If a headline reads: “New home sales down 3%,” it sounds definitive. It isn’t. Dig even a little deeper, and a different picture emerges. In many markets, starter and lower-priced homes are indeed struggling. Interest-sensitive, price-sensitive buyers are on the sidelines. Some builders are laying off staff and slashing budgets, including landscape allowances. But in
One of the defining moments in our industry’s history came in 1998, during an unprecedented wave of consolidations. I was among several executives whose companies were entertaining options and was interviewed by this magazine for an exclusive report. When I coach business leaders, we talk about moments that define us — the ones that change
In the green industry, growth typically means new clients, bigger contracts, and additional service lines. But growth alone doesn’t guarantee success. Profit starts with process. The difference between companies that thrive and those that scramble is operational efficiency — the discipline of managing labor, job costs, pricing, and information with precision. Efficiency doesn’t just happen.
In endurance racing, success doesn’t go to the one who sprints hardest at the start. It goes to the one who prepares with the discipline to handle every twist in the course. You train for terrain changes, gear failure, weather shifts or anything else that might take you out of the race. Business is no
By the fifth year, research suggests that nearly half of new businesses fail. By Year 10, only about 30% remain. While these numbers shift with changing market conditions, the lesson is clear: Understanding why businesses stumble is the first step to ensuring yours doesn’t. Usually, the problem seasonal companies in the landscaping industry struggle with
Most landscape business owners think scaling means hiring more salespeople, spending more on marketing or chasing ever-bigger jobs. But in my work with companies across the U.S., including many in the Top 100 landscape companies, I’ve found that real, sustainable growth stems from doing a few things better. There’s more untapped revenue and margin in
As a landscaping consultant, I’ve worked with many companies that charge into the spring rush with high hopes, packed schedules, and team members eager to put winter behind them. The first six months of the year can feel overwhelming. Winter sometimes overstays its welcome, and then the team navigates the 100 days of hell like
When “The Fifth Discipline” was published in 1990, it didn’t take me long to know that Peter Senge’s principles would have lasting impact. The book’s premise is based on the five disciplines of a learning organization. Systems thinking is number five, an integration of the other four, and a framework for problem solving that I
Benchmarking season is here! Annually, a variety of industry partners roll out their annual reports packed with critical insights into the latest business trends, the future industry outlook and key observations that help set clear expectations for the road ahead. For over 15 years, Wilson 360 has been leading our own annual benchmarking charge, comprised
From highlighting career growth to creating a healthy culture, Sheila Matthews explains why it’s a struggle to answer the question, “How do I hire lawn care employees?” Over 60% of Gen Z actively engage in outdoor sports, and a growing number are considering hands-on trades over traditional desk jobs. So why is the landscaping industry
