November 27, 2024
A blue sky state of mind
BY KARINA SINCLAIR
In Whistler, B.C., there’s no watering on Sundays.
As we wrap up another year, I’m reminded to take stock of everything we’ve accomplished over the past 12 months and look ahead with a blue sky state of mind. Here at Landscape Trades, our editorial team is dedicated to providing readers with both inspiration and practical insights that fuel innovation and growth. Each issue is crafted to explore diverse topics that add value across the green industry — from horticulture therapy and artificial intelligence to road salt remediation and water conservation.
I am endlessly grateful to the people who make our six annual print issues, monthly e-newsletters and social media posts possible. Our talented columnists take time from their successful careers to share their expertise in garden centre management, urban forest technology, legal issues and best practices for small business owners. The landscape pros highlighted in our Mentor Moments are unfailingly humble and generous with their insights. We’re fortunate to work with talented writers who bring us fresh perspectives and deep research. And as managing editor, I’m honoured to work with the unsung heroes of Landscape Trades: Mike Wasilewski, Robert Ellidge, Greg Sumsion, Liz Lant, Angela Lindsay and Charlotte Guena. These talented and dedicated souls never get a byline, but they contribute their hearts and souls to making Landscape Trades the premier horticultural trade publication in Canada. Take a bow, team.
While on the topic of thanks, I’d like to express my appreciation for everyone who participated in our 2024 State of the Industry Survey. Your responses have given us a richer understanding of what’s happening in the green trades across the country. Despite having faced plenty of shared challenges this year, landscapers and horticulturalists are a wary, yet hopeful sort. Flip to page 30 to learn how landscapers like you are facing 2025 with resilience and resolve.
One thing to look forward to in the new year is the Landscape Ontario Congress Trade Show and Conference, taking place Jan. 7-9, 2025. It’s the biggest and longest-running trade show for landscape professionals in Canada and draws exhibitors and attendees from across North America. Head to page 40 to learn how Congress can provide the boost your business needs. My best advice — wear comfortable shoes. Your feet will thank you as you traverse nearly 10 acres to take advantage of all the learning and networking opportunities Congress has to offer. By the way, there’s still time to register and I’m delighted to offer Landscape Trades readers a VIP code to attend for free: LTMAG2025
Also looking forward, the next generation of landscapers is ready to make a meaningful contribution to the green industry. Julia Harmworth spoke with recent graduates of the Fanshawe College Landscape Technician program to capture their hopes and dreams for the green trades — find their youthful insights on page 46. Meanwhile, recent Niagara Parks School of Horticulture graduate Elissa Astorino shares the lessons she learned working abroad, including her unique experiences landscaping around bush turkeys in Australia. Her experience is documented starting on page 52.
Bush turkeys were not one of the key challenges that came up in our State of the Industry survey results, but you never know what the coming year might bring. As we close out this year, let’s all embrace a blue sky state of mind — looking ahead with optimism, inspired by both the seasoned professionals and emerging talent who make this industry vibrant. Together, we’ll tackle new challenges, explore untapped potential and continue growing a greener future. Here’s to a bright 2025 and the endless possibilities on the horizon.
We’d love to hear your feedback, story ideas and thoughts for future issues. Reach out to editor@landscapetrades.com (or stop by booth #1528 at Congress) and let’s chat!