Over 20 years, thousands of green industry professionals have donated their time and expertise delivering season-long services that allow families to focus on staying connected while a loved one serves. 

GreenCare for Troops celebrates 20 years in 2026 of mobilizing green industry professionals to provide free lawn, landscape and snow removal services to military families nationwide.

As part of this milestone year, the organization is expanding program eligibility to include disabled veterans in select states – a meaningful next step in extending support to those who have served. Additionally, irrigation maintenance and seasonal irrigation services are new services available to families through the registration process.

Launched in 2006, GreenCare for Troops was built on a clear and powerful mission: remove one burden from military families during deployment while ensuring the healthy maintenance of their home landscapes. What began as a simple act of service has grown into a national volunteer movement that preserves safe, well-maintained green spaces and provides stability during times of uncertainty.

Over 20 years, thousands of green industry professionals have donated their time and expertise delivering season-long services that allow families to focus on staying connected while a loved one serves. For recipients, the program represents more than maintained lawns or cleared driveways. It represents reliability, dignity and community support.

“For 20 years, GreenCare for Troops has been rooted in the power of healthy, well-maintained green spaces,” said Cindy Code, executive director of Project EverGreen. “Cared-for lawns and landscapes do more than enhance curb appeal. They create cooler, healthier outdoor environments and a sense of stability at home. When volunteers step in during deployment, they’re not just mowing grass; they’re sustaining living green spaces that support families and strengthen communities.”

20 years serving those who serve

• $20 million in donated services
• 15,000 professional volunteers
• 20,000 military families served
• All 50 states reached

The program’s success is rooted in its professional volunteer model, which matches military families with local lawn, landscape and snow removal providers who commit to reliable service throughout the duration of a deployment often six months to a year or longer. These consistent relationships ensure properties remain safe, attractive and properly maintained while families navigate the challenges of service.

Expansion to disabled veterans

Beginning March 2026, GreenCare for Troops will offer services to disabled veterans in Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas – states where strong volunteer capacity supports responsible program growth.

Eligible veterans may receive up to one year of donated service when a volunteer is available in their area, with the opportunity to reapply annually based on need and capacity. Additional states may be added as volunteer participation expands. This strategic rollout allows Project EverGreen to grow thoughtfully while maintaining the reliability and professionalism that define the program.

Irrigation services added to service lineup

GreenCare for Troops now offers irrigation maintenance and seasonal services such as system winterization. Like all program support, these services are provided by volunteers and are matched with families based on the availability and expertise of participating volunteers in each community.

A program that benefits communities and businesses

In addition to supporting military families and disabled veterans, GreenCare for Troops strengthens participating companies. Volunteers consistently report improved employee pride, stronger team culture and deeper community engagement.

“GreenCare for Troops allows our team to use the skills we already have to make a real difference,” said one longtime volunteer. “It reflects the kind of company we want to be.”

With ongoing deployments and continued demand for support, Project EverGreen is actively seeking new volunteers to sustain and expand services – including disabled veterans in participating states.

Volunteer of the Year Awards launch in June

To commemorate its 20th anniversary, Project EverGreen will introduce a Volunteer of the Year Awards program recognizing three exceptional volunteers who have demonstrated consistent service, compassion and long-term commitment. Nominated directly by the families they serve, the awards will highlight authentic stories of impact and dedication. Nominations will open June 1, 2026

New GreenCare for Troops website

Project EverGreen has also launched a redesigned GreenCare for Troops home page, making it easier for military families, disabled veterans and volunteers to access information quickly and confidently. Clear eligibility guidelines, streamlined registration, updated FAQs and improved navigation ensure a user-friendly experience that reflects the professionalism and reliability at the heart of the program.

Join the mission – become a volunteer today!

To learn more, register as a volunteer or review eligibility requirements, visit:
https://projectevergreen.org/greencare-for-troops/

Thank you to our generous supporters

The Title Sponsor of the GreenCare for Troops program is Nufarm, while BOSS Snowplow proudly sponsors SnowCare for Troops.

Our Platinum Partners include Toro, SiteOne Landscape Supply and Heritage Landscape Supply.

The Silver Partner is Arborjet/Ecologel and our Affiliate Partners include the Connecticut Grounds Keepers Association and the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association.

GreenCare for Troops is proudly endorsed by the National Association of Landscape Professionals.

Join us today and be part of something bigger.

The Orlando event featured a celebration of the association’s Centennial.

The GCSAA Conference and Trade Show celebrated the association’s 100 years of keeping the game on course with a successful return to Orlando from February 2-5. Attendance grew for the fourth year in a row, with 12,824 attendees (up 15% over 2025). A record-breaking 8,074 seminar seats were filled, exceeding the prior record set in 2008. In addition to education for superintendents, the event also included specialized education for assistant superintendents and equipment managers. 

The trade show floor at the Orange County Convention Center featured 523 exhibitors (vs. 464 in 2025) and 178,600 square feet of exhibit space, an increase of 16% over 2025. The total trade show floor was 428,000 square feet and also included areas for education, GCSAA Services, GCSAA Store and the Centennial Experience, an exhibit that took attendees through 100 years of GCSAA history. GCSAA will turn 100 on September 13.

“As we kick off our Centennial year, it meant a great deal to see our members show up in such strong numbers to learn, connect and grow.” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “Our role is to serve them by providing education, resources and opportunities that help them strengthen their careers and facilities, and this week reflected that shared commitment to the future of the profession.”

The conference was preceded by the GCSAA Golf Championships presented by Toro from January 31 to February 1. More than 600 golfers competed in flighted competitions across five Orlando-area golf courses. Defending champion Mike Gianopoulos, CGCS, superintendent at Kent Country Club in Grand Rapids, Michigan, won the 2026 GCSAA National Championship. 

On Monday, the Opening Session, presented in partnership with Syngenta, saw brothers Bob Alonzi, CGCS, a 55-year GCSAA member, and Joe Alonzi, CGCS, a 50-year GCSAA member, honored with the Col. John Morley Award. Jim Pavonetti, CGCS, superintendent at Fairview Country Club in Greenwich, Connecticut, was presented with the President’s Award for Environmental Stewardship, while researcher and educator Bert McCarty, Ph.D., professor emeritus at Clemson University, won the Outstanding Contribution Award. GCSAA also announced a $1-million donation to the GCSAA Foundation from the Kendrick B. Melrose Family Foundation.  The session concluded with an exclusive panel discussion focused on the future of the game featuring GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans, PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan and USGA CEO Mike Whan, which was moderated by Golf Digest Editor-in-Chief Jerry Tarde.

On Tuesday, more than 4,000 GCSAA members and industry friends came together for the GCSAA Centennial Celebration at ICON Park. The sold-out gathering provided an evening of connection and celebration to reflect on GCSAA’s past, present and future.

Wednesday featured the 2026 GCSAA Collegiate Turf Bowl, presented in partnership with John Deere. Penn State University was the 2026 champion, successfully defending its title from 2025. The Turf Bowl competition included 288 students on 79 teams from 33 universities across North America.

Also on Wednesday, students from high schools across the Sunshine State had the opportunity to compete in the Florida Turfgrass Science Invitational, an FFA-endorsed event designed to stimulate student interest and to promote the turfgrass industry as a career choice. South Fork High School in Stuart, Florida, won the competition. 

The week wound down with Thursday’s Closing Session, presented in partnership with John Deere. Highlights of the Send-Off Celebration included the presentation of the Emerging Leader Award to Steven Spatafore, director of agronomy at Los Altos (California) Golf and Country Club, and the Edwin Budding Award to John Patterson, CTEM, the equipment director at Atlanta Athletic Club in Johns Creek, Georgia. The session concluded with a panel discussion focused on developing tomorrow’s golf course management leaders, composed of Evans; Manny Gan, John Deere global director of golf and sports turf; and Mara Downing, John Deere vice president, corporate communications and brand management. The 2026 CTS concluded with the Closing Event featuring motivational speaker and celebrity hypnotist Ricky Kalmon. 

The GCSAA Conference and Trade Show is produced by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) along with its presenting partners the Golf Course Builders Association of America (GCBAA), United States Golf Association (USGA) and the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA).

The 2027 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show will head to New Orleans, Louisiana, January 15-21, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and will feature the conclusion of GCSAA’s Centennial observation. 

About GCSAA

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kansas, the association provides education, information and representation to 21,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and improve communities through enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter. Visit our industry-leading magazine at GCMonline.com.

The GCSAA Foundation is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to secure funding and support to strengthen advocacy, education and research that advances the work of golf course management professionals. Visit the Foundation at www.gcsaa.org/foundation.

Toro has assisted the GCSAA Foundation in raising nearly $5 million for turfgrass research.

The GCSAA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), has received another $50,000 grant from The Toro Company Foundation for continued support of the Rounds 4 Research (R4R) program in 2026. With this contribution, The Toro Company has donated $700,000 to the program over the past 14 years.

Rounds 4 Research is designed to address a critical shortage in turfgrass research funding by auctioning donated rounds of golf online. The program allows GCSAA chapters and turfgrass foundations to participate as fundraising partners and direct the proceeds from auctioned rounds to specific projects that will have the most significant impact in their local areas.

Since its launch in 2012, Rounds 4 Research has raised nearly $5 million. The program is administered by the GCSAA Foundation and presented in partnership with The Toro Company. The 2026 R4R auction will be held April 20-26.

“The Rounds 4 Research auction broke records yet again in 2025, and Toro’s steadfast generosity has played a key role in the program’s continued success,” said GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans. “Toro’s unwavering support has undoubtedly ensured that the R4R program remains successful in sustaining the game of golf and advancing research that enhances the industry.”

The Toro Company is a longtime partner of the GCSAA Foundation, donating nearly $2.8 million since 1987 to help support scientific research, education and scholarships for future turfgrass professionals. As the exclusive presenting partner of Rounds 4 Research, The Toro Company is a Victory Club member of the GCSAA Foundation’s cumulative giving program and a GCSAA Platinum Partner.

“The Toro Company Foundation is proud to support Rounds for Research because it directly advances the science and education needed to steward our natural resources responsibly,” said Marnie K. Wells, president, The Toro Company Foundation. “This initiative reflects our commitment to sustainability by supporting research and scholarships that equip future turfgrass professionals to manage land, water and inputs thoughtfully while strengthening the long-term health of the golf industry.”

About Toro

With roots dating back to 1914, Toro is a leading worldwide provider of innovative solutions for the outdoor environment including turf and landscape maintenance, snow management, rental and construction equipment and irrigation solutions. Through a strong network of distributors, dealers, retailers and rental stores in more than 125 countries, Toro helps customers care for golf courses, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties, construction sites and agricultural operations. More at: www.toro.com.

About GCSAA

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kansas, the association provides education, information and representation to 20,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and improve communities through the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org or visit our industry-leading magazine at GCMonline.com.

The GCSAA Foundation is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to secure funding and support to strengthen advocacy, education and research that advances the work of golf course management professionals. Visit the Foundation at www.gcsaa.org/foundation.

By Jenny Yu.  

Dive into two products by The Toro Company that make irrigation intuitive and easy. 

At the 2025 Irrigation Show & Education Week put on by the Irrigation Association (IA), Karol Weyman spoke with Matt Hall, product marketing manager for The Toro Company’s residential-commercial controllers and sensors, about two of the division’s newest products.  

The first product Matt introduced is Toro’s new RXC controller, designed for residential use. “The controller has basic programming. It’s very intuitive with six programs — a few more programs than some of the competition,” Matt shared. “It’s good, day-in and day-out. If you need it to turn on irrigation and turn off irrigation, it's going to do a fantastic job of doing so.” 

What really sets this product apart, though, is when it is paired with Toro’s new Oasis software platform, available through the app and a contractor website. “A contractor will be able to create their organization, create client profiles that they manage and have access from anywhere to any one of those clients at any time,” Matt explained. “We spent a lot of time working on the setup and the handoff. Those are the two biggest places where contractors and users get stuck; this way, they're able to pick how they want their dashboard to look, quickly see a list of their clients and filter through that.”   

One of the unique tools the controller and software duo features is smart irrigation. “It has internet-based weather for smart irrigation. You'll get daily weather data downloaded from the cloud that'll make a daily runtime adjustment to the irrigation based on the weather in your area,” Matt said. “So, you're going to save water when you don't need it and get the water you need to keep the landscape healthy.”  

Tools like smart irrigation and a fully customizable dashboard took much research, development and testing, creating products that Toro is proud to provide. “We really have worked hard to catch the pain points for contractors and homeowners,” Matt expressed. 

Watch the interview to see Toro’s new product innovations!

By Jenny Yu.  

Education, networking and innovation take center stage at the golf industry’s premier annual event. 

The GCSAA Conference and Trade Show 2026 is set to bring golf course management professionals together February 2–5 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Hosted by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), this year’s event celebrates the association’s centennial and offers a range of education, networking and technology showcases for industry leaders, turf managers and facility owners. 

Attendees can take part in seminars, interactive facility tours and Power Hours designed to enhance skills, share best practices and explore the latest trends in golf course and grounds management. The conference opens with the GCSAA Golf Championships presented by The Toro Company, running January 31 through February 2 on some of Orlando’s premier courses, followed by receptions and the official GCSAA Centennial Celebration at ICON Park. 

The trade show floor will operate February 4 and 5 and provide a marketplace of innovations from hundreds of exhibitors representing equipment, irrigation and turf solutions, sustainable practices and maintenance systems. In addition to cutting-edge products and technologies, the Centennial Experience offers a walk through 100 years of GCSAA history and the evolution of golf course management. 

Professional development is a core focus of the event, with leadership programs, workshops and educational sessions aimed at helping attendees expand their expertise and strengthen their roles in shaping the future of golf course management. Networking opportunities abound, from early-morning health runs to closing events featuring industry speakers and entertainment. 

Whether you are looking to stay on top of turf technology, build partnerships or celebrate a milestone year for GCSAA, this event promises to deliver valuable insights and professional growth for all attendees.  

Learn more and register to secure your spot for this centennial celebration!

The powerful GrandStand® MULTI FORCE® EVO and autonomous PROLINE™ AMI help crews maximize productivity.

Toro is empowering landscape crews to take on more with the introduction of the redesigned GrandStand® MULTI FORCE® EVO and autonomous PROLINE™ AMI at Equip Expo, October 21-24, in Louisville, Kentucky. Both solutions deliver serious results and give pros the power to maximize productivity, streamline workloads and increase ROI. Built on two proven platforms, these updated machines offer a premium boost in performance backed by the reliability Toro customers have come to expect.

GrandStand MULTI FORCE EVO

When customers speak, Toro listens. The latest MULTI FORCE EVO gets a powerful boost in strength thanks to the fierce Kawasaki EVO 34.5 HP engine. Plus, the included service stand attachment makes maintenance fast and easy, giving you more time on the job.

“When you think of what it means to ‘do-it-all’, the MULTI FORCE EVO checks every box,” said Jackson Gray, product marketing associate at Toro. “Whether you’re dealing with tall grass, mounds of leaves or a foot of snow, the MULTI FORCE EVO has the power to take on any job in any season.”

The MULTI FORCE EVO includes the same rugged TURBO FORCE® cutting deck and seasonal versatility that operators have come to love. With a wide variety of attachments available, the machine helps landscape contractors maximize efficiency and revenue opportunities year-round, no matter the season.

PROLINE AMI

When the to-do list feels like too much to tackle, the autonomous PROLINE AMI acts as extra crew. Toro’s latest autonomous mower is guided by GNSS+RTK, a high-precision positioning technology that combines satellite navigation with real-time corrections for consistent results with less overlap.

Contractors can operate confidently with continuous system monitoring, including audio and visual alerts, remote stop and ISO-compliant radar to aid in collision avoidance. Monitor machine status and access controls on the bright, full-color LED screen or through the mobile app.

The new technology is built on the trusted PROLINE platform, which runs on the 26.5 HP Kohler® Command PRO EFI engine for the extra muscle needed to tear through demanding conditions.

“The combination of intelligence, power and convenience in the autonomous PROLINE AMI will be a huge boost for crews who never have enough time in the day,” Gray says. “The ability to complete multiple tasks at once will help save time, improve efficiency and bring in extra revenue.”

Visit toro.com for more information.

About Toro

With roots dating back to 1914, Toro is a leading worldwide provider of innovative solutions for the outdoor environment including turf and landscape maintenance, snow management, rental and construction equipment, and irrigation solutions. Through a strong network of distributors, dealers, retailers and rental stores in more than 125 countries, Toro helps customers care for golf courses, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties, construction sites and agricultural operations. More at: www.toro.com.

By Emma Peterson. 

Project EverGreen makes sure that servicemen and women come home to welcoming, well-cared for homes.  

Meet Project EverGreen, a national non-profit whose mission is to connect people with healthy outdoor spaces. They run a variety of different programs and initiatives that work towards this goal with the help of volunteers and sponsor companies, such as Heritage and The Toro Company.  

A great example of their work is their GreenCare for Troops and SnowCare for Troops programs. These provide complimentary lawncare, landscaping and snow removal for the families of deployed military personnel. The importance of even this small gesture of kindness and assistance can make a world of difference. As they put it,  

Every lawn tells a story. Some whisper weekend barbecues, kids’ games, dogs racing after tennis balls. Others feel quieter, waiting for noise and activity to return. For thousands of military families, that joy pauses when a loved one is deployed. The household routine shifts. The emotional weight grows. Even the yard, once a simple comfort, becomes another source of stress...By taking care of that for them, we create a powerful way to honor those who serve and to help their families flourish. 

This program is available to active duty, deployed service members in all branches of the military, including guard and reserve forces. The managed space must be less than one acre, and it must be the residence of the active-duty member. The program operates in all 50 states, and there is no charge to the servicemember or their family for services provided through the program.  

If you are interested in volunteering or know someone who this program could help, visit www.projectevergreen.org for more information. 

From autonomous mowers to versatile compact utility loaders, Toro will showcase a powerful lineup of landscape innovations designed to tackle today’s toughest challenges.

Since 1914, The Toro Company has operated with a simple goal — to help our customers enrich the beauty, productivity and sustainability of the land. At this year’s Equip Expo, October 21-24, in Louisville, Kentucky, we will honor more than a century’s worth of innovation and highlight the equipment that helps landscape contractors work faster, easier and smarter than ever before.

“For more than 100 years, Toro has focused on building quality relationships with customers,” said Edric Funk, president and chief operating officer at The Toro Company. “This tradition not only fosters trust but sparks innovative ideas across all our businesses and teams. We’re proud to honor and continue that legacy at Equip Expo.”

Products from nearly every Toro division will be on site to present a complete overview of the company’s diverse offerings. Visit us at booths 7148 and 7600D for an up-close look at the powerful machines that define Toro’s legacy and help landscape pros conquer modern day challenges.

Equipment to boost efficiency and ROI

No matter the time of year, crews are expected to do more with less — and they need equipment that rises to the occasion.

The new GrandStand ® MULTI FORCE® EVO is powered by a rugged Kawasaki EVO 34.5 HP engine and can be equipped with various attachments for year-round efficiency and revenue. For hands-free precision, the new Autonomous PROLINE™ AMI uses intelligent technology to deliver consistent results, freeing up operators for other tasks. Similarly, the TurfMaster® HDX features a new caster front end on its 30" deck, giving operators the mobility to work in tight spaces and navigate diverse properties with ease.

Toro’s lineup of Dingo® compact utility loaders give landscape contractors the power and versatility to dig, haul, trench, grade, auger and more. Whether it’s the nimble TX 525, the high-torque TX 1000 TURBO or the powerful TXL 2000, there’s a model to meet every crew and jobsite need. Paired with the Ultra Buggy 2500 — designed for fast, efficient material transport — landscape contractors can overcome the toughest jobsite demands.

Customize the Workman® UTX to meet the exact needs of each operation. This versatile 4-wheel drive utility vehicle is made for tough work, featuring commercial-grade components and the highest payload in its class.

Above all, customer satisfaction is always a priority, and the Eagle™ Plus irrigation controller delivers with superior efficiency and water savings. An enhanced and intuitive internet-connected interface equips the user with real-time irrigation control from anywhere. Plus, the Eagle Plus controller comes in a variety of configurations, including multiple enclosure options.

Battery-powered solutions

Toro’s expanding lineup of battery-powered equipment provides electric versatility to meet challenges like noise and emission restrictions.

The Toro eDingo® and electric Ultra Buggy® family offers compact, clean and quiet solutions for high-output tasks. The eDingo 500 and eDingo TX 750 are built to navigate tight spaces while powering through hauling and loading jobs. For material transport, the electric Ultra Buggy 2500-TS offers precise placement with a 180-degree swiveling tub, while the 2500-THL adds high-lift capability — easily clearing a 30-yard dumpster for fast, efficient debris removal.

Toro’s battery solutions also extend to grounds care with the Groundsmaster® e3300. Built onthe same rugged chassis and commercial-grade deck as its diesel-powered predecessor, it can be equipped with up to 17 HyperCell™ batteries for all-day power and productivity in the most demanding conditions.

“Our goal is simple: make it easier for customers to deliver their best work,” said Funk. “As your business grows and changes, Toro evolves with you. Whether you’re dealing with labor challenges, tight timelines or jobs that require more power, you can count on Toro tools and resources to get it done.”

To learn more about Toro’s latest innovations and explore how our integrated solutions can help you and your crew work more efficiently and productively, visit us at toro.com.

About Toro

With roots dating back to 1914, Toro is a leading worldwide provider of innovative solutions for the outdoor environment including turf and landscape maintenance, snow management, rental and construction equipment, and irrigation solutions. Through a strong network of distributors, dealers, retailers and rental stores in more than 125 countries, Toro helps customers care for golf courses, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties, construction sites and agricultural operations. More at: www.toro.com.

From dull blades to neglected oil changes, overlooked mower maintenance tasks can result in costly repairs and unexpected downtime for homeowners. To help prevent these setbacks, Toro established National Lawn Mower Maintenance Week occurring annually March 1-7.

"It's not uncommon for a good quality lawn mower to last decades, and potentially into the next generation, if properly maintained and operated," says Wes Bollingmo, channel and product support manager at Toro. "Without proper maintenance and care, some mowers are hard-pressed to last a full season. This week is a call to action - a reminder that skipping basic maintenance can leave you facing costly repairs or even a total breakdown when you need your mower most."

By committing a small amount of time next month to focus on maintenance, homeowners can ensure they are fully prepared for the mowing season ahead.

Mower maintenance tasks

While gas and battery-powered mowers have different maintenance requirements, these tips are universally applicable to all types of mowers:

• Inspect screws, bolts and other components. Tighten or replace them if needed.
• Remove battery or disconnect spark plug. Then, while using protective gloves, remove stuck-on grass and debris from the underside of the mower. When tipping the mower on its side, ensure the air filter is facing up and the oil dipstick is facing down. This will prevent oil from getting into the air filter area.
• Check the mower blades for sharpness and sharpen or replace them if needed. Sharpening is recommended for every 25 hours of operation, while replacement is only necessary if the blades are nicked or broken.

"When mower blades have not been properly maintained, they can actually damage grass, leaving it to brown quickly and harm the plant itself. Dull and damaged cutting blades tend to tear the grass blade versus cut it. Blade tears stress the grass, forcing it to expend energy repairing itself," explains Bollingmo.

Gas-powered mower maintenance

• Inspect the spark plugs to ensure the lead-in connector is clean, in good condition and attached securely to the top of the plug.
• Empty the fuel tank if fuel is left over from last season. Then, fill it with fresh fuel. It's best to use fuel that's less than 30 days old.
• Replace the oil and air filter. Doing so keeps the engine in top shape, sparing users from an oil-related repair later.
• Test the recoil system. It should be retracting properly and free of any fraying. If there is damage to the rope, consider replacing it.

Battery-powered mower maintenance

• Test the battery by charging it for 24 hours (or until the battery indicates full charge), then start up the mower.

"While many maintenance tasks can be easily tackled at home, don't hesitate to reach out to your local dealer for expert assistance," urges Bollingmo. "Whether it's guidance on specific maintenance needs or sourcing the right parts, dealers are an invaluable resource to ensure your equipment stays in peak condition for the season ahead - and those to come."

For more resources to gear up for the spring season, visit Toro's blog, yardcare.com, and join the conversation on social media by using #LawnMowerMaintenanceWeek.

About Toro

With roots dating back to 1914, Toro is a leading worldwide provider of innovative solutions for the outdoor environment including turf and landscape maintenance, snow management, rental and construction equipment and irrigation solutions. Through a strong network of distributors, dealers, retailers and rental stores in more than 125 countries, Toro helps customers care for golf courses, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties, construction sites and agricultural operations. More at: www.toro.com.

By Emma Peterson. 

Explore 20 landscaping tools that are shear genius! 

Having the right tools for the job can separate you from your competitors by leveling up your efficiency and professionalism. For example, power tools make it easier for your team to work faster, whether they’re trimming hedges or clearing debris after a storm. But not every tool is built the same!  

It’s important to balance wanting to make an economical decision with getting quality products. As Hilary Walters explains in a Jobber article, “Invest in high-end tools with stronger motors, longer battery life and commercial-grade durability for frequent use. Quality brands with good warranties can save you money in the long run, since you may not have to pay for as many repairs or replacements.” 

So, what types of tools should you look into for your landscaping list? It really depends on what type of projects you’ll be tackling. Here’s 20 great options to help you figure out what your team needs! 

1 – Mower 

It’s important to equip your team with the right mower for the job. If you do a lot of work with clients that have multi-acre properties, it can be worth it to invest in a riding mower. For smaller properties, a gas or electric mower will often do the job. Toro carries a variety of mowers, including riding, walking and robotic, that can help you save time on the job! 

2 – Leaf blower 

Keeping the worksite clean is crucial to having happy customers, however it can be a bit of challenge when you are cutting grass, clearing brush and other landscaping activities that create debris. That’s why a leaf blower is a great upgrade from a rake or broom. Something like Flex-Force 60V Max Leaf Blowers from Toro is especially a good option because it is battery-powered, making it easy to maneuver, without sacrificing power (the Flex-Force has “up to 605 CFM of air volume and up to 157 MPH air speed”). 

3 – Pole saw/pruner 

A pole saw is exactly what it sounds like, a pole with a saw attached to the end of it. This tool is perfect for cutting those hard-to-reach branches without having to climb any trees or ladders.  

In a similar vein, a pole pruner, like what Seymour Midwest carries, is another option for cutting high branches. The difference is that a pole pruner is more lightweight than a pole saw. This means that a pole pruner is better for detail work, while a pole saw is better for larger branches. 

4 – Weed whacker 

Toro also offers some high-quality weed whackers, which are also called string trimmers. These are a great option for landscapers because they can help them tame spaces that have grown unruly and enable them to create clean, aesthetic edges along paths, sidewalks, driveways and more.  

5 – Shovel 

It seems basic, but every landscaper needs a trusted shovel or two. Choosing what type of shovel you want depends on how you use it. We recommend having a flat-bladed spade as it will be the best for edging, cutting and planting along with having a round or pointed-blade shovel for your digger purposes. In addition to those, there are a variety of other shovel types to explore at T Christy Enterprises! 

And if you are offering services in the winter, it’s time to invest in a good quality snow shovel, such as Seymour Midwest’s! They also offer a variety of scrapers and other snow tools that might be useful for wintertime projects. 

6 – Hedge trimmer 

These are especially helpful if you are working in an area with a lot of foliage – we're talking bushes, small trees and other light plant growth. With a hedge trimmer you will be able to make sure that greenery stays tidy and attractive easily. Looking for a hedge trimmer? Get started on Toro’s website! 

7 – Pruning shears 

A lot of your clients probably have these as well, but it never hurts to have a pair of professional pruning shears, such as those from Seymour Midwest, on hand. They are a versatile pair of handheld plant scissors that help you cut and trim small branches. You can also get pruning loppers, which are just a little bit bigger and require two hands to use. While less nimble than shears, loppers give you the power to tackle bigger branches.  

8 – Trowel 

When working on smaller scales where a shovel is a little too imprecise, a trowel comes in handy. Look for something with a round or pointed blade that is metal. There are many different iterations of a basic trowel, such as Japanese Hori Hori garden knives, that can be explored in Corona’s catalog. 

9 – Rakes 

While we do recommend investing in a leaf blower eventually, if you are not there yet a rake is a good middle-ground. There are two types of rakes. One is a leaf rake, which is used to clean grass clipping, leaves and other light debris from yards and is often fan shaped. You will also want what is called a garden rake. These have more squared, flat heads that feature a line of sharp tines. This is perfect for heavier duty, more dense work, such as removing rocks and spreading out soil, mulch and other materials. 

Seymour Midwest carries both types of rake, making them a great starting place for landscapers looking for a new rake! 

10 – Aerator 

Aerating the ground might sound odd, but it is a key method to helping water, air and nutrients enter a lawn. We recommend avoiding manual aerators, as they require a large amount of time and effort to use. Instead, an electric or gas-powered aerator is a great option.  

11 – Tiller  

A tiller’s job is to break up packed dirt into loose soil. This makes it easier to plant later and is a key tool if you are doing a lot of larger-scale planting work. You also might want to consider a cultivator which operates similar to a tiller but with smaller tines that are better for mixing soil rather than just breaking it up. Toro carriers both cultivators and tillers, making them a great place to get started.  

12 – Spreader 

Between using your tiller to break up soil to employing the cultivator to mix it, you might want to use a spreader. This does what the label says and spreads seed and fertilizer over an area. They can come in two types, push and tow. A push-behind spreader is good for using on foot in a smaller space, where a tow-behind is the go-to for larger spaces where you will want to connect it to a truck or mower.  

13 – Sprayer 

Have a lawn that needs fertilizer or pesticide but no tilling? You’ll want to get a pressure sprayer! These come in handheld, backpack and tow-behind styles, and it's really up to you and your needs which one is best. A great place to start exploring your options is The Fountain Head Group’s catalog! 

14 – Wheelbarrow 

Transporting material around a property can be a pain, especially if there aren’t good access points for your truck or trailer. That’s when you will appreciate investing in a good wheelbarrow. We suggest looking for something with 6 to 10 cubic feet of space. Also, consider opting for a two-wheeled barrow like Seymour Midwest sells, rather than the classic one wheel for more control and stability.  

17 – Auger 

An auger, or a post-hole digger, is a type of double-bladed shovel that makes digging round, uniform holes easier. This is perfect for when you need to place fence holes or some other type of post in a space. 

There are gas and electric augers that use corkscrew bits to drill holes. These are more expensive but dig faster. So, it’s a good investment if your team is going to be doing a lot of fence work. Otherwise, you can probably stick to manual options like those from Seymour Midwest. 

16 – Tamper 

A tamper does the inverse of a tiller or aerator – it compacts the soil. This is a key step to installing a patio, paving stones or other flat surfaces, as it keeps the soil from settling over time and messing up your careful placement of stones. There are long handled tampers, such as those from Corona, that are good for small spaces and rolling ones for larger areas. There are gas-powered tampers on the market, but they really aren’t worth the expense unless you’re expecting to tamp very large spaces, very frequently. 

17 – Hose 

There’s likely already a hose set up at your clients’ house, but having your own ensures that you won’t have to worry about not having a long enough hose or a homeowner’s hose bursting. It also gives you control over the nozzle attachment, which can be extremely helpful! We recommend trusted brands like Rain Bird for professional-grade hoses and nozzles. 

18 – Gloves 

And you don’t want to forget about keeping your crew safe and healthy on the job site. The first step is making sure they have a good set of gloves to protect their hands from things like thorns, cuts, insect bites, blisters and more.  

19 – Safety glasses 

Especially if your crew is working with some of the powered or sharp tools we talked about earlier, they need to have the proper eye and ear safety equipment. Bare minimum, we recommend having safety glasses and earmuffs/plugs for them. 

20 – Boots 

Landscaping can be a hazardous job, especially if there’s a lot of heavy equipment and trucks moving around. That’s why ensuring your crew is working in steel-toed boots or shoes is so important. These will help keep them safe from anything that might fall or roll over their feet.  

Conclusion 

This isn’t a comprehensive list, especially in the advent of digital tools. But it’s a good starting point to making sure you and your team have everything needed to succeed when you are landscaping a client’s home. Remember, if you purchase these for company activities, you will want to save receipts and track it as a business expense. Not only will this help you during the tax season, but it will also help you calculate your overhead costs and profit margins.