February - March 2011
Volume 32, Issue 1
Lite A b i - m o n t h l y p u b l i c a t i o n f o r FN G L A m e m b e r s . F u l l m o n t h l y i s s u e l o c a t e d a t h t t p : / / g r e e n l i n e . f n g l a . o r g
FNGLA’s Floriculture Field Days & Performance Trials to be Held at Epcot
S
pring is here! Mark your calendar for May 12-13 for FNGLA’s 2011 Floriculture Field Days and Performance Trials held in conjunction with Epcot’s® International Flower and Garden Festival at Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club, Lake Buena Vista, FL. FNGLA and Disney’s Horticulture team are gearing up for a top-notch educational program and performance trials that will showcase new varieties from industry breeders across the country. Come gain insight on new varieties’ resilience to the heat and humidity of Central Florida’s climate and hear the latest on trends, trials and Twitter.
Meet Our Thursday and Friday Luncheon Speakers
The Evolution of a Trial Garden Dr. Allan Armitage, University of Georgia, Athens, GA Widely regarded as one of the world’s foremost horticulturists, Dr. Allan M. Armitage is a professor at the University of Georgia, Athens, where he teaches, conducts research on new garden plants, and runs the University of Georgia Horticulture Gardens. He will talk about the garden trial process and how plants make their journey from a simple Impatien to International Status.
Trial By Flowers – The Flameproof Favorites Jimmy Turner, Dallas Arboretum, Dallas, TX In North Texas, there are many environmental challenges that make selecting the “right” plants crucial to successful gardening. Jimmy Turner, Senior Director of Horticulture at the Dallas Arboretum, will share his favorite plants from their grueling trial program. The Dallas Arboretum is one of the oldest independent national testing programs and the only testing site for the All-America Selections seed trial program in the state of Texas.
Great Sponsorship Opportunities are Now Available Choose to have an exhibit table to display information on your products and/or services, or become one of the exclusive sponsors of the luncheons. For more information on sponsoring or conference details, visit the Floriculture web site at http://www. fngla.org/events/floriculturefield-day/ or contact Linda Reindl at FNGLA at lreindl@fngla.org.
Registration opens in March.
PRESIDENT’S LETTER
Carolan Mahr FNGLA 2010-2011 President
Dear Members, TPIE set another “trend” with its beauty, information and attendance. The one “trend” all are hoping for is increased sales. If what I heard on the trade show floor is any indication, we should see some increases in that area -- something we all are happy to see. I was fortunate enough to get to walk around and visit with both exhibitors and attendees during the three days of the show. Of course, the first comment was how pretty the show is -- and it truly is! This year’s booths were superb and congratulations to the booth award winners and new plant variety awards. I wish to say “thank you” to TJ Higgins and Sun Parasol, Suntory Collection for the sponsorships they provided throughout the show and the Happy Hour, which was a show standout. I did notice another thing at TPIE…what is old is new again! I saw many plant varieties I had in my college dorm room and/or that my grandmother grew, which was very comforting in a way. This is being contributed to our need for comfort during these economic times. Whatever it is, I love it! I also wish to pass on a tip from the opening session on trends. When you need a hostess gift next time…take a plant! Promote the industry and its benefits. It will start a conversation and possibly a “trend.” “What is next for FNGLA?” It’s legislative time in Tallahassee and our own Ben Bolusky and Jim Spratt will be keeping us informed on the happenings. We will also be keeping a watchful eye on Washington as the new Congress takes shape. So watch for Ben’s Babbles/Bullets and Tallahassee Tidbits from Jim over the next few months. We must all be watching this year as the Legislature will be “tweaking” the state budget and immigration has the prospect of being a part of the legislative agenda. We also have the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival beginning March 2 and Floriculture Fields Days on May 12-13. I look forward to the launch of the Consumer web site this month. Many opportunities are still out there for volunteers, education and the promotion of plants, products and services. As I close, I ask what your “trend” will be this year. I wish to suggest that one be to participate, educate, and take advantage of member benefits being offered through FNGLA. Until next month… “Plants give us oxygen for the lungs and for the soul.” ~ Linda Solegato
View More on Greenline Online
Free Listings on the FNGLA Plant and Product Locator FNGLA Members can list their plants, products and services for free in the FNGLA Online Plant and Product Locator
This publication highlights the latest FNGLA news. The full Greenline publication can be found at
through June 30, 2011. This member benefit is extended by FNGLA to help our members navigate through the
http://greenline.fngla.org
tough economy. Don’t have time to input your inventory?
There, you’ll find additional articles,
FNGLA staff can input the information for you for a small
industry news and more.
administrative fee (contact Amy DiBella at adibella@fngla. org or call 407-295-7994. Visit www.fnglalocator.com today to start populating your listings!
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FNGLA HAPPENINGS FNGLA to Celebrate National Arbor Day To celebrate trees in our state’s schools, FNGLA is providing approximately 300 Florida elementary schools with a free tree voucher to be used for a class, grade-level or school celebration on or around National Arbor Day, Friday, April 29, 2011. This opportunity not only teaches students about National Arbor Day, but also provides an ideal learning platform to focus on the many benefits of trees. Fourth grade teachers from every Florida elementary school are eligible to participate. The first 300 to submit requests will be awarded a voucher for a free tree, redeemable at participating FNGLA-member nurseries and garden centers. The voucher can be used toward a tree and items for the tree planting ceremony. FNGLA members contacted by school teachers with vouchers must submit the voucher to FNGLA for a $50 reimbursement and recognition in Greenline. Tree grower and garden center members will be contacted by FNGLA with more information about the program. Participation by members is voluntary. For more information, contact Amy Di Bella at the FNGLA office at (800) 375-3642.
FNGLA Industry Award Nominations due March 15 FNGLA’s Industry Awards program presents a wonderful opportunity each year to honor those individuals who have helped enhance FNGLA and the industry. Nominations will be accepted through March 15, 2011, and each award recipient will be honored during FNGLA’s 2011 Annual Convention at the La Playa Resort in Naples, June 23 - 26. FNGLA is pleased to accept nominations for the following industry awards: • • • • • • •
Farm Credit/FNGLA Young Nursery Professional of the Year FNGLA Outstanding Chapter President FNGLA Outstanding Chapter Secretary and/or Treasurer FNGLA Outstanding Volunteer (formerly the Division Member category) FNGLA Outstanding Educator FNGLA Hall of Fame Wendell E. Butler Award
Broward Chapter President Tony Burzo received the 2010 Outstanding Chapter President Award last year.
Nomination forms and award criteria are located at www.fngla.org/recognition/industry-awards/ For complete details on FNGLA’s Industry Awards program, visit the Industry Awards web page at www.fngla.org/recognition/industryawards/ or call (800) 375-3642, or e-mail Linda Adams at ladams@fngla.org.
Volunteers Needed for FNGLA Garden at Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival Epcot’s 2011 International Flower & Garden Festival will open on March 2. The festival will run for its regular 10.5-week duration and will close on Sunday, May 15. While FNGLA sees great value in educating the gardening consumers of tomorrow, we also are looking to ramp up enthusiasm today-and help create a demand for Florida’s products. FNGLA is once again seeking FNGLA members and FNGLA certified professionals to serve as garden hosts at FNGLA’s garden and to assist park guests for the opening day and then each Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the festival: March 2 - May 15, 2011. Volunteers can pick from two different 3-hour shifts: 12:00 – 3:00 pm or from 3:00 – 6:00 pm. While we are able to allow gardening qualified friends and spouses to serve as FNGLA volunteers, they must be able to fulfill the duties serving as a host answering gardening questions and interacting with park guests. We cannot allow children to participate. All FNGLA volunteers gain entrance to the park for the day of their commitment to the FNGLA Garden, but are free to enjoy Epcot and the festival before and after their volunteer time, until the park closes
An Epcot visitor examines last year’s Green Wall.
for the evening. FNGLA Certified volunteers will also receive 2 CEU points for their service. Don’t delay in coordinating your preferred time slots as volunteers will be accepted for Opening Day and each extended weekend on a first-come, first-served basis. Access the volunteer form at http://www.fngla. org/community-programs/epcot-garden/archive/2011/ VolunteerSignup.pdf to sign-up or contact Amy DiBella at FNGLA at adibella@fngla.org for date availability. For specific program questions, contact FNGLA’s Director of Public Relations and Marketing, Jennifer Nelis at jnelis@fngla.org.
FNGLA HAPPENINGS
Save the Date for FNGLA’s Annual Convention
FNGLA Past President Shaw Passes Away FNGLA is saddened to inform you of the death of Joseph C. Shaw, 88, who served as FNGLA’s President in 1972-73 and as the Miami Chapter President in 1968. He established Shaw Nursery & Landscape Co. in 1946 in Miami. A
June 23- 26, 2011 La Playa Resort Naples, Florida FNGLA’s Annual Convention is a time each year for FNGLA members and industry friends to celebrate the past year’s successes while welcoming FNGLA’s new leadership taking office. It is also the venue for FNGLA’s Annual Meeting and the platform for presenting FNGLA’s Industry Award Winners.
native of Hamilton, NY, Shaw moved to Miami after WWII and worked his way through the University of Miami, graduating in 1949. He was very active in UM affairs and Miami civic and community organizations. Among his many honors, Shaw received the Odenkirk Award as the Most Outstanding Florida Nurseryman. Contributions in John’s name may be made to the UM Athletic Scholarship Program.
FNGLA’s 2011 Annual Convention will take place June 23 - 26, 2011 in Naples, Florida at the beautiful La Playa Resort. Hotel reservations are being accepted. Visit the Convention web site, http://www.fngla.org/events/annual-convention/location.aspx for more information. Convention 2011 details are in the works and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Become a sponsor of FNGLA’s annual convention for as little as $250. Exclusive event sponsorships are still available. For more information, visit the convention web page, or call Linda Adams at (800) 375-3642.
Images from Convention 2010 - Don’t miss this year’s in beautiful Naples! More information coming soon.
CERTIFICATION More Than 300 FFA Hort Students Compete in Industry Events For the sixth year, Florida FFA held its statewide Career Development Events in Floriculture & Nursery/Landscape at Pinellas Technical Education Center, hosted by the Pinellas FNGLA Chapter. On February 5, more than 300 middle school and high school students from all over Florida competed in events that highlighted Florida’s nursery and landscape industry.
Bonnie Desmond FCLD, Debby Laramee FCHP and Greg Charles FCHP take a short break from the day’s activities.
Dedicated FNGLA Pinellas Chapter volunteers spent Friday evening setting up the event and returned Saturday to judge events, proctor exams and lead teams of students from one event to another. Special thanks go to FNGLA member Bonnie Desmond, FCLD and her committee for their hours of planning, writing test questions, setting realistic scenarios for the students and coordinating sponsors and volunteers.
In 2006, pTEC Horticulture Chair Greg Charles brought the FFA Career Development Events (CDEs) to St. Petersburg, and the event continues to grow in prominence. The CDEs introduce students to horticulture, providing a competition in real-world situations that link to best management practices, FNGLA certification and horticulture careers.
Beginning in 2010, the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) joined the event, providing an enhanced floral focus where students demonstrate skills in wiring technique and floral design by creating boutonnieres. Congratulations to the following winners: • 1st place High School Nursery & Landscape: Lennard High, Ruskin • 1st place Middle School Nursery & Landscape: Tomlin Middle, Plant City • 1st place High School Floriculture: Umatilla Senior, Umatilla
Area companies and FNGLA members met with the students and teachers in the trade show area.
• 1st place Middle School Floriculture: Beth Shields Middle, Ruskin The high school winners advance to represent Florida in the nationals in Indianapolis this October. Thanks to pTEC St. Petersburg campus for holding the event each year. And thanks to all the volunteers & sponsors for making this such a premier and special event for all the contestants.
FNGLA joins SFWMD for 4th Annual Landscape Challenge For the fourth year in a row, FNGLA and the South Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) will present The Landscape Challenge – a fun, competitive and educational demonstration of landscape management skills – that focus on Florida Friendly Best Management Practices. This year’s Challenge takes place in Martin County on Friday, April 22nd during Water Conservation Month. The 4th Annual Landscape Challenge brings teams of landscape maintenance professionals together to compete for the title of “Ruling Water Champions.” Jenkins Landscape of Hobe Sound is the defending Champion. Best management practices are important landscape principles for our industry – especially for the proper utilization of our water resources. The Landscape Challenge is an interactive, hands-on approach learning how to put these practices into place. This team-building and educational event is free and CEUs are available to FNGLA Certified Industry Professionals. You can participate on a team or join the program as a spectator. Although there is no cost to participate, registration is required. Sponsorships are available. For more information, contact Merry Mott at FNGLA at 800-375-3642.
The Landscape Challenge events are judged by members of the Landscape Inspectors Association of Florida.
NEW MEMBERS
Welcome New FNGLA Members The following are new FNGLA members from January 1 - February 22, 2011 ACTION Bob McDole, Supportive 1435 Raintree Lane Mt. Dora, FL 32757-9520 352-729-2386 Wholesale Plant Industry, Inc. Sun Kim 32309 Senese Rd Sorrento, FL 32776-8865 352-383-1594
COASTAL SPRINGS Big Yellow Services Christine Chiarito 2027 Gunn Hwy Odessa, FL 33556-3255 813-920-4881 www.bigyellowservices.com FRONTRUNNERS Eric Carnall, Student Gainesville, FL
BIG BEND Steve Head, Student Tallahassee, FL
LAKE REGION Ross Glaser, Student Lakeland, FL
BROWARD Floral Ecstasy Jason Smith 1211 Stirling Rd #105 Dania Beach, FL 33004 954-922-3939 www.floralecstasy.com
MANASOTA Mary Albritton 735 S Beneva Rd Sarasota, FL 34232-2411 941-922-8775 www.hibbsfarmandgarden.com Referred by: Rich Kling, Integrity Merchant Solutions
Xtreme Gardens Lizardo Espino 850 NW 168 Ave Pembroke Pines, FL 33028-1481 954-435-4361 www.xtremegardens.com
MIAMI-DADE Crop Claim Advisors Andrew Korge 230 Palermo Ave Coral Gables, FL 33134-6606 305-445-6977 www.cropclaims.com John Deere Landscapes Brad Carmean, Associate Member 7891 NW 62nd St Miami, FL 33166-3538 305-216-6655
Plant Biotech Pty. Ltd. Anil Ghodké 44 Laxton Rd Palmview QLD 4556 Australia 61-7-5494-5619 www.plantbiotech.com.au
Instant Shade Nursery & Landscape Donald Bailey 7461 74th Ct S Lake Worth, FL 33463-7718 561-789-2680 Referred by: Joey Quinn, Quinntessence Nursery, Inc.
Wilson’s Farms Joe Burmeister 21000 SW 280th St Homestead, FL 33031-3206 786-282-8347
Palm Beach Atlantic University Ken Kropp, Supportive 1218 S Olive Ave West Palm Beach, FL 33401 561-603-2199
NORTHEAST Allied Precision Industries Jack Simms 4638 Meadow Run Place Jacksonville, FL 32217-9322 615-804-1129 T P C Sawgrass Adam Jennings 102 Club Service Dr Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082-5065 904-273-3243 PALM BEACH Bongard Nursery Barbara Bongard 11470 172nd Place N Jupiter, FL 33478-5320 561-746-4240 www.bongardlandscaping.com Referred by: Maria LiDonni, Lidonni Nursery & Landscape, Inc.
Southern Waste Systems, LLC. Charles Gusmano 790 Hillbrath Dr. Lantana, FL 33462-1672 561-582-6688 www.southernwastesystems.com PINELLAS Josh Schwabe, Student St. Petersburg, FL TAMPA BAY Jessica Bello, Student Tampa, FL OUTSIDE FLORIDA Freedom Tree Farms Catherine Daugherty PO BOX 69 Pelham, TN 3366 931-467-3600 T V I Imports, LLC Anthony Tisi 178 Abbey St Massapequa Park, NY 11762 631-793-3077 www.upgradedplanters.com
FNGLA Certification Manuals Undergo Revisions FNGLA has undertaken the huge task of updating its industry certification manuals, offering more information than ever before. These manuals can be utilized to prepare for certification, or as general education for industry professionals. FNGLA’s Certified Horticulture Professional (FCHP) manual will continue to include the latest green industry Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) principles and will be expanded to include nursery and greenhouse operations, plant propagation and biotechnology. It will be available online and as a printed manual. FNGLA’s Certified Landscape Maintenance Technician (FCLMT) manual is brand new, offering a look at the latest in landscape maintenance techniques including turf care, vehicle safety, integrated pest management, irrigation management, fertilization and pruning. FNGLA’s Certified Landscape Technician (FCLT) manual is an update of the existing study guide for landscape installation. It covers information on tree planting, palm banding, grading, instrument operation, hardscapes and more. The newest versions of FNGLA’s manuals will be available Fall 2011. For more information, contact Merry Mott at FNGLA at 800-375-3642.
FNGLA’s certification manuals provide guidance in preparing for FNGLA’s certification exams.
Read the latest FNGLA news inside & visit Greenline online at http://greenline.fngla.org
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Calendar of Events
Contact Us
See all event information at http://greenline.fngla.org/calendar
March 2:
FNGLA Garden at Epcot opens, Lake Buena Vista
11:
Continuing Education: Fertilizer Calibration (In Spanish), Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, Naples
17:
Second Annual Landscape Challenge, Southwest Florida Water Management District, Brooksville
18:
Spring 2011 Outdoor Tree School, Losco Regional Park, Jacksonville
28:
Florida-Friendly Landscape Best Management Practices (BMPs), UF Osceola County Extension, Kissimmee
April
2010 – 2011 FNGLA State Officers (407) 295-7994 (800) 375-3642 (407) 295-1619 info@fngla.org www.fngla.org
CEO/Exec. Vice President Ben Bolusky Greenline Editor Jaclyn Rhoads jrhoads@fngla.org
President Carolan Mahr Ted Mahr Supply, Inc. 407A SW 2nd St Cape Coral, FL 33991 (239) 574-2214
President-Elect Halsey Beshears 2191 S Jefferson St P.O. Box 697 Monticello, FL 32345 (850) 997-5054
Past President Monty Knox Knox Nursery, Inc. 940 Avalon Rd Winter Garden, FL 34787 (407) 293-3721
Secretary/Treasurer Wes Parrish Parrish Nursery 5900 SW 185th Way Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33332 (954) 680-3544
Connect with us:
17:
Second Annual Landscape Challenge, Southwest Florida Water Management District, Brooksville
29:
Green Industries Best Management Practices (BMPs) Training, IFAS Putnam County Extension Office, East Palatka
12-13:
FNGLA Floriculture Field Days and Performance Trials, Epcot, Lake Buena Vista
18:
Green Industries Best Management Practices (BMPs) Training, UF St. Johns County Extension, St. Augustine
May
FNGLA Phone: Toll-free: Fax: E-mail: Web:
About FNGLA This publication is produced by the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) as a service to its members. The statements and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of the Association, its staff, Board of Directors, Greenline or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers or their identification as members does not constitute an endorsement of the products or featured services. The mission of the Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association is to promote and protect the success and professionalism of our members.