Industry News

Apr 8, 2020

Growers and municipalities work to improve supply and planting of urban landscape trees

A workshop in Milton brought members of the growers sector and municipal green space managers together to create a strategy on the supply and planting of trees in the urban landscape.

Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto celebrated National Tree Day by planting trees throughout the property.

Nov 15, 2015

Ontario celebrates National Tree Day

After five years, Canada’s National Tree Day continues to serve as an opportunity to appreciate the great benefits that trees provide.

All Treat Farms grew a giant pumpkin that weighed 921 lbs.

Nov 15, 2015

Giant pumpkin promotes compost use

A giant pumpkin weighing 1,078 lbs. is the winning entry in this year’s Annual Pumpkin Growing Contest.

Dr. Darby McGrath, Vineland’s Research Scientist, Nursery and Landscape, is joined by her assistants with the highway trees project, Erin Agro, Research Technician, Horticultural Production Systems, and Jason Henry, Research Technician, Nursery and Landscape.

Nov 15, 2015

Highway trees project a continuation of 401 planting

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre is continuing the task to develop guidelines to sustain healthy trees along highways.

Oct 15, 2015

GTI director retires

Rob Witherspoon retired in September, after a 28-year career with the University of Guelph.

Oct 15, 2015

Research looks to fight EAB

Scientists are scrambling to find ways to stop the emerald ash borer from destroying more North American trees.

Oct 15, 2015

Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition wins OALA service award

The Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA) presented the 2015 award for service to the environment to Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition.

Dutchmaster Nuseries was named Canada’s Grower of the Year at the Awards of Excellence ceremonies in Winnipeg. In photo, Dave Tillaart, left, and Matt Tillaart proudly hold their trophy.

Oct 15, 2015

Landscape Ontario members bring home awards from national competition

A number of Landscape Ontario members took home awards from the National Awards of Landscape Excellence ceremony.

Sep 15, 2015

Group working on plan to sustain Kemptville

Ontario has established a working group to explore the feasibility to deliver learning, training and instruction at the Kemptville campus in Eastern Ontario.

Sep 15, 2015

CLP now CLM

The acronym “CLP” will no longer be used, changing to “CLM”.

Sep 15, 2015

National Tree Day on Sept. 23

On Sept. 23, Canada will celebrate National Tree Day.

Sep 15, 2015

Battlefield opens in Brantford

Battlefield Equipment Rentals has announced the opening of a new location in Brantford.

Sep 15, 2015

Ministry offers advisory on elevating work platforms

The Ministry of Labour has provided an advisory on working at heights.

Sep 15, 2015

Dwyer Group acquires The Grounds Guys

U.S.-based Dwyer Group, one of the world’s largest franchising companies of trade service brands, acquired The Grounds Guys of Canada.

Sep 15, 2015

AAFC reverses decision on Advance Payments Program

In their announcement to CNLA, officials from AAFC acknowledged that industry would have insufficient time to apply for the AgriStability program for the 2015 application deadlines.

Over 2,400 containers were on display at Sawaya trial garden tour on July 22 -23.

Sep 15, 2015

Sawaya trial gardens attract industry and writers

Trial gardens are, unfortunately, one of the green industry’s best kept secrets in Ontario.

Jul 15, 2015

Capital Commission concentrates on native maples

The National Capital Commission held a special ceremony on June 9 to announce its commitment to planting Canadian native maples on its urban lands.

Jul 15, 2015

Public consultations on amending labour laws

Ontario is moving forward with public consultations on issues and trends that affect workers and employers across the province in the modern workplace.

Jul 15, 2015

Coalition urges Premier to protect urban forests

In June, Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition sent Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne a letter urging her to support the province’s urban forests.

Jul 15, 2015

Keeping roads safe

Landscape Ontario manager of Education and Labour Development, Sally Harvey was invited to observe the Carrier Enforcement Program by the Ministry of Transportation.

Jul 15, 2015

Who is a supervisor under health and safety act?

The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) defines a supervisor as a person who has charge of a workplace or authority over a worker.

Jul 15, 2015

Time to think about apprenticeship

The process for apprenticeship registration has changed in Ontario.

Jun 15, 2015

Growers’ research priority report released

The Ontario Horticulture Research Priority Report 2015 has been released by Vineland Research and Innovation Centre.

Jun 15, 2015

Suggestions on preparing for enforcement blitz

Ministry of Labour inspectors are conducting a four-month enforcement blitz

Jun 15, 2015

Weeding the neighbourhood of criminals

Peel Regional Police have developed programs to encourage homeowners and gardening, such as Weed Your Neighbourhood of Criminals.

Jun 15, 2015

Construction site emergency preparation is required

Every construction project must have emergency response procedures in place.

Jun 15, 2015

Flowers Canada names new director

The Board of Directors of Flowers Canada has announced the appointment of Andrew Morse as executive director, effective June 28, 2015.

Jun 15, 2015

National Garden Days from June 19 to 21

The second annual National Garden Days will take place from June 19 to 21.

May 15, 2015

New Niagara Parks graduating class

The Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture held its graduation ceremony on Mar. 28.

May 15, 2015

Top 10 tips for safe deliveries

If you’re working on a landscaping project for days or weeks, you may face different site-specific hazards each day.

May 15, 2015

Canada Blooms earned great media exposure

According to Canada Blooms, the number of media hits for this year’s event was recorded on 518 media, resulting in more than 162 million media impressions.

May 15, 2015

Numbers released from foreign workers blitz

Results from the provincial vulnerable and temporary foreign workers blitz, that ran from Sept. 1 to Nov. 30, 2014, have been released by the Ministry of Labour.

A circular ‘bullseye’ rash at the site of a tick bite is often the first sign of Lyme disease infection.

May 15, 2015

LO member concerned over Lyme disease awareness

LO member Sasha Hunter of Aquascape says most people are unaware of the symptoms of Lyme disease, and most doctors misdiagnose.

Apr 15, 2015

Milkweed Highway to help Monarchs

The Milkweed Highway is a project to feed and nurture vast numbers of Monarch butterflies, which are in a dramatic and steep decline in numbers.

Apr 15, 2015

Grey to Green Conference in June 2015

Green Roofs for Healthy Cities will present The Grey to Green Conference on June 1 and 2 in Toronto.

Apr 15, 2015

CFIA announces horticulture plant list

The CFIA is implementing a new approach to issuing import permits for commonly traded plants intended for planting and propagation.

Apr 15, 2015

Study shows EAB also attacking white fringetrees

Researchers at Wright State University in Ohio reported that the emerald ash borer had attacked white fringetrees.

Apr 15, 2015

Wage data released

CNLA in partnership with Landscape Ontario collected relevant wage rate data to provide industry-driven Labour Market Information.

Apr 15, 2015

Minimum wage going up Oct. 1

The Ontario government has announced that the province’s minimum wage will increase on Oct. 1 to $11.25 an hour from $11.

The beauty of Niagara’s parks is why it has become one of Canada’s foremost tourism destinations for garden lovers.

Apr 15, 2015

Niagara Falls recognized at garden conference

The City of Niagara Falls received the prestigious Garden Destination of the Year Award at the Garden Tourism Conference on Mar. 17 in Toronto.

Apr 15, 2015

Landscape architecture conference comes to Toronto

The Cultural Landscape Foundation to be held May 21-23 at several Toronto venues.

Apr 15, 2015

MP introduces legislation to cover irrigation

The House of Commons to amend the Canada Water Act to authorize the federal government to play a lead role in promoting the optimum use of water resources in Canada.

Mar 15, 2015

Safety conference coming to Mississauga

Show will feature 60-plus sessions and over 400 exhibits.

University of Guelph is working to bring real turf to the home of Toronto Blue Jays, Rogers Centre.

Mar 15, 2015

University of Guelph helping Blue Jays

The University of Guelph is working to improve the Toronto Blue Jays.

Mar 15, 2015

Green highway project continues and broadens

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre will continue in 2015 to monitor the Greening the Highways project.

Mar 15, 2015

Vineland to study Norway maple

The Vineland project received $30,000. Vineland’s Travis Banks and Darby McGrath will work on the Norway maple tree project.

Mar 15, 2015

MTO amends truck regulations

The Ministry of Transportation has made some amendments regulations under the Highway Traffic Act that came into effect on Jan. 1, 2015.

Mar 15, 2015

Training for falls from heights mandatory after Apr. 1

Falls from heights are a major hazard for workers and one of the leading causes of critical injuries and fatalities in Ontario workplaces.

Mar 15, 2015

New online guide contains answers for truck operators

The nearly 300-page online guide will assist and ensure companies operate safely and are compliant with the regulations that govern highway use.

Mar 15, 2015

Irrigation now included in overtime pay exemption

Employers of landscape gardeners are exempt from the requirement to pay overtime.

The Government of Canada has announced the Canada Apprentice Loan to help complete an apprenticeship in a designated Red Seal trade, for which landscape horticulturalists qualify.

Feb 15, 2015

Canada Apprentice Loan now available

The Canada Apprentice Loan is an initiative of the Government of Canada to help complete an apprenticeship in a designated Red Seal trade.

Feb 15, 2015

Helping workers get back to work

It only took a split second.

Feb 15, 2015

Video series highlights green infrastructure

Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition (GIO) has released a new series of short videos on green infrastructure.

Feb 15, 2015

Report on Kemptville College pleases Task Force

Kemptville’s agricultural college should be handed over to North Grenville to run as a multipurpose community hub, according to provincial government advisor Lyle Vanclief.

Feb 15, 2015

Garden Tourism Conference in Toronto

Excitement is mounting as delegates plan to come together for the North American Garden Tourism Conference at the Eaton Chelsea Hotel in downtown Toronto from March 16 to 18.

Jan 15, 2015

Growing People Toolkit updated

Jan 15, 2015

WSIB helping workers get back to employment

The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) Work Transition program was developed to meet the unique needs of injured workers.

Jan 15, 2015

New regulations for working at heights

There are new regulatory requirements for working at heights training in construction.

Jan 15, 2015

MOL blitz focuses on temporary work

The province says it is helping to protect vulnerable workers by proactively inspecting temporary help agencies during a two-month employment standards blitz.

Jan 15, 2015

New workers more likely injured

Workers who are new to a job are three times more likely to be injured during their first month on the job than more experienced workers.

Jan 15, 2015

Bill 18 will affect LO members

The Ontario Government has passed Bill 18, which will have an impact on Landscape Ontario members.

Jan 15, 2015

Focus group members needed to examine new Toolkit

Following the success of the first Growing People Toolkit, focus group meetings are underway to develop the Growing Business Toolkit.

Jan 15, 2015

First step for nursery industry certification

The NOS is the authoritative resource on occupational information in Canada.

Dec 15, 2014

Avoid interruption to your operations

People are hard-wired to get the job done. To do that, some will go so far as to take shortcuts or jury-rig repairs to hazardous machinery.

Dec 15, 2014

Report released on Kemptville College

A community-based task force is working to continue post-secondary education on the campus, and engaged McSweeney & Associates to prepare a report outlining a renewal plan.

A week-long session for The National Occupational Analysis for the Landscape Horticulturist occupation was held in November in Ottawa. In photo, those attending the conference, are from left, Guy Dowhy, Heike Stippler, Karen Carrier, Tim Kearney, Mike Gallant, William Dorman, Kurtis Langton, Michael Murray, John Soychak, Sally Harvey, Doug Conrad.

Dec 15, 2014

Support needed for occupation skills review

The government believes in the growth and strength of the industry, and has invested in us by bringing leaders together to update the NOA.

Nov 15, 2014

Weather forecasts call for cold and snow this winter

Weather forecasts for this coming winter call for below normal temperatures and near normal levels of snowfall.

Nov 15, 2014

New safety award announced

WSPS has announced a new national award that recognizes organizations that exceed traditional health and safety practices.

Nov 15, 2014

Ontario accessibility reporting deadline at year-end

Ontario’s accessibility standards came into effect in 2012. Since then, additional requirements have come into law.

Nov 15, 2014

WSPS launches free safety resources

Successful business owners want to keep their people healthy and safe.

Nov 15, 2014

Reviewer appointed for Ontario College of Trades

The review will focus on how decisions are made regarding scopes of practice and trade classification reviews.

Nov 15, 2014

Small business to receive Job Credit

On September 11, the federal government introduced the new Small Business Job Credit program.

Oct 15, 2014

Commercial Vehicle Safety Manual

MTO requires all Ontario-based operators who apply for a CVOR certificate to complete a CVOR written test.

Oct 15, 2014

Sports Turf announces manager of the year

Ray Stukas, Manager of Parks, Toronto and East York District, for the City of Toronto, is the 2014 Sports Turf Manager of the Year.

Oct 15, 2014

Durham College crowdfunding campaign

On Aug. 19, Durham College launched Field to Fork: Sowing the Seeds of our Community, its first-ever crowdfunding campaign.

Oct 15, 2014

WSIB 2015 rates stay the same

The WSIB has announced that premium rates will be maintained at current levels for all employers in 2015.

Oct 15, 2014

Time to prevent rodent damage

This past winter saw unprecedented levels of rodent feeding injury on landscape plants and nursery stock.

Oct 15, 2014

Governments launch Job Grant program

Ontario is accepting employer applications for the Canada Job Grant.

Oct 15, 2014

New training standards coming for JHSCs

Ontario’s Ministry of Labour has released two new certification training standards expected to take effect in early 2015.

Sep 15, 2014

Reminder: MTO circle check required on commercial vehicles

The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) requires all owners of Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMV) to complete a formal circle check of their vehicles and attached trailers every 24 hours.

From left: John F.T. Scott, Chair, Vineland’s Board of Directors; Dr. Michael Brownbridge, Research Director, Horticultural Production Systems at Vineland; Dean Allison, member of Parliament for Niagara West—Glanbrook; Dr. Daryl Somers, Research Director, Applied Genomics at Vineland; Pierre Lemieux, Parliamentary Secretary to Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz.

Sep 15, 2014

Vineland receives $2.5-million in research funds

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre produced a great many smiles when they announced $2.5 million was approved for the Centre.

Aug 15, 2014

Changes coming in 2015 for outside accessibility

Ontario’s Building Code has been amended to include enhancements to accessibility in buildings.

Aug 15, 2014

Employer Adviser warns of bills coming before Queen’s Park

This bill had not been re-introduced as of July 16.

Aug 15, 2014

National Tree Day

Members of Landscape Ontario will once again have the opportunity to become involved in National Tree Day on Sept. 24.

Aug 15, 2014

IPPS conference coming to Niagara

Its theme is Improve Your Ground Game.

Aug 15, 2014

Recommendations for Kemptville College

Over 200 people were in attendance at the Kemptville College Renewal Task Force town hall meeting on July 16.

Aug 15, 2014

LO member makes donation to Trinidad school

Long-time LO member Fred Prescod CLT helped a school in his country of birth, Trinidad.

Aug 15, 2014

Greening the Highways project continues in Niagara area

The project is a five-year study of tree growth at five highway sites in Niagara.

Tetrastichus planipennisi, a natural enemy of emerald ash borer, offers hope as a management tool.

Aug 15, 2014

Wasps released to combat EAB

Wasps have been released in limited areas in Huron County, southwestern Ontario, by Natural Resources Canada.

Jul 15, 2014

Tips on how to comply with new anti-spam law

Compliance came into force July 1, 2014.

Jul 15, 2014

Registration in apprenticeship training programs up in 2012

Highest increase recorded since 2008 economic downturn.

Jul 15, 2014

Sports Turf manager of the year

Congratulations go to Ray Stukas.

Jul 15, 2014

Deputy mayor says tree canopy in bad shape

Groups discuss condition of Toronto's tree canopy.

Jul 15, 2014

Kemptville Task Force ready to work with new government

Options for a renewed Kemptville College to be presented July 16.

Jul 15, 2014

Dig Safe Expo coming to LO

Sept. 18 event to include information sessions, interactive demos and friendly competition.

Jul 15, 2014

Fines handed out for not registering with WSIB

For over a year now, nearly everyone working in construction in Ontario has been required to register with the WSIB.

Jul 15, 2014

Canada Blooms names new general manager

Terry Caddo brings experience in management, marketing, sales, communications and more.

Jul 15, 2014

Changes coming for Joint Health and Safety Committee Training

Changes expected to be implemented in early 2015.

Jun 15, 2014

Still time to be involved in plastic recycling

Ontario garden centres may become drop-off depots for used garden plastics.

Left to right: Gary Lacy, Executive Director NCC; John Cary, Chief Executive MLF; Dr. Mark Kristmanson, Chief Executive Officer NCC; Tony DiGiovanni, Executive Director Landscape Ontario; Ken Jewett, founder MLF; James Jewett, Director MLF; Marc Corriveau, Director Urban Lands and Transportation; Mike Rosen, President Tree Canada.

Jun 15, 2014

Group wants native maples in Ottawa

Group makes presentation to the National Capital Commission.

May 15, 2014

New guide for container nursery crop fertilization

Research project helping Ontario nursery growers save money and protect the environment.

May 15, 2014

MTO circle check required on commercial vehicles

Daily vehicle inspection ensures early identification of vehicle problems and defects before the vehicle is operated on the highway.

May 15, 2014

Grey to Green Conference set for this August

Second annual event to be held Aug. 25-26 in downtown Toronto.

May 15, 2014

World crop vegetable gardens hot new trend in Ontario

Gardeners of all ages inspired by the local food movement.

May 15, 2014

Garden centres may sign-up for recycling program

National Plastic Recycling Event to run June 20 to July 1.

May 15, 2014

LO public relations director named National Garden Day spokesperson

The event is supported by CNLA, Canada’s Garden Council and other stakeholder groups.

May 15, 2014

Inspection blitzes and initiatives begin this month

Fall protection and excavation and trenching activities to be the focus.

May 15, 2014

Vineland receives $26.5 million

The funding will go toward assisting the horticulture industry through the five-year federal-provincial-territorial initiative.

Apr 15, 2014

College of Trades spokesperson says members will be heard

Members include Apprentices, certified workers in compulsory trades, employers who employ journeypersons or who sponsor/employ apprentices, and those in voluntary trades who choose to join.

Apr 15, 2014

Guelph’s Garden Day will mark anniversaries

Garden Day celebrations will be extra special to mark the University of Guelph’s 50th anniversary, the OAC’s 140th and the 65th anniversary of the OAC Class of 1949.

Gerry Ginsberg at Canada Blooms in 2013.

Apr 15, 2014

Gerry Ginsberg inducted into hall of fame

Honour took place on Mar. 1 during FEO’s Annual Conference Excite and Energize held in Richmond Hill.

In 2011 the Ontario Invasive Plant Council released this guide, Grow Me Instead.

Apr 15, 2014

Province introduces Invasive Species Act

Proposed legislation was introduced in the provincial legislature on Feb. 26.

Apr 15, 2014

U. of G. to close Kemptville campus

University sites stalled enrollment and rising costs are the main reasons for the move.

Apr 15, 2014

Latest WSIB recommendation reduces rate group numbers

Document recommends broad changes to the current WSIB funding system.

Mar 15, 2014

In Memoriam — Manuel Fernandes Coito

President and founder of Coivic Contracting in Hornby, Ont., passed away at the age of 73.

Mar 15, 2014

Minimum wage hike raising concerns

Ontario’s minimum wage will increase by 75 cents an hour to $11, starting June 1.

Mar 15, 2014

Landscape Ontario part of project investing in living green infrastructure

Design days will be held in four cities with carefully selected community stakeholders.

Mar 15, 2014

Three projects approved for government funding

Total value of the three projects announced on Feb. 12 is $87,589.

Bill Hardy, chair of the CNLA Public Relations Committee, presents Grant Harrison, London Chapter president, and Barry Sandler, executive director of the Veterans Memorial Parkway Community Program, with the Green for Life Community Award.

Mar 15, 2014

Landscape Ontario members dominate national awards

Landscape Newfoundland and Labrador hosted the event that featured 41 entries from across Canada.

Feb 20, 2014

In Memoriam — Henry Tillaart Sr.

The world lost entrepreneur, Henry Tillaart Senior, on Feb. 19, 2014.

Feb 15, 2014

CN to continue funding green properties program

From the Ground Up Program will continue to invite applications for tree planting and other green spaces programs.

Feb 15, 2014

Niagara Parks names new superintendent

Charles Hunter brings over 10 years of experience as instructor/curator at the School of Horticulture and a wealth of experience in world class floral exhibitions.

The December 2013 ice storm may draw attention to the benefits of the proper care and pruning of urban trees.

Feb 15, 2014

Ice storm may benefit trees

Ice storm provides opportunity to connect with the media, the public and government officials on important arboriculture issues.

Jan 15, 2014

Small Businesses Act starts Jan. 1

Most employers to save up to $975 every year.

Jan 15, 2014

Asian long-horned beetle in Mississauga

Regulatory area setup to help eliminate the pest.

Jan 15, 2014

Mandatory safety training coming July 1

Government introducing new training to help protect workers and keep them safe on the job.

Designed ecologies by Dr. Yu are wild and beautiful. Skywalks allow pedestrians to access the landscape.

Jan 15, 2014

Healing the landscape with designed ecologies

Evening lecture featured Dr. Kongjian Yu, dean of Peking University and principal designer.

Nov 15, 2013

John Deere sells landscape segment interest

John Deere Landscapes remains part of company's agriculture and turf segment.

Nov 15, 2013

Markham has interactive maps for ash tree ID

Tool also allows residents to find out if emerald ash borer has attacked the tree.

Nov 15, 2013

Plant Products announces plans for new location

New facility to open in Ancaster, Ont., by January 2014

Nov 15, 2013

EAB found in Peterborough and Algoma

Sightings of emerald ash borer (EAB) confirmed at new locations in Ontario and Quebec on Oct. 21.

New online tool can help greenhouse and nursery sector with water treatment information.

Nov 15, 2013

New website offers water management technology info for nursery sector

The website will be updated as new technologies and information emerge.

Nov 15, 2013

Greenhouse conference features workshop on workshops

35th annual event to be held at Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls, Ont.

Nov 15, 2013

Timing top dressing to reduce fertilizer loss

Research looks at how much fertilizer is lost when plants fall over.

Oct 21, 2013

Asian long-horned beetle found in Mississauga

Pest confirmed in an industrial area near Pearson International Airport in Mississauga.

Oct 15, 2013

New operators must pass CVOR test

New rules take effect October 1, 2013.

Students planting a four-year grafted butternut at Humber Arboretum

Oct 15, 2013

Humber launches project to conserve endangered trees

Efforts focused on preserving endangered butternut tree.

Sep 15, 2013

How much money does that tree in your yard save you?

Ryerson professor has developed an online device to calculate the energy savings of specific trees.

Sep 15, 2013

Stats show older skilled workers far outnumber young

Stats Canada figures show shortage of skilled-trades workers.

Sep 15, 2013

Online courses help reduce accidents

Marsh Canada now offering members four online courses aimed at reducing accidents.

Sep 15, 2013

Mississauga may charge more taxes for properties with no lawns

Charges would be based on how much of a burden the property puts on the city’s storm-water management system.

Sep 15, 2013

Fertilizer container recycling program available

Clean Farms is accepting plastic fertilizer jugs and pails under 23 litres as part of its annual recycling program.

Sep 15, 2013

Ash borer confirmed in Orangeville and Lanark

Pest now confirmed in 34 Ontario counties and in eight areas of Quebec.

Sep 15, 2013

Avoid risking life and limb in managing the emerald ash borer

Professional arborists are required to do the job properly and safely.

Aug 15, 2013

WSIB 2014 Premium Rates stay the same

2014 rates may be viewed online.

Aug 15, 2013

Panel investigating minimum wage

Advisory panel to give advice on the province’s minimum wage.

Aug 15, 2013

Emerald ash borer confirmed in Kawartha Lakes

Pest discovered in Fenelon Falls.

Aug 15, 2013

Work to reduce horticultural plastic beginning to pay off

Last year, 50 gardens centres across Canada collected over 90,000 lbs. of material.

Once again members of Landscape Ontario will have an opportunity to become involved in National Tree Day on Sept. 25. This is the third year for the event. In photo, at the inaugural celebration, members plant a tree at the LO home office site in Milton.

Aug 15, 2013

National Tree Day is Sept. 25

Most events have taken place at schools.

Jul 15, 2013

EAB detected in Arnprior area

Movement restrictions of all ash materials, such as logs, branches and wood chips, and all species of firewood are in place.

Jul 15, 2013

Smart about Salt names Leanne Lobe as new executive director

Lobe co-designed the Smart about Salt Program with Bob Hodgins and has been heavily involved with the program since its inception.

Jul 15, 2013

Conference addresses benefits of green infrastructure

First-ever Grey to Green Conference held at Evergreen Brickworks in Toronto, May 21-22.

Jul 15, 2013

New online resource helps employers with compliance

Ministry of Labour has resources to help understand rights and responsibilities under Employment Standards Act.

Jul 15, 2013

Survey to determine spread of stink bug

Established in the Hamilton area and expected to spread, the pest poses a significant risk to horticulture crops.

Jun 15, 2013

EAB regulated areas expanded

Changes in regulated areas result of new detections of the beetle.

Jun 15, 2013

London tree planting project funded

Goal is to plant one million trees in the City of London.

Jun 15, 2013

MGS announces purchase of Plant Products

Deal to close June 21.

Jun 15, 2013

Green roof industry up 24 per cent

Washington, D.C. installed the most green roofs in North America with 1,326,872 square feet.

Jun 15, 2013

Research team looks at biopesticides for lawn care industry

Project addressed the problem of white grubs and chinch bugs in lawn turf.

The National Plastics Recycling Event takes place from June 21 to July 1.

Jun 15, 2013

Plastics recycling event begins June 25

The 2013 National Plastics Recycling Event will run until July 1.

May 31, 2013

Heat stress is concern for industry

May 15, 2013

Safety case study: Cindy takes a tumble

The Occupational Health and Safety Act requires employers to ensure workers are supervised and trained properly.

Last year over 91,000 lbs. of horticultural plastic was recycled.

May 15, 2013

Garden centres can sign-up for recycling program

National Plastic Recycling Event will run from June 21 to July 1.

May 15, 2013

Asian long-horned beetle eradicated

Pest was last detected inside the regulated area in December 2007.

Experimental layout at Connon Nurseries/CBV. Soil moisture sensors are inserted to the centre of the potting substrate. A computer was located in an office, 1 km from this site for recording and displaying growing substrate moisture levels in the pot, and for wireless control of irrigation.

May 15, 2013

Wireless soil moisture sensors a good option for pot-in-pot system

Pot-in-pot production technology is becoming popular in caliper tree productions in nursery operations.

The Artist’s Colony (Gardens) by Kim Adams is a true horticultural work of art, featuring green roof gardens, a vineyard, hop field and vegetable gardens.

Apr 15, 2013

Artist creates horticultural installation at AGO

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) on Dundas Street West in Toronto is featuring a horticultural work of art by Canadian artist, Kim Adams.

Apr 15, 2013

Off-road tire fees increase

Ontario Tire Stewardship (OTS) has announced increased fees for off-road tires that take effect Apr. 1.

Apr 15, 2013

Harper addresses EI changes

Prime Minister Stephen Harper spoke to the concern on the issue of the employment insurance program and seasonal workers.

Apr 15, 2013

College of Trades begins its regulatory duties

On Apr. 8, the Ontario College of Trades began registering members.

Mar 15, 2013

Research looks at wildflowers for domestic market

A project underway at the University of Guelph is working towards introducing domestic wildflowers into commercial landscaping applications.

Mar 15, 2013

Thomas Equipment announces new dealer

Thomas Equipment has announced the appointment of Ashots Outdoor Power Equipment as a new dealer serving the Mississauga area in Southern Ontario.

Mar 15, 2013

Defining overtime and landscape gardeners

Employers of landscape gardeners are exempt from the requirement to pay overtime.

The Landmark Group of Thornbury received the Dynascape Award of Excellence for Landscape Design. In photo, from left, Mike Bosch, president of Dynascape; Gary Nordeman and Darren Bosch, both of The Landmark Group; and Joe Salemi, Dynascape product marketing manager.

Mar 15, 2013

CNLA honours Canada’s best

Ontario hosted the 10th annual Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) National Awards of Landscape Excellence ceremony at the Hilton Hotel — Fallsview in Niagara Falls on Jan. 30.

Feb 15, 2013

Allison achieves certification first

John Allison is the first in Ontario to achieve Landscape Industry Certified Technician, Designer and Manager designations.

Feb 15, 2013

U. of G. research examines winter survival of green roofs

A new University of Guelph study shows growers how they can help green roof plants survive southern Ontario winters without unnecessary fertilizer costs.

Feb 15, 2013

Lawn care certification exam now available

The Landscape Industry Certified Lawn Care Technician exam is now available to members of the sector.

Feb 15, 2013

New program requires safety awareness training

New requirements will force employers to ensure that all workers and supervisors complete occupational health and safety awareness training programs.

Elms still grace many streets in Edmonton.

Feb 15, 2013

Research may bring white elm back to streets

Many people today have little experience with the incredible canopy that the American, or white, elm (Ulmus americana) once produced over our cities and rural roads.

Jan 15, 2013

Echo helps college program

Decked out in their red outfits, students of the Fanshawe College’s horticulture program gathered to thank Echo Power Equipment for the use of many pieces of equipment.

Jan 15, 2013

Chinese delegation at LO

The Smart about Salt program has been gaining great momentum and acceptance across Ontario, but recently reached across to the other side of the world.

Toro president Phil Burkart, left, presents Chris Le Conte of Smart Watering Systems with the 2012 Crawford Reid Memorial Award.

Jan 15, 2013

Le Conte receives irrigation award

LO’s Irrigation Sector Group past chair Chris Le Conte of Smart Watering Systems in Milton, has been awarded the Crawford Reid Memorial Award.

Jan 15, 2013

WSIB says appeals now faster

Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) says part of its ongoing transformation is the modernization of its appeals program, “to ensure timely, fair and transparent resolutions.”

Jan 15, 2013

Freeman maple may be the best tree for urban settings

The search for the best urban tree may well end in the red and silver maple hybrid known as the Freeman maple (Acer x freemanii).

Dec 15, 2012

2013 WSIB premium rates

WSIB premium rates will increase by 2.5 per cent for all employer rate groups in 2013

Dec 15, 2012

Changes coming to WSIB coverage

Effective Jan. 1, 2013, mandatory WSIB coverage is required for nearly everyone working in the construction industry.

Nov 15, 2012

Vineland receives $50,000 to help growers

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre has received $50,000 to assist the Canadian Ornamental Horticulture Alliance in developing an innovation strategy for its members in the flowers, nursery and landscape sectors.

Nov 15, 2012

Greenhouse conference features Anna Ball

The 33rd annual Canadian Greenhouse Conference, held Oct. 3-4 at the Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls, featured two days of education sessions and a trade show with over 300 booths.

Oct 15, 2012

Irrigation industry now certified

Voluntary certification programs for those in the irrigation sector have been announced.

Oct 15, 2012

Industry still concerned with EI changes

CNLA says it is continuing to push for a meeting and further resolution to the industry’s concerns on the recent changes to Employment Insurance (EI).

Sep 15, 2012

St. Williams Nursery welcomes David Turnbull

St. Williams Nursery and Ecology Centre in St. Williams has announced the hiring of David Turnbull as sales representative.

Sep 15, 2012

Emerald ash borer confirmed in Frontenac

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency confirmed the presence of the emerald ash borer (EAB) in Frontenac County.

Sep 15, 2012

Humber announces new arboretum director

Denise Devlin-Li, dean of Humber School of Applied Technology, announced the appointment of Alexandra (Alix) Link to the position of director of the Humber Arboretum.

Sep 15, 2012

Government pays 85% of apprenticeship program

The provincial government will pay 85 per cent of the apprenticeship training program for employees registered for 2013 horticultural winter apprenticeship training.

Sep 15, 2012

Businesses must heed telemarketing rules

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) is asking members of Landscape Ontario to ensure they are in compliance with unsolicited telecommunications rules.

Sep 15, 2012

IPPS meets in Ottawa

A two-day special meeting of the International Plant Propagators Society (IPPS), Eastern Region, took place in Ottawa on July 25 and 26.

Sep 15, 2012

Research highlights chinch bugs and sustainable lawns

Research is focusing on ways of reliably and cost-effectively using these biological control agents and other natural products to control chinch bugs in the urban environment.

Aug 15, 2012

IPPS tours Ottawa

The International Plant Propagator’s Society area meeting and tour took place in Ottawa on July 25 and 26.

Aug 15, 2012

WSIB campaign informs construction employers

The new law is effective January 1, 2013.

Aug 15, 2012

Dry stone festival offers special day for students

The Stonewurx International Dry Stone Walling Festival will celebrate the ancient craft of dry stone walling from Sept. 28 to 30 in Hanover.

Aug 15, 2012

Fears expressed about cuts to AgriStability

Concern is being raised over the federal government looking at significant cuts to a key program for growers, AgriStability.

Aug 15, 2012

Fleet rated insurance requires qualification

Due to some confusion as to what constitutes an automobile fleet, the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) has outlined the qualifying criteria.

Aug 15, 2012

LO promoting World Garden Event

Landscape Ontario is a driving force behind the Niagara World Garden Event in 2017.

Aug 15, 2012

WSIB receives independent review

"There are tough decisions to be made not the least of which is a decision about our insurance premium for employers for the next few years."

Aug 15, 2012

Oakville asks for government help

The Town of Oakville is calling on the federal and provincial governments to step up and join the fight against the emerald ash borer.

Aug 15, 2012

Long-term forecast shows drought continuing

The landscape industry is experiencing one of the worst summers of drought in history.

Aug 15, 2012

Recycling program sees 40 per cent increase

Nearly 100,000 lbs. of garden plastic was collected in the National Plastics Recycling Event held from June 22 to July 1.

Aug 15, 2012

Other EAB news

A biologist says the City of Ottawa might have inadvertently created a major environmental problem dealing with the emerald ash borer.

Aug 15, 2012

Emerald ash borer confirmed in Bruce County

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed in early July the presence of the emerald ash borer in Bruce County.

Jul 15, 2012

LO hosts its own snow show

Association sector group to hold conference for snow pros this September.

Many Ontario snow managers took the opportunity to attend the SIMA conference in Buffalo.

Jul 15, 2012

Many Ontario members travel to snow and ice event in Buffalo

For its 15th anniversary edition, the Snow and Ice Management Association’s (SIMA) Snow and Ice Symposium returned to Buffalo, N.Y.

Jul 15, 2012

Agricultural Adaption Program expires March 2014

The current Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program (CAAP) will expire March 2014.

Jul 15, 2012

Rules change on terminating employees

A recent decision issued by the Ontario Court of Appeal appears to have raised the cost of terminating employees.

Jul 15, 2012

Grow Me Instead project has official launch

The Grow Me Instead Guide highlights a variety of native and non-native plants that do well in gardens and are non-invasive in Ontario.

Jul 15, 2012

Banking hours is an Alternative to EI

A strategy to tackle the issue of retaining valued employees in seasonal work is banking hours.

Jul 15, 2012

Seasonal workers face new rules for EI

The federal government’s amendments to Employment Insurance will take effect in early 2013.

Jul 15, 2012

Employers required to post safety poster

The poster summarizes workers’ health and safety rights and responsibilities and the responsibilities of employers and supervisors.

Jul 15, 2012

Ontario well-represented in national recycling event

In Ontario nearly 20 garden centres signed up for the project this year, adding to the national total of 50 participants from eight provinces accepting recycling plastics at their garden centres.

Jul 15, 2012

Hamilton council requests change to pesticide ban

The City of Hamilton approved a report from its public works committee on June 14.

Jul 15, 2012

Bill to establish one-call centre passes

Bill 8, known as the Ontario Underground Infrastructure Notification System Act, 2012, is now law.

Jun 15, 2012

Blue ash may resist emerald ash borer

The city of London is examining suggestions that the blue ash may be resistant to the emerald ash borer.

Jun 15, 2012

Guelph scientists clone elm trees

Scientists at the University of Guelph say they have the ability to clone American elm trees, which have been found to survive repeated epidemics of their biggest killer — Dutch elm disease.

Jun 15, 2012

EI amendments coming in 2013

The federal government has announced amendments to Employment Insurance.

Jun 15, 2012

Guard against online predators

LO’s IT manager Ian Service has provided some good advice on protecting yourself from online predators.

Jun 15, 2012

Horticultural apprenticeship registrations available

Registration takes place at a Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU) office.

Jun 15, 2012

Push on to implement One Call legislation

Bill 8, the Ontario One Call Ltd. Act, will return to the Ontario Legislature for a third reading.

Jun 15, 2012

Trees for Life book inside

Included with this issue of Landscape Ontario magazine is a free copy of the new 32-page book Trees for Life: 52 Tips for a Greener World.

Jun 15, 2012

Vineland receives funds for robots and frost protection

The Government of Canada announced $2.5 million will be coming to Vineland Research and Innovation Centre to support the development of innovative horticultural technologies.

In the early part of the 20th century, traveling nursery salesmen sold plants that were delivered bareroot to homeowners in the spring. This page, from a turn-of-the-century saleman’s sample book for LaPointe Nursery in Geneva, N.Y., is illustrated with lavishly coloured apples.

Jun 15, 2012

Exhibit showcases centuries of horticultural education

If you are in downtown Toronto this summer, take time to visit the historical exhibition of British and Canadian works on horticulture at the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library at the University of Toronto.

Jun 15, 2012

OEA defending employers in WSIB cases

The Ontario Employer Advisor (OEA) is ready to take on its new mandate to represent employers who have been accused of a health and safety reprisal under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

Jun 15, 2012

Eye tracking technology for horticulture

A few weeks after the FedDev announcement, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre announced more high-tech research to help the industry.

Jun 15, 2012

Promotion celebrates National Tree Day

Although only a few companies have confirmed participation in National Tree Day on Sept. 26, the enthusiasm by organizers is high.

Members of the Trees for Life project are working to double Toronto’s tree canopy by 2050.

May 15, 2012

LO part of Trees for Life project

The Trees for Life project, formerly known as Toronto Tree Canopy Coalition, has set a goal to double the tree canopy of Toronto and surrounding areas by 2050.

May 15, 2012

Municipalities concerned with loss

Many Ontario municipalities are spending large portions of their budgets dealing with the ash borer issue.

May 15, 2012

Calls for halt to ash sales

In Peel Region, a group calling itself, Peel Region’s Urban Forest Strategy, called for a halt to the sale of ash trees in the municipality. It received council’s endorsement.

May 15, 2012

CFIA expands areas regulated for the emerald ash borer

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has expanded the ministerial order for the emerald ash borer in two areas of Ontario.

May 15, 2012

More insects in 2012

Pam Charbonneau, OMAFRA turfgrass specialist, says this spring has seen an increase in grub calls and infestations.

May 15, 2012

Final report approved on alternatives to ash

The final report on the Alternatives to Growing Ash and Norway Maple Trees in Nurseries has received approval from the Agricultural Adaptation Council.

May 15, 2012

Garden centre recycling program RETURNS

The 2012 National Plastics Recycling Event will run from June 22 to July 1.

May 15, 2012

LO and OPA play major roles in Green Infrastructure presentation

The 40-page report contained six recommendations that ask the Ontario government to have a greater focus on green infrastructure projects.

May 15, 2012

Protect outdoor workers from heat stress

When heat is combined with other stresses such as hard physical work, loss of fluids, fatigue or some medical conditions, it may lead to heat–related illness, disability and even death.

The shape of the fruit gives this tree its other name, hop hornbeam.

May 15, 2012

Ironwood offers some interesting features

If you are not yet appreciative of bark, perhaps ironwood will win you over.

Apr 15, 2012

Group wants funds to replace ash trees

A province-wide group has requested Queen’s Park and Ottawa provide funds to replant trees in towns and cities across Canada in reaction to the devastation caused by the emerald ash borer.

Apr 15, 2012

Cost of driving permits increases

Some fees will start rising this year and continue to go up until 2015.

Apr 15, 2012

Suggestions may keep insurance costs down

“Statistically, the use of driver controls has been shown to improve loss results for companies involved in hiring drivers to support their business functions,”

Apr 15, 2012

New rate for Fiesta approved

Neudorff has announced the approval of a new low rate for Fiesta Turf Weed Killer.

Apr 15, 2012

McCloskey praised in article

LO associate member McCloskey International received great praise in the March 2012 issue of Ontario East Economic Development.

Apr 15, 2012

New garden route for VIA

Sevreal changes have been announced to the VIA Rail Garden Route program.

Apr 15, 2012

Job Bank back online

The Service Canada Job Bank is now up and running.

Mar 15, 2012

Turfgrass symposium provides latest info

The 21st annual Ontario Turfgrass Symposium (OTS) brought together industry industry professionals, educators and researchers for two days, Feb. 22 and 23, at the University of Guelph.

Mar 15, 2012

Alternative plant promo for garden centres

The Ontario Invasive Plant Council (OIPC) is a non-profit organization founded in 2007 to develop a coordinated provincial response to the growing threat of invasive plants.

Mar 15, 2012

C. buxicola positive found in B.C.

Cylindrocladium buxicola (also known as C. pseudonaviculatum), commonly called box blight or boxwood leaf drop is a fungus that has been reported to occur on all Buxus species and cultivars.

Mar 15, 2012

Independent contractors must register this year for WSIB coverage

Independent operators with no employees, who perform ‘construction’ work, have until Dec. 31, 2012 to register their business with the WSIB.

Mar 15, 2012

New online tool helps with employee hours

The Ministry of Labour has launched an online tool to help employers confirm and comply with specific rules concerning employee hours of work.

Gary Zielke of John Deere, left, presents the John Deere Award of Excellence for Residential Landscape Maintenance to Brad Patton and Tracey Urbasik of Shades of Summer Landscaping and Maintenance.

Mar 15, 2012

Three Ontario companies bring home national titles

Three Landscape Ontario members brought national honours to the association, winning four major awards in the National Awards of Landscape Excellence.

Feb 15, 2012

In memoriam — Christopher Robert Graham

On Jan. 14, 2012, Chris Graham of Flesherton, in his 61st year, passed away.

Feb 15, 2012

MOL blitz in February

This month, the Ministry of Labour is conducting an inspection blitz on musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

Feb 15, 2012

Ash (Fraxinus) — a look ahead

Is it truly the end for this versatile genus?

Jan 15, 2012

Free green industry budgeting software

JPL Consulting is offering all members of Landscape Ontario its proprietary software, JPL Budgeting for Success 3000 Lite Version.

Jan 15, 2012

Bill 119 compliance at least a year away

A number of questions have been raised about changes to Bill 119, which extends the scope of mandatory workers compensation insurance to include executive officers, partners, and independent operators.

Dec 15, 2011

WSIB 2012 rates

Ontario’s workplace insurance system is in a transition period.

Dec 15, 2011

New accessibility rules in force this January

As of Jan. 1, 2012, all employers in Ontario who provide goods and services must be compliant with the Ontario’s new Accessibility Standard for Customer Service.

A group of 26 nursery people from Germany began a tour of Ontario at Vineland Research and Innovation Centre.

Nov 15, 2011

German visitors tour Ontario nurseries

Group of 26 nursery people from Germany travelled throughout Ontario and B.C.

Nov 15, 2011

Executive program looking to run in 2012

Landscape Industry Executive Program developed specifically for those in landscape profession.

Nov 15, 2011

Stanley shakes up retailers at greenhouse conference

Canadian Greenhouse Conference moves to new Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls this year.

Nov 15, 2011

Pallets targeted in November blitz

Workplaces with pallet racking are potential target for inspectors during a month-long blitz which began Nov. 1.

Oct 15, 2011

Nedlaw installs largest living wall

Nearly 1,600 square feet of wall is now home to more than 1,100 individual plants at Drexel University in Philadelphia.

Barry Benjamin, a past president of LO, helps plant a tree at LO home office in Milton to mark National Tree Day.

Oct 15, 2011

Over 150 trees planted on the first National Tree Day

Canada’s landscape horticulture industry enthusiastically embraced National Tree Day on Sept. 21.

Oct 15, 2011

Reward yourself: Events and opportunities at Expo

Canada’s premier fall show for the floral and garden industry runs Oct. 19-20.

Oct 15, 2011

Sifto resumes salt production after tornado

Sifto Canada has resumed production and shipping of rock salt to highway de-icing and chemical customers from its Goderich rock salt mine.

Oct 15, 2011

Sheridan Nurseries wins for best bathrooms

The Sheridan Nurseries Mississauga store won the Garden Centers of America Gold Bathroom Award.

Oct 15, 2011

Arborist shortage predicted as ash removal demand grows

Estimates show that within the next three to five years, huge stands of ash trees will be dead from the emerald ash borer (EAB) infestation.

Oct 15, 2011

Ailing impatiens have scientists and landscapers puzzled

Some LO members are reporting that in their many years of business, they have never seen impatiens in such a poor state as this past summer.

Looking over the plantings at the Yorkdale site.

Sep 15, 2011

Trees show good survival rate at highway planting sites

Just over one year ago, two sections along on the busiest highway in North America received a green make-over.

Visitors to Expo 2011 will find the products their customers want.

Sep 15, 2011

Learn and grow at Expo 2011

Expo 2011 has strengthened its position as Canada’s leading show for the garden and floral industry.

Sep 15, 2011

Communities see high costs as EAB spreads

Throughout this summer, reports continue to show the emerald ash borer (EAB) is spreading its way across North America.

Sep 15, 2011

Two years after pesticide ban, surveys show public and professional frustration

When the ban was enacted on April 22, 2009, lawn care professionals warned that negative impacts would begin to surface in a few years.

Sep 15, 2011

Partnership works to resolve industry’s labour issues

One of the most thorough surveys of labour issues and challenges facing the landscape horticulture industry was produced this summer.

Sep 15, 2011

New ag equipment guide from MTO

The Ministry of Transportation has developed a guide to provide general information and clarification for the laws that apply to farm equipment, and select provisions that apply to farm trucks.

Aug 15, 2011

Brown marmorated stink bug confirmed in Ontario

The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs has confirmed the presence of the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) in Ontario.

Karl Stensson believes that the pathway to success lies in getting back to basics and offering what customers are looking for.

Aug 15, 2011

Stensson keynote to reveal secrets at Expo

A phenomenon swept North America back in 2006 — The Secret.

Aug 15, 2011

Canada Blooms is a societal game changer

Now that everyone knows Canada Blooms and the National Home Show will co-locate, it is an excellent time for us to reflect on the purpose and goals of the number one gardening event in the country.

Aug 15, 2011

Plastic recycling program evolves and increases intake

The 2011 version of the National Plastics Recycling event saw over 76,000 pounds of material collected across Canada from June 25 to July 4.

A total of 41 candidates took the next step toward certifying their professional standards.

Aug 15, 2011

Over 40 candidates challenge Certified tests

Candidates, judges and volunteers battled oppressive heat and humidity during the annual two-day testing event.

Aug 15, 2011

Vineland welcomes new research team members

Three research scientists have joined Vineland Research and Innovation Centre team.

Aug 15, 2011

Water festival now major event

What began as a small gathering of water gardening enthusiasts seven years ago has evolved into one of Ottawa’s most popular horticultural events.

Aug 15, 2011

DDR sold

DDR Landscape Contractors announced the sale of the company to TGC Acquisition Corporation on July 8.

Jul 15, 2011

Industry debates underground economy

The issue of accepting cash payments in return for discount prices or avoiding tax is big for many members of Landscape Ontario.

Jul 15, 2011

Quebec acknowledges 2,4-D safety, won’t change Ontario ban

An agreement was reached as part of the settlement of a NAFTA dispute that challenged the Quebec government’s ban on certain uses of 2,4-D as being without scientific basis.

Jul 15, 2011

Certification — the industry’s best kept secret

There is a place that once a year springs to life and demonstrates everything that we, as professionals, hope to believe is possible.

Jul 15, 2011

Snow in July?

Snow in July? Nope, it’s all about snow in September! Each fall, Landscape Ontario holds a snow and ice symposium, which is typically a sold-out event.

Jun 15, 2011

Interim salting report released

Research project aims to develop a better understanding of the conditions that influence the effectiveness of commonly used deicing and anti-icing treatments for parking lots and sidewalks.

Jun 15, 2011

Young workers blitz targets landscaping sites

Since early May, health and safety inspectors have focused on workplaces where many new and young workers are employed.

Jun 15, 2011

Changes coming to health and safety system

Ontario health and safety system is about to undergo some major changes.

May 15, 2011

Many fronts open in fight against EAB

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has invoked a ministerial order that empowers the agency to regulate the movement of all ash tree materials and all firewood from specific areas of Ontario and Quebec.

May 15, 2011

New bill will change underground locate system

Sarnia-Lambton MPP Bob Bailey saw his private member’s bill Call Before You Dig Act receive all-party support.

May 15, 2011

Canada Skills adds design as part of contest

A second landscaping skill was added to the highly popular Skills Canada program.

May 15, 2011

Bienenstock wins business award

Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds received the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Business Achievement Award in the small business category.

May 15, 2011

Living wall installed at Loyalist College

LO member Nedlaw Living Walls completed the installation of a three by eight metre living wall at Loyalist College in Belleville.

May 15, 2011

Niagara students noticed at U.S. Career Days

The Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) Student Career Days in the U.S. is a four-day annual competition among students enrolled in horticulture college programs.

May 15, 2011

Lawn care sector still searching for tools after pesticide ban

Members of the lawn care sector are well into a new season, and still looking for a product that will improve the industry's business climate.

May 15, 2011

Miller Group among 50 best managed

LO member, The Miller Group was among the 50 Best Managed Companies in Canada in 2010.

May 15, 2011

Home gardeners have early peek at Proven Winners

Proven Winners has been holding its Outdoor Living Extravaganza events at various cities in North America for several years.

May 15, 2011

Green roof industry grows by nearly 30 per cent

Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRHC) announced that its annual survey of corporate members has shown that the green roof industry grew by 28.5 per cent over 2010, up significantly from 16 per cent growth recorded in 2009.

Apr 15, 2011

2011-2012 MOL provincial blitzes schedule

Information on the ministry’s blitzes.

Apr 15, 2011

Changes expected in workplace health and safety laws

The Ontario government is proposing amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act.

Apr 15, 2011

Vineland unveils expansion plans

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre has announced plans for a new 25,000-sq. ft. facility.

Apr 15, 2011

Grand opening of Kooy Brothers

The grand opening of the Kooy Brothers’ impressive new home on Mar. 25 was truly a family affair.

Jason Becker of Caterpillar, left, and Randy Tumber president of Tumber & Associates, winner of the Caterpillar Award of Excellence for Landscape Construction/Installation.

Mar 15, 2011

Ontario sweeps national awards

The Awards of Excellence program is designed to help members of this great industry tell their story by showcasing and celebrating the best of the best.

Mar 15, 2011

Take a practical approach to prevent workplace violence

When Queen’s Park passed Bill 168 on workplace violence and harassment in 2010, a collective groan rose from landscapers and growers across the province.

Mar 15, 2011

Owner of Verbinnen’s Nursery is founder of charity group helping to feed world’s hungry

Nursery owner, John Verbinnen is the founder of the Ontario Christian Gleaners.

Mar 15, 2011

Study looks at invasive plants

A group of international scientists are studying some introduced species that dominate new habitats when native plants should technically have the advantage.

Mar 15, 2011

Rittenhouse family in hall of fame

Over 500 people witnessed M.K. Rittenhouse (1884-1980) receive the Niagara Entrepreneur of the Year Historical Hall of Fame Award.

Feb 15, 2011

Second Canadian Garden Tourism Conference set for Toronto

The second, Canadian Garden Tourism Conference will take place Mar. 14 and 15, at the Delta Chelsea Hotel in Toronto.

Feb 15, 2011

Nematodes found in Canadian study could be the answer to resolving EAB problem

An indigenous nematode species, that apparently paralyzes and kills emerald ash borer (EAB) by injecting either a bacteria or a toxic substance, has been found in old outbreak sites in Ontario.

Feb 15, 2011

Guidelines published for rainwater harvesting

The recently published Ontario Guidelines for Residential Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) Systems are the first of its kind in the province.

Feb 15, 2011

Sheridan Nurseries loses former president

After a brief illness, Howard Herman Stensson passed away in his sleep on Jan. 16, at the age of 98.

Jan 15, 2011

Clarification on WSIB 2011 rates

The November issue of Horticulture Review published the new Ontario Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) rates.

Tony DiGiovanni, left, and Paul Ronan speak to the 150 gathered for the Green Infrastructure Coalition’s strategy launch at Evergreen Brick Works in the Don Valley.

Dec 15, 2010

Green Infrastructure Coalition calls for governments to invest in green projects

Members of the Green Infrastructure Ontario Coalition celebrated another step in its evolution on Nov. 22.

Dec 15, 2010

IPM Symposium offered one day only

There are many new features at the IPM Symposium in 2011. The list includes a new format and new networking opportunities, supported by a new energy. And, of course, it all takes place in the new year.

Dec 15, 2010

Online plant encyclopedia follows Wikipedia example

The Plant Encyclopedia is a new innovation that provides information and images of cultivated plants.

Dec 15, 2010

Vineland appoints business development director

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre has announced the appointment of Darlene Homonko to the position of director of business development.

Dec 15, 2010

ORCGA plans seminar for Mar. 24

Underground Awareness seminar will be formally announced in January.

Nov 15, 2010

WSIB sets 2011 rates

Ontario’s Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) has increased the average premium rate for 2011 by two per cent.

Nov 15, 2010

HortProtect insurance carrier announces program underwriter

Marsh Canada, the exclusive insurance and risk management broker for the HortProtect Property and Casualty Insurance Program, announced the appointment on Oct. 15 of RSA as the underwriter program.

Nov 15, 2010

Emerald ash borer now in Wellington County

The emerald ash borer is quickly spreading throughout Ontario and Quebec.

Nov 15, 2010

Ontario sod growers begin Green Certification Program

The Nursery Sod Growers Association of Ontario (NSGA) has initiated a green certification program.

Oct 15, 2010

Companies needed to take part in salt research study

The Snow and Ice Management Sector Group of Landscape Ontario has commissioned a research study aimed to develop an optimum and defensible standard for salt application rates for parking lots.

Oct 15, 2010

New insurance carrier named for HortProtect

Marsh Canada has been appointed as the exclusive insurance and risk management broker for the HortProtect Property and Casualty Insurance Program.

Oct 15, 2010

Largest Ottawa numbers yet take part in certification day

The largest participation ever for certification testing in the Ottawa area saw 29 candidates taking part.

Oct 15, 2010

New weed-info service now online

A new website featuring the latest information, illustrations and photographs on weeds is now available.

Oct 15, 2010

Emerald ash borer confirmed in Perth County and Ottawa

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed two more emerald ash borer (EAB) findings in Ontario.

Oct 15, 2010

Vineland receives approval for $1.5 million research project

Federal funds to help create best practices for pest and weed control and reduce energy consumption.

Oct 15, 2010

Expo: The place to be for value, trends and networking

Expo, Canada’s fall show for the floral and garden industry, promises something of value for anyone in the green industry.

Oct 15, 2010

Canada Blooms voted a top-100 event

The American Bus Association (ABA) named Canada Blooms one of the Top 100 events in North America.

Oct 15, 2010

CNLA acquires Canadian rose genetics

Rose genetic materials have been transferred to Vineland Research and Innovation Centre with research already underway.

Those taking part in the tour of parks and conservation areas see first-hand the damage caused by invasive plants.

Sep 15, 2010

Group sees invasive plants compete with natives

In the spring of 2009, members of the horticulture industry and the conservation community came together to discuss shared concerns and take co-operative action to manage invasive plants and protect native vegetation.

Sep 15, 2010

Exciting changes announced for 2011 IPM symposium

A new format and a new energy are promised at the 2011 IPM Symposium.

Sep 15, 2010

Foundation announces 2010 scholarship winners

The Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation (OHTF) has announced its list of 2010 scholarship recipients.

Sep 15, 2010

Demand for Fiesta outweighs early supply

The demand from lawn care professionals for Fiesta this year far outweighed the forecasts.

Sep 15, 2010

WSIB announces changes to re-entry program

The WSIB is making significant changes to its labour market re-entry (LMR) program.

Aug 15, 2010

Work begins to study issue of locates

Within the next few weeks, Landscape Ontario and the Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance (ORCGA) will review plans to attack the issue of utility locates.

Aug 15, 2010

Be aware of restrictions when purchasing property

Nathan Helder, president of Gelderman Landscaping, wants his fellow Landscape Ontario members to be aware of potential restrictions when purchasing property.

Jul 15, 2010

Spending time in backyard is popular

Weather Network survey indicated enjoying the backyard is the most popular summer activity.

Jul 15, 2010

Tornado damages greenhouses

A tornado hit the Leamington area in early June causing extensive damage to a number of greenhouse operations.

Jul 15, 2010

Time to make mid-season airblast sprayer adjustments

In June it’s about mid-season for many orchard, high-bush and nursery spray applicators. Some airblast sprayers have already put in over 100 hours.

Jul 15, 2010

Ag Energy and university to develop solar technology

Ag Energy Co-operative is teaming up with the University of Waterloo to accelerate the research and development of a new solar photovoltaic (PV) technology.

Jul 15, 2010

Traps to detect emerald ash borer

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is using a new insect trap to detect and monitor the emerald ash borer (EAB) spread.

Jul 15, 2010

Garden Tourism group needs members

The Ontario Garden Tourism Coalition’s (OTGC) mission is to put the province’s gardens on the map of public consciousness.

Jul 15, 2010

Two Ontario projects part of sustainable sites study

Two Ontario projects are part of an international pilot project to evaluate a new rating system for sustainable landscapes.

Jul 15, 2010

Industry’s rally helps save Ottawa horticulture program

The horticulture industry members in Ottawa are being credited with preventing Algonquin College from cutting its horticulture program.

Jun 15, 2010

Is it legal to wear shorts at construction site?

"We as a landscape company have allowed employees to wear shorts in the summer."

Jun 15, 2010

High demand for new weed killer delays shipments to Ontario

Demand for the newest approved weed killer is much higher than forecasted, causing slight delays in shipments.

May 15, 2010

Turf group gives life membership

Jane Arnett recognized for her outstanding contributions to the turfgrass industry.

May 15, 2010

New rules on tiedowns

Changes came into effect on Jan. 1, 2010 on the requirement not to use a tiedown, or a component of a tiedown, to secure cargo to a vehicle.

May 15, 2010

LO unveils fifth season of VIA Rail garden tour

Now in its fifth year, the VIA Rail Garden Route program, organized by Landscape Ontario, highlights some of Canada’s most magnificent feature gardens along VIA’s Halifax to Vancouver Island network.

May 15, 2010

Fiesta receives PMRA approval

In mid-April, Fiesta, a new weed control product manufactured by Neudorff North America, received its registration certificate from the PMRA. Complete Ontario approval is the next step.

Apr 15, 2010

CFIA working on citrus longhorned beetle regs

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency have asked for the industry’s help to be on the look-out for the possible presence of citrus longhorned beetle.

Apr 15, 2010

Fund of $300,000 for greening streets

A total of $300,000 in funding is available immediately for municipalities as part of the Greening of Main Street project.

Apr 15, 2010

Self-employed may qualify for EI benefits

Self-employed individuals may register for Employment Insurance (EI) special benefits as of Jan. 31, 2010.

Apr 15, 2010

Flowers Canada names new director

Andrew Kuyvenhoven, president of the Flowers Canada Board of Directors, has announced that Dean Shoemaker is the organization’s new executive director.

Apr 15, 2010

Minimum wage hike to $10.25

As of Mar. 31, the minimum wage in Ontario has increased 75 cents an hour.

Apr 15, 2010

Agency clarifies unlabelled tank mixes

There are a few benefits to tank mixing pest control products, such as saving time and fuel by making fewer trips over the crop with the sprayer.

Apr 15, 2010

Harmonized Sales Tax and landscape contractors

On July 1, 2010 the Ontario Retail Sales Tax (RST) will be combined with the federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) to create a federally administered Harmonized Sales Tax (HST).

Apr 15, 2010

In memoriam — Mark Smith

Mark Smith, a dedicated employee of Scott’s Landscaping of Jerseyville, passed away suddenly at home on Mar. 10, 2010, at the age of 38

Apr 15, 2010

Congress 2010 saves 139 trees

This is the second year that Congress has been involved in the Zero Waste Certificate program.

Apr 15, 2010

Hot and dry weather expected this summer

According to Environment Canada, Ontario will see a warmer and drier summer.

Apr 15, 2010

Clause allows HST savings on pre-payment of service

LO members may want to take advantage of the pre-payment clause in the HST system that allows for an eight per cent tax saving if payment is made before May 1.

Mar 15, 2010

New turfgrass display garden at GTI

Warm season grasses will be planted in 2010.

Mar 15, 2010

Industry wants education and certification as part of Toronto’s emission control plan

The meeting in early February provided an opportunity for LO members to express their opinions about the city’s proposal to reduce emissions from outdoor power equipment.

Mar 15, 2010

Taskforce planned to fight emerald ash borer

The emerald ash borer (EAB) has been detected in four locations in the Niagara Region.

Mar 15, 2010

TBG appoints new executive director

Toronto Botanical Garden’s new executive director Aldona Satterthwaite assumed the position on March 8.

Mar 15, 2010

Housing numbers continue to improve

According to Statistics Canada, housing sales and construction both continued the trend of increasing numbers.

Mar 15, 2010

New weed killer expected this summer

If all goes according to plan, members of the lawn care industry will have a new weapon in an arsenal that was wiped out following the Ontario pesticide ban in April 2009.

Mar 15, 2010

Protective clothing essential on the job

Regulations require that a worker wear and use the protective clothing and equipment necessary to protect against hazards.

Mar 15, 2010

Federal government to ban fertilizer-pesticide products

The federal government announced a decision to “uncouple” fertilizer-pesticide combination products intended for lawn and turf uses.

Mar 15, 2010

OHRF supports research chair

The Ontario Horticultural Research Foundation has announced a $100,000 contribution toward a research chair at Vineland Research and Innovation Centre and the Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) at the University of Guelph.

Feb 15, 2010

Act to protect workers from violence applies to all Ontario workplaces

Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act to protect workers against workplace violence comes into law on June 10, 2010.

Feb 15, 2010

Halton Region implements Horticultural Trade Use policies

On Dec. 16, 2009, Halton Regional Council adopted Official Plan Amendment No. 38 (ROPA 38).

Feb 15, 2010

Vineland Centre welcomes new members to the team

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre has announced five new members to its growing research team.

Jan 15, 2010

Two LO projects receive funds to research pesticide alternatives

Two LO projects are among the six announced to receive funds for research into finding alternatives to manage pests in lawns, gardens and parks.

Dec 15, 2009

Fine tuning of Sarritor continues in the field

The development of biological pest control products can be traced as far back as 400 BC in China. Today, these controls are essential parts of Integrated Pest Management practices.

Oct 15, 2009

Open house at Vineland introduces exciting project to green Ontario’s highways

A project to make Ontario highways more environmentally-friendly could have broad and far-reaching positive effects on the economy of the horticulture industry.

Oct 15, 2009

Research to develop a better petunia

A co-operative effort by Vineland Research and Innovation Centre and the University of Guelph will study methods to create a new and improved petunia.

Oct 15, 2009

Know your pests and diseases: Leafhopper

Leafhopper is a common name applied to any species from the family Cicadellidae. Leafhoppers belong to one of the largest families of plant-feeding insects.

Oct 15, 2009

As of Oct. 26, hand-held devices banned in Ontario

The Ontario government’s Bill 118 will become law on Oct.26. When it does become official, it will be illegal to use a hand-held device while operating a motor vehicle.

Sep 15, 2009

Know your pests and diseases: The Japanese beetle

The Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica (Newman), is a widespread and destructive pest of turf, landscape and ornamental plants.

Sep 15, 2009

Sites will accept obsolete pesticides in October

Members of the lawn care industry may use a long-time program to get rid of pesticides made obsolete by the newly-instituted Ontario pesticide ban.

Sep 15, 2009

WSIB announces preliminary rates for 2010

Ontario’s Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) has announced that it will freeze premium rates for employers in rate groups with “good health and safety records.”

Aug 15, 2009

Hogweed presents dangerous consequences for landscapers

There is invasive alien out there that is one of the most dangerous plants a horticulturist will come across.

Aug 15, 2009

Know your pests and diseases: Eastern tent caterpillar

Insects and diseases can threaten plant health.

Aug 15, 2009

Study underway to develop hazelnut cultivars

If all goes according to plan, in the near future nursery growers could be producing hazelnut trees for the Ontario food industry.

Aug 15, 2009

EAB regulatory action ordered in Ontario counties

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced a new regulation that prohibits the movement of ash material and firewood of all species from specific areas of Southwestern Ontario.

Jul 15, 2009

Safety vest rules

A worker who may be endangered by vehicular traffic shall wear a garment that covers at least his or her upper body and has the following features:

Jul 15, 2009

Know your pests and diseases

Insects and diseases can threaten plant health. As soon as you notice any abnormality in your plant’s appearance, begin a careful examination of the problem.

Jul 15, 2009

Vineland launches new website

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre has launched its new website www.vinelandresearch.com, which features the new Vineland Blog.

Jul 15, 2009

Emerald ash borer confirmed in Welland

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed that emerald ash borer (EAB) was found in Welland.

Jul 15, 2009

Damaged nozzles dampen profits

You have the best sprayer on the market. You know everything there is to know about how the weather affects spraying. You scouted your crop and today is a perfect time for spraying. You spent a LOT of money on your product. So, why did you get crummy coverage and poor control?

Jul 15, 2009

MTO revisions now in place to harmonize Facility Audit Program

On April 1, Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation (MTO) introduced a revision to the Facility Audit Program.

Jun 15, 2009

Outdoor workers and skin cancer

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Canada. The primary cause of skin cancer is sun exposure.

Jun 15, 2009

Avoid heat stress

Employers and workers are reminded to be aware of the health and safety dangers of heat stress and to protect themselves.

Jun 15, 2009

Fertilizer act is amended

The Government of Canada has announced an amendment to the regulations that will lengthen the fertilizer and supplement registration period.

Jun 15, 2009

Speed limiters mandatory on trucks

As of Jan. 1, 2009, most large trucks driven in Ontario are required to use electronic speed limiters that cap speed at 105 kilometres per hour.

Jun 15, 2009

Toronto approves green roofs bylaw

The City of Toronto passed a bylaw on May 27 that makes green roofs mandatory on all classes of new buildings.

Jun 15, 2009

Wasps used to detect emerald ash borer

Monitoring the emerald ash borer can be as simple as observing wasps return to their nests with their beetle prey.

Jun 15, 2009

Province offers incentive to hire summer students

An Ontario government program helps students find a summer job through free job search support and placement services.

Jun 15, 2009

LO representatives work to help create species at risk legislation

Early in 2006, the Ontario government announced its plan to review and update existing species at risk legislation in response to recommendations made in Ontario’s Biodiversity Strategy.

May 15, 2009

CFIA proposes to extend tree removal compensation

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is proposing an amendment to extend compensation to Dec. 31, 2014 for persons who have had trees removed because of the emerald ash borer, Asian long-horned beetle and brown spruce longhorn beetle.

May 15, 2009

Industry members negotiate through Ontario pesticide ban

Confusion is evident as industry members negotiate their way through Bill 64, Cosmetic Pesticide Ban Act.

May 15, 2009

Health and safety inspection blitz in June

For the second year in a row, the Ontario Ministry of Labour (MOL) is conducting a health and safety inspection blitz of workplaces where young workers (age 15-24) and newly assigned workers of any age are employed.

May 15, 2009

Pesticide collection this fall

A three-day province-wide collection program of obsolete pesticides is planned for this fall.

Apr 15, 2009

Nursery analyst on staff

Landscape Ontario is pleased to welcome its newest staff member, Francesco Pacelli, who has filled the position of nursery technical analyst.

Apr 15, 2009

IPM symposia see increased interest

For the 44th consecutive year, the IPM Symposia provided members of the green industry with up-to-date information on the latest research, products, ideas and strategies, including reports from OMAFRA and the MOE.

Apr 15, 2009

Tax credit brochure online

Landscape Ontario has created a pamphlet to help members communicate details of the Home Renovation Tax Credit (HRTC) in order that homeowners may maximize the tax credit.

Apr 15, 2009

Ontario pesticide ban becomes law on April 22

Ontario's cosmetic pesticides ban takes effect April 22, 2009.

Mar 15, 2009

EAB area may expand

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is proposing to establish two large regulated areas within the province to combat the increasing number of EAB findings throughout Ontario.

Mar 15, 2009

Report calls landscaping a growing industry

Increased awareness in both the public and private sectors of environmental issues is a major driver of landscape installations, making landscaping a source of aesthetic, ecological, and financial benefits.

Mar 15, 2009

CFIA confirms emerald ash borer present in the City of Hamilton

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced on Feb. 27 that it has confirmed the presence of the emerald ash borer (EAB) in the City of Hamilton.

Mar 15, 2009

Study shows landscaping is great investment

Recently LO’s first vice-president Tom Intven, president of Canadale Nurseries in St. Thomas, attended the ANLA Management Clinic in Louisville, Kentucky.

Mar 15, 2009

Major report is released on economic profile of Ontario turfgrass industry

A new 148 page report on the Ontario turfgrass industry reveals some impressive numbers for the lawncare sector.

Mar 15, 2009

Minimum wage to go up 75 cents

A 75-cent per hour increase in Ontario’s minimum wage will continue as planned at the end of March, despite the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) urging the province to cancel the increase, because of the poor condition of the economy.

Feb 15, 2009

A lesson: Recession and the hot dog vendor

There was an elderly man who had a profitable little business selling hot dogs on a busy street corner in a major city.

Jan 15, 2009

EAB found in Pickering

In early December, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed the presence of the emerald ash borer (EAB) in the city of Pickering.

Dec 15, 2008

Plum pox declining in Ontario

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has completed its 2008 plum pox virus (PPV) survey activities.

Nov 15, 2008

New energy and objectives for Vineland Research Station

For over 100 years, the Vineland Research and Innovation Centre has contributed to the horticultural industry.

Nov 15, 2008

Challange issued on Quebec’s ban of 2,4-D

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) will be used to test the Province of Quebec’s ban of 2,4-D.

Oct 15, 2008

Hannah Mathers heads co-operative research effort

The Ontario nursery and landscape industry is receiving some help with research initiatives, industry projects and extension activities in the person of Dr. Hannah Mathers.

Oct 15, 2008

John Deere closing Welland factory

John Deere’s last manufacturing facility in Canada, its Welland plant, will close by the end of 2009.

Oct 15, 2008

Canadian professional peat harvest down

The Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association (CSPMA) says the peat moss industry is facing one of its poorest harvest seasons on record.

Sep 15, 2008

Landscape Gardener exemption

Officials from Landscape Ontario and the Ministry of Labour met recently regarding the interpretation of certain exemptions within the Employment Standards Act, 2000.

Sep 15, 2008

Slowing the spread of EAB across Ontario

At press time, areas of emerald ash borer (EAB) infestation in Ontario include Oakville, Brampton and Ottawa, as well as southwestern Ontario.

Sep 15, 2008

Series of courses on green roofs

This fall a number of training courses by Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRHC) will cover everything from basic design to waterproofing.

Sep 15, 2008

Ontario sees record rainfall

Those in the landscape industry know first-hand that the summer of 2008 is the wettest on record in Ontario.

Sep 15, 2008

Land planning continues around Guelph Turfgrass Institute

Representatives from the Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation, the Ontario government (Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and Ministry of Energy and Public Infrastructure Renewal), the City of Guelph and the University of Guelph met to discuss the future of the Guelph Turfgrass Institute (GTI) at its current location.

Sep 15, 2008

CNLA supports the construction sector

The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association has implemented some new initiatives to benefit Canada’s landscape contractors.

Sep 15, 2008

Pesticide technician and trainee requirements

Pesticide use in Ontario is regulated by the Ministry of the Environment (MOE), which has a mandate to protect consumers and workers in trades that bring them into direct contact with pesticides.

Aug 15, 2008

Ash borer is confirmed in three more Ontario centres

Within a span of nine days, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced confirmations of the presence of emerald ash borer (EAB) in three more Ontario cities.

Aug 15, 2008

Online government service simplifies licensing process

A new online service called BizPaL simplifies the business permit, licence and other compliance regulation process for entrepreneurs.

Aug 15, 2008

Some WSIB rates up slightly

Most WSIB premium rates for 2009 will see a slight increase, with garden centres taking the biggest percentage hike at 5.3 per cent.

Aug 15, 2008

Letters on pesticide issue

In the executive director’s column by Tony DiGiovanni that appeared in the July issue of Horticulture Review, we promised to print any letters we received on the pesticide issue.

Aug 15, 2008

Outdoor workers: Watch for ticks

Blacklegged or deer ticks that carry Lyme disease are on the rise in southern Ontario.

Aug 15, 2008

Employers relieved to see court eliminate punitive damages

A late June decision by the Supreme Court of Canada has Canadian employers breathing a bit easier. The landmark case of Keays v. Honda Canada eliminated a $500,000 punitive damages award handed down by a lower court.

Jul 15, 2008

Green industry’s locate performance is poor

Data collected by the Ontario Regional Common Ground Alliance (ORCGA) states that, “The green industry had the highest percentage of no-locate damages among all industry types.”

Jul 15, 2008

Pesticide ban is now official

The pesticide ban in Ontario officially became law on Wednesday, June 18th, just before the legislature broke for a three-month recess.

Jul 15, 2008

Avoid the dangers of heat

Those in the horticultural trades have a love/hate relationship with summer.

Jul 15, 2008

Campaign to stop movement of firewood

The Government of Canada has launched a “Don’t Move Firewood” campaign to limit the spread of invasive species by vacationing Canadians this summer.

Jul 15, 2008

Price of fertilizer skyrockets

As if the landscape trades weren’t being hit hard enough with skyrocketing gasoline and diesel prices, along with pesticide bans, the cost of fertilizer has more than doubled.

Jun 15, 2008

Landscape Standards change in name only

Landscape Ontario’s Landscape Standards have undergone a minor name change, to become Landscape Guidelines.

Jun 15, 2008

Landscapers susceptible to tetanus

Most of us think that tetanus is something we get when stepping on a rusty nail.

Apr 15, 2008

Plans to revitalize former Vineland research station

The Vineland Research and Innovation Centre has established a Stakeholder Advisory Committee.

Apr 15, 2008

MTO safety rodeo is a first

Landscape Ontario and the Ministry of Transportation have scheduled a truck and trailer inspection day at the LO home office in Milton on Thurs., April 24.

Mar 15, 2008

Markham offers information session on upcoming pesticide bylaw

As of April 1, 2008, everyone who provides lawn care in Markham must be licensed to operate in the town. Attend an information session at the Markham Civic Centre on March 20 for more information.

Mar 15, 2008

Job bank website tracks labour shortages

By posting their help-wanted ads on the free Service Canada job bank website, LO members can help the organization monitor the labour shortages in the horticulture industry.

Mar 15, 2008

Emerald ash borer found in Toronto

For the first time, the emerald ash borer has been found in infested trees in Toronto.

Mar 15, 2008

Digging can be expensive

Did you ever think about the reasons we have so many strikes of underground lines in Ontario such as natural gas, hydro, telephone, cable, fiberoptics, water and sewer, lines?

Jan 15, 2008

Online turf survey important to industry

The Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation and the University of Guelph are conducting a survey in order to understand the economic impact of the Ontario turfgrass industry.

Jan 15, 2008

Hosta virus X: Watch for these symptoms

Hosta virus X (HVX) affects hosta cultivars in different ways, so it is impossible to give a definitive description of symptoms.

Jan 15, 2008

New Bylaw affects backyard pool construction

Those wishing to build a backyard pool in the City of Toronto have a new hurdle to clear, or in this case a fence.

Golf course association honours G.C. Duke Equipment

Proven Winners open house attracts growers and nursery operators

New version of mandatory injury poster available

Learn to grow your business at Congress ’19

Startup to build sprayer-spreaders

ASV adds Saskatchewan dealer

SBD supports Habitat for Humanity

Red River College cancels horticulture program

Maritimes look forward to HortEast

Congress Conference lineup announced

Mark’s Choice becomes title sponsor of Canada Blooms

Highway of Heroes tree campaign welcomes new team members

Celebrate National Tree Day Sept. 26

Cannabis Act in force October 17, 2018

Congress ’19 pre-show education announced

AAS releases annual report

NGB announces plant promotions

Spring Meadow supports breast cancer research

Industry recognizes Landry

Dynascape acquired by EverCommerce

HortEast set for Truro, N.S.

Leadership transition at Sheridan Nurseries

Alberta stages Green Industry Show

Salt inventory shortage: prepare yourself and your customers

Changes coming to certfication exam process

Toro announces staff changes

IQ Power Tools hires training manager

Color Spot files for bankruptcy protection

Research released on LED for horticulture

Bayer hires turf and ornamentals head

Lyme disease cases increase

Feds fund climate change mitigation

Caterpillar appoints CFO

EU expands neonicotinoid ban

Fredericton inoculation project

Health Canada studies imidacloprid’s impact on pollinators

Unique snow business event: Snowposium

Ontario students win silver at Skills Canada

Stay on top of new chronic stress legislation

Ontario government reverts to previous public holiday pay calculation method

New book now available on allergy potential in gardens

Ways to prevent heat stress

Ministry announces upcoming safety blitzes

Industry News June 2018

Snowposium moves to Brampton for 2018

Industry news April 2018

Hire a youth and get up to $2,000

Tulip Festival welcomes festivals from around the world

Annual Tulip Festival runs May 12-22

Register your Garden Days activities online

Grey to Green Conference coming in May

National charge-out rates survey

Six tips for spring safety

Online tool promotes tree success

Video series to help raise the standard of professional landscapes

Canada Blooms 2018

New version of mandatory poster released

Comment on proposed changes to pesticide licensing program

Give your input to ensure healthy soil in Ontario

Protect workers from occupational cancers

Industry news LT November 2017

Industry news January 2018

Municipality tree demand survey 2017

Urban Forestry toolkit now available

What you need to know about Bill 148

Bill 148 changes Ontario’s employment landscape

WSIB rates to rise in 2018

Silver screen theme at Canada Blooms 2018

In Memoriam John Zimmermann

New grant helps employers of apprentices

Changes for mental stress benefits

Turfgrass farmers to vote on marketing board

Industry leaders convene to determine research funding strategies

Law requires mandatory health and safety postings

Minimum wage increased Oct. 1

LO committee advocates for members

Slips, trips and falls safety blitz

Industry news September 2017

Industry news August 2017