In this episode of Signature Stories, we traveled to Brighton, Michigan, to meet Jeff Roberts, founder and owner of Modern Lawn & Tree Care. What began as a way to share his passion for lawn and tree health with his sons, Brett and Brad, has grown into one of Michigan’s finest and most-respected operations.
Read on to see how Jeff leveraged over four decades of experience—and a commitment to quality—to build a thriving business. All fueled by a one-man, one-machine approach and powered by Z Turf Equipment from the Exmark family of products.
Quality, Quality, Quality
For Jeff, the journey started with a simple principle: deliver unmatched quality, treat every lawn like it’s your own, and build something worth passing down. After spending years in the industry, he launched Modern Lawn & Tree Care in 2003, with his sons by his side.
From the very start, family and a commitment to quality have been at the heart of the company. As Brett says, “The most important thing for us when we’re out working in the field is quality, quality, quality.” With this mindset, they deliver the premier service their clients paid for.
When they’re out on the job, each employee is running a solo operation. With one truck and one trailer, their goal is to deliver exceptional results, day in and day out.
And Jeff doesn’t just manage from behind a desk. He’s also out there, using the same Z-Spray spreader-sprayers, facing the same trials, and ensuring every customer gets the best care possible.
One Team, One Goal
Running a family business isn’t without its challenges. Long days in the field can be tough, and disagreements do happen from time to time. But for Jeff and his sons, every bump in the road has only made them, and Modern Lawn & Tree Care, even stronger.
That sense of family extends to their clients as well. They care for every property like its their own backyard. Every lawn provides an opportunity to deliver results they can be proud of. And every customer relationship is built on trust, thanks to their consistently outstanding service.
Built for Success
To maintain the high standard of service they’re known for, the right equipment is more than just important—it’s essential. That’s why, since 2011, Modern Lawn & Tree Care has been using Z-Spray spreader-sprayers.
Speaking on the Z-Spray, Jeff said “it’s the difference between making money and losing money.” When they switched, productivity gains were immediate. Hills became manageable, more jobs were added to each daily schedule, and the machines’ reliability meant more time treating lawns, and less in the shop.
Today, Jeff and his sons work closely with Z Turf Equipment’s development team—testing prototypes, offering feedback, and ensuring every new feature meets the demands of the job. And, the Z Turf team is incredibly receptive, taking their feedback and making the changes that need to be made.
The newer models deliver even greater serviceability, making maintenance faster and easier than ever before. And because Z Turf is part of the Exmark family of products, Jeff knows he’s backed by decades of trusted engineering and support.
Powered by Z Turf Equipment and Exmark
The relationship between Modern Lawn & Tree Care and Z Turf is more than equipment. It’s about empowerment, respect, and hard work—giving the pros the tools they need to get the job done and get it done right.
With Z Turf Equipment and Exmark behind them, they’re setting the standard for lawn and tree care, one property at a time.
NOTE: This video depicts real-life situations from professional landscapers. Some parts and accessories shown are third-party and not endorsed by Exmark. Always follow all safety guidelines and wear appropriate PPE. Reference your user manual for proper operation.
