Why do all lawn care folks have a second job??

[smoofs71]

I was thinking about starting a landscaping business this spring. My only worry is that it seems 99% of landscapers have another full time job. Is there no money in it or is it just poor money management??

[thesargent]

i dont. this is my only job and its part time. 4 days a week.

[martinfan06]

99% thats way to high of a number maybe 45%.

[POPO4995]

I have 2 part-time jobs and lawn/landscape as full-time. Just the way I like it. My philosophy is if your sittin on the couch, there isnt any $$$ being made!

[ChadsLawn]

I have 2 part-time jobs and lawn/landscape as full-time. Just the way I like it. My philosophy is if your sittin on the couch, there isnt any $$$ being made!

But if your always working, how are you going to enjoy the money? Im sittin on my couch right now. Should I get off my fat azz and do some work? Nah NASCAR is coming on.

[DBL]

part time tow truck driver one day a week just for fun

[POPO4995]

But if your always working, how are you going to enjoy the money? Im sittin on my couch right now. Should I get off my fat azz and do some work? Nah NASCAR is coming on.
Thats just me....I usually try to take Sundays off. If I get motivation, I go to the shop and sharpen blades and just cleanup a bit. I'm actually doing monthly statements at the moment. I must agree though, NASCAR is comin on...:laugh: :clapping:

[olderthandirt]

I was thinking about starting a landscaping business this spring. My only worry is that it seems 99% of landscapers have another full time job. Is there no money in it or is it just poor money management??


Because most don't relize that a business needs to grow to be successful and to grow you need employees. A grass cutter may be a business but he will be limited in what he can earn.

I was thinking about starting a landscaping business this spring.

Also it takes a lot more than just thinking to start and grow any kind of business

[Hummer]

Maybe the 2nd job is what supplies the health insurance?

[DBL]

Maybe the 2nd job is what supplies the health insurance?

i know a lco who works like 4hrs every morning at ups for benefits for his whole family and another lco who has a full time job with the township and he also has full benefits and its a CAKE job but he also has a guy run his business for him

[ChadsLawn]

Thats just me....I usually try to take Sundays off. If I get motivation, I go to the shop and sharpen blades and just cleanup a bit. I'm actually doing monthly statements at the moment. I must agree though, NASCAR is comin on...:laugh: :clapping:
I do my statements on the 22nd of each month. Mail them the next day. Ive been getting my checks in by the 5th of the next month. Works out really well.

[PMLAWN]

I have 2 part-time jobs and lawn/landscape as full-time. Just the way I like it. My philosophy is if your sittin on the couch, there isnt any $$$ being made!
Poor way to live a life.

[PMLAWN]

Maybe the 2nd job is what supplies the health insurance?
Why not just run your "business" in a way that actually supports your family??

[PMLAWN]

Is there no money in it or is it just poor money management??99% of the time it is poor money management and poor business skills. Anybody can cut grass-- very few can run a business

[jcb287]

I drive a school bus full time:dizzy: It gives me time in between routes to check on the crew plus do some myself.The big plus is I get the summer off and still get paid from the school.payup It actually works out very well.

[cl&l c.c. Tx]

It seems to me that most that have another job are usually just starting their business and need the consistent income while they build their client base (such as myself). I suppose you could be full time right out of the gate, but you would have to take every lowball crap job you could just to scrape by, and you probably would burn out before you ever got ahead. As far as poor money/business management goes at my "day job" (which happens to be at night) I run a million dollar company very successfully. So I guess I'm already one step ahead of the game!!!

[Tharrell]

It's hard to just "start" a business. Unless you buy one, you pretty much have to balance a business with a job until you can leave the job.
My cousin has a good thing going. He's a police officer in town and started a lawn business. Right now, he's got 2 guys doing the business and I suppose he helps some but, he's a higher up in the dept and I'm sure it's his priority.
When he retires, he'll have a business to step into.

[WJW Lawn]

This is my only job. I service my accounts and knock em out in a few days... then avoid paying daycare fees by staying home with my 16 month old. Works for me...and I dont need another job. Guess its all about money management. I mean...how many posts do we read here about someone buying a 10K Z turn with only 5 accounts!??? Ya damn right they would have to work two jobs!! lol Its all about using your head...and not spending a dump truck load on equipment...that you can't justify. But other people works 2 jobs to slowly grow their business---which I think is smart.

[2 clowns mowing]

it's my only job and i have two employees. been in business only 1 and 1/2 years. theres a lot of work out there to be done. and i'm making great money:clapping:

[PMLAWN]

It seems to me that most that have another job are usually just starting their business and need the consistent income while they build their client base (such as myself). I suppose you could be full time right out of the gate, but you would have to take every lowball crap job you could just to scrape by, and you probably would burn out before you ever got ahead. As far as poor money/business management goes at my "day job" (which happens to be at night) I run a million dollar company very successfully. So I guess I'm already one step ahead of the game!!!
OK, I have got to ask,-- If you are up all night and making a million dollars,, Why cut grass all day??

[fastcutter]

I have been doing it for 15 years and I love money.. Full timer here.

[Runner]

99% of the time it is poor money management and poor business skills. Anybody can cut grass-- very few can run a business
There it is - in a nutshell, right there.
As far as the original question,.."My only worry is that it seems 99% of landscapers have another full time job. Is there no money in it or is it just poor money management??"

The fact of the matter is, is that 99% of the "landscapers" are fly by nighters who THOUGHT they would make it big time, because it seems the thing to do. Hey, EVERYbody's doing it, so it MUST be easy. Let's face it, cuttin' grass is not brain surgery, and it is something that MOST everyone can do. young, old, smart, slow, etc.. we see it all the time. Everybody wants a piece of that there grass cuttin' pie. The thing is, 3-4 years later, they discover they aren't making money at it, and throw in the towel. I wish I could think of a good metaphor for it right now, but I can't seem to find the words. All I know, is that it's like the cream rises to the top, and the vast majority of the pot is just waste. It's a constant slow boil with the vast majority of the operations always being young (not age, but time in business) and not meaning a thing. The only purpose they serve is to always keep the prices lower than any other industry in the world, and to be a constant reminder that this industry has a constant stream of amateur new-comers.

[WJW Lawn]

In my opinion....if you can expand your business by demand...you're better off. Don't go taking out a second mortgage on your house to pay for thousands of dollars in equipment when you havent even handed out flyers. If you do...you may be taking out a third mortgage. Start small...and grow with demand.

[Grimmy]

Soon to retire. Built up the clientele for semi-retirement work. Don't think it is poor money management as you can see by the reply threads.
If you like being outdoors, it is a great business, and besides it keeps you healthy.
Passion will take you farther than your strength.

[sheshovel]

OK Please men let's get this correct now.
A Landscape business is not the same as a Lawn Maintenance business or a Lawn Care business.
Though you can build a business that does both things, a lawn guy who throws in some plants once in awhile and mulches is NOT a landscaper. Nothing wrong with doing lawn maint, I am not saying that at all. Just don't call yourself a landscaper and don't say your starting a Landscaping business when you are going to mow for a living. In this industry these jobs are Not considered the same and the titles of our professions should remain true to this industry.
Landscapers design and install new landscapes for their clients.
Lawn Maintenance people maintain landscapes that are existing already.
Have I made myself perfectly clear class?
CLASS!

[cl&l c.c. Tx]

I cut grass all day because I'm making a million dollars for someone else! Believe me if it was my money I would probably be paying one of you guys to cut MY grass! I started my business because this was really the only logical feild for me to go into. I like the work, I paid cash for all of my equipment (which I don't have very much). I don't think there are really to many businesses out there that you can get up and running on $4,000 and build it up to be a very large/profitable company rather quickly. So for now I'll keep making some other dude millions, while I build my little lawn mowin' business into the mega million dollar empire that I know it will become....... Just kidding, I'll be cool with just one million !

[wski4fun]

I mow lawns and when someone asks my profession, I tell them I'm a landscaper. Deal with it. FUSS

[TLS]

People ask me all the time why I still work my P/T job......

However, when I quickly explain it to them, they definately understand.

Fully paid benefits (Health, Dental, Rx, Vision, Legal, etc.). All I have to do is maintain at least 57hrs a month. Plus, it's decent paying, especially on Sunday's (time and a half). I work 3 days a week, which is ~15-20hrs, and when the winter comes, they bump me up to 35+hrs/week and understand when I call in "sick" when it snows.

There has to be other guys doing it strictly for the benefits.

Why should I pay out $1200/month for benefits when I can be getting paid for them?

[PMLAWN]

OK Please men let's get this correct now.
A Landscape business is not the same as a Lawn Maintenance business or a Lawn Care business.
Though you can build a business that does both things, a lawn guy who throws in some plants once in awhile and mulches is NOT a landscaper. Nothing wrong with doing lawn maint, I am not saying that at all. Just don't call yourself a landscaper and don't say your starting a Landscaping business when you are going to mow for a living. In this industry these jobs are Not considered the same and the titles of our professions should remain true to this industry.
Landscapers design and install new landscapes for their clients.
Lawn Maintenance people maintain landscapes that are existing already.
Have I made myself perfectly clear class?
CLASS!
The terminology That I go by--(and not to say it is right)-- Is as follows,
Landscaper, One that builds and creates a landscape-
Lawncare, Chemical treatment to maintain lawn and turf
Lawn maintenance, (or just "maintenance") the cutting and trimming of the landscape

[PMLAWN]

People ask me all the time why I still work my P/T job......

However, when I quickly explain it to them, they definately understand.

Fully paid benefits (Health, Dental, Rx, Vision, Legal, etc.). All I have to do is maintain at least 57hrs a month. Plus, it's decent paying, especially on Sunday's (time and a half). I work 3 days a week, which is ~15-20hrs, and when the winter comes, they bump me up to 35+hrs/week and understand when I call in "sick" when it snows.

There has to be other guys doing it strictly for the benefits.

Why should I pay out $1200/month for benefits when I can be getting paid for them?
Good point. the answer to your question is this-- Your time can only be spent one way in the 24 hours each day you have to spend it. You have expenses that need to be paid. You also have the ability to make a certain income with certain activities. So it is only up to you how you spend your time and which activities will net the best result.
So what you are saying is that you make less than $21.05 cutting grass, Right (you are spending 57 + hours to make that $1200 health beni. so when you get to the point of making 30 to 35 dollars an hour than it becomes better to stay with your LCO than to stop and go with someone else to work.
Good example

[TLS]

Good point. the answer to your question is this-- Your time can only be spent one way in the 24 hours each day you have to spend it. You have expenses that need to be paid. You also have the ability to make a certain income with certain activities. So it is only up to you how you spend your time and which activities will net the best result.
So what you are saying is that you make less than $21.05 cutting grass, Right (you are spending 57 + hours to make that $1200 health beni. so when you get to the point of making 30 to 35 dollars an hour than it becomes better to stay with your LCO than to stop and go with someone else to work.
Good example

I'm not quite sure where your going with this. Cant seem to understand if your congratulating me or slamming me.

Either way, you failed to understand that I'm getting paid $1230 for those 57 hrs that I work a month. And for 4 months of the year, I'm making money when the grass isn't growing.

[PMLAWN]

I'm not quite sure where your going with this. Cant seem to understand if your congratulating me or slamming me.

Either way, you failed to understand that I'm getting paid $1230 for those 57 hrs that I work a month. And for 4 months of the year, I'm making money when the grass isn't growing.
No Not a slam at all, I guess it did not read out right, Just saying that you got to work at what pays the best or pays out the most benefit to you,

My story at the start of this year is just like that. Running the Business paid good money but selling off, paying someone to do my stuff, and spending more time with Real Estate was a better return on my time. And I still make over $1000 cutting the 3 lawns that I still do. (My Church, a friend and a friends business)

[wski4fun]

I was going to go full time but also knew I wasn't going to expand in a big enough way that the extra time and aggravation is worth it. I am getting a job that has full benefits including a pension, 7 weeks off a year and 35 hrs a week. I live 5 mins away from this new job. I figure if I work the time I am saving by not traveling to a normal job, I can service 10 properties and make an extra 12k. To me it is equivalent to a 60K a year job with all the benefits and I will work less then the normal 2080 hr a year job.

[sheshovel]

I mow lawns and when someone asks my profession, I tell them I'm a landscaper. Deal with it. FUSS
Well your NOTdeal with that smartmouth.

[wski4fun]

Yes I am!:cool2: :cool2:

[sheshovel]

I mow lawns and when someone asks my profession, I tell them I'm a landscaper. Deal with it. FUSS
Well your NOTdeal with that smartmouth.
Deal with the fact that every time you tell someone that you are missleading them about the true scope of your knowlege and skills.
And if you said that to ME when I asked you what your profession is I would and will laugh right in your face. I don't know who you think you are speaking to me like that..but I do know who you are NOT.

[VMcNeill]

Many people are in the same boat as I am. Although I haven't even started in this business yet. My goal is to be full time in this business in 2008. That leaves me all of 2007 to succesfully grow to the point where I no longer need my job. If I had the money (at least 6+ months of personal expense plus three or four months of business expenses) then I would probably quit and make a go at it as a full time LCO. However I barely have enough to start the business and as such I will be stuck working 80-90 hours a week(with both jobs) next year. Not looking forward to it, but its the only way to both grow the business and provide for my famly. I can do one (take care of my family or grow the business) or the other but not both, at least during the 2007 season.

[sheshovel]

Yes I am!:cool2: :cool2:
HA HA HAAAA HA HA HAAAA

[wski4fun]

Sorry. I know what you are getting at but you are barking up the wrong tree with me. My 2 years working in a nursery and 3 years doing installs and stone work give me some credentials. I am also a software engineer, a carpenter, a personal trainer and a project manager. I mow lawns because it is relaxing and low stress. I certainly can and do advise my clients on a wide array of topics which include both landscaping and non landscaping topics. And you may be technically correct that some should not use that term and some of those probably shouldn't be called landscape maintenance either if knowledge, ability, and professionalism is concerned. Might it be we should start a knew thread on how you have been effected by a maintenance company claiming to be a landscaper?

[dvmcmrhp52]

Sorry. I know what you are getting at but you are barking up the wrong tree with me. My 2 years working in a nursery and 3 years doing installs and stone work give me some credentials. I am also a software engineer, a carpenter, a personal trainer and a project manager. I mow lawns because it is relaxing and low stress. I certainly can and do advise my clients on a wide array of topics which include both landscaping and non landscaping topics. And you may be technically correct that some should not use that term and some of those probably shouldn't be called landscape maintenance either if knowledge, ability, and professionalism is concerned. Might it be we should start a knew thread on how you have been effected by a maintenance company claiming to be a landscaper?


No, you should stop calling yourself a landscaper when you clearly are not.

[wski4fun]

How does one get into your secret society and who judges?

[JB1]

How does one get into your secret society and who judges?


i think some wear a hood.

[WJW Lawn]

Well your NOTdeal with that smartmouth.
Deal with the fact that every time you tell someone that you are missleading them about the true scope of your knowlege and skills.
And if you said that to ME when I asked you what your profession is I would and will laugh right in your face. I don't know who you think you are speaking to me like that..but I do know who you are NOT.


I happen to agree with Sheshovel. Mowing grass doesnt make you a landscaper...and basically you are lying. But you've obviously convinced yourself that you are...so have fun with that. Im not a landscaper...not qualified...not interested in designing and implementing landscapes. I do lawn care and maintence....I guess that makes me a lawyer?

[CELawn]

I happen to agree with Sheshovel. Mowing grass doesnt make you a landscaper...and basically you are lying. But you've obviously convinced yourself that you are...so have fun with that. Im not a landscaper...not qualified...not interested in designing and implementing landscapes. I do lawn care and maintence....I guess that makes me a lawyer?

Sorry to totally change the point of this thread, but I have been struggling with this issue myself. Basically I cut grass, but I also have a few customers that ask me to maintain their flowerbeds, prune their shrubs and small trees and generally take care of their "landscape." I also do some VERY basic landscape design and installation. I don't want to call myself a landscaper because I am not (in training or experience) but what do I call myself or this service that I provide?

[wski4fun]

What does qualify a landscaper and who quilifies them. Honest question.

[parkeeee]

Why do all lawn care folks have a second job?

I do not believe that all do. It would be unique to each individual and their situation.

For me personally I have worked outdoors in a park setting since I was 16 years old, which is 33 years ago.

I have long been out of the hands on type of 'lawn care' and decided to start a business which is how I found this valuable website.

I have always enjoyed lawn care, which to me is maintaining/upgrading lawns.

The business that I started is legal, small and something I could definitely see doing upon retirement.

[PMLAWN]

Sorry. . I am also a software engineer, a carpenter, a personal trainer and a project manager.
And you still have to cut grass to make a living,?? I do a lot of different things but they all revolve around real estate and the improvement and maintenance of it. Sorry but your comment brings up the phrase-- Jack of all--Master of non

[Brendan Smith]

i have a full time job because i need the benefits until my wife goes back to work.

[sheshovel]

Sorry to totally change the point of this thread, but I have been struggling with this issue myself. Basically I cut grass, but I also have a few customers that ask me to maintain their flowerbeds, prune their shrubs and small trees and generally take care of their "landscape." I also do some VERY basic landscape design and installation. I don't want to call myself a landscaper because I am not (in training or experience) but what do I call myself or this service that I provide?

A gardener.An LCO who is a gardner.

[daveintoledo]

in the winter, sometimes there isnt much snow, what to do, hay, i know ill get another job and work a while till spring

[sheshovel]

What does qualify a landscaper and who quilifies them. Honest question.
My state qualifies Landscapers and licences them. Yours may not do that.
16 years of doing this work qualifies me as well.
The fact that I don't mow or maintain landscapes puts me in the exclusive catagory of landscaper as well. It's all I do. But I did do maintenance when I started out. When I did that I called myself a gardner.

[PMLAWN]

Working 2 or more jobs, in and of itself is not a bad thing,, But the problem comes in when you do something that some do to support a family and make a living, and you just do it for fun or beer money and than just to get the work-- undercut the going rate just to have your "fun" this is what will cause the problems with the "real" LCO's and the hobby guys.
Work is work and this is hard work. weather it is for beer or food on the table-- Charge for your efforts and time and you will be respected much more than if you just look for the "quick buck" I have never in my life seen people "fight" for low wages and low income as I do in this industry. There are guys that come on here and tell about how good it is to undercut and charge low rates as if that was a good thing. Does anybody think this makes sense?????
I think not!! The time you put in on a mower has very little to do with it compared to the money per hour you bring in. This from a guy that puts very little in now compared to last year but makes more per hour than ever before.
If you want to make this your "career" than plan to make enough to really support your family. And totally support them. And even if that is not the case, realize that most guys are doing that and you need to do the same. and even better realize that YOU will make more because of it!!!!!

[lawnwizards]

My state qualifies Landscapers and licences them. Yours may not do that.
16 years of doing this work qualifies me as well.
The fact that I don't mow or maintain landscapes puts me in the exclusive catagory of landscaper as well. It's all I do. But I did do maintenance when I started out. When I did that I called myself a gardner.
who gives a crap what people call themselves. quit harping on it and stick to the original thread. geez.:dizzy:

[CELawn]

A gardener.An LCO who is a gardner.

In this area folks would think I'm trying to grow okra and tomatoes.

[PMLAWN]

who gives a crap what people call themselves. quit harping on it and stick to the original thread. geez.:dizzy:
She has a point that does match the topic, Most "landscapers" will charge for their work as they are the people that have the time and education to do that work,, Yet most Lawn boys are just tring to make a cheap dollar. big difference and something to respect as a part of this business.

[lawnwizards]

I was thinking about starting a landscaping business this spring. My only worry is that it seems 99% of landscapers have another full time job. Is there no money in it or is it just poor money management??
She has a point that does match the topic, Most "landscapers" will charge for their work as they are the people that have the time and education to do that work,, Yet most Lawn boys are just tring to make a cheap dollar. big difference and something to respect as a part of this business. oops, i stand corrected. he did wanna know that landscapers charge for their work and lawn boys work for beer. stupid me.

[wski4fun]

In my area also. A gardener around here are more respected and charge more than a landscaper. Anybody you ask around here for the most part would consider me a Landscaper. I guess it depends where you live and what customers think they are getting.

Back to the post. Doing the landscaping or maintenance side are very time consuming and costly to get off the ground to support a family. I think most people do it as a side business to supplement their income. I know lots of people that have two jobs or do work on the side. I enjoy the landscaping field but am at a point where it makes more sense for me to get a "regular job" and do the maintenance on the side. It takes a certain type of person to be successful doing any kind of landscaping full time. I mean that in a positive way.

[Runner]

The terminology That I go by--(and not to say it is right)-- Is as follows,
Landscaper, One that builds and creates a landscape-
Lawncare, Chemical treatment to maintain lawn and turf
Lawn maintenance, (or just "maintenance") the cutting and trimming of the landscape

Bam! That is cool, because there are so few in the green industry that actually know this. Lawn Care is actually a text term that is defined as just that IN college text. this IS a proper term, even though many that do mowing still refer to THAT as lawn care. I didnt know there was a difference until just a few years ago...and boy was I proven wrong!lol
And I would also like to add to this that yes, just because we've heard the term "landcare", it isn't an actual term,...it is more of a marketing jargon. And no, there IS no word - "lawnscaping" that we hear now and again. It is another play on words. :)

[PMLAWN]

oops, i stand corrected. he did wanna know that landscapers charge for their work and lawn boys work for beer. stupid me.Hang loose buddy, Not trying to cause a problem, but in my area there is a differance in the Landscaper and the Maintenance guy, some do both but most just do one and the Landscaper is the guy that is thought of as the guy that will improve the property and increase the value of it and the maintenance guy will do just that ---Maintain it, Both are real and worthwhile jobs but .in my area one will pay more than the other. Beer money has nothing to do with it but will affect the price of the jobs out there on the lower side, no doubt!!

I think The real topic was why most have other jobs and I tryed to answer that as best I could, I do not feel I am not far off. (but I have wrong before)

[sheshovel]

who gives a crap what people call themselves. quit harping on it and stick to the original thread. geez.:dizzy:

Uhhh excuse me? I was answering some members questions here not harping. But lemmie tell you I am going to START harping if a few don't learn some respect and use your manners around here.
I give a crap what people call themselves and people looking to hire landscapers give a crap what people call themselves and this industry as well as my state contracting board gives a crap what people call themselves.
You got that?

[sheshovel]

who gives a crap what people call themselves. quit harping on it and stick to the original thread. geez.:dizzy:

Yes I think I was sticking to the original thread topic because he said 99% of landscapers have a second job and that is just not true. All the Landscapers I know do it for a living, It is their career and their main source of income. It is mine and yes there is money in it if you do what I do. Lawnlizard is that becoming clear to you now?

[sheshovel]

Man it's like pulling teeth to get some people to understand and comprehend what we are discussing sometimes!

[lawnwizards]

Uhhh excuse me? I was answering some members questions here not harping. But lemmie tell you I am going to START harping if a few of you don't learn some respect and use your manners around here.
I give a crap what people call themselves and people looking to hire landscapers give a crap what people call themselves and this industry as well as my state contracting board gives a crap what people call themselves.
You got that?quit your bitching. my God! Thats all you do on here. you claim that you are so effing wise and yet all you do is harp and ***** and moan around here. its a constant 3 day month for you it seems. Why don't you come back here when you have some worthwhile info.:dizzy:

[heather lawn sp]

Bam! That is cool, because there are so few in the green industry that actually know this. Lawn Care is actually a text term that is defined as just that IN college text. this IS a proper term, even though many that do mowing still refer to THAT as lawn care. I didnt know there was a difference until just a few years ago...and boy was I proven wrong!lol
And I would also like to add to this that yes, just because we've heard the term "landcare", it isn't an actual term,...it is more of a marketing jargon. And no, there IS no word - "lawnscaping" that we hear now and again. It is another play on words. :)
I would like to add one more

landscape maintenance

Lawn maintenance For the school board its mow & go
landscape maintenance For the factories its tree maintenance, bed maintenance, turf maintenance & mowing

[heather lawn sp]

In my area also. A gardener around here are more respected and charge more than a landscaper. Anybody you ask around here for the most part would consider me a Landscaper. I guess it depends where you live and what customers think they are getting.

Back to the post. Doing the landscaping or maintenance side are very time consuming and costly to get off the ground to support a family. I think most people do it as a side business to supplement their income. I know lots of people that have two jobs or do work on the side. I enjoy the landscaping field but am at a point where it makes more sense for me to get a "regular job" and do the maintenance on the side. It takes a certain type of person to be successful doing any kind of landscaping full time. I mean that in a positive way.


When I think of the term 'gardener' I think of the caretaker of the old European estates. Kitchen garden, mowing (with the sheep), landscape renovation, landscape construction. The starting point from which all our disciplines arose

[Sandgropher]

How does one get into your secret society and who judges?

:rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :waving: :waving:

[Sandgropher]

Man it's like pulling teeth to get some people to understand and comprehend what we are discussing sometimes!

You usually do not have trouble making people understand Miss Shovel, i think you have been to nice to people lately, tell them in a laungauge they understand :laugh: :laugh:

[Busto963]

Sheshovel has every right to complain about "terminology" - as does every professional that has to be licensed and certified whether they are doctors, CPAs, engineers, master gardeners, electricians etc.

Beyond simple lying/misrepresentation; calling yourself a landscaper, means that you are undercutting the livelyhood of every landscaper that made the effort to actually earn the title. Its like a guy who gets an online law degree, but has not passed the BAR calling himself a lawyer. You may actually have the skills/knowledge/experience of a landscaper, but the odds are you do not. That makes you a menance to her profession.http://www.lawnsite.com/images/smilies/nono.gif

[lawnwizards]

Sheshovel has every right to complain about "terminology" - as does every professional that has to be licensed and certified whether they are doctors, CPAs, engineers, master gardeners, electricians etc.

Beyond simple lying/misrepresentation; calling yourself a landscaper, means that you are undercutting the livelyhood of every landscaper that made the effort to actually earn the title. Its like a guy who gets an online law degree, but has not passed the BAR calling himself a lawyer. You may actually have the skills/knowledge/experience of a landscaper, but the odds are you do not. That makes you a menance to her profession.http://www.lawnsite.com/images/smilies/nono.gifyou and sheshovel are correct in what you say. she just says it in an obnoxious tone. either you agree with her or youre a "punk" if shes so hellbent on making a point, why doesn't she just start her own thread and quit hijacking everyone else's. i would also like to apologize to her for my earlier comments, just she got under my skin a little and made me jump the gun. i would, however like to see a forum where everyone can have an opinion without getting slammed for it. good day everyone.

[1MajorTom]

I assume now that we can get back to original topic of this thread, without getting sidetracked with some name calling thrown in, insults, etc. We can only argue a point so long, then it's time to drop it.
thanks.

[wski4fun]

Ok to back to the post- I don't think you find to many "landscape businesses" that are part time. I do think you can find a lot of people that mow lawns and such doing part time. It can be inexpensive and easy to find one or two dozen customers and make some good cash. Also firefighters and teachers can be perfect jobs to do both. To be a legitimate landscaper or landscape maintenance business, I think is more then a full time job in itself. There are a lot of great people on here that will help you out and give you good advice if you want to go full time. Be warned though, don't call yourself a landscaper if you are mowing lawns! Some people might get upset! SCARY!

[Runner]

:waving: I would like to add one more

landscape maintenance

Lawn maintenance For the school board its mow & go
landscape maintenance For the factories its tree maintenance, bed maintenance, turf maintenance & mowing

Thank you, Heather. that is an excellent point and addition to what we were refering to. Much like the term "landscape management" that is so commonly used in the industry.
Sorry Jodi....:rolleyes: I just wanted to give credit to someone where it was due...:dancing:

Thank you....We will now return you to your original programming.

[fiveoboy01]

People ask me all the time why I still work my P/T job......

However, when I quickly explain it to them, they definately understand.

Fully paid benefits (Health, Dental, Rx, Vision, Legal, etc.). All I have to do is maintain at least 57hrs a month. Plus, it's decent paying, especially on Sunday's (time and a half). I work 3 days a week, which is ~15-20hrs, and when the winter comes, they bump me up to 35+hrs/week and understand when I call in "sick" when it snows.

There has to be other guys doing it strictly for the benefits.

Why should I pay out $1200/month for benefits when I can be getting paid for them?

Mainly why I'm still doing the full-time job.

If my business grows to the point where I need to quit my other job in the next few years, then I will.

But I enjoy my near-union benefits at my non-union full time job.

[sheshovel]

Lawnlizard started it in post #54. I accept your apology. Obnoxious tone me? I was unaware my tone could be heard here. If you know me then you know when I made that post I made it in a serious but lighthearted "tone". I did not hi-jack the thread, nor was I hellbent on making a point .I made one post to clarify industrial use of professional titles and then answered some questions. What you think of my personality has nothing to do with this site. If you have a problem with me and post it in public you can expect me to respond to that. Lawnlizard you are always welcome to read through my past posts here and THEN determine if there is any usefull info in them. I am sorry if my personality rubs you wrong but that is just the way I am, there is an IGNORE list available for your use in this forum, put me on it if you can't handle it.

[Runner]

...And NOW back to your original programming!...:walking:

[fiveoboy01]

Now, I have a question, and not trying to start any arguments.

PMLawn gave the definitions, which I agree with.

Lawn Care - Chemical applications, etc

Lawn Maintenance - Mowing, trimming

What about "Lawn Service"?

Would that fall more under the lawn maintenance definition, or be a combination of those two?

[sheshovel]

I'd say a Lawn Service would come under the same as Lawn maintenance. It would include mowing, edging, trimming, aeration, re-seeding and repair.

[Runner]

I agree.....I think it would fall more in that direction,..but COULD possibly inCLUDE lawn care for the full service companies. :)

[PMLAWN]

there is an IGNORE list available for your use in this forum, put me on it if you can't handle it.
i would never put you on IGNORE, whoops, I think that is off topic:nono:
Lets all realize that this is just a debate and not an argument:)
But you all have to know I am always right!!:) :laugh: :laugh:

[TLS]

But I enjoy my near-union benefits at my non-union full time job.

Mine happens to be Union, but part-time. :usflag:

[Prestige-Lawncare]

Quote:
Originally Posted by fiveoboy01

But I enjoy my near-union benefits at my non-union full time job.


Mine happens to be Union, but part-time. :usflag:

After almost 35 years in a union environment (both as a member, and a member of management) ... I can not wait to be completely away from that environment! Come next Spring, I will be leaving my full time employment, and concentrating full time on my business.

Not to say that maybe unions once had a place, and did maybe some good for the hourly worker ... things have changed over the years. Just take a look at the American automotive industry now-a-days. Living in Indiana, this state is a big employer in the automotive trade ... and there are many many changes taking place now that are costing thousands their jobs. The expense of buying a new car or truck is becoming too much for the American public.

I believe in equal rights, an honest days pay for an honest days work ... but some has gotten completely out of hand.

Okay ... let me have it!
:weightlifter: :usflag:

[VMcNeill]

After almost 35 years in a union environment (both as a member, and a member of management) ... I can not wait to be completely away from that environment! Come next Spring, I will be leaving my full time employment, and concentrating full time on my business.

Not to say that maybe unions once had a place, and did maybe some good for the hourly worker ... things have changed over the years. Just take a look at the American automotive industry now-a-days. Living in Indiana, this state is a big employer in the automotive trade ... and there are many many changes taking place now that are costing thousands their jobs. The expense of buying a new car or truck is becoming too much for the American public.

I believe in equal rights, an honest days pay for an honest days work ... but some has gotten completely out of hand.

Okay ... let me have it!
:weightlifter: :usflag:

My current work place is unionized. Its a cement plant, and the union has allowed us(hourly workers) a better standard of living than the other four non-union cement plants in our area(within 50 miles of our plant). Maybe things are different in Indiana, but around here management always makes way, way more money than even the highest paid union worker. A while back the plant manager let it slip that 23%(around 20 million dollars) of the plant's gross goes to wages. There are forty union workers which with benefits and everything would amount to 4 million tops. There are probably 90 white collar workers if you include all the non-union working stiffs that don't get dirty(quality control techs, customer service, etc.). Still 15 million is a lot of money to be divided between 90 people, especially since 50-60 of this people earn less than the average union guy. I know this is rather simplistic, especially since I didn't include the small army of most likely illegal laborers that keep the plant clean.
Management should make more money, their decisions make or break the plant and such they should get a bigger share of the pie. However, the hourly workers aren't chopped liver and should get their fair share.

[YardPro]

i am way late on this one, but i'll chime in and make a few people angry...LOL

those with poor business skills are the ones that have a other jobs. I can see someone needing other employment during the first year of two, but after that it can only be becuase of poor business skills.

the best landscaper, lawn maintenance person etc, can be a terrible business person.

I have seen a lot of people come and go in the 15 years i have been doing this. most fail due to poor business skills, not poor landscape skills...

I have even seen several succeed quite well with terrible landscape skills. This happens becuase they knew how to run a business.

[crawdad]

It seems to me, that the people who have two jobs, landscaping is their second job.
To some of us, the green industry is our one and only job.

[BBN]

I'm a "stupid lawn boy" who is stashing my net earnings into New Era Mutual Fund in the form of a Roth IRA. I don't drink so I have better plans for my money.

This is my second job because I've been working my first job since age 21(15 yrs) and can retire with full benefits and nearly maxed out pension(75%) in 14 years. I'd be dumb to walk away from that situation to do this as my one and only job but if I continue in this and it works out great for me I'll take it a step further when I retire from my first job and make landscaping a second career. Retiring at age 50, I'm definitely not going home to spend the rest of my years laying up on the couch.

[YardPro]

bbn,

you are one that falls into a category like crawdad stated..
lawncare is your second job, not your primary.

my post was refering to those that were trying landscapers who had to have part time jobs to make ends meet.

[BBN]

bbn,

you are one that falls into a category like crawdad stated..
lawncare is your second job, not your primary.

my post was refering to those that were trying landscapers who had to have part time jobs to make ends meet.
Oh no, it's all cool. I understand that there are people throwing a pushmower in their car trunk because they need the money for whatever reason. I just enjoy getting outdoors and I may as well earn some money in the process:walking: :)

[indy2tall]

Uhhh excuse me? I was answering some members questions here not harping. But lemmie tell you I am going to START harping if a few don't learn some respect and use your manners around here.
I give a crap what people call themselves and people looking to hire landscapers give a crap what people call themselves and this industry as well as my state contracting board gives a crap what people call themselves.
You got that?

Sheshovel, that will be quite enough! :nono: :nono: Go to your room right now and don't come out till I tell you to.

Also young lady, tonight there will be no TV or dinner for you! :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

[cut_n_run]

Ahhh yes I have seen you around town