Wisconsin Fox Valley and beyond.

[BeautifulBlooms]

Thanks for your insight Irrig8tion, as of right now we are staying out of the irrigation sifde of things. We decided it wouldnt be cost effective to do so, but I will offer emergency repairs or things like that to my already existing customers, but it is not a service we are going to advertise just yet. We are better off focussing our attention on the landscape and lawn maintenance until we get much bigger when we have more customers who might need us to do their irrigation maintenance.

[MOW ED]

Hi Mike,
I have a program that was designed for me a few years back that works very well here. In the last few years I have also tweaked the program to reduce the phosphorous to the first application and I am going to see if that can be reduced to zero (I think eventually the state will mandate zero phos) The heavy clay here holds on to stuff pretty well.
I am going to revisit my application info and tweak it to make it better if possible. I have to start doing something different unless I can talk my customers into paying between 5 and 50 dollars more per application. I am hoping that the die hard customers sympathize with me and stay the course but either way I am not going to be losing money.
Something has to change in this economy, I wish I knew.

[LawnsRUsInc.]

Mow ed how many apps are you doing a year? I am trying to revise my apps also. Yea i agree with you and the prices of things are going threw the roof!! I have people that wonder why my prices are going up and its hurting my clients are not making that much more money for example i have a client that pays 400 for 1 salt app now they are paying $930. I knew fert prices were going up this year so i raised prices when we sent out contracts last fall, hope it was enough.

[LawnsRUsInc.]

Yea mike i agree with you on irrigation i would wait till your co. is larger otherwise you might spread to thin. I would talk to a local cont. that does it and if a client is looking for it refer them over to the other co. it might go alot further for you cause then his clients might be looking for somthing that you offer. I refer a guy that does only commercial const. 100k or more jobs and he signs me up for the maint. and in the 3 years that we have been doing this deal he has filled 1/2 a maint. crew for me.

[MOW ED]

I have 2 programs although I do custom apps for certain folks as they "WERE" worth the money in the past. I have a 4 ap and a 5 ap program for fert. Its along with either 1 or 2 sprays for weeds. So its 4 and 1, 4 and 2 or 5 and 2.
Some people only want a fall feeding or a spring spraying so I check to see if it is worth the bother and it usually was.
I don't want to start reducing product just to stay in a price range but I have to look closer at the possibility. I know there are more expensive fert options as well as some cheaper but I am really shying away from cheap fert. I only do granular fert apps and my business has been built on this so going liquid fert isn't an option for me.

[extlights]

Hello everyone. I've been on lawnsite for awhile but just now saw this thread. Our company is based out of East Troy and we are strictly an architectural and landscape lighting company. Our territory consists of Northern IL (Northshore to Barrington area) Lake Geneva up towards Mequon and occasionally out to Madison. We do a lot of work in the Brookfield/Waukesha area as well.

It's nice to see other locals on a site like this discussing ideas. I'll make sure I keep checking back to this thread now that I know it's here.

Take care.

[MOW ED]

Hi Dave welcome to the Cheese thread! Sounds like you are in the high end market with some of those addresses. Have you found any downturn in business in this current market? Up here in Green Bay its hit and miss. Some of the working class have scaled back but my higher ends have no care about cost to this point. I am suspecting the same in the Il/WI boarder area.
Do you have a website? Just curious to mayby see some of your work. Take care.

[extlights]

Well hopefully this snow will be gone after this week and we can get to work! As far as our target market goes, yes it's generally the higher end customer but we occasionally get calls from other people as well. We've done work on $300,000 homes all the way up to multi-million dollar properties. I'd have to say that the average home that we do work on is probably in the $800,000-$1.5 million range.

The thing that I've noticed is that although the higher end customers still spend money, there is still a bit of a slow down with them when the economy gets bad. A lot of times they are just like everyone else....just because they have a big house and fancy cars doesn't necessarily mean they have money, they just have larger monthly payments. When the economy gets to be like this, networking with others in the trades is huge considering the insane cost of advertising these days. I'm glad I found this thread...who knows maybe some of us can work together and make it a good year..(those of us who are not competitors that is.) :)

As far as our website goes, we are getting it revamped for the new season. We just hired a photographer to get some good pictures and our webdesigner is just waiting on those to get the site done. I'll let you know when it's finished. (hopefully soon since the season is almost upon us!)

[PR Fect]

Dave, welcome! I look forward to sharing ideas with you. Don't worry about that competitor thing to much. You will find out as us guys in the Valley did that we can all be an asset to each other even if we share the same customer base. There will always be a call or a customer that you can not handle for some reason. Too big, too small, no time, wrong area, service you do not provide, I could go on and on. We pass the ones we can't handle on to those who can, with the understanding that they will do the same. It has worked very well with others on this thread that are in the same area. We have even shared equipment from one and other.
I do have a question for you guys. With the new state rules (NR-151) on being able to fert large properties that went into effect March 3rd, how many properties over the 5 acre rule do you think there is? I was thinking about offering the service of writing management plans for those who want to fert their large properties. I just wonder if there will be a market for the service. Any guesses? PR

[BeautifulBlooms]

Does the 5 acre rule stand for turf area or the property area? I havent read up on the NR 151 because I didnt expect it to affect me, but it might if I am able to get some of the commercial properties I am looking into.

[PR Fect]

Mike, its for ferted areas, IE turf, planting beds, ect. Aggregate areas and building or structure areas excluded. You are not allowed to put down any fert of pesticides with out a nutrient management plan submitted to the state. The plan gets rather involved, soil samples, area photos, some use GPS. You do need to be certified in some field of turf care to be able to summit a plan to the DNR. Do you think there is a market for offering the compliance service? PR

[BeautifulBlooms]

I suppose calling yourself a Nutrient Management Plan Consultant would work, you could certainly market that to all properties that have over 5 acres of turf. I am not sure how you would get in the door as they might just think it is a scam. You might have to include documentation to prove what you are telling them is true. How long would you expect a plan to take to write up? A few hours? I mean that is time you should be compensated for sure.

One thing I think could work really well is hooking up with all those small companies that dont have the personnel to do that sort of research. I know a lot of lawn and landscape people probably wouldn't want to have to write that report. You could sell your service to them so that they don't have to do the plans. Or is this illegal to write a plan for a different company who would be doing service?

[PR Fect]

Mike, I was told that at one place the base rate for doing a plan is $250.00. You then charge hourly for the field work that needs to be done. Soil tests and mileage fees. To do the completed plan could go $1500, but I would think if you stayed in your area and the site was small (5-6 acre) you could do one for $600-$700 and cover your costs and still make it worth wile. My thinking you wold not have more than 10-12 hours involved. But my big question remains. I sill draw a blank trying to think of how many are out there that have that much lawn and do fert it. 218K is allot of grass! Working with others that do the fert I do not believe is a problem.PR

[extlights]

Just out of curiosity, do many of you guys ever get inquiries from clients about lighting? I always wondered if it ever caught on in other parts of the state.

[BeautifulBlooms]

Our company is focussed primarily on maintenance so we wouldn't get a lot of questions about it. It is something along with irrigation we are considering adding but want to make sure we build the maintenance portion of our business as much as possible to start. Then as we get bigger and require more equipment we may be able to add those installation services, but right now we are limiting ourselves on the equipment and other things to what we focus on.

I do see it as a great add on to somoene who does full installations.

[MOW ED]

Dave,
I am a really small operation and am focused on maintenance more than any installation. I can tell you that in my 13 years that no one has asked me about lighting but then again I don't market my business on that end at all.
I am not at the extremely high end user either. I have a few customers who are very wealthy but as a rule these places are already up and running and aren't into doing anything different. My big user is the widow and they are really not too interested in making things look better, just making sure it looks neat and taken care of.

[extlights]

Thanks for the responses....I was just curious if it has caught on in other parts of the state. We've worked with some lco's in the past who have gotten requests and vice versa. I will say that probably 99% of our clients do have a lawn care company take care of their property and we've gotten asked by some of them if we know any good lco's. I guess when you develop a good relationship with a customer and you gain their trust, they also trust your recommendations on other contractors. Customer service is everything.

[IRRIG8TION]

I am looking to join a med to large landscape design build and maint company that does not offer full service irrigation. I would like to head a division in irrigation. I have all the equipment needed to run the dep, and over 12 years of irr exp. I hold any lisc and certfrom state fed and prod manufacture. I would like to stay in the Wisc area, but would be willing to go out further dep on the company and the deal. If anyone is interested, let me know. I have all my docs and info available to provide to you.
Let me know of any interest. Jacob

[IRRIG8TION]

I would also consider going south into Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Ark., Tex., New Mex., or South Cal. Out of the cold. I can be emailed at siegjacob@yahoo.com As I said, I have all of the needed hardware, equipment and industry connections. I have installed systems up to golf size, and have my own design cad programs, accounting programs etc... I want to join a company that has a large number of maint customers with irr. that you could take over as full service..

Jacob Sieg

[MOW ED]

Who got slammed with the snow?
I had a great warm 65 degree weekend and yesterday afternoon it was 36 and falling. Not only was the rain falling the temperature did too and by 6:30 I was sitting in a sleet to snowstorm watching 22 girls trying to play soccer on a field that hid the ball.
The game was called after 40 minutes because the field was a snow covered mud pit. I am glad it wasn't our home field.

I am thinking I am out of business for a few days here as Mother Nature reveals her cold miserable side again. So much potential, so little time.
I know, its Wisconsin!

[PR Fect]

Spring clean ups, lawn de-thatch's, lot sweeping, 1st round lawn fertilization, and spreading salt-snow and ice removal all in the same day! Today I do not know where to start. Just keep jumping around and burning gas, trying to shrink the list. PR

[BeautifulBlooms]

I have been posting on craigslist for months and it isnt that I expected miracles from this site, but we have simply not found anyone who is qualified or wants to work as a crew leader. I think we are offering the right wage, but so far no real standouts, and its been months. I have posted with MATC and not gotten one application from that posting.

Where do you Milwaukee guys find good qualified help. I am not asking for a person with 10 years experience, but someone with at least some experience in the industry or at the very least be willing to learn a new position. We are in need of a crew leader now as my wife and I are so busy doing bids and sales calls we need to have a full time crew going. We already have two helpers but they are not ready to be drivers and crew leaders, they need some more seasoning before being entrusted with those responsibilities.

Someone help me out, this is keeping us from getting a lot of work because we just cant get the bids out quick enough to get a lot of this work.

Mike

[E & J Pro Turf]

Angry man shoots lawn mower for not starting

Fri Jul 25, 11:41 PM ET

MILWAUKEE - A Milwaukee man was accused of shooting his lawn mower because it wouldn't start. Keith Walendowski, 56, was charged with felony possession of a short-barreled shotgun or rifle and misdemeanor disorderly conduct while armed.
ADVERTISEMENT

According to the criminal complaint, Walendowski said he was angry because his Lawn Boy wouldn't start Wednesday morning. He told police quote, "I can do that, it's my lawn mower and my yard so I can shoot it if I want."

A woman who lives at Walendowski's house reported the incident. She said he was intoxicated.

Walendowski could face up to an $11,000 fine and six years and three months in prison if convicted.

A call to Walendowski's home went unanswered Friday morning.

[MOW ED]

First they are trying to take Titletown away, then Brett doesn't want to play for the beloved Pack, Miller decides to put the World Headquarters in Chicago of all places and you are blaming this poor guy for bustin a cap in his mower.

Oh the topper was an intoxicated woman reported it. Its hard to find someone sober these days.

[Cranky Bait]

If someone can help me on plowing leads I would appreciate it.

[Swampy]

I have been posting on craigslist for months and it isnt that I expected miracles from this site, but we have simply not found anyone who is qualified or wants to work as a crew leader. I think we are offering the right wage, but so far no real standouts, and its been months. I have posted with MATC and not gotten one application from that posting.

Where do you Milwaukee guys find good qualified help. I am not asking for a person with 10 years experience, but someone with at least some experience in the industry or at the very least be willing to learn a new position. We are in need of a crew leader now as my wife and I are so busy doing bids and sales calls we need to have a full time crew going. We already have two helpers but they are not ready to be drivers and crew leaders, they need some more seasoning before being entrusted with those responsibilities.

Someone help me out, this is keeping us from getting a lot of work because we just cant get the bids out quick enough to get a lot of this work.

Mike

Hey mike call me 262-490-2883. I'm a MATC student but never saw your posting. I got a resume in waiting. As long as you don't mind my second job of cutting trees for lumber.

Cranky: seriously man good luck, you best bet is to sign on to a company I.E. Central Services. That hire trucks, equipment, and drivers for snow removal.

[ambersLawnmowing]

If someone can help me on plowing leads I would appreciate it.

You want to work together? I have a few people coming up to me asking if i do plowing, Answer is no i do snowblowing, mostly resi, If you are insured and do good work i will get alot of plowing accounts and pass them to you?? P.M me if that would work.. I mow in Neenah/Appleton/Oshkosh and man i am ready for it to snow a ton like last year to get some money built up after the summer i had..

If anyone needs Snowblowers/throwers i have alot of them, most used but have 2 new ones left... Give you guys a great deal on them..

[Cranky Bait]

I need to do some more posting before I can PM you Ambers maybe you can PM me. I guess I need 10 post before the PM starts.

[Cranky Bait]

Swampy I not familar with I E Service can you PM and give me a clue?

Thanks,
Cranky

[Swampy]

So they found emerald ash borer a few weeks ago in Washington county.

Anybody got a plan as to yet whats going to happen or what they are going to to?

[PSUturf]

State officials are still studying their options. They've known for 4 years that the bug was coming but they are still studying their options. For now their is a quarantine in the infested counties restricting the movement of ash nursery stock, ash lumber, ash logs, ash anything.

Michigan tried to contain it by cutting down every ash within 1/2 mile of an infested tree. $27 million later it is spreading from state to state. If you know someone with a valuable specimen ash they should contact a certified, reputable arborist to discuss treatment option. Studies in Michigan have shown pretty good (but not total) control with certain contact and systemic insecticides. The trees will have to be treated every year in order to protect them. Researchers are studying the possibility of natural predators of EAB from Asia that could possibly be introduced here. It takes several years to ensure that an introduced predator will not become a destructive pest of desirable plants or insects.

[Swampy]

I really don't see the quarantine being to effective. Its not that I don't have faith in our elected officials, but they are trying to control a insect. Its going to spread regardless.

I'd personally like to treat them on our own accord, to keep everything in house unless we need a specialist such as arborist. Majority (about 40%) of the trees on the properties that we maintain are either green or white ash trees.

[PR Fect]

Cutting down trees in an effected area does not work. People spread EAB anyway. But I did hear also that removal is one option the state whats to do. Merit treatments can be effective from what I have read. But after you spend money treating your tree. And the guy next to you does not treat his ash. When his Ash has EAB and gets cut down to stop the spread, so will yours. And then you wasted all those yearly or by-yearly treatments. PR

[Swampy]

PR: I can see that problem being with HOA's where you treat the common ground trees but not the privately own trees. Which in my opinion sucks, you do all this work to save mature trees when the home owner does nothing.

I just hate the fact that, in my area where I live are old growth mature trees such as Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvania) or White Ash (Fraxinus americana) that are 40+ years old die out. It makes me upset and sick to my stomach. Look at cities like Waukesha and Milwaukee that are going to lose about 40% of their street trees.

[adrebs57]

If anyone in Appleton/Fox Valley area that does lawn/landscaping but does not snow plow you can people my way and maybe we could work out a percentage for you. I'm insured and have 5 years experience running my own business. Give me a call or pm me or just post here
Allan 920-730-9008
The Bulldog
Kaukauna, Wisconsin
Go Jets!

[PR Fect]

Allan, I will keep your number handy. I think its time for another Breakfast. We should set one up soon and get everyone to come meet each other. PR

[adrebs57]

sounds good to me, Al

[steven_ucf]

For the last year I have been wanting to start my own tree moving business in Ozaukee County. But I was wondering if anyone here has clients requesting larger trees 5-9" in caliper.

Have any of you landscapers ever needed to sub a tree mover. I am just trying to get a feeling for the demand out there. My brother-in-law has a tree moving business in Fond du Lac, he has been at it for over 10 years and he is doing all right for himself. But the idea of dropping 60k on a piece of equipment scares the crap out of me, when I think of the chance of not having any business. Any advice would be very helpful.

Thanks Cheeseheads!!!

[adrebs57]

I would look for used equipment through ebay/craigslist
Put as much down as you can
Read Dave Ramsey
Cash flow is the key to staying afloat and having debt on stuff hurts the initial cash flow

[PR Fect]

Lesco/JD dropping their fert prices. What's your take on it? PR

[MOW ED]

Hey PR,
How much of a drop do you see. I know you like to buy ahead. I put my last round down so I won't be buying again until next year. I got clobbered all year by a minimum of +8 dollars per bag which was not good. I lost a few customers but as the year went on people came to find out that I was just covering costs. I like the way Scotts went and kept the price relatively the same on their stuff and reduced the weight of the product.
I would like the old days to come back. It wasn't so bad pushing a spreader when the product was reasonable.
I hope the Lesco price drop is a signal of things to come. I am still not with them but who knows.
How are the leaves coming? The warm weather is going to set the trees to bud again.

[PR Fect]

Dave at Lesco/JD has ben telling his customers that fert will drop $5.00 a bag on NOV. 1st and again on Dec. 1st to expect another drop. I have not called Dave yet to talk, but buy reading other threads here on Lawnsite, it sounds like other Lesco/JD stores are telling the same story. Also rumors that Lebanon will be doing a price cut soon also. We just bought 1st round for next year last month. I know others who did the same trying to beat the price increases that were happening every month. Who would have thought the price would drop? If we raise our rates for applications for next year and fert drops, we may have the old days back again! My guess is that you will see a wide range of prices per application next year. No one is going to know what too charge. Our leaves are about half done. But I hear them calling my name.......

[rrettke]

thought I would drop a note and ask about snow work in the Oshkosh/Fond Du Lac areas- I already posted on plowsite but thought I'd see if I could get any hits here. If you have too much work, we're always looking for more- just get in touch with me.

[proscape lawncare]

I'm looking for a sub that is interested in snow removal in the Manitowoc Two Rivers area I have 10 residential driveways and side walks with in a 3 mile radius. Also 4 more of them in the two rivers area. These also are in a tight route. Please let me know if anyone is interested in subcontracting these.
Must be insured and able to have them done w/in 24 hours after snowfall
Dan

[BeautifulBlooms]

We only got 1/4" today!

[proscape lawncare]

I'm looking for someone to sub for the season, and it needs to be 2" or more.
But thank you for the info, we had some flurry's this afternoon but that's it.
Dan

[PR Fect]

I seen a commercial property today in Appleton that was posted with pesticide application signs. Dated 11-15. Turf Pro Lawn Care Green Bay did the application. I want to call an see what the hell they are still putting down. Did I miss something in my education on the care of turf? What lawn in NE Wisconsin needs an application this time of year/ and for what reason? PR

[MOW ED]

Wow they are running all the way down there. I know the owner of TP. He is also a equipment dealer.
On the other hand I wish I had my camera last week on a rainout day, TGCL was out with their sprayer truck making applications between raindrops. UNBELIEVEABLE.

[BeautifulBlooms]

I saw someone from TGCL broadcast spraying liquid of some sort on a lwn completely covered in leaves. I wonder if they have a clause in their contract that the homeowner is responsible to have leaves cleared??? If not, they sure make themselves look like fools. For one application if I had to I would call the homeowner and tell them I need leaves cleared to do the final app. Of course my final app does not include any liquid app only granular, and it usually ocurrs before the bulk of the leaves have fallen anyways.

[BeautifulBlooms]

Did anyone get caught by snow this year on their fall cleanups? I am wondering how to handle it, both of the places we didn't finish, were set up as time and materials. We made our first visit to cut down perennials and take away whatever leaves had already fallen. Do we bill for that time straight up (letting them know the leaves can be cleaned up in spring at the time and materials contract rate again) or give them a discount because we were unable to provide the complete service. Every year up until now we finished every property, but these two properties have silver maples that hold their leaves really late, and this year we had an early snow that didnt melt in their yards.

Any input guys? Just trying to get some ideas before we send out the billing this week.

[mr mow]

i just do it in the spring, they usaully understand. I have one that the leaves drop early in the front and late in the back. i just divide the bill by 2 and do front in fall and back in spring, works for them and me. no discount. whats the difference really other than really wet leaves in the spring

[mr mow]

its the nature of living in wisconsin and the smartass trees that like to mock us all!

[Grandview]

I seen a commercial property today in Appleton that was posted with pesticide application signs. Dated 11-15. Turf Pro Lawn Care Green Bay did the application. I want to call an see what the hell they are still putting down. Did I miss something in my education on the care of turf? What lawn in NE Wisconsin needs an application this time of year/ and for what reason? PR

If day temps got above 35, herbicides are still pretty effective. I would expect better control on Nov 15 than Sept 15.

[PR Fect]

Grandview, better control on what? Broadleaf weeds? Perennials or winter annuals? Not trying to be smart, just trying to learn something I may not know. I always believed the best control for most broadleaf weeds was the second week in September. I would think that most weeds are dormant and would not take in or translocate the herbicide enough to be effective the 15 of November. PR

[Grandview]

PR Fect. I am referring to broad leaf weed control; dandelions, clover, plantain. It would include winter annuals. The 2nd week of September is still warm and if dry control will be limited. You probably will do a decent job. I am also spraying as much as I can after Sept 1. I think the best control is after a good freeze or two with good soil moisture. This generally is after Oct 1 here. The frost gets rid of the summer cuticles and herbicide absorption is maximized. Plus the weeds are moving everything to the root system, just like the lawn. If the ground is not frozen there is time. I have had temps get to 20 and still spray. I wait until day time temps get back closer to 40. I want to have my spraying done by Nov 1, but I would not be concerned if it was Nov 15 and temps were above 40. I have sprayed days when my gloved hands got so cold I would have to take breaks doing large lawns.

[PR Fect]

PR Fect. I think the best control is after a good freeze or two with good soil moisture. Plus the weeds are moving everything to the root system, just like the lawn. If the ground is not frozen there is time.

Agreed. My guess is that we differ on when is a good freeze. First week in September see's some pretty low temps. I have had excellent control 2nd week in September to 2nd week in October. To tell you the truth we never have sprayed after the second week in October. Maybe you can still get good control, but it would be hard to spray turf that is covered in leafs. And what about your sprayers freezing up? And then we are back to spraying after leaves. I think we will stick with getting all applications (including winterizer) done before the 3rd week in October. Thanks for the reply, PR

[Grandview]

I would prefer to have my spraying done by the third week of October also. But I just have too much work. Large open lawns get done last so leaves are less of a problem. A light leaf cover is not going to hurt much. Leaves do not get real heavy until after mid-Oct. Average temps for Nov 1 is still in the mid 40s so sprayers are not freezing if equipment is in the shed. I have added RV anti-freeze or windshield washer fluid to my tanks on real cold nights.
Freezing point for three-way is less than 30 degrees. Mid-September to mid-October is an excellent time to spray. However, I think late October and early November are just a little better. By then we have had a couple good frosts.

[Grandview]

A good freeze is below 30 degrees. Generally the 2nd or third one. The type where everything is white in the morning.

[ToroMaster]

I am looking to buy out lawn maintenance contracts in the Fox Valley area. I am not looking for the equipment. Please call me if you are interested in a price. 920-277-6766. Jason

[ambersLawnmowing]

Anyone want to do my Fert this year. My mowing accounts are getting crazy, and i was running out of time the way it was last year. Looking for a sub to just spray, only catch is signed no compete contract for mowing. I will get the work, you just go and spray. Send a P.M if interested.

[Cranky Bait]

Is anyone else in the Valley losing work to weekend warriors on their Craftsman tractors?

Cranky

[Cheffy]

It is part of this business customers come and go just hold the line on what you need to make to pay your bills Cheffy Sauk City Wis

[Swampy]

That and diversify yourself. I.E. if you got a skid loader for loading mulch, start grading with it or get a broom and start cleaning parking lots.

[MOW ED]

Is anyone else in the Valley losing work to weekend warriors on their Craftsman tractors?

Cranky


They are up here too but for every one I lose I pick four up. What recession?????

[PSUturf]

We're losing construction work to other firms who are getting the jobs at break even or money losing bids. They'll go out of business soon enough and we'll still be around next year.

[PR Fect]

Squirt and Firts are down 6% from last year do to recession. Old customers wanting additional services is up and new customers are way up! We raised our rates from last year, and are tinning down work this year. Go figure. PR

[kisner87]

The work around here is starting off alot slower than it did last year. There are alot of people around here that are not even the weekend warriors any more they have lost thier jobs and are now trying to take on the accounts for alot cheaper than we would charge. I had one of my customers that asked me why I charged so much when this guy will do it for alot less. All that I had to tell them was that you are getting a quality job by a trust worthy buisness, along with you are getting a job from a unliscensed and uninsured person so if something were to happen on thier property you would have to worrie. They are still with me but it is hard to sleep at night when you know that you are just going to have to explain it to another person that might leave your services for another " weekend warrior"
P.S. Sorry for the spelling errors.

[PR Fect]

I had one of my customers that asked me why I charged so much when this guy will do it for alot less. All that I had to tell them was that you are getting a quality job by a trust worthy buisness, along with you are getting a job from a unliscensed and uninsured person so if something were to happen on thier property you would have to worrie.

And that you pay your taxes. Someone not paying income tax, or collecting sales tax and not sending it in has a real big advantage price wise. Last week we had a mower clutch, pump belt and an alternator all go in the same week. $450.00 just in parts. Lucky we could get the parts, and I have the tools and knowledge to fix it my self. This time! PR

[MOW ED]

I will say that some of my regular fertilizer customers are holding out.
I see a few new services even one from the 715 area code that was advertising hard up here??????
I seem to have all my lawn customers back and may even pick up one more.
My dethatches and cleans are steady and I should be in good shape by tomorrow night. It is a very strange spring. I have not had to unclog wet debris from my mower this season. The dryness and relative cold has helped me so far. I don't know what is going to happen but so far it looks like last year without the April snowstorm.

Is Lesco gone from Kaukauna? I went by and didn't see the sign. I didn't do much with them but I did go in there a time or two.

[PR Fect]

ED, good to here things are going well for you. Maybe a better year than last with those crazy fert prices? Lesco moved too the old Bobcat building exit BB & 41 south end of Appleton. Can I ask you to do a bid for me? The Guys name is Jason, wife Lisa. I work with him at the city garage, wants the good-guy discount on fert and squirt his new lawn. My discount price may be higher than your reg price because its out of my service area and I think in yours. And if so I will tell him to have you do it. When you get time, no rush. PM me with your quote. New house, 2858 Lawrence Dr. near Little Rapids Rd. Thanks PR.

[MOW ED]

PR, Thanks for thinking of me for the estimate. I will let you know by PM with the numbers. My daughter is playing in an Appleton North Soccer tournament this Saturday but I am stuck at the fire station. How are things with your "second" job? Everyone is crying about overtime and money here but its just crying at this point. There will always be work to do and they don't want to add people so those here just do more. Thats OK because the check comes every 2. How is Jan doing? I have Diane out with me and I feel bad because it is a dusty mess every day. On another note, the cert cards for pest. applicator is due next spring. We have to get back into school again. 10 years for me, WOW. Got to load up again for a warm Friday. Take care and thanks again.

[adrebs57]

Our sales are up 25% versus last year at this time, we did lose a couple but have gained more than we have lost. Some of the bids we did not win, I could not believe how low some guys will go! I think the biggest reason is there are so many guys that are brand new each year that do not know how to estimate a property. Also, I like it when a business requires you to have proof of insurance(tends to keep out weekend warriors). Just my 2 cents
Allan

[MOW ED]

Hi Allan,
I keep a pretty tight residential route as I have for 14 years up in the GB area and I only have 2 small commercials. I see alot of commercial properties changing LCO's every year or 2. I wish everyone asked for proof of insurance but the reality is that they don't. I don't persue commercials at all any more.
Business is basically the same as last year at this time. I haven't seen any great dips. I have one older lady who had lots invested in mutuals and she has kept all services except for fertilizing. Otherwise I am naming my price to walk-ups for dethatches and closing most jobs with really good profit. I could use one or 2 more weekly mowing customers but won't sweat if not.
How long have you been working in Kaukauna? Are you right in town or do you have a larger circle. There are some pretty nice shacks down that way (here it comes) I know the fresh air really can grow a lawn down there.:laugh: Just kiddin. Are you a solo OP? It looks like you have a good set up from your equipment list, I could use that shop. Take care.

[adrebs57]

Mow Ed,
We service all the valley and Oshkosh and I'm right at the point where I need help but I'm resistant because it introduces all sorts of other things to worry about. We live on the northside of town and I think the smell is the worst! contrary to most lawn care providers we like to have a big area that we service so we do not have to turn down good paying customers looking for service. There are even a couple well known companies that just low ball everything and then cut on 10 day schedules to cut costs.

Most of the people that have me, remark to me when I hired you to do the yard I just assumed it would look the same as when I cut it. However, they can't get over how good it looks after we get done with a yard.

Most bids I'm getting with nice profit, I think lawn care is still going strong because yard work has to be done. I do see people cutting back on getting all the services we offer.

I have run into businesses that I think value my knowledge and professionalism but most just look at the bottom dollar and sign the contract. I wish they would all require you to provide proof of insurance as it would keep out the weekend warriors and people not paying taxes

I have some more equipment but have not had time to edit my profile. I also want to grow slow by not borrowing money and paying cash for equipment, which is slower but I can be very competitive on price when things are paid for.

Allan

[PR Fect]

PR, On another note, the cert cards for pest. applicator is due next spring. We have to get back into school again. 10 years for me, WOW.

You made me get out my cards and check. That's not all bad though, no one else ever asks for them so its good to know there still in my wallet.:laugh: Just re-did the state applicator last year so I'm good till 2013. But my national certification is dew March next year. So time to get the big book out for me as well. I don't think you need to do southern turf grasses anymore, as in the past. So I would hope its easier. Jan is well. She tells me no one else's wife works as hard as she does, or does so much. Maybe its not just her but her and Diane. Jan's has been doing the 1st round apps, as I did most of 43 Power Rakes. Just finishing spring clean ups and then will start helping her with 1st round. And then bark. They way it looks we could be mowing by next week. My night job is going good, glad I'm not a fireman right now:gunsfirin PR

[PR Fect]

For Sale
2005 eXmark Lazer Z CT Commercial Mower
Model # LCT4418KC
18 hp Kohler Command Pro engine
450 hours
48 inch deck with mulch kit installed
Professionally maintained and driven
Excellent working condition -well taken care of -have all maintenance records
Additional items included (not shown):
1 Spare tire and wheel (rear)
1 Folding ROPS bar
1 Discharge chute
Several sets of spare blades
$4000.00

Its a money maker, but we changed some of our properties this year and we are not big enough to keep three machines. Send Jan a e-mail or PM back. PR

[lawnproslawncare]

Got a 1998 Walker Model MT GHS for sale. $3500.00 obo

25 hp
48" ghs deck with dethatcher
54" side discharge deck
power dump
low profile tires, single wide tail wheel
Both screens for the catcher
All fluids changed yearly and motor at 50hr intervals


Unit has 32xx hrs on it, motor has 12xx with a ready to go spare that only needs one valve replace. Old motor was totally rebuilt 3 years ago and the service shop dropped a spring through the carb and it damaged the valve.

All tires are less then 1.5 years old

Have tons of spare shear bolts, 3 sets of blades for ghs deck, 2 sets for side discharge, spare deck gear box, spare belts.

[steven_ucf]

I am always thinking of new ways to generate sales by working together with other companies. I know the weekend warriors are hurting the LCO's.

My business pretty much focuses on the sale and installation of large landscaping trees. My website has a complete price list and pictures.

But what I was throwing out there as an extra service for LCO's in the Milwaukee/Ozaukee Area – is to add tree sales and installation to your lineup of services that you provide to the customers that you come in contact with. My prices very reasonable with plenty of room for markup to make your business more profitable. I would take care of the install ect. so no additional machinery would be needed on your end. Just make the sale and collect the markup.

Let me know your thoughts - Like I said it was just an idea. I think one of the biggest keys to success in a competitive business is networking. Let me know if you have any other ideas on how we can work together.

Check out my website to get a better idea about my business.

Good luck to you all!

Thanks

[Swampy]

steven: Good luck with that, I like your idea actually, I don't really plant to many trees. But one way that I've found to cut costs is to move in with the compitetion. Granted I still work for someone cutting grass and I try to stick to hardscapes, but we share the same shop and (Not so share) equipment. He uses my truck and trailer to haul lawn mowers and I use his skid loader when I need it, we even talked about winter of using my older trucks for salting and his for plowing. Granted it may seem like the short end of the stick but in sense we are helping each other out, I get enough jobs subbed to me from him. But be warned only really do this with someone you trust, and has a small crew.


Other news: Milwaukee Area: I was away for NTC for the Reserves from Jun 30th to July 27th, I'm sure everything is long gone but worth a shot. Thevies stripped a few trucks, the worse being mine and a mason's truck. I'm missing a Stihl TS400 (I didn't write down the numbers yet cause I bought it off craigslist 2 days before I left) but S/N starts with a 1 6 and is marked "LES 262-490-2883" inside the air filter cover, Box of Craftsman tools in a blue plano type box, 3 ton jack stands, 3 shots of 100ft of climbing rope, a list of Struction tools, Road cones, chains and binders, Cordless Dewalt 18V hammer Drill, sawsall, skil saw, and radio, and 2 blue Jackson wheel barrels. The other guy is missing both Weatherguard tool box and pack rat drawer units packed with mason tools. Unfortantly my insurance will not cover my loss and the army may reimburse a bit of it.

[PR Fect]

Hey Guys, Happy New Year to you all. Snow seems too be about average. Lets hope for a little more in 10 and to a good growing season ahead. Selling a hedge clipper. PM me if interested. Echo HC-1600 24 inch double sided. $120.00

[MOW ED]

HaPPy New Year to you and Jan also PR.
I was within $80.00 of 08's revenues so I guess I could feel good about not going too far backwards but I didn't have as much work as in 08 either so I guess it was a success. I am hoping 10 is a better year for business also and I am needing to increase my mowing customer base as I have many older ladies that are in their 80's. Some have been my customer for 14 years!!!

Going to recert in March. I am going to sit thru the class again as it is always informative. Good to see fert prices come down a bit last year, I was getting hammered. No more P in the fert too so I hope you didn't stockpile alot of fert with something other than 0 in the middle. I had been free of phosphorus since late 07 anyway so it won't bother me at all.

Good Luck and good health to all in 2010.

[PR Fect]

Ed, don't even get me going about P. When properly applied to turf, it does not leach. Period. The problem comes when it is improperly applied (ie by home owners or less than reputable LCO's ) it becomes a pollutant. So lets just ban it from turf grass use. Makes no sense what so ever. Gardeners, Farmers, Nursery, and Green House's can still use phosphorous. And it can still be used for snow and ice control as long as the ice is not on a turf area. Give me a break, this is Government at it worse. And yes the grass does need it, even if the soil has phosphorus.

[Grandview]

Ed, don't even get me going about P. When properly applied to turf, it does not leach. Period. The problem comes when it is improperly applied (ie by home owners or less than reputable LCO's ) it becomes a pollutant. So lets just ban it from turf grass use. Makes no sense what so ever. Gardeners, Farmers, Nursery, and Green House's can still use phosphorous. And it can still be used for snow and ice control as long as the ice is not on a turf area. Give me a break, this is Government at it worse. And yes the grass does need it, even if the soil has phosphorus.

This why I think the government can not come up with solutions. The P law is not a solution to the problem. Just like the NR-151 requirement. I have done several NR-151s for customers that have more than 5 acres of turf. It never changes what we are doing. It just causes them to spend money on something that was not needed. My large acreage customers are only doing one or two applications.

[PR Fect]

I'm going into enemy territory this week. I registered for the Midwest Organic lawn care conference. Its in Midland on the 28th and 29th. I have no problem with going pro organic, but I believe most of those that will be there will be anti synthetic. We will see.PR

[adrebs57]

It's interesting government worries about phosphorus leaching from fertilizer but when government does the polluting (google Milwaukee sewage dumping). They dump billions of untreated raw sewage right into lake michigan. Imagine if someone claims our drift from treating a lawn was going into a lake. The government would come after you with a vengance.

[Swampy]

It's interesting government worries about phosphorus leaching from fertilizer but when government does the polluting (google Milwaukee sewage dumping). They dump billions of untreated raw sewage right into lake michigan. Imagine if someone claims our drift from treating a lawn was going into a lake. The government would come after you with a vengance.

You have no idea on what the City of Milwaukee is doing to combat this do you? They are boring about 300ft below to solve this problem, tunnel 1 and 2 is complete, 3 is started, with a 4th in the plans. My step brother is a electrician on the 3rd shift making sure that borer unit doesn't shut down.

[adrebs57]

Has there not been billions of dumping of raw sewage into Lake Michigan? My point is that government is holds private business to a higher standard than they do themselves.
This dumping has been going on for years and it's just being addressed now? Shame on Milwaukee officials for allowing this to go on for so long.

If you don't think there has been a lot of sewage go into the lake, google "milwaukee sewage dumping"

Another good read about this is http://mises.org/daily/1538

[MOW ED]

Not only Milwaukee but God forbid we pick on the farmers. No I know I am going to get blasted here but farm runoff up here is huge. The Fox river runs chocolate brown after a heavy rain. I am quite sure there are many bigger players than the pee on lawn care guys that cause many more problems than are caused by fert applicators. Don't get me wrong, I think farmers are very hard workers and have a hard job. They do have to follow rules too and I know they are very necessary for me to eat. I am just venting out loud that I don't think our industry has enough clout to fight certain rulings and the politicians hink they HAVE to do something so they pick on the weakest group.

I have yet to do phosphorous testing on my customers lawns however I have been buying zero phosphorous fertilizer for a few years now and have seen no real issue with the lawns I treat. I don't like giving up control and I wonder what is next, limit N? I am still not looking to go organic yet. I can't stand the smell of the chicken $h:waving:it.

[Swampy]

Yes I'm aware that has happened in the past. But its being delt with, our fathers before us that built Milwaukee won't have the slightest idea what would happen in the near future. Unfortantuly Milwaukee is a urban jungle and drainage has been a nightmare to that city. Hopefully the tunnel project is more of a solution then just another bandaid. Let alone probably why its taken so long to do this comes from a funding issue. Maybe it will just turn into another disaster waiting to happen, lets not forget about the Hone bridge.

Anyways if your talking about polution leaves, take a look at our capital city and Mandoda (Spelling?) Lake. I'm from Waukesha County, City of Pewaukee. Pewaukee Lake and River are a stone throws away. Our lake is dirty, I'm afraid to swim in it now even though it didn't stop me as a kid (maybe thats why I turned out a little touched in the head). But polution came alot from the home owners.

[MOW ED]

Man did I get sacked with this snow. It was dry as a cork for a long time now we must have got 2.5 inches of moisture up here in 2 days. The snow was 6" deep today and it was wet and heavy. No shoveling for me, it can melt but I am out of business until probably Monday with dry weather.

I was way ahead of the game with my thatchings and cleans. I put 75% of my pre-em down but still have a few to go. All in all I will just enjoy the down time and hope for the warmth to return. "
We are going to be mowing early this year and the dandelions were already out on some full sun areas. Thats about 4 weeks early. Global warming, naah just Wisconsin.

[LawnsRUsInc.]

Hope everyone is good!!!!

Wanted to see if anyone in the Milwaukee and Madison area is in need of a Fertilizing Company to handle the applications to their clients. Competitive prices and the forms that are put on the door will have your company name on them with the payment return address to you. Dry granular fertilizer with liquid weed control we offer a great service and product we just won again the Angieslist 2010 super service award in both citys for fertilizing. I have a non compete clause that would be signed. All fertilizer is mixed to our standards and labeled with our name on it we don't just buy whats on sale at John Deere! We also dont do Lawn cutting or landscaping outside of Waukesha CO. so that will work to your benefit networking with us. Message, call, or email me

Respectfully, Jason
jason@lawnsrus.com
262-746-9000

[BeautifulBlooms]

Anyone in the Milwaukee area with either a LT Rich Spreader Sprayer or a Turfco T3000 Spreader Sprayer that wouldnt mind me coming to look at it. I dont necessarily need to operate it, but I would at least like to see them up close, and also ask your opinions. I have already operated a freinds Permagreen so I already have that as a baseline.

I have however only operated that Permagreen and never any of the other options out there.

Mike Harrington

[PR Fect]

Hey Mike, good to hear from you. I can't help you out much, we run Prolawn sprayers, and its a little bit of a hike for you to come up here to Appleton. Last time I was in JDL they had a z-spray. They are haveing a Landscape and turf show at the EAA grounds in Oshkosh March 1&2. And this is also the year for Reinders turf show in Waukesha March 9-10. They are z-spray guys also. Hope things are going well. PR

[Swampy]

Anybody going to the Riender's Turf show this year? to a look at the seminars, there is a few that look interesting I want to take a look in Storm Water Management.

http://www.reinders.com/tc11/?pageType=attendee&content=home

[PR Fect]

Annoying little add by Aquascape on Rienders site. $49.00 a day I may need to pick one or the other. PR

[c3wlandscaping]

Hey all. First year going hard at it. I am in central wi. Primary target is going to be lake and vacation homes around wautoma wild rose plainfield and wisc rapids. I haven't yet read all the posts on this thread, but will do this weekend. Just wanted to stop in and say hi.
Posted via Mobile Device

[MOW ED]

Welcome c3w this is a great resource for everyone. This state is kind of a group of goofballs with the current budget crisis. I am just hoping it doesn't move alot of teachers into the mowing ring to compete with us. Good luck in your efforts down there. Take care.

[c3wlandscaping]

Ok have read all 60 pages and wow learned a lot. Do you guys still have the breakfast meetings? Because I would be interested in learning more from u guys and girls. My question is on low balling. I have not seen anyone on here from my area. I don't have the best equipment but we all have to start somewhere. I am trying very hard not to be a low baller but I don't have the overhead that most lcos have. Pretty much gas and ins. So I can do a half hour lawn for 25 and still make good money. That is mow trim edge n blow. So am I a low baller? Not being shitty just asking. Or is that a good price. I would like to be around the dollar an hour mark gross. Is that reasonable? Again thanks for all the helpful advice. Looking forward to meeting ya all for breakfast sometime.
Posted via Mobile Device

[MOW ED]

Hi again,
My answer to you on lowballing is that only you know what is what in your business. It is a huge mistake that guys make in this business. You only site 2 "expenses" and I have to take great exception with that. Gas and insurance are definately expenses however you have others you don't even consider. Your equipment may not be the best but when you start using it commercially it is going to wear out and then what? Another expense. New equipment. When you run that equipment you are beating it down and it has a "per hour" cost to run. You have to maintain that equipment, belts, oil, plugs. Over time it adds up and include multiple pieces of equipment not to mention your truck and trailer. (tires, brakes, license) there are many expenses. I hope you are registered with the state and pay the state sales tax in Wisconsin. That way we all win and you can actually go to your accountant at the end of the year and (pay him/her) write off some of these business expenses.
I am not trying to be a blow bag but you have to run it as a business unless you want to run yourself out of business. So you think you can charge $XX.00 and be good then you HAVE TO KNOW WHY you can charge that. I am just trying to help you out. The surface may just show you that you think you are doing well but eventually reality sets in and I have seem many guys in my area make the same mistakes.
I would suggest a community college class on business or hit the bookstore and try reading up on running a business. Its a good business and I have been doing it successfully for 16 years but it didn't come easy. Start running numbers my friend. Take care.

[c3wlandscaping]

Mow, thank u very much for the help. The sales tax thing, am I suppose to collect that on the service? Even if I am not doing fert n squirt? My accountant has not told me to, even though I have done my business taxes twice now. I do have a tax id number.

Think I am going to start door hangers in 2 weeks, for spring cleanups. Then second round 2 weeks after that? Sound rite to u?
Thanks again, and I will take another look at expenses again tonight.
Chad.
Posted via Mobile Device

[MOW ED]

Hi Chad,
I am glad you took my suggestions as I wasn't trying to sound like a know it all, just someone who has been around a bit and willing to help. You do have to pay sales tax weather or not you do it as an add on to a fixed rate or not is up to you. You can look at this pdffrom the state.

http://www.dor.state.wi.us/pubs/pb210.pdf

You have to set your own account up and submit the tax monthly. I don't do anything to tax in the winter but I do file a zero return for those months.

Go to this site to start your account.

https://prd.wamsidp.wisconsin.gov/nidp/idff/sso?id=6&sid=0&option=credential&sid=0

It is a state law to collect sales tax and I would suggest you do it. I know guys that don't but I am not one of them. I don't want to be on the bad side of the tax man.

Otherwise your marketing plan sounds good. I usually wait until the snow starts to melt a bit and people start thinking spring. I have put literature out early and have people call me 2 years later. If they are interested they will keep yourstuff, people always surprise me. Thats one thing that helps keep this fun. Good luck on running the numbers. I just want to see our industry and people in it get better. Like I say, anyone can cut grass but not everyone can run a business. I am thinking you can do it. Take care.

[c3wlandscaping]

mow,
thanks. got it set up. so now i can pay my taxes. yeah i really dont want to be on the wrong side of the tax man.
any thing else i NEED to know???
thanks again
chad

[MOW ED]

Hi Chad, Make sure your accountant knows about the law. Print that pdf out. You get to deduct some of this stuff. Make sure you keep excellent records, ie gas reciepts, mileage, everything that you pay for in the business should be recorded and have proof. I am assuming that you are not a certified applicator. You can't apply anything except for straight fertilizer. No pre-emergent, no spraying unless you are certified.
Make sure you are covered with business insurance for you equipment. You should also make sure your truck has a "business" endorsement because it is different than a personal policy. If you get in a crash and are working they will possibly and probably not pay because you have to have business coverage on the truck. Tak=lk to your agent. Other than that I would say to start to get ready for the season and get the flyers printed. If I think of anything else I will pass it along. I hope I wasn't the bearer of bad news. No one likes to pay taxes but its a cost of business. If you are going to estimate someone you can say that the cost is $XX per mow plus sales tax. So an example for me is I pay 5.5% sales tax and a $30.00 job gets billed $30.00 plus $1.65 tax. We collect that and send it in electronically each month.
You may also want to ask your accountant about forming a LLC. Its alot to get into here but an accountant will know if you should with your business. You can also do that online. http://www.wisconsin.gov/state/byb/LLcompany.html

Lot more to it than gassin up the ole Murray and cuttin hey? I think you are headin in the right direction. You sound serious about succeeding so I am giving you a hand. Take care, the snow is melting here.

[c3wlandscaping]

I am certified in two areas of pesticide app. Just not turf n landscaping. Got my book on its way now and gonna take the test the end of the month. I do snow removal to, it where I started. so now just adding lawn care and landscaping. So I do keep all my receipts. I call to get a quote on ins today. Business ins, will that cover my truck as well? Or is it a separate policy?

Thanks for all the help.
Chad
Posted via Mobile Device

[MOW ED]

Cool that you have the pest certs so you kind of know what to expect for turf. Its decent training. Your truck insurance is a different policy than your business liability. Make sure your business liability also covers your applications.
You are getting most of your bases covered. Now you have to make sure you are charging enough to cover those expenses but better yet make a profit. Thats what its all about. Take Care.

[PR Fect]

Welcome aboard Chad. Glad to have you. We all learn from each other. You are getting some great advice from ED. He is one one the reasons my wife and I are still in business. Gave us plenty to think about over the years. I just recently past the Minnesota/Wisconsin School of Turfgrass Management. Great school! It was held in Green Bay this year so I took it. Golf guys, sod guys, fert salesmen, landscapers, and I meet a few lawn maintenance guys. Mark from Lawnmasters in Howard, said he would like to join us next time we have a breakfast, maybe its time to try it again. I know the last one only three of us showed up. Kind of dyed out after that. PR

[Swampy]

heck weather and schedule premitting I'd go. Also if anybody is interested it appears Birchwood off Silverspring in Milwaukee is having a big equipment sale. Probably all beat but you never know.

[c3wlandscaping]

next friday 9 in appleton somewhere? i know i have a lot of questions

thanks
chad

[Bay de Noc Lawn Car]

Anyone going to the Reinders trade show / conference this week? Is it worth attending?

[PR Fect]

Anyone going to the Reinders trade show / conference this week? Is it worth attending?

Its one of the best shows in the Midwest. It cost a little, but I have always got much out of it. Good food, good door prizes too. Much information. Classes count for CEU for certification. Can't make it this year with a storm coming on the 9th and late getting some bids out this week. PR

[Swampy]

Anyone going to the Reinders trade show / conference this week? Is it worth attending?

I'll be there on the 9th its what my schedule will allow.

[Swampy]

Also forgot to add that WCTC in Pewaukee is having a foreman conference on the 9th, one of my teachers is speaking (Carol Bangs). But I already got the rienders show locked in for that day. Link: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wisconsin-Landscape-Contractors-Association-WLCA/172101209600?v=app_2344061033#!/event.php?eid=180225065355873&index=1

[TheBetterDoorhanger]

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[SnoMower]

Hello to all the fellow Wisconsinites! I just found this thread. It's good to see a good group of us on here.

[c3wlandscaping]

Welcome sno where ya at?
Posted via Mobile Device

[SnoMower]

The forgotten land of Superior

[MOW ED]

Superior, Ahh the land of AMSOIL. St Norbert also did the Superior Hockey team in a few weeks ago. Tough game. You must not start mowing until about June. Glad you found us.

[SnoMower]

Haha, yeah there's been quite a few times when we've had to deal with snow during spring/fall cleanups. I've had to put plows back on the trucks as soon as we got done.
And yes we run Amsoil in all our equipment, whenever we need anything I just put in a call to distribution and pick it up right down the street.

[LawnsRUsInc.]

Everyone in Southern WI ready for this 50-60's !!! Anyone in SE WI needs mulch i have it here. It will be ready for spring and save some money!! I can help you out the most i can deliver at a crack is 66yds though, i dont have a walking floor trailer.

Also its all hardwood no pallets or building material!!! Its all from our own trees we cut down last fall

[LawnsRUsInc.]

Anyone start their fertilizing apps yet???? I have seen the national guys out already

[PR Fect]

Welcome SnoMower. We still have about 4-6 inches of snow on the ground. Plus many piles where it was pushed. We just had the tine rakes set up, and did get out on one lawn, then the next day the storm hit. That was over a week ago and we still might not get out for a least another week. I wonder if we will be able to get clean-ups done, tine rakes, and trim seasonal shrubs, before we need to start mowing. I think by the time the snow gone, and the lawns are dry, the grass is going to pop up green and growing. I wonder how we are going to get it all done. Then 1st round. Last year the big green trucks started spraying the second week in March. I have not seen one yet, they must not own snow boot's! Ha/Ha Those guys hurt our industry as much as they help it. PR

[MOW ED]

Ya, PR is only dealing with 6" on the ground, we got 18 in Green Bay and it isn't melting fast at all. I am wondering if the WDATCP will enforce the no fert on frozen ground against those turds who put it down too early? I haven't even got my product yet and probably won't until next week. It was a different view last year at this time. Oh well I will just enjoy the extended time off and work like crazy when I finally get the chance.

[PR Fect]

Imprelis Herbicide Warning! If you guys have some of this stuff you may want to stop using it. There is some questions about what it is doing to trees about 4 to 6 weeks after application. Spruce and Pine are getting the most damage. But others like Maple and Red Bud are showing signs also. I believe Reinders pulled it off their shelf's Wednesday. PR

[MOW ED]

Thanks PR,

I was close to trying some earlier this year but decided against it. I am glad I did. I sure don't need to be replacing trees on anyones property.

I am sticking with good old Speedzone. It has not let me down yet.

have a good summer.

[PR Fect]

Well we are still getting threw the Imprelis claims process with DuPont. So far so good. Well good as expected. Lots of damaged trees. But what I wanted to ask you guys is are you seeing Maple Tar Spot (RHYTISMA fungas) in your part of the state? How bad? We really just noticed it this year on our properties. Not real bad but I wonder if it will affect next years maples. Mostly on Red, Sugar, and Norway.

[Swampy]

Got it pretty bad down here, It always seems to be not as bad the next year.

[c3wlandscaping]

Anyone part of the Wisconsin turfgrass association?
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