The landscaping industry has experienced tremendous growth for many years, providing several economic benefits to society, especially with regards to employment. However, the industry provides many other social benefits beyond the economic measurement such as environmental, community pride, lifestyle, tourism and recreation.
The landscaping industry is currently positioned for continued future growth because of the many social trends that are occurring such as aging baby boomers interested in garden and garden-related activities during retirement, the return of staycations and the rising concern for the environment. Therefore, moving forward, the landscape industry is fostering strategic alliances with other business professionals to act on these social trends and work towards professional development.
At Congress 2010, a three-day horticultural, lawn and garden tradeshow taking place Jan. 12-14 at the Toronto Congress Centre, Landscape Ontario is partnering with the Ontario Parks Association, Communities in Bloom – Ontario and the Canadian Fence Industry Association as well as the aquatic leisure industry as a means of creating a one-stop buying and networking experience for business professionals.
Landscape Ontario’s Congress 2010 attracts more than 500 exhibitors, many of whom will be showcasing new and green products. Congress 2010 is Canada’s largest horticultural, lawn and garden tradeshow and conference.
The Ontario Parks Association will be running their annual Explorations 2010 tradeshow in conjunction with Congress 2010. The 17th annual parks, grounds and recreation facilities tradeshow is dedicated to showcasing products and services related to parks and green spaces sectors.
“We are extremely excited about the partnership that we have established with Landscape Ontario and other business professionals at Congress 2010,” said Paul Ronan, executive director of the Ontario Parks Association.
Several vendors from the aquatic leisure industry also are allying with the landscaping and fencing industries and will be participating at Congress 2010. Some of these vendors include builders and contractors, retailers, service providers, manufacturers and distributors of swimming pools, hot tubs and water feature products.
“It is always exciting to see what new products and trends exhibitors will bring to Congress because they will be influential in shaping the industry for the upcoming year,” said Paul Day, Congress show manager. “This year show attendees will see the trends towards green products since many landscape and garden companies are focusing their efforts towards minimizing not only their impact, but their customers’ impact on the environment.”
Some of the new green products that will be showcased at Congress 2010 include the following:
• TreeGator – Spectrum Products Inc. – Booth #GF35:
The Treegator Jr. PRO Slow Release (15 gallon) and the Treegator Original (20 gallon) are slow release watering bags for newly planted trees and shrubs.
• EcoMat Distribution Inc. – Booth #F24:
Their Timberwolf Composite Fence is SCS certified green and suitable for LEEDS projects, making it ideal for building projects requiring a certified green contribution. The material looks and feels like real wood, with a lifetime warranty to never need painting or staining.
• Sky Fuel Inc. – Booth #GF3:
The SolarCap Solar LED Paving Lights are ideal for adding dramatic effects to evening landscapes including driveways, sidewalks, buildings, decks and patios without the use of electricity.
• Plant Products Co. Ltd. – Booth GF47:
No-Stretch 15-0-20 is a soluble, balanced nutritional fertilizer that works to harden plant structure and prevent leggy growth. When used towards the end of a growth cycle it creates compact, sturdy plant growth with short internodes.
• Turf Care Products, Irrigation and Water Management – Booth #238:
TORO’s new precision series spray nozzles are the most efficient spray nozzle line available to help irrigation professionals manage water use, eliminate run off and reduce water bills.
Entries also are open for the Green for Life Awards. Green industry members can now take part in a short self-assessment survey to see how their environmental practices measure up. The Scorecard is a tool allowing green industry businesses to rate their environmental practices and benchmark future improvements. Entrants are eligible to win a Green for Life Award and $1,000. Winners will be announced Jan.13 at Tailgate Party XIV, sponsored by Turf Revolution.
The Green Forum also is back for its second year at Congress 2010 and is dedicated to the exchange of information and best practices on sustainable green initiatives as a means of planning for a sustainable future in Ontario and throughout Canada. The Green Forum is an opportunity for both corporate and municipal leaders to work together on solutions for the environmental challenges ahead.
