SW Missouri-Springfield/Branson

[castlerockmo]

Just wanted to know who was from my neck of the woods!

[pdenney11]

Im from Joplin if thats close enough for you.

[castlerockmo]

joplin is close. do you work in springfiled alot? is there alot of work in joplin?

[pdenney11]

There really isnt much work in Joplin. My father lives in Ozark so I bid jobs in Springfield and I stay with him If it's a job thats going to take a few days to finish. Joplin has a few companies that have been around a while that maintain almost all of the comm. mowing accts. All of the others are maintained by push mower in the back of S-10 type businesses. You really have to do a lot of work around here to gain a good customer base and profit. Ive been working on it for 3 years as hard as I only have about half as many as I want.

[castlerockmo]

Oh I here ya kinda that way in branson as far as everyone and their brother mowing! But there is jobs! Between springfield and branson areas.I have spent a lot in advertizing and its finally starting to pay off. I too only have about half the mowing accts I want!
Posted via Mobile Device

[pdenney11]

This year I started to offer more services instead of just mowing and fertilizing. I am trying to get into landscaping, lighting and chem apps. Do you have your pesticide applicators license?

[castlerockmo]

No, u? The suppiers told me that dry fert you don't have to in missouri. But I really need to go get its just a matter of making time
Posted via Mobile Device

[pdenney11]

Same here. I ordered the study materials from the MU extension but havent had a chance to sign up for the exam yet.
Posted via Mobile Device

[METRO FS]

Just saw your post so another one of us has crawled out of the Missouri woodwork. I am near Joplin, MO but spent many years in the Branson area. Most of the 80's were spent working at the resorts and lodges. I still have connections and friends in the area and I do some lawn pest work in the area as well. There are a number of service providers in that area but as I rekindle my old friendships I am getting referrals and slowly starting to penetrate that market - especially the resort work. Amazing Blades is right about Joplin being sewn up. There are some companies that have been around for along time and acquired a big share of the market. I have spoken to several when we crossed paths when moleing and mowing and found that many only worked a 5 mile radius of Joplin and stayed busy year round with mowing, fall cleanups and more. I, too, have been studying for my applicators license and recently attended a training seminar in Springfield. It was very beneficial to have MU specialists going over the manuals and prepping you for the test. I only need it in case I want to use repellents which are considered pesticides. Networked with several others from the area as well. Looking forward to meeting everyone again this spring. Anyway I'll cut out and wait for the big snow to blow in. Take care guys -

[castlerockmo]

Thanks for stoping by metro. Hopefully we will cross paths one day in the big city of branson. Hahha
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

Nixa here

Im glad to finally find people in my area.

[castlerockmo]

What's up denbow how's nixa treating ya? Do lots of work in Stown?
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

i try to stay in nixa as much as I can, but I do go to springfield, and even willard for a couple.

[castlerockmo]

Do I do a lot of ads or just word of mouth? Just curious to see how other guys in our area been doin it. I have spent to much money on phone book ads!
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

well funny you ask cause im in the same boat, i just finished college and this is my first full time year. Im really debating right now to letter up my back window on my truck.

[castlerockmo]

That's funny cause both my trucks are. Today I was at lowes in ozark and a man pulled up next to me and wanted a bussiness card. So that to me is a must. Check a round I think I paid 75 for my back glass with like 3 or 4 colors and 100 for the doors on another truck. We did u go to school
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

Where did you get your glass done at? and can you post a pic, I need ideas? I went to college in Bolivar at SBU

[castlerockmo]

I got em done at Sharp Signs in Forsyth. They do a ton of work around here and good prices. A Bearcat huh?
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

Yes I was, track and cross country. I may check them out and see what they can do for me.
Posted via Mobile Device

[eaglescout1993]

im in Springfield, i am also looking into geting some glass all lettered up, know of any one in the SPFG area?

[castlerockmo]

The guy that owns sahrp signs was going to sell franchises at one time and only should one. That guy is in springfield if he is still in the bizz. I would look up in the phone book under signs.
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

So when I go and look under signs, what company do I need to find?
Posted via Mobile Device

[castlerockmo]

See if sharp signs in springfields there. The sharp signs in forsyth is great they have treated me right the past few years. But I just called around when I first started. There is a place in ozark on 14 by murphins market. I think its called A+ signs.
Posted via Mobile Device

[METRO FS]

Here's another good company in Springfield. http://www.qtsign.com/index.html

[OrangeToys]

thanks thats actually the company im talking to, i have had them do some work for me in the past and they are extremly nice and easy to work with. Im waiting on a proof from him for my back window.

But in another thread I started yesterday everyone seems to think that doing the window is a bad idea and most prefer the tailgate. What do you all think?

[castlerockmo]

I liked the window for the fact it wouldn't leave any thing on my truck. When I bought my 2nd truck I put it om the doors. The reasoning behind that was if I pulled through an intersection or parking everyone could see my name. On the back I was limited to people following me who see my name. The bad thing about the rear window is that a car behind you can only see the top half of the window, the tailgate is better in that aspect.but any of them have their pros and cons. I know someone suggested magnets, I had some but they flew off goning down the road and they scratch the paint all to heck.that just 2cents.
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

I liked the window for the fact it wouldn't leave any thing on my truck. When I bought my 2nd truck I put it om the doors. The reasoning behind that was if I pulled through an intersection or parking everyone could see my name. On the back I was limited to people following me who see my name. The bad thing about the rear window is that a car behind you can only see the top half of the window, the tailgate is better in that aspect.but any of them have their pros and cons. I know someone suggested magnets, I had some but they flew off goning down the road and they scratch the paint all to heck.that just 2cents.
Posted via Mobile Device

Every that you said is basically what i have been trying to decide on all week

[castlerockmo]

I think I would do the tailgate. If I could I would put it on my gate of the 2nd truck
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

I'm getting my back window done next week I'm just waiting on the proofs
Posted via Mobile Device

[castlerockmo]

Post pics! Who's doining it? You going to the garden show this weekend at the E-plex.
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

I can't post pics yet cause I'm using my phone right now but as soon as I can can home on monday ill be sure to post a pic of either the proofs or what I'm getting. The company I'm using is truck sign design, I spoke with them for about 2hrs and they have the best price and quality. There website is trucksigndesign.com
I planned on going to the show but I went out of town at the last minute. I really want to go too, do you know when its over?
Posted via Mobile Device

[castlerockmo]

Sunday at 11-5. I am goning to head up there this afternoon. I have heard of them. Either I have seen their shop or heard radio ads or both maybe. I hope it turns out the way you want.
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

Dang I won't be home till about 5, I may try to head home early. Take some pics if u can
Posted via Mobile Device

[castlerockmo]

I left my camera. I will try with my phone. I'm in s-town now, getting some lunch before I head over with the fam
Posted via Mobile Device

[castlerockmo]

If any body go to the lawn and garden show you have to check out the new yazoo-kees max3. Best mower there hands down!!!!
Posted via Mobile Device

[Rayholio]

What's up Fellas! Ray with GreenScape Fertilization & Weed Control..

We Specialize in... wait for it.. Fertilization and Weed control! :) Do a 'little' landscaping.. mainly dirtwork, grading etc. in preperation for sod.. I'm a turf specialist.. I also have a few landscape management accounts where I handle everything.. but mainly thru subcontractors..

I REALLY like networking with mower guys, and similar business's in joplin, because I'm not in competition with 'em.. They send me work because I'm not tur-green.. and I send them work whenever someone asks about a service they provide..

I'm in Joplin, and the market out here is developing fast.. There actually is a lot of work out here for mower guys.. All the big ones I work with (the lawn guy, Turf cutters, etc) are full up on clients.. about the only way that they take on new is if it's a next door neighbor to someone they allready work for..

You fellas should drop by the chemical applicators forum on here, and read my survey post.. some local market information in there that you may find interesting.

I would LIKE to expand to springfield.. I'm still developing joplin, neosho, and carthage ATM..

Check out my web site, or come visit with me at the Joplin Home show at hammons trade center (this fri-sat-sun)

PS Glad I decided to do a forum search for 'joplin'! :)

[Rayholio]

oh! just noticed that you guys are looking for sign making companies.. I baught a vinyl cutter, and I can make just about anything you could want for truck graphics etc.. I'll give ya a good price, or even trade!

[OrangeToys]

im actually in the finalizing of getting mine made.

I just looked at your website and I think its laid out good. im hoping to be able to talk to a guy today about getting one. thats the only thing stoping me from giving the go ahead on finishing my letter for my truck, cause im putting the website on it if i get it. What do you think about have a website? do you get work from it?

[maelawncare]

You guys sure do talk alot. lol

Im alittle ways away. but still somewhat close

[castlerockmo]

Were u at mae
Posted via Mobile Device

[maelawncare]

look at my location

[castlerockmo]

Can't I'm on my phone my inrternet is down!
Posted via Mobile Device

[Rayholio]

My Website does pay for itself.. I wouldn't say that I get A LOT of work from it.. but the web presence is how people learn about my business after hours, and how big companys running national contracts get ahold of me..

They're probably over rated.. but worth havin'

[maelawncare]

My Website does pay for itself.. I wouldn't say that I get A LOT of work from it.. but the web presence is how people learn about my business after hours, and how big companys running national contracts get ahold of me..

They're probably over rated.. but worth havin'

They are defiantly NOT over rated. I have made more profit, yes profit, from my website in the past year than the website will cost me to run in the next 20 years.

A lot of people dont think about the national chains taking a look at you from your website. 2 years ago i picked up a large one just from my website, its a $3,000 a month contract year round. I would not have gotten it if i did not have my website.

Oh and im in Rolla btw.

[OrangeToys]

post your website link

[castlerockmo]

denbowm,
you shop over at nixa hardware? Just seen you had a ton of sthl products.

[OrangeToys]

Thats the only place I shop for equipment (mowers and handhelds)

[OrangeToys]

well here it is the new look of the truck (well kinda)
http://www.lawnsite.com/showthread.php?p=3443789#post3443789

[castlerockmo]

Thats the only place I shop for equipment (mowers and handhelds)

If you ever want to shop or look around, Loftis in ozark is my dealer his prices are better than anyone around hes a husqvarna and sthl dealer. Get guy and dealership.

[castlerockmo]

well here it is the new look of the truck (well kinda)
http://www.lawnsite.com/showthread.php?p=3443789#post3443789 Looks good man, How much was it? Mine is just vinyl. I really like it!:dancing:

[OrangeToys]

i paid $130+tax. I was gonna do the vynal but then they showed me the something else and i saw the advantages to it and bought it.

[castlerockmo]

You guys getting any work done the last few weeks. Its been hard for me to squeeze all my lawns in between the rain and TORNADOS.

[Rayholio]

LOL it's pretty rough out there... I'm hoping to get a LOT done tomorrow... prolly be workin' the weekend too.... WAY behind!

[castlerockmo]

im goning to have to work this weekend as well. Kinda sucks thought my house was going to float away last night

[Perfect touch landscapes]

Selling accounts in springfield mo and equipment. Will not last need to sell out in two weeks

[castlerockmo]

Send me a PM let's talk about it.
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

Send me a pm too, im in Nixa and I spend most of my week in Springfield.

[OrangeToys]

whats a good place in the area to get oak mulch in bulk (like semi). Im bidding on 125yrds, and need to get some prices.

[castlerockmo]

Cutburth and sons in ava. That's were most the suppliers around here gety it. I forget what we were paying per yard for it in 2006 I want to say it was less than 10 a yard but I could be way off.
Posted via Mobile Device

[pdenney11]

Anyone in the area have a cheap 36" walk behind mower they want to get rid of? I just need one for a few properties and do not want to invest much money into it. I havent seen anything on craigslist lately.

[castlerockmo]

Sorry all I have is a 48
Posted via Mobile Device

[pdenney11]

Sorry all I have is a 48
Posted via Mobile Device

You still want 1100.00 for it?

[castlerockmo]

Ill take 1000.
Posted via Mobile Device

[pdenney11]

I will keep you posted castlerockmo if I can't find a 36" here shortly.
Posted via Mobile Device

[castlerockmo]

Sounds good
Posted via Mobile Device

[twcw5804]

Hey guys, i'm headed your way on vacation the week of July 11th. Looking for some good fishing spots in your area, my wife and I have not fished in years. Maybe a small creek or river area.

Also heading to Cloud 9 ranch for a few days in Caufield, my in-laws have a membership and four wheelers.

[Rayholio]

Lots of good fishing 'round here... stop by a sporting good shop to get your license, and ask the fella at the counter.. :)

[castlerockmo]

Cloud 9 is down the highway from me! What are you wanting toi catch?
Posted via Mobile Device

[twcw5804]

Anything, my wife and I are just doing it for fun not for eating are anything. IF I catch some trout while at cloud 9 I may fry some up.

[twcw5804]

how far way from cloud 9 are you?

[castlerockmo]

I'm about 45 min. I live about 25 min from branson, just E of a town called forsyth. Your not going to find a lot of trout here the only place your going to find trout is in lake taneycomo, both brown and rainbow. As far as bass you can find them just about everywhere( such as the creeks that feed the lake like james river, swan creek, beaver creek etc, also bull shoals lake and table rock lake) but less likely in taneycomo. I would stay off of tablerock this week it crazy busy this time of year, bull shoals is a local fav not a lot of people on it( great for skiing and wake boarding). If you want to catch garr bull shoals and table rock, if you want walleye you will want to go to bull shoals. You can catch catfish anywhere really. Oh and a lot of perch. I live almost right on bull shoals. Forsyth sits in the middle of bull shoals and taneycomo.
Posted via Mobile Device

[alf500series]

from branson also---if you get in town and get all the fishing u want in, and decide to see a show, drop me a line. got lots of connections and can tell you which are the best ones to see.

[twcw5804]

Castle, thanks for the recommendations. My wife and I will be in Springfield for a few days and then heading down to cloud 9. I remember when I was little visiting my great Gma in Westplains and we went and fished a little stream somewhere around there. Don't remember how far away it was. I have no clue where it was but I remember getting paid for the fish that I caught. Any ideas where that may have been? It was over 20 years ago though.

[castlerockmo]

Man I have no clue I just stick around the tri-lakes area. I really don't go fishing anymore, never have time.
Posted via Mobile Device

[alf500series]

try this for your cloud 9:

http://www.cloud9ranch.com/about-cloud9-ranch/location-cloud9-ranch.html

[pdenney11]

Only place I have ever gone trout fishing is Roaring River by Cassville.
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

do any of you guys snow plow?

[dlingner]

I work in Branson. Mostly mowing. Second year in business. I am thinking of offering lawn care apps next year to my customers. Most don't do anything to their lawn... but I think there are some that would utilize it. I have to get certified and all I know. I did this for ten years in Kansas City, so nothing new to me, except some new plants and grasses down here.

A couple questions for you guys:

Where do you buy your lawn chemicals and seed?

How do you seed these rocky lawns?

Thanks! Great to meet you all.

Dave

[castlerockmo]

Seed the rocky lawns with bermuda lol!

I buy my stuff from EWING in springfield. There is not a place in branson so we have to go up there.
Posted via Mobile Device

[dlingner]

Don't you seed bermuda earlier in the year during its growing season?

Thanks.

[alf500series]

where is ewing at?

[castlerockmo]

On sunset. If you take 60 to kansas expressway turn right on kansas. Take kansas down to sunset turn left on sunset. Sunset is the light after battlefield there is a gas station on the corner of kansas and sunset. When you turn left on sunset ewing is the 3rd drive on the right I think you will see the sign and their truck sitting out front.
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

what type of chemicals do they sell at ewing? and prices?

[castlerockmo]

Pbi gordons stuff likw Q4 n 992 n surge. And others go in n check it out talk with scott. Their prices are better than JDL.
Posted via Mobile Device

[OrangeToys]

I need to get a good spreader what do you suggest?

[castlerockmo]

Ewing has a cub cadet wich is just a lesco. I'm not real picky about a spreader, like I am my small engines.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Lanebrain]

hey all, new guy on site here. :waving:
I'm not in the game yet but considering getting into it small time (just solol, residential stuff . . . I guess)

I'm kinda curios if the market is saturated around here? Nixa - Ozark, and S Spfd.

Tia

[castlerockmo]

Holy cow you can't sit at a stop light in being nixa Ozark n not see about 3 or four trucks. I do more in Branson and been trying to work my way into the Springfield market. It has been hard and I have done slot of advertising.
Posted via Mobile Device

[pdenney11]

hey all, new guy on site here. :waving:
I'm not in the game yet but considering getting into it small time (just solol, residential stuff . . . I guess)

I'm kinda curios if the market is saturated around here? Nixa - Ozark, and S Spfd.

Tia

Just think about it long and hard before you jump into it. You have to fight hard to make a good living cutting grass in this economy. Im pretty sure the market is saturated in every town. The drought this year has been awful for us. We had 3 weeks downtime this summer since it was so hot and dry nothing was growing in our area.

Seems like alot of people ive talked to in my area just want to get into it because they see a few of the larger lawn maint companies in SWMO that have 3 or 4 new Diesel trucks, nice new trailers full of brand new mowers, skid steers and all sorts of other nice new equipment. They just think its a business that will make you rich but they dont realize those guys might be 300k in debt. Not trying to talk you out of it but do not do it because you think you are going to end up making a fortune. Do it because you have experience in this type or work and will actually enjoy the type of work involved.

[OrangeToys]

hey all, new guy on site here. :waving:
I'm not in the game yet but considering getting into it small time (just solol, residential stuff . . . I guess)

I'm kinda curios if the market is saturated around here? Nixa - Ozark, and S Spfd.

Tia

Its to saturated, and all the yards are being mowed:laugh:

[Andy31]

I know it was asked already but I didn't see any response regarding if any of you plow?
Any of yall know Greg who used to have ,or maybe still does, Dr. Greenthumb?
What is your mowing season typically? how many cuts per year?

[castlerockmo]

Bout 32 cuts n i plow
Posted via Mobile Device