Bayer probes green industry to learn what landscapers need

In a survey, landscapers responded that weed control was their most important treatments.In a survey, landscapers responded that weed control was their most important treatments.

It may come as no surprise that a recent survey conducted by Bayer found that a shortage of skilled labor is the greatest challenge for those in the green industry.

Of the landscapers polled, 62 percent reported that the labor shortage was one of the top issues, followed by a lack of customer loyalty at 44 percent and the cost of labor at 34 percent.

“Skilled labor has been one of the greatest challenges in the green industry,” said Pete Farno, U.S. lawn & landscape business manager for Bayer. “But by helping businesses work smarter through advanced product innovations, we can help alleviate a small portion of that associated stress.”

In the survey, landscapers also shared what treatment was the most important in their overall program. A total of 91 percent responded that weed control was the most important. Next was fertilization at 82 percent, insect control at 59 percent and disease control at 46 percent.

“We’re in the business of understanding and helping provide solutions to green industry professionals,” Farno said. “Surveys help illuminate industry challenges and are a great way to engage industry professionals for insight regarding their needs and the needs of their customers.”

According to Bayer, another issue lawn care operators are experiencing is the pressure to find pollinator-friendly products. In an effort to respond to the concerns about bees, Bayer is working on product innovation, education, and habitat improvement. The bee decline has many factors so Bayer is focusing on several different fronts.

“We want to keep the decisions based on science,” said Frank Wong, senior regulatory affairs consultant for Bayer.

For landscapers already planning ahead for next year, Bayer is starting its 2016 Fall Solutions Program, which allows participants to save on individual products and bundles until Dec. 9.

For example, the Warm Season Herbicide PAK is a combination of pre- and post-emergence herbicide options and provides 8 percent savings compared with individual components. To participate in the program, landscapers must be a member of My Bayer Rewards.

Those who sign up for My Bayer Rewards before March 1, 2017, will receive 2016 Fall Solutions rebates. Depending on their profile choice, they will either get distributor credit or loyalty points.

For more information about the Fall Solutions Program, click here.

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