Knowledge You Need to Grow
May | June 2026
THE PATH TO SUCCESS EMILY KEOWN'S JOURNEY CREATES OPPORTUNITY AND INSPIRATION PAGE 14
OTTAWA AWARD WINNERS PAGE 4
REMEMBER TO DIG SAFE PAGE 10
MEMBER BENEFIT: KSMI WEATHER PAGE 22
May | June 2026 Volume 44 - No. 03 LandscapeOntario.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
What we heard W hen wrote my first column, I asked you to think with me. I meant it literally. Since then, I've been on the road. I've met with many of our Chapters and Sector Groups. I've sat down with small groups of members and had one-on-one conversations to talk honestly about where Landscape Ontario is and where it needs to go. These weren't presentations. They were real conversations, and I walked away from every one of them with something I didn't have before. Here's what I heard. First: Members understand the world LO was built for is not the world we're operating in today. The governance structures that served us brilliantly for decades have become outdated, leading to slower decisions and energy spent on process instead of impact. These structures made sense in 1973, but now create friction in 2026. I didn't have to make that case from scratch in a single room. The recognition was already there. Second: Members are curious about what comes next. We talked about what the future of our governance could look like. We discussed designing a governance structure that's both efficient and representative, which protects regional voices and builds an organization capable of moving quickly when advocacy demands it. Those conversations were genuinely energizing. I've also had members reach out. One email that stuck with me came from a longtime member and Master Gardener. He wrote to say he liked where we were going — and asked us not to lose the ground we've gained on environmental issues as we modernize. It was a good reminder that governance reform isn't abstract. It connects directly to whether we can deliver on concrete things our members care about, like advocacy, the environment and the next generation of professionals joining this industry. That connection is exactly the point. We’ve already made some solid progress. At the last Provincial Board meeting, we reached a broad consensus on the future of Chapter events — a framework that balances high-quality, regionally focused programming with local micro-events built around connection and community. Two different kinds of value, delivered two different ways. It's a good example of what responsive governance actually looks like in practice. And there's more changes coming. A bylaw committee is kicking off shortly, and the working groups forming around it will shape the specific proposals members will vote on at our next Annual General Meeting in January 2027. If you haven't weighed in yet, the door is still open. Reach out to me at the email below. And if you want to understand the impetus behind the direction we're heading, I will explain more in my next message. We're building this together.
FEATURES
14 Member Profile: Emily Keown
DEPARTMENTS
4 Association News 7 New Members 12 GROW Success Snapshot 18 Professional News 19 Columns
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President - Lindsey Ross Past President - Ed Hansen Vice President - Jeff Olsen Second Vice President - Pam Cook Treasurer - Jon Agg
COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT Communications Director - Penny Tantakis Editor - Robert Ellidge Creative Director - Mike Wasilewski Managing Editor, Multimedia - Karina Sinclair Graphic Design Associate - Aisha Shaikh Account Manager - Greg Sumsion Account Manager - Liz Lant Digital Marketing Specialist - Charlotte Guena Web & Digital Systems Specialist - Laura Fox Communications Coordinator - Angela Lindsay Accountant - Joe Sabatino STAFF CONTACT: landscapeontario.com/about/staff COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE Mark Fisher, Hank Gelderman, Lindsay Drake Nightingale, Gerald Boot CLM, Vanessa McQuade 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 2026, 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
Lindsey Ross LO President president@lglinc.ca
MAY - JUNE 2026 | 3
ASSOCIATION NEWS
Ottawa Chapter hands out 2026 awards
Recipients of the new Val Kirschner Scholarship gather on stage with Landscape Ontario executive director Joe Salemi at the Ottawa Chapter’s Awards of Distinction event on Mar. 3, 2026.
2026 Ottawa Chapter Awards of Distinction winners
Landscape Ontario’s Ottawa Chapter held its annual Awards of Distinction event on Mar. 3, 2026, to recognize outstanding suppliers, individuals and students with the Chapter. Held in conjunction with Green Trade Expo, the evening event included a cocktail hour, award presentations and a fun, casino gaming night. Nominees for the various awards were accepted online in December and January, followed by an online voting period to determine the winners in each of the various categories. In addition, successful applicants to the Chapter’s new Val Kirscher Scholarship were also announced to the live audience of about 150 people. Landscape Ontario would like to recognize the following sponsors of the Ottawa Chapter’s 2026 Awards of Distinction: ext, Stittsville Trailers, The Sam Group, Ritchie Feed & Seed, Bolduc, SiteOne Landscape Supply.
PLANT MATERIAL SUPPLIER Greenlife Nursery HARDSCAPE MATERIAL SUPPLIER Cohen & Cohen/SiteOne LANDSCAPE EQUIPMENT RETAILER Robertson Rent-All Inc LANDSCAPE ACCESSORY SUPPLIER Cohen & Cohen/SiteOne SUPPLIER TO THE LANDSCAPE TRADE Cityscape SALESPERSON OF THE YEAR Josh Donoghue, Ritchie Feed & Seed JOAN JOHNSTON AWARD Pete Campbell BRUCE MORTON STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARD Yan Guo
VAL KIRSCHER SCHOLARSHIP
Samuel J. Brooks Sabrina Ducharme Gabrielle Lugli Ian Robert Patterson Zak Sheedy Rhianwen Thibert Evan Valladares JIM BAUER AWARD
Bauer Landscape & Garden Maintenance Bernwood Contractors & Consultants Inc BVG Landscape Contractor Inc Carleton Place Nursery Ltd Frenk van Herpen Landscaping G. Robert Landscape and Design Inc Lafleur de la Capitale Inc Prestige Design & Construction Ltd
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4 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
With Accelerate , say bye to ghost clock-ins Call us strict but... Durham Chapter announces support for students
Crew App Applications are being accepted until Aug. 31, 2026. For full eligibility requirements and an online application, visit landscapeontario.com/ durham-chapter-bursary-program-2026. Applicants must also be a resident of Durham Region or have a clear connection to the Durham Chapter (for example, employer is a Durham Chapter member).
Geofence based clock-ins support to students pursuing post- secondary education in landscape- related fields, with one simple goal: Landscape Ontario’s Durham Chapter recently announced the creation of a bursary program to support education, training and workforce development within the landscape horticulture industry. The program provides financial
strengthen the future of the industry while giving back to the Durham community. In order to apply, students must be enrolled or recently graduated (within 12 months of the application) in a horticulture, landscape or related environmental studies program from a recognized Ontario post-secondary institution.
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MAY - JUNE 2026 | 5
ASSOCIATION NEWS
New member benefits with Square and Nissan
Square payments and POS A new national partnership with Square provides members with modern payment processing solutions and Point of Sale (POS) benefits.
Square helps landscapers, nurseries and retail garden centres sell more and manage less by integrating payments, POS, eCommerce, inventory, gift cards, loyalty and marketing in one easy-to-use platform. • Send invoices and accept card payments from customers • Take payments on-site using Square’s mobile Point of Sale for iOS and Android For landscapers: For nurseries and garden centres: • Speed up checkout with fast, modern hardware • Sell online with Square’s eCommerce tools • Manage stock in real time with integrated inventory tracking • Drive repeat sales with Square Gift Cards and Square Loyalty Exclusive member discounts* CNLA members who are new to Square and process $250,000+ in annual credit card volume may be eligible for preferred pricing, including: • Up to $1,500 in free Square hardware • Up to 25% off any Square software subscription • Custom processing rates that match or beat a current provider (where applicable) • Hardware and software discounts vary based on annual card processing volume. Nicole Xavier, member services and administration manager at CNLA said: “Members tell us they want tools that are simple, reliable and built for the real world of running a horticulture business. This partnership gives eligible members access to Square’s all-in-one platform plus preferred pricing, so they can streamline checkout, get paid faster and keep more time focused on customers and crews.” For full terms and conditions, please visit cnla.ca/suppliers/square-program. Nissan Canada CNLA and Nissan have partnered to offer members access to significant discounts on new or unused Nissan vehicles
The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) recently added two new member savings benefits available to members of Landscape Ontario.
6 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
through fleet purchases or lease programs. Vehicles include: cars, cross-overs, trucks and EVs built to work for business. Vehicles must be registered under the name of the member company and discounts can not be combined with any other incentives. A completed Vehicle Information Sheet available (see URL below) is required prior to purchase, as well as payment of a $200 per vehicle administrative fee. After payment, CNLA will send an authorization letter to the dealership with a confirmation to access the discounts. For full details on the program and how to access savings, visit cnla.ca/suppliers/nissan-program.
Record number of scholarships available until June 30
a specific program or area of study. Program coordinators and educators can nominate outstanding students for a $3,000 scholarship under the Cullen Scholarship Program. A nomination form, including forms for a few special Foundation scholarships can be found at OHTF.ca/nominations. Applicants are required to meet specific eligibility requirements and provide documentation such as proof of residency, proof of enrollment, school transcript, and in most cases a short essay. Online applications can be saved at any time and returned to at a later date for completion before the June 30 deadline. Full details on eligibility and documentation, plus a list of accredited schools and programs is included at OHTF.ca/scholarships.
The Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation (Foundation) recently opened applications and nominations for its 2026 scholarship program. Ontario students, apprentices and program coordinators have until June 30, 2026, to complete all applications and nominations via the Foundation website at OHTF.ca/scholarships. For 2026, the Foundation has increased the amount of its Apprenticeship Scholarship from $500 to $1,000 and the value of the College or University Scholarship increased from $1,000 to $1,200. Under the Foundation scholarships, Landscape Ontario’s London, Upper Canada and Waterloo Chapters also offer scholarships of up to $2,000 for students within their geographic boundaries, or enrolled in
To find out more about the many cost saving programs
available to Landscape Ontario members through CNLA, visit landscapeontario.com/membership/ member-benefits.
TORONTO
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GEORGIAN LAKELANDS
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LANDSCAPE ONTARIO WE L C OME S OUR NEWEST MEMBERS
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FIND OUT ABOUT EVENTS IN YOUR CHAPTER AT HORTTRADES.COM/EVENTS
MAY - JUNE 2026 | 7
ASSOCIATION NEWS
Plan ahead for winter success at Snowposium 2026
Snowposium’s summer timing gives you a strategic advantage, allowing you to make informed purchasing decisions and plan ahead well before the first snowfall. Online registration is now open. Be sure to register by June 15 to take advantage of discounted Early Bird pricing. Pricing: Conference (until June 15): Member $150 | Non-member $150
Snowposium, the one-day event for professionals in the snow and ice industry will take place on July 22 at The International Centre in Toronto. Snowposium is where Canada’s snow and ice decision-makers come together to buy, learn and plan for the winter ahead. Whether you’re a manufacturer, supplier or property manager, Snowposium delivers the connections, insights and solutions you need to stay competitive in a fast- moving industry. The day will begin with a half-day conference featuring three dynamic speakers who will cover timely topics, share expert insights and provide practical strategies you can bring back to your business. From improving operations to staying ahead of industry trends, these sessions are designed to help you prepare for the season ahead.
The trade show will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and feature leading exhibitors showcasing the latest equipment, technology and services. This is your opportunity to explore new products, connect directly with suppliers and discover solutions that can help move your business forward this winter.
Conference (after June 15): Member $175 | Non-member $200
Trade Show: $50
Register at snowposium.ca and use promo code SNOW26 to receive free admission to the trade show.
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Toronto Chapter awards $16,000 to local projects
that applied by the March 13 deadline. Toronto Chapter is in the process of pursuing one of the projects to support on a larger scale. Funding for the program is raised at the Chapter’s annual summer golf tournament. For details on the program
Landscape Ontario’s Toronto Chapter recently announced the list of successful initiatives and organizations that will receive funding support under the Chapter’s annual Bursary Program. Since 2017, the Toronto Chapter Bursary Program has funded small-scale projects in the neighbourhoods where members live and work in an effort to help nurture nature in Toronto. About 40 funding applications were
received this year, with successful applicants chosen by a selection committee for aligning with the program’s goals. These include enhancing the physical, mental and spiritual wellness of those in the local community; offering environmental benefit, such as a pollinator or wildlife garden; or providing educational benefit. An extra $1,000 was awarded this year due to the large number of worthy projects
and to see past recipients, visit landscapeontario.com/toronto- chapter-bursary-program.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING BURSARY RECIPIENTS
The Laneway Garden/Gitigaan Project $1,000 Ubuntu Community Farm $750
Bowery Project $1,000 Building Roots $1,250 Community Fridges $750 Community Resilience to Extreme Weather $1,000
Guildwood Butterflyway Project $1,000 Kingsview Free Methodist Church $1,000 Many Hands Urban Farm Collective $1000 South Parkdale Community Pollinator Gardens $1,000
St. Marguerite Bourgeoys $1,250 The Darling Home for Kids $1,000 The Gatehouse Child Abuse Investigation and Support Site $1,000
E.T. Crowle Public School $1,250 Flemingdon Park Ministry $750 Greens Thumbs Growing Kid s $1,000
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MAY - JUNE 2026 | 9
ASSOCIATION NEWS
Landscape Ontario raises the Dig Safe flag
(L-R): Eric Boere, ORCGA; Joe Salemi, Landscape Ontario; Sean James, ORCGA; Ann Lawlor, Mayor of Halton Hills; Mitch Panciuk, Ontario One Call.
Landscape Ontario staff, industry representatives and local dignitaries braved a cold and wet spring day on Apr. 2, 2026, to officially proclaim the month of April as Dig Safe Month in the Town of Halton Hills, Ont. Dig Safe Month is a long-standing initiative of the Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance (ORCGA), a growing organization of members, sponsors and industry stakeholders whose mission is to educate workers, the public and underground infrastructure through advocacy and engagement. The Dig Safe Month safety awareness campaign is timed to coincide with the unofficial start of digging season to remind contractors and home and property owners about safe excavation practices and to raise awareness about the simple but essential step of requesting underground locates before disturbing the soil for spring planting or outdoor construction projects. Every year, thousands of underground infrastructure strikes occur across Ontario. These incidents can put workers at risk, disrupt essential services and damage critical infrastructure.
Most of the damage could have been prevented by contacting Ontario One Call before digging. The service is free of charge and is legally required by law in Ontario. At the Landscape Ontario event, Halton Hills Mayor Ann Lawlor read an official Dig Safe proclamation to spread awareness about this important safety message which was followed by the raising of a Dig Safe flag that will be visible to hundreds of thousands of daily commuters along a busy stretch of Highway 401. Landscape Ontario would recognize the following individuals who also participated in the event: Eric Boere and Sean James from the ORCGA; Mitch Panciuk, Ontario One Call; councillors Alex Hilson, Michael Albano, Matt K., and Chantal Garneau. For more information on Dig Safe Month and safe digging practices, visit DigSafe.ca. To request locates prior to excavation, visit OntarioOneCall.ca. You can also learn more about the risks of skipping this step on the Landscape Ontario Podcast episode — One click, no chaos: How to avoid a dig mistake.
10 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
Conversations on the issues and innovations shaping landscaping and horticulture New episodes EVERY MONTH LISTEN FOR FREE ON YOUR FAVOURITE PODCAST APP
MAY - JUNE 2026 | 11
GROW SUCCESS SNAPSHOT
From newcomer to employer A full-circle GROW story
By Amir Yani
Learning through GROW Soon after joining the company, he was enrolled in the GROW program. Delivered online during the pandemic, the program offered practical, industry-specific training. Teixeira focused on courses that would help him move beyond an entry-level role, particularly in leadership. The training helped him build confidence and better understand the day-to-day realities of landscaping in Canada, from equipment use to client expectations. It also had a direct impact on his work. After completing the program, Teixeira and his team began raising standards across their site. Their efforts led to winning a provincial award. The following year, they earned a national award for the same client. “That showed we were on the right path,” he said. He moved from crew member to crew leader, then into site and field supervisor roles. Today, he serves as an operations manager for the company’s Toronto branch, while also handling account management and supporting sales. With each step came new responsibilities. That perspective shapes his approach to leadership. Teixeira focuses on coaching his team, building trust and helping employees develop the skills needed to advance. He encourages staff to take on new challenges and sees Moving into management Teixeira’s career progression followed steadily.
Aurelio Teixeira knows what it means to start over. He also knows what it means to come full circle. In 2020, Teixeira joined the GROW program offered by Landscape Ontario as a newcomer to Canada, determined to rebuild a career he had already established in Brazil. Today, he is an operations manager hiring graduates from the same program that helped him get his career started. His journey reflects both personal determination and the long-term impact of industry training. Starting out in Canada Teixeira arrived in Toronto in 2017 with a background in agricultural research. In Brazil, he held a senior position working in horticulture. But like many newcomers to Canada, he faced the challenge of starting over. Rather than holding out for a similar role, he chose a different approach. That opportunity came with Strathmore Landscape Contractors, where he started as a crew member. At the time, he was part of a small team responsible for maintaining a single site. It was a step back professionally, but a deliberate one. “I told them, you don’t know me,” Teixeira said. “Give me one year. Let me show you who I am.” Teixeira saw it as a chance to prove himself in a new market while learning the expectations of the Canadian landscape industry.
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12 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
growth as a shared responsibility between employee and employer. “If they succeed, I succeed,” Teixeira said. “If they fail, I fail.” Hiring from the program Teixeira now regularly connects with GROW participants through job fairs and industry events. In recent years, he has hired about six graduates, with more candidates currently in the hiring process. For him, the difference between candidates who have completed the GROW training and those who haven't is very noticeable. “They come prepared,” he says. “They understand the basics. They know what the job is about.” That foundation allows new hires to transition more quickly into their roles. It also signals a level of commitment to the industry. Teixeira is not focused on finding candidates with extensive experience. Instead,
professionals online to keep learning. While time is more limited now, he still sees ongoing education as an important part of his development. He also encourages others, especially newcomers, to consider the GROW program. “It shows you the reality of the job,” he said. “And it helps you decide if it’s the right fit.” program marked a starting point. Today, it also serves as a hiring pipeline. From participant to employer, his journey reflects the value of training, opportunity and a willingness to begin again. It also highlights how programs like GROW can support not only individuals, but the industry as a whole. By investing in new talent, Teixeira is now helping others take the same first step he once did. More information about LO’s GROW program can be found Full circle For Teixeira, the GROW
Aurelio Teixeira
Staying connected Throughout his various roles, Teixeira continues to stay connected with Landscape Ontario. He attends seminars when his schedule allows and follows instructors and industry
he looks for individuals who are willing to learn and interested in building a long-term career. “I don’t want to see someone in the same position after two years,” he said. “I want to see progress.”
at growtraining.ca.
This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.
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MAY - JUNE 2026 | 13
FEATURE
14 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
ROOTS Emily Keown’s journey to finding her place in the industry IN THE INDUSTRY
By Gail Pope
E mily Keown’s journey proves the path to success is often a winding one, demanding both the flexibility to embrace radical change and the wisdom to return to your roots. As a persistent champion of community and collaboration, Keown is transforming both clients’ properties and the face of leadership in the landscape trades. Growing up, Keown watched her mother run the successful Lake of
College to pursue a career as a law clerk, a path she quickly
realized was not for her, as she found the work repetitive and stressful. After finishing this degree, she worked in
banking, which also failed to spark the passion her mother had hoped she would find. Throughout these years, each time Keown was unsure of what to do or where to go next, she was drawn back to the family business. She eventually quit her job at the bank to work there full-time. “I started to realize, maybe this is what I want to do,” she said. Keown recognized that with bills to pay and a future to prepare for, she would need to go all in. She went back to school in 2016 to earn her diploma in Floral Design and started the floral department at Lake of Bays. After a couple of years, another opportunity came up for her to manage the maintenance team. Then, in 2019, roles shifted once more when her brother opened Fivepoint Landscaping and took over the centre's maintenance section, having Keown to work alongside him. In 2021, Keown bought into Fivepoint Landscaping, officially becoming a co-owner.
Bays Garden Centre in Dwight, Ont. Instead of expecting her daughter to follow in her footsteps, her mother encouraged her to seek out a passion and professional path that was her own. “My mom wanted us to learn how to work for other employers, since it’s a different experience from working for your family,” Keown explained. This encouragement led Keown to explore various fields. As a child, she would talk about becoming a hairdresser and moving to a big city. During high school, she worked as a waitress, but often found herself between shifts offering to join the mulching crew or cut grass. On weekends, she would also help out at the garden centre. Keown continued to explore her options throughout her twenties. She attended Georgian
Continued >
MAY - JUNE 2026 | 15
An opportunity for change After years in the industry, Keown decided it was time to deepen her engagement with the landscape community, and joined Landscape Ontario (LO). The first meeting she attended was in Huntsville, at the Georgian Lakelands Chapter’s annual Ministry of Transportation (MTO) meeting in 2022. There, she watched an excellent presentation that had hardly any attendance. This experience was an eye-opener, and Emily quickly recognized an opportunity for change. “The Muskoka area is filled with landscaping companies, but I realized that people didn’t see the point in joining Landscape Ontario when meetings were so scattered across the northern area of Ontario. Only one meeting a year would be in Huntsville, and all the others would be in the south,” she said. This observation sparked the idea; establishing a new, locally focused chapter in the Muskoka region. However, creating a new chapter is no simple task. Emily and a group of members from the Muskokas met for over a year discussing this idea. They began by developing a strategic plan to outline the need for a new chapter, the events they would host and the proposed geographical borders. The team pointed out barriers like how Georgian Lakelands Chapter territory covered vast border lines, making events inaccessible for many. The need for region-specific plant training was also highlighted, as the diverse planting zones across Ontario mean that training
Fivepoint Landscaping offers help to clients at any stage of a project. From site clearing and basement digging, to landscape design and construction, planting and/or ongoing maintenance. With over 20 years of experience, Keown highlights how they are most proud of their ability to coordinate every part of the project, making it more efficient and stress free for clients. “What I enjoy most is being able to see a project go from a field of trees to a new home. It’s amazing to see the transformation.” Keown is firm in keeping work separate from her personal life; a dynamic she believes has helped her family in working together for so many years. “Business is business and personal is personal and we are very careful in preserving this,” Keown said. However, she also recognizes how working with family and knowing so much about them is a primary building block to their success, since she is able to support her team members when they need it most. “Since we are so close knit, I already know when they may need extra time off to deal with a difficult situation.” That said, safety and professionalism always come first at Fivepoint. Keown keeps their work culture open and honest to ensure that personal challenges don’t follow their employees into the job site. “Building a culture where people feel supported but still understand the responsibility of the work we do has been a big part of Fivepoint’s success. Like any business, it’s something we continue to learn and improve as we grow,” Keown said.
focused on Toronto would not be relevant to areas like Muskoka. After successfully creating a petition of support from companies across the Muskoka region, Keown presented the formal request to create a new chapter at an LO Provincial Board meeting. “I came to the board meeting with all the material possible and a prepared PowerPoint. I wanted to make sure there was no question that this was needed,” Keown said. From there, the Muskoka North Chapter was born. Once the Chapter was established in 2023, Keown was elected president and momentum accelerated. From hosting job fairs to network luncheons, the chapter continued to grow and thrive, eventually adding on more integrated events as seen in other chapters, like an annual golf tournament and Christmas party. The chapter’s primary long-term goal is to promote youth involvement in landscaping, noting that guidance counselors often steer students toward college or university, overlooking landscaping as a viable career path. To address this, the chapter started two bursary projects this year, one offering $5,000 to students pursuing landscaping- related studies, and the other supporting community projects, especially those involving youth. Inspiring women in the industry Keown stepped back from the president’s role this year to make time for other commitments. However, she remains actively involved in the board. Having
16 | LANDSCAPE ONTARIO
already made a lasting impact on the greater LO community, Keown continues to be a role model for women entering or working in the industry. The most important advice Keown offers to women in landscaping is the need for persistence and confidence in their own capabilities. “There have been so many meetings where project managers have looked past me and thought I knew nothing,” she explained. “But by the end of the project they were shaking my hand and saying how they look forward to working with me in the future. You just have to keep going.” This persistence was recognized when Keown and fellow Muskoka North chapter member Jennifer Davies, owner of Pratt’s Lawn Care, were both named recipients of the Women of Influence award. The award celebrates the remarkable achievements of women who are shaping the future of Ontario’s landscape and horticulture industry. Keown was completely surprised when she won at the Awards of Excellence at Congress 2026. “I just remember sitting there thinking, I hope I’m not winning an award, it would be nerve-wracking to get up there in front of so many people. But when I won, I was so shocked and grateful for the recognition,” she said. Life outside the world of landscaping Keown notes the importance of not letting work stress follow you home. To decompress after a hard day at work, or just any day in general, Keown heads to the stables to be with her horses. “I think it’s really important to have a passion that acts as an escape from the natural stress of life. Horses are my passion and that chance to escape.” This passion has also led Keown to compete in shows as far as Texas. She is the horse show director at the Armour, Ryerson and Burk’s Falls Agricultural Society and assists with local and international horse shows, including the World Championship for Extreme Cowboy Racing Association in Glen Rose, Texas. She also enjoys leatherworking and staying active. Anything, she said, to be outdoors. Looking ahead, Keown has always been motivated to keep Fivepoint at the top of their craft with continual education. She is currently working toward her Certified Landscape Designer designation. “My focus has always been on doing the best work we can, building a strong team, and continually improving our craft through our techniques and embracing new technologies.” Keown said.
MAY - JUNE 2026 | 17
PROFESSIONAL NEWS
National grant program launched to address horticultural labour shortage
The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) recently launched a national employee grant program designed to support the attraction and retention of new employees in the horticulture and landscape industry. Called Digging into our Future, the new program will provide 10 grants of $1,000 each to eligible new entrants working in qualifying horticulture and landscape roles across Canada. The grant is paid directly to the employee in two stages: $500 upon entry into a qualifying position and $500 after four months of continuous employment with the same employer. Digging into our Future is intended to reduce barriers to entry, support employment continuity and help strengthen the horticulture workforce by encouraging new people to build lasting careers in the industry. “Labour remains one of the most pressing issues facing our sector,” said Jeff Foley, HR chair, CNLA. “This program is designed to support new entrants directly by helping reduce barriers at the start of employment and encouraging retention in the months that follow. It is a practical way to help strengthen the workforce over the long term.”
To be eligible, employees must be newly entering the horticulture or landscape industry, be legally eligible to work in Canada, work in a horticulture-related role, work a minimum of 35 hours per week and not be an immediate family member of the employer. Grant payments will be issued only to the eligible employee, subject to program requirements and verification. For more information about Digging into our Future, including employer eligibility and an application form, visit cnla.ca/grants.
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CONFERENCE
Share your expertise at Congress 2027
Do you have insights, strategies or innovations that can elevate the knowledge and skills of landscape contractors, designers and industry professionals? Organizers of the Congress Conference are looking for dynamic speakers to present engaging one-hour, in-person educational sessions at next year’s event, Jan. 12-14, 2027, at the Toronto Congress Centre. The annual three-day conference runs concurrently with the popular Congress trade show that attracts over 12,000 industry pros from across Canada and the U.S. If you want to share your expertise with industry professionals, gain exposure and recognition within the green profession, connect with a passionate and engaged community and inspire others, the Congress Conference is the right fit for you. Submit your proposal by May 29, 2026, at locongress.com/conference/call-for-speakers.
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The work behind the work How LO is investing in the trades, connecting our communities and fighting for your business EXECUTIVE DESK
I spend a lot of time talking to Landscape Ontario (LO) members — on job sites, at chapter events, over coffee, on the phone. No matter who I'm speaking with, whether it’s a landscape contractor in London, a grower in Niagara or a garden centre owner in Ottawa, I keep hearing the same thing: the work matters and so does having an organization that fights for it. That's where I want to focus my thoughts for this column. Not in broad strokes or abstract language, but in the real, concrete (paver) ways Landscape Ontario is showing up for the landscape horticultural trades right now. Let's start with what keeps most of us up at night: finding good people. The labour shortage in our sector isn't new, but there are new challenges. That's why we've made workforce development one of our top priorities — not as a talking point, but as an investment. We're putting real resources into skills training, professional development and pathways that help people enter and advance in this industry. We're also investing in apprenticeship, because the trades model works. It builds competence, it builds confidence and it builds careers. When a young person can see a clear route from entry-level work to running a crew to owning a business, that changes how they think about this industry and whether they stay in it. This isn't something we can do alone. Building the workforce our industry needs It takes partnerships with colleges, training providers and employers who are willing to invest in their people. LO is leading the charge and we're going to keep pushing until the pipeline of skilled workers matches the demand we all feel every season.
Connecting communities One of the things that makes LO unique is the breadth of who we represent. Landscape contractors, garden centres, growers, lighting and irrigation specialists, designers, snow and ice professionals — we are a big tent, and that's a strength. But a big tent only works if the people inside it are actually talking to each other. That's why we continue to invest in chapter programming, networking events and industry gatherings that bring business owners together across disciplines and across the province. Some of the best ideas I've seen come out of this organization didn't start in a boardroom. They started during a conversation between two members who wouldn't have met otherwise. Whether it's a Chapter event in Belleville, Ont., or a Sector Group conference, these connections matter. They sharpen your thinking, expand your network and remind you that you're part of something bigger than your own operation. Advocating where it counts Here's where I want to be direct: government decisions affect your business every single day. Municipal by-laws, provincial regulations, federal policy — these aren't abstract. They show up in your costs, your hiring and your ability to operate. LO is at the table on these issues. We're engaging with municipal councils on by-laws that impact how you do business. We're working with the provincial government on regulatory matters that affect your bottom line. And we're tracking federal policy from labour and immigration to trade, to make sure our industry's voice is heard. Advocacy isn't glamorous work. It's briefing notes, meetings, follow-ups and building relationships with decision- makers who may not fully understand
the contributions of our industry. But it's essential, and we're committed to doing it well at every level of government. The value of what you do I want to close with something that doesn't get said enough: the work you do matters far beyond the property line. Landscape and horticulture professionals build the spaces where people gather, where children play, where communities unite. You manage stormwater, improve air quality and increase property values. You make neighbourhoods safer, healthier and more beautiful. And when the snow falls, you're the ones making sure people can get to work, to school or to the hospital safely. That story, the story of the impact and value of what you do every day is one we are committed to telling. To homeowners, to developers, to governments and to anyone who still thinks of our industry as "just cutting grass." You deserve better than that. And so does your work. Looking ahead There will always be challenges ahead: labour pressures, regulatory complexity, rising costs. These are real, and they're not going away tomorrow. But I've never been more confident in the resilience and professionalism of this industry, or in the ability of this organization to serve it. LO exists because of you. Every initiative I've described here: workforce development, apprenticeship, networking and advocacy is driven by what we hear from members. So keep talking to us, keep showing up and keep pushing us to do more.
Joe Salemi CAE LO Executive Director jsalemi@landscapeontario.com
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Your labour problem is actually a planning problem THE GROUND UP
I n the landscape profession, labour is often the first thing blamed when production slips. The crew was slow or the foreperson did not lead well enough. There were too many mistakes, too many delays and too much wasted time. But more often than many owners want to admit, what looks like a labour problem is actually a planning problem that began long before the crew ever arrived on the jobsite. Monday morning starts with good intentions. Work is sold and the schedule is full. The crew is ready and as the day begins to unravel, materials are missing and equipment is still at the shop or tied up elsewhere. Information is incomplete and priorities are unclear. The day looked fine in advance, but it doesn’t hold up under real conditions. That is not a labour issue, it’s a planning failure. And it matters, because looking to fail. They want to do good work and be productive. They want to finish the day feeling like something meaningful was accomplished. Without a clear and coordinated plan, small gaps quickly become bigger problems. Missing deliveries create downtime. A scheduling conflict creates frustration. An unclear handoff leads to rework. What starts as a minor oversight turns into lost production, missed expectations and pressure across the entire operation. Sure, the company is busy, but performance is inconsistent. Eventually, that inconsistency shows up where it always does, in the numbers. The cost of poor planning Poor planning rarely appears as one dramatic event. More often, it shows up in small losses that stack up throughout the day and compound over the life of a project. Trades are not sequenced properly. Crews stop and start as plans change. Supervisors spend their time solving avoidable problems instead of leading the work. Equipment and materials are not where they need to be when they are needed. when the wrong problem gets blamed, the real one never gets resolved. The problem isn’t effort Most crews don’t show up
None of those issues feel catastrophic on their own, but together, they are truly expensive — production slows, jobs stretch, revenue per hour declines and margins tighten. And because the calendar is full and crews remain active, it’s easy to miss what is really happening. The business looks busy, but it’s not efficient. It’s not the same as controlled. And it is certainly not the same as profitable. In a seasonal business, every lost day carries weight. Time lost to poor planning is rarely recovered. It gets absorbed in overtime, compressed schedules, disappointed customers and reduced margin.
Planning drives performance Planning is not a personality
“Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” — Abraham Lincoln
trait. It is an operating discipline built into the system. And when that
system is weak, the business becomes reactive by default. In many companies, planning happens late, quickly and under pressure. Decisions are made at the end of the week, late in the evening or first thing in the morning after problems
have already surfaced. The schedule gets adjusted on the fly. Resources get shifted reactively. Those in the field pay the price. This is not planning, it’s reacting. Strong operators work differently. They look ahead before the week begins. They align labour, materials, equipment and information before a crew arrives on site. They make decisions earlier, with better visibility and they build enough contingency into the plan to keep the day from falling apart when something changes. A good plan doesn’t guarantee success, but a poor one almost guarantees friction. That kind of rhythm is what separates controlled operations from chaotic ones. Turning numbers into decisions Most companies know they should track numbers. But only a few know how to use them. Numbers matter, but numbers alone do not improve performance. They simply tell you what already happened. Planning is what determines what happens next.
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When revenue per hour slips, when production slows or when jobs consistently take longer than expected, those are not just results to review after the fact. They are operational signals. They are telling you that something in the system needs attention. Strong companies use those signals to improve the next plan. They adjust schedules, rebalance capacity, clarify priorities and correct issues before the same problems repeat. The numbers reveal the gap and proper planning is what closes it. Work gets added because it is available, not because it fits. The schedule fills up. Crews get stretched. Priorities begin to compete. Leadership convinces itself that a packed calendar means progress, but it doesn’t. Once capacity is exceeded, even a decent plan starts to fail. Jobs overlap, focus disappears, execution slows and revenue per hour becomes harder to maintain. Managing capacity, not chaos This is where many companies quietly lose control. Disciplined operators understand that planning is not just about organizing work, it’s about protecting the business’s ability to execute well. Not all work belongs on the schedule simply because it can be sold. The wrong job, at the wrong time, can disrupt an entire week, sometimes an entire season. That’s why selecting the right work is just as important as planning it well. Preparation drives performance The best-run companies don’t rely on hustle to make the numbers work. They rely on preparation. When visibility is clear, planning becomes intentional. When planning is intentional, capacity can be managed. When capacity is managed, execution improves. And when execution improves, performance becomes more predictable. Not because the work gets easier, but because the system gets stronger. In the end, better results don’t come from asking crews to push harder through broken plans. Results come from making clearer decisions earlier, before the first shovel hits the ground. In my next column, I’ll break down why revenue per hour remains one of the clearest indicators of whether planning, scheduling and execution are actually working.
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Glenn Curtis Owner Plantenance Landscape Group
Glenn Curtis is a Certified LeanScaper Advisor who helps landscape professionals implement practical systems that drive clarity, profitability and sustainable growth. He is also co-founder and president of Plantenance Landscape Group and Design Plantenance, an award-winning firm creating exceptional outdoor environments for more than 45 years.
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Know what to expect with the KSMI Weather App MEMBERSHIP
L andscaping is full of unpredictability, with the weather being a major factor. Imagine checking the weather the night before and seeing clear skies ahead for tomorrow. You notify the crews to get ready for a productive day. However, what started out as a beautiful, sunny day quickly turns into a downpour. By then, I’m sure you are thinking, “I wish I could get more accurate weather data.” Since 2013, KSMI has provided these solutions through real- time weather data and reports to industries. In 2022, Landscape Ontario was added as one of the select groups to access this benefit. Green Trade, Green Trade Sole Proprietor, Green Trade Supplier and Green Trade Chapter Supplier members can all utilize the program. What makes the KSMI Weather App unique? KSMI Weather is a single source for weather information tailored specifically to your line of work. All information is accessible through an app, email or TV products. The database provides highly localized weather details for every operational area your business covers, enabling you to pinpoint conditions down to an exact building location. This granular approach distinguishes KSMI from most weather stations. Instead of relying on centralized data, such as that collected at an airport, KSMI has hundreds of live and archived weather and traffic cameras for continuous monitoring of conditions. This system is built specifically for operations that need to make weather-dependent decisions, meaning the focus is not just forecasting, but helping teams understand timing, risk and potential impacts so they can plan with more confidence. This data is particularly critical during severe winter conditions. KSMI is capable of generating detailed reports on current weather, covering everything from highway surface conditions to precise snowfall rates. Surface temperature and snowfall rates can fluctuate even over a few kilometres, which is why KSMI has access to over 250 road weather sensor sites. Additionally, they can deploy their own sensors for site-specific monitoring of parking lots, driveways and walkways. KSMI tools are easy to use Through the KSMI Weather Client Portal, LO members are able to access a wide variety of tools, including: • Current conditions and detailed hourly conditions of selected sites, • 10-day forecasts, • Interactive maps for weather alerts, watches and warnings, • Real-time highway surface conditions, • Hundreds of cameras throughout the province, • Future radar, as well as forecast rain and snow accumulation.
KSMI offers the ability to set up custom alerts so you can stay updated on changes in the weather. Throughout the day, KSMI’s weather experts also create detailed reports that include information like forecast breakdowns and graphs that depict the changes over time. Members can set the sites they track, the information they receive and the number of times a report is sent each day. How do you access KSMI Weather? Follow the steps below to access KSMI Weather: • Go to portal.ksmi.ca • Select Create a New Account and fill out your registration information.* • For Association select Landscape Ontario . • It may take 1-2 days for your account to be verified by KSMI. • You will be notified by KSMI once your account is verified and ready to use. • Keep an eye out for how-to videos coming from KSMI. *IMPORTANT: You MUST sign up with an email address associated with your member profile with Landscape Ontario. If you run into issues with registration due to an unverified email, please contact membership@landscapeontario.com or call 1-800-265-5656 or 905-875-1805 so we can update your file. If you run into any account issues with the KSMI Weather portal, please contact KSMI directly at support@ksmi.ca.
Gail Pope LO Membership Admin Assistant gpope@landscapeontario.com
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