds new warehouse Construction on a new 22,500 square foot warehouse at Nezperce, Ida. at Jacklin Seed Company's facility was to have been completed July 25th, accord-ing to Nezperce manager Jim Hen-
derson and general manager 
Duane Jacklin. "It's our intention to work closely with our Pacific North-west producers to help make grass 
seed production as profitable as possible," says Jacklin, alluding to plans for a 3600 square foot office 
building inside the warehouse and the addition of a new mill line for seed conditioning. "We're exploring markets in every corner of the world to help make that happen. The new building will help provide ware-housing for seed to be marketed throughout the world." Herbicide gets experiment label Acclaim herbicide, for post-emer-
gence control of smooth and hairy 
crabgrass, goosegrass, barn-yardgrass, foxtails and panicums, recently received an experimen-tal use permit from the EPA. According to Dr. Peter Dernoeden of the University of Maryland, some precautions should be taken in using this 
product: Ł do not apply to turf less than one year old; Ł do not apply when weeds are under drought stress; Ł do not mow 48 hours before or after application; Ł delay irrigation until her-bicide dries; Ł do not tank mix Acclaim with othr pesticides or fertilizer; Ł Acclaim may temporarily stunt some cultivars of Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass; and Ł do not apply broadleaf her-bicides within five days of application. 2,500 to attend irrigation show "Challenges of a Changing World" will be the theme of the fifth annual International Irri-
gation Exposition and Con-ference Oct. 21-24 in Kansas City, Mo. The show is expected to draw more than the 2,500 who attended 
last year. "The developments and applications to be presented in Kansas City have worldwide sig-
nificance," says Walter D. Ander-
son, executive vice-president of the sponsoring Irrigation Associa-tion. "Last year, the show 
attracted buyers from 27 coun-tries." The 400-booth exposition will be held at H. Roe Bartle Hall. For more information, contact Karen 
Noyes, 13975 Connecticut Ave., Silver Spring, MD, 20906; (301) 871-1200. Circle the Reader Service numbers of those items of interest to you. For rapid response, use the peel-off label from the front cover NAME TITLE FIRM ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP PHONE( ) 101 116 131 146 161 176 191 206 221 236 251 266 281 296 311 326 341 102 117 132 147 162 177 192 207 222 237 252 267 282 297 312 327 342 103 118 133 148 163 178 193 208 223 238 253 268 283 298 313 328 343 104 119 134 149 164 179 194 209 224 239 254 269 284 299 314 329 344 105 120 135 150 165 180 195 210 225 240 255 270 285 300 315 330 345 106 121 136 151 166 181 196 211 226 241 256 271 286 301 316 331 346 107 122 137 152 167 182 197 212 227 242 257 272 287 302 317 332 347 108 123 138 153 168 183 198 213 228 243 258 273 288 303 318 333 348 109 124 139 154 169 184 199 214 229 244 259 274 289 304 319 334 349 110 125 140 155 170 185 200 215 230 245 260 275 290 305 320 335 350 111 126 141 156 171 186 201 216 231 246 261 276 291 306 321 336 351 112 127 142 157 172 187 202 217 232 247 262 277 292 307 322 337 352 113 128 143 158 173 188 203 218 233 248 263 278 293 308 323 338 353 114 129 144 159 174 189 204 219 234 249 264 279 294 309 324 339 354 115 130 145 160 175 190 205 220 235 250 265 280 295 310 325 340 355 WWNGIRE INDUSTRY SEPTEMBER 1984 This card expires November 15.1984 PLEASE CHECK BELOW YOUR PRIMARY BUSINESS AT THIS LOCATION: A. CONTRACTOR OR SERVICES: Ł Chemical lawn care company Ł Mowing/maintenance lawn care company B. SUPPLIER: Ł Chemical dealer and/or distributor Ł Equipment dealer and/or distributor Ł Seed broker/dealer C. OTHER Please specify: I would like to receive (continue receiving) LAWN CARE INDUSTRY each month: Yes Ł No Ł Your Signature. Date NO POSTAGE NECESSARY IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES BUSINESS REPLY CARDl == FIRST CLASS PERMIT NO. 665 DULUTH, MINNESOTA POSTAGE WILL BE PAID BY ADDRESSEE READER SERVICE DEPARTMENT L4WN OIRE INDUSn?/ POST OFFICE BOX 6080 DULUTH, MINNESOTA 55806-9780 l,l,l—l.l,l—l.ll——ll—l,l,,l,..ll—l,ll 1,11 Liquid vs. dry controversy This spring, one midwestern lawn care company drew the ire of its competitors by making unsubstantiated claims that its granular chemicals were agron-
omically better than liquid form-ulations. Ever since ChemLawn spray-ed that first front lawn, lifting the eyebrows of a gardener next door (who was dutifully applying granular fertilizers to the turf), there has existed a controversy over the attributes of spraying or spreading fertilizer. With recent product devel-opments, that controversy now 
encompasses insecticides and herbicides. Liquid or dry? Is one better or not? Why or why not? Beginning this month, LAWN CARE INDUSTRY will attempt to get to the bottom of the liquid vs. dry controversy. In a staff-written 
story this month, the viewpoints 
of several LCOs are examined. Each was asked whether he used liquid or granular materials, why, and whether he would consider changing. The responses were interesting, and give a good 
indication at how the lawn care industry looks at the effectiveness of its own materials. In subsequent months, we'll be getting down to the nitty-gritty. Next, Dr. John Street of Ohio State University,Šour technical 
advisorŠwill be writing a piece which measures the benefits of 
liquid fertilizers against the benefits of granular fertilizers. Following that, we're enlisting the help of Dr. Bob Shearman of 
the University of Nebraska and Dr. Pat Vittum of the University of Massachusetts. Dr. Shearman will examine liquid vs. dry 
herbicides and Dr. Vittum liquid vs. dry insecticides. In addition, Iowa State's Dr. Nick Christians does a survey of liquid fertilizers this month, and another prominent professor will survey granulars later. Each of the technical pieces will be devoted to strict agro-
nomic research results. Other 
aspects of the controversy (such 
as economics) are mentioned in 
this month's story. Though we won't try to influence what type of chemicals 
your company uses, it is hoped that this seriesŠwhich may 
eventually be available in reprintsŠwill be a definitive statement on the benefits of using either liquid or dry materials. In this manner, LAWN CARE INDUSTRY hopes to bring a semblance of professionalism to 
the marketing aspects of lawn 
care. Perhaps we can help you in the industry itself avoid some of the outrageous claims made in the literature you're distributing. Yes, the industry is fast using up its prospective customer list. Yes, competition is getting tougher. But that is no reason for misleading advertising, which has no place in lawn care. So, the sooner the industry learns the real benefits of certain materials, the better it will be. In the end, it will help make us a better industry. Jerry Roche Editor > ? Z n > po m Z O C C/5 H pa C/5 m -a H 
H co m pa Š> to 00 ^ Mowing equipment Mid-sizes gaining popularity >-0Ï H CO D Q Z w e* < u According to a 1983 survey, sales of mid-size walk-behind mowers are booming. For two good rea-
sons: namely, price and efficiency. While a large riding mower might cost the average landscape 
maintenance company $9,000 to $12,000, excellent mid-size (32- to 52-inch) walk-behinds are avail-
able for $3,000 or less. In addition, many LCOs think that they are most cost effective, and workers seem to find them more maneu-
verable and cooler to operate. As mid-size walk-behinds become increasingly popular, LAWN CARE INDUSTRY offers this list of some of the most popu-lar brands available, in alpha-betical order: Bunton Five Bunton-Goodall models are available. The 40- and 48-inch models come with six engine options: 8hp JLO, 8hp diesel, llhp Briggs & Stratton, llhp Briggs bat-tery start, lOhp Tecumseh or 16hp Briggs Twin. Each mower has six forward ground speeds, independent of blade and engine speed. And each of the five models is available in three types: lawn mowers for the finest lawns, turf mowers for rough lawns and turf, and mulching mowers for high 
grasses and weeds. 
Circle No. 301 on Reader Inquiry Card John Deere John Deere has four self-pro-A Powerful, Anti-Pesticide Lobby is Substituting Scare-Talk for Science. You are the Target. FACT: The overwhelming, supportable, verified con-clusions of the scientific community find that pesticides are not an immediate, inherent, or significant danger to our society. FACT: The obvious benefits of pesticides to mankind far outweigh any possible proven risk. But sometimes facts aren't enough. A powerful, well-funded and growing coalition of self-appointed "public interest" groups are mounting an ever-accelerating attack on pesticides and their use. Lacking hard, scientific data to support their cause, they have substituted emotion, pseudo-science, and sophisticated media manipulation. If they succeed, the result will be disastrous for our health and our economy. And if the use of pesticides is 
an important part of your business, you would most likely be out of business. This is not scare talk. The threat is real. Item: HR 3818, a proposed congressional amendment to FIFRA would devastate the pesticide registration process. Item: Federal courts, by relying on National Environ-mental Policy Act technicalities, have banned govern-mental herbicide spraying. Item: Recently introduced HR 5495 would tighten governmental procedures for changing pesticide toler-
ances and exemptions, and would authorize emergency action with respect to pesticides which "present an imminent hazard to the public health" This threatening trend in national legislation, combined with the absolute explosion of state and local government pesticide regulatory efforts, could result in nothing less than 
an effective ban on pesticides. What can we do about it? Plenty! We must tell our story. We must reassert the benefits we gain from pesticides - disease 
prevention; pest-free hospitals, With all that's going on, I want to stand up for my rights! Send me more information on 3PF and what it can do for me and my business. restaurants and homes; an agricultural industry that is the envy of the world; and an enjoyable environment. That's why we're asking your support of 3PF - The Pesticide Public Policy Foundation. 3PF was organized in September, 1983, by the National Arborists Association, the Professional Lawn Care Association of America, 
and other interested affiliates. The goals of 3PF are straightforward: Ł To identify, inform, involve, and educate those of us who recognize that pesticides are necessary and safe to use for health protection, environmental enhance-ment, and our nation's economic growth. Ł To combat federal, state, and local regulatory initiatives that unreasonably or unnecessarily impact pesticide development and usage. Ł To get the facts to the decision-makers, the media, and the public before the emotional momentum building against pesticides overwhelms all opposition. To succeed, we need your help. It's that simple. And we need your financial backing. The groups seeking to cripple pesticide usage have vast financial resources to draw from. If we are to have any chance 
against this juggernaut we must have sufficient funds to put up a fight. Without your financial support we will not succeed. Join us now. The final chapter in the pesticide story is yours to complete. If you want to help, return the coupon or call 3PF today. NAME. COMPANY. CALL TOLL FREE: 1-800-438-7773. ADDRESS. CITY. STATE_ .ZIP. PHONE. Ł I want to help, but please send more information. Ł I want to help now, so I'm enclosing my check for $ Mail to: Pesticide Public Policy Foundation 1511 KSt.NW, Suite 623 Washington, D.C. 20005 pelled models, all with 11 hp Briggs & Stratton engines. They all feature a variable-speed rear-wheel drive systems with six for-ward ground speeds. Electric start is optional for the 11 hp engine. And a 16 hp IC twin-cylinder engine with electric start is available as an option on the 48 
and 52-inchers. Circle No. 302 on Reader Inquiry Card Exmark Three models make up the mid-size Ranger line, in 32-, 36-and 48-inch cutting widths. Each is built tough for low-mainte-nance operation, according to the manufacturer. The simplicity of Ranger's design allows minor repairs to be performed in the 
field by the operator. Each of the three models is powered by an 11 hp Briggs & 
Stratton engine, or an optional llhp Honda engine. Circle No. 303 on Reader Inquiry Card Gravely Gravely's 40- and 50-inch pro-fessional walk-behinds come with five-speed all-gear transmis-sions, instant forward/reverse, wide wheel spacing, easily-
adjustable deck height in 3/e-inch increments, electric PTO clutch, MANUFACTURER/SIZE STD. ENGINE Bunton 32 8hp B&S 36" 8hp Honda 40 6 options 48 6 options 52 16hp B&S Deere 32" 11hp B&S 36 11hp B&S 48" 11hp B&S 52" 11hp B&S Gravely 40 4 options 50" 4 options Jacobsen 32 8hp B&S 36" 3 options 50 4 options F.D. Kees 32" 2 options 36 2 options 48" 2 options Kut-Kwick 36-J 10hp Koh 36-H 16hp Koh 36-HT 16hp Koh 48-H 16hp Koh 48-HT 16hp Koh Ransomes 32 11 hp B&S 36" 11 hp B&S 48" 11 hp B&S Sensation 36 2 options 48" 2 options Toro 36" 2 options 52 11hp B&S and an interlock system that pre-vents engine starts with the mower or transmission engaged. Two grass catchers are avail-able as options, a wire mesh bas-ket and a side dump. Circle No. 304 on Reader Inquiry Card Jacobsen You get a choice of three cut-ting widths with Jacobsen machines. The 36-incher comes with a choice of engines: either an 11 hp Briggs & Stratton an 11 hp Honda or a 12 hp JLO (two-cycle); the 50-incher with either an 11 or 16 hp Briggs & Stratton, an 11 hp Honda or a 12 hp JLO. Five forward speeds and one reverse give ground speeds from 1 to 4 mph. Turning radius is zero 
inside and 32 inches outside. Circle No. 305 on Reader Inquiry Card F.D. Kees Kees also has three sizes avail-able, each of which can be equipped with either an 11 hp Briggs & Stratton or 11 hp Honda engine. Top speed is 4 mph. A fully baffled deck, specially designed to build high velocity air flow for efficient grass discharge is standard on all three sizes. Circle No. 306 on Reader Inquiry Card Kut-Kwick Three series of intermediate mowers are offered by Kut-Kwick: the J Series (36-inch), the H Series (36-, 48-inch) and the HT Series (36-, 48-inch). The manufacturer makes these CUTTING HEIGHTS GRASS-CATCHER? SUGG. PRICE 1 3/4"- 4 3fe" Yes $1998 2 - 4 3^3" Yes $2319 2 - 4 3^3" Yes $2578/up 2 - 4 3^3" Yes $2652/up 2 - 4 3^3" Yes $3574 1 3^" - 6 1/2" Yes $2299 1 3^" - 6 1/2" Yes $2595 1 3^" - 6 1/2" Yes $2810 1 3^" - 6 1/2" Yes $2845 1 3/4" - 4" Yes $2399/up 1 3/4" - 4" Yes $2499/up 1-4 Yes $2600 1-4 Yes $2700/up 1-4 Yes $2950/up 1 yr-5" Yes N/A 1 yr-5" Yes N/A 1 yr-5" Yes N/A 1-5 No $3696 1 -6' No $4529 1 -6' No $4820 1 -6' No $5075 1 -6' No $5366 N/A Yes N/A N/A Yes N/A N/A Yes N/A 1 y?" - 4 y*" Yes N/A 1"-5" Yes N/A 1"-4" Yes $2292/up 1"-4" Yes $2717 Circle No. 127 on Reader Inquiry Card Ł claims: as long-lasting as any on the market; lowest maintenance costs and best operation under abusive or rough operating condi-
tions; able to practically and 
safely mow while climbing, trav-ersing and turning on 40-degree 
slopes. J Series mowers can go as fast as 5 mph, the other series to 6 mph. 
All have five forward speeds. Circle No. 307 on Reader Inquiry Card Ransomes Ransomes, makers of the popu-lar Bob-Cat line of walk-behinds, has three interediates. Bob-Cat speeds are from 2 to 4 mph, and cutting height from IV2 to 4 inches. Each has two heavy-
duty caster wheels at the front with roller bearings, non-clogging 
caster yokes and heavy-duty cas-ter supports with grease fitting. Inside turning radius is zero, outside turning radius 28 inches 
on all three models. 
Circle No. 308 on Reader Inquiry Card Sensation Sensation's 36-inch mower comes with an 11 hp Briggs & Strat-ton engine or an 11 hp Honda. The cutting deck is offset to snake through areas other mowers with 
the same cutting width cannot. It comes with a one-year warranty. The 48-incher, which has a top speed of 5.6 mph, comes with an 11 
or 16 hp Briggs & Stratton engine. Another feature is its dual-inde-pendent braking system to effortlessly guide the mower 
around tight corners. Circle No. 309 on Reader Inquiry Card Toro Three different intermediates are available from Toro in two sizes: a 36-incher with an 8 hp engine, a 36-incher with an 11 hp 
engine and a 52-incher with an 11 hp engine. Beginning next fall, several new options will be announced, including several additional engine options, both 2- and 4-cycle. Toro also plans on revealing a 44-inch walk-behind in the spring. Each of the current models travels up to 4.5 mph. Circle No. 310 on Reader Inquiry Card > z n > 70 m Z a c C/3 H 70 -< C/3 m H3 H n cs m 70 CD CO A | ^k A f| The Helical Cone ŁVI p lUf J delivers product I A V Vi evenly, consistently Scotts* R-8 Professional Rotary spreader is definitely different from all other spreaders. It's the only one with the unique Helical ConeŽ* pattern regulator, a precision mecha-nism that spreads particles of a wide range of densities in a uniform pattern every time, eliminating the costly, time-consuming cross-hatching of half-rate applications. A uniform, con-trolled application is ^ only one of the many advantages and innovations of the new R-8 Professional Rotary spreader. To find out aboufall of them, call your ProTurf, Tech Rep. Scotts r m ^ • 1984, The O.M Scott & Sons Company, a subsidiary of ITT Corporatidlfc Marysville, Ohio 43041 All rights reserved ŁPatent Rending V LEHR ON LABOR T GO OÍ OC w DQ S W H 
CL 
W C/3 OC H co D Q Z u oc: < u z £ < How drunks can break you Public concern and outrage over accidents caused by drunken drivers continues to build. The Federal government has requested that states increase the 
legal drinking age to 21. In New Jersey, a homeowner lost a court 
case after a guest who had left his home inebriated caused some 
damage. In another case, a drunken driver who caused the death of 
another driver agreed to pay the widow $25,000 a year for 20 
years; in another case, a tavern 
agreed to an out-of court set-
tlement of more than $9 million to the widows and victims of a 
driver who left the bar intox-
icated, after having been served 14 drinks. Unquestionably, the danger to others caused by drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs has a significant impact on employers, such as LCOs whose Trim Your Costs With CLC1® is the most effective software solution in the chemi-cal lawn care industry today. Increase your share of the rapidly growing lawn care market with a com-puter system from DMSI. Take a look at the best Š look into CLC1®. CLCI® is available in MS. DOS to operate on any IBM compatible micro computer. itmsi 6910 Pacific Street, Suite 305 Omaha, NE 68106 (402) 553-8005 Distribution Management Systems, Inc. Send Tor Your TREE Brochure Name Title Address . City Phone ( Business . State . . Zip. employees drive company vehicles. A recent case decided by the Supreme Court of Texas, Otis 
Engineering Corp. vs. Clark, upheld a lower court decision that an employer may be liable 
for damages caused by an em-
ployee sent home in an obvious-ly intoxicated state by his 
supervisor. An Otis supervisor sent the employee home, in the employee's own car, in the middle of the shift because he 
was too drunk to work. On the way home, the employee was in an automobile accident that killed two women. A wrongful death action against the indiv-idual and Otis Engineering Co. was filed by the surviving husbands. The court upheld the right of an individual to bring a cause for wrongful death against a cor-poration under the facts of this case. According to the court, it 
should have been foreseeable by 
the employer that the intoxi-
cated employee was likely to 
cause damage to himself, others Dealing with heavy drinking In the event an employee either 
shows up for work, or appears 
during the course of the day to 
be under the influence of drugs, an LCO should consider any of the following steps: 1) Immediately suspend the employee's driving privileges, 
pending an investigation into 
the matter. 2) Call either a family mem-ber or a taxi cab to take the employee home. (If the employer pays for the cab fare, it may be deducted from the employee's pay, provided it does not bring the wages for the week below the minimum 
wage for each hour worked.) 3) In the event the employee becomes abusive or attempts to resist efforts to transport him home safely, consider con-
tacting the police. 4) An employee who has these types of problems at the workplace may be signalling to the employer that he is in need of counselling and guidance. Consider requiring the employee to obtain counselling if he is not terminated for that 
incident. 5) Establish as a matter of policy that employees who drive company vehicles under the influence of either alcohol 
or non-prescription drugs may 
be subject to immediate termi-nation. ŠRichard I. Lehr or property. Furthermore, the employer exercised control over the employee and had an op-
portunity to take action that would have avoided the tragedy. The court stated: "When, because of an employee's in-incapacity, the employer exer-
cises control over the employee, the employer has a duty to take 
such action as a reasonable, pru-dent employer under similar cir-cumstances would take to prevent the employee from causing an unreasonable risk of harm to oth-ers." This case is an example of the types of actions that may arise in the future concerning drunken 
drivers and employers. Em-
ployers such as LCOs who provide LETTERS To the editor: The "study" reported in your August issue was not done by a 
Montgomery County (Md.) con-
sumer affairs group. It was, in fact, compiled by Federation Against Regulatory 
Excess (F.A.R.E.) in response to 
the county attempting to intro-duce negative legislation that 
would affect our industry. 
F.A.R.E. is composed of over 75 businesses that operate within Montgomery County. The most important con-clusions from the study were not mentioned in the LCI article. They are: (1) There are more consumer complaints over written contracts 
than oral. (2) Most complaints are related to results. (3)Safety of chemicals has never been an issue. (4) No other industry in the area can boast of such an excellent 
consumer complaint record; less 
than 0.04% per year, based on the estimated number of applications 
made in the county. We are still fighting the narrow-mindedness of county officials 
and special interest garden club 
groups over potential legislation. 
Their battle cry seems to be "don't blind us with facts while we save the world from themselves." Because our industry is being attacked on many local levels, we 
need to prepare for these battles by gathering facts such as those at 
consumer affairs offices. The county officials didn't even know what they had on fileŠif they did, perhaps all the local special inter-est groups would have been quickly quieted. James Madison, our fourth President, warned us long ago to 
be prepared by saying: "Knowl-edge will forever govern igno-
rance, and a people that mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power that knowledge brings." Philip E. Catron F.A.R.E. ChemLawn Westminster, MD employees with company vehi-cles have an even greater respon-sibility to ensure to the public that employees are safe and careful 
drivers. The increasing pressure by the public to take swift, stern action 
against drunk drivers will con-tinue to escalate. And juries will hold employers accountable for 
the drug or alcohol use of its 
employees who drive company 
vehicles. iLlß Richard I. Lehr Attorney Sirote, Permutt, et. al. Turf award The turfgrass manage-ment program at Penn State University recent-ly won the Northeastern Regional Award for Excellence in Agri-cultural Technology Instruction. The $7,000 award is granted each year in four regions by R.J. Reynolds Industries 
Inc. and the National Association of State Departments of Agri-culture. Accepting the award were Dr. Thomas Watschke, professor of turfgrass science (left) and Dr. James L. Star-ling, head of the agron-omy department. Mec Amine-D THE 3-WAY COMPOUND THAT'S 3 WAYS BETTER! New Mec Amine-D from Clean Crop® is the effective Dicamba/ Mecoprop/2,4-D formula you've used and trusted for years. Now it's better because it comes to you more economically, faster, and in more sizes than you ever got it before! Like its predecessor, Mec Amine-D controls tough broadleaf weeds safely and without repeated treatments... it's biodegradable and vapor free after application . . . it's easy to use, temperature tolerant, stays stable for years. Be Clean Crop Confident with Mec Amine-D. For more helpful information call 1-800-228-0096, or 1-800-642-TURF in Nebraska. (JAP Special Products RO. Box 37800 a ConAgra company Omaha, N E 68137 Take vour choice... Liquid fertilizers for lawn care COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE By Nick Christians Iowa State University Until a few years ago, fertilization for lawn care meant granular fertiliza-tion, and most of the innovations and research in turfgrass nutrition 
traditionally centered around granular materials. The rapid growth of the lawn care industry over the past decade, however, has resulted in some changes in the emphasis of research and development in the fertilizer industry. Nearly all of the liquid fertilizers that are used in the United States are derived from ammonia (NH3), which is produced by reacting the nitro-
gen (N) from the atmosphere with hydrogen. Once the ammonia is formed, it is further reacted to produce the variety of fertilizers now available on the market. One of the most widely-used of the reaction products of ammonia is urea, which is marketed as a white, crystaline material containing 45-46 percent N by weight, or as a urea solution containing 22-25 percent N by weight. Urea is very soluble 
in water, and has a relatively low 
burn potential when compared to 
other highly water soluble N 
sources such as ammonium nitrate. Urea has been a very popular fertilizer material in this industry because of its low cost and its compatibility in tank-mixed solu-tions with many of the pesticides used on lawns. Urea can be further combined or reacted with other materials to form a variety of fertilizer prod-ucts. Among these are methylol urea and methylene urea, which are formed by reacting urea with materials such as formaldehyde. Methylol urea is composed of single urea molecules combined with a single-carbon alcohol and methylene ureas are composed of chains, or polymers, of several urea molecules. The characteristics of these reaction products vary with chain length. Methylol urea is very close to urea in burn potential and nitrogen release rate. Longer methylene ureas have a low burn potential and release N for planl use over an extended period o* time. Methylol ureas and short chain methylene ureas are water soluble, and are applied as liquid solutions. Longer chain methylene ureas are water insoluble, and must be applied as suspensions. A number of new fertilizer products containing urea, combinations of urea and methylol urea or urea and methylene ureas are not available. A number of them are listed in the accompanying table, along with infor-mation on their total N content, and percentages of free urea and water 
insoluble N. Of these materials, Folian, Formolene, Fluf, GP4340, GP4341, GP4318, Nitro 26 CRN, Powder Blue and Wonder-Flo are com-mercially available. Fluf-Plus, Tuf, Fan, and Fan N-P-K are experimen-
tals. Formolene, GP4340 and GP4341 are water soluble materials which contain 30 percent N, 50 percent of which comes from urea and 50 percent from methylol urea. GP4341 differs in that it contains two per-cent potassium whereas GP4340 contains only N. Nitrogen release and burn potential of these fertilizers is very close to those of urea solutions, although research at Iowa State University 
indicates that there is some reduction in burn where combinations of methylol urea and urea is used rather than urea alone. One of the advantages of these liquids is their high nitrogen con-centration. Of the liquid fertilizers available to turfgrass managers, Formolene, GP4340 and GP4341 have the highest concentration of N per unit volume. Fluf and GP4318 are short chain methylene urea products which contain 18 percent N by weight. The percent of the total nitrogen which is in the free urea (unreacted) form is generally less than 16 percent for Fluf and is listed as 9.6 percent for GP4318. Twenty-five percent of the 
total N in Fluf is listed as water insoluble nitrogen (WIN). This is much higher than GP4318, which is listed at 3.6 percent WIN. Because of the Fertilizers for use in the liquid lawn care industry WIN, both materials are applied as suspensions. Nitro-26 CRN is a short chain methylene urea product composed primarily of methylene diureas. It contains 26 percent total N, less than 15 percent of which is free urea. There is no WIN in Nitro-26 CRN, so it is applied as a solution. Nitro-26 CRN differs from the Nitro-26 available last year in that it contains a stabilizing material to extend its shelf life to at least six months if properly stored. Tests at ISU have indicated that short chain methylene ureas have the capability of providing a desirable controlled release of N with a minimal amount of foliar burn. These products are likely to become more widely used by the lawn care industry in the future. Folian and Wonder-Flo both contain 122 percent N, all of which is in the form of urea. The latter is a new material being marketed for use in 
the liquid lawn care industry by the Nutra-Flo Co. of Sioux City, la. It is 
advertised to be formulated with "Nitro-Fix" that delays the natural 
breakdown of urea. In addition to the 12 percent N from urea, it contains three percent potassium and three commercial name nitrogen total producer source nitrogen free urea water insoluble nitrogen % %of total nitrogen GP4340* georgia-pacific methylol urea 30 50 0 GP4341 georgia-pacific methylol urea 30 50 0 
GP4318 georgia-pacific methylene urea 18 9.6 3.6 folian allied chemical urea 12 100 0 formolene hawkeye chemical methylol urea 30 50 0 fluf w. a. cleary methylene urea 18 <16 25 nitro-26 CRM c. p. chemical methylene urea 26 <15 0 powder blue NOR-AM chemical methylene urea 38 66 wonder-flo nutra-flo urea 12 100 0 EXPERIMENTALS tuf w. a. cleary methylene urea 18 <16 : 25 fluf-plus w. a. cleary methylene urea 18 <16 20 fan w. a. cleary alkyldiene urea 20 <20 0 fan N-P-K w. a. cleary alkyldiene urea 16 <16 0 Commercial names are listed for the convenience of the reader and do not constitute endorsement by the author or by Iowa State University There is likely a small amount of free urea in Powder Blue, however, none is claimed by the manufacturer on the label Dr. Nick Christians Dr. Nick Christians, a graduate of Ohio State University, is an assis-tant professor of horticulture at Iowa State University, and a fre-quent contributor to trade and pro-fessional journals. He is a member of the American Society of Agronomy and the American Society for Hor-ticultural Science. percent magnesium. Powder Blue is a long chain methylene urea which is sold as a 
powder. It can be mixed with water and applied as a suspension. It has a very low burn potential and a rather slow N release rate. Because of its very slow release, it is often tank-mixed with additional water soluble urea to provide an initial response along with the extended response from the controlled release, methylene urea. It has proven to be a flexible material for tank-mixing, and it is very popular 
with the lawn care industry. The W.C. Cleary Corp. is active in developing and testing new fer-
tilizer materials for use in lawn 
care. Tuf is similar to Fluf, only it contains a nitrification inhibitor to keep N in the ammonium form once it has been released into the 
soil solution. Fluf-Plus is a meth-ylene urea product chemically 
similar to Fluf, although it is for-med thorugh a different reaction 
process. Fan materials are listed 
as alkylidiene ureas which are, chemically, formed of urea and varying chain lengths of carbon molecules containing double bonds in their structures. Fluf-Plus, Tuf, Fan and Fan N-P-K were each included in foliar burn studies at ISU over the past two years. Fluf-Plus was found to have a very low burn potential 
even at rates of 2 lbs. N/1000 sq.ft. applied in mid-summer. Tuf was between Fluf and urea 
in burn potential while Fan and Fan N-P-K burned more than Tuf, and were very close in burn 
potential to urea under most conditions. As the lawn care industry con-tinues to grow, there are likely to be many more innovations in the liquid fertilizer industry. The uni-
versities will continued to be involved in testing these mate-rials as they become available, and more information will be released in the future. But I would recommend that those professionals involved in the turfgrass industry also become involved in testing. The true test of any material depends on its ability to satisfy the needs of those who will be using it in the 
field. New lawns 17 Late summer perfect time to establish turf in most parts of the northern U.S. Mid-August to mid-September is the best time to establish a new lawn from seed in most parts of the northern part of the country. According to turfgrass spe-cialists at Michigan State Univer-
sity, the weather then is usually favorable for planting and growth 
of young grass plants, and they have time to get well-established before winter. In the spring, on the other hand, wet weather may hold up planting so that the seedlings are 
still struggling to get established when the hot, dry summer 
weather hits. Also, spring and summer rains are often thun-derstorms that may wash out seedlings and erode the soil. Competition from broadleafed 
weeds is also stiffer in the spring, notes Ken Payne, professor of crop and soil sciences at MSU. "Sodding can be done almost anytime," Payne adds. "If you sod in the heat of the summer, of course, you have to be ready to water daily until the sod is estab-
lished." Preparations Preparing the site is essentially the same for either seed or sod. The first step is to take a soil sample. While you are waiting for the results, make sure the lawn is cleared of stones, stumps, trash 
and other debris, and control 
perennial grassy and broadleaf weeds. If changing the grade or con-tours of the lawn is involved, remove any desirable topsoil and stockpile it nearby, Payne sug-
gests, so it doesn't get buried. Reasons for grading the site may include improving water 
drainage away from buildings, 
eliminating low spots where water stands or steep slopes that are difficult to mow, and adding 
contour and interest to the site. Maintain the original soil level around trees and avoid damaging the roots during grading, Payne 
says. Spread stockpiled topsoil back onto the site to a depth of six inches or more. Import topsoil as necessary to achieve that depth. Let the topsoil settle for a while before establishing the final grade. Apply fertilizer according to the soil test results, then rake and level the topsoil to remove depressions and high spots. The final grade should be at least one inch below the level of sidewalks 
and paved driveways. Seeding Once you have a firm seedbed with a loose, granular surface, divide your seed into two equal amounts and apply it with a spreader. Apply half of the seed in one direction and half at right angles to that for an even distribu-Lawn seed awaiting purchase in a ware-house tion. If using a drop-spreader, be careful to overlap slightly; if using 
a rotary spreader, avoid seeding during windy conditions. Gently rake the seed into the top V4-inch of soil, but don't bury 
it, Payne says. Then water it in. Leave instructions for the cus-
tomer to water the new lawn 
dailyŠmore than once a day, if necessary, to keep the seedbed moistŠuntil the grass plants are well-established. (Seedlings are well-established when they are one to two inches tall.) Hold off mowing for the first time until the grass is two to three inches tall. Remember, if you can get that new lawn established in the fall, it 
will probably save you plenty of worries and heartachesŠand complaintsŠwhen next spring rolls around. [M] tr > $ Z n > 73 m Z a c C/5 H 73 *< CO m 73 H m DD m 
73 Introducing something no John Deere mower could do until now. J v v ... . Ł --J > Vs . Ł Ł Ł r ' Ž f- «< v , '*/ " Ł . ¿g y ' 1* .. Imagine winding, narrow berms. Steep embank-ments. Overgrown sidehills. Tree-lined fairways. Now imagine a self-propelled mower designed specifically to help you tackle them. That's the new commercial walk-behind mower line from John Deere. All four of these new John Deere mowers are made to get around in small spaces or large open areas and work on grades to 25? With a low sil-houette deck that lets you mow under trees and shrubs. Power to each wheel is individ-ually controlled to give you nearly zero-radius turns. And when you order the optional sulky attachment, you can turn your walk-behind mower into a comfortable, highly maneuverable riding mower, making a very versatile mower even more versatile. John Deere's new walk-behind mower line comes in 32-, 36-, 48- and 52-inch models. All built to deliver years of dependable service. And of course, backed with traditional John Deere dealer service. For the name of the nearest dealer, or a free folder on the John Deere walk-behind line, call 800-447-9126 toll free (1-800-322-6796 in Illinois) or write John Deere, Dept. 51, Moline, Illinois 61265. Look into one of these new John Deere walk-be-hind mowers. It may be just the answer for your tough mowing jobs. Nothing Runs Like a Deere FROM PAGE ONE The liquid vs. dry battle rages on from page 1 lawns. We feel that dry granular is a lot better in warm weather, too. With liquid fertilizer, the action of the sun in warm weather can destroy the turfgrass plant," he 
surmises. Not many LCOs depend strictly on liquid or granular applications, 
but most have a strong base of one 
or the other. "I know of very fewŠif anyŠ people who are totally dry," admits Jim Sackett of Ever-Green, 
Troy, Ohio. "Most of the dry peo-ple are using dry fertilizer and liq-uid weed control, which gives you the best of both worlds. "Personally, we find dry to be much more flexible. But you can't make the same amount of profit 
from it, per man, as you can with liquid." Adds Vince Flecker of Shur-Spray, Indianapolis, Ind.: "We use dry in the fall sometimes, but 
we're mostly liquid and are not 
considering changing. Why? For the simple reason that you have to go over the lawn twice with gran-ular applications. "We were dry once, but you have to double the manpower. 
Now, using liquid, we feel our 
lawns look as good as anyone 
else's." Ernest Perushak of Mr. Green Lawn Spraying, Westland, Mich, 
gave granular a look-see in 1983. "Some dry fertilizers are good," he says, "but I thought I'd see bet-
ter results than I did. Because more of the public is interested in 
dry fertilizer, I make it available, but only if it's requested." Part of the problem with dry fertilizer is in the perception of the service by homeowners. "When customers see a guy out there with a drop-spreader, the 
temptation is for them to think 
that they can do it themselves," 
observes Ronald Decker of Lawn Care Associates, Eau Claire, Wise. 
"Applying liquid looks more impressive, and it's not something 
the homeowner can do easily." A combination? Fred Haskett of Greenworld, New Philadelphia, Ohio, believes in both types of materials. "We found that by combining applications we get a lot better root stimulation," Haskett says. "We are very satisfied with using both products. We've achieved reduction of thatch accumulation and better long-term color. Essen-tially, our prime granular product is IBDU, and as the slow-release kicks in, we maintain better color. "We're just not going to trap our-selves into one kind of application. Plus, using both has marketing 
advantages. The customer sees both going down, and knows he's getting 
both. It's perceived as doing more." Insecticides Haskett claims that herbicides and fungicides work better in a liquid formulation. There is apparently no difference in efficacy of some liquid or dry insecticides, according to Dr. 
Harry Niemczyk of the Ohio Agri-cultural Research and Develop-ment Center, Wooster, Ohio. "I think I'm going to wait until I see more numbers (further research)," says Niemczyk. "In the first few days following 
application of a liquid like Tri-umph, you'll see a quicker control of grubs. But in October, there's not a nickel's worth of difference, as far as I've been able to tell, 
between liquids and granulars." Survey notes According to LAWN CARE INDUSTRY'S most recent survey, 50 percent of all chemical lawn care companies purchase liquid fertilizer, including some of the largest chains. On the other hand, 
93.3 percent purchase granular fertilizer. LCI readers planned to buy $81.4 million worth of gran-ular fertilizer and an additional $39.6 million of liquid fertilizer, which is less expensive per square foot, in 1984. ŠJerry Roche @S Before you buy any other machine that fertilizes, seeds, coreaerates and spikes, REÄDTHISAD! Now there are three tough machines built to handle the grueling punishment dished out by today's lawn professional! If you need a machine to perform the functions of seeding, fertilizing, coreaerating and spiking, we offer three great solutions: the Lawn Maker, and two models of coreaerators! There's just not enough room in this ad to tell you the whole story, but here are a few facts: 5T E* 711 L 1 Ł ŁŁŁŁŁŁŁŁŁŁŁŁi HoiHTv 4 LAWN MAKER. The all-in-one seeder/fertilizer/core-aerator for riding operation. Welded construction/Weight, 625 lbsJSeeds, fertilizers and aerates 4,000 sq. ft In only 9 minutes/11 hp Briggs & Stratton electric start motor/Easy to transport/Varie ty of attachments/1 year warranty. NEW! WALK BEHIND C0REAERAT0R. Tough, powerful unit for the lawn care professional. Self propelled/36 inch unit with 5 1/2 inch spaclngs/30 inch unit with 4 1/2-inch spacings/6 tines, 2 3/4-inch penetra 
tion/Weight under 300 lbsj5 hp. Briggs & Stratton motor 
with 6-to-l gear reduction, IC motor available/Rear Wheel drive/Covers 30,000 square feet an hour. 4 LOADING RAMPS. 35 lbs. apiece/Steel/Will hold more than 2,000 lbs./$225 a set. To find out more about how you can turn a greater profit in seeding and aeration, call us collect today - 203-621-6764. SALSCO Dealerships stiii available Welding & Fabrication, Inc. 196 Clark Street, Milldale, CT 06467 INSIDE THE INDUSTRY A new computer for your lawn care business: Bargain or bomb? By Sally Kujawa KEI Enterprises It's almost axiomatic. In any talk about computers, two questions 
will be asked: "When is my busi-ness big enough for a computer?" 
and "What kind of computer 
should I buy?" A year or so ago, the answer to the first question involved factors that each lawn care or landscape management business had to ana-
lyze individually: personnel and cost. In other words, had the busi-ness reached the point where new 
office help was needed, and the investment be justified? Usually, a business that had reached the point of adding more office personnel could justify the expense of a computer, since the purchase and use of a computer 
generally increased efficiency to 
the point that more personnel was unnecessary. While this logic still holds true today, the plummeting cost of 
computers, the increased capabil-ities, and ease of use have com-
bined to make computer systems 
an integral part of any business, no matter how small. Unfortunately, there is no par-ticular kind of computer you should consider buying. If so, there would be only one computer on the market, and it would serve everyone's needs. Looking to "brand names" in the computer industry is not the 
answer either, since most major manufacturers produce a myriad of models and types, all in dif-ferent sizes and price ranges. The best way to choose your system is to follow certain stan-dard guidelines. Like any other 
purchase, these guidelines revolve around specific needs, High-tech doesn't mean high-wreck By Dennis Mahaffey Carso Computing Do you need a computer? Do you have at least $100,000 gross business? Do you have 500-600 accounts? These are all questions you should ask 
yourself before buying a computer system. Computers can manage thousands of accounts, they can do your day-to-day accounting activities, they can help you make a profit in the highly compet-itive lawn care business. Computers can also become a nightmare if they don't do what they are supposed to do. Basically, in the past, some LCOs have gone to their local computer store and purchased a 64k RAM 
computer with a couple of floppy disk drivesŠand, 
presto, they're in the high tech lawn care business, right? Well, it simply doesn't work that way. The 64k computer with floppy disk drives was not big enough to help. No LCO should even buy a floppy disk com-
puter. Available software for those units were devel-
oped by programmers who only knew that lawns were green in color. Times have changed, and the lawn care industry has discovered that computers can work for it, not against it. Selecting the proper software is the first step in purchasing any computer system. And lawn care industry software should first be designed to begin where the business begins: the sales leads. It should be able to search your records to see if time has ever been spent giving someone a free estimate or, worse, if that person has not paid his bill from years past. Once you learn a person is a bona fide prospect, a routing system to help find the person would save money in fuel and wear on vehicles. It would also aid company employees in finding the customer, which means employees could be more productive, again 
providing all-important savings. After the salesman calculates the estimate and provides a copy to the customer, your computer should be able to keep track of it, so friendly reminders of that estimate can be mailed in the 
future. This is also a means of recording all custom-
ers and prospective customers who have come in contact with your business to avoid duplication of effort. Once the customer approves the estimate, the computer should then print an invoice, based on to page 26 TOOLS, TIPS, TECHNIQUES Computer software Here are some companies with computer soft-ware designed for the green industries: Ł ADS Software, P.O. Box 13686, Roanoke, VA, 24036 Ł Ball Technical Services, 211 North First St., Mount Vernon, WA, 98273 Ł Cado Computer System, 11315 Read Hartman High-way, Suite 118, Cincinnati, OH, 45241 Ł Condor Computing Inc., 908 Memorial Parkway NW, Suite C, Huntsville, AL, 35801 Ł Creative Maintenance Systems, P.O. Box 41226, Jack-sonville, FL, 32203 Ł Distribution Management Systems, 6910 Pacific St., Suite 305, Omaha, NE, 68106 Ł Femrite, 13193 Arndt Rd. NE, Aurora, OR, 97002 Ł H & H Sun Co., 1322 Waverly, Grand Haven, MI, 49417 
Ł Landscape Electronics, 9 North May St., Joliet, IL, 60435 Ł Landscape Management Systems, P.O. Box 140, Brent-wood, TN, 37027 Ł Maxthink, 230 Crocker Ave., Piedmont, CA, 94610 Ł Practical Solutions, 100 E. Wilson Bridge Rd., Suite 212, Columbus. OH, 43085 ŁRainbow Systems, Somerset, NJ Ł The Green Scene, 5842 Tampa Ave., Tarzana, CA, 91356 Ł Thornton Landscaping, 510 East US 22, Maineville, OH, 45039 quality and priceŠall of which are interrelated. Of the three, the most impor-tant is specific needs. A computer is not really a com-puter, it is a system: hardware (those physical things you can touch) and software (a program, or set of written instructions, which tell the hardware what to do) working together. Without soft-
ware, hardware is just thatŠ hardwareŠwhich will simply sit and gather dust. And if you get the wrong software, the programs 
won't do what you want them to 
do. General needs You must first determine your needs in order to select the soft-ware...in order to select the hard-ware. Start defining your needs by writing them down. Remember that, basically, computers do two 
things: (1) they provide manage-ment with a tool; and (2) they crunch numbers. Your office is a 
good place to start, since it has a lot of numbers to crunch. It's also 
where a computer has the greatest 
impact. Are you losing money because bills don't go out on time? Do you have a way to track past-due accounts? Are there calculation errors? If the answers are "yes," 
you need an accounts receivable 
program. Now look at your other office systems in the same manner, remembering to get input from 
the people who are responsible for this work, since they know where your present logjams or deficien-cies occur. Chances are that, if you need one program, you could need them all: accounts payable, 
payroll and general ledger. Specific needs Once a broad list of these gen-eral needs has been prepared, make another list for each area, becoming more specific. The accounts receivable list, for example, could detail a need 
for specific aging, such as 30-60-90 or 15-30-45; flagging of accounts who have not paid dur-ing a specific period; average days past due of accounts; need 
for various customer discounts; 
coding of customers for credit limits or COD-only flags; and the ability to generate invoices as well as statements. Try to remember that all office procedures are integrated to some 
extent (for instance, all entries 
must be updated to a general ledger), and analysis of payables and receivables will give you the information for a projected cash to page 21 n > Z n > pa m Z a c <*> Š3 pa C/5 m H m DO m pa CD 00 OC EŠ c/3 D Q Z w « < u z £ < Computers No escaping eyes of small businessmen The booming impact of computers is not escaping the eye of many small lawn care businesses. "We got into it mainly out of necessity," says Stu Ramsay, pres-ident of Lawn Doctor of 
Cleveland/South Suburbs. "Because of the high volume and 
number of customers, the paper 
processing being done manually was just too inefficient. We became the first Lawn Doctor dealer in the country to go com-
puter five years ago. Now there are 45 of us." For a $25,000 installation fee, the computer programs were developed and designed specifi-
cally for the lawn care business. "The computer does so many things for us that it's astounding," 
Ramsay says. Stu Ramsay points out features of his computer Although Ramsay notes that he has just dented its potential, his computer system carries four pages, or screens of data, on each customer. "It does all of our truck routing, inventory control, financial state-ments, financial projections, all account statuses, sales invoicing, and it handles all marketing let-ters and potential customer sta-
tuses," Ramsay contends. Included in this list of growing computer capabilities is the con-
cept of updating and scheduling customer service. On each cus-tomer's file, it explains when and what was done to the lawn and 
when additional service is needed. "With this system, we can ser-vice our customers more effi-ciently, on time, with fewer errors and keep better track of the pro-
gress of their lawn," Ramsay con-tinues. "If a problem develops, we 
can take care of it right away." It wasn't always this smooth, however. Like many operations 
initially being introduced to com-
puters, Ramsay expected mira-
cles. "When we brought the com-puter back to the company, I expected my staff to start putting 
out reports right away. I didn't realize it just wasn't that simple," 
Ramsay remembers. "So I sent the whole staff, including myself, back to school for 10 weeks to learn more about operating a sys-tem." The decision paid offŠin a big way. "In sales, we made at least $10,000 additional dollars the first year alone," says Ramsay, "and in annual cost savings, we paid for the system within the first two years because of savings in labor costs." The potential exists today for further modernization. "We haven't even scratched the surface yet. Our operation will be upgraded to do more, and by more people, when we get addi-tional terminals installed." Like many smaller businesses are discovering, computers are becoming more than just an eco-nomic advantage. "I believe that, within five to seven years, a small business will not be able to keep up without 
using computers in some way," Ramsay concludes. "They'll find 
they just can't afford not to." ® M. Circle No. 119 on Reader Inquiry Card UNBEATABLE CUT, UNBEATABLE PRICE INTRODUCING THE LOCKE PROFESSIONAL. Locke, the name that revolutionized the home land-scape industry with the technologically revered triplex reel mowers, is making news again! Introducing the new Professional. The first Locke mower designed especially for large grounds where a precision cut is mandatory, like golf courses, play-ing fields and other fine grounds. THE FIRST REEL MOWER WITH A REAL DIFFERENCE. Up until now, the only way to get a superior, high-quality cut was to buy an expensive hydraulic reel mower. The Locke Professional has changed this. The Professional has a proven mechanical cut-ting system that delivers a great looking turf that is sure to meet the standards of even the most dis-
criminating golf course superintendents. // I I \ \ \ \ Incredibly, the Professional delivers this unbeat-able cut at an unbeatable price. With the Profes-sional, you can save thousands of dollars versus the cost of hydraulic reel mowers. BUILT STRONG FROM THE INSIDE OUT. One look at the Locke Professional and you know it 
was built with extraordinary quality...engineered for reliability and durability. The Professional offers a broad range of features designed to give you maximum performance: %-2% 
inch cutting height, up to 87 inch cutting width, grass catchers and micro-reel adjustments. Features that will help you cover more ground in less time. If you're considering a new mower, discover the reel mower with a real difference. Discover the Locke Professional and get an unbeatable cut at an unbeatable price. Contact Locke for your local authorized dealer, today, alt (203) 333-3157, 1100 Boston Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06610 Buying a computer: bargain or bomb? from page 20 flow. Therefore, when looking for the software programs that will fit 
your needs, look for those that 
areŠor can beŠintegrated. Once your office systems have been analyzed and those needs defined, look at your management 
needs the same way. A great benefit of computers is their ability to rearrange the facts stored in their memories. With the spreadsheet software avail-able today, it is a simple process to 
analyze sales, profit centers, cash flow, customers, vendors and almost anything else you choose. Again, try to address the needs of others in your company, as well as 
your own. And be as specific as 
possible. You have now done several things: you've set the parameters 
for the software you need (or want), which will pretty well 
determine the size of the machine (hardware) you will need, which 
will Š of course Š determine the PC (personal computer), which falls somewhere between 
the home computer and the micro. The PC is specifically aimed at small business. Within the past year, all of this has been complicated by the fact thatŠwhile computing power and storage have gone upŠprices have come down, so that distinc-
tions are being blurred. One thing hasn't changed, however. You still get what you pay for. A personal computer, no mat-ter how powerful, will not do 
what a micro-computer will do, nor will a micro do what a mini will. (A tandem and a pick-up are both trucks. Both haul. Neither is a substitute for the other.) If you understand this and adjust your software needs (com-promise) and your budget (usu-
ally upwards), you should be able to find a system that suits you. Quality and price are equally important. Ł The software should be well documented, with easy-to-follow 
instructions. It should be backed up by some type of training, and duplicate copies of the software 
programs should be available at little or no cost. Ł The hardware should be well-built with an easy-to-read screen and little or no glare. Ł The keyboard should be of the standard typewriter arrange-ment, with specific function keys 
well-marked and easy to reach. A numeric keypad makes numbers 
easier to enter. Ł The system should be expan-dable, meaning you can add more 
external memory, screens, printers and programs, as well as upgraded programs. This simply means that, as improvements are made in the system by the man-to page 26 CD m T3 H 
m DD m 
PO Excellent Overall Performance price. Read up Thus prepared, list in hand, you are now ready to enter the world of computers in earnest. Or are you? Not really. While it's not necessary to be a computer "expert," it's necessary to be familiar with the more common terms and definitions associated 
with computers. Computers are not like stereo systems, which may utilize a vari-ety of different components from many manufacturers and still play any record. Stereos are stan-dardized; computers are not. In order to make an intelligent purchase, it's necessary to under-
stand how software and hardware interact to become the system; what software can and cannot do; 
what hardware can and cannot do; and what even the two together 
can and cannot do. Many excellent books and mag-azines aimed specifically at begin-ners are available. They are written in clear, concise, easy to understand terms, and two or three evenings of reading will give you the necessary back-
ground. Magazines, especially, provide a wealth of information, with the added advantage of being as current as presstime. A compromise? Buying a computer might require a compromise. Your soft-ware needs may indicate a $10,000 system, while your budget dic-tates a $1,000 personal computer. The distinction between "sizes" of computers is changing rapidly. First there were only main-frames, costing hundreds of thou-sands of dollars. Next came the mini-computers, generally in the $30,000-50,000 range. Bom a short time later were micro-computers, costing still less; and the "home" 
computers, costing anywhere from $200 to $1,500. The latest, and most familiar, is Circle No. 107 on Reader Inquiry Card Ł *PVP 8200167 Jaguar takes care of itself. It needs less feeding and thrives in hot weather and drought with limited watering. Jaguar takes traffic because it forms a dense, deeply-rooted persistent turf. Jaguar resists diseases (Rhizoctonia brown patch, in particular) and tolerates shady, low light areas. Jaguar needs less mowing. It is lower growing and more tolerant of close cutting. Jaguar has a leafier, finer texture and beautiful dark green color. To find out more aboutJaguar Turf-Type Tall Fescue contact the distributor nearest you or circle the number below on the card in back. Garfield Williamson. Inc. Jersey Citv, NJ 07306 201-435-3500 By rum .Seed Co. Charlotte. NC 28224 704-527-0481 Manglesdorf Seed Co. St. Louis. MO 63166 314-535-6700 Geo. W. Hill Seed Co. Florence. KY41042 606-371-8423 Wetsel Seed Co. Harnsburg. VA 22801 703-434-6753 Germains, Inc. Fresno, CA 93777 209-233-8823 [JOS Angeles, CA 90051 213-589-6331 TACI JA R ^ TURF-TYPE TALL FESC U E Premiums too high? Check a partial self-insurance program Insurance: you can't live with it, and you can't live without it. But now, if you're unhappy with your company's current cost of group insurance, there is an alternative which promisesŠin most casesŠlower annual costs. "Partial self-insurance" was introduced in California 15 years ago. Since, it has spread. "Becoming self-insured is a way of increasing benefits to your 
workers, and at the same time reducing costs," says one Ohio small businessman. "The eco-nomics are persuasive: it's a no-
lose deal." How can this be possible? LAWN CARE INDUSTRY went to 
Chris Hutchinson of Self Funding 
Administrators Corp., Annapolis, Md., to find out. "We handle all the functions of an insurance company," Hutchin-son says, "but we don't have the big overhead of a major insurer. We don't have the big buildings, and we're more cost-conscious. Generally, the cost of our admini-stration is 20 to 25 percent cheaper than an insurance company." Self Funding Administrators is one of many third-party admin-istrators (TPAs) across the coun-
try which work with companies employing 50 or more. Basically, here is how a TPA works: A small businessman takes the money he had been paying in 
insurance premiums and puts it in a trust fund, usually a money mar-ket (or similar) account. The TPA handles the account, does the paperwork (government report forms, employee identification cards, employee booklets, etc.), disburses claims to doctors and hospitals, and reports claims to 
the employer. To protect the trust 
fund, some TPAs set up the neces-
sary "stop-loss" insurance pol-
icies for clients. "With a relatively small group, you have to have two kinds of 
stop-loss insurance," Hutchinson says, "Specific stop-loss and 
Aggregate stop-loss." Specific stop-loss insurance will reimburse the trust fund for 
individual claims over a specific 
amount. Aggregate stop-loss insurance will reimburse for the 
total group claims over a given annual amount. "If everybody 
guesses wrong, the insurance 
company will pay 100 percentŠ 
and this insurance is relatively inexpensive," Hutchinson says. He contends that admin-istrative fees for a TPA, plus 
the money put 
aside for the claims, plus the 
claims them-selves will pro-
bably amount to 15 to 25 per- Hutchinson cent less than your current insurance pre-miums, if you're working through a major insurer. Savings will be realized in four ways: Ł Administrative costs are less. Ł There are no taxes paid on claims through self-insurance while there is a premium taxŠ usually around two percentŠon minimum paid to major insurers. These taxes are passed back to the insured company through increased premiums. Ł Cost containment features can be included in the benefit plan to reduce the employer's outlay 
while still providing quality health care. Ł There will be a 20 to 30 per-cent reserve at the end of the fiscal year which will draw interest. 
"Eventually, interest on the reserves can equal the reserve," 
Hutchinson says. "We make sure 
the company is putting enough in 
the account to assure that." There are two problems with trying to sell this type of insur-
ance, Hutchinson notes. One, peo-ple don't think they'll get the 
service of a major insurance com-
pany. And two, the concept seems too good to be true. "Actually, we're actually closer to our clients than regular insurance companies," he responds. "We have just 275 cli-
ents, so we can provide better ser-vice." For more information on third-party administrators, contact Hutchinson directly. Self Funding 
Administrators Inc. is located at 
Suite 102, 130 Holiday Court, Annapolis, MD, 21401. Phone number is (301) 266-6663. ŠJerry Roche 1® Tuflex offers you four large model Tanks to solve your BIG pest control problems. The experts at Tuflex care-fully research and analyze your needs and assist you in designing and engineering the right tank and pump system for your job requirements. Anything less would be a compromise solution. « Ł Tuflex is the only manufacturer to specialize in seam less fiberglass spray tanks built specifically for the pest control and lawn care industry. The exclusive Tuflex process allows a full five-year warranty on all hand-crafted seamless fiberglass tanks. Our tanks from 100 gallon to 1200 gallon are ready to solve your toughest challenges. Model PC-500 Model PC-500:545 gallon portalble use tank. 81" long. 47V* " wide and 48" high. Standard equipment: 18" vented cover with posi-lock hatch hard-ware. baffling system, integral molded mounting base for ease in mounting, steel tie down lugs to secure tank to frame. 2" polycoated drain and cali-
brated sight tubes. Model U-600 75' Model U-600:580 gallon portable use tank, long. 55" wide and 50" high. Standard equipment: 18" vented cover with posi-lock hatch hardware, molded runners for ease in mounting to frame. 2" polycoated drain and calibrated sight tubes. Model PC-800 Model PC-800:860 gallon portable use tank. 80" long. 60" wide and 58" high. Standard equipment: 18" vented cover with posi-lock hatch hardware, baffling system, integral molded mounting base for ease in mounting, steel tie down lugs to secure tank to frame. 2" polycoated drain and calibrated sight tubes. Model PC-1200 Model PC-1200:1175 gallon portable use tank. 108" long. 60" wide and 53" high. Standard equipment: 18" vented cover with posi-lock hatch hardware, baffling system, integral molded mounting base for ease in mounting, steel tie down lugs to secure tank to frame. 2" polycoated drain and calibrated sight tubes. Call TOLL-FREE for economy prices and more information on our complete line of tanks. 1-800-327-9005 In Honda call collect (305) 785-6402 1406 S.W. 8th St. r MANUFACTURING CO. Pompano Beach. FL 33060 Available options for above Tanks: Ł Exclusive double seal internal hatch (prevents hatch leakage) Ł Mechanical or jet agitation systems Ł Splitting or compartmentalizing 
Ł Pump and engine canopies DATES 
DATES September Michigan Turfgrass Foundation Field Day and Trade Snow, Sept. 6, Hancock Turfgrass Research Center, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI. Contact: Dr. A.J. Turgeon, Michigan Turfgrass Founda-
tion, Box 275, Okemos, MI, 48864. 
Ohio Turfgrass Field Day, Sept. 11, Ohio 
State University Turfgrass Field Plots, Columbus, OH. Contact: Karl Dan-neberger, Dept. of Agronomy, OSU, 
Columbus, OH, 43210. (614) 422-2001. Garden Industry of America Conference and Trade Show, Sept. 11-13, Indiana Con-vention Center, Indianapolis, IN. Contact: 
Paul Anderson, GIA, Box 1092, Min-neapolis, MN, 55440. (612) 374-5200. 
Alabama Turfgrass Association Annual Conference, Sept. 13-14, Auburn (AL) Con-ference Center. Contact: Dr. Kim Sheffer, Extension Hall, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849. (205) 826-4985. ALCA Maintenance Technicians Short 
Course, Sept. 15, St. Louis, MO. Contact: ALCA, 405 N. Washington St., Falls Church, VA, 22046. (703) 241-4004. World Fertilizer Conference, Sept. 16-18, Hyatt Regency San Francisco. Contact: 
Mary Pat Luday, The Fertilizer Institute, 1015 Eighteenth St. NW, Washington, DC, 20036. (202)861-4900. Virginia Turfgrass Research Field Days, Sept. 18-20, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA. 
Contact: Dr. J.R. Hall III, Agronomy Depart-ment, VPI-SU, Blacksburg, VA, 24061. (703) 961-5797. ALCA Landscape Supervisors Training Workshop, Sept. 19-20, Holiday Inn/Air-port, San Francisco, CA. Contact: ALCA, 405 N. Washington St., Falls Church, VA, 22046. (703)241-4004. 
Northwest Turfgrass Conference, Sept. 25-27, Northshore Motor Inn, Coeur 
d'Alene, ID. Contact: Dr. Roy L. Goss, West Washington Research and Extension Cen-ter, Puyallup, WA, 98371. (206) 593-8513. 
International Pesticide Applicators Asso-ciation Convention and Trade Show, Sept. 27-28, Best Western Executive Inn, Tac-oma, WA. Contact: Peter Tovoli, 4202 11th 
St NW, Puyallup, WA, 98371. Florida Turf-Grass Association Con-ference and Show, Sept. 30-0ct. 3, Curtis 
Hixon Convention Center, Tampa, FL. Contact: Ruth P. Shepherd, 1520 Edge-water Dr., Suite E, Orlando, FL, 32804. 
(305)425-1581. October Bedding Plants Inc. Conference, Oct. 7-13, 
Virginia Beach, VA. Contact: Dr. Richard Lindstrom, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, (703) 961-6723; or Charles Elstrodt, Sierra Chemical Co., (804) 425-5739. Professional Grounds Management Society Conference and Trade Show, Oct. 8-9, Marriott Hotel, Worcester, MA. Con-tact: Kevin Lyons, PGMS New England 
Branch, College of the Holy Cross, Wor-cester, MA, 01610. ALCA Maintenance Technicians Short Course, Oct. 13, Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Con-tact: ALCA, 405 N. Washington St., Falls Church, VA, 22046. (703) 241-4004. PLCAA convention & trade show Nov. 12-15 Tampa, Fla. See and hear former astronaut James Lovell talk about "Suc-cessful Failures," hear a bevy of educational talks and pan-els, see all the new advances in 
equipment on the trade show floor. For more information: PLCAA 1225 Johnson Ferry Road Suite B-220 Marietta, GA, 30007 (404) 977-5222 National Institute on Park and Grounds Management Conference, Oct. 28-Nov. 1, 
Denver (CO) Regency Inn. Contact: 
NIPGM, Box 1936, Appleton, WI, 54913. 
(414) 733-2301. ALCA Landscape Management Con-ference, Oct. 29-31, Colony Square Hotel, Atlanta, GA. Contact: ALCA, 405 N. Wash-ington St., Falls Church, VA, 22046. (703) 241-4004. Commercial Grounds Maintenance Short 
Course, Oct. 30-31, Stone Mountain (GA) State Park. Contact: Gilbert Landry Jr., University of Georgia, College of Agri-
culture, Athens, GA, 30602. (404) 542-5350. November Missouri Valley Lawn & Turf Conference, Nov. 5-7, Marriott Pavilion Hotel, St. Louis, MO. Contact: Terry Turner, UMC Office of 
Conferences, 344 Hearnes Building, 
Columbia, MO, 65211. (314)882-4349. New York State Turfgrass Association Conference and Trade Show, Nov. 7-9, Syracuse, NY. Contact: Ann Reilly, NYSTA, 210 Cartwright Blvd., Massapequa 
Park, NY, 11762. Garden Industry of America/West, Nov. 8-9, Anaheim (CA) Convention Center. 
Contact: Paul Anderson, GIA/West, Box 
1092, Minneapolis, MN, 55440. (612) 374-5200. California Landscape Contractors Asso-ciation Annual Convention, Nov. 8-11, Ixatalpa, Mexico. Contact: Bob 
Gouley, 2226 K St., Sacramento, CA, 95816. 
(916) 448-2522. Professional Lawn Care Association of 
America Conference and Trade Show, Nov. 12-15, Curtis Hixon Hall, Tampa, FL. Contact: Jim Brooks, PLCAA, 1225 Johnson Ferry Rd., Suite B-220, Marietta, GA, 
30007. (404) 977-5222. Later Ohio Turfgrass Foundation Conference 
and Show, Dec. 3-6, Columbus, OH. Con-tact: Dr. John Street, Ohio Turfgrass Foun-
dation, 2021 Coffey Rd.. Columbus, OH. 43210. (614)422-2601. Landscape Design Short Course, Dec. 10-12, OARDC, Wooster, OH. Contact: Fred K. Buscher, OARDC, Wooster, OH, 44691. (216)263-3831. Pennsylvania Turfgrass Conference and Trade Show, Dec. 17-20, Hershey (PA) Lodge and Convention Center. Contact: 
Christine King, 412 Blanchard St., Belle-fonte, PA, 16823. (814) 355-8010. Associated Landscape Contractors of 
America Convention and Trade Show, Jan. 20-24, 1985, Kona Surf Resort, Kailua-
Kona, HI. Contact: ALCA. 405 N. Wash-ington St., Falls Church, VA, 22046. (703) 241-4004. > z n > 50 m Z a 
c C/3 H 50 in m H m oo m 50 S 00 LCO Data System Our LCO data system is a comprehensive lawn care system, programmed to assist you with: Ł Sales Leads Ł Routing Ł Inventory Control Ł Invoicing Ł Payroll Ł Accounting Ł Service Calls Ł and much more A computer lawn system developed by Lawn-Care Professionals for the LCO. "Tr ARSO OMPUTING P.O. Box 143, South Vine Camargo, Illinois 61919 Call Collect (217) 832-2711 SAI KS-SOKTW A K K l)IA IIOPMKM Circle No. 102 on Reader Inquiry Card Keep Fertilizer Dry and Prevent Costly Spills with the 'SHOWER CAP" by Lawn Tech Ł Durable, see-thru vinyl cover fits most professional quality spreaders Ł Completely waterproof and spillproof Ł Easy to attach Š just slip it onto spreader Ł Secure fit prevents spills Š avoids burnout and product loss Ł Simple, 1-piece construction Ł Folds up for convenient storage Ł Limited 1-year warranty Call or write: (216) 937-5517 Pat. pending Our covers fit the following Scott s R7X Lesco Bicon Cyclone Spyker Lily Must specify make & model when ordering Circle No. 116 on Reader Inquiry Card J^njn. t p Box 206 Avon Lake'°-FYLKING FYLKING FYLKING FYLKING 44012 FYLKING Remember the name because you're going to hear a lot about it. Fylking Kentucky bluegrass lawn is something special. It forms a dense, thick turf, more disease and drought resistant. Greens up earlier, stays greener longer. Fylking can be cut as low as %«inch, even Vfe inch for home putting greens. Proven over many years of international certified testing. Ask your seed distributor for Fylking. Fylking Š the World's Fair grass FYLKING m KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS U.S. Plant Patent 2887 Another fine, quality-controlled product of Jacklin Seed Company. I Circle No. 111 on Reader Inquiry Card NEWSMAKERS OC w m S 
w 
H 
CL 
U 
C/3 OC H c/3 D Q Z w oc < u z £ < \ _ / H V- w I I A/ Rao Rathgens Dr. Balakrishna Rao has been named director of lawn care tech-
nical resources for the Davey Tree 
Expert Co., Kent, Ohio. Dr. Rao, 
who received his PhD from Ohio State in plant pathology, has been with Davey since 1977. Davey has also appointed Richard G. Rathgens senior agronomist. Rathgens has a mas-ter's in turfgrass management 
from Cook College, Rutgers Uni-versity. He has been with Davey as an agronomist since 1977. Greg Richards has been named product manager of turf chemi-
cals for Lesco, Inc. He replaces Joe 
Winland, who has been named vice-president of commercial 
sales for Tru-Green Corp. 
Winland will be based in Atlanta. Richards had previously been based in Landover, Md., where he sold Lesco products to lawn care 
companies. Vanessa Jensen will 
assume some of Richards' duties. The Professional Grounds Management Society has given its 1984 scholarship award to Michele Ann Rabey, a student at the Sandhills Community College in Southern Pines, N.C. Rabey's major is landscape gardening. Thomas P. Stoeser has been named financial manager of Jack-lin Seed Co. Stoeser, an alumnus of Gonzaga University, accepted BOOKSTORE Instructional and technical material designed to aid you in your work. 625 - ADVANCES IN TURFGRASS ENTOMOLOGY $24.95 010 - ADVANCES IN TURFGRASS PATHOLOGY $27.95 665 - ARBORICULTURE: THE CARE OF TREES, SHRUBS AND VINES IN THE LANDSCAPE $34.95 340 - CONSTRUCTION DESIGN FOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS $39.50 345 - COST DATA FOR LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION 1984 $27.50 410 - DISEASES & PESTS OF ORNAMENTAL PLANTS $29.95 660 - DISEASES OF SHADE TREES $23.50 610 - DISEASES OF TURFGRASSES $30.00 800 - THE GOLF COURSE $35.00 350 - HANDBOOK OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURAL CONSTRUCTION $48.50 675 - HILLER'S MANUAL OF TREES & SHRUBS $20.50 510-HORTUS THIRD $125.00 690 - INSECTS THAT FEED ON TREES & SHRUBS $47.50 635 - IRRIGATION PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES $39.95 395 - LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE $34.95 300 - LANDSCAPE DESIGN: A PRACTICAL APPROACH $19.95 370 - LANDSCAPE OPERATIONS: MANAGEMENT, METHODS & MATERIALS $20.95 645 - MANAGEMENT OF TURFGRASS DISEASES $24.95 575 - MODE OF ACTION OF HERBICIDES $54.95 545 - MODERN WEED CONTROL $21.50 700 - THE PRUNING MANUAL $14.95 790 - RECREATION PLANNING AND DESIGN $39.50 380 - RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPING I $22.50 
720 - SHRUB IDENTIFICATION $8.00 750 - TREE IDENTIFICATION $$9.95 760 - TREE MAINTENANCE $35.00 640 - TURF IRRIGATION MANUAL $22.95 
615 - TURF MANAGEMENT FOR GOLF COURSES $45.00 620 - TURF MANAGEMENT HANDBOOK $18.00 110,120 - TURF MANAGERS' HANDBOOK $28.95 hardcover, $23.95 paperback 650 - TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT $21.95 630 - TURFGRASS:SCIENCE & CULTURE $27.95 
655 - TURFGRASS:SCIENCE & CULTURE LABORATORY MANUAL $12.95 565 - WEEDS $37.50 570 - WESTCOTT'S PLANT DISEASE HANDBOOK $36.50 405 - WOODY ORNAMENTALS $27.00 CLOSEOCITS ORDER THESE TITLES AT SPECIAL REDUCED PRICES! 795 - FIRST AID MANUAL FOR CHEMICAL ACCIDENTS $18.25 455 - THE GRAFTER'S HANDBOOK $16 95 460 - GREENHOUSE ENVIRONMENT $21.20 335 - LANDSCAPE DESIGN THAT SAVES ENERGY $8.50 Mail this coupon to: Book Sales Harcourt Brace Jovanovich Publications One East First Street, Duluth, MN 55802 Name Street Address. P.O. Box Number. City/State/Zip _ Signature Phone Number. _Date. Purchase Order Number Please send me the following books. I have enclosed payment* for the total amount. Please charge to my Visa. Master Card or American Express (circle one) Account Number Expiration Date BOOK NUMBER AND TITLE QUANTITY PRICE TOTAL PRICE ŁPlease add $3.00 per order plus $1.00 per additional copy for postage and handling postage & handling Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. Prices subject to change Total Enclosed Quantity rates available on request. LCI 9/84 the position with Jacklin while in the process of establishing his 
own accouting firm. Richard Weintraub, a director of Rational Approach to Pesticides Inc., has been appointed by the governor as the newest member of the Mas-sachusetts Pesticide Board. 
Weintraub is president of termi-nix of Massachusetts and Astor 
Pest Control. Michael Anthony Ray of North Carolina State University has Richards Ray received a TUCO turf schol-arship. Ray is a senior in turf man-
agement. David Minner has been named extension turfgrass specialist at the University of Missouri-
Columbia. The native of Dela-
ware received his PhD from Colo-rado State University. James H. Spencer of E.J. Smith & Sons won an honorary lifetime membership to the Turfgrass 
Council of North Carolina at the 22nd annual conference earlier this year. New officers of the Illinois Landscape Contractors Associa-
tion are: George Koziarz, presi-dent; John Hendricksen, 
executive vice-president; Ken-neth Gallt, vice-president; Jim Bussey, treasurer; Bill Davids, secretary; and Roger Lemke, ser-
geant-at-arms. New directors elected are: Andy Galatte, Gene Rausch, Peter Grathoff, Larry Stu-der and Frank Mariani. Hypro Division of Lear Siegler has announced two staff changes: 
Peter K. Solberg is now vice-presi-
dent for finance and administra-
tion, and Michael Mullaney is 
assistant controller. Solberg has 
been with Hypro for nine years, Mullaney for one. F.D. Kees mas announced the promotions of Mike Schaefer to 
vice-president of sales and Roger 
Meyer to vice-president of engi-
neering. Schaefer had been national sales manager, Meyer chief engineer. Charles R. Gleason III has joined Nor-Am Chemical Co. as a strategic market analyst. Gleason was formerly with DuPont and ICI 
Americas. He will prepare and 
analyze information relating to 
opportunities for the company's 
specialty chemical line. Edwin C. Holmer, president of Exxon Chemical Co., has been elected chairman of the board of the Chemical Manufacturers 
Association, succeding Louis Fer-nandez, president of Monsanto. In 
addition, W.H. Clark of Nalco Chemical was elected vice-chair-man, and George J. Sella Jr. of American Cyanamid was elected chairman of the executive com-mittee. The following were named to CMA board of directors: 
Keith H. Edmondson (Upjohn), Richard J. Mahoney (Monsanto), Charles E. Stewart (Diamond Shamrock) and Otto Sturzenegger (Ciba-Geigy). Jerome W. Eisele is new vice-president of marketing and meet-
ings for the National Fertilizer 
Solutions Asociation. He has been with the NFSA for five years. Eisele Peterson John A. Peterson has been appointed president of Gilson Brothers by R.E. Blohm, chairman of the board. A native of St. Paul, Minn., Peterson is a graduate of 
the University of Minnesota. Sid Muse, general partner of The Andersons, has been elected to The Fertilizer Institute's 
executive committee. Lawrence W. Bachman has been elected president of the American Association of Nur-
serymen. Bachman is corporate 
secretary and nursery production manager of Bachman's, Min-neapolis, Minn. Rockland Chemical Co. has added two salesmen: Thomas Infanti for New Jersey, metro New York and eastern Pennsylvania; and Dave Martin for eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and 
Virginia. Thomas M. Carter has been 
appointed to the newly-cre-ated position of 
vice-president for marketing services and product plan-ning at Jac-obsen Division of Textron Inc. Carter has been with Jacobsen since 1977. Steve McLaughlin is a new sales and service representative with the Perris, Calif, branch of Warren's Turf Nursery, Crystal Lake, 111. McLaughlin has been with Rancho Verde Sod Farm and 
Plant Control Corp. of Irvine, Calif. Rain Bird Sales has announced the following promotions: Bob Guadagni to director of opera-tions, Mike Ukena to commercial 
product manager; Dave Wheeler 
to eastern regional sales manager; Mike Schierer and Mark Pedicone 
to southern California district Carter managers; Rick Davis to southern California specification manager; Steve Christie to western regional 
sales manager; and Rod Mc-
Whirter to eastern golf specialist. 
The company also announced that Linda Berry, a senior at Cal Poly/Pomona, has won a $2500 first place in the college irrigation design competition. Robert J. Molz has been named assistant director of research and development for the Du Pont 
Company's Agricultural Chemi-cals Department. Dr. Molz joined Du Pont in 1969. He earned degrees from the City College of New York before getting his Ph.D. 
in biochemistry from the New York Medical College. Ingersoll Equipment Co. recently announced thep romo-tion of six managers to corporate 
officers: Gary Backman, vice-president of materials; David Berry, vice-president of credit; Merlyn Curtis, vice-president of engineering; Richard Houle, cor-porate secretary/treasurer; John Stark, vice-president of market-
ing; and William Viczian, vice-
president of manufacturing. Expanding Briggs & Stratton acquires facility Briggs & Stratton Corp. has 
acquired a 250,000 square foot facility in Murray, Ky., to be used 
for lawnmower engine production. The city of Murray gave the plant to Briggs & Stratton. It had not been used since 1980, when the Tappan Co. ended operations 
there and donated it to the city. "We will eventually invest $20 million in the next five years to renovate the plant for engine 
manufacturing," says company 
president Frederick P. Stratton Jr. n > $ Z n > Ï0 m Z o c cn H in m -a H 
m 03 m BUNTON: GET TO KNOW ONE If you've ever been around people who are bragging about their "Bunton", you know how zealous they can be The dependability... the fuel efficiency... the performance... the price... nothing but rave reviews. Bunton builds 108 different mow-ers, each with different features to solve a specific lawn mainte-nance problem. The good news is that all Bunton lawn maintenance equipment is built the same way, whether you need turf tractors, self-propelled mowers, push mowers or edgers/trimmers. Bunton builds specificallyŠand nothing butŠhigh quality lawn and turf mainte-
nance equipment. When you discover Bun-ton, you will understand why these mowers are the professionals' best friend. Get to know one... today. BUNTON Bunton builds 'em better! BUNTON CO. P.O. Box 33247 Louisville, KY 40232 U.S.A. Phone 502/966-0550 Ł Telex 204-340 Contract numbers G S A GS-07S 07659 HUD OPH (CO)m 3650 oc W CQ S M H CU u in > oc H in D a 
z w DC < u z £ < Bargain or bomb? from page 21 ufacturer, they can be added to your system. Quality extends also to intangi-bles. The people you buy from must be knowledgable. They should be able to "fit" you into the right system, to help you prepare for your installation, and be avail-able to you in the future when 
questions or problems arise. Be sure you know where ser-vice will be available for your 
machine in the event of a break-
down, what it will cost, how long 
it will take to repair and if a sub-
stitute will be available. Consider the reputation of the vendor. Computer companies lit-
ter the market today. There are no 
guarantees in business, but a good track record does indicate sta-bility. Ask for and check out refer-ences, both of the vendor and of 
the system you are considering. 
Some very well-known com-panies are exceptionally good at marketing an inferior product. 
Look for more than clever televi-sion or magazine advertisements. The world of computers is changing more rapidly than any-thing else in history. Does that mean that you should wait for the 
latest improvements? Not a chanceŠyou might be waiting forever. Define your needs; do your research; make your compro-
mises, your selection and your purchase. Because the businesses that have learned to use the tools 
of this computer revolution will 
survive and prosper. [W] High tech doesn't mean high-wreck from page 19 whether the customer has kept 
his account current, putting him 
in the correct route and noting the 
amount of time elapsed between 
applications. The applicator rec-
ords the invoice on his production log and the computer prints state-ments for those who have not paid at the time the application was received. This is one of the most impor-tant features of any business com-
puter system, especially when the 
vast majority of your business is 
based on receivables. A computer will track customers who haven't 
paid, add on finance charges and allow you quick access to this 
information so that you bring bet-A complete line of Aerifiers for fairways, athletic fields, industrial, institutional and fine residential lawns . The JR-4 Aerifier: self-propelled, fast and maneuverable ... only 34 inches wide. Cultivates a 20 inch swath to aerify 26,000 sq. ft per hour at an easy 3 mph. TM-140 Aerifier: Easiest, fastest, most maintenance free. Three-point hitch tractor mount, aerifys a 6 foot swath. Transport wheels and hydraulic lift available. AB-1 Aerifier: Fast, deep aerifying 
with minimum hp. towing vehicle. Simple flip-over to wheels for transport. Cultivates a 4 foot swath. Ask about our SPRAY-PRO 44 ... the versatile, multi-use vehicle that converts quickly to a Sprayer, Spreader, Aerifier or Utility Bed For the name of your nearest dealer or more information: CALL TOLL FREE 800/457-HAHN 1625 N. Garvin St., Evansville, In. 47711 Circle No. 109 on Reader Inquiry Card ter managerial skills to your busi-ness. Inventory control can be accomplished by properly designed software. This aspect of a lawn care system is beneficial in checking to see if your applicators are using the proper rate of chemi-cals. Inventory control is another excellent tool for business man-
agement, because you will know more accurately when to order 
more supplies and thus avoid hav-
ing excess inventory. Another time-consuming job is payroll. There are as many ways 
to pay our employees as there are businesses in the industry. There-fore, you should select software 
that will calculate payroll the way 
you currently do it. A computer with the properly selected software can keep payroll records accurately, based on the amount of production applicators do the previous month or simply by keeping track of the number of hours. Is is important that a payroll system be flexible 
enough to calculate payroll based on commission, salary, and/or hourly rate, all with the same soft-
ware. Tracking service calls is also an important requisit of a good com-
puter set-upŠfrom the time the service call comes into the office until the time it is completed. When the calls are completed, the 
computer should have the 
capability of recording what action was taken to provide future reference. After all thisŠsales leads, rout-ing, invoice printing, billing, 
inventory control, payroll, service calls and accountingŠthe prop-erly designed software should be 
able to combine with manage-ment reports. In this way, the LCO can concentrate his efforts on where to place the most emphasis in order to turn a profit. Another very important aspect of any computer system is the 
amount of training and support the vendor is willing to give you. The more, the better. So the modern lawn care com-puter system should contain both the proper hardware and software 
for a comprehensive and inte-
grated system to help control all phases of operations. It should be user-friendly so it can be used as a means to increase profits. And that's always the bottom line. QS] KEE536" HEAVY-DUTY Commercial MOWER Model 3611 OH CHECK THESE PERFORMANCE FEATURES: Ł Powerful 11 h.p. Briggs l/C or Honda synchro-balanced engine Ł Fingertip clutch, brake and power turning control levers on each handle Ł Sleek deck design and drum wheel brakes for positive, close quarter mowing Ł Unique V-flanged front deflectors help prevent damage to yard decorations, monuments, etc. Ł Baffled de-sign for clean and safe grass discharge.« fuel tank. OPTIONS. Riding sulky and large 3-bu. capacity grass catcher. For more information, write F.D. Kees. P.O. Box 1055 Beatrice. Nebraska 68310 Phone (402) 223-2391. Since 1874 F« D. KEES MFG. CO« Beatrice. Nebr.68310 Circle No. 114 on Reader Inquiry Card For rapid response, use the peel-off label from the front cover L4WN GIRE INDUSTI^ SEPTEMBER 1984 This card expires November 15.1984 PLEASE CHECK BELOW YOUR PRIMARY BUSINESS AT THIS LOCATION: A. CONTRACTOR OR SERVICES: Ł Chemical lawn care company Ł Mowing/maintenance lawn care company B. SUPPLIER: Ł Chemical dealer and/or distributor Ł Equipment dealer and/or distributor Ł Seed broker/dealer C. OTHER Please specify: I would like to receive (continue receiving) LAWN CARE INDUSTRY each month: Yes Ł NoD Your Signature: _ Date NO POSTAGE NECESSARY IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES BUSINESS REPLY CARDl FIRST CLASS PERMIT NO. 665 DULUTH, MINNESOTA POSTAGE WILL BE PAID BY ADDRESSEE ^^MHH^mmmhh READER SERVICE DEPARTMENT WWN G1RE INDUSTRY POST OFFICE BOX 6080 DULUTH, MINNESOTA 55806-9780 I.I.IhI.I.I..I.II..HII..I,I,.I...II..I.II I.II PRODUCTS Computer program made for lawn care Distribution Management Sys-tems Inc. (DMSI) of Omaha, Neb. 
recently introduced CLCl, a highly flexible software package designed specifically for the unique requirements of the lawn and tree care industries. CLCl streamlines the operation of high-volume lawn care com-panies by addressing invoice/ receivable/ cash processing, cus-
tomer history, daily/monthly production, route/delivery 
sequencing, purchasing/inven-tory control, special incentive payrolls, complete accounting, job 
costing and full wholesale dis-
tribution. The package runs on a fixed disk, on-line, fully interactive, multi-user environment. Circle No. 201 on Reader Inquiry Card Mowers feature new technology Ariens Co. is confident that the state-of-the-art components of its walk-behind mower line is exemplified in the Ariens LM21se, a self-propelled electric start 21-inch mower. The four-cycle engine features a mechanical governor that responds quickly to changing con-ditions, electronic ignition with solid state circuitry (eliminating the need for tune-ups), and a float carburetor which calibrates auto-matically for starting efficiency. Standard features are rear bag-ging, side discharge, mulching, variable drive speed control and folding handlebars and large-capacity rear bagger. Circle No. 202 on Reader Inquiry Card Spray truck specially made for lawn care An innovative stainless steel tank truck significantly streamlines 
the lawn treatment process. Key features are: Ł low center of gravity on the tank, enhancing handling and 
making loading easier; Ł a tank that permits transpor-tation of several products at the 
same time; Ł a new jet mixing system, allowing ground level induction 193 of either wet or dry chemicals without damage or clogging to the basic pumping system; Ł a single switch that automati-cally sets pressure and volume for the entire system; and Ł a hydraulic and self-con-tained agitation system. The International Harvester chassis comes with a 6.9 liter die-
sel engine and four-speed auto-matic transmission. Circle No. 203 on Reader Inquiry Card Granule spreader for easy application The Acme Spred-Rite G granule 
spreader is a hand-held unit designed for quicker, easier and 
more precise application of her-bicides, insecticides or other gran-ular products. to page 30 n > $ Z n > pa m Z a c C/5 H pa en m t: m 03 m pa 5 00 Genuine Jacobsen parts are built 
to work. Some parts are built to fit. There's a big difference. The part on the right is designed, manufactured, specified, stocked, sold and guaranteed for 1 full year by Jacobsen. It does a whole lot more than just fit. It works perfectly. The part on the left has been manufac-tured to fit Jacobsen equipment. It looks like a Jacobsen part but doesn't always work as well. In fact, in the area of key part replacement, not using a Jacobsen part can result in severe dam-age to equipment. We think that customers buy parts based upon their ability to deliver maximum perform-ance, dependability and and long life and we do everything possible to insure these qualities in every genuine Jacobsen part. Jacobsen parts are designed and manufactured by the people who design and manufacture our original equipment. This 
insures the highest and most consistent quality in the areas of materials and workmanship. For example, the metals used in Jacobsen parts meet exacting specifications in the areas of composition, hardness and heat treatment. And permanent tooling maintains uniformly high results in the forming, drilling, punching and 
machining of every Jacobsen part. So, whether you're buying gears, bedknives, wheels, filters or any replacement part for Jacobsen equipment, remember the difference. Some parts are built to fit. Jacobsen parts are built to work... beautifully. TEXTRON Jacobsen Division of Textron Inc. Jacobsen. Engineered from the ground up.. P B Granule spreader ^ from page 29 Designed to achieve a swath up g to 24 inches, its long-necked Q design also makes the Spred-Rite - G ideal for precision edging. Man-as ufactured by PBI-Gordon, this u spreader complements the com-
z pany's new soil-active granular < herbicides, Dyclomec and Nor-J osac. Circle No. 204 on Reader Inquiry Card Flowable fungicide hits L.C. market To satisfy the need for a broad spectrum liquid fungicide for pro-fessional use, O.M. Scott & Sons has introduced Fluid Fungicide, a new addition to the ProTurf prod-uct line. The new chemical comple-ments Scotts' traditional granular approach to turf maintenance. It offers a unique combination of active ingredients providing con-tact and systemic action, optimum suspension, an easily dispersable product, no clogging of equipment 
and competitive pricing. Fluid Fungicide provides pre-vention and control of red leaf i The WESTMAr WORLD S FASTEST RESIDENTIAL PLUG AERATOR AERATES 5.000 sq. ft Lawns in 15 Minutes or Less MOST DURABLE MANEUVERABLE NEW 1984 MODEL 32 SPOONS Š 60 HOLES PER SQ. YD. 5 HP BRIGGS AND STRATTON ENGINE WITH CHAIN AND BEARING TRANSMISSION. LARGE PNEUMATIC TIRES. TRAVELS 100 LIN. FT. IN 20 SECONDS TO AERATE 750 SQ. FT. PER MINUTE. DEADMAN'S CLUTCH STOPS IT ON A DIME. EXTRA WEIGHT CAN BE ADDED Lawn P.O. Box 652, Kenosha, Wl 53141 (414)552-8911 Circle No. 115 on Reader Inquiry Card Now, the ultimate in lawn spray application, the Spraymaster 1200. Built by experienced personnel with an eye toward total quality. The Spraymaster 1200 is designed for maximum efficiency and durability. It's main features include a rugged 1200 gallon capacity steel tank with inner support baffle and mechanical 
agitator to maintain full suspension and complete mixing of product. Side platforms with stake pockets for versatility. Two 
nose reels with 500' of heavy duty nylon lawn spray hose (each reel) are mounted on curb side of the platform and feature power 
rewind. One spray gun applicator is provided. Product is delivered by an industrial type, heavy duty, PTO driven piston pump. A lockable underbody tool box is provided. Completed units will be finish painted to specifications with acrylic enamel or Imron paints. Spraymaster options include stainless steel or fiberglass tanks. Spraymaster can be built with the same design 
features with your choice of 600, 700 and 800 gallon capacities. Other custom options are available to suit your needs. Spraymaster, your key to a quality lawn spray unit. I BUCKEYE TRUCK EQUIPMENT 939 East Starr Ave Columbus, Ohio 43203 Ask for Bruce Dountz 614-299-1136 Ohio Wats 1-800-282-6520 Circle No. 134 on Reader Inquiry Card Advances in Turfgrass Pathology published by HARCOURT BRACE JOVANOVICH PUBLICATIONS in cooperation with Dr. B. G. Joyner, Dr. P. O. Larsen and Chemlawn Corporation $27.95* (hardcover) This extensive volume contains chapters on: Ł turfgrass diseases Ł cool v.s. warm season pythium blight and other related pythium problems Ł snow molds of turfgrasses Ł fairy rings Ł leaf spot of Kentucky Bluegrass in Minnesota 
Ł initial and filed fungicide screening Ł turfgrass disease resistance Ł PLUS MUCH MORE! ADVANCES IN TURFGRASS PATHOLOGY is a compilation of more than 23 reports and discussions by the nation's leading turfgrass pathologists. Explore the diseases that attack turfgrass. Find out how to conquer the battle of turfgrass diseases. KEEP CURRENT WITH NEW IDEAS ON HOW TO HANDLE TURFGRASS PROBLEMS WITH ADVANCES IN TURFGRASS PATHOLOGY. COPIES LIMITED Š DON'T DELAY! Return this coupon to: Book Sales Harcourt Brace Jovanovich Publications One East First Street, Duluth, MN 55802 YES! Please send me copy(ies) of ADVANCES IN TURFGRASS PATHOLOGY. Name. Address. City Phone. .State . -Zip -$27.95* hardcover Quantity rates available on request. A check or money order for. Js enclosed. 'Please add $3.00 per order plus $1.00 per additional copy for postage and handling. Please charge to my Visa, Master Card, or American Express (circle one) Account Number Expiration Date. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery. LCI 9/84 spot, dollar spot, brown patch and pink snow mold, and can be used on bermudagrass, ryegrass, fine and tall fescues and Kentucky 
bluegrass. Circle No. 205 on Reader Inquiry Card Eclipse first in bluegrass nationals Eclipse Kentucky bluegrass was rated No.l in the third year of the 1980 National Kentucky Bluegrass Test. Eclipse was consistently high in overall quality and shade toler-ance in tests conducted at 32 sites nationwide, according to Dr. Leah 
Brilman of Jacklin Seed Co. 
Included in the evaluations were more than 80 cultivars and 20 new 
varieties. In the 1983 tests, Eclipse dem-onstrated resistance to leaf spot, melting out, dollar spot, red 
thread, Fusarium blight, Pythium 
blight and stripe rust. It pre-viously demonstrated resistance 
to leaf rust, stem rust, powdery mildew and stripe smut, and per-
formed well in shade trials. Circle No. 206 on Reader Inquiry Card Six walk-behinds give appealing cut Locke Manufacturing has six reel-type walk-behind mowers avail-able, each of which gives a better-looking cut because of the type blade. In addition, Locke claims that its mowers last a minimum of 15-20 years, with proper mainte-nance. Single units available are the 25-inch Model 2 and 30-inch 
Model 5. Triplex units on the mar-ket are the 70-inch Model 6, the 70-inch Model 10 (with reverse), the 75-inch Model 8 and the 75-
inch Model 23 (with reverse). An added safety feature is that reel mowers can pass over debris safely, while rotaries can pick up 
and eject debris at high velocities. 
Circle No. 207 on Reader Inquiry Card Fertilizer available with added insecticide Lesco 24-4-12 with 1.5% Oftanol has received federal EPA 
approval. The chemical, besides 
providing needed nutrients, is an effective control for white grubs, chinchbugs, sod webworms and mole crickets. Other formulations available are Lesco 24-4-8 Plus 1.5% Oftanol with iron and manganese for Southern turfgrasses and a 
straight control product, Lesco 1.5% Granular Oftanol. The chemicals are labelled for grub larvae (such as the Japanese beetle) and the hyperodes wee-vil. Circle No. 208 on Reader Inquiry Card SprayMaster Lawn Service Unit Sharpener has lifetime guarantee Temrex introduces the Neivert Whittler, a professional sharpen-ing tool for the lawn care industry that has been widely used throughout the dental field in the past. With just a few quick strokes, any blade can be restored to its original sharp edges without removing excessive metal. The Whittler's five-sided sharpening head of tungsten car-bideŠwith 90 percent of the cut-ting power of a diamondŠis guaranteed for lifetime use. It is lightweight, solid, with a firm grip design that makes it comfortable 
to hold and safe to use. Circle No. 209 on Reader Inquiry Card Bulletins available on gypsum benefits In most heavy clay or alkaline soils, gypsum (calcium sulfate) makes it possible to have lux-urious lawns. To achieve such a lawn, U.S. Gypsum has issued two bulletins detailing the uses, applications and benefits of using 
Sof'n-Soil Lawn and Garden Gyp-sum. Bulletin IG-101 explains the product and how it acts as a clay 
soil conditioner. Bulletin IG-110 explains that Sof n-Soil is a solu-ble non-halogen mineral form of calcium andŠunlike other liming materialsŠis a neutral material which does not upset the soil's pH balance. The two bulletins are designed to help landscapers improve the 
soils they must deal with on a day-
to-day basis. Circle No. 210 on Reader Inquiry Card Tool box doubles as fuel container The ToolKan from Stihl is a handy, unique convenience for anyone working with outdoor power equipment. It does double 
duty on the job as a can for fuel and a box for tools. ToolKan's top half carries a whole U.S. gallon of engine fuel for your two-cycle power equip-ment, while its bottom half pro-
vides a handy space for tools and 
other carry-around items. ToolKan is made of corrosion-to page 32 COST CUTTINGS Motivating employees In the long run, the motivated employee will 
pay your company dividends, so the search goes on for fool-proof incentives which will improve the attendance and work records of 
employees. Bonus days off and extra pay seem to be among those most generally used to improve 
attendance, according to California Landscape Management magazine. One company likes the extra pay approach: for every four consecutive months of perfect 
attendance, an employee is awarded one day's 
pay. When an employee compiles a record of perfect attendance for a full year, an additional 
day of pay is awarded. This gives an employee the chance to make four extra days' pay per year for perfect atten-dance. With such an incentive, an employee often will decide to work when not feeling 100 per-
cent, but not actually sick. Those absences are 
costly to employers. z n > pa m Z a c C/5 H pa cn m ra m ra m pa <o ao Wh Why go with a beauty that s only talented in the sun? Go with Glade for the double performance in Sun and Shade Š up to 60% shade. Beautiful, low growing, lower cost, and lower 
maintenance needs. Glade Š from your local wholesale seed distributor. Kentucky bluegrass U S Plant Patent 3151 License in Canada No 2133 Another fine, quality-controlled product of Jacklin Seed Company oc w CQ S u EŠ bu u co >-os EŠ co 
D Q Z w a: < u z < MONEYWISE Fertilizer savings You can save thousands of dollars in purchas-ing fertilizers for your business over the next year, if you know the real prices, if you know 
which suppliers are offering the deals, and if 
you know what your competitors are paying. This is the critical information available in Green Markets magazine, a fertilizer market intelligence weekly. The magazine gives you 130 U.S. prices, pro-vides in-depth analysis of regional markets, oversees supply trends and keeps you on top of agronomic developments. One of Green Markets' readers reported a savings of $15 per ton for 100 tons of fertilizer. Subscriptions are $266 for six months. New subscribers can secure the first three issues without any obligation. For more information, write Green Markets, Dept. 5, 1120 Vermont Ave. NW, Suite 1200, Washington, DC, 20005. Some lawn mowers weren't meant to do a professional job. Ordinary lawn care equipment may be fine for home use. Light work. Once a week. But when it comes to the day-in, and day-out, 8-hour-a-day grind of commercial lawn care, with heavy grass and wet conditions common, you need the heavy duty ruggedness of Sensation. Backed by 45 years of experience building professional equipment, Sensation uses industrial/commercial engines, heavy-gauge components and field proven designs. The re-sult is equipment that will work hard, long hours and keep coming back for more, with little or no downtime. Equipment that's designed for maximum user convenience, and han-dling ease. So if you're a professional landscaper responsible for maintenance of public or private property, get the lawn care equipment that's number one on the job. Number one with professionals. Sensation. Number One On The Job. That's why professionals count on us. > V. n1vV\\L / Sensation Power Equipment Division, Gilson Brothers Company, P.O. Box 536, Plymouth, Wl 53073, Phone: 414/893-1011 "See us at the GIA Show Booth #423" Tool box doubles from page 31 resistant 20-gauge steel and fea-tures a flexible pouring spout stored under the grip. 
Circle No. 211 on Reader Inquiry Card Attachment helps eliminate trimming Excel Industries' 72-inch heavy duty Dual Trim rotary mower attachment for Hustler tractors has been designed to deliver a high-quality cut and eliminate nearly all hand trim work. Designed for all Hustler models except the 261, the rear discharge deck is center-mounted with 9.75-inch offset trim capability on both 
sides of the deck. The low profile 
design permits mowing under-neath shrubbery and other over-
hanging obstacles. Cutting height can be adjusted from one to five inches. Circle No. 212 on Reader Inquiry Card Chemical lawn care and landscape management companies can order a free subscription to the indus-try's most popular maga-zine. Simply fill out the Reader Service Card and drop it in a mailboxŠto-
day. LCI Advisory Board I ê H Jerry Faulring Hydro-Lawn Gaithersburg, MD Ron Kujawa KEI Enterprises Cudahy, WI Dr. John Street Ohio State Univ. Columbus. OH THE LAST WORD 33 Liquid/dry from the sideline The methodology for applying materials to turfgrassŠliquid 
versus dryŠhas been a point of discussion ever since I can remember. It's been argued within the industry over probably five million beers. It's been argued in 
the marketplace in advertising 
campaigns, and offered up by salesmen as the "magic in my program." Product manufacturers, formulators and distributors have 
all participated in the debate. Depending on the perspective, anyone can conjure up a good 
argument for or against a met-hod. I've always liked the one 
that says, "Your lawn doesn't 
chew food, it drinks it." Kind of cute. Or how about all that good "foliar absorption" stuff? It's also fun to chew over "negative osmotic pressure effect"Ša "smoked lawn." Clearly, we must also concern ourselves with "water buffaloes" (big tankers), exhaust pollution, energy conservation, low volume spraying, injector guns (dev-
eloped as a result of Star Wars), 
proportioned, eductors and 
spray jockeys. The bottom line is that boys will be boys (girls will be girls), and competitors will forever sell with a bias. What's the big deal, anyway? Possibly with some regional or 
market-specific inherent bias, most lawn care owners could care less what you do or how 
you do itŠas long as the product is what they expected. From my perspective, I've never been able to get too fired up about debating the issue. The end result can get screwed up 
just as easily with either method. However, I can support any system that implies an oppor-tunity to reduce pesticide usage, or that will permit its discriminate use. I'm not talking efficiency, productivity or profits here, just discriminate pesticide use. Simply stated, if you take the pesticide out of the fertilizer tank, you can realize substantial 
increases in selective pesticide use. Inject them, proportion them, or double-pass the lawn. It makes little difference to me. But don't blanket-apply a pesticide unless benefit can be derived. For far too long we have viewed pesticides as inexpensive insurance against possible pest populations. As I've said before, the industry needs to take a long look, in this respect, at their techniques and technology. Again, I really don't care about your liquid or dry philosophy. But 
for a sometimes-dumb farm boy like me, I like it when it's simple. 
Spreading or spraying a fertilizer and spraying one pesticide at a time, when needed, is a lot more simple than having to understand fluid dynamics, injection-this and injection-that, recalibration, viscosity, pressure, friction loss, and so on. High technology does not always get the job done. You can go on debating the issueŠand you willŠor you can concede that something other than agronomics and negative osmotic pressure looms larger. Jerry Faulring HydroLawn > Z n > 73 m Z a c in H 73 in m 73 m 2 DD m 73 to oc ¿t PORTABLE FIELD IDENTIFICATION MACAOSCOPE Handy unit for making precise "On Sight" field diagnoses. Identify insects, fungus and diseases easily 
and professionally. Com-pact unit only 6" long also converts to scope for estimating distances and 
tree heights. Comes with 10 
day money back guarantee. I -Winter Overcoat Š Anti desiccant GP-20 Power Back Pack Sprayer PTP 20 Knapsack Sprayer 15-8-5 Tree/Shrub Root Food Injection Deep Root Feeder Complete Pickup/Van Sprayers "COMPLETE INSTRUCTION FOR ALL FALL SERVICES" FRLL IS FOR PROFITS Horticultural Products Ł Soil Testing Spray Equipment Ł Business Services (800) 645-6464 NVS (516) 538-6444 GR••N PRO COOP•RRTIV• S•RVIC•S ELECTRONIC DIGITAL METER The perfect way to monitor all of your liquid ap-plications. Now you can know exactly how much volume you or your applicastor has sprayed on each service call. Installs easily on your spray aun, hose or between the pump and hose reel. The four digit readout will calibrate to most chemicals including insecticides, herbicides, fungicides and fertilizers. Also used for transferring materials, 
filling spray tanks and measuring water flow. Circle No. 108 on Reader Inquiry Card LOW VOLUME SPRAY TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT THE BETTER WAY TO SPRAY! Professional LV Spray Rigs; Injection Gun System to Target 
Pesticides; AND LV 
Support, Training and Expertise Available Only From ... AMERICA'S LOW VOLUME LEADER PERMA-GREEN SUPREME Lease Terms Available Š Call Tom Jessen Nationwide 1-800-346-2001 IN & Canada 219-663-8417 co CT) DC DJ m DJ EŠ 
cu UJ C/3 c* H co D Q g DJ OC < u z CLASSIFIED RATES: 75 cents per word (minimum charge, $25). Boldface words or words in all capital letters charged at $1 per word. Boxed or display ads charged at $70 per column inch,"IX; $65, 3X; $60, 
6X; $55,12X (one inch minimum). Agency commis-
sions will be given only when camera-ready art is provided by agency. For ads using blind box 
number, add $5 to total cost of ad. Send ad copy with payment to: Dawn Anderson, LAWN CARE INDUSTRY, I East First Street, Duluth, MN 55802. BOX NUMBER REPLIES: Mail box number replies to: Lawn Care Industry, Classified Ad Department, 120 W. 2nd St., Duluth, MN 55802. Please include box number in address. FOR SALE HEAVY DUTY 1500 Gallon 3 compartment spray truck PTO driven 100 Gallon/minute Myers pump, twin electric Hannay hose reels with 300 feet of hose each. Mounted on 1973 International truck has new tires, new engine, freshly rebuilt auto-
matic transmission. This cab over is nimble enough for residential plus a real work horse for larger commercial property. Ready to spray, it is working everyday right now. Call 813-957-0798. 9/84 GET ACQUAINTED PRICES- ENVYŽ fertilizers, micronutrients, and adjuvants add profit to your turf care line. Call or write for prices and info. Liberal distributor discounts. National Liquid Fer-tilizer Corporation, 3724 West 38th Street. Chi-cago, IL 60632. (312) 254-3115. TF CLOSEOUT SPECIAL! Save your back issues of LAWN CARE INDUSTRY and save money at the 
same time. We're closing out our line of perma-
nent binders at the special low price of two for only 
$7.50! (This is a $7.00 savings over our regular price plus postage and handling.) Orders will be filled as long as our supply lasts - quantities are limited. Order your binders today from: Book 
Sales, HBJ PUBLICATIONS, One East First Street, Duluth, MN 55802 TF SALE-SALE-SALE-Hannay 12 volt base mount reel motors, $100.00 (new). Regular $160.00. FMC (John Bean) parts and pumps at discounted prices. Hypro pumps parts and accessories at 25% discount. Call: Strong Ent., Inc., Collect: (305) 264-5525. TF John Deere Tractor- 316, 1978. Hydrostatic, with Hydraulic, 2-drum core-aerifier attached. Also has wheel weights. $3,500.00 or best offer. (312) 357-3030. 9/84 WANTED ACCOUNTS WANTED, Chemical lawn care in Columbus, Ohio area. Price open for negotiation. Write LCI Box 118. 9/84 HELP WANTED CAREER OPPORTUNITIES. Chemlawn is now accepting applications for the position of Lawn Specialist in our expanding Florida markets. Join the Nation s Leader in Lawn Care. Send resume to LCI Box 117 9/84 Lawn Care Manager - Expanding company desires a manager for the Maryland - Northern Virginia markets. Applicants must have chemical lawn care experience and some management. Excellent salary and benefits. Send resumes to PO Box 16895, ATTN: Jim Robbins, Baltimore, MD 21236. 9/84 Green Lawn Division of Western Farm Service is looking for experienced lawn care people to work in their newly expanded Southern California areas. Full benefit plan including retirement. In-come commensurate with experience. Expanding rapidly. Excellent opportunity for management. Send resume to Western Farm Service, PO Box 
1307, Oxnard, CA 93032, c/o Ron Carruth. 9/84 BRANCH MANAGER AND ASSISTANT MAN-AGER-First class expanding company desires a Branch Manager and Assistant Manager for the Midwest and Southern markets. Applicants must have chemical lawn care experience. Excellent 
salary and benefits. Send resumes to LCI Box 107. TF MISCELLANEOUS Lawn Care Consulting with emphasis in market-ing. Seven years experience in top four corpora-tion. Phone Larry Fey at (317) 545-5019 evenings only or write to 5305 Kenyon Dr., Indianapolis, IN 
46226. 9/84 KELWAY® SOIL ACIDITY TESTER, used by PRO-
FESSIONALS nationwide. Direct reading, port-able, serviceable. Model HB-2 reads moisture too. 
Available from distributors. Brochure from KEL INSTRUMENTS CO., INC., PO Box 1869, Clifton, NJ 07015, (201) 471-3954 10/84 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FOR SALE- Lawn & Tree Care Service Franchise. Chicago & South Suburbs. 3,100 accounts, over $400,000.00 Gross sales. Send inquiries to: PO Box 407, Orland Park, IL 60462. 9/84 ADVERTISERS NO. ADVERTISER PAGE 101 Bunton 24 102 Carso Computing 23 103 John Deere 17 104 Distribution Manage-ment Systems 14 105 Dow Chemical Cv2&3 106 Fisher & Son (Regional) 8 107 Garfield Williamson 21 108 Green Pro Cooperative 33 109 Hahn 26 110 Jacklin Seed 31 111 Jacklin Seed 23 112 Jacobsen/Textron 29 114 F. D. Kees 26 115 Lawn Master 32 116 Lawn Tech 23 117 Lebanon Chemical 6 118 Lesco Inc .7 119 Locke Mfg 20 120 Moyer & Son (Regional) 12 121 Nor-Am Cv4 
122 Olathe Mfg 34 123 Pennington Seeds 34 124 Perma-Green 33 125 Salsco 18 126 Scag 34 
127 O. M. Scott & Sons 13 128 Sensation 32 129 Toro Cv3 130 Tuflex 22 131 United Agri Products 15 132 United Agri Products 11 133 United States Gypsum 5 NEW PRODUCTS 201 Distribution Manage-ment Systems 29 202 Ariens Co 29 203 International Harvester 29 204 PBI Gordon 30 205 O. M. Scott & Sons 30 206 Jacklin Seed Co 30 207 Locke Mfg 30 208 Lesco Inc 30 209 Temrex 31 
210 United States Gypsum 31 211 Stihl 32 
212 Excel Industries 32 MOWERS 301 Bunton 12 
302 John Deere 12 303 Exmark 12 
304 Gravely 13 305 Jacobsen/Textron 13 306 F. D. Kees 13 
307 Kut-Kwick 13 308 Ransomes 13 309 Sensation 13 310 Toro 13 This index is provided as an additional service. The publisher does not assume any liability for errors or omissions. Circle No. 126 on Reader Inquiry Card Circle No. 122 on Reader Inquiry Card S/7ie Ç/fr&wfuj/iâzet/\c/ Circle No. 123 on Reader Inquiry Card WE MADE OUR UNSPINDLY TO KEEP YOU CUTTING. Toro works hard to give you the kind of riding rotary mower you want most. A mower that keeps you cutting. Gets the job done. In fact, we get down to the tiniest details to produce a totally durable mower. For example, we designed an unspindly spindle to turn the blades of our Groundsmaster 72® and Groundsmaster 52" mowers. First, we made its housing a rugged cone shape, not cylindrical like other makes. To tolerate greater stress and bom-
bardment by rocks and other debris. Next, we specified Timken "SS type" roller bearings, not just ordinary 
ball bearings. They take 
more thrust and are less likely to damage the bearing housing, fall out and have to be replaced. And they don't need adjustment for proper seating. Then, we put splines rather than keys in the shaft and pulley. These machined grooves mesh like gear teeth all around, 
won't slip, and they wear much better and longer than key type systems. Teamed up with more conspicuous durability features like hydrostatic 
drive and a Donaldson air 
cleaner, our unspindly 
spindle keeps you cutting longer and stronger. Call your Toro® distributor. He'll tell you 
all you want to know 
about Toro riding rotary mowers. Right now. TORO. Toro is an exclusive trademark of The Toro Company 8111 Lyndale Ave. So.. Minneapolis. Minnesota 55420. THE PROFESSIONALS THAT KEEP YOU CUTTING Don't Simply Fertilize Yotir Turf... Nourish It With Quality Nitroform Nitrogen Resists Leaching Even In Sandy Soil Always look for the NITROFORM logo It s your assurance of a high quality Nitrogen Even Sustained Growth Healthier Turf Decreased Thatch Build-Up Nonburning And Nonstreaking Slow, Predictable Release By Soil Bacteria To Provide Nitrogen When Most Needed Constant 38% Nitrogen Reduces The 
Risk Of Nitrate Contamination Fewer Applications Per Year Are Required Better Root 
Development #NOR-AM NOR-AM Chemical Company, 3509 Silverside Road, P.O. Box 7495, Wilmington, DE 19803 'Registered trademark of Schering AG West Germany Circle No. 121 on Reader Inquiry Card