Team Trends - October 2023

Table of Contents

• Seasonal Prep and Maintenance
• Turf & Tree Updates
• Manager Training
• Employee Spotlight
• CARE

Winter Maintenance

It is essential that we keep our trucks in good working condition. Each year during the offseason it is recommended that all vehicles and the equipment mounted on get looked at and maintained to start the following year as fresh as possible. The items below are the things to pay attention to:

• Fluids (Oil, Transmission,
• Radiator, Brake Fluid)
• Air filter (replace or blow out)
• Belt condition
• Tire condition
• Brake condition
• Lights
• Decals
• Body damage needing repair
• Sideboxes fastened tightly
• Interior (clean seats, floor, windshields)
• Dashboard warning lights
• Safety items (Eye wash, spill kit, first aid kit, fire extinguisher)

• No leaks
• Empty and vacuum tank
• Winterize pump and spray hose (includes adding antifreeze to pump and blowing out spray hose completely)
• Oil change on pump and motor
• Air filter on motor (replace or blow out)
• Belt guards in place
• Belt condition
• Motor and pump pulley alignment
• Pressure regulator maintenance (flip or replace puck, lubricate stem)
• Grease both ends of agitator shaft

TURF & TREE UPDATES

Watering your trees and shrubs late in the fall can have several benefits, particularly in regions where winter conditions can be harsh. Here are some advantages:

Late fall watering helps ensure that your trees and shrubs have an adequate water supply going into the winter months. This can be especially important in regions where winter precipitation may be limited, and the ground can become frozen, making it difficult for plants to access moisture.

Properly hydrated trees and shrubs are better equipped to withstand the stresses of winter, including freezing temperatures, strong winds, and fluctuating soil moisture levels. Watering in late fall helps reduce the risk of winter desiccation, which occurs when plants lose moisture through their leaves and cannot replenish it from frozen soil.

Adequate late fall watering promotes healthy root development. Roots continue to grow, albeit at a slower rate, during the fall and early winter. Well-hydrated roots are better able to resist damage from freezing temperatures and frost heaving, which can lift plants out of the ground.

Late fall watering encourages tree and shrub roots to grow deeper into the soil in search of moisture. Deeper roots are more resilient to drought and can access water from lower soil layers, which can be beneficial during dry periods.

When trees and shrubs enter the spring with ample moisture reserves in their root systems, they are more likely to start the growing season vigorously. This can lead to healthier foliage, more robust flowering, and improved overall plant vitality.

Dry, stressed plants are more susceptible to pests and diseases. By providing late fall hydration, you can help your trees and shrubs maintain their vigor and resilience against potential threats.

In some cases, prolonged drought conditions can cause trees and shrubs to enter dormancy prematurely. Late fall watering can help keep them active longer, allowing them to complete their natural growth processes before winter sets in.

However, it's important to water your trees and shrubs correctly in late fall:

• Water deeply but infrequently encourages deep root growth.
• Water during the daytime when temperatures are above freezing allows the soil to absorb moisture before nighttime freezing.
• Avoid watering too close to the first frost date, as wet soil can increase the risk of frost damage.
• Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the root zone and minimize water wastage.

One of the most basic and effective methods to manage leaves is regular raking. Depending on the size of your yard and the amount of leaf cover, you may want to invest in a sturdy rake or even a leaf blower to speed up the process. Regularly raking leaves helps prevent them from forming a dense, suffocating layer on your lawn, which can lead to problems like mold and mildew.

Mulching is a fantastic way to put those leaves to good use. Instead of hauling them away, use a mulching mower to finely chop the leaves into small pieces. This mulch can then be left on your lawn, where it will decompose over time and provide essential nutrients to the soil. Mulching also prevents the need for bagging and disposal, making it an eco-friendly option.

If you have a compost pile or bin, autumn leaves are a valuable addition. They're rich in carbon and can balance the nitrogen-rich materials in your compost, such as kitchen scraps. Just be sure to shred or chop the leaves into smaller pieces to speed up decomposition. Over time, you'll have nutrient-rich compost to enhance your garden and flower beds.

In some cases, you may have an excessive amount of leaves that cannot be effectively managed by mulching or composting alone. Bagging and disposal might be the best solution. Lawn care professionals recommend using biodegradable leaf bags if possible and following local waste disposal regulations.

After the leaves have been managed, consider overseeding and fertilizing your lawn. Fall is an ideal time for this, as it allows new grass to establish itself before winter. The nutrients from the decomposed leaves, along with the added fertilizer, will encourage healthy lawn growth.

Nutrient Absorption

Fall is the perfect time to fertilize your lawn because grass plants are still actively growing beneath the surface. While the top growth may slow down with cooler temperatures, the roots continue to develop and absorb nutrients. By providing your lawn with a balanced fall fertilizer, you're ensuring that it has the necessary nutrients to strengthen its root system. A robust root system is essential for withstanding harsh winter conditions and thriving in the following spring.

Throughout the summer months, lawns often endure stress from foot traffic, extreme temperatures, and pests. Fall fertilizing helps repair the damage and prepares your lawn for winter dormancy. The added nutrients enable the grass to recover from summer stress, encouraging new growth and minimizing bare patches. A thick, healthy lawn also acts as a natural weed deterrent, reducing the chances of weeds taking root.

Fall fertilizing can bolster your lawn's resistance to diseases and pests. When your grass is well-nourished, it has the strength to ward off common lawn issues. Additionally, fall fertilization can enhance your lawn's tolerance to extreme weather conditions, such as drought or heavy snowfall, by fortifying the root system and overall vitality.

Perhaps one of the most satisfying benefits of fall fertilization is the early spring green-up. Lawns that receive a fall feeding tend to wake up earlier and exhibit vibrant green growth as soon as temperatures rise. This gives you a head start on lawn care and enhances your lawn's overall appearance.

Using a well-balanced, in the fall helps minimize nutrient runoff. Unlike spring fertilization, which can contribute to water pollution if not managed properly, fall fertilization is less likely to harm nearby water bodies. By adopting responsible lawn care practices, you're not only benefiting your property but also the environment.

Core aeration and thatch reduction are important lawn care practices that can greatly benefit the health and appearance of your lawn. Here's why they are essential:

Reduced Compaction: Lawns can become compacted over time due to foot traffic, heavy machinery, or even the weight of the soil itself. Compacted soil inhibits water infiltration, leading to runoff and water wastage. Aeration helps alleviate soil compaction, allowing water to penetrate the soil more effectively and reducing the risk of erosion.

Water Conservation: With improved water infiltration, your lawn can better retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering.

Thatch Removal:Thatch is a layer of dead grass, roots, and other organic matter that can accumulate on the soil surface. Excessive thatch can impede water, nutrients, and air from reaching the roots. Core aeration can help break up and remove thatch by bringing some of it to the surface where it can be easily raked away.

Disease Prevention:Thatch can create a favorable environment for pests and diseases to thrive. Removing excess thatch reduces the risk of lawn diseases and promotes a healthier lawn.

Nutrient Absorption: When soil is compacted or covered in thatch, it becomes difficult for grass roots to absorb essential nutrients. A well-aerated lawn allows for better nutrient uptake, leading to greener and more vibrant grass.

Disease Resistance: Aeration and thatch reduction can improve the overall health of your lawn, making it more resistant to pests, diseases, and environmental stressors.

Aesthetic Appeal: A well-maintained lawn with good aeration and reduced thatch looks healthier, with a lush and vibrant appearance.

Extended Lifespan: Regular core aeration and thatch reduction can extend the lifespan of your lawn by promoting strong root development and reducing stress on the grass.

In summary, core aeration and thatch reduction are important lawn care practices that promote healthy soil, strong root systems, and a lush, attractive lawn. These practices help improve water infiltration, nutrient uptake, and overall lawn resilience, leading to a more sustainable and beautiful landscape. It's advisable to consult with a lawn care professional or follow recommended guidelines for your specific grass type and climate when performing these tasks.

Root feeding your trees and shrubs in the fall can provide several benefits for the health and vitality of your plants. Fall root feeding, also known as deep root fertilization, involves applying nutrients directly to the root zone of the plants. Here are some of the advantages of this practice:

• Enhanced Nutrient Uptake: Fall is a critical time for trees and shrubs to absorb nutrients and store them for the winter months. Deep root fertilization ensures that essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, are readily available to the plants' roots. This can help the plants grow stronger and healthier.
• Stress Reduction: Trees and shrubs can experience stress during the summer due to factors like heat, drought, and pest infestations. Fall root feeding can help alleviate this stress and prepare the plants for the challenges of winter. Well-nourished plants are more resilient and better able to withstand winter cold and other stressors.
• Improved Root Development: Deep root fertilization promotes root growth and development. Healthy root systems are essential for water and nutrient absorption, anchoring the plant securely in the soil, and overall plant stability. Stronger root systems can also help prevent soil erosion.
• Disease Resistance: Properly nourished trees and shrubs are more resistant to diseases and pests. Fall root feeding can boost the plants' immune systems and make them less susceptible to common issues that may arise during the winter months.
• Vigorous Spring Growth: When trees and shrubs receive the nutrients they need in the fall, they are more likely to experience vigorous spring growth. This can result in lush foliage, vibrant flowers, and overall improved appearance in the coming growing season.
• Long-Term Health: Deep root fertilization in the fall contributes to the long-term health and longevity of your trees and shrubs. Healthy plants are less likely to suffer from decline, dieback, or premature aging, which can save you time and money on replacements and maintenance.
• Environmental Benefits: Applying fertilizers directly to the root zone reduces the risk of nutrient runoff into nearby water bodies, which can be harmful to aquatic ecosystems. This targeted approach minimizes environmental impacts while maximizing the benefits for your plants.

Manager Training

Please Note that if you either do not yet qualify to enroll or more importantly if you miss the January training you can enroll later in the year and just start in the Summer and finish in the January class.

Save the date! January 16th – 17th, 2023

• A newly promoted manager, only attend once.
• Be 100% compliant with SGU Courses
• Have a signed CA, Confidentiality Agreement on file at Spring Green Corp
• Have a documented Manager/Supervisor Job Description that can be submitted to corp.

Employee Spotlight

Location/Branch: Rochester, MN
Personal Hobbies: Genealogy, Fantasy Football, Bowling
Years at Spring Green: March 7, 1995 - 28 years
Favorie Quote: Make each day count!

Words from the Owners, Kelly and Marty Amundson
On behalf of my husband Marty and myself, we are grateful for Maggie’s ability to respond to change. Upon taking ownership of the Rochester MN territory in 2016, Marty has been working to learn, grow and improve our business’. Maggie’s input, guidance, wisdom, and even challenging suggestions have allowed growth to occur. Once a decision is made, she is driven to problem solve how to carry it out, even if it requires learning another new skill. Her ability to take care of our customers and direct our field service professionals, while also carrying out office duties demonstrates great loyalty! Marty sincerely enjoys learning from Maggie, having higher level conversations, and connecting while they review financial matters. Maggie’s commitment to promoting Spring-Green and providing high quality service are apparent daily. We thank her and are glad to give her the opportunity to share her experiences.

Q & A with Maggie

What do you like about working at Spring Green?
Feels like family, Variety of tasks, Sharing ideas
What are some professional achievements you have made over the years you are proud of?
1999- Spring Green “wall of fame” & Able to work for & learn from 3 different Spring-Green owners.
What are your personal values you live by? How do they align with Spring Green?
Reliable, trustworthy, hard working I think they align well with Spring Green. I do my best to be at work every day and complete whatever tasks I am assigned.
How can FSPs find the most success working at Spring Green?
Doing their best to use their training to provide great customer service with a good attitude.
What is the most memorable story about a customer with Spring Green?
Not really a story, but feels good to see names on our customer list whose lawns I measured & sold when I was telemarketing and performing estimates over 25 years ago.
What has been the most challenging customer you have had and how did you overcome that situation?
Back in the early days a lady whose white tennis shoes turned yellow after we sprayed with pendulum methylate when she walked on the lawn called & needed to be pacified. Ended up visiting her & giving her a gift certificate to buy a new pair of shoes.
What has Spring Green helped you achieve personally?
Gave me confidence to organize & speak at Legion dinners.
Were you always ready to be a manager? What did you have to do to be prepared?
I was always a leader in school activities, President of American Legion Auxiliary Unit in Plainview, Past Plainview city council member
What are the areas of focus every franchise needs to stay vigilant on for success?

• Having the correct pricing to attract customers in their market area.
• Advertise early & often.
• Having enough employees trained & ready to go when the weather allows in the spring.
• Having equipment ready to go in the spring

FOCUS ON CARE THIS FALL

In the world of business, first impressions often steal the spotlight. Even Spring Green has focused heavily over the years on the New Customer Journey and investing resources in crafting compelling marketing campaigns, branding standards, and ensuring that initial customer interactions are positive. However, while the first impression is crucial, the last impression can be just as, if not more, impactful in shaping long-term customer relationships. Or simply put, Retention.

The final interaction a customer has with Spring Green can influence their overall perception of the company, you as their lawn guy, and how much we CARE about them instead of them being a number. A positive last impression can reinforce the positive experiences they've had throughout their journey with Spring Green. Whether it's the conclusion of their services, a final kind gesture at their property, a support call, or a simple “thank you for being a customer”. If you make sure this final touchpoint is genuine, thoughtful, and delightful is key.

Building Customer Loyalty Customers who have had a positive last interaction are more likely to become loyal patrons. This loyalty can extend beyond a single transaction and result in renewing, referrals, and long-term relationships. It's not just about delivering a perfect lawn service; it's about leaving a memorable impression that keeps customers coming back for more, because of you.

Mitigating Negative Experiences Sometimes, despite your best efforts, customers may encounter issues or challenges throughout the year. The last impression offers an opportunity to rectify these situations. By addressing concerns effectively and ensuring a satisfactory resolution, you can turn a potentially negative experience into a positive one. This can be a difference maker in retaining customers who might otherwise have cancelled their account.

Word-of-Mouth and Reputation In today's digital age, word-of-mouth spreads faster than ever before. A negative last impression can lead to dissatisfied customers sharing their experiences on social media, review sites, and with friends and family. Conversely, a positive last impression can turn customers into brand advocates who share their positive experiences, strengthening your online reputation and attracting new customers.

Encouraging Feedback and Improvement The final interaction is also an excellent opportunity to gather feedback from customers. Spring Green surveys all customers at the end of the year. We show that we value their input and are committed to continuous improvement. This can enhance the customer experience but if you don’t acknowledge that feedback or respond could result in another negative lasting impression.

Personalization and Human Connection A memorable last impression often involves a personal touch. By making customers feel valued and appreciated during their final interaction, you can create a stronger emotional connection. Whether it's a handwritten thank-you note, a follow-up email, or a special offer, these personalized gestures can leave a lasting positive impression.

While first impressions are undeniably important, the last impression should not be underestimated. It has the power to shape customer relationships, influence loyalty, and impact your brand's reputation. The goal is to always deliver exceptional experiences at every stage of the customer journey, but sometimes we aren’t perfect. Mother nature drives results on the lawn out of our control but if you can ensure that their final interactions are memorable it will leave customers remembering why they value our services, why they trust us. In a world where customer relationships are at the heart of business success, try to remember that as we get into the final moments of the year.

Making All the Difference

As we close out another edition of our Team Trends newsletter for the year, Jeff and I want to take a moment to celebrate the true heartbeat of our organization – our dedicated frontline staff. You are the ones who make all the difference, day in and day out.

In your commitment, we find inspiration. Through your perseverance, we see the embodiment of our core values, our CARE standards. All of you in our markets across the country ensure our mission becomes a reality, touching lives, and creating enriched living spaces our customers can enjoy.

Thank you for your dedication, your passion, and your spirit. You are the reason we succeed, and we couldn't be more proud to have you as part of our system, our team, our extended family. We will continue to make improvements to this article and how it will be deployed. We know that time is the most important commodity in our business, and we are committed to being more efficient.

Until the next edition, stay safe, stay strong, and CARE for each other. It takes a village.
Thank you,

David Dawson