What does Dan Bailey, owner of Bailey’s Lawn and Landscape in Middletown, Delaware, like about being in the landscape services business? “You get to be outside, and you do something different every day,” says Bailey, who started his business 11 years ago while a student at the University of Delaware. And Bailey’s Lawn & Landscape has a lot of potential for variety. Bailey’s is a full-service landscaping company: they design, build, install, and maintain landscapes, and specialize in designing and installing outdoor living spaces, patios, walkways, and retaining walls.

Bailey’s Lawn and Landscaping employs 15 seasonal workers, 5 of whom stay on through the winter season to do snow plowing and get ready for the next growing season. Their primary focus is residential work in Middletown and Odessa, an area booming with residential development. The business has a certified pesticide applicator on staff, as well as certification from the Interlocking Concrete Paving Institute (ICPI).

While it’s great to be outside, it’s also a source of the greatest challenges for the business. The seasonal nature of the work means there isn’t enough work for all employees year-round, and it can be difficult to find people who are willing and able to work that way. Many of the employees have little background or experience in landscaping, so they need to be trained after they are hired. “It’s an industry-wide problem,” says Bailey.

Dan Bailey is currently the President of the DNLA. Encouraged by a DNLA member to join 6 years ago, he has found a lot of value in belonging to the Association. The industry expos and workshops sponsored by the DNLA provide opportunities for education, and the Member Directory on the DNLA website has led to new clients for the business. Bailey has some advice for prospective members, too. “If you join the DNLA, get involved. Be a part of the change you want.”

Bailey’s motto is “Going the extra yard”, a play on words and a summary of his approach. “We work to make sure our customers are happy from start to finish,” says Bailey. Take a look at the photo gallery of their work, and you’ll see how that comes to life.