Landscape Ontario contains industry news, association news, industry issue features, profiles, event announcements, extension bulletins and more.
January | February 2025
MARK CULLEN, PAT LAMANNA AND TONY DIGIOVANNI PLANT FORESTS TO LAST FOREVER INVESTING IN TREES FOR LIFE
PAGE 20
OTTAWA DAY OF TRIBUTE PAGE 8
A TALK WITH MICHELLE FRANCIS PAGE 22
PLANTSCAPE MEMBER PROFILE PAGE 16
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 | 1
Brandt is now Canada’s Exclusive Morbark Dealer , delivering more powerful value for you and your business than ever before: MOR POWER TO YOU.
More Productivity Get comprehensive support at 56 Canada-wide locations, keeping your fleet up & running at all times.
More Profitability Watch your tree care business grow with a full lineup of high-quality Morbark products, backed by Brandt.
More Convenience Cut down on downtime with OEM-certified parts & service techs delivering 24/7/365 support, on-site or off.
brandt.ca/morbark 1-888-227-2638
Jan | Feb 2025 • Volume 43 - No. 01 HortTrades.com
Landscape Ontario’s mandate is to be the leader in representing, promoting and fostering a favourable environment for the advancement of the horticultural profession in Ontario.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Features
Departments 16 20 22
Member Profile: Plantscape Tony's Forever Forest Podcast Interview: Michelle Francis
Grow, learn and thrive together
4 8
Association News New Members Scholarship Profile Volunteer Profile Professional News Columns
A s we step into a new year, there’s an energy in the air — a sense of possibility that reminds us why we’re in this incredible profession. Growth is at the heart of what we do, not just in the landscapes we create, but in the way we approach our business, our teams and ourselves. This past year brought its share of challenges and with those challenges came lessons. Some of those lessons were tough, but they shaped us, strengthened us and prepared us for what’s next. Growth often comes from the moments that stretch us the most. When we share what we’ve learned with one another, we create something even more powerful — a community that is stronger together. Learning is a journey we’re all on and none of us needs to travel it alone. The beauty of being a part of this incredible organization is the support we find in each other. When we share our experiences — whether it’s a hard-earned success or a lesson learned from failure — we lighten the load for everyone. And as we watch out for one another, offering a helping hand when someone stumbles, we remind ourselves of the power of unity. As we look ahead, let’s commit to facing this year with positivity, collaboration and purpose. We have an incredible network of support within Landscape Ontario — fellow members, partners and a wealth of resources. Together, we can tackle anything. Whether it’s finding innovative solutions, developing our teams or leaning on each other for advice and encouragement, we have everything we need to succeed. I want you to know that I’m here to help. If there’s ever a way I can be of service, whether you’re looking for guidance, a sounding board or just someone to listen, please don’t hesitate to reach out. This is our opportunity to take the lessons we’ve learned and share them openly to build a future we can all be proud of. Let’s rise together, support each other and make this year one of growth, resilience and success for us all. We are stronger together! Here’s to a fantastic year ahead.
10 12 25 27
2024 Foundation Report
14
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President - Ed Hansen Past President - Lindsay Drake Nightingale Vice President - Lindsey Ross Second Vice President - Jeff Olsen Treasurer - Pam Cook
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Department - Landscape Ontario 7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 Canada Phone: 905-875-1805 ISSN 1928-9553 Publications Mail Agreement No. PM40013519 Views expressed are those of the writer concerned. Landscape Ontario assumes no responsibility for the validity or correctness of any opinions or references made by the author. Copyright 2025, reproduction or the use of whole or any part of the contents without written permission is prohibited. Published 6x per year. Rates and deadlines are available on request. Subscription price: $43.51 per year (HST included). For subscription and address changes, please email subscriptions@landscapeontario.com COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE Gerald Boot CLM, Vanessa McQuade, Lindsay Drake Nightingale, Jeremy Feenstra, Mark Fisher, Hank Gelderman COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT Communications Director - Penny Tantakis Editor - Robert Ellidge Creative Director - Mike Wasilewski Managing Editor, Multimedia - Karina Sinclair Proofreader - Julia Harmsworth Graphic Design Associate - Aisha Shaikh Account Manager - Greg Sumsion Account Manager - Liz Lant Digital Marketing Specialist - Laura Fox Communications Coordinator - Angela Lindsay Accountant - Joe Sabatino Staff contact info: HortTrades.com/contact
Ed Hansen LO President ed@eandlconsulting.ca
Please recycle your magazine and poly bag after reading.
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 | 3
ASSOCIATION NEWS
Toward belonging Building a diverse and healthy profession By David Milne Landscape Ontario DIB Committee Co-chair
way for our trade to move forward, but we still have quite a distance to travel. Monocultures have proven to be unhealthy and unsustainable. The most productive and sustainable ecosystems are those with the greatest diversity. Just look at a healthy coral reef system, a rainforest or the very landscapes we design, install and maintain. The number of different species existing together is incredible, and together they form a community that thrives. Recent research shows us that a healthy, productive soil is a profoundly diverse ecosystem with literally thousands of different organisms. This is the very foundation on which everything else we do flourishes. Small or large, both ecosystems and our businesses benefit when there is diversity.
Cultural historian Thomas Berry said, “The greater the diversity, the greater the perfection.” If we embraced this idea, we might solve some key issues facing the landscape profession today. The landscape and horticultural trades have long struggled with finding and retaining staff. There are several reasons for this, but a significant one is that many in our society do not see themselves as being represented. They don’t see a place on our crews where they feel they belong. This is a hurdle when trying to attract new talent into our trade. To continue to meet the needs of our clients and raise the perception of our profession, we need to create an environment that is inclusive, where individuals from all walks of life feel respected and treated
as equals. Otherwise, we’re missing out on a gold mine of skills, perspectives and talents. Addressing this has never been more important for our industry to move forward and be seen as professional. A few years ago, my sister attended the Landscape Ontario (LO) Congress trade show as she has a keen interest in gardening. Afterwards, she said, as a woman, she did not feel included. She felt like a foreigner in a male-dominated space. Similarly, Rohan Harrison, an LO provincial board member, has shared that, as a person of colour, there was a time when he did not see himself reflected in LO messaging. When I walk the floor at Congress now, I am pleased to see the makeup of attendees has become more diverse. Embracing this diversity is the only
4 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
With Accelerate , say bye to ghost clock-ins Call us strict but... With Accelerate , say bye to ghost clock-ins Call us strict but... The LO provincial board of directors and staff are committed to creating a profession that is inclusive, diverse and equitable. You might notice the images used in LO’s website, publications and social media now better reflect the it means to be equitable, diverse and inclusive together, and make space for those who want to be part of the quest for a greener tomorrow. If you are interested in joining the DIB Committee, please don’t hesitate to reach out:
organization that is, first and foremost (in my opinion), inclusive, while also promoting diversity and equity. The DIB Committee will host a series of lunch and learn sessions over the upcoming year which will aim to educate, support and offer ways to help us all achieve these goals. We plan to kick off these sessions with a full-day hybrid event with guest speakers and panel discussions, so expect to hear more about this in the coming months. We know that this cannot be done without support from membership, so we hope you’ll be able to join us at these events. Let’s explore what
Geofence based clock-ins Geofence based clock-ins diversity of our society in which we live and work. We’re working on eliminating exclusionary and colonial language in our messaging as we become aware of it. And a few years ago, we launched LO’s Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (DIB) Committee, which brings together both members and staff. Together, we are navigating a path toward becoming an
Crew App Crew App DAVID MILNE dmilne@landscapeontario.com; KARINA SINCLAIR ksinclair@landscapeontario.com TERRY CHILDS terry.childs@natureswaylandscaping.net
Live Overtime Alerts Live Overtime Alerts
Progress Tracking Progress Tracking
BUY DIRECT FROM THE GROWER
CLOSEST SOD FARM TO THE CITY | 10378 Highway 48 in Markham
Next Day Delivery Anywhere in the GTA
Scan to get a free pilot Scan to get a free pilot Switch to Accelerate to bring discipline in your operations THE CHOICE IS SIMPLE Switch to Accelerate to bring discipline in your operations THE CHOICE IS SIMPLE
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 | 5
Landscape Ontario showcases green careers at events across the province
Landscape Ontario member Jon Agg speaks with students at one of the many Level Up! Skilled Trades Fairs held across the province.
impactful backdrop and posters that visually told the story of the landscape design and construction process. "I would show [the students] the landscape drawing prepared by Wentworth Landscapes, then say the large picture in the backdrop of the Landscape Ontario booth was the final product,” Richard Rogers said. “Almost every student said the exact same thing — ‘Wow!’" The 10 career fairs saw over 28,000 students and hundreds of teachers and guidance counselors attend. Many meaningful connections were made. Students are interested in careers that will make an impact and are excited to learn that landscape professionals have a positive influence on the environment, the economy and the health and wellness of our communities every day by creating and maintaining green spaces and green infrastructure. "It was really encouraging to see how many young people expressed an interest in working in the trades and specifically the horticulture industry," said Shawn Collins of Postcard Perfect. Landscape Ontario will continue to support youth in understanding the valuable career opportunities the landscape horticulture industry has to offer.
Living Green Landscaping; Terry Childs, Nature’s Way Landscaping; Richard Rogers; Shawn Collins, Postcard Perfect; Ben Strapper, Wild Ridge Landscapes; Jon Agg, David McLaughlin, Pristine Property Maintenance; Rob Havery, R Havery Landscape & Custom Horticulture Contracting; Sarah Beckon, Allweather Landscape Co.; Liana Desmaris, John Nowak, Amber Watson, Plantscape Windsor; Jason Milling, Ying (Mable) Wang, Charlie Bongtiwan, St. Clair College; Heather Jerrard, My Landscape Artist; Riley Irwin, Hillen Nursery; Carolynn Jongeneelen, Stephanie Vandendriessche, Baseline Nurseries and Garden Centre; Kristi Delima, Snips Landscapes; Diana Paolucci, apprentice with the City of Vaughan. We are also grateful to the companies who supplied plant material that helped bring our booth to life and supported the Plant ID Challenge: Hillen Nursery, Plantscape Windsor, Sheridan Nurseries (Whitby), Ritchie Feed and Seed. Thank you to Merit Ontario for loaning us their virtual reality headset for students to learn about personal protective equipment and jobsite rules. Finally, our gratitude goes to Wentworth Landscapes for sharing renderings and photos of an incredible Fusion Landscape project that enabled us to create an
The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLTSD) offered Level Up! Skilled Trade Fairs for grade seven to 12 students to provide them with an opportunity to explore careers in the skilled trades. This fall, Landscape Ontario (LO) participated in the events held in Coburg, Barrie, Kitchener, Cornwall, Ottawa, Oshawa, Windsor, London, Niagara Falls and Mississauga to showcase careers in landscape horticulture. Staff and member volunteers connected with students to share the many different pathways available in the industry (university, college, apprenticeship, direct to workforce), and showcased the 11 sectors our industry represents. The LO display included hands-on activities that provided students a glimpse into several different careers within the industry. LO would like to thank the volunteers who devoted their time to speak with students face-to-face, share their experiences, answer questions, explain what employers are looking for and why they love working in this industry: Peter Guinane, Oriole Landscaping; Lindsey Ross, Kent Merkley, Tyson Merkley,
6 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
Members donate toys for kids Santa Claus made a scheduled stop at Landscape Ontario’s home office in Milton, Ont., on Dec. 10. Accompanied by Toronto Chapter vice president Wendy Ladd of Jim Pattison Lease, the duo picked up toys donated by members and staff for the Marner Assist Foundation’s Toy Drive and Fundraiser that supports thousands of children during the holiday season. Ladd helped organize several drop off locations across the province, including the one at LO.
Wendy Ladd arrived with Santa to help collect the donated toys.
Ad Size 7.125 x 6.5
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 | 7
TRIBUTE DAY OF
Ottawa Chapter Day of Tribute celebrates 20 years of honouring heroes
Organizers of the Ottawa Chapter’s 20th annual Day of Tribute welcomed about 50 eager volunteers as the sun rose over Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa, Ont. on Oct. 25, 2024. The perfect fall day provided ideal conditions for the crew to enhance the beauty of the grounds prior to Remembrance Day ceremonies. After a heartfelt thank-you from Nicolas McCarthy, director of marketing and communications for Beechwood Cemetery, followed by a few words from Thomas Hoyle, president of the Ottawa Chapter, volunteers set out with a sense of purpose and their landscape maintenance tools and equipment to transform the grounds. This year, the chapter had the honour of welcoming several special guests, including Chris Lemke, founder of the event, and Owen Sparey from the Commonwealth War Graves. A moment of silence was held to pay tribute to a fallen giant of the industry,
WINDSOR
TORONTO
+22
+1
GEORGIAN LAKELANDS
MUSKOKA +6
+7
GOLDEN HORSESHOE
DURHAM
+3
+4
LANDSCAPE ONTARIO WE L C OME S OUR NEWEST MEMBERS
OTTAWA
+2
UPPER CANADA +2
LONDON
+5
WATERLOO
+5
SEE ALL THE NEW MEMBERS IN YOUR CHAPTER AT HORTTRADES.COM/NEW-MEMBERS-DECEMBER-2024
8 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
enduring spirit of unity that transcends time and circumstance.” Organizers would like to recognize the selfless support of volunteers and the many sponsors below who helped to make this event a success: Turf Care Products, Geosynthetic Systems, Beechwood Cemetery, Sipan Tires and Rims, Nutri- Lawn, Manderley, Peter Knippel Garden Centre and Central Turf & Irrigation Supply.
proud retiree of the Canadian Army, I find it truly inspiring and comforting to witness the profound support and compassion that this chapter extends to its fellow Canadians, both those who are currently with us and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The sense of community and camaraderie displayed here serves as a powerful reminder of the bonds we share and the
Steve Neumann — an ardent supporter of the event, horticultural educator and the chapter’s past president. Volunteers were given a 20th anniversary Day of Tribute shirt donated by Turf Care Products that symbolized the unity and commitment of Ottawa members to honour their heroes. Former warrant officer and Day of Tribute chair Pete Campbell reflected, “As a
2025 GM SIERRA 2500 AT4 HD
CONTACT OUR COMMERCIAL ACCOUNT MANAGER STEVE DOWNEY
$ 7,500 RECEIVE UP TO CNLA DISCOUNT + TRUCK BONUS ON SELECT 2025 HDs OVER 50 HDs IN STOCK 905-638-8599 | WALLACECHEV.COM | 801 MAIN ST E, MILTON $ 2,500 OUR EXCLUSIVE WALLACE BONUS
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 | 9
VOLUNTEER PROFILE Sarah Beckon wants you to join the grounds management sector group By Julia Harmsworth
After activities returned to normal, the chair needed support, so Beckon stepped up. Now, as chairperson of the group, Beckon said Ground Management is “really in that re-engagement process.” When it returned in 2023, she was one of only two members; now there are eight. Beckon wants to get the message out: “Hey, we’re back, and we really want to have representation throughout all regions.” The group is focused on increasing its numbers and promoting discussion on issues critical to the sector, like Toronto’s potential ban on two-stroke engines — which Beckon supports, but believes warrants serious consideration of the transition process to battery. A panel
outside of Auckland, New Zealand — which Beckon said proves a horticultural career can take you anywhere — she moved to Toronto and started at Allweather Landscape Co., where she’s been for 17 years. Allweather is very involved with LO. The company sponsors apprentices, sends their employees to LO seminars, and Beckon’s boss, owner Phil Charal, is a LO past president. Beckon had been going to Congress since her co-op days, but Allweather introduced her to the many other opportunities LO has to offer. Beckon joined the Grounds Management Sector Group a few years before COVID-19. Unsurprisingly, the pandemic paused the group’s operations.
Sarah Beckon, Grounds Management Sector Group representative to the Landscape Ontario (LO) provincial board of directors, is working hard to get Grounds Management off the ground. Beckon’s horticulture journey began with her high school co-op at her local Parks and Recreation department. “Right from there, [I] fell in love with being outdoors, and growing, and working in the parks and planting — all of it,” she said. “I loved horticulture and I had a really great mentor who directed me to go into the Niagara Parks Commission, and really, really helped me along.” After graduating and working for the Parks and Recreation department just
Tillsonburg, ON
Specializing in field grown and potted cedars along with perennials, trees and shrubs of both deciduous and evergreen varieties.
519-688-0437 info@pottersroadnursery.com
PottersRoadNursery.com
10 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
In addition to promoting best practices, Beckon believes investing in professional development at all levels is key to elevating the trades. She’s hired people who have completed the GROW program, which she believes “shines a light on this industry.” Like all Allweather managers, Beckon has also completed the GROW Employers of Choice program. “It gives managers a common vocabulary,” she said of the program. “It gets everybody aware of what’s happening out there in the workforce. It was super beneficial for the whole team to get on board so that we’re all speaking the same language, from the top to the bottom.” Beckon’s passion for boosting professionalism — and her desire to build up the Grounds Management Sector Group — brought her to the LO provincial board of directors. She’s excited about the opportunity to stay informed, share her passion for plants, continue to advocate for best practices and increase her dosage of her favourite thing about LO: the connection. “You sit at a table with eight other people and you come away with seven new ideas,” she said. “It’s a good feeling to be a part of something bigger than yourself.”
discussion held last August included discussions on the ban’s implications for both landscape companies and clients. Grounds Management is also looking to create short, digestible demonstration videos on everything from how to get rid of box tree moth, to how to plant a tree, to how to prune different types of roses, that companies can share with their crews and apprentices. “We’ve got a really engaged group that feels strongly about getting out the right message,” Beckon said. “We’re looking to support the training for companies in everyday practice.” Beckon is passionate about this message: she said there’s mountains of content out there offering varying horticultural methods, but she wants to make sure everyone has the resources to learn how to do things the right way. This, she said, will promote professionalism in the trade. “I really, really, feel strongly about promoting professionalism in this industry and raising that level up. If Landscape Ontario can be the go-to place for correct [practices] so we can avoid things like mulch volcanoes… I really want to make an impact or a dent in that.”
Sarah Beckon
WHOLESALE, LANDSCAPE SUPPLY YARD
PLEASE SEND ALL YOUR LANDSCAPE QUOTES DIRECTLY TO JR. jr@gardencentre.com | C: 416-209-8758
GROWING QUALITY NURSERY STOCK SINCE 1948 Caliper trees, evergreens, shrubs & perennials
humbernurseries.com 14905 Bramalea Road, Caledon, ON L7C 2R5
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 | 11
SCHOLARSHIP PROFILE
Kendra Motz aims to foster well-being and curiosity with others
Who are your role models in the landscape profession?
While attending the Horticulture Technician Apprenticeship program at Humber College in Toronto, Ont., Kendra Motz was awarded a $600 Apprenticeship Scholarship from the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation (Foundation). The Foundation offers only five scholarships a year to students in a horticulture apprenticeship program at an accredited college or university. To be considered, students must submit a two- page essay on why they wish to enter the horticultural industry, including their interests and experience. Motz heard about the scholarship program thanks to a presentation at the conclusion of her first semester. She also received a $2,000 scholarship from the Cullen Family Scholarship program in 2024. Motz also holds an Honours Bachelor Degree in Criminology and Childhood Studies. “My interest lies in developing innovative programming that can creatively engage youth in the horticulture industry,” Motz said. “I am an avid houseplant parent which is where my interests first began.” What prompted you to pursue a career in horticulture? My introduction to horticulture was unexpected: a summer job posting for a nursery near me. I had little to no horticulture knowledge or experience but thought a summer outdoors was what I needed to clear my head. However, instead of clearing my mind, I found myself consumed with curiosity and an abundance of plant-related facts. I found myself spending more time at the nursery than at home, falling in love with not only my job, but a world of nature I never knew existed.
What are the next steps for you?
I am in the process of earning my Landscape Horticulturist Red Seal. I have already completed my hours and received my certificate of apprenticeship, but will be obtaining my Red Seal this upcoming off season. In combination with my previous education, I hope to further youth-centred programming at my current workplace. The implementation of therapeutic horticulture practices can foster positive emotional well-being, strong social skills and sensory stimulation. In the long term, I aim to expand these opportunities on a broader scale and introduce them in previously inaccessible spaces.
My foremost role models within this industry are those with whom I collaborate. Whether at school or in the workplace, I am surrounded by a wealth of knowledge from individuals who are deeply passionate about the profession. These are the people who inspire me to learn and broaden my skill set, and they are invaluable to my growth and development. How did winning a scholarship make a difference in your life? When I had initially received the congratulatory letter in the mail, I was overcome with excitement. The news of my selection as a recipient was a testament to the diligence and dedication that I had committed toward my academic pursuits. I live away from home while attending school, and the scholarship has been an immense help in alleviating financial strain. It has enabled me to better allocate my financial resources toward other needs, thereby allowing me to focus on my academic goals with greater ease.
What are the benefits to a career in this field?
I have never envisioned myself as someone who would spend their days sitting behind a desk, staring at a computer screen. Rather, I believe that one's passion or hobby should develop into a career. Earning a living while pursuing something that one truly enjoys is vital for overall contentment. For me, immersing my hands in the soil and breathing in the fresh outdoor air is the most therapeutic and fulfilling activity I can conceive. I enjoy interacting with others and sharing my vast knowledge of horticulture with the aim of inspiring their interest in the field.
The Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation is a charitable organization whose mandate is to “ensure a healthy future for the horticulture industry.” To learn more about the many scholarships available under the Foundation and Cullen Family Scholarship Program, please visit ohtf.ca/scholarships.
12 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 | 13
FOUNDATION AWARDS OVER $ 80,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS TO ONTARIO STUDENTS
Each year, the Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation (Foundation) awards a variety of scholarships to Ontario students pursuing a career in landscape and horticulture. Scholarships are available to registered apprentices and students who reside in Ontario and are enrolled in accredited post- secondary institutions. Providing scholarships is particularly close to
the hearts of Foundation supporters, who point with pride to the many recipients who are now successful industry members. Each year, applications and nominations are accepted online until June 30 via the Foundation website at OHTF.ca. This year, the Foundation distributed 56 scholarships totalling $85,300 to future leaders of the landscape and horticulture profession.
2024 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
Apprenticeship ($600) Vanessa Costa, Humber College Jack Greer, Loyalist College Jiya Ramkrishna Khode, Loyalist College Dayna Menifee, Algonquin College Abhishek Mohan, Niagara College
Post-Secondary ($1,000) Elliott Alkemade Young, Niagara Parks School of Horticulture Egemen Bulut, Niagara College Taylor Chamberlain, Humber College Nicole DeJager, Niagara College Joshua Fancsali, Fanshawe College Cassidy Friske, University of Guelph Susan Gurung, Niagara College Kimia Jouyandeh, University of Guelph Benjamin Joy, Niagara Parks School of Horticulture Chengcheng Li , Fanshawe College Matthew Lundstrom, University of Guelph Niloufar Mohsenivfa, University of Guelph Ian Murphy, University of Guelph Carol Pietka, University of Guelph Sierra Rivait, St. Clair College Ramon Salustiano Salvador, De La Salle College of Saint Benilde Luis Santini, Algonquin College Evan Siberry, Fanshawe College Vineet Singh , St. Clair College Mollie Slemon, University of Guelph Jessica Solis Gonzalez, Fanshawe College Yichen Zhang, Algonquin College Tony DiGiovanni Scholarship ($1,000) Emma Pothion, University of Guelph Ho Ying Tang, Humber College
Cullen Family Scholarship Program Abigail Stanke, Algonquin College ($3,000) Anastasia Hromin, Ridgetown College ($3,000) Anika Pask, Humber College ($3,000) Bradley Gibbons, Apprenticeship any school ( $2,000)
Matt Preston, Loyalist college Junzhu Shi, Humber College
Caroline Szukalo Benitez, Ridgetown College ($3,000) Hareem Haider,
Casey van Maris Scholarship ($1,000) Eden Dixon, Durham College
Niagara Parks Commission ( $3,000) Katja Spoerri, Niagara College ($3,000) Kendra Motz, Apprenticeship any school ( $2,000) Lei Liu, Seneca College ($3,000) Leticia Tojer, Fanshawe College ($3,000) Lindsay Taylor, University of Guelph ($3,000) Loraine Price, Durham College ($3,000) Marilou Statford, Apprenticeship any school ( $3,000) Myles Vieira, Apprenticeship any school ($2,000) Ryan McDonald, Apprenticeship any school ($2,000) Ryly Allers, Needs-Based Scholarship ($5,000) Sanam Sajjad, Niagara Parks Commission ($3,000) Cheyenne Wyght, Apprenticeship any school ($2000)
College and University ($1,000)
Nathan DiLaudo, University of Guelph Claire Jacklin, University of Guelph
Dan Clost Scholarship ($1,000) Aaron McCormick, University of Guelph Peter Olsen Scholarship ($650) Cadet Hassan, Fanshawe College Nicole Nwokolo, Toronto Metropolitan University Postgraduate ($1,000) Prescilla Chan, Toronto Metropolitan University
14 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
FOUNDATION FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
FUND BALANCES
YEAR END
YEAR END
YEAR END
YEAR END
AUG. 31, 2024
AUG. 31, 2023
AUG. 31, 2024
AUG. 31, 2023
ASSETS (CURRENT)
Bank
$240,061 $13,690 $253,751
$94,129 $34,649 $128,778
General Fund
$4,626
($24,367)
Accounts Receivable
Dunington-Grubb/Sheridan Nurseries Research Fund
$255,079 $448,233
$224,240 $383,283 $73,121 $85,555 $29,383 $178,486 $197,757 $64,612
LONG TERM Investments
$1,727,244
$1,704,225
Growers’ Group Research Fund
Investment-Vineland Consortium Accrued Interest Receivable
$57,711 $23,049
$57,711 $24,661
Ottawa Chapter Val Kirshner Scholarship Fund $86,053
Scholarship Fund
$99,752 $33,278 $208,732 $229,875 $75,560 $1,085 $12,182 $67,239 $14,336 $31,103 $11,462 ($2,542) $25,943 $5,387 $36,897 $13,015 $10,847 $9,763 $24,735
$1,808,004 $2,061,755
$1,786,598 $1,915,375
TOTAL ASSETS
Casey Van Maris Scholarship Fund IPM Symposium Research Fund Tony DiGiovanni Scholarship Fund John/Ruth Wright Scholarship Fund Horst Dickert Scholarship Fund
LIABILITIES (CURRENT) Accounts Payable & Accrued Charges
$88,950
$54,163
ACCUMULATED FUND BALANCES Fund Balances-Regular Funds Fund Balances-Special Projects
$0
$1,815,727 $157,078 $1,972,805
$1,513,714 $347,498 $1,861,212
JT Somerville Fund
$10,417 $288,911 $12,258 $26,596 $9,801 ($1,246) $22,184 $6,772 $31,550 $11,129
Highway of Heroes (TFL) Fund Unilock/Designers Group Fund
TOTAL LIABILITIES/FUNDS
$2,061,755
$1,915,375
Hensbergen/Degroot Scholarship Fund Russel/Karen Loney Scholarship Fund Cullen Family Scholarship Fund Robert/Ruby Allen Scholarship Fund
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS & FUND BALANCES
YEAR END
YEAR END
1 Bench 1 Tree Fund
AUG. 31, 2024
AUG. 31, 2023
REVENUES Interest/Gains (Losses) Miscellaneous Research Grants Donations/Funding TOTAL REVENUE
Peter Olsen Scholarship Fund
$301,406
($193,312)
OJ Muller Memorial Scholarship Fund Steve Neumann Scholarship Fund Upper Canada Chapter Scholarship Fund
$0 $0
$0 $0
$0 $0 $0
$222,967 $524,373
$134,834 ($58,478)
Welcome Forest Fund
Neil Vanderkruk Innovation & Scholarship Fund $80,479
$68,818 $45,530 $51,815 $2,892 $62,715
EXPENSES Administration Fees/Expenses Disbursed as Research Grants Event/Sponsorship Expenses Disbursed as Scholarships
$22,976
$137,217 $69,927 $795,881 $57,900
Hortprotect Research Fund
$53,245 $59,717 $3,383 $73,343
$0
Cecil Delworth Fund
$305,604 $84,200 $412,780
Don Salivan Memorial Scholarship Fund Waterloo Chapter Scholarship Fund
TOTAL EXPENSES
$1,060,925
TOTAL FUND BALANCES
$1,972,805
$1,861,212
($1,119,404 $2,980,616 $1,861,212
EXCESS OF REVENUE OVER EXPENSES
$111,593
FUND BALANCES, BEGINNING OF YEAR $1,861,212
FUND BALANCES, YEAR END
$1,972,805
For information on the Foundation, including scholarship applications, supported research programs or to donate, visit OHTF.ca.
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 | 15
Member Profile
Member Pro le
WINDSOR'S Plantsca e A duty to a legacy
By Julia Harmsworth N umbers and training are the key to the success of Plantscape, a full-service landscape design and maintenance company serving Windsor, Chatham/Kent and Sarnia, Ont. It began — as the name suggests — with plantscaping: transforming indoor spaces with live tropical plants. Since its founding in 1976, the company has grown to provide outdoor maintenance, landscape design and build, and snow and ice management services. Plantscaping now accounts for less than one per cent of the company’s revenue, but general manager Liana Desmarais isn’t ready to give up on it yet. “I’m still trying to breathe some life into it,” she explained, “because of the [company’s] name, I have a hard time letting it go. I think there’s still an opportunity there.” This past spring, Desmarais reached out to one of Plantscape’s oldest clients with an ambitious idea. Both Plantscape and the client will be celebrating anniversaries in 2026 (50 and 60 years respectively) and Desmarais suggested a joint marketing effort to enliven the client’s building and Plantscape’s plantscaping division. The client agreed and the plants were installed in September. Desmarais hopes the soon-to-bloom, high-traffic space will bring some awareness to the benefits of live plants in indoor spaces, and keep her father’s legacy afloat.
Continued >
16 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 | 17
A FIERCE ADVOCATE FOR TRAINING Desmarais took over the company from her father, Victor, in 2016 and despite growing up as the daughter of a landscaper, this was never the plan. Desmarais went to school for financial analysis and planning, then worked at RBC for 12 years before her dad passed the baton unexpectedly. “He was 67 years old, and it was Christmastime. He was just like, ‘Okay, I don’t want to do the day-to-day anymore, so I need you to quit your job and come run the company. It’s your turn, kid.’ It was a pretty crazy adventure,” Desmarais explained. Her professional background makes Desmarais somewhat unconventional. She’s brought lessons learned in banking to Plantscape: she knows how to negotiate pricing and trim excess, and aims to reduce costs by five to 10 per cent each year. For a recent project, the company received estimates for plant material from three different nurseries. Desmarais sent a spreadsheet to each company and asked them to either match or beat the others’ offers. In the end, she secured $31,000 in savings. “My staff would tell you that everything has to add up when it comes to Liana, because the numbers are the numbers,” Desmarais said. “That’s probably the biggest
piece: I can do analysis to crunch numbers upside down and sideways.” Once she was on board, Desmarais was confident in her abilities to run a business, but she lacked certain technical skills required to run a landscaping business. “Where I didn’t feel confident was like, how long do you have to water sod after you lay it down? What are the successful ways to plant a tree?” she said. She leaned into Landscape Ontario to supplement her business expertise with horticultural know-how. After becoming a member of the trade association in 2016, she attended informative sessions at the Congress Conference and signed up for every professional development course available. Desmarais also participated in Landscape Ontario’s GROW Employers of Choice program, and continues to take courses as they become available. She encourages the same ethos in her staff. Most of Plantscape’s 31 employees have participated in the GROW program, and four are working toward completing the Apprenticeship Program. As a fierce advocate for formal training, Desmarais spoke at length about the many benefits of apprenticeship as part of her employee recruitment and retention strategy in an episode of the Landscape
18 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
Desmarais hopes to break ground in the near future. She’s working with Landscape Ontario on the details, and has three acres carved out of the 26 her company bought recently — another symbol of its growth. Plantscape earned $1.1 million in revenue in 2016 when Desmarais took over and she expects to surpass three million this year. Only one employee returned in 2016, but 16 came back this year. Desmarais believes every business is built differently, but having a business background has been an advantage for her. "I have to believe what I'm doing is working. Those are the two measures for me: do the staff enjoy working here, do they come back, and are we growing as a company? And the answers to both of those is yes,” she said. Plantscape won their first Landscape Ontario Award of Excellence in 2021 in the Commercial Construction category. This was meaningful for Desmarais as it represented the hard work and tenacity she’s put into upholding her dad’s legacy. She submitted two projects for consideration this year. “2021 was our 45th anniversary, and we dedicated the award to my dad and his 45 years of service,” Desmarais explained. “That was pretty cool.”
Ontario podcast that aired in June 2023. She understands you can’t hold people accountable for mistakes without setting clear expectations. She facilitates formal training for her crews to encourage skill development and establish best practices. Plus, when people know what they’re doing, not only are they happier, but the company gets better projects and becomes more profitable. For Desmarais, it’s all about setting and fulfilling clear goals: “It’s an intentional In true financial planner style, Desmarais just finished a 10-year business plan for Plantscape. A key part of this plan — and a dream for Desmarais — is to construct a new building in the off-season that will act as a training centre to offer more programs like GROW. “That is my passion project that come hell or high water I will get done,” she said. “I just think it would be great to host the training down here in Windsor, so that my staff or fellow members from Southwestern Ontario don’t have to travel all the way up to Milton in a snowstorm and battle the [Highway] 401. It would be such a huge win for this area.” business for me. This is my dad’s legacy.” A TRAINING FACILITY FOR WINDSOR
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 | 19
Tony’s Forever Forest
By Mark Cullen President and Co-founder, Trees for Life
T rees for Life has had quite the run since first launching back in 2015, when the very first tree was planted as part of the Highway of Heroes Tree Campaign. In the infancy of Trees for Life, a meeting brought together several not-for-profit organizations dedicated to planting trees in the urban environment. The purpose of the meeting was to answer the question, “What can we do together that we cannot accomplish by working alone?” One of the people at that first meeting was then Landscape Ontario (LO) Executive Director Tony DiGiovanni. After several meetings over the course of a year, Tony
historic Fort York in downtown Toronto in November 2022, with the Right Honourable David Johnston, the former Governor General of Canada. Today, Trees for Life is the “second chapter” of a commitment that Tony as well as our board and staff have made to maximize urban tree planting in Canada. In total we have now raised over $18 million and supported the planting of over 3.3 million trees across Canada, including the Highway of Heroes trees. These achievements would not have been possible without the support that Trees for Life receives from LO and its members. And that support was the direct result of
raised his hand with an idea that would spark a torrent of activity. “Landscape Ontario had been involved in a project that reforested the Veterans Memorial Parkway in London, Ontario,” he said. “Why don’t we do the same and reforest the Highway of Heroes along the 401?” The idea sounded simple enough: after successfully planting trees on the 17 km stretch in London, how difficult could it be to reforest the Highway of Heroes? Suffice it to say there were struggles, but we raised $10 million for the campaign and attracted 4,500 individual Canadian donors and 4,000 volunteer tree planters. We planted our last tree at
20 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
2024, just under two months after Tony celebrated his 70th birthday, we teamed up with Juel Group and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority to plant a grove of 70 trees in Tony’s honour. Tony, his family and a full school bus of children helped plant the trees that now stand as Tony’s Forever Forest. Trees for Life continues to plant trees for heroes of all kinds, but in this instance, trees were planted for a true hero, Tony DiGiovanni — a founding director of Trees for Life, a passionate volunteer, a champion of trees and a friend to all. To learn more about Trees for Life, please visit treesforlife.ca.
year of support from Juel Group to provide people power for volunteer planting days. This past spring, BTN Nurseries donated over $100,000 worth of trees. To say Trees for Life would not be where it is without LO would be an understatement. And to say Trees for Life would not have that relationship with LO without Tony DiGiovanni would be an even bigger understatement. Trees for Life owes a lot of its success to Tony. This is why, when Tony’s family approached Trees for Life to help create “Tony’s Forever Forest” (a name chosen by his granddaughter), it was as easy a “yes” as there ever could be. So on Oct. 24,
Tony’s commitment to the cause of climate change and his belief in our mission. The close ties with LO and its membership have helped Trees for Life secure much needed tree stock and supplies at a time where demand has been unprecedented. Members have stepped up to provide substantial discounts for Trees for Life, stretching our donor dollars. Other LO members have donated their valuable time, trees, services and materials to support the mission of planting trees where Canadians live, work and play. Some members have even sponsored Trees for Life. Pat Lamanna pledged three
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 | 21
ACCIDENT ON PURPOSE WHEN FATE MAKES YOU A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH
Interview with Michelle Francis This interview originally aired on the Landscape Ontario podcast and has been edited for length and clarity.
O ne rainy fall afternoon, Michelle Francis’ life changed in the blink of an eye, forcing her to reevaluate her priorities. Francis has led a busy life as a CEO, HR law professional, social justice champion and mother, to name just a few. She is a nature enthusiast with extensive outdoor education training, and is also a graduate of Landscape Ontario’s GROW program. Through her connection with nature, she’s found healing and purpose — something she’s eager to share with others. Francis now educates people about the value of community gardens, and mentors youth to help build, install and maintain them for clients. In the colder months, Francis returns her attention to HR law consulting and advocacy efforts. Francis joined the Landscape Ontario Podcast to share her story about embracing life’s challenges with an open heart. She acknowledges that accidents have purpose, and the healing she experienced while spending time in gardens and nature compelled her to create opportunities for others to discover the transformative power of plants.
After decades of building a fast-paced corporate career, what brought you back to nature? A pivotal moment was a very eye-opening motor vehicle accident. I was sitting in a vehicle in traffic. I heard screeching from somewhere, and I looked up in the rearview mirror to see someone barreling at my vehicle. I had major issues at the top and bottom of my spine. There was no relief. And that started the journey of me reconciling with a whole lot of things. As someone who’s naturally active, not being able to do much was frustrating. But one thing I remember distinctly was the daily ritual in the garden. It became me versus my lack of mobility . Gardening gave me a sense of control. That year, I grew a really large garden, trying every seed I could get my hands on. It was about seeing potential — in the plants and in myself as I recovered. With my mobility impacted, I had to be mindful of where I went, how far I walked and what I wore. But in the garden,
This interview was adapted from an episode of the Landscape Ontario podcast, published on Dec. 2, 2024. To hear the whole interview, visit landscapeontario.com/podcast, or search for it on your favourite podcast app
THE
PODCAST
22 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
there were no restrictions. I could start and stop as I needed. If I struggled to get up from the ground, no one was there to witness my strategic moves to get back on my feet. I delved deeply into how being in nature — watching bees, slowing down — can be therapeutic. Slowing down isn’t something you do in the corporate world. There’s no such beast. I use the phrase, “the accident on purpose,” because the purpose was to reconnect me with myself and teach me to slow down. I’m a Virgo and a Type A personality. But at that point in my life, I was forced to move in slow motion and realize what’s really important in my life.
Do you feel like the universe had a reason for this?
At that moment, it felt like the universe was punishing me. But I do believe as I was moving through the process, it was on purpose. And one purpose was for me to learn about advocacy. We’re speaking about plants and nature, and at this moment, everyone’s on board. Many people would say, “Right on, I’m right there.” But my accident was in 2010 and, back then, growing things, landscaping, soil quality, herbs and anti-inflammatory foods were not on the radar. So yes, I think I was given an opportunity to hone some intuitive and speculative knowledge into something very viable. I could be seen as a trusted source when guiding people on what products they could grow and in what environment — even in small spaces. I’ve learned so many insightful tips and tools that, had I not gone through this experience, I would never have been aware of, to this degree. Now, soil and nature and having my hands on the ground — it’s the building blocks for everyone’s life. People maybe just don’t know it. I would hate for people to have accidents to realize how important their outdoor space is to them, whether it’s theirs or the community’s. Your broadened gardening knowledge gained during this experience has earned you some accolades. Tell me about some of the awards you’ve received thanks to your efforts to reconnect others to gardening. When my children were small, maybe a little socially awkward like myself, one of my ways of helping them was to consistently order soil and seeds and have the kids in the community grow plants. That’s how most of the people on my cul-de-sac started eating salads — because they were growing their own. In that regard, I’ve reconnected with growing a community garden and really enhanced my ability to grow food. I was recognized by my local city, the City of Pickering, which is quite well-known for its international sustainability status — now in its 12th year. I received an award for sustainability. I also received an award for energy efficiency because of the way I grow using a permaculture approach. I produce very little garbage that goes back into the community and landfills. Additionally, I received two awards from the Canadian Health Food Association during COVID: one for being a change agent and another for cultural diversity because I grow foods from around the world. At the start of COVID, I received a very prestigious award as one of the top 100 Black women entrepreneurs in Canada. Continued >
905.689.1749 |
Since 1991, Draglam Salt has been supporting Ontario with high-quality de-icing products, convenient locations and dedicated service, helping you weather the storm. YOUR PARTNER IN EARTH ESSENTIALS
Call your Account Manager today to secure your supply. 416.798.7050 1.888.907.SALT (7258)
DraglamSalt.com
JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2025 | 23
Designed to save you time. CLIENT: DATE: DESIGNER(S): COMPASS CREATIVE STUDIO INC 201-1040 south service rd stoney creek, on L8E 6G3 www.compasscreative.ca Braun Group September 2018 Nick Tenhage
I love the idea that, in your 50s, your story is not done. You’re still growing — in every sense of the word. Now that you’ve accomplished all this, what’s next? I sit on two hospital boards: the Ontario Health Teams for Durham Region and Scarborough, Toronto. One of my key focuses is ensuring that new health facilities incorporate community gardens and labyrinths in their renovations and constructions. I've been extremely vocal, sometimes showing up at meetings where people don’t expect me, to stress the importance of both. From personal experience, I’ve seen that even something as small as having a plant in a hospital room can make a difference. Patients will water it, try to get out of bed and see their situation is not their finite future because now they’re seeing a plant bloom and grow. During COVID, my mother broke her leg twice and developed PTSD about falling. We placed a plant in her room to motivate her to get out of bed. It worked — it became a key part of her recovery, reminding her that life ebbs and flows. Plants aren’t just beautiful or something we control — they’re a source of motivation, a reminder of cycles and resilience. They bring deep meaning to life. They are, in a way, a “gateway drug” to balance and the natural rhythm of what we were meant to be as humans. I was once the typical person lost in the corporate grind — everything planned out, with my leather attaché case and daytimer and iPhone. I did everything and yet still was in a nonsensical accident. The preordainedness of this experience — the universe couldn’t have given this opportunity to a better person. I’ve become a lobbyist — an extension of my corporate side but today’s world almost demands that if you want to have impactful conversations at the municipal level. So I can ask: If we’re building affordable housing, are we also creating community gardens? Are our health care improvements including labyrinths and green spaces? Are we educating people about these benefits? I’m now undeniable in my advocacy and my proof of concept. This works and it makes a difference. I’m stronger and very different from the person I was before the accident. The corporate world does not allow this part of you to show much. But between the accident and COVID, I have become a force to be reckoned with.
Try a better wire basket at braunbaskets.com
PALACE PERENNIALS PALACE PERENNIALS Pr dly ing pennials f 35 ye s Pr dly ing pennials f 35 ye s
Fruits and succulents Many unique and hard to find varieties Over 1200+ varieties of perennials Fruits and succulents Many unique and hard to find varieties Over 1200+ varieties of perennials
Great fern, hosta and ornamental grass selection, premium tropical selection, premium annuals, hardy vines, Ontario Natives, clematis, herbs, and water plants Great fern, hosta and ornamental grass selection, premium tropical selection, premium annuals, hardy vines, Ontario Natives, clematis, herbs, and water plants
519-542-8353 Sales - 866-843-0438 sales@sipkensnurseries.com 519-542-8353 Sales - 866-843-0438 sales@sipkensnurseries.com
Catalogue at palaceperennials.com Catalogue at palaceperennials.com
24 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs