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BRUNT Workwear has introduced the USA Marin Welted – BRUNT’s first ever work boot Built in the USA.

This week, 26 CEOs representing some of the world’s largest and most influential landscape architecture firms released a public letter committing their firms to achieve the goals laid out in the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Climate Action Plan. The commitment includes making landscape architecture a zero-emissions profession by 2040. Firms that signed the letter have designed some of the most-visited parks, public plazas, stadium grounds, waterfronts, and transportation corridors across the U.S. and around the world, representing tens of billions of dollars of public and private infrastructure.

(Photo: Adobe Stock / toa555)

Here’s an excerpt from the letter:

“Because we work so closely with land and water, landscape architects are natural leaders in designing climate-resilient communities — from stormwater management to green infrastructure to sustainable transportation to biodiversity conservation. Every day, we design nature-based solutions to help build communities that are more resilient to extreme weather, more equitable for everyone, and more supportive of human health and wellness.”

It also expresses key business commitments:

“Leaders of more than two dozen top-tier firms that influence billions of dollars in infrastructure spending and millions of acres of land have just pledged to make their profession zero emissions by 2040 — this is a really big deal.”

— Torey Carter-Conneen, CEO, ASLA

“We publicly and expressly endorse, support, and commit to the goals articulated in the American Society of Landscape Architects Climate Action Plan, which sets specific and extraordinarily ambitious goals for the profession of landscape architecture to become a zero-emission profession by 2040, including in our business operations, designed landscapes, and the materials and products used in our work.”

The businesses represented on the letter collectively do more than $350 million in revenues annually and lead or contribute to projects with more than $1 billion in construction value annually. Their work influences millions of acres in more than 50 countries every year.

Second Time’s A Charm For Landscape Upgrade At Mission Boulevard Linear Park

The CEOs called on governments, clients, and peers in the closing section of the letter, writing in part:

“We call on our colleagues in allied disciplines to partner with us in designing and implementing solutions. We call on leaders in government at every level to prioritize resilience, emissions reductions, and human wellbeing in their policymaking. We call on our clients to be bold and curious as we design the future together.”

You can read the full letter here.

Click here to read more news about landscape architecture and design on Turf.

Compiled by Turf Staff
From the August 2024 Issue

From work boots to hoodies and headphones, this selection of landscaping and lawn care workwear and gear will make sure your team is ready to take on any job.

Milwaukee® GRIDIRON™ Full-Zip Hoodie

Built to survive, the GRIDIRON™ Full-Zip Hoodie from Milwaukee Tool is constructed with a tear and abrasion resistant, cotton/polyester blend allowing the wearer to withstand jobsite conditions without compromising comfort. Providing versatility to be worn as a midlayer or robust exterior layer, the 400GSM heavyweight fabric ensures superior warmth. The large, reinforced pockets protect high wear and tear zones to ensure the hoodie outlives the job. The Full-Zip Hoodie comes in three colors (Gray, Blue & Black) and is available in sizes S-3X.

Marin Welted Boot By BRUNT Workwear

The Marin Welted boot by BRUNT Workwear fills a critical gap in the heavy-duty market, meeting the needs of workers who prefer and require welted construction boots due to their durability and performance on demanding work sites. The boots were created using Goodyear Welted Construction to provide increased torsional stability and enable resoling. Additionally, they help prevent the foot from bending and twisting when working on uneven surfaces such as rebar, cement, and rock. They feature barnyard-resistant leather, superior waterproofing, double and triple stitching including security stitching in the toe, plus a slip and oil-resistant outsole. The Marin Welted features a high heat-resistant outsole for up to 572°F.

ISOtunes LINK Aware Earmuffs

ISOtunes’ LINK Aware Earmuffs now offer up to 23 hours of battery life, an optional Boom Mic attachment for crystal clear calls, and a padded headband for all-day comfort. Featuring ISOtunes’ level-dependent Aware technology, LINK Aware is an over-ear hearing protector meant to be worn all day. Aware Technology™ amplifies environmental sound for awareness and limits harmful noise and blocks 25 dB of sound. LINK Aware Earmuffs are water-resistant. Users can communicate with coworkers and listen for warning signals, all while enjoying nonstop certified protection.

AMP LT Wedge Boots From Georgia Boots

The AMP LT Wedge waterproof lace-up boots from Georgia Boots are Goodyear welt constructed and feature incredibly tough and abrasion-resistant SPR leather, a heel-stabilizing Counter Lock System, and a padded counter pocket for additional heel support. The boots’ interior features Georgia’s removable AMP LT memory foam insole. The Waterproof System for all-day comfort is guaranteed to keep feet dry. The foundation consists of a fiberglass shank, cushioning EVA midsole, and a Carbo-Tec Rubber outsole. This unique rubber gives the outsole resistance against heat, oil, chemicals, and slips.

Irish Setter Clearwater Work Boots

The Irish Setter Clearwater work boots combine style and safety for light duty jobs. A steel safety toe meets ASTM safety standards for protection and Vibram® Beehive outsole provides great traction through its durable rubber outer skin and unique tread pattern. The non-marking outsole offers best-in-class safety ratings in slip resistance, oil/gas, chemicals, abrasions, and heat. A lightweight, flexible EVA midsole absorbs shock and enhances comfort while a padded collar adds ankle protection and comfort. Durable full grain, waterproof leather and UltraDry™ waterproofing provide long-lasting protection. Available in men’s and women’s sizes.

Kujo Yardwear Surge Boot

The Surge boot from Kujo Yardwear was created with professional landscapers and outdoor workers in mind. The Surge boot is both waterproof and chemical-resistant. The new rubber boot was designed to be tough, but also comfortable enough for the wearer to walk many miles, daily. The boots are 100% waterproof and feature a Kujocool liner and pull-on tabs. The durable vulcanized construction of the Surge boot also includes a cushioned footbed and slip-resistant TurfGrip outsole. Available in men’s and women’s sizes.

Dovetail Workwear Sunbreaker Hoodie

The Dovetail Sunbreaker offers a unique combination of breathability, sun protection, and comfort that sets a new standard in the industry. The jersey hoodie provides comprehensive coverage from head to hand, with chemical-free UPF 50+ protection that shields wearers from harmful UV rays. The integrated hood with cowl design also shields from dust and debris. Crafted from a carefully selected cotton blend, the Sunbreaker achieves a level of softness and lightness perfect for tackling demanding outdoor tasks. The Sunbreaker comes standard with reinforced elbows to enhance the garment’s longevity, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of demanding work environments. The inclusion of thumbholes in the sleeves prevents them from riding up, maintaining consistent coverage during activity.

MuckChore 25th Anniversary Boot

MuckBoot celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024 by reigniting the spirit of the styles that first launched the brand and modernized old favorites with new innovative materials. The Brand’s original Chore boot will commemorate the 25th anniversary with a new logo and green chore colorway with reflective silver details. The Chore will continue to offer 100% waterproof functionality for work on the farm, yard, or in the field. The 25th Anniversary Chore Mid will feature breathable mesh lining and quadruple rubber heel reinforcements that keep feet secure and comfortable, while a quick cleaning rubber outsole offers durability and traction on slick surfaces.

Monocrepe Wedge From Rocky Boot

The Rocky® MonoCrepe Wedge is built with Rocky®’s lightweight oil & slip resisting Rocky® MonoCrepe outsole and Rocky® Air-Port Lite® sponge PU footbed with memory foam for comfort. The rugged work collection keeps feet energized all day long. The waterproof full grain leather uppers and guaranteed Rocky® Recycled Waterproof construction prevent water leaking into boots throughout the workday. Two styles include: a 6” lace-up boot available in soft toe and safety toe and a pull-on 11” boot available in soft toe and safety toe.

Read more Get Equipped features here.

Clay Eubanks

Clay Eubanks, vice chairman of Takeuchi, is celebrating four decades with the company. In September 1984, Eubanks was a college student who began working part time in Takeuchi’s warehouse near Atlanta, GA. He cleaned up the facility and pulled parts from inventory. Over the next 40 years, Eubanks took on more and more responsibility. He honed his knowledge of the equipment industry and rising through the ranks to his current position.

After his stint in the warehouse, Eubanks moved into a full-time role as Takeuchi’s central region sales manager based in Texas. He later moved back to Atlanta and ran Takeuchi’s retail store. He then became the company’s Southern region manager. Eubanks was eventually promoted to national sales manager, general manager, and finally, president of Takeuchi-US. His current position as vice chairman of the board took him to Takeuchi’s global headquarters in Nagano, Japan where he currently lives and works.

“I’m proud to have been a small part of growing two new segments in the construction industry—the compact excavator and the compact track loader—both products that Takeuchi was the first to develop,” Eubanks said. “In the early days, no one knew what these machines were, and it was a real thrill traveling the country and demonstrating what they could accomplish. What started out as laughter often turned to amazement.”

Eubanks says that, over the past 40 years, technology has had the greatest impact on the compact construction equipment industry. When he began his career with Takeuchi, there were no cell phones, tablet computers, or even laptops. Machines were very basic and not connected in any way. Technology has truly made its mark, and he doesn’t see that trend changing anytime soon.

“I believe the industry will continue to evolve with more machine control and technology-driven features,” Eubanks said. “What won’t change is the need to listen to customers and provide what they want and need. It’s up to us to determine how technology can help us achieve that higher level of customer satisfaction.”

As Eubanks reflected on his long career path with Takeuchi, he hoped that other young people will be able to find a lifelong career with the company as he did back in 1984.

Click for a previous Turf Magazine article entitled “Investing in Heavy Equipment for Landscaping.”

Have you ever taken a stroll through your neighborhood, only to be overcome with secondhand embarrassment as you look at a neighbor’s dead or overgrown lawn? Or maybe the lack of maintenance and upkeep makes their yard look like a dumping ground? Unfortunately, this experience isn’t uncommon for many homeowners. Neglected yards are not just an eyesore but a source of embarrassment for neighbors.

Top Rail Fence surveyed 869 homeowners about their feelings toward their neighbors’ yards and the financial and emotional impact these practices have.

Most Homeowners Feel Embarrassed or Frustrated About the Appearance of Their Neighbors’ Yards 

Many homeowners said they feel bothered (36%) or experience feelings of frustration (34%) by the appearance of their neighbors’ yards.

Millennials (42%) and Gen X (37%) experience the strongest feelings of frustration, and 45% of both generations admit to feeling embarrassed by their neighbors’ yards. On the other hand, 34% of baby boomers have no feelings about the look of their neighbors’ outdoor spaces.

But don’t be fooled; not every homeowner experiences negative feelings. In fact, 29% said they admire their neighbors’ yards. One in five respondents said they feel envious of their neighbors’ yards — with more men (25%) having this feeling than women (15%).

More Than Half of Homeowners Say the Appearance of Neighbors’ Yards Impacts Their Ability To Enjoy Their Outdoor Space

Outdoor spaces ​​have become a top priority among homeowners after the pandemic. Sal Dimiceli, owner of Lake Geneva Area Realty, says, “The months-long restrictions to go out fortified the importance of having outdoor spaces where the homeowners can enjoy nature, do gardening, or hang out with their loved ones. So, homebuyers are leaning more toward tidy, landscaped yards to soothe their minds with the greenery and prefer properties with such features.”

But can the appearance of a neighbor’s yard impact a homeowner’s ability to enjoy their outdoor space? Unfortunately, more than half (55%) of respondents said it can — with more men (63%) agreeing than women (47%).

Trash (59%), overgrown grass (55%), and overgrown landscaping (52%) were deemed the biggest eyesores in a neighbor’s yard. Respondents also said junk cars (47%) and dilapidated structures (42%) like sheds or carports were embarrassing.

So what makes a neighbor’s yard a source of pride rather than embarrassment? Our survey shows that landscaping (31%) and lawn care (27%) take the lead for the most influential features to improve a yard’s overall appeal. According to the National Association of Realtors 2023 Remodeling Impact Report, lawn care services and landscape maintenance can yield a significant return on investment.

Other impactful features for homeowners include fencing (15%), outdoor living spaces (14%), and hardscaping (14%).

Click here for the full report by Top Rail Fence.

For another homeowner landscaping and yard care survey from Thumbtack as covered by Turf Magazine, click here.

By Jerry Schill
From the August 2024 Issue

The landscaping and snow and ice removal industry has become fragmented over the years, as low barriers to entry and entrepreneurial spirit enticed a generation of owner/operators to start their own business in pursuit of the American Dream. Today, there are more than 640,000 landscaping companies in the U.S. and that number continues to grow by about 3% per year, according to IBISWorld.

Many landscaping companies are local, family-owned businesses run by Baby Boomer entrepreneurs in their 60’s and starting to think about how and when they can retire. Some owners may not have a clear exit strategy for when it’s time to bow out. Perhaps their siblings, business partners, or co-owners have different ideas and timelines in mind for their own retirements. In some cases, their children or other family members might not be interested in taking over the business.

(Photo: Adobe Stock / kittyfly)

Creating An Owner Network

An Owner Network creates an enormous opportunity to bring local, independently owned landscaping businesses together under one umbrella, and create a best-in-class organization that keeps sellers involved. This model provides continuity and a smooth
transition as owners can offer strategic recommendations, while gaining confidence that the business they created and nurtured for so many years will continue to flourish until they are ready to fully retire.

An Owner Network creates an enormous opportunity to bring local, independently owned landscaping businesses together under one umbrella, and create a best-in-class organization that keeps sellers involved.

Bringing independent businesses into a unified family of companies also allows them to tap into greater financial resources. Often, small businesses do not have the resources to invest in better technology and accounting systems, operational planning, dispatch, CRM software, sales and marketing, and future investment opportunities. Consolidation drives economies of scale so the company can expand and offer better service and greater support to multi-location customers and clients in new areas.

Choosing The Right Partner

When considering whether to sell a landscaping business, it’s crucial to choose the right partner. Merging with another small local landscaping company might be a good exit strategy for some owners, while others may want to target larger companies with greater financial backing and resources.

Possessing those additional resources is part of the reason why Schill Grounds Management accepted investments from private investment management firms Balance Point Capital Advisors, LLC and Argonne Capital Group. We knew it would be an advantage we could offer to our partners.

Access to new capital can drive growth for businesses that may have had previous constraints. Investments in new mowers, plows, trucks, and other heavy equipment can help improve operational efficiency. Sophisticated financial software makes accounting, bookkeeping, reporting, and cash flow management more streamlined. Top-of-the-line CRM platforms and professional sales, marketing, and media relations teams help attract and retain customers and enhance reputation.

Supporting Future Growth

One of the strongest reasons to consider combining with another company is the potential for future growth under an established executive leadership team. Since 2020, Schill has made more than a dozen strategic acquisitions to expand its service territory across the upper Midwest and Great Lakes region, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and Canada.

Many owners who transitioned their companies to Schill and entrusted us to assume management continue to provide valuable insight on local operations, customer needs, and market dynamics. They hold important advisory and leadership roles in our “owner’s network” as they support integration. These owners help bring our teams together and adopt a shared culture that supports our values. Schill now operates 29 branches and supports 5,000+ commercial customers across many industries.

The Grass Really Is Greener

Five Do’s & Don’ts Of Selling A Family Landscape Business

Today, we are proud to have a team of 1,200+ talented and qualified employees, and we are always looking for more. We offer competitive pay and benefits, as well as comprehensive training programs and career advancement opportunities so people can develop new skills and pursue career paths that are meaningful and rewarding to them. Some of the owners of companies we acquired are happily retired now and have relinquished their operating roles to the next generation of leaders.

We believe consolidation is already helping our industry become healthier, as new investment capital and strategic planning allow businesses to thrive and accelerate growth. We will continue to drive consolidation to create a stronger company with a positive impact.

Much like the way we carefully tend lawns and landscapes to optimize overall health and performance, our strategic acquisition planning and prudent investments have allowed our company to prosper and shine. And we’re just getting started. We are confident
that the best is yet to come.

Schill is the Founder & President of Schill Grounds Management, a Cleveland-based company that has grown to become one of the largest landscaping and snow and ice removal businesses in the country. In addition to growing organically, Schill is driving consolidation in the highly fragmented industry by acquiring independently owned and operated businesses and creating an “owner’s network” that keeps former owners involved in running the business and providing strategic recommendations until they are ready to completely retire. Schill operates 29 branches across six regions in the Midwest and Canada and supports 5,000+ commercial customers across a variety of industries. 

Do you have a comment? Share your thoughts in the Comments section below, or send an e-mail to the Editor at jessica@groupc.com.

By Nancy Buley

Whether in the wild or growing in managed landscapes, trees and the people who care for them are facing unprecedented challenges. A warming climate and changes in historic weather patterns are putting extraordinary pressure on our forests worldwide.

Compromised by extremes in precipitation (flooding/drought) as well as temperature (too hot/too cold), our native and urban forests are increasingly falling victim to pests and diseases that can weaken and/or outright kill once-healthy trees.

Urban foresters tell us that the best defense against climate change, pests and diseases is diversity. Planting a diverse mix of genus and species, adapted to your climate and growing conditions, is key to developing a resilient landscape. By planting a variety of tough, widely adaptable, resilient trees, you’ll greatly decrease the risk of a pest or disease sweeping through the landscapes you manage and causing widespread damage or death of your trees.

To help you get started on the path to selecting and growing healthy, durable trees that will enhance your landscapes large and small, we recommend these tough, adaptable, pest and disease resistant, climate-forward trees. Classic shade trees with broad canopies, columnar oaks, and trees of small stature are described.

Flashfire® Maple

Flashfire® Maple

(Acer saccharum ‘JFS-Caddo2’)

Named for its brilliant orange-red fall color, Flashfire® Maple is our top pick among trees grown from seed collected from an isolated population of sugar maples located in Caddo County, OK. This strain of heat-adapted sugar maples has evolved in rocky, arid, limestone soils of western Oklahoma. This heritage makes it a good fit for difficult urban planting sites. Flashfire® Maple is well adapted to hot and dry weather, but still has good cold hardiness. Its leathery dark green leaves are tolerant of heat and drought and resist leaf tatter. Fall color develops at a younger age than most sugar maples and is a reliable, brilliant red. ‘John Pair’ and ‘Autumn Splendor’ are cultivars selected by the late Dr. John Pair for whom the John C. Pair Center of Kansas State University is named. Powder Keg® Maple (Acer saccharum ‘Whit XLIX’ PP 23957) is also descended from the Caddo maple population. Hardiness is USDA Zone 5.

White Shield Osage Orange

White Shield Osage Orange

(Maclura pomifera ‘White Shield’)

What’s not to like about this handsome, durable shade tree? It thrives in urban soil conditions ranging from acid to alkaline, wet to dry, and is tolerant of drought, periodic flooding and road salt. Fruitless and thornless, its strong wood and branch attachments prevent storm damage. Resistant to diseases, insect pests and deer, the tree is a fine choice for sites where other trees fail.

Wichita Osage Orange is another fruitless option, developed by the late Dr. John Pair of Kansas State University. It presents a more symmetrical and fully branched canopy as it reaches a mature height and spread of 35′ x 35′. It also lacks the spiny thorns typical of seedling-grown trees.

Though its native range is limited mostly to Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas, Osage Orange is widely adaptable and thrives throughout much of the Midwest and beyond. Its spread is thanks to early settlers who planted thorny seedlings to grow a hedge or fence row to be “horse high, bull strong and pig tight.”

Espresso™ Kentucky Coffee Tree

Espresso™ Kentucky Coffee Tree

(Gymnocladus dioicus ‘Espresso-JFS’)

Arching branches of this North American native tree give it an elm-like form. Huge, doubly compound leaves composed of small, bluish-green leaflets provide filtered shade and give it a tropical feel. Our seedless selection bears none of the big seed pods that can be problematic in landscapes and streetscapes. This long-lived and highly adaptable tree is tolerant of heat, drought, cold and acid to alkaline soils. Mature height and spread are approximately 50′ x 35′.

Swamp White Oak

Swamp White Oak (Quercus bicolor)

Don’t be fooled by its name. While it is well adapted to poorly drained sites, Swamp White Oak handles drought equally well. Though in the wild it is found most often in low lying, moist bottomlands, it is adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions. Its lustrous dark green leaves have wavy margins. Fall color ranges from yellow brown to reddish tones. Its canopy is rounded and open, with a mature height and spread of about 45′. (Zone 4)

American Dream® Oak

American Dream® Oak

(Quercus bicolor ‘JFS-KW12’ P.P. 23632)

This fast-growing cultivar offers the drought and heat resistance of the species, as well as the ability to thrive on poorly drained sites. It also demonstrates good resistance to anthracnose and mildew – diseases often exhibited by seedling-grown trees. Its large, lustrous, deep green leaves are thick and glossy, with wavy margins. After turning buttery yellow in autumn, they turn to rich tawny brown and remain on the tree late into the season.

Texas Red Oak

(Quercus buckleyi) is a native of Texas and Oklahoma that offers bright fall color. Moderate in size for an oak, it grows in about 35 years to a height and spread of approximately 40′ x 40′. Green, glossy summer foliage turns orange red to red in autumn. Dr. Greg McPherson, retired USDA urban forester who led the aforementioned 17-year performance trial, describes it in one of a series of videos about Climate Ready Trees presented by Tree Davis, a non-profit tree planting organization in Davis, California. Prior to his retirement from the Forest Service, Dr. McPherson spearheaded a collaborative 20-year study of climate-ready trees for California, ongoing under the direction of University of California, Davis.

Columnar oaks

For those seeking shade in space-challenged settings, these oak cultivars are tailor-made for landscapes that don’t have room for a classic, spreading oak. They offer the same oak adaptability and resilience in a slender package.

Crimson Spire™ Oak

Crimson Spire™ Oak (Quercus bimundorum ‘Crimschmidt’) is a hybrid of the North American native White Oak (Quercus alba) and English Oak (Quercus robur). Introduced by our nursery more than 30 years ago, this hybrid is a tough and time-proven performer in landscapes from California to Colorado, Kansas to Chicago and beyond. Other narrow hybrid cultivars include Streetspire® Oak, Kindred Spirit® Oak, Regal Prince® Oak and Skinny Genes® Oak.

Beacon® Oak (Quercus bicolor ‘Bonnie and Mike’) is a columnar selection of Swamp White Oak (Quercus bicolor) discovered by Dr. Michael Dirr. This slender version of the widely planted North American native offers the same heat and drought tolerance and adaptability to varied climates and growing conditions as the species.

Tough trees of smaller stature

MaacNificent® Maackia

MaacNificent® Maackia (Maackia amurensis ‘JFS-Schichtel1’)

This selection of Amur Maackia is distinguished from seedling-grown trees by its vigorous, upright growth habit and symmetrical, vase-shaped form. Narrow, compound leaves drape from upright branches to give the tree a cool, airy look. Glossy, dark green foliage is complemented by creamy white flowers in mid-summer that are very attractive to pollinators. Blooms are borne on stiff, upright racemes when few other trees are flowering. This attractive small tree (30′ x 22′) performs well in harsh urban environments and has proven tolerant of heat, drought and cold. USDA Zone 3 hardiness and the ability to thrive in poor soils, acid or alkaline, make this nitrogen fixer a great choice for difficult sites.

Seven-son Flower

Seven-Son Flower (Heptacodium miconioides) earned high praise from Dr. Jason Griffin of Kansas State University, who called it the “crape myrtle of the North” in The League of Extraordinary Trees, published in Nursery Management magazine in February 2014. The article recommends “10 species with superpowers that thrived during a historic drought.” It has a lush, tropical appearance in summer, with glossy green leaves that fall in autumn to reveal rugged branches with exfoliating, gray-brown bark. Fragrant while flowers appear in late summer. It’s late-season blooms are a magnet for hummingbirds, bees and other pollinators. After the flower petals drop, the long-lasting ornamental calyxes remain on the plant. They retain their bright red in color well into autumn and are easily mistaken to be the flowers of crape myrtle. Left on its own, it will tend to grow as a large, rangy shrub, but it can be trained to be a single- or multi-stem tree.

Stars & Sparks™ Seven-son Flower (Heptacodium miconioides ‘JFS GM1HM’)

Upright growth habit and stout branch structure form a sturdy tree of small stature that grows to a height and spread of about 18′ x 12′. Unique in form, flower, foliage and bark, this rugged individual is a standout in a species that’s typically multi-stemmed or shrubby in growth habit.

City Sprite® Zelkova

City Sprite® Zelkova (Zelkova serrata ‘JFS-KW1’)

Urban foresters and utility companies already appreciate the compact, tidy growth habit of this petite tree that’s tailor-made for city streets and tight spaces. Short internodes contribute to its compact, dense, and semi-dwarf form, resulting is the perfect little tree for constricted planting sites. Oval to rounded, it grows to a height of approximately 24′ with a spread of about 18′. Fine textured foliage is brighter green in summer than the leaves of typical Zelkova and turns yellow in autumn. Storm-resistant branches and a stout, sturdy trunk assure its survival on city streets.

This small sampler of trees will help kickstart your quest to plant resilient trees for the future. Find detailed descriptions of the trees described in the J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co. online library. For a deeper dive, reach out to your local community’s urban forester or to your state’s Urban & Community forester. You can find a list of State Urban Forestry Coordinators on the Arbor Day Foundation site.

Nancy Buley is Director of Communications for J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co., wholesale tree growers of Boring, Oregon, where she has been “talking trees” for 30 years. A former newspaper reporter, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Technical Journalism and Horticulture from Oregon State University.  A Lifetime Honorary member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, Nancy has earned national recognition for her tree advocacy and stewardship efforts including over a decade of service on the board of directors of Friends of Trees. Nancy lives and gardens on a couple of acres in Boring, where in her spare time she helps her son tend an eclectic assortment of trees at their boutique nursery, Treephoria.

Nancy Buley is a previous Turf Magazine featured contributor. Click for one of her previous pieces entitled, “Tree Planting: Evolution Of The Tree”.

Valley Green will begin operating under the Advanced Turf Solutions name starting January 1, 2025. The two companies came together in 2022 when Advanced Turf Solutions, Inc., George Furrer, and Charles Dooley formed a new company that acquired assets of the New England-based distributor Valley Green, Inc. Operating as one, Advanced Turf Solutions (ATS) will cater to the needs of customers in 30 states through 33 locations.

“Since the pandemic, customer service in our industry and others has been diluted. We refuse to accept that as the new normal. This consolidation reinforces our commitment to providing customers with sound agronomic advice, the best product choices available, and second-to-none service,” said George Furrer, president of Valley Green.

Furrer continued, “Our goal remains to be the supplier of choice for professional turfgrass managers in New England and across the country, and we’ll continue to invest in things that support that goal and allow us to serve more customers.”

As Valley Green locations adopt the ATS name, Valley Green’s legacy will continue. It will still be recognized as a retail brand catering to homeowners who are passionate about lawn care. Valley Green’s sales, delivery, and customer service teams will remain unchanged under ATS.

New signage with the Advanced Turf Solutions name will be implemented at current Valley Green locations. The same personalized service customers have come to know and trust will remain.

Click for Turf Magazine‘s Yardstick Profile on Beth Barry, VP, Turf & Ornamental Sales, Advanced Turf Solutions, Fishers, IN.

By Mike Ryan
From the August 2024 Issue

The Capital One Center is a vibrant 24.5-acre mixed-use corporate, retail, and cultural arts destination spanning five blocks in Tysons Corner, VA. Anchored by the headquarters of Capital One, the site brings the larger community together with restaurants, shops, artwork, games, and events in a modern live-work-play paradigm.

Today, a highlight of the property is Capital One Hall, a large interior meeting facility that doubles as an affordable event space for community arts organizations. Another focal point is “The Perch.” Known as “the park in the sky,” it’s a greenspace 11 stories high atop of Capital One Hall where visitors can enjoy a beverage at Starr Hill Biergarten, play a round of golf at Perch Putt — an 18-hole miniature golf experience featuring food trucks and a Tiki Bar — or walk through the beautiful Great Lawn.

The Capital One Center is quickly transforming the skyline and cultural landscape of Fairfax County, VA. To see more of this project, view the gallery of images below. (All photos courtesy of Ruppert Landscape.)

Here’s how my company, Ruppert Landscape, helped transform this multi-level project, including The Perch, into an attractive, high density, urban lifestyle hub.

Project Goals

In 2019, Ruppert Landscape was brought on to create a landscape design for an environmentally conscious area where people could live, work and play. With this in mind, three goals were identified as priorities for the project: to improve the busy urban area’s walkability and connectivity; to demonstrate how the area’s old office parks can be reimagined; and to tie the project to the city’s stormwater management plan.

Walkability/Connectivity

Designed with walkability in mind, the site has pedestrian friendly streets, green public spaces to lounge and play, everyday conveniences, and shopping/dining options. As is often the case with installation projects within a busy urban area, pedestrian and vehicular traffic on the site had to be managed daily. Additional considerations were made due to the use of a crane throughout the project’s duration.

Visual connectivity was achieved with a streetscape that includes a consistent, contemporary, and low maintenance plant palette. Trees like red maples and elms, and perennials such as black-eyed Susan, purple cone flower, inkberry, reed and switchgrass were planted throughout the five-block area.

Three goals were identified as priorities for the project: to improve the busy urban area’s walkability and connectivity; to demonstrate how the area’s old office parks can be reimagined; and to tie the project to the city’s stormwater management plan.

Reimagining Old Office Parks

Sustainability was a large consideration in design and materials selection. To minimize urban heat island effects, we installed shade tree canopies (90 large caliper), glavel (or foam glass gravel — a recycled, lightweight, and insulating green roof aggregate), as well as a vegetated greenroof. “Cool building” products, including a natural stone veneer with a high solar reflective index (SRI), were used on walls and benches in the rooftop area.

To create a more sustainable landscape, special focus was given to preserving water resources, sourcing local vendors, and using both native and adaptive plant material.

Stormwater

The site needed to adhere to Fairfax County’s Environmental Sustainability Committee requirements. To mitigate and manage stormwater runoff, we installed 17 bioretention planters around the project’s perimeter. The granite edges, created using shop drawings and manufactured in China, had a three-month lead time and experienced a supply chain delay due to COVID. Installed with indigenous vegetation and absorptive soils, these features enable stormwater to be slowed down, absorbed, and filtered before entering natural waterways.

Meeting Multiple Challenges

1. Scheduling & Safety

Detailed planning, scheduling and safety measures were required to ensure this urban job could be completed safely with minimal disruption to the area. With its location in the heart of Tysons Corner — an area with a high volume of bus, vehicle, and pedestrian traffic—safety and proper traffic control were essential. Deliveries required lift plans (for crane use) and a traffic control plan — presented to the general contractor — which included barricades, barrels, signs, and flaggers. Precautions were set up every morning and taken down every evening to reduce roadway and parking garage impact.

Throughout the project’s duration, two full-time Ruppert employees were dedicated to facilitating the delivery of the hundreds of truckloads of material that came to the site. This entailed scheduling, coordination, stopping traffic, navigating trucks into (and then out of) the jobsite and unloading materials.

2. The Timeline

Adding to the challenges above was a compressed timeline that was not in our control. When we began our work, the project was already six to nine months behind schedule with a hard opening date that couldn’t be pushed.

We performed $1 million dollars’ worth of work every month for five months, utilizing over 11,000 labor hours. For reference, it would take a six-man crew nearly an entire year to work that many hours. Prior to November of 2020, we were utilizing approximately 50 team members who were operating in two shifts a day — from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. — for two months. Additionally, we weren’t able to work in a fluid manner and had to pivot constantly when areas became available for us to perform our tasks.

3. Multiple Levels

Since work was being performed on two elevations simultaneously, multiple mobilizations per task were required and careful planning with various other contractors on site. Crane use, in particular, required close coordination between multiple people including the crane operator, radio technician, receiver, and personnel offloading the material—as well as the general contractor who had to ensure there would be no interference by, or danger to other contractors.

There were only two points at ground level from which we could hoist material to the rooftop while still enabling all the ground level work to continue safely. The craning of all materials for the 11-story high Perch — which included concrete, stone veneer, 16,400 square feet of pavers, site furnishings, 135 large-caliper trees, 1,800 shrubs, 4,600 perennials, and 5400 square yards of artificial turf — was done in small bursts of time, as materials arrived. Materials were then transferred using pallet jacks, Georgia buggies, and wheelbarrows.

Twenty yellowwood trees lining the lawn area, had rootballs that weighed 1000 pounds! They were hoisted to The Perch using a crane and then moved on dollies and hydraulic lifts. Once installed, all trees were secured to ensure firm establishment of their roots and mitigate shifting due to windy conditions at the rooftop level.

With the skypark built over-structure, soil, drainage, and grade changes were extremely important. To that end, 16,300 cubic feet of polystyrene, 26,000+ square feet of drainage mat, 13,500 square feet of geomembrane liners, supersacks of 5,450 cubic yards of glavel, and 1,775 lineal feet of PVC piping were installed to reduce weight, mitigate runoff, insulate, and create a strong planting foundation.

Additional assistance was provided by a concrete pump truck and by a pressurized blower truck with a hopper and 4″ pipe. It was controlled by a single crew member on the roof — blowing over 2,300 cubic yards of special lightweight soil and 230 cubic yards of mulch to the Perch planting beds.

The Perch’s irrigation installation included 23 different zones with just over 25,000 lineal feet of various irrigation drip lines, fixed spray and rotors. All were carefully configured to keep plant material thriving in the lightweight soil mix, where upper deck temperatures are 10˚ to 15˚ warmer than street level.

Now completed, the Capital One Center is quickly transforming the skyline and cultural landscape of Fairfax County, VA, enabling all who visit to enjoy this greenspace while working to minimize the environmental impact on the city and its waterways.

4. COVID & Supply Chains

With COVID at its peak during the construction of this project, supply chain delays were prevalent. Granite curb and stair treads, quarried in North Africa and manufactured in China, required a three-month lead time and experienced some delays. Other materials, like the glavel aggregate, could only be procured in bulk from a manufacturer in Germany. It arrived via the Port of Baltimore — and after some early delays, started arriving quicker than it could be placed. With no substantial onsite storage, we secured offsite storage that was 20 miles away and would have smaller quantities of supersacks delivered once they could be placed.

Manpower challenges were also a major issue. While COVID caused the quarantine of several key personnel, there were also ongoing H2B visa challenges and increased competition for workers amongst all labor sectors causing work slowdowns and jobsite shutdowns. These labor challenges required a shifting/sharing of resources between multiple branches to bring the project to fruition on time and on budget.

5. Concrete Conditions

To pour concrete in The Perch, both the crane and a pump truck were required. But the water-cement ratio for this option caused some unwanted changes in the concrete’s color consistency (a challenge we communicated to the owner/developer prior to installation). Unfortunately, there were several areas we had to rip out and reinstall. In other areas, we were able to solve this challenge by applying a stain to the concrete.

Given the timeline, concrete and masonry finish work had to be completed in cold weather, which also provided challenges. To ensure the water, sand, and cement were above the requisite 40˚ required for curing, we scheduled deliveries later in the day so temperatures would be higher, and brought in tents, heaters, and warming blankets, while working in close coordination with site inspectors.

Scope Of Work

To bring the Capital One Center project to fruition, we ultimately installed a total of:

55,000 square feet of concrete flatwork (walkways, subslab, ADA ramps),
7,400 lineal feet of walls and stairs
5,000 lineal feet of curb/gutter
875 lineal feet of veneer on planters/walls;
27,400 square feet of pavers;
1,675 lineal feet of granite curb and stair treads;
6,450 square feet of caulking;

1,000 tons of stone;
18 tons of sand;
6,200 cubic yards of soil;
230 large-caliper trees;
3000 shrubs;
7,700 perennials;
an extensive irrigation system that covered all green areas on the ground and on the 11th floor park level;
and over $300,000 worth of site amenities.

National Aquarium Unveils Harbor Wetland

Now completed, the Capital One Center is quickly transforming the skyline and cultural landscape of Fairfax County, VA, enabling all who visit to enjoy this greenspace while working to minimize the environmental impact on the city and its waterways.

Ryan is a branch manager with Ruppert Landscape in the company’s Washington D.C. Landscape Construction Branch. He has been with the Ruppert organization for over eight years and holds a bachelor’s degree in horticulture from Virginia Tech. Ruppert Landscape, founded as a family and employee-owned business, is a leading provider of commercial landscaping services. Headquartered in Laytonsville, MD, Ruppert has 2,300 team members who serve customers from over 45 branches primarily throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Southeastern U.S. The company prides itself on its strong culture, commitment to its employees, attention to its customers, and giving back to the community. 

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