Spring Newsbrief_2014 by Canadian Nursery Landscape Association

AIPH Spring Congress Report: London, UK

Green Industry News

New Turf Producers Sub-committee

Discounted Home & Auto Insurance

It Takes a Village

Spring 2014 Vol. 23 Issue 2

What’s inside: •

How to attract and keep the best employees •

The value of Red Seal certification •

Planting a promise •

What are shoppers looking for? •

Recycle like a pro •

Immigration and the effect on ornamental horticulture sales

The theme of collaboration is woven through many of the articles in this month’s issue. This spring, let’s remember that we are all on the same team, reaching for the same goals to promote a prosperous, professional and ethical industry. Photo curtesy of Landscape Ontario: 2013 St. James Park Day of Service

Connecting with municipalities By: Jamey Smith, Landscape Industry Certified, Red Seal, Chair of Atlantic Certification The Sustainable Communities Conference and Trade Show (SCC) hosted by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) finished off this February, giving me the feeling that the landscape trade will be in growing demand and faced with new and innovative challenges never experienced before. If you think that you are in the industry and therefore up-to-date on the latest urban developments, think again. The future of cities are going to change from the dense populated, vehicle orientated layout as it is today, to a people friendly neighbourhood

environment with public transportation being the main way of getting in, out and around the town. Streets will be transformed into pedestrian and bicycle pedways, green space will flourish and be a staple in the community. The message was clear; as long as we can dream about making the world, country, city, community, neighbourhood, or the street we live on a better place to live, then we will, don’t stop dreaming. I had the opportunity to hear representatives from across the country voice their concerns about existing infrastructure renovations and repair. As well as discuss innovations such as rebuilding existing sewer systems into a usable energy source; making public transportation more convenient and economical to use; ideas on how we could encourage people to find

Continued on page six...

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

ASSOCIATION NEWS EXECUTIVE BOARD: President Past President First Vice President Second Vice President

Member Services & Insurance Chair

Christene LeVatte, CLP - NS Bill Stensson - ON Rene Thiebaud, CLP - ON Gerald Boot, CLP - ON

Treasurer Bruce Hunter, CLT, CLD, CLP - BC

DIRECTORS: LNS Representative LOHTA Representative BCLNA Representative Human Resources Chair Public Relations Chair Research Chair Government Relations AQPP Representative NAPPO Chair LNB Representative Garden Centre Canada Chair Certification Chair Landscape Canada Chair LA Representative LM Representative Growers Canada Chair LNL Representative SNLA Representative

Robin Godfrey - NS Alan White - ON Michael Kato - BC Harold Deenen, CLP - ON Bill Hardy, CLP - BC Vic Krahn, CLT - SK Michael Murray - NL Sylvie Deslauriers - QC Michel-Antoine Renaud - ON Kevin Nauss, CLP - NB Anthony O’Neill - NL Jeannette French, CLP - NL Phil Paxton, CLT, CLP - AB Anita Heuver - AB David Hinton, CLP - MB John Byland - BC Krista Russell - NL Norm Altrogge - SK

STAFF: Executive Director Victor Santacruz, CAE, CLP victor@cnla-acpp.ca Manager of Industry Human Resources Joel Beatson, CAE, CLP and Professional Development joel@cnla-acpp.ca Growers Manager Rita Weerdenburg rita@cnla-acpp.ca Landscape and Garden Centres Julia Ricottone, EP Priorities Manager julia@cnla-acpp.ca Certification Coordinator Laura Brinton laura@cnla-acpp.ca Minor Use/IPM Coordinator Peter Isaacson, B.Sc., MPM peter@cnla-acpp.ca Member Services Coordinator Christine Finn christine@cnla-acpp.ca Communications Coordinator Anne Bowering anne@cnla-acpp.ca Executive Assistant Cheryl Gall cheryl@cnla-acpp.ca Member Services and Chelsea Ten Broeck Commodities Assistant chelsea@cnla-acpp.ca Member Services Assitant Samantha Thomson sam@cnla-acpp.ca Printed on recycled paper using vegetable based inks by: Harmony Printing, 50 Woodbine Downs Boulevard, Toronto, ON M9W 5R2

Kubota and CNLA sign new sponsorship agreement We are excited to announce that Kubota Canada is CNLA’s official website sponsor and Online Directory sponsor (http:// directory.cnlaacpp.ca). Kubota’s continued support of the association helps to maintain the valuable programs and initiatives that we offer our members.

Attract the best staff with employee loyalty programs By: Chelsea Ten Broeck, Member Services An efficient way to employ skilled seasonal workers is to retain your employees from year to year. Retaining skilled and existing employees is important, if not more important than hiring new employees as it will also save you on recruitment and training costs. Existing employees are familiar with the company’s methodology of work, have been trained up to the company’s standard and have passed the crew’s initial review. Be the employer of choice by offering additional incentives to returning employees; whether it is a higher wage, educational and training opportunities, or by providing access to benefits the employee would not receive without your company. CNLA offers many member benefit programs that can be taken advantage of at the employee level. The Mark’s discount card, through Imagewear, offers members a 15% discount on workwear and up to 20% off specific items in the member only discount catalogue. Discounts range from savings on CSA approved work boots, high visibility clothing and rainwear, as well as savings on other selected merchandise. The discount allows your workers to save their hard earned money when it comes to suiting up for work.

an incentive on travel costs, your employees will enjoy driving into work knowing that they are saving on the litre. Utilizing programs such as gasoline incentives or covering transit costs can have a direct positive effect on your employee’s bottom line and their willingness to attend work. Another solution to retain or reward employees is to offer a comprehensive and flexible insurance plan. HortProtect is tailored to suit industry needs specifically and offers group rates on property and casualty insurance through Marsh Canada, as well as health and life insurance through the Investment Guild. Employees have access to the preferred group insurance rates available through CNLA, which are cost effective, comprehensive and exclusive for owners and full-time employees. Programs include Group Home and Auto insurance and Group RRSPs. Offering incentives for returning employees that build as their seniority does is important to retaining skilled workers. Incentives are linked to the rewards and recognition concept, which are good motivators to keep employees and keep them working successfully. Other common benefits that you can provide to your employees are a contribution to a retirement savings plan, career development through tuition support and training, as well as other perks such as taking them out for ice cream after a hard days work to show your appreciation. Spending a few minutes planning your retention strategy can be a valuable exercise that saves your company money and stress in the long run. Let your employees know how valuable they are to you! If you have a suggestion for a savings program, let us know! The Member Services Team is always on the lookout for programs that would be of value to our members and their employees. Send suggestions to Christine Finn at memberservices@cnla-acpp.ca.

The Imperial Oil – Esso and Petro-Canada fuel card programs not only ensure your piece of mind when it comes to your fleet’s fuel purchases, but they can also be used as an employee incentive program. Travelling to and from work can be an added cost that is getting increasingly pricey. By providing

Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes 7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@cnla-acpp.ca| www.cnla-acpp.ca

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

ASSOCIATION NEWS AIPH spring meeting report Save the Date! Representatives from organisations representing growers of ornamental horticultural crops met in London, UK in April to share information and ideas that will strengthen the position of the sector in the future. During the Spring Meeting of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) most countries reported difficult trading conditions throughout 2013 but there is optimism for improvement in 2014. The meeting followed the AIPH International Green City Conference, which had taken place the previous day. The Green City Committee heard presentations from many members on initiatives to promote green planting in urban areas. The meeting also received a presentation summarising the importance of plant breeders rights and the importance of the work of the AIPH Novelty Protection Committee in arguing the position of growers as international agreements are formulated and as individual countries implement them. Concluding the meeting, AIPH President, Mr. Vic Krahn, re-emphasised the value in sharing information between growers across the world and in working together to achieve our common goals. Commenting after the meeting he said, “There really is no other forum like this for the growers of the world to come together and learn from each other. All members have learned something new this week in London and have new ideas and initiatives to try out in their own countries.” The next meeting for AIPH members is the Annual Congress which will take place in Qingdao, China from 8-11 September 2014. AIPH is a co-ordinating body representing horticultural producers’ organizations all over the world. It was set up in Switzerland in 1948 to stimulate the international marketing of flowers, plants and landscaping services. Currently membership consists of 26 organisations from 19 countries. For further details visit www.aiph.org.

CanWest Hort Show October 1 & 2, 2014 Vancouver Convention Centre, BC CanWest is Western Canada’s premier landscape and nursery trade show. See the hottest new products, source new suppliers, and network with colleagues in person. CanWest features a top-notch three day education program. Take advantage of show specials and a chance to win great prizes! CanWest is moving in 2015 – so

let’s celebrate this last year in downtown Vancouver before it moves to the heart of BC’s horticulture industry in Abbotsford ( just 90 minutes from Vancouver). Full details available soon at www.canwesthortshow.com. Interested in Exhibiting? Call Suvan Breen to reserve your space: 604-575-3516 or sbreen@bclna.com.

PREFERRED GRouP INSuRANCE RAtES

Home and auto insurance coverage available exclusively for owners and full-time employees of CNLA member companies.

Obtain an instant quotation by calling toll-free:

1 877 476 6727 Please note that automobile insurance is not available in provinces where government automobile plans exist.

To request a quote, please visit Marsh’s Private Client Services online at:

Insurance program brokered by Marsh Canada Limited

www.marsh.ca/quote

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

ASSOCIATION NEWS Discounted Home and Auto Insurance CNLA is excited to announce the new home and auto insurance rates available through Marsh Canada. Being part of your provincial association grants both your company, your full-time employees and their families highly discounted rates on home and auto insurance. Since the official program launch in February, CNLA has received numerous reports of members switching to Marsh because they offer the lowest rates. Encourage your staff to receive a quote and see if they should consider switching today. Attract and retain high quality employees by offering them valuable benefits like discounted Group Home and Auto Insurance. Marsh Canada handles the property and casualty insurance portion of CNLA’s HortProtect Insurance program. They understand the unique needs of industry and tailor their programs accordingly. Marsh has made it easy to promote this to your employees by preparing information packages that consist of launch letters, brochures and posters. Visit www.cnlaacpp.ca/hortprotect for more information.

Location British Columbia Alberta Saskatchewan Manitoba Ontario Québec New Brunswick Nova Scotia P.E.I Newfoundland Yukon N.W.T. Nunavut

The program is administered by Marsh Canada Limited and underwritten by Novex Insurance Company (Intact Insurance Company in Quebec). Features include:

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Preferred group discounted rates. Monthly payment plan. 24-hour emergency claims service. Optional accident forgiveness. Emergency babysitting, nursing, and homemaking services.

Preferred group rates can potentially mean hundreds of dollars in savings on your insurance costs and the only way to reduce your costs is to compare rates. Please call 1 877 476 6727 and speak with a licensed insurance broker at Marsh’s Private Client Services or request a quote online at www.marsh.ca/quote. Please note that automobile insurance is not available in provinces where government automobile insurance plans exist. Except in Quebec where the service fee is 1.75%.

Distracted driving coast to coast Almost every province and territory now has some form of Distracted Driving legislation, all include varying levels of fines and about

What is banned? Hand-held devices, plus novice drivers using handsfree equipment Holding or viewing a communications device, reading, writing and any other distraction Hand-held communication equipment, plus novice drivers going hands-free Hand-held electronic devices Hand-held wireless communication devices Hand-held devices that include a phone function, plus using it hands-free Hand-held electronic devices Hand-held cell phones, plus text messaging on any device Hand-held wireless communication devices Hand-held cell phones, plus text messaging on any device Hand-held devices for talking, texting and emailing, plus graduated license holders can’t go hands-free Hand-held electronic devices None

half include demerit points (see chart for details). While those are the responsibility of the driver, the cost to a business could be even higher. Your insurance could deny drivers with multiple infractions on your renewal. Staff could be in an accident in the company vehicle - with that shiny new logo on all sides. Does your company provide drivers training to employees? If not, it is probably worth considering. The small cost of training is minimal to the true cost of an accident. CNLA has partnered with Marsh Canada to provide discounted access to summer and winter driving courses. To sign up, visit www.cnla-acpp.ca/driverstraining.

New National Turf Producers subcommittee CNLA has recently formed a national committee focused on the needs of turf producers across Canada. Currently operating as a subcommittee under Growers Canada, this group has been holding monthly conference calls in 2014 to develop a national strategy for the sector. Representatives from a number of provinces currently sit on the committee, which is chaired by Sean Moher of Manderley Turf Products Inc. Individuals from Turf Producers International, the Nursery Sod Growers Association of Ontario, and other key groups also participate regularly to help share information. The subcommittee is concentrating on two key items for 2014: finding funding opportunities for members in the sector, and researching and communicating the benefits of turf. Please stay tuned for details in CNLA’s communications. If you have any questions about the Turf Producer Subcommittee, or would like to participate, please contact Julia Ricottone at the CNLA office.

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

ASSOCIATION NEWS Dalhousie University), and Deborah Preston (B.Sc. Horticulture Science, University of Guelph). Collectively, these four individuals contribute over 100 years of industry experience to Murray’s Landscape Services. “This is a real milestone for our staff and company,” said Michael Murray, CEO. Murray’s is very proud of everyone who has achieved their Red Seal and encourages all landscape horticultural firms across Canada to look for Red Seal Certified staff, which will help promote professionalism within the industry.

The importance of Red Seal Red Seal endorsement is recognized by employers as a standard of excellence and indicates that the certificate holder has met the interprovincial knowledge, skills and work experience/competency standards established by the industry. CNLA strongly advocates for companies to encourage their staff to pursue the Red Seal designation. Not only will it raise the level of professionalism in the industry, this credential facilitates mobility within a company, between like companies, across different sectors, and throughout Canada. This endorsement allows the holder to work anywhere in Canada where the trade is designated without having to write further examinations. The Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program is a partnership between the Government of Canada (Human Resources Skills Development Canada (HRSDC)), the provinces and the territories. The program is administered in each province and territory under the guidance of the Canadian Council of Directors of Apprenticeship (CCDA), HRSDC. Each province and territory has an appointed Director of Apprenticeship for this purpose. Check out the Red Seal FAQ at www.cnla-acpp.ca/redsealfaq. Murray’s Landscape Services Ltd. operating out of Portugal Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador celebrated the graduation of the first class of Red Seal Certified Landscape Horticulturists. On staff there are currently four Red Seal graduates, they include Lorna Hogan (B.Sc. Horticulture Science, University of Guelph), Michael Murray (B.Sc. Horticulture Science, McGill University), Myles Whitaker (B.Sc. Horticulture Science,

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Canadian Nursery Landscape Association / Association Canadienne des Pépiniéristes et des Paysagistes 7856 Fifth Line South, Milton, ON L9T 2X8 | Toll Free: 1-888-446-3499 59436-1 CNLA.indd 1 | Toll Free Fax: 1-866-833-8603 | Email: info@cnla-acpp.ca | www.cnla-acpp.ca

5 4/24/14 3:49 PM

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

ASSOCIATION NEWS Continued from page one... alternatives for transit rather than motorized vehicles, and more. I was also speaking to an engineer about how his municipality is working on carbon emission reduction targets and the benefit of green roof systems. With the ever-changing advancements in the landscape, the green industry has to keep up with the latest trends and developments. There is no better way than uniting as one with the same interests in common. The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) is our hub. I have been benefiting from the services of CNLA for many years now and would have thought everyone knows about the association. At this FCM Conference I had a chance to talk to many people directly involved in their municipalities. To my surprise, many of the attendees had never heard of CNLA. I should not be surprised because this was the first I had heard of FCM and they have been around for many years as well. I guess we pay attention to what is around us and interests us.

at an FCM meeting, get in touch with your provincial association. The next FCM Annual Conference and Trade Show is happening May 30 to June 2 in Niagara Falls, Ontario, with approximately 1,500 delegates in attendance. Together we can raise the bar and everyone will benefit from the outcome.

1 Including Landscape Industry

Certified in municipal project specifications and tenders, which will raise the bar for workmanship and give more value per municipal dollar.

2 The importance of green

infrastructure in municipal planning. Waste water management, rain water harvesting, tree planting, etc.

bulbs, to ensure big, beautiful flowers in the spring. Jamey spoke to many people from across the country, including Charlottetown’s Mayor, Clifford Lee!

Planting a promise

FCM represents 2,000 municipalities that reach 80% of the population of Canada. I had the chance to talk to fellow attendees about CNLA and what it has done and is doing for the landscape industry. Most importantly I had the chance to explain Landscape Canada’s position on Landscape Industry Certification & Standards and also the Landscape Horticulturist Red Seal Program. I explained how CNLA and the municipalities could work together to improve the quality of work performed, safety standards, and support for the qualified contractors. FCM reaches out and is in close contact with the decision makers of municipalities. We need to educate these decision makers about our industry, what we do and what we stand for. I believe that CNLA can increase their presence with FCM by attending more conferences, writing articles for their members, and speaking at events. If you are interested in representing CNLA

Here are some discussion ideas for the next time you are in contact with the leaders and decision makers of your local municipality:

Students and teachers participating in Planting a Promise, a new program run by BC Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation, are experiencing the rewards of growing their own daffodils. The program started last fall as a pilot in 110 classrooms in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. Teachers participating in the program were given a kit containing a guide on how to plant the bulbs and incorporate them with their curriculum. VanNoort’s Nursery in Langley supplied the program with 3,920 extra-large King Alfred

“We thought a program like this would be a perfect way for students to learn about the life cycle of plants and what they need to grow, but also a great way for them to get their hands dirty and learn some gardening skills,” said Lindsay Babineau, Executive Director of BC Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation. “The most exciting part for them is knowing that the bulb they plant in the ground holds the promise of beautiful flowers, which they will look forward to in the spring.” Teachers and students planted the daffodil bulbs in the fall on the school grounds, observing the bulbs before planting and recording their progress as they grew. Finally, in the spring the flowers have bloomed for everyone to enjoy. With so many learning opportunities from such a simple concept, teachers and students are enthusiastically participating in the program. Thank you to all the CNLA members that partnered to make this possible. Planting a Promise is managed by BC Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation, a nonprofit working to bring BC’s agriculture to schools throughout the province. For more information on AITC and their programs visit www.aitc.ca/bc

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

The Innovation Report New guide to container nursery crop fertilization Scientists at Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) are helping Ontario nursery growers save money and protect the environment through the identification of optimal fertilizer rates for commonly-grown nursery crops. In collaboration with nursery growers in the Niagara Region and throughout Ontario, Dr. Youbin Zheng (Vineland’s Environmental Horticulture Chair and University of Guelph Associate Professor), Mary Jane Clark (Vineland’s Senior Research Technician, Environmental Horticulture) and Erin Agro (Vineland’s Graduate Student, Horticultural Production Systems) are discovering the best fertilization practices for container nursery crop production.

help growers optimize their fertilization strategies and minimize environmental impacts from nutrient runoff,” says Dr. Zheng. Vineland’s industry-focused research creates impactful results for the Canadian horticulture industry. For more information on this research program, please contact: Dr. Youbin Zheng at 905-562-0320 x765, youbin.zheng@ vinelandresearch.com

“From this project, we learned that additional research, including more fertilizer types, plant species, growing substrate and different climate regions, is needed to

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“I’m very happy to have been involved in this research these past two years,” says Chris Pieper, owner of Pieper Nurseries in Dorchester, Ontario. “A robust fertilization program means cost savings by using only minimal amount of fertilizers while getting maximum results. It also helps promote a better environment.”

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“Sheridan Nurseries is pleased to support Dr. Zheng’s research on actual reallife production conditions at Ontario nurseries. The results help us to refine our fertilizer applications, thus reducing the environmental impact and costs,” says Bart Brusse, Container Manager for Sheridan Nurseries in Georgetown, Ontario. The team has found that each nursery crop has its own preference for controlled-release fertilizer rate. When the rate is increased, some shrubs, such as Rose of Sharon and PeeGee Hydrangea, show a significant increase in growth, others including Spirea show moderately increased growth while some (Dwarf Winged Euonymus) do not respond to fertilizer rate. Additional results can be found in a new comprehensive guide located on Vineland’s website at: www.vinelandresearch.com

federal-provincial-territorial initiative, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program (CAAP), Landscape Ontario, and Agrium Advanced Technologies.

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Scan for offer details. Visit CatResourceCenter.com/CNLA to download your discount card. *To redeem your credit: This card must be presented to your local Cat dealer at time of quote. This offer applies to new Cat machines and select new Work Tool attachments purchased by Canadian Nursery Landscape Association members before December 31, 2014. Limit of one credit per new Cat machine and one credit per new Work Tool purchased. Offer available on new quotes only and may be combined with published Caterpillar Building Construction Product Division U.S. and Canadian national offers only. Contact your local dealer for details and to see the complete discount pricing available per model. Subject to credit approval. Valid only at Cat dealer locations in the U.S. and Canada. Subject to change without prior notice. Contact membershipservices@cnla-acpp.ca or call 1-888-446-3499 for a CNLA membership confirmation letter. © 2014 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, BUILT FOR IT, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow,” the “Power Edge” trade dress as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

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CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

Industry Trend Report Insights and opportunities Significant trends are at work shaping the future of the ornamental horticulture industry and affecting businesses that grow and retail plants, and sell related products and services. With nearly three decades of relevant experience in the Canadian ornamental horticulture market, MARCON+ZRB examines these trends and reports on what they mean to you and your business.

Trend No: 3 Immigration and the effect on ornamental horticulture sales What We Know

Immigration is an essential component of Canada’s population growth as approximately 225,000 immigrants are accepted into Canada every year1. The 2011 Census revealed that 66% of the 2,000,000 people added to the Canadian population since 2006 were immigrants.

an immigration population leads to a 0.66 per cent increase in housing demand. 72% of immigrants own their homes, up from 68% in 2001. Immigrants are buying homes more quickly than ever before. Also, this group now is involved in high-growth industries such as engineering, construction and skilled trades or are arriving as investors. The proportion of immigrants living in ownership accommodation rises quickly from 17% six months after arrival to 55% four years after arrival. From 2001 to 2008, immigrants bought 30% of the homes purchased in Vancouver and Toronto. This represents approximately 122,000 units, including about 40,000 newly built units. The immigration effect on housing is most pronounced in Vancouver, though it receives fewer immigrants each year than Montreal or Toronto. British-Columbia gets the highest proportion of Asian immigrants – 22% come from China – the group that is by far the most likely to buy real estate. A significant portion of these was in the luxury home category. Since 2001 the annual ratio of immigration by continent of last residence has been reasonably consistent3: 1. 15% from the Americas 2. 17% from Europe 3. 15% from Africa 4. 53% from Asia

The total number of immigrants in Canada:

• • • • •

Canada: 6,452,305 (19.2%) Ontario: 3,516,875 (27.3) British Columbia: 1,170,140 (26.5%) Quebec: 900,475 (11.3%) Alberta: 554,130 (15%)

More than one quarter of the population in Ontario and in British Columbia is made up of immigrants. This market is significant and needs to be considered. Immigration has an impact on the Canadian economy, particularly in selected regions of the country, like large metropolitan areas. Sixty-per cent of investor-class immigrants, those who bring money, business skills and experience to Canada, settle in Vancouver. Those in the skilled worker class account for the largest number of immigrants to British Columbia. 1

Source: Statistics Canada 2011

According to the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s Housing Demand Projection study2, a one per cent increase in

Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation

Source: Statistics Canada 2011

What We Don’t Know

Canada’s population is growing with skilled immigrants, many of whom have the means to own a home, or are about to enter into the housing market. This raises some important questions the landscape service provider and garden retail industry needs to answer, because this group could become an important and sustainable purchaser of value added products and services. Simply assuming that garden-related purchases by diversity markets will follow similar purchase patterns exhibited in the past by demographic segments like Boomers, and Gen X and Y, may be misleading. From the 2013 Quebec Omnibus Ornamental Horticulture Survey4 (conducted annually between 2010 and 2013) it was determined that 55% of Quebecers

purchased annual flowers, shrubs, trees and other outdoor plants during spring, compared to 63% in 2010, a significant decline. We simply don’t know about the rest of the country… 4

Marcon Quebec Omnibus Study

Could we benefit from better serving the immigrants in order to stabilize or increase our sales and our profits? Are immigrants more or less likely to purchase ornamental horticulture products and services? If, for example they purchase less, is this because the industry is not selling the right products and services? Or, are we not communicating properly to those markets? If they purchase products, where do they prefer to shop, in a big box store or do they feel more welcomed when visiting a specialized retailer? Does economic status have an influence on the diversity market’s decision-making process? What is the impact on luxury home purchases in Canadian big cities like Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal on regional plant, product and service sales? What is the importance of the trend to outdoor living spaces on different ethnic cultures? If there were more local do-ityourself educational sessions targeted to the new homeowner needs of immigrant populations, would that have an impact on demand? Do immigrants buy more or less plants for traditional Canadian plant-giving holidays such as Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Easter? Is it customary to give plants as gifts? Are there important cultural dates where flowers and plants figure prominently and could be an important sales opportunity? Are they more or less interested in vegetable gardening than ornamental flowers? If they prefer vegetable gardening, will they be more interested in other types of plants that aren’t yet available in Canada? The grocery industry has taken note and changed the type of fruits and vegetables sold in produce sections, by adding international varieties. Ornamental horticulture may be able take advantage of this new market opportunity.

CONCLUSION

The positive effect of immigration policies on population growth and Canada’s economic wealth is well understood and

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

INDUSTRY NEWS is likely to continue to gain in importance in the country’s future. Unfortunately, there are many aspects we don’t know about immigrant populations and their relationship to ornamental horticulture. We need to listen and better understand in order to make good decisions and directly impact the sustainability of our industry. As business people across the country, it is important for you to not only understand local immigrant cultures, but to engage with them to properly service their interests and needs. Cultural diversity: a new area fertile in business opportunities. Let’s find out the best ways to address them. Jean Dumas, is a Partner in MARCON, a marketing research firm specializing in ornamental horticulture and agribusiness. Frank Zaunscherb, is President and Creative Director for ZRB (Zaunscherb Roberts Blair Inc.), a marketing, design and communications firm specializing in ornamental horticulture and agri-business. Together MARCON+ZRB provides strategic research and marketing solutions for clients across Canada and in the United States.

Canada Blooms contest ready to begin The weeklong garden event, more commonly known as Canada Blooms, ran this past March. This year’s goal was to connect people to nature with a WILD theme that aimed to “ignite imaginations and illuminate souls” with fantasy gardens that triggered sensory overload. Attendees could not help but stare in amazement at the assortment of feature gardens and art installations throughout the show floor. Garden Centres Canada teamed up with Canada Blooms for the third year in a row to offer members the chance to hold a contest that sends a lucky winner to the show in style. Garden Centres around the country opted to hold the contest at their stores, with the 2013 winner selected from Make it Green Garden Centre in Kanata, Ontario. For this year’s winners, it was their first trip to Toronto, which they got to travel to in VIA Rail’s business class. They retreated to the beautiful downtown Intercontinental Hotel, where they stayed for two nights. During

their stay they visited the show, touring around the exhibits and interacting with the demonstrations. All in all they stated a “wonderfully positive experience as winners of the Canada Blooms contest”. You spoke, we listened, it was decided to not only host the contest again, but to extend the contest duration! This year’s contest will kick-off on the May long weekend (May 15, 2014) and run until December. If your garden centre wants to hold this unique contest, simply register with Chelsea Ten Broeck at Chelsea@cnlaacpp.ca.

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CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

landscape industry

certified

Certification Corner

Recently Awarded Landscape Industry Certification Manager Daniel Stone James St. John Jake Woudstra

ON ON ON

Designer D’Arcy Flattery

ON *as of April 20, 2014

CERTIFICATION TEST DATES Visit landscapeindustrycertified.org for more information and links to exam registration.

TEST DATES AND LOCATIONS: July 10/11

Langley, BC

August 12/13

Milton, ON

September 25/26

Kemptville, ON

Are you tracking your CEUs?

Atlantic Region Certification Centre Test Day

A busy spring so far It’s been a busy spring for certification with tests happening across the country. Over 100 people challenged the exams, bringing the total number of Landscape Industry Certified individuals in Canada closer to 1,000*! There have been a lot of firsts so far this year with Landscape NL holding its first ever Retail Horticulturist exam at O’Neill’s Gardenland and Landscape Manitoba holding its first ever practical test day in Winnipeg. Participants proved their mettle, as many had to complete practical exams in less than favourable winter weather. Thank you to all of the judges and volunteers that made all of the test days possible! If you would like to participate in future tests contact Laura Brinton at laura@ cnla-acpp.ca.

Keep track of your Continuing Education Units (CEUs) throughout the year, to ease you through the process when you are due to recertify.

*Spring test results still being tabulated at time of print

Uniquely developed to protect the green industry HortProtect is a great mix of quality, service, and value that is customized for the horticulture industry. Get a quote from a service team that works for you and your company. Gerald Boot, CLP - Boots Landscaping & Maintenance

HortProtect provides risk protection specifically designed for the horticulture industry. Let us show you how tailored coverages can better serve your business needs. Dan Winstanley, Property and Casualty Insurance Specialist Marsh Canada Limited

Customizable programs and exclusive coverage: Commercial and general liability, including snow removal operations; Automobile fleet coverage; Group of “ONE” flexibility; Employee Assistance Program; Group RRSP and Critical Illness; Group Life, Health and Disability Insurance programs brokered by:

Spread the word and grow your business Have you ever wondered the best way to communicate the benefits of indoor plants and the endless possibilities associated with interior plantscaping? Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB) created a solution through its Registered Trainer Program. A presentation prepared especially for professionals who make decisions about what gets included in buildings. Registered Trainers have three programs available to them, and each is worth one learning hour: Authentically Green Interiors; Living Walls; and, Green Roofs. For the first time, all GPGB presentations are now worth Continuing Education Units (CEU) with 13 professional organizations throughout the Canadian provinces and territories. Sally Harvey, Landscape Industry Certified, Manager of Education & Labour Development for Landscape Ontario and one of Canada’s first GPGB Registered Trainers, was a driving force behind bringing this opportunity to Canada. “This tool is truly key to the future of the interiorscape industry. In my mind it is the best tool developed to date that will enable us to connect with and engage the professional design community.” Learn how to tell the compelling story of “why green matters”! For more information on how to become a Registered Trainer, please visit the website at greenplantsforgreenbuildings.org or call the GPGB office at 707-467-9417.

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For more information on HortProtect, please visit: www.HortProtect.com

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

Landscapers Corner Damage prevention Safe Digging Month (April) has come and gone, but it is extremely important to keep safe digging practices top of mind at all times. Education and training is the best way to prevent line strikes. It is important to incorporate safe digging practices into your company’s safety culture. Key messages to keep in mind:

• • •

Always call or click before you dig Never presume a line runs straight Be sure to locate all facilities – gas, phone, internet, water, irrigation, and sewer lines, are just some that you have to consider.

It is now even easier to submit a locate request. Visit www.clickbeforeyoudig.com to find your local damage prevention contact centre and even submit a locate request online. The Landscape Canada Committee has secured a board position with the Canadian Common Ground Alliance to ensure our industry’s needs are met with regards to safe digging practices. CNLA will now be sitting at the table with groups such as North American Telecommunications, Canadian Electricity Association, Canadian Association of Geophysical Contractors, Canadian Energy Pipeline Association, Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, and more.

A unified voice for landscape designers Landscape Designers are connected to almost every sector of the industry and play a major role in the value chain. If you are a Landscape Designer, you are now being represented nationally via CNLA’s new Landscape Designer Subcommittee. This subcommittee, chaired by Ellen Ruddick, CLD from New Brunswick, reports to the CNLA board through the Landscape Canada Committee. This subcommittee was created to bring a national voice for the sector, bringing more opportunities to landscape designers across the country. Landscape designers across Canada are encouraged to get involved. Speak to your provincial association and connect with your local representative, or contact Julia

Ricottone at the CNLA office to provide your input on the issues affecting landscape designers in Canada.

Landscaper’s cool tech puts safety first on high school sports fields By: Karen Majerly, Communications at Work on behalf of Clintar Landscape Management A cool piece of GPS technology is keeping sports fields healthy and safe for a central Ontario school board. A bit like a satellite on the ground, a machine mounted on a riding lawn mower measures the quality of the grass surface on the playing field. The information it gathers tells the landscape management company where to put its resources to improve the health of the turf, and fewer weeds, bare patches, and uneven surfaces means improved safety for players. Pat Hester owns the Barrie, Ontario franchise of Clintar Landscape Management. He says the Trimble® GreenSeeker® sensing system is often used by farmers, but rarely used to improve sports fields. “It’s technology that has been used for years in agriculture,” he says. “I saw how we could use it to stay on top of the fields we manage for the Simcoe County School Board. It tells us things we can’t see with the naked eye.” Green plants reflect light differently than those that are unhealthy, not growing, or dead. The system’s head unit shoots a beam of light from the front of the mower, takes a reading, and stores information about the field. Back at the shop, the operator downloads the information into the program, which plots the readings on a

satellite image. From there, it’s easy to see if the field is stressed in any areas. Hester says he can clearly see which fields are doing well and which are not. “It’s a critical heads up that allows us to tailor the care of that field,” he says. “I know I have to do something to get that grass growing properly, whether it’s fertilize, or treat for pests, or adjust the irrigation schedule.” Clintar looks after 18 heavily used high school sports fields for the Simcoe County School Board, from Penetang to Collingwood to Barrie. It’s a large geographic area, with varying soil conditions, elevations, and climate, and Hester’s team can’t be in 18 places at once. “We print maps from the system to tell us where our special services are most needed,” he says. “This lets us focus on the areas that most need attention, so we travel less, use less fertilizer, and better manage water use. It’s hard to measure the savings in time, but I can tell you that we’re conserving materials. I don’t want to waste nitrogen fertilizer on perfect turf that can’t use it.”

Did you know? Not only does having plants and a landscaped area around your business attract more clients, it also reduces employee health-related absenteeism. absenteeism

More facts like this at www.cnla-acpp.ca/lccinfographic

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

Garden Centres Corner What are shoppers looking for? The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), in the UK, recently conducted some market research to find out what customer’s eyes are drawn to and how they see plants as they shop. To do this, customer eye movements were tracked as they walked through a garden centre.

Reviewers are currently in place in British Columbia, Newfoundland, with some availability in Ontario. Visit www.cnlaacpp.ca/GCAssessment for the most up to date list of reviewers and to download the registration form.

available to the retail garden centre sector. This commodity group is led by a national committee, with representatives from across the country, ensuring that provincial needs are being met nationally.

What are you getting from your membership?

The International Garden Centre Association (IGCA) exists to provide

What is important in your displays? Plant labels: Information on plant labels reassures the customer about their choice. It is important that this information is clear and legible. Images on the label will show your customers what the plant will look like in the garden. Eye movements in the study show that shoppers will compare the plant on the shelf to the image on the plant label before selecting the plant they want to buy. Colour blocking: The study shows that colour blocking stops the shopper’s eyes. This type of display can draw a customer in to find out more information. Use colours to catch your customer’s eye. Once their attention is engaged, they can become linked to other related products in the display (such as a ceramic pot). Plant merchandising: Proper merchandising adds value by engaging shoppers and creating a relaxing, satisfying shopping experience. In a previous survey, HTA found that up to 25% of 54-65 year olds find enjoyment in the plant displays they see when they visit garden centres; in fact, seeing those displays is part of the reason for their visit. Happy shoppers are more likely to have more impulse purchases.

A critical review of your garden centre Garden Centres Canada has launched a new program that can help you receive a thirdparty review of your store. The Garden Centre Assessment program brings a local reviewer to your store to review many features that are apparent in successful garden centres, including the store layout, quality and health of plants, displays and merchandising techniques, and more. The assessment can take place at any time of the year, and uses local reviewers.

Part One: four memberships in one

There are many different reasons for joining the association and many different benefits that come along with your membership. Over the next three issues of the CNLA newsbrief, we hope to break down some of the benefits that garden centre members have access to. Did you know that garden centres get access to four memberships in one? When you joined your provincial association, you also gained instant membership to CNLA (and Garden Centres Canada), the International Garden Centre Association as well as the Retail Council of Canada. The breakdown:

Provincial Associations are your main

contact for industry information. They are your local connection for education, trade shows, consumer events and much more. We cannot go through the infinite benefits that your provincial association can offer, so please contact them directly for more information.

CNLA is your national association,

working on everything from government lobbying, training and certification to human resource issues that are affecting your business. Garden Centres Canada is a commodity group of CNLA that specifically focuses on programs and opportunities

a forum for the mutual exchange of information and benefit of similar minded independent garden retailers on a worldwide basis. IGCA sends out regular e-newsletters featuring updates from member countries on the state of the industry and what they are working on to benefit independent garden centres. Links to those updates are included in the Garden Centres Canada e-news. The biggest benefit of being part of IGCA is the ability to take part in their annual congress. This six-day tour takes place in a different country each year and delegates are able to see the best garden centres in each country and bring back unique ideas to apply to your business. This year’s Congress takes place in Ireland from August 10-15, 2014. For more information on IGCA, visit www.intgardencentre.org. Our partnership with the Retail Council of Canada (RCC) was solidified to benefit our garden centre members. If you are currently paying the Retail Council of Canada for your membership, you can cancel that membership and still have access to most of the same benefits. RCC offers CNLA members preferred credit card processing rates from Chase Paymentech, discounts on Shopify (online sales), Canpar courier, as well as a number of webinars and other resources. CNLA members may require a membership number to access certain programs. Contact the CNLA office to receive this information.

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

Garden Centres Canada continues to work on many different programs that can benefit your business. Find out more in the next issue of the CNLA Newsbrief or visit www.gardencentrescanada.com for more information.

Recycle like a pro Garden Centres Canada, in partnership with CNLA’s Environment Committee, is preparing for the 2014 National Plastic Recycling Event happening June 20 to July 1. Member garden centres across the country are invited to participate by acting as dropoff points for old garden plastics. Receiving plastics from the public requires a bit of effort; however, disposing of those plastics afterwards can be a challenge. CNLA got in touch with recycler Dianne Lang of Divert Recycling Inc., to learn how to assist with your collection effort, and more about the next step in the process. What made you get involved with recycling garden plastics? Four years ago, I discovered there was a huge need to help dispose of all the plastics generated by the horticultural industry. Most of these growers are fourth and fifth generation, and are very aware of doing the right thing for their families that are following in their footsteps. They really do not want to send plastic to landfills, nor do they want the costs associated with doing so. They have a very keen sense of corporate responsibility, and they are looking for alternate solutions. How did you begin? I started working with Darwin Cuneo of Plastix Canada, along with Lorraine Pigeon Ivanoff, to help with the National Recycling Week. It was a pilot project and despite it actually costing Darwin and I time and money, we decided to persevere and see if we could create a program that would be beneficial to both the industry and ourselves. Our goals are to divert as much plastic as we can from landfill, and keep materials in Canada to support local manufacturing.

What does Divert Recycling Inc. do and why is it important? We offer solutions to offset expenses of disposal. We have many ideas and ways to educate your customers to help minimize their efforts, as well as creating awareness of the importance of each individual’s participation and its vitality to the success of a sustainable recycling program. Darwin Cuneo’s facility, Plastix Canada, is a recycling and processing company. Darwin has been a key factor in supporting my efforts. He has worked diligently to create a system where we can grind and wash the horticultural materials down to a reusable resource. What is a common misconception in the industry? There is a perception that all plastic has some value. To a degree, this is true; however, there is a percentage of plastics that are not recyclable, this is where education becomes the key. The majority of the horticultural plastic found in the pots and trays are: #2 - High Density Polyethylene, #5 - Polypropylene, and #6 Polystyrene. It is imperative these materials are collected and processed separately, as they all have a varying melt index. We can also help with the disposal of greenhouse film. We network with companies that sell this material, and also offer services such as poly removal, replacement, and greenhouse construction. What can CNLA members do to assist your efforts? Ideally, you should use the Bloomin Good Idea (www.bloomingoodidea.com) marketing material to educate the consumer to return

their pots and trays to their garden centre or grower, and place the appropriate pot in the appropriately labelled bin. This helps reduce sorting labour costs for the garden centre, as well as gets the customer to return to their business (and hopefully make those impulse purchases!). The garden centre or grower then nests and palletizes the sorted material for shipping to our facility. This helps us to maintain lower processing costs, which in turn, ensures that our plant will continue to be successful. If everyone could just do their one little part, then we become a team, and we are all more effective in our efforts. Do your part! By building on the foundation that Dianne and Darwin have started, you can help to create a sustainable program. To prepare for the National Plastic Recycling Event, educate your staff about closed loop recycling. Myers Industries Lawn & Garden Group and Bloomin Good Idea have helpful resources to get you started. Finally, ensure that your collecting stations are set up to sort the plastics properly. This will save you and your recycling facility valuable time. Any more questions? Contact Dianne Lang of Divert Recycling Inc. at: 905-484-0219 or Dianne@divertrecycling.com Let’s put our best foot forward and work together to create a sustainable, planet friendly system. To register your garden centre as a drop-off point, contact Chelsea@cnla-acpp.ca and she will add you to the map of participating stores.

After two years of participating in the National Plastic Recycling Event, we partnered with Myers Lawn and Garden Group. We continued educating our customers with their “Get in the Loop - Horticultural Container Closed-Loop Recycling program.” Our joint effort resulted in diverting and recycling over 5,000,000 lbs of plastic.

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

Growers Corner Update: Canadian Hardy Rose Program By: Vineland Research and Innovation Centre In 2010, the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) obtained the rights to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Hardy Rose Breeding Program including all of its germplasm. In a collaborative effort, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) assumed the breeding responsibility for the research program. We sat down with Dr. Rumen Conev, Research Scientist in Plant Breeding at Vineland to discuss the project. Q. Can you explain what the VinelandCNLA partnership’s Canadian Hardy Rose Breeding Program is about? “The intent of the program is to develop a continuous line of high quality rose varieties that will generate profitability for Canadian nurseries and retailers and brighten the Canadian landscape. Our number one priority is to breed cold hardy and black spot disease resistant landscape roses. We’re also interested in developing varieties that are aligned with what consumers want in a landscape rose – specific colours, glossy dark green foliage and fragrance. The roses need to be resistant to powdery mildew and have the ability to bloom continuously. We breed for classic garden roses as well as for landscape roses suitable for mass planting, ground cover as well as container and patio grown plantings.” Q. The program is now in its fourth year, so what’s new? “We’re launching a Pan-Canadian testing network with collaborating nurseries and academic institutions from coast to coast. Our team is busy performing over 15,000 crosses each year and combining the heredity of 100 parental varieties and lines from Canada and around the globe. Every year 10,000-15,000 hybrids are planted on our farm in Vineland, Ontario and evaluated for ornamental display and resistance to black spot disease. The best of these roses are sent to collaborators across Canada including the University of Saskatchewan for further testing in a variety of climatic conditions for black spot resistance and

winter hardiness. Following two to three years of rigorous testing in harsh conditions without fungicide sprays and winter protection, a couple of the best performing and adapted varieties are selected for commercialization each year.”

easily find their products and advance rates. If any products are missing please let us know and we will request their addition to the list of eligible products.

Q. What is the future of the program? “The first Vineland-bred selections are already in the pipeline and new varieties combining disease resistance, hardiness and consumer appeal are planned for release by early spring 2018. In addition to the traditional Canadian market, Vineland’s Business Development team is working on establishing partnerships in the U.S. and Europe. Russia, Eastern Europe and Scandinavia are rapidly growing but mostly untapped markets where Canadian roses have a solid reputation. The royalties obtained from the new releases will be funneled back into research to sustain breeding and commercialization required to continuously release rose varieties for Canadian growers for years to come.”

These improvements are effective as of April 1, 2014. The list of eligible products and advance rates apply to all provinces. Application forms can be downloaded from the ACC website at www.agcreditcorp.ca

Improvements to the Advance Payments Program for 2014-2015

In response to concern from industry in other parts of Canada not currently infested by EAB, and particularly the prairie provinces, the Forestry Division of the CFIA have prepared an informative Q&A to address these concerns. To download a copy of this article, which deals with control and prevention strategies, click here. A map of the newly established regulated area is available on the CFIA website: www.inspection.gc.ca. Click on “Plants” and follow the links.

A number of improvements have been announced for the 2014-15 Advance Payments Program for the nursery sector. including a large increase in the number of eligible products. AgCredit Corporation (ACC), the organization that administers the program on behalf of the nursery sector across Canada has provided the following updates: 1.

Producers will no longer be required to submit proof of sales as long as a repayment schedule is completed and producers adhere to the repayment schedule. For deciduous trees, evergreens, container shrubs and flowering plants all species are now covered for the listed genus names. For the list of container shrubs and flowering plants (pages three to nine) the list of eligible products has been greatly expanded The advance rate summaries have been simplified (pages two, nine, and 10) so growers can more

Update on Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) As of April 1, 2014, most of the areas currently regulated to control emerald ash borer (EAB) in Ontario and Quebec have been consolidated into a single large regulated area by CFIA. This action will enable authorities to better protect Canada’s forests and urban forest resources by preventing the spread of EAB into other parts of Canada.

New stats for flowers and plants The International Association of Horticulture Produers with Union Fleurs have released ‘International Statistics - flowers and plants for 2013’ which is an essential reference for trade organizations, policy makers, marketers, producers, traders, libraries and universities. The publication contains labels, diagrams and maps, grouped according to country, product and market. This extensive research and data on the production and trade of flowers and plants across the world is available on the CNLA website at www.cnla-acpp.ca/growers

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

Coin de producteurs Programme canadien Rose Hardy De: Vineland Research and Innovation Centre En 2010, l’Association canadienne des pépiniéristes et des paysagistes (ACPP) a obtenu les droits du programme d’amélioration génétique de Hardy Rose d’Agriculture et Agroalimentaire du Canada, y compris la totalité de son germoplasme. Dans un effort concerté, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre (Vineland) ont assumé la responsabilité de l’amélioration génétique pour le programme de recherche. Nous avons rencontré le Dr Rumen Conev, chercheur en amélioration génétique des plantes à Vineland pour discuter du projet. Q. Pouvez-vous expliquer le programme d’élevage canadien Hardy Rose du partenariat Vineland et ACPP? « Le but du programme est de développer une lignée continue de variétés de roses de haute qualité qui assurera la rentabilité pour les pépinières et les détaillants canadiens et qui égayera le paysage canadien. Notre première priorité consiste à cultiver des roses d’aménagement paysager résistantes au froid et aux maladies des taches noires. Nous sommes également intéressés à développer des variétés correspondant aux désirs des consommateurs pour des roses d’aménagement paysager : couleurs spécifiques, feuillage vert foncé brillant et parfum. Les roses doivent être résistantes à l’oïdium et pouvoir fleurir en continu. Nous produisons des roses de jardin classiques ainsi que des roses d’aménagement paysager convenant à la plantation de masse, la couverture du sol ainsi que la plantation dans des conteneurs et pour les terrasses. » Q. Le programme en est à sa quatrième année, qu’y a-t-il de nouveau? « Nous lançons un réseau d’essais pancanadien avec la collaboration des pépinières et des établissements universitaires d’un océan à l’autre. Notre équipe effectue plus de 15 000 croisements chaque année et combine l’hérédité de 100 variétés parentales et des lignées en provenance du Canada et du monde entier. Chaque année, 10 000 à 15 000 hybrides sont plantés à notre ferme à Vineland, en Ontario et évalués en fonction de leur capacité d’utilisation dans l’aménagement

paysager et la résistance à la maladie des taches noires. Les meilleures roses sont envoyées aux collaborateurs à travers le Canada, y compris à l’Université de la Saskatchewan pour subir des tests de résistance à la tache noire et au froid. Après deux à trois ans de tests rigoureux dans des conditions difficiles sans pulvérisation de fongicides et de protection pour l’hiver, un couple de variétés les plus performantes et adaptées sont sélectionnées pour la commercialisation chaque année. » Q. Quel est l’avenir du programme? « Les premières sélections de Vineland sont sur le marché et de nouvelles variétés combinant la résistance aux maladies, la résistance au froid et l’attrait des consommateurs sont prévues pour la distribution au début du printemps 2018. En plus du marché traditionnel du Canada, l’équipe de développement de Vineland travaille sur l’établissement de partenariats aux États-Unis et en Europe. La Russie, l’Europe de l’Est et la Scandinavie connaissent une croissance rapide, mais la plupart des marchés inexploités où les roses canadiens ont une réputation solide. Les redevances obtenues à partir des nouvelles variétés seront canalisées de nouveau dans la recherche pour soutenir l’amélioration des plantes et la commercialisation nécessaire pour offrir continuellement des variétés de roses aux producteurs canadiens pour les années à venir. »

Améliorations apportées au Programme de paiement anticipé pour 2014-15 Un certain nombre d’améliorations au Programme de paiement anticipé pour 2014-15 ont été annoncées pour le secteur des pépinières incluant une augmentation considérable du nombre de produits admissibles. L’AgCredit Corporation (ACC), l’organisation qui administre le programme au nom du secteur des pépinières à travers le Canada, a annoncé les mises à jour suivantes : 1.

Les producteurs ne seront plus tenus de soumettre une preuve de vente tant que le calendrier de remboursement est terminé et que les producteurs se conforment à l’échéancier de remboursement.

Pour les feuillus, conifères, arbustes à conteneurs et les plantes à fleurs, toutes les espèces sont désormais couvertes pour les noms des genres énumérés. La liste des produits admissibles a été considérablement élargie pour les arbustes de conteneurs et de plantes à fleurs (pages trois à neuf). Les résumés des taux de l’avance ont été simplifiés (pages deux, neuf et 10) de sorte que les producteurs puissent trouver plus facilement leurs produits et taux de l’avance. Si vous remarquez des produits manquants, veuillez nous en aviser et nous demanderons de les ajouter à la liste des produits admissibles.

Ces améliorations entrent en vigueur le 1er avril 2014. La liste des produits admissibles et les taux anticipés s’appliquent à toutes les provinces. Les formulaires de demande peuvent être téléchargés à partir du site Web de l’ACC à www.agcreditcorp.ca

Mise à jour sur l’agrile du frêne À compter du 1er avril 2014, la plupart des secteurs déjà réglementés pour le contrôle de l’agrile du frêne (AF) en Ontario et au Québec ont été regroupés en une seule grande zone réglementée par l’ACIA. Cette action permettra aux autorités de mieux protéger les forêts et les ressources forestières urbaines du Canada en prévenant la propagation de l’agrile du frêne dans d’autres régions du Canada. En réponse aux préoccupations de l’industrie de d’autres parties du Canada non actuellement infestés par l’agrile du frêne, et en particulier les provinces des Prairies, la Division des forêts de l ‘ACIA a préparé une série de questions et réponses pour ces préoccupations. Pour télécharger une copie de cet article qui traite des stratégies de contrôle et de prévention, cliquez ici. Une carte de la zone nouvellement réglementée créée est disponible sur le site Web de l’ACIA : www.inspection.gc.ca Cliquez sur « Plantes » et suivez les liens.

CNLA Newsbrief

Spring 2014

Industry events NORTH AMERICA May 14: Landscape Alberta High River Project Volunteer Day June 13: National Garden Day www.gardendays.ca June 18: Canadian Water Summit, Toronto, ON www.watersummit.ca June 18: Grower Day, Brantford, ON www.greenhousecanada.com/grower-day Displacement 24.1 cc

June 20-July 1: National Plastic Recycling Event, Canada-wide www.gardencentrescanada.com

Power Output 0.9 kW

Weight 4.6 kg / 10.1 lb

STIHL FS 94 R Brushcutter Dependable performance meets variable speed control. The STIHL FS 94 R 2-stroke brushcutter delivers one of the best power-to-weight ratios in its class, weighing just over 10 pounds - great for manoeuvering around hills, landscaping stones and other terrain. Its innovative control handle features an ECOSPEED throttle set wheel, allowing you to set the most effective throttle speed for a specific application, such as low throttle around delicate plants. Combined with a high-powered, low exhaust emission engine and anti-vibration system, this brushcutter is a great everyday landscaping tool for professionals.

STIHL’S LIGHTEST 2-STROKE BRUSHCUTTER FOR THE PROS • Mid-range brushcutter for demanding professional landscapers

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• Lightweight and compact design for comfortable operation over long periods

• Equipped with a variable speed control ECOSPEED throttle, which allows precise control of cutting speed

• For use with Nylon line heads and metal grass blades, STIHL PolyCut™ 20-3 and DuroCut 20-2

• Features a simplified starting procedure - semi-automatic choke lever; hit the throttle and the lever returns to normal operating position

June 22-25: World Congress6 on Conservation Agriculture, Winnipeg, MB www.wcca6.org July 29-August 1: Turfgrass Producers International Summer Convention Field Days, Philadelphia, PA www.turfgrasssod.org August 18-22: CNLA Summer Board of Directors Meeting, Cape Breton, NS August 21-23: Farwest Show, Oregon Convention Centre, Portland, OR www.farwestshow.com

QUALITY AT WORK. For 88 years, STIHL has been a world-class innovator in outdoor power equipment. German engineered products featuring the latest pioneering technologies make STIHL the market leader. STIHL products are only available at independent STIHL Dealers who provide expert advice and on-site service. Thank you for supporting the leading team and for making STIHL the Number 1 Selling Brand in Canada.

June 18-21: 15th Annual Snow and Ice Symposium: Columbus, OH www.sima.org

INTERNATIONAL *

May 30: European Green Congress, Hamburg, DE www.elca.info August 10-15: IGCA Congress, Ireland www.igccireland2014.com

* #1 Selling Brand in Canada is based on an independent market share analysis of imported gasoline powered handheld outdoor power equipment for the year 2013.

August 27-30: Plantarium, Boskoop, NL www.plantarium.nl September 7-11: AIPH Annual Congress, Qingdao, CN www.aiph.org STIHLCanada

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JOIN THE CLUB that everyone is talking about! www.STIHLCLUB.ca

www.stihl.ca

www.cnla-acpp.ca/events

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