You are hereWays to Use the UGA Extension Landscape Alerts to Add Value to the Landscape Services you Offer!
Ways to Use the UGA Extension Landscape Alerts to Add Value to the Landscape Services you Offer!
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Willie Chance, Outreach Coordinator, UGA Center for Urban Agriculture When you receive an Alert on a recent pest outbreak:
- Use the Alert information to train workers how to look for this pest and how to determine if some type of control is needed.
- If you see the pest in a landscape, tell the client that you have found this pest and if there is any need for concern. Even if you do not have to manage the pest, the client will appreciate this information and this will build your rapport with your client.
- Leave a copy of the Alert with the client or direct them to the Alert website.
- You can link to the Alerts on your website or re-issue the Alerts to your customers in your own email newsletter, as a mail out, etc. Please keep the original author information on whatever you publish so the readers will know the information comes from UGA.
Use Alerts for training workers, especially on rainy days. Make a notebook of pertinent Alerts and other information and put it in every vehicle to use to identify problems.
Train workers using the online bilingual safety videos – This improves safety, protects workers and reduces liability. Make certain that your insurance provider knows that you provide this training and certify that all workers have been trained.
If an Alert mentions that it is time for a particular type of service (aerating, planting, seeding, mulching, etc.) then begin to promote that service with your customers. Information from UGA will help the customer understand the importance of performing these services at the right time of the year.
Alerts can help you to train your customers. Some customers may not realize the need to follow recommendations that you make concerning proper watering, timely maintenance, etc. Information from the Alerts or other UGA publications can help you to make your point when you encourage homeowners concerning their responsibilities to properly maintain their landscapes. This might include proper watering, mowing, pruning, fertilization, etc. You could also train the client to look out for certain types of pests or other problems.
Landscape Alert readers also receive information on upcoming trainings and events.
- Keep your certifications up to date with these trainings.
- Make certain your clients know of your certifications, memberships and trainings you attend so they will realize the ongoing training you receive. You could publish a short article once a year to let clients know of your ongoing training.
Alerts promote helpful publications and resources from UGA.
- Bookmark these online or print a copy for your use.
- Share these publications with clients as you work to provide the best service possible for them. They will like the fact that your recommendations are backed by UGA research and information.
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