Using your voice to do home tasks may seem awkward at first, but megabrands are counting on it becoming natural.    And that means irrigation and landscape lighting controls too. “Alexa turn on the front yard lights.” Speaking to a device in your home is dramatically faster and easier than fussing with an app on your smart phone.   Commands don’t need …

Gain the power of a trusted resource when you participate in Central’s 2018 Turf Early Order Program. Plan your purchases early to get unmatched pricing and terms. Buy Smart Lock in the best pricing and discounts by taking action now. Plus receive extended terms. Total Solutions Combine purchases from our wide selection of industry-leading suppliers for fertilizer, chemicals and seed. …

Many parts of the country are enjoying warmer and drier weather than normal. This gives you an opportunity to extend your season and capture additional profit dollars. Here’s how to make the most of the weeks ahead: Fill remaining openings in your schedule. Got room to squeeze in more work? Pick up the phone! You’ll be surprised how many sales you …

How do you create landscape lighting plans that grow your reputation as a true professional? The right installation methods are essential. But what about design? We asked our team of lighting experts to share their ideas on simple things contractors can do to take their lighting designs from good to great: 1) Move past stake-mounted fixtures. Basic lighting designs rely on …

Autumn is an important season for turf management. During shorter days and cooler nights, turf begins to grow vigorously again, filling in open areas, becoming more dense and accumulating carbohydrates efficiently. Experts agree that it is important to do a final application of fertilizer before the on-set of winter. This helps assure that the turf roots remain healthy and allows …

What makes professional landscape lighting stand out from amateur efforts? Certainly using the right product makes a difference. Professional quality components are better constructed, aim light more effectively and stand up tough landscape conditions. Equally important is the design and layout of the system. There’s a real difference in professionally-designed installations. Professional designers select each fixture type, output and placement …

Are your customers irritated by deer munching on their shrubs and newly-planted flowers? Growing populations of deer in suburban areas are creating a new opportunity for savvy contractors to protect their clients’ plants from being trampled and eaten. Deer resistant plants? Not a solution, say experts. Deer adapt and keep eating. The best solution is application of professional deer repellents. …

All signs indicate that 2016 will be a fantastic year for landscape and irrigation professionals. There will be plenty of work out there from both new construction and landscape upgrades. Now is a great time to get organized for the season ahead so you’re not strained by unnecessary hassles that will get in the way of your ability to take …

Some of the most important living spaces in today’s homes are outdoors. Over the last 10 years, we’ve seen a surge in popularity of outdoor spaces for relaxing, entertaining and enjoying time with family and friends. The popularity of outdoor living spaces has driven dramatic growth in products for outdoor kitchens, pavers and decking, and of course landscape lighting. Now …