April 2006


ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL!

~Michael Lackey

Seems like a simple enough decision. Most people only consider the color or the looks of a planter or pot when making a purchase. They pick out a great design or a perfect color that will match everything. This can be a costly mistake because the type of planter can have a direct effect on how well a plant will grow and survive. Looks and color are important, but when selecting planters or pots there are many other factors to consider.

Watering. Although plants need water, the planter or pot you choose can either drain or retain water. Clay pots will have a tendency to dry out much quicker than a resin or foam pot, which actually holds moisture in. Also, consider who will be watering them and how often. It is best to set up a schedule tailored to the plant and planter requirements.

Mobility. Will the planters need to be moved around? How often? Planters that are made out of a breakable material such as clay or plaster are not good to move around. Likewise, heavy planters may not be practical if they are to be moved often. Also, consider cleaning and maintenance of the area where the pots will be located; some planters will need to be moved more often for this.

Exposure. As with all materials, some planters and pots are affected more by weather conditions than others. Evaluate the area that the planters will be placed in relation to sun, rain and wind. Use containers that will stand up to conditions and give years of service without breaking or fading.

Plant Selection. This is one of the most important elements when selecting planters. If a plant likes it hot and dry a clay planter in the sun may be good, but if a plant likes it wet and cool a resin-type planter in the shade would work best. Also, consider the size of the planter versus the size of the plant material. As a good general rule, use a planter twice the size of the root ball to allow for root development and growth.

If you're just not sure where to start, contact an OLM consultant - we'll be happy to help!

April hath put a spirit of youth in everything.
~ William Shakespeare

Thank You!

No matter if your company, HOA or CDD has been a client since 1987 or just last week, OLM is proud of its relationship with each and every one of the companies we work with. Here is a sample of OLM's clients and the year we began working together:

  • Johnson & Johnson (NJ) - since 1996 (and in Puerto Rico since 2002!)
  • Sandestin Resorts and S.O.A. (FL) - since 1996
  • Gaylord Palms Resort (FL) - since 2003
  • Glen Abbey H.O.A. (GA) - since 1997
  • LakePointe Corporate Center (NC) - since 1999
  • Plaza las Americas (PR) - since 2001
  • RREEF (IL) - since 2005

If you would like to see your company and/or property listed in future issues of The Grapevine, just send a note to newsletter@olminc.com. Thank you to all of OLM's clients - we appreciate you!

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SHOULD I HIRE A GARDENER OR A LANDSCAPER?
~Ed Jensen

Often we at OLM are asked, "Why doesn't my landscaper know how to garden?" Think of a landscaper as a general practitioner who strives to serve as many people as possible, while a gardener is trained in more horticultural "puttering" type activities and is not concerned with production requirements. Just like you get an annual physical to make sure everything is ok, you would only go see a specialist when your primary doctor advises you to do so.

The decision also hinges on cost. To keep your landscape service affordable and in line with your budget, the landscape service industry has boiled down what they do to the basic services. For you to be able to afford an individual who can cater to each plant's specific requirements, your budget would have to see a significant increase or your property(s) would have to be large enough to afford this luxury.

The reality is that general landscape practices, assuming you have good standards and specifications, will protect your landscape in virtually all instances. 95% of the work you see is repetitive, cyclical labor and technical requirements that can be scheduled and programmed.

OLM recommends utilizing landscape companies that have knowledgeable horticulturists who are backed up by support services that can proactively take care of specific plant issues. For the remaining 5%, a trained and qualified individual backed up by a good organization can address your unique issues. Do not overpay for a gardening service that in the long run ends up being an expensive day porter.

Call OLM and we can help you determine whether you need a gardener or landscaper.

The first day of spring is one thing, and the first spring day is another. The difference between them is sometimes as great as a month.
~ Henry Van Dyke, Fisherman's Luck, 1899

Need help? Have questions? Whether it concerns home or at work, contact OLM by phone, e-mail or fax and we will be glad to assist!

Contact us:

OLM, Inc.
975 Cobb Place Blvd.
Suite 304
Kennesaw, GA 30144

Call us: (770) 420-0900

E-mail: newsletter@olminc.com
Online: www.olminc.com