Landscape Myths
HOA Horror Stories
Spot the Problem
Pro Level Landscaping
“WHY PROPERTY MANAGERS LOSE SLEEP”
(A.K.A. Biggest Issues With Landscapers)
(A.K.A. Biggest Issues With Landscapers)
100
“More watering always means greener grass.”
False
“If that were true, your inbox would be full of compliments instead of water bills.”
100
“What happens when vendors only show up before board meetings?”
Everything looks fine… temporarily.
“It’s the landscaping equivalent of cleaning five minutes before guests arrive.”
100
What’s wrong with this picture?
Overgrown shrubs blocking visibility
100
The most important month for landscape success is…
The planning month
100
“The most common phrase property managers hear from landscapers.”
“We’ll take care of it.”
“Comforting words… with absolutely no timestamp.”
200
“All fertilizers are basically the same.”
False
“That logic also applies to coffee… and we all know how that ends.”
200
“The #1 reason HOAs switch landscape vendors.”
Poor communication
200
Why is this turf struggling?
- Water, soil, or shade mismatch
- Drought stress or lack of water
- Turf Disease
- Early stages of insect damage
- Improper mowing
- Nutrient deficiency
200
One thing HOAs should receive every month from a great vendor.
Clear communication & site updates
200
“What usually happens after a landscaper says, ‘That’s not included.’”
A board discussion, resident complaints, and three emails asking you to explain it.
“Nothing like discovering ‘not included’ in front of a board.”
300
“Landscaping is just cosmetic.”
False False False
“Until it turns into a liability, safety issue, or emergency board meeting.”
300
“This ‘minor issue’ quietly becomes a $10,000 problem.”
Drainage or irrigation leaks
“Water always finds a way… especially into next year’s budget.”
300
Why will this community get complaints next month?
No seasonal planning
300
This approach lowers costs, complaints, and emergencies.
Proactive maintenance
300
“The #1 thing managers want from landscapers—but rarely get.”
Proactive communication before it becomes a problem.
“If we hear about it from a resident first… it’s already too late.”
400
This forces property managers to chase landscapers instead of manage communities.”
No updates, no follow-ups, no documentation.