CITY OF BARRIE
WINS GREEN CITIES AWARD
2025 LEADERSHIP SUMMIT INTERACTIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCE
UPGRADED PROGRAMMING TO NATIONAL CERTIFICATION
GROWERS COMMITTEE TOURS PISTOIA, ITALY
TARIFF THREATS AN INDUSTRY CONCERN
GCC HOSTS MUST-ATTEND EVENT
ANITA HEUVER BEGINS CNLA PRESIDENCY
GREEN INDUSTRY TOUR NORTH CAROLINA HORTICULTURE
The Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC) is the only national, multi-trade and technology competition for students and apprentices in the country. At SCNC Regina 2025, more than 500 competitors from across Canada will participate in over 40 skilled trade and technology competitions, across six sectors.
The Landscape Gardening competition is always a hit among participants and attendees, making Skills/Compétences Canada’s flagship event a great opportunity to showcase up-and-coming talent within the horticulture industry. Don’t miss this chance to compete, to volunteer, or to attend this wonderful event to witness our country’s future skilled workforce as they explore new and exciting careers.
At SCNC Regina 2025, approximately 10,000 students will visit the competition floors and discover the rewarding careers that are available to them in the skilled trades and technologies.
Support your landscaping profession and join us in May, or get a team member podium-ready by competing in your local provincial competition. Scan the QR code for more information on provincial and national SCNC 2025 events.
President Anita Heuver - AB
Past President, Communications Committee Chair Bill Hardy, CLHM - BC
Vice President, Climate Change Adaptation Chair Alan White - ON
Second Vice President, & Human Resources Chair Jeff Foley, CLHT, CLHM - BC
Treasurer, Garden Centre Canada Chair Robin Godfrey - NS
OF DIRECTORS
BCNLA Heike Stippler, CLD - BC
Landscape AB Jeff Oudyk - AB
Landscape SK Leslie Cornell - SK
MBNLA Guy Dowhy, RSE, CLHT, CLHM - MB
Landscape ON Lindsay Drake Nightingale - ON
Landscape NS Steve Smith - NS
Professional Development Chair Mike Lunau, CLHM, CLHT - ON
Landscape NB/PEI, Member Services Chair, Insurance Chair Kevin Nauss, CLHM - NB
Landscape NL Peggy Head - NL
Landscape Canada Committee Chair Peter Guinane - ON
Research Chair Phil Paxton CLHM, CLHT - AB
Government Relations Chair Christine LeVatte CLHM, CLD - NS
Growers Canada Chair Stuart Gillies - NB
CNLA STAFF
Executive Director Victor Santacruz, CLHM, CAE victor@cnla-acpp.ca
Deputy Executive Director Rebecca Doutre, CLHM, CAE rebecca@cnla-acpp.ca
Finance Manager Cheryl Gall, CAE cheryl@cnla-acpp.ca
Communications Manager Dave Mazur dave@cnla-acpp.ca
Policy & Stakeholder Manager Leslie Sison, CAE leslie@cnla-acpp.ca
Member Services & Administration Manager Nicole Xavier nicole@cnla-acpp.ca
Retail, Landscape, & Industry HR Specialist Anne Kadwell, CLHT anne@cnla-acpp.ca
Administrative Services Catie Cane catie@cnla-acpp.ca
Member Services Coordinator Cathy Scott cathy@cnla-acpp.ca
Policy Coordinator & CNCI, COPF Edith Oyosoro edith@cnla-acpp.ca
Growers & Research Specialist Jamie Aalbers jamie@cnla-acpp.ca
Events Specialist & Communications Coordinator Lauryn Smith lauryn@cnla-acpp.ca
Content & Design Coordinator Sarah McIntosh sarah@cnla-acpp.ca
CiB & GCF
Program Specialist Sonia Parrino sonia@cnla-acpp.ca
Media Coordinator Stuart Service stuart@cnla-acpp.ca
CiB & GCF
Program Coordinator Vivian Shum vivian@cnla-acpp.ca
BY STUART SERVICE
The City of Barrie received the 2024 Green Cities Award at Communities in Bloom’s (CiB) 30th Symposium and Awards held in October in Charlottetown, PEI.
“We were truly blessed to be awarded the Green Cities Award on behalf of the community and our dedicated staff,” said Mona Boyd, Horticulture Foreperson for the City of Barrie.
Barrie staff and elected officials have received and acted on helpful insight from judging evaluations through participation with the CiB program for 27 years.
Boyd said that Barrie’s participation in CiB has been a great way each summer to bring together municipal staff and community groups eager to show the judges a peek behind the curtain of their city.
Ann-Marie Kungl, Ward 3 Councillor for the City of Barrie, said that winning the 2024 Green Cities Award was an honour on “a whole different level.”
“We’re used to getting feedback about how we’re doing year over year (from CiB judges). But this was a whole different level,” she said.
With the population in the City of Barrie projected to double by 2050, the city will need to manage different pressure points around that growth.
“Sometimes it feels like what we’re doing around climate action, a circular economy, and landfill diversion — that those aren’t maybe the top pieces when we’re looking at trying to balance budgets,” Kungl said. “But the work that staff are doing year over year has really compounded into this really impressive skill set of what they’re able to propose and actually implement.”
A big development coming to Barrie is a state-of-theart greenhouse facility set to open this spring. The new greenhouse will save the city a lot of money on electricity due to its zero-net energy build, as well as by creating a single, large space for plants across the city to be brought inside for the winter.
“We’re really excited,” said Boyd of the new structure.
“We’re blessed because there’s not a lot of municipalities that have greenhouses,” she continued. “Instead of contracting things out, we’re actually going to be able to continue growing, which we’ve been doing for a very long time here at the City.”
Upon receiving the Green Cities Award on October 20 at the Communities in Bloom National & International Awards Ceremonies Charlottetown, Kungl highlighted the City’s Waterfront Strategic Plan.
Barrie strives to be a good partner among municipalities surrounding Lake Simcoe, “and trying to really lead some practices when it comes to water quality,” Kungl said. “Our ratings around water quality and water management have been exceptional.”
“Several different efforts are happening, and it ties into this really comprehensive waterfront master plan,” she said of the plan, which plays a significant role in preserving and enhancing public spaces along Barrie’s about 10 km shoreline. The shoreline includes trail systems, parks, community gardens, passive naturalized areas, pollinator-friendly native plant species, and an approach to greenery choice that will help prevent erosion along the waterway.
At the Barrie Marina, two trash-trapping technologies are yielding great results. Through the use of Seabins, which capture floating litter such as plastics, oils, and microplastics from the water’s surface, the marina collects on average about 76 pieces of trash per day. The marina recently added a PixieDrone to the cleanup effort, which is a remote-operated, wastecollecting boat capable of holding up to 160 litres of
debris at time, capturing floating trash like plastic, metal and paper.
Barrie’s award-winning green initiatives underscore its commitment to sustainability, community collaboration, and innovative infrastructure. As the city embraces future growth, its forward-thinking strategies are creating enduring environmental and robust economic benefits.
BY LESLIE SISON, CAE
As businesses navigate economic uncertainty, employers may find themselves facing both a decline in sales and a shortage of labour resources. Fortunately, there’s a program designed to help mitigate these challenges—Work-Sharing agreements. Work-sharing agreements help avoid layoffs when:
• There is a temporary decrease in the normal level of business activity.
• The decrease is beyond the control of the employer. The agreement provides income support to employees eligible for Employment Insurance benefits who work a temporarily reduced work week while their employer recovers. To qualify, all employees participating in the agreement must experience a minimum 10 per cent reduction to their normal weekly earnings to comply with the terms of the agreement.
This program is a collaborative effort between employers, employees, and Service Canada. To participate, all involved parties—including unions, if applicable—must agree to:
• A reduced work schedule.
• Sharing available work equally among employees.
The employer and the employees involved (and the union, if applicable) must agree to participate in
a Work-Sharing agreement. Then, the employer or employer representative, employee representative and, if applicable, the union representative apply to participate in a Work-Sharing agreement.
Once an agreement is in place, businesses can stabilize their workforce while recovering, ensuring they retain skilled employees without resorting to layoffs.
For employers looking for ways to weather economic challenges, Work-Sharing provides a structured, supportive solution that benefits both businesses and workers.
If your business is facing economic uncertainty and you want to retain your skilled workforce while navigating temporary downturns, Work-Sharing could be the solution you need. By reducing work hours instead of resorting to layoffs, you can maintain business continuity, support your employees, and position your company for a strong recovery.
Don’t wait until layoffs become the only option — explore how Work-Sharing can help stabilize your workforce today by scanning the QR code.
BY ANNE KADWELL, CLHT
The CNLA’s wage survey is a vital tool for everyone involved in the landscaping and horticulture industry. It gives us valuable information that helps identify areas where the industry is growing and where there be room for more businesses to succeed. This is especially important for areas and parts of the industry that are currently underrepresented. The survey results also help businesses make informed decisions about wages, benefits for employees, and certification programs.
The significant increase in business participation in the survey from 2018 to 2024 shows that the industry is doing well. This growth is likely due to a higher demand
for landscaping services and horticultural products. By looking at the survey data, businesses can find new opportunities to grow and expand, especially in areas where there is less competition or untapped potential.
One of the great things about the CNLA wage survey is that everyone who takes part gets the statistical analysis for free. This valuable information can help businesses make informed decisions and stay competitive. For those who didn’t participate, the summary report is available at a discounted price of $50. You can purchase the summary by contacting Anne at anne@canadanursery.com.
The CNLA plans to continue conducting this wage survey every two years. The more businesses that participate, the more accurate and useful the results will be. By taking part in the survey, you’re not only helping your own business but also contributing to the overall health and success of the landscaping and horticulture industry. Let’s all work together to make a difference! Further infographics can be found at www.wagesurvey.ca
Scan to view the results!
BY LESLIE SISON, CAE
Mental health continues to be a taboo subject for many, resulting in far too many not seeking the support they need. Cost of living issues, adjusting to life after a pandemic, and unprecedented political uncertainty from our neighbour to the south are profoundly impacting Canadians.
According to a 2019 survey of working Canadians by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), 75 per cent of respondents said they would be reluctant – or would refuse – to disclose a mental illness to an employer or co-worker. Respondents were nearly three times less likely to want to disclose a mental illness like depression than a physical one like cancer. The top reasons for this reluctance were the belief that there is stigma around mental illness, not wanting to be treated differently or judged, and fear of negative consequences such as losing one’s job.
However, 76 per cent of respondents stated that they themselves would be completely comfortable with and supportive of a colleague with a mental illness. In any given year, one in five Canadians experience a mental illness.
Jamie Aalbers, Growers Sector Specialist jamie@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Help is available. If you or someone you know needs help, please use the following resources: Visit your local hospital emergency room or call 911
Nicole Xavier, Member Services & Administration Manager nicole@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Trained professionals are available 24/7 for Canadian farmers through the National Farmer Wellness Network by calling 1-866-FARMS01.
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8 . Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centres, HR & PDC Specialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Kids Help Phone Call 1-800-668-6868 (tollfree) or text CONNECT to 686868
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centre, HR & PDC Specialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
For veterans and their families, get support right now from a mental health professional by 1-800-268-7708.
Resources for dealing with grief visit:mygrief.ca
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centre, HR & PDC Specialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Leslie Sison, Policy & Stakeholder Manager leslie@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
BY STUART SERVICE
Anita Heuver was appointed president of the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) on February 4, bringing with her decades of experience in the family business and industry leadership.
Eagle Lake Nurseries, established in 1970 in Strathmore, Alberta, has grown from a 400-acre operation to nearly 1,000 acres, with 600 acres dedicated to caliper tree production. Despite Alberta’s challenging climate, the nursery has built a strong reputation for high-quality trees, shrubs, and perennials, supplying wholesale buyers, municipalities, and institutions.
Anita’s involvement in the CNLA was shaped by a family tradition of industry leadership. Her father, Tony Heuver, was president of Landscape Alberta (1987–1988), while her uncle, Henry Heuver, founder of Foothills Landscaping in Calgary, served as President of the CNLA. Tony strongly believed in industry participation, who said in a 2021 interview that, “You owe the industry to participate.”
“Anybody in this business should at least become a member, and become involved to the extent that you can and support the association,” he continued.
Jamie Aalbers, Growers Sector Speacialist jamie@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Since attending her first CNLA board meeting in 2014 as Chair of the Growers’ Committee, Anita has witnessed the association’s evolution. Initially focused on pressing issues like labour, pest management, and regulations, the CNLA has since shifted toward proactive collaboration and international engagement. The association now works with global organizations such as the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) and the United Nations Conference of Parties, ensuring the Canadian industry benefits from global best practices.
Key industry challenges remain, including labour shortages, climate change adaptation, and government relations. With a federal election on the horizon in 2025, Anita expects that changes in parliament may influence the CNLA’s approach.
“Politics may shift the government’s focus in a different direction than we anticipate,” she said. “While we don’t need to change our message or the work we’re doing, we may need to adjust how we present it.”
Anita emphasizes the importance of effective communication within the industry to increase awareness of available resources. CNLA’s public-facing initiatives, including the Green Cities Foundation and Communities in Bloom, have broadened the association’s audience, highlighting the industry’s role in climate change adaptation and community well-being.
Attracting new leadership is another priority. Anita hopes that improved communication will engage both
young professionals and experienced industry veterans, ensuring fresh perspectives and continued industry
Nicole Xavier, Member Services & Administration Manager nicole@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
“Hopefully, better communication will attract new faces and voices who want to be involved in our
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centres, HR & PDC Speacialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Labour shortages remain a persistent challenge. Anita advocates for a shift in perspective, urging employers to assess their own practices.
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centre, HR & PDC Speacialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
“I hope our discussions on the labour issues lead to a fresh perspective. We can keep repeating that there’s a labor shortage and access is a challenge, but I believe we need to reflect on ourselves as employers,” she said. “We need to examine what needs to change, what we need to learn, and what’s working or not working.”
As CNLA president, Anita aims to drive innovation, adaptability, and excellence within the industry.
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centre, HR & PDC Speacialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
“One of our greatest strengths is our ability to make things happen as a board of volunteers,” she said, adding that CNLA staff have been instrumental in bringing the board’s actions to life.
“In the big picture, our voice may be small, but we work as if it’s big.”
Leslie Sison, Policy & Stakeholder Manager leslie@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Stuart Service, Media Coordinator stuart@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Peggy Head from Pat’s Plants is leaving her position on the CNLA Board as the Landscape Newfoundland & Labrador Horticultural Association (LNLHA) representative. Peggy’s volunteer efforts will continue on the national board of Communities in Bloom. Joining the CNLA Board is Aaron Hickey from Hickey’s Greenhouses in Kelligrews, NL, who will be the LNLHA representative on the board.
David Thompson, owner of Weed Man Lawn Care Maritimes, is leaving his position on the CNLA Board as Landscape Nova Scotia representative. David continues as a Director of the Green Cities Foundation. Joining the CNLA board is Steve Smith, general manager of Nutri-Lawn Halifax, who will be the Landscape Nova Scotia representative on the board.
Thank you to Anthony O’Neill for his many years of volunteer work with the CNLA Board. Anthony concluded his term as Past President on February 4 at the association’s AGM. Anthony continues as a national director of the Communities in Bloom board.
BY STUART SERVICE
The 2025 Leadership Summit, held on February 5 at Caterpillar’s Edward J. Rapp Customer and Training Center in Clayton, North Carolina, featured discussions on leadership, diversity, technology, and industry growth.
Carla Bailey, founder of Solutions by CB and a seasoned HR strategist in Canada’s landscaping industry, led an interactive discussion about the current state of the industry’s diversity. She highlighted that the amount of women in senior roles is under 40 per cent.
“On the flipside of it, when I look at the American stats, when we look at our entire profession, we’re talking less than 7 per cent identify as women,” she said. “That is worrisome because that’s a lot of money on the table that we’re not touching.”
She then highlighted a statistic from 2022, which saw 10 companies within the S&P 500 index
appoint a female CEO. For the first time in the index’s history, there were more women CEOs than CEOs with the first name John.
“We beat out a name,” she said.
Throughout her session, Bailey had attendees respond to pointed questions on their phones, with the answers revealed on screen. She asked the audience to write about various barriers for creating a diverse workplace, as well as what would create the ideal association for an underrepresented group.
“I’m not trying to be a Debby Downer, but I want us to recognize where our challenges are,’” she said. “There’s innovative stuff that happens, and the only way we can do that is by having different types of brains in this space.”
Marcello Gortana, Executive Director of Tennis., a Toronto-based design agency, shared tips on how to use technology to grow your
business, and to help customers in a way that ultimately leads to increased sales.
In the span of 30 years, the tech world went from a niche community of dial-up internet users to today’s AI, which is writing essays, generating photos, and being used by software companies for development functions.
“All of this was really complicated for businesses,” Gortana said. “Businesses are still getting into this workflow of learning about new technology. How is it going to apply to our business, and how does it apply to our customers?”
The rapid evolution of technology is changing the buying behaviours and processes of customers. Most customers do online research in advance of a purchase, and the amount of a customer’s time spent online increases to an estimated 79 days when considering a major purchase before deciding to engage with a brand. Successful companies are finding ways to assist the customer as they conduct online research, to guide them through those 79 days.
An example of helping customers is HubSpot’s Website Grader, which breaks down the performance of a website in terms of search engine optimization, mobile functionality, and security. There is a catch: HubSpot is a CRM (Customer Relations Management) platform, and this Website Grader is a vehicle to sell their platform. But the tool is a huge success, having conducted 3 million Website Grader checks since its introduction that have resulted in 50,000 monthly leads.
Another example is the e-commerce platform Shopify, which offers tools to speed up the process of a startup to start up, like a business name generator, a Terms and Conditions generator, and a refund policy generator.
Gortana mentioned a more industry-specific example of tools offered by Network of Nature, a
Guelph-based organization whose goal is to enhance the knowledge and awareness of Canadian native plant species. Network of Nature has an interactive map of garden centres that sell native plant species. They also offer a database of Canadian native species that allows users to narrow down a specific species according to its sunlight requirements, soil pH, drought or moisture tolerance, and much more.
“The most successful companies today win by helping, not just selling,” he said. “Organizations that are engaging their customers early on in this buying cycle are helping by providing the information, the tools, and the community that these people are looking for when they’re researching businesses, products and services.”
Jason Becker, Caterpillar’s Senior Manager of Growth Markets, reminisced on his 23 years with the company, and how he considers the relationship forged with the landscape industry as a key reason for CAT reaching its 100th anniversary this year.
“For me – don’t tell the other industries that we serve – but landscaping is my absolute favourite business that we engage with. Not because another industry is worse or better, it’s not because of what you do for the environment, it’s what you do for people and their lives,” Becker said. “This group, and our groups around the world that do what you do, are doing something that’s tangible and it makes a difference.”
When Caterpillar was growing into the smaller equipment business in the late ‘90s, the company realized there were a lot of customers they didn’t know.
“I’ll be the first to admit that many landscapers saw us drive right by them to go see someone that built a road, or worked in a quarry, or had 50 pieces of equipment,” Becker said. “Our people, and people that we work with did not see the landscaper that had one machine.”
Becker said that the partnership that began between Caterpillar and the CNLA in 2001 had a big impact on how CAT sees the landscape industry now. Through smaller machine offerings like skid steers, compact tractors and mini excavators, CAT experienced continual growth of a new type of customer base: individuals or businesses that own between 0 and 5 machines.
Becker highlighted a persistent, global trend of growth from the Landscaping Service Industry, which is projected to grow 6.7 per cent annually in the next five years.
“We’ve seen a lot of trends come and go. But very few trends tend to go up and up and up, even in challenging times. This business is growing and it’s valuable around the world.”
Through partnerships with landscape associations across North America, CAT learned that simply caring about the industry would be enough for the industry to then take care of itself.
“It’s not about trying to sell a product, it’s about trying to care about the industry, be a part of it, and be present,” he said. “And if you do that and you show up, things will work out very well for both. And these mutually beneficial relationships are what it’s all about.”
insights on leadership, diversity,
Jamie Aalbers, Growers Sector Speacialist jamie@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Nicole Xavier, Member Services & Administration Manager nicole@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centres, HR & PDC Speacialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centre, HR & PDC Speacialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centre, HR & PDC Speacialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Leslie Sison, Policy & Stakeholder Manager leslie@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca GOVERNMENT
Stuart Service, Media Coordinator stuart@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
and
BY EDITH OYOSORO
This January, the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association’s (CNLA) Professional Development Committee (PDC) introduced an interim attestation model to replace video submissions as the method to assess hands-on practical competence for the Certified Landscape Horticulturist Technician (CLHT) certification. This change is intended to simplify and streamline the certification process, while also maintaining industry standards.
Written tests will continue to be conducted online for the five CLHT modules: ornamental maintenance, turf maintenance, softscape installation, hardscape installation, and irrigation. This will allow candidates to complete the written exams for their certification at their convenience. Exam registration now covers up to a total of six written tests per module, with retake fees applying beyond this limit.
Hands-on practical competencies for each CLHT module requires candidates to secure an experienced professional to attest to their competency in performing the required landscape horticulture tasks to industry standards. To qualify as an attestor, professionals must complete the Attestor Registration Form and submit proof of qualifications to certification@cnla-acpp.ca.
Ongoing efforts aim to ensure a seamless transition and adoption of the attestation model for in-progress candidates and new registrants respectively.
To increase the awareness of the Landscape Horticulture Certification Program (LHCP), the CNLA and provincial associations will bring a larger presence to its target audience at trade shows, conferences and member engagement events. There will also be an increase in LHCP content shared on CNLA and provincial social media accounts, membership updates and newsletters. By highlighting the stories of member companies and their certified staff, the PDC aspires to demonstrate the merits of certification by showing its value in hiring and career advancement.
“This industry changes drastically and quickly based on trends, plant materials and infrastructure,” said Guy
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centre, HR & PDC Specialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Dowhy, owner of Dowhy Designs and Landscapes Inc. in Winnipeg, MB.
To stay on top of the industry’s continual evolution, he said that certification and re-certification with continuing education credits improves a landscape professional’s position in their company, in their industry, and “keeps our network connected.”
Leslie Sison, Policy & Stakeholder Manager leslie@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
“It keeps anybody in our industry up to date with best work practices, safety issues that might come up in the industry, as well as learning what new technologies are out there,” Dowhy said. “The public perception of who we are is really changing. If we want to learn how to be better environmental stewards instead of just having the nicest yards, then it takes constant education. And that is what the certification program supports.”
Leslie Sison, Policy & Stakeholder Manager leslie@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Stuart Service, Media Coordinator stuart@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
For more details or certification assistance, visit the LHCP website, cnlagetcertified.ca, or e-mail certification@cnla-acpp.ca.
Edith Oyosoro, Policy Coordinator, COPF & CNCI edith@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
BY JAMIE AALBERS
In mid-February, 14 nursery growers from six different provinces spent a week visiting seven nurseries in Pistoia in the Tuscany region of Italy, and also attended the MyPlant & Garden trade show in Milan.
Brea Beck, Jared Aubin, Nick and Jeff Winkelmolen, Ans Mertens, Jason and Jennifer Rekker, Mario Cramerstetter, Alexander Godfrey, Stuart Gillies, Simon Porter, Edwina Wegener, Shelby Sherwick and Stacey Gibb proudly represented Canada and learned so much from our Italian hosts. Each farm welcomed us with open arms and shared how as growers, they can supply nursery stock to all countries in the EU, Great Britain, eastern Europe and Russia.
Stops included Zelari, Innocenti E Mangoni, Baronti, Vettori, Az. Agr. Cinelli Luca, Vannucci and Giorgio Tesi Group. Truck loading was of particular interest to many, as were the 70-year-old olive trees in pots that many growers have on site for landscape contracts. The ease of shipping to other EU countries was equally impressive, with most loads requiring no phytosanitary or movement certificates, as the EU regulates pests and diseases as if they were one country.
The tour would not have happened with the gracious support of Sandro Rottin, an independent sales representative based in northern Italy and a familiar name for those involved in the International Garden Centre Association. Sandro set up the tours, guided us through the region, translated for us, and found us the best places to eat. What they say about the food in Italy is absolutely true!
BY LESLIE SISON
The CNLA Government Relations Committee is proactively engaging government officials to highlight options to help businesses protect themselves in these uncertain times. The major concern in the coming weeks will be the potential for retaliatory tariffs on goods that Canadian growers import from America.
We are urging for exemptions for nursery inputs from any retaliatory tariff list. We are proposing that government officials consider modifying or introducing new tax credits or
financial supports to help offset the financial burden on affected businesses.
According to 2023 Statistics Canada data, Canadian nursery stock exports to the U.S. totalled $44.9 million. That total is an $8 million increase from 2022, indicating that the market remained strong despite challenges such as losses in boxwood exports. Overall, the Canadian nursery sector generated $749.6 million in total sales in 2023, with exports making up 6 percent of total nursery sales—almost exclusively to the U.S.
Given the phytosanitary regulations and bulk weight of nursery stock, exporting to markets beyond the U.S., such as in Europe or Asia, remains a challenging option. While alternative suppliers exist in Europe, such as farm machinery from the Netherlands and Germany, growers have indicated that delivery times are slow. Being a seasonal-based industry means that even minor delays are costly.
For some inputs, finding a new supplier is simply not feasible in the short term, making any potential tariffs particularly disruptive. We anticipate meeting with government officials to express our concerns, and to develop solutions and support for our member businesses.
CNLA has been engaging members to ensure we are appropriately recording their points of view. From our members, we have heard several concerns; among them are:
• Prices for the year are already set, making it extremely difficult to adjust to offset tariff costs.
• Trees, plants, and landscaping services are often considered discretionary spending—if tariffs negatively impact the economy, consumers may reduce spending on nursery products.
• Increased costs from tariffs could drive both suppliers and consumers away from purchasing
Canadian-grown nursery stock. A major equipment supplier is halting all quotes to farmers pending the outcome of the tariff discussions.
Jamie Aalbers, Growers Sector Speacialist jamie@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Nicole Xavier, Member Services & Administration Manager nicole@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
• If the American market contracts due to tariffs, excess nursery stock could flood the Canadian market and reduce margins for domestic sales. The impacts of tariffs may lead to lower sales, which would lead to a need to reduce labour costs. Further recommendations include removing interprovincial trade barriers, streamlining domestic regulations, and launching “Buy Canadian” campaigns to encourage domestic consumption. Additionally, businesses have emphasized the need for expanded disaster relief, assistance in accessing new markets, loan protection, liquidity support, and greater investment in domestic businesses to reduce reliance on imported critical inputs.
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centres, HR & PDC Speacialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centre, HR & PDC Speacialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Addressing these issues would provide relief and can bolster long-term competitiveness and sustainability in the sector. CNLA will continue to monitor the situation and advocate for our members.
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centre, HR & PDC Speacialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Leslie Sison, Policy & Stakeholder Manager leslie@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
BY ANNE KADWELL
Get ready for an extraordinary experience at the 2025 Garden Centres Canada (GCC) Summit, happening this summer on July 6–9 in and around the City of Winnipeg, Manitoba. This event will be an inspiring gathering for garden centre professionals, industry leaders, and enthusiasts alike. With an exciting lineup of garden retail tours, workshops, and presentations, this year’s Summit is bound to be an unforgettable experience.
We’ve secured a special group room block at the luxurious Inn at the Forks, conveniently located in the heart of Winnipeg’s bustling Forks Market district. Detailed booking information will be available on the registration page on March 12, so be sure to act fast once registration opens!
On July 6, the GCC Summit kicks off with an elegant evening networking reception at the Solstice Room at the Smith restaurant, located inside the Inn at the Forks.
The following morning on July 7, we’ll hop aboard the bus for a day of exploration as we visit six inspiring garden centres, each showcasing unique ideas, sizes and innovations. The day concludes with dinner and a handson workshop with Brands In Bloom, at the gorgeous Lacoste Garden Centre.
July 8 begins with insightful morning presentations, followed by visits to more garden centres, concluding with a delightful dinner at Jeffries Nurseries Ltd., where attendees will connect with peers in a relaxed green setting.
The final day of the Summit on July 9 starts with a morning of thought-provoking presentations, headlined by our keynote speaker, Jason Taylor, who will present “Let’s Think Differently: The Self-Aware Leader and How It Drives Growth in Our Company.”
Jamie Aalbers, Growers Sector Speacialist jamie@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
The GCC 2025 Summit is designed to help independent garden retailers across the country learn, connect, and grow. Whether you’re looking to spark new ideas, forge meaningful industry connections, or deepen your knowledge, this event is packed with opportunities to advance your career and business.
Nicole Xavier, Member Services & Administration Manager nicole@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Follow the CNLA on Instagram, and like us on Facebook to be notified immediately when Registration opens March 12.
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centres, HR & PDC Speacialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca
Anne Kadwell, Garden Centre, HR & PDC Speacialist anne@cnla-acpp.ca www.cnla.ca HUMAN
We extend our gratitude to our Title Sponsor, TerraLink, a leading manufacturer and retailer of crop input products in Western Canada. Their support makes this incredible event possible.
For over 50 years, TerraLink Horticulture has been an integral part of the Canadian agricultural and horticultural landscape. Founded in 1973 in British Columbia’s Fraser Valley, the company began as a small fertilizer blending plant to supply local dairy, vegetable, and berry farms under the name Coast Agri. Over the decades, TerraLink has expanded to serve a wide range of industries, including commercial greenhouse, turf, nursery, landscape, home & garden, and organic markets, while remaining 100% Canadianowned and operated.
Today, TerraLink is a leading fertilizer manufacturer, producing
both liquid and granular products tailored to the unique needs of Canadian growers. With state-ofthe-art facilities and a commitment to innovation, TerraLink formulates high-quality crop nutrition solutions that support sustainable agriculture and maximize plant health.
Beyond manufacturing and supplying crop inputs, TerraLink is distinguished by its unparalleled agronomic expertise. Nearly everyone on its sales team holds a degree in agronomy or a related science, ensuring that customers receive knowledgeable, sciencebacked recommendations. Whether supporting independent garden
centres across Canada, landscapers, or large-scale growing operations, TerraLink’s team is dedicated to providing expert guidance and targeted solutions.
With five locations across Western Canada and over 150 employees, TerraLink takes pride in supporting the businesses and communities that feed and beautify the nation. As a proud Canadian company, TerraLink is dedicated to supporting growers with expert guidance and quality products, building lasting partnerships that drive their success.
• Each card has a 100% markup (wholesale to retail).
• A 56-pocket spinner can generate over $10K/year.
• Greeting cards never expire—no markdowns!
FROM PAPER E. CLIPS
Paper E. Clips, leaders in Canadian stationery curation for almost 40 years show you how to increase sales year-round.
It used to be that the garden centre was the place you’d go to on Victoria Day weekend. You would stand in line with everyone else, trolly packed with annuals, soil and a few shrubs to get the garden ready for summer. Nowadays, the garden centre has evolved into a place where we look for outdoor furniture, shop for design accents, enjoy coffee with a friend, and, of course, to pick up the perfect gift.
Into that mix should be the greeting cards needed to make purchasing of a gift complete.
At a retail price of $6.95 or more the average purchase of three greeting cards per sale adds up quickly. Coupled with that greeting cards do not need watering or sunlight. In fact, that is the last thing they need! On a relatively small footprint of less than 2ft square the value per square foot makes them one of the most profitable things in your store.
We have found that cards bring customers in, engage them and often lead to larger sales of other items.
The best part is, we’ve made it easy for you!
At Paper E. Clips we focus on offering a top selling curation of unique and design-forward greeting
cards from the USA, Canada, the UK and Europe. Not only do we bring the best in class to Canada with award winning greeting card brands, but we’re also passionate about bringing you and your customers the most sustainable and environmentally friendly products, something we find customers are looking for.
More than 95 per cent of the greeting cards in our collection are both plastic-free and printed on FSC Certified and recycled papers.
You can shop our cards for yourself (www.papereclips.com) using our online portal or opt for a more ‘hands off’ model where your sales representative creates a custom collection specific to your needs. With little interruption to your operation, our experienced merchandisers can create custom collections with your store in mind. All subject to your approval, of course.
Our reps will continuously service your store throughout the year, bring their expertise in curation and fulfillment frequently offering you new designs, simultaneously updating your selection to capture your shoppers’ attention.
We currently work with Indigo Books and Music, Mastermind and a selection of independently owned grocery store and boutiques and many garden centres. All of them have found that Paper E. Clips can provide beautiful products in a timely fashion and that working with us
is a customer-focused experience. Greeting cards might not have been something you have considered, but you should.
For over 35 years, Paper E. Clips Inc. has been a leading Canadian wholesaler and distributor of distinctive greeting cards and giftware, known for design excellence.
Interested? Let’s connect!
Website: www.papereclips.com
Phone: (416) 510-1494
E-Mail: hello@papereclips.com
Stan Kochanoff passed away suddenly on November 21, 2024. Born in Niagara Falls, ON, Stan was a graduate of the NPC School of Horticulture, Cornell University and the Technical University of Nova Scotia (now Dalhousie University). Stan is a Past President of Landscape Nova Scotia and the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association from 1985-1986. Throughout his more than 50 years of dedication to the horticulture industry, Stan received numerous honours from the Canadian landscape industry, the NPC Alumni Association and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee medal from the province of Nova Scotia for his contributions to the community. He was a co-chair of Communities in Bloom in Windsor, a national-level judge, and a benefactor who has donated trees to the Hants County community rink. In 2022, he was commissioned to help to rescue 30 vandalized trees at the 16-acre Halifax Public Gardens. And just this past summer, Stan led a project for the Green Cities Foundation at Hope Blooms in Halifax, NS.
Henry Heuver, born Henricus Joannes Heuver, was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. He passed away on February 13, 2025.
Born on September 30, 1936, in Olst, Holland, Henry was the third of twelve children. He worked on his family farm and studied agriculture before working in France and Holland. In 1963, he immigrated to Canada and joined his brother Tony in Alberta in 1964 to start Foothills Landscaping. He later founded Foothills Nurseries, now one of Calgary’s most successful familyowned landscaping businesses.
Henry made a lasting impact on the ornamental horticulture industry. He served as President of both the Landscape Alberta Nursery Trades Association (1978 to 1979) and the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (1987 to 1988), Governor of the American Association of Nurseries, Canadian representative for the North American Plant Protection Organization, and Chairman of the Canadian Horticultural Council. Through Foothills Landscaping, Henry’s legacy lives on in greenery across Calgary.
Antonius (Tony) Heuver passed away on December 27, 2024, at 89. A devoted husband, father, Opa, and visionary entrepreneur, his impact on family, community, and industry will be cherished forever.
Born on June 1, 1935, Tony emigrated from the Netherlands to Canada in 1958 as a farm worker, driven by hard work, determination, and integrity. His wife, Johanna (Anne) Heuver, joined him in 1964, and together they built a home, family, and business that touched many lives.
In the early 1960s, Tony and his brother Henry founded Foothills Landscaping. In 1970, they divided the company, and Tony established Eagle Lake Nurseries. These businesses have since grown into five companies, shaping Alberta’s horticulture industry. Tony eagerly shared his expertise, leading industry initiatives and serving as President of Landscape Alberta from 1987 to 1988. Through his vision and passion, he cultivated not just plants but also a culture of professionalism, innovation, and community spirit. Tony legacy will continue to flourish in the lives he touched and the seeds he planted.
Landscaping can be a beautiful business, but you need a versatile machine that can do the dirty work. The 184 G-Tier Compact Wheel Loader has the power and precision to help you shape the land, carry big pallet loads, and handle heavy piles. Consider it your all-purpose paintbrush.
Cruise control
Set speed with the touch of a button for optimized runtime
quiet
Low-noise operation
ideal for noise-restricted environments
max. velocity
305 km/h
Featuring nearly double the power of the BGA 86
Compact ergonomic design
Highly maneuverable and built with operator comfort in mind
The most powerful battery handheld blower in the STIHL lineup is compact and capable of clearing wet debris and leaves.
The BGA 250 features a max velocity of 305 km/h and 26 Newtons of force, coming in at nearly twice the power of the BGA 86. The compact, lightweight design and ergonomic shape of the blower tube allows for comfortable operation. The BGA 250 features a convenient cruise control function, weather-resistant design and a reduced-noise operation, producing only 60dB(A). This powerhouse handheld blower is an excellent value for professionals and homeowners alike.