The post positions are set. The exciting new thoroughbreds and the riders who will guide them are ready to race. And when the fanfare plays and the starting gates swing open on the 2024 Equip Exposition Oct. 15-18, the most exciting four days in the landscape industry will be off and running.
That all might be stretching the metaphor just a bit, but it does seem appropriate considering the biggest gathering in the landscape and lawn care industry takes place in the shadow of Churchill Downs, the storied venue of the biggest event in horse racing. Heck, the two are practically joined at the hip, at least this year — Equip Expo’s Welcome Reception takes place at Churchill Downs on Tuesday, Oct. 15.
Once the gates swing open for the indoor and outdoor exhibition areas, the focus will shift to the latest and greatest equipment available to landscapers and lawn care operators. From trusted companies and products that are staples in the industry to the up-and-comers and cutting-edge technology that is moving the industry forward, Equip Expo will have something for everyone.
That’s in addition to the countless live demos, world-class education and networking opportunities that will also be part of this year’s events in Louisville, Ky., all of which combine to make the event a must-attend for professionals from around the country.
To help prepare racers … er, attendees for some of the equipment that will be on display in Louisville, LM reached out to exhibitors to learn about the “showstoppers” they’ll be showing off at Equip Expo. There are mowers, utility vehicles, handheld equipment, software and products for your team to learn about, so settle in and get yourself ready for the Run for the (landscape industry’s) Roses!
John Deere
Indoor Booth No. 1110
Outdoor Booth No. 7834D
The new John Deere Z900 Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) zero-turn mowers, including the Z955M/R, Z965M/R, Z975M and Z985R models, offer smoother operation as the fuel injection system and ignition work together to maintain performance. These new models boast various efficiency-boosting features, including electronic fuel-sending units, which display the mower’s fuel level. Additionally, the digital display showcases vehicle hours, engine speed and battery state, as well as indicators for power take-off, operator presence control, oil pressure and the parking brake.
Takeuchi
Indoor Booth No. 11146
Outdoor Booth No. 7734
Takeuchi’s new TCR50-2 crawler dumper can carry heavy loads over unstable or rough terrain, even in confined spaces, reducing the time and labor required for landscaping tasks. Weighing 14,440 lbs. with a 118-horsepower engine, the TCR50-2 offers a 65-degree dumping angle and 8,157 lbs. maximum loading weight. It allows operators to carry up to 2.7 cu. yds. of material while rotating and dumping it in a single cycle. The TCR50-2 can also access areas that larger, heavier equipment cannot reach, such as steep inclines, dense vegetation or areas with limited access, allowing landscapers to work on challenging projects without compromising efficiency.
HYgreen Tool
Indoor Booth No. 42227
The GoMow is a robotic lawn mower that uses virtual boundary technology. The automatic, solar-powered lawn mower is eco-friendly, has RTK (Real-time Kinematic) positioning GPS and has a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) antenna. Available for pre-purchase via its crowdfunding site, GoMow will be ready for sale nationwide in early February 2025 via the company’s website. Other product features include an adjustable cutting height, a large battery capacity that can mow a lawn the size of three basketball courts on a single charge, a self-developed app for ease of use and unique floating bumpers and sensors to ensure safety around children and pets.
Develon
Indoor Booth No. 42841
Outdoor Booth No. 6360D
The DTL35 compact track loader will be among the products Develon will display during its first appearance as an exhibitor at Equip Expo. Introduced earlier this year, the DTL35 is a large-frame compact track loader with 115.3 horsepower and a rated operating capacity of 3,807 lbs. An around-view monitor (AVM) camera system that provides up to 270 degrees of visibility for enhanced operator productivity and safety is available as an option for the DTL35. In Develon’s indoor booth, the DTL35 will be fitted with a 78-inch brush cutter attachment, while the unit available for demos in the outdoor area will be paired with a bucket attachment. The company will also display a trio of mini excavators in Louisville — the zero tail swing DX35Z-7, the conventional tail swing DX42-7 and the reduced tail swing DX62R-7.
Blue Thumb
Indoor Booth No. 23010
The Blue Thumb fountain kit is uniquely designed to create an eye-catching water feature that the company says will captivate onlookers as water gracefully glides over the acrylic surface of a sphere, creating an enchanting effect where the world appears upside down. This fountain kit offers landscapers the opportunity to create a distinctive focal point with high client appeal that is versatile, low maintenance and can increase property values.
Arborjet | Ecologel
Indoor Booth No. 264
Redefining battery-powered trunk injection technology, the Inteli-jet is a rechargeable micro-injection system with an eight-hour battery life and a durable carbon-fiber body weighing less than two pounds. Smart injection technology and patented pulse modes work with the tree to enhance uptake speeds, and the device displays injection pressure, milliliters applied and the dose count directly on the screen. By optimizing uptake based on each tree’s condition, tracking the progress of treatments on screen and holding its charge throughout the day, the company says Inteli-jet will save considerable time and labor.
Kioti
Indoor Booth No. 3212
Outdoor Booth No. 7528
Kioti says the TL750 compact track loader leverages years of experience to deliver unparalleled power and performance without sacrificing comfort. Featuring a 74-horsepower engine, the TL750’s ergonomic design, including a wide cabin and roll-up-style door, enhances operator comfort, while the durable build ensures reliability in any conditions. Built to lift, push and power through rigorous demands, the loader boasts an impressive 10.8-foot height-to-hinge pin and vertical lift path. Among the top of the class in lift height, operators can easily dump materials into trucks and high-sided hoppers. Hydraulic pilot joystick controls offer ultimate maneuverability, delivering superior “featherability” and finite control. As a result, the machine feels like an extension of the operator, enabling efficient, precise work — even in tight spaces or during complex tasks.
Bobcat
Indoor Booth No. 3052
Outdoor Booth No. 7506D and 7700D
What Bobcat says is the world’s first all-electric compact track loader, the T7X will be the centerpiece of the company’s display at Equip Expo. Now commercially available at select Bobcat dealers and available to rent through specific Sunbelt Rental locations, the T7X was featured at prior trade shows, but this will be the first time attendees can operate the loader as part of Bobcat’s exhibit. Bobcat will also display its new line of utility tractors, which debuted in June, including the UT6573. The utility tractors feature 12×12 power shuttle transmissions, delivering smooth shifting without stepping on a clutch pedal. Powered by turbocharged, Tier 4 diesel engines, these tractors offer robust performance, low-end torque and an efficient fuel system. Bobcat’s turf renovation equipment — including aerators, sod cutters, dethatchers and overseeders — which joined the company’s product offerings earlier this year following a brand transition from Ryan, the ZT5000 zero-turn mower and the AT450 articulating tractor will also be a part of the company’s display in Louisville.
Lawnline Marketing
Indoor Booth No. 21080
Lawnline’s recent partnership with SiteOne Landscape Supply will be front and center at the company’s booth at Equip Expo. As a part of this partnership, all SiteOne Partner Members now receive an exclusive 10-percent discount on Lawnline Marketing’s services for one year. Members also receive access to a library of free resources that include educational articles, insights, benchmarking and templates to maximize DIY marketing efforts. Additionally, SiteOne and Lawnline now produce and distribute new educational content about marketing weekly to address the challenge of poor information online for those handling their own marketing. This includes insights into Lawnline’s data, the most effective strategies, how-tos and pre-built templates.
Exmark
Indoor Booth No. 7080
Outdoor Booth No. 7444
To mark the 30th anniversary of Exmark’s Lazer Z commercial zero-turn mower, the company is unveiling not one, but three redesigned Lazer Z models. With new features, refinements and options, the company says the new Lazer Z models will set the new standard for cut quality, productivity and durability for commercial zero-turn mowers. The new Lazer Z line gives contractors a wide range of options to build the perfect mower — or mowers — for their operation. Designed for zero in-season maintenance, the new Lazer Z models give landscape professionals the right tool to finish every job quickly and efficiently all season long.
Mulch Mate
Indoor Booth No. 1088
Outdoor Booth No. 5231
Mulch Mate will unveil the all-new DS2000 at Equip Expo, which the company says is the industry’s leading bulk material dispenser. Mulch Mate’s low-maintenance products let teams lay mulch, rock, sand, compost and dirt faster and safer, allowing companies to double their output while keeping or reducing labor costs and liability. The DS2000s are also all-electric, meaning they are safe for the environment. Their quiet operation allows teams to work in a more enjoyable environment and reduces noise disruptions for property owners.
Backslope
Indoor Booth No. 42300
Outdoor Booth No. 5111
Backslope produces four models of stand-on spreaders/sprayers designed to be stable on hills and slopes. All the company’s machines are commercial grade with 100-percent stainless steel frames, Honda engines and heavy-duty drive systems. Backslope says its machines feature simple and intuitive controls, making the machine less complex and more reliable in the field, unlike many spreaders/sprayers on the market today which have very complex controls for spreading and spraying.
Foamstream
Indoor Booth No. 22082
Foamstream from Weedingtech is an eco-friendly weeding solution that utilizes a biodegradable foam to effectively manage weeds without using harmful chemicals, making it a sustainable choice for groundskeeping. The company says Foamstream addresses several challenges faced by landscapers and groundskeepers. It provides an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chemical herbicides, reducing the ecological impact of weed management. Additionally, it offers a safe solution for use in public spaces, minimizing health risks to humans and animals. Foamstream’s effectiveness in various weather conditions and on different surfaces ensures reliable weed control.
Brown Equipment Co.
Indoor Booth No. 29078
Brown Equipment Co. will showcase the Mulch Mule, which it says is the ultimate solution for efficient and precise mulch delivery. The machine features a powerful conveyor system that saves time and labor while ensuring consistent material application. Perfect for landscaping professionals, the Mulch Mule is designed to boost productivity and simplify large-scale projects. It solves the challenge of time-consuming manual mulch distribution and application by providing a streamlined, automated solution. It reduces labor costs and boosts efficiency, allowing landscapers to complete large projects faster with minimal effort, according to the company.
Pro Landscape Design Software
Indoor Booth No. 10186
Pro Landscape+ is the ultimate landscape design software package, according to the company, combining cutting-edge photo imaging, intuitive and precise CAD, stunning 3D renderings and comprehensive, professional proposals — all in one seamless solution. The software is ideal for professionals looking to elevate their landscape design capabilities and wow clients with visually compelling presentations. PRO Landscape+ streamlines the design process for landscape professionals, allowing designers, contractors, architects and garden centers to quickly create polished, professional designs that clients can easily visualize. The company says it saves time, improves client communication and is now more affordable than ever, making high-quality design accessible for all levels of expertise.
LaunchPad
Indoor Booth No. 4015
LaunchPad Chat is designed to automate lead channels, allowing new or existing clients to receive high-quality customer service 24/7. LaunchPad Chat creates an AI agent for contractors, which can pick up the phone or talk to clients on their behalf.
Contractors can ensure clients never go to voicemail and can always get their questions answered. Business owners and their team can spend less time on the phone or answering emails and instead can focus on qualified leads and other strategic activities. As the software grows, businesses will be able to leverage the AI agent internally to answer questions about the business and assist the employees with their work.
Leaf Burrito
Indoor Booth No. 276
Leaf Burrito is a reusable, ergonomic, durable mesh yard bag with zippers and handles that start flat and zip closed. The company says these handmade bags eliminate expensive short-lived tarps and single-use bags, making them a more sustainable solution for landscapers. Leaf Burritos cut job times in half, and thanks to the ergonomic handles, it is much safer for workers. The bags can be custom branded, giving landscapers that professional and sustainable message to customers.
Heritage Landscape Supply Group
Indoor Booth No. 22063
Artimuss turf seed features Gravity PGS, a plant growth stimulator used on the seeds as a pretreatment to boost growth and development for faster spread, higher density and greener color. Because it’s developed with cultivars using lateral spread technology, which improves strand density under stress, Artimuss is resistant to drought, heat, traffic and fungal diseases such as gray leaf spot and brown patch. The company says Artimuss is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-performing tall fescue variety that combines beauty and durability with some of the fastest germination of any turf seed on the market.
Case Construction Equipment
Indoor Booth No. 7216
Outdoor Booth No. 7546
The new Case SL27 is a 50-horsepower articulated loader that brings construction-grade capabilities to jobs big and small. The compact size, articulated configuration and more than 70 available attachments give contractors a flexible, highly maneuverable machine for working in tight spaces like backyards or residential sites. With over three tons of straight tipping load, the company says the SL27 is powerful enough to take on all kinds of work but compact and nimble enough to get in and out of tight spaces and on and off the trailer easily. Features include a standard Z bar loader, an SSL-compatible attachment coupler and a standard 14-pin electrical auxiliary connector, giving contractors more flexibility to hook up big-time attachments and tackle more jobs.
SynkedUP
Indoor Booth No. 20064
The SynkedUp app is designed to assist contractors with estimating and tracking jobs, which can be profit-killing tasks for many companies. The company says jobs can be priced correctly while automatically recovering overhead expenses in estimates. Overruns on labor and materials can be reduced by automatically job costing every job, which can position companies to hit profit goals more consistently.
Kress Commercial
Indoor Booth No. 1054
Outdoor Booth No. 7650
The new Kress Commercial CyberTank Lite DC-DC battery charging system pairs the new CyberLite Charger with the CyberCapsule battery areas and require extensive walking on open areas, while the model 410-SP brings a four-wheel drive quadrasteer model that carries the operator along to save steps on large jobs.
Kubota
Indoor Booth No. 5084
Outdoor Booth No. 7400D
Kubota will showcase the ZD1611 at Equip Expo, which replaces the ZD1511 in the company’s ZD Series of commercial zero-turn mowers. It features a 30.8-horsepower Kubota Common Rail System (CRS) diesel engine that the company says delivers exceptional levels of power, torque and reliable performance. Designed for commercial landscapers, the ZD1611 is available in three deck configurations — a 72-inch side-discharge mower and 60- and 72-inch rear-discharge mowers. The ZD1611 also features an air-ride suspension seat with adjustable reclining and lumbar support and a 12-volt power outlet conveniently placed in the cup holder that allows for the charging of electronic devices. Trailering is made easy with a tie-down point on the front axle to provide extra security when transporting the mower, Kubota says.
BOSS Snowplow
Indoor Booth No. 11212
According to BOSS Snowplow, the VBX+ spreader is packed with smart features that allow for precise material distribution and jobsite tracking. The VBX+ is designed to be a smart-connected spreader for BOSS’s next phase of technology. The VBX+ from BOSS provides an intelligent solution to the challenge of using too much material, with its advanced spreader technology putting the user in control.
Greene County Fertilizer Company
Indoor Booth No. 4004
N-Ext Air-8 PRO liquid aeration offers improved nutrient efficiency, greater water penetration and even more root mass for any fertility program, according to the company. Use as a standalone application or as an alternative to mechanical aeration. N-Ext Air-8 PRO is designed to loosen topsoil and encourage deeper rooting, allowing for greater root zone oxygenation. N-Ext Air-8 PRO is safe for use on all turf and soil types. The company says its products are flexible additions to any existing fertility program as a way to add biostimulants, fill in missing components, address existing problems or environmental conditions, reduce nitrogen inputs and improve overall results.
Hannay Reels
Indoor Booth No. 3040
Hannay’s Spray Non-Corrosive (SNC) Series reels are made primarily of 304-grade stainless steel. They are designed to accommodate single hoses with internal diameters from 3/8 to 5/8 inches. The reels are available with manual crank or electric rewind options. Additional features include 4-way roller guides and stacking kits for up to two reels made of 304-grade stainless steel. The stainless steel construction provides durability in corrosive environments. The SNC series can be used with various liquids, including water, pesticides and fertilizer mixtures.
