POCASSET — Chris Mark and Sons Landscape's acquisition of Hoxie Landscape is a is a merger of well-established Cape Cod businesses that prioritize service and commitment to excellence, according to co-owner Joshua Mark.
Hoxie Landscape Services, based in Sandwich, was established in 1993 by Robert Hoxie Jr. and Richard Cox. Chris Mark established his Pocassett-based business in 1997. As Mark's business grew, his sons got into the act, mowing lawns and getting properties ready for spring, summer and winter. Ten years ago, Chris sold his business to his sons, Brian and Joshua. Now 52 and 50, Brian and Joshua still have their father's example to lead them.
Chris’ legacy is emblazoned on the training room wall at the company’s office on Barlow Landing Drive. “Live Like Chris” stands out in in large letters above a whiteboard and video monitor where staff are trained on everything from safety rules and regulations to getting their paychecks direct deposited. Beneath the motto are the words: Communicate. Hustle. Respect. Integrity. Safety.
“My dad is a pretty special guy,” said Brian Mark in an interview Sept. 24. “He gave us our work ethic, particularly the hustle, respect, and integrity.”
Hoxie is a giant in his own right according to the two men. He knows plants. He knows trees. He knows lawns. They call him a landscape guru. Hoxie created Nature Guard, a product that he developed over decades in the business. The focus is all about treating and caring for the soil, Joshua said.
“My brother and I grew up idolizing Bob Hoxie and what he created,” Joshua said. “We watched him work his craft. They (Hoxie) had some great properties.”
CMS Landscape's business plan
Now approximately 1,000 properties will come under the care of CMS Landscape. Hoxie and his partner Richard Cox will remain with the new company. Their goal is to be a full-service company for clients, taking care of everything from landscape design, to care of lawns, gardens, trees and shrubs. They will install patios and outdoor living spaces and maintain the health of the property.
“We're not just cutting lawns and putting in mulch,” Brian said. “We want to take care of everything you need on your property.”
Brian estimates the total work force will be around 70 at the height of summer season. Seasonal workers include high school and college students. Some employees remain year round, but most will be laid off in the winter due to the seasonal nature of the business. The company does snowplowing, but there hasn't been much call for it the last few years.
What are the trends in outdoor spaces
Since COVID, property owners have invested more and more money into their outdoor spaces, Joshua said. Fireplaces, fire pits, outdoor kitchens and living spaces top the list. Plunge pools, mini swimming pools, have become popular. There’s been a move to more organic care, pollinator gardens, and more native plants, those that survive and thrive naturally on Cape Cod.
“Hydrangeas are a staple, but there’s been a movement towards simplicity,” Brian said.
Only the irrigation systems are high tech. They can now use weather forecasts to regulate watering. Systems adjust for seasons, temperature, humidity and other factors. Clients are taught about watering responsibly, Joshua said.
They work with clients sharing what plants and shrubs will grow well in what locations. They work collaboratively with partners who are arborists, designers, contractors, and conservation commissions so they can provide better service and products to customers, Joshua said.
"It's two legacy companies coming together," Joshua said. "We're trying to maintain that Chris Mark/Bob Hoxie way of doing things. We want to make him proud."
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This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Chris Mark and Sons Landscape acquires Hoxie Landscape Services with a plan for the future
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