FNGLA's February 2016 Greenline

February 2016 | Volume 37, Issue 2

FNGLA’S MONTHLY PUBLICATION: DIGITAL MONTHLY ISSUE LOCATED AT HTTP://GREENLINE.FNGLA.ORG

TPIE Elevated Expectations for 2016 & Beyond The Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition (TPIE) launched a bold theme for 2016 – Elevating Expectations. Already known as the industry’s most unique and inspiring trade event, TPIE set the stage for a higher level of presentation and interaction as more than 6,200 exhibitors and buyers from 43 U.S. states and 46 countries met to experience TPIE in Ft. Lauderdale.

As part of its promise to Elevate Expectations, TPIE set itself apart as the show to learn about key trends for use in planning 2016 and 2017 sales. Christine Boland, international trends analyst and thought-leader, opened TPIE with a keynote session focused on Shifting Perspectives. A full-house audience heard Boland’s perspective of our global society and how shifts transfer to marketplace trends. Boland named eight consumer needs which plant products and services can satisfy: Longing for Grip; Desire for the Human Scale; Rediscovering the Senses; Striving for Balance; Defining a Personal Pace/Rhythm; Taking Responsibility; Reconnecting to Nature; and, Cultivating the Uncomplicated.

Plant design and interior design styles were matched as part of an inspiring and creative TPIE display featuring three interior room vignettes, each showcasing a trending design style. Featured designs were: reclaimed; modern; and, children’s spaces. As a unique fundraiser for the National Foliage Foundation (NFF), attendees voted with dollars for their favorite room. By the show’s end, the Reclaimed Room, designed by Mary Daugherty, FCHP and Roy Daugherty, earned the most dollars for NFF. Keeping in line with trending design styles, the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) offered six workshops showcasing plant designs complementing the design styles mentioned above, while also broadening the modern style to include mid-century modern designs. A new addition to the AIFD Create Theater schedule was a Wine and Design workshop, Continued page 3

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Billy Butterfield, FCLC FNGLA 2015-2016 President

TPIE is a Complex Event With Lots of Hands Creating Its Success You’d think after the holidays, there would be a little lull in the business workload at FNGLA. Yet, the work is never done at the FNGLA office in Orlando and all of us members get the opportunity to attend TPIE (the Tropical Plant Industry Exposition, TPIE) in January every year because of the work they’ve done for the past year. I actually talked to a friend in the business this past week who has never attended TPIE. I told her she has been missing one of the most beautiful industry shows in the country.

While there are many industry vendors at TPIE giving attendees insights and examples of things they need to run their businesses, it is the beautiful, unique and unbelievable amount of color which catches your eye when you walk in the door. The first thing you see when you enter the exhibit hall is the Suntory booth full of colorful roses, blooming mandevilla, and T Jay Higgins’ welcoming smile. What a great welcome! You walk a few steps and your eyes are overwhelmed with orchids, bromeliads and tropical foliage of all kinds. Even if you aren’t a plant geek, you can’t help but love this show.

It takes a lot to put together a show with 400 exhibitors, 850 booth spaces and 6,235 attendees. I have the unique privilege of living in Orlando so I get to visit the FNGLA office on a pretty regular basis. I also sit on a couple of committees so I am there and able to interact and see what goes on in the office. We are blessed to have such a dedicated and hard-working team there. I know I don’t know all that goes on with Ben, Linda and company, but here are some of the things I’ve seen.

This show doesn’t just happen after a couple of members meet and let staff know what’s going on in the industry that year. There is a whole year of meetings where themes and topics are pondered, schedules are reviewed, and programs are suggested and discussed.

Starting months in advance of the show, there are meetings

to set up the TPIE educational road shows. FNGLA is a member-driven organization, which accounts for many of the ideas for most of our programs, but the program details are up to staff to ensure they are presented professionally and without compromise. Buses have to be booked, bus captains recruited, maps and times checked out to ensure when the buses arrive, they actually have a place to pull in and drop off. The all-important food, drinks, and snacks have to be arranged, as an all-day bus trip requires a lot of sustenance. All of this requires staff trips from Orlando to South Florida, meetings with nursery personnel who will be giving the tours, and caterers who will be providing the food. Hey, someone has to make sure when you get there the drinks are cold and there are forks and napkins!

I attended two of the road shows this year and they were excellent. My bus in the morning was captained by Robert Bowden, from “Beautiful Leu Gardens” and if you like to smile a lot, then you want to be on Robert’s bus. He’s also one of the most knowledgeable individuals in horticulture for whom you could ask -- a great benefit for all on the bus. I’ve been told all three buses were well-captained. The Nightscapes tour was a one-of-a-kind tour I have never before seen offered or done. I understand all three road shows were all very well received and if you didn’t attend one of them, you missed some beautiful tours that were fun and educational at the same time. But after the tours are over, the job still isn’t done. Thank you cards have to be sent and evaluations analyzed so next year’s tours can be even better.

FNGLA Certification is now a part of TPIE thanks to Certification Committee Chair Gary Weitermann and FNGLA Director of Certification Merry Mott.

Certification has always been showcased at The Landscape Show each September in Orlando, so it was natural to take certification to TPIE. Yet, without the work Gary and Merry put into the interactive display, it wouldn’t happen.

Plans are pieced together weeks in advance for materials needed to construct the display, as well as the volunteers needed to staff it during show hours. There are plants to acquire, boxes to be built and filled with plants and mulch, Continued page 8

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Continued from page 1

FNGLA HAPPENINGS

which combined instruction and petals, leaves and the other items needed to create hair accessories – all while enjoying a glass of wine.

New for Interiorscape professionals, TPIE offered a session matching Interiorscape projects with current industry trends. These peer-to-peer presentations focused on live walls, holiday and special event projects.

The TPIE Road Show provided three distinct tours. One focused on trends in the marketplace including nurseries which showcased consumer products reflective of current market trends. Another tour took an in-depth look into the latest innovations in biological controls and visited nurseries demonstrating the use and results of biological controls. The third tour explored landscape trends in garden design and nightscapes with stops at local botanical gardens and private, residential landscapes.

A bonus session, open to all show attendees, was added to the TPIE schedule to deliver tools for attendees to Elevate Expectations in their own businesses.

Presented by one of TPIE’s favorite business strategists and speakers, John Kennedy, the Thursday morning talk continued the Elevating Expectations theme of the show. Participants left with specific ideas to enhance their customers’ expectations and steps to maintain higher standards of service and experience.

TPIE’s Exhibitor Showcase highlighted dozens of the industry’s newest plants and products. The Favorite New Flowering Plant in the showcase was Nepenthes ‘Lady Luck’ by Deroose Plants, Inc. The Favorite New Foliage Plant was Aglaonema ‘Pink Dalmation’ by Costa Farms. TPIE’s Favorite New Product was Coffee Arabica also by Deroose Plants, Inc. Fifteen stand-out products were selected by retail attendees to receive TPIE’s Cool Products Awards. The winning products included: a mix of unique plants; containers; well-merchandised products; and, even a plant aquarium. The selection committee was comprised of independent garden center owners and interiorscapers from across the country.

TPIE is known for the impressive exhibitor displays and exhibitors certainly rose to the occassion. In fact, exhibitors elevated expectations with displays not only showcasing their plants, products and services, but offering creative ideas, innovation and inspiration for attendees to borrow and use in their own businesses. TPIE booth award judges had the tough job of selecting the best of the best from the 869 exhibit spaces. Congratulations go to Costa Farms for winning the coveted TPIE Best of Show Award! The Costa team set up their island display as a “pop-up” garden center, with themed vignettes, each showcasing a line of plants speaking to that genre.

In the category of Island Exhibit awards, United Nursery took first place with a full-scale, booth-sized “Plantopoly” board game using very creative horticulturerelated details to highlight their plant inventory. Check out all the 2016 TPIE booth award winners.

Another new addition for 2016 was Elevating Expectation recognition awards.

These ribbons were given to exhibitors who, in the opinion of TPIE committee

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FNGLA HAPPENINGS TPIE activities were broad and included many learning sessions, networking opportunities and reasons to celebrate as 6200 buyers and attendees flocked to sunny Ft. Lauderdale and TPIE. The show’s 400+ exhibitors in 800+ spaces from the tropical and interior plant industries elevated expectations creating three days of business, camaraderie and success.

Continued from page 3

leaders, added elements which went above and beyond typical exhibits and included a ribbon going to: D & A Nursery for the sensory delight of having live ukulele music; Silver Vase’s incredible Vanda orchid walls which became a favorite background for attendee selfies; Florida Cactus’ lagniappe style give-away of hairpieces and boutonnieres made of succulents; Farm Credit’s celebration of its 100th Anniversary by distributing cupcakes to all of its exhibiting customers; and, Sun-Fire Nurseries whose foresight planned for the rain on Friday by handing out Suntory umbrellas to anyone in need when the rains arrived. A total of ten Elevating Expectations awards were delivered to the winners by TPIE Chairman Lloyd Singleton.

With the ribbon came words of appreciation for the extra efforts made to enhance the TPIE experience for everyone.

As snow storm warnings spread throughout the northern U.S., TPIE’s Opening Day temperate weather offered ideal conditions for TPIE’s Happy Hour. Sponsored by Suntory Sun Parasol, this popular reception was a chance to continue TPIE connections while enjoying a drink with soothing steel drum rhythms playing in the background and a vista of the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop.

Friday’s wind and rain didn’t daunt more than 250 students who showed up for the FNGLA Horticulture Career Fair.

Led by FNGLA Past President Sandy Stein, FNGLA business leaders shined a bright light on a wide variety of industry career opportunities for high school students. These business leaders also learned from the students of their career interests.

Students then had access to the show floor, with many completing interviews and assignments specific to plants and companies in the show.

Several students and seasoned horticulturists spent time at the FNGLA Certified Landscape Exam showcase, testing their plant id know-how and learning more about the FNGLA Certified Landscape Technician programs. Anchored by the FNGLA and NFF booths, the certification showcase was a popular area to learn more about the important programs and opportunities offered by FNGLA to enhance professionalism and elevate expectations within the industry.

TPIE is one of the many important activities produced by FNGLA. While managed by FNGLA staff, TPIE is developed and planned by a committee comprised of FNGLA members: Chairman Lloyd Singleton (University of Florida/IFAS Extension); Vice Chairman Bisser Georgiev (LiveTrends Design Group); Immediate Past Chair Theresa Riley (Rockledge Gardens); Chris Beytes (Ball Publishing); Manny Rodriguez (Plants In Design); Marcella Lucio (Silver Vase); and, Patrick Prussing (Sunshine Horticulture).

Planning for the 2017 TPIE is already in the works. Mark your calendar for January 18-20, 2017 to take advantage of the TPIE experience!

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TPIE Happy Hour & Lanyard Sponsor & Innovation Lounge

FNGLA HAPPENINGS

Opening Session Sponsors

Create Theater presented by AIFD Thursday Sessions Sponsor

Exhibitors’ Showcase

Welcome Orientation Sponsor

Tradeshow Bags

General Sponsor

Rest Stations

More Landscape Exam Judges Certified: While at TPIE, a group of FNGLA Certified Professionals earned yet another certification – one that qualifies them to judge FNGLA’s landscape certification exams. From left are: FNGLA’s Merry Mott, Billy Butterfield, Gary Weitermann, Carlos Graveran, John Gonzalez, Wayne Simmons, Luc Limbourg, Frank Gonzalez, Kyle Seidenstucker, Kim Hoadley, Vladimir Foursa, Larry Searle, Troy Scutchings, Bruce Ihrig, Millie McFadden, Chester Wallace, Joe Mastracchio, Bryan Woodcum and Ron Wright.

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FNGLA HAPPENINGS TPIE Welcomes Garden Communicators from Across the Nation In an effort to link Florida’s nursery and landscape businesses with the nation’s premier garden communicators, FNGLA extended an invitation for select garden writers to attend and experience TPIE-- and the 18 communicators who made their trek experienced an amazing time exploring South Florida’s gardens and TPIE’s happenings.

Their experience began the day prior to the show’s opening with the Botanical Garden & Design Tour, part of the TPIE Road Show, where they experienced South Florida’s unique tropical plants touring both botanic gardens, private home gardens and nightscapes. Sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with other tour attendees, the experience was designed to showcase not just Florida’s great plants, but our great industry people too! Hats off to FNGLA member Sylvia Gordon (Landscape by Sylvia Gordon) who was instrumental in piecing together both the tour and the entire garden writer experience at the show.

Garden writer guests enjoyed front-row VIP seating at the TPIE Opening Session presented by Christine Boland followed by a personalized tour of the show floor, given by TPIE Show Chair Lloyd Singleton. From touching and feeling the plants and products in the Exhibitors’ Showcase to seeing show-stopping ideas in the aisles-- the tour ended at the TPIE Create Theater Stage as AIFD designer Jenny Thomasson began her session. From there, the show itself offered an array of educational sessions where these communicators continued to build their base knowledge of Florida’s plants.

Writers who attended included those with affiliations to HGTV; AAA Travel; Growing A Greener World, and several traditional papers such as The Detroit News. There were two garden radio show hosts, one from Orlando and the other from Massachusetts. Others included garden book authors and others who communicate regularly about gardening to the general public.

The tweets and social media posts started immediately after they left their homes, and, quite frankly, haven’t stopped! And, many have already written about their experiences, spreading the word about Florida’s plants and tropicals. We intend to run a similar Garden Communicator program again for 2017. For more details on FNGLA’s engagement with garden communicators or to be involved in the 2017 happenings, contact FNGLA’s Jennifer Nelis, jnelis@fngla.org.

FNGLA has a long history of interacting with garden communicators. New for TPIE, select garden writers were invited to attend the Botanic Garden & Design Tour Road Show, part of the TPIE Road Show and Opening Day happenings at TPIE. 18 writers participated in the festivities. Search #GardenWriters to stay connected on social media.

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FNGLA HAPPENINGS National Foliage Foundation (NFF)’s Message Is Strong The National Foliage Foundation’s message was shared many different ways at the Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition (TPIE), January 20-22, in Fort Lauderdale. With a new area and more direct presence on the show floor to NFF’s annual fundraising reception on Thursday, January 21, all underscored NFF’s interest in strengthening the future of the green industry.

NFF’s Annual Reception is always a time when like minds can come together with the same goal at heart. It is an evening event to recognize individuals who have contributed to the Foundation’s portfolio and continue to share the message of NFF’s annual support of research programs and scholarship opportunities. Through pledges and contributions, NFF raised over $32,100.00, including a contribution of $10,000 given by FNGLA’s Miami-Dade Chapter’s Dick Fuhr Memorial Fishing Tournament as well as new pledges and contributions. Pledges and contributions are made for different reasons. Some industry members start an endowment in the name of family members or friends. It is a way to create a lasting industry impression. Some give because they believe in the message or the cause.

Chet Peckett, former owner of Peckett’s, Inc. and past president of NFF, is a great example. During the reception, Chet created an endowment in the name of Michelle Melnyk, one of his former employees. He believes industry business owners should all take the opportunity to recognize individuals within their company who have contributed to their success. In late 2015, Michelle Melnyk lost her battle with cancer. She was loved by her peers and industry friends. She was a leader and dedicated team member at Peckett’s and now NFF holds a special place for her within the foundation. Funds from Michelle Melnyk’s endowment and others are key to strengthening the future of the Green Industry.

John Kennedy, NFF’s evening speaker, spoke about elevating the Green Industry. He discussed the art of giving along with the human and healthy impact it can have on you. You don’t have money to start an endowment? John talked about the importance of donating time. He challenged everyone in the room to find one hour, every month, to spread the message of NFF. “Do the math,” he said, “What a difference it will make.”

NFF, once again, coordinated the Annual Fundraising Cash Raffle. Board members hit the floor selling raffle tickets to support NFF’s scholarship efforts. Not only did the raffle bring awareness to NFF’s efforts but it raised over $2,300 for NFF’s scholarship program. The scholarship program has established a solid pathway for qualified students in need of financial support. Over the years, NFF is proud to have provided over $350,000 to students pursuing their careers in horticulture. It is the goal of the Foundation to see these students grow and mature into future leaders of the industry.

NFF believes in creating strong relationships with the industry, the academic world and future leaders. The foundation continues to seek ways to capitalize on new opportunities to expand the industry’s market reach and looks forward to a great 2016.

For more information about the National Foliage Foundation or how to contribute, visit www.nationalfoliagefoundation. org or email Linda Reindl, lreindl@fngla.org. The National Foliage Foundation is administered by the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA).

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FNGLA HAPPENINGS TPIE: FNGLA’s Certification Showcase Drew Knowledge Seekers Thank you to the sponsors of FNGLA’s Certification Showcase: Brad’s Bedding Plants Brantley Nurseries Bushel Stop/Atlas Peat Excelsa Gardens Oglesby Nursery Pine Island Nursery Plant Life Tropicals PlantSearch.com SeaWorld Horticulture

Attendees of the 2016 Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition tested their horticultural skills at FNGLA’s Certification Showcase.

In addition to information on upcoming classes and exams, three exam stations were set up: Plant ID, Irrigation ID and Job Evaluation.

The booth was busy with FNGLA Certified Professionals seeking CEUs and industry members getting a look at some of the principles tested on FNGLA’s certification exams.

Thank you to Sandy Benton, FCLC of Landscape Service Professionals; Shane Humble, FCLMT of Complete Property Maintenance; Bruce Ihrig, FCHP of SeaWorld; Carl Wallack, FCLC of Wallack Hort Consultants; and, Gary Weitermann, FCLMT of SeaWorld for bringing certification information to TPIE!

President’s Perspective, Continued from page 2

and forms for the mock plant I.D. test to be developed, proofed and printed. Gary and Merry start two days before the show opens just setting up this display on the show floor. The fruits of their labor showed as there was a steady flow of future FCHPs, FCLTs, FCLMTs, FCLDs and FCLCs passing through the certification display all day.

There are literally dozens of other things going on for months in advance to get a show like this to its opening day. I’m involved with certification and I attended two road shows, so I got to see these firsthand, so I’m speaking about these now. Yet, I also realize for a full year that booths must be sold, the show floor analyzed as to where strategically to place everything from the main stage to food vendors to end caps – all while ensuring the end results earn the local fire marshal’s green light. Speakers are lined up for the opening session and for the Create Theater. Marketing materials are sent out, plants are secured for decorations, microphones checked and scripts written and proof-read. There are 11 people in the FNGLA state office and they work miracles making sure all the details are examined so when we walk in the door at TPIE, we get a smile on our face, find a new vendor for something we’ve needed to address and, maybe, learn something new from a great speaker.

And, now, since we are through another year of TPIE, let’s all take a break and get ready for the FNGLA Florida Flower Trials, Annual Convention and The Landscape Show. And don’t forget the certification exam occurring this month at Sea World. Thanks to a great FNGLA staff for always staging these wonderful events for all of us to attend.

Billy Butterfield, FCLC AmeriScapes Landscape Management Services, LLC (Orlando) ameriscapes-landscape@att.net

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FNGLA HAPPENINGS

FNGLA NEWS

Florida Flower Trials Takes Place May 12 & 13 in Orlando Mark your calendars for May 12 & 13, 2016 and get an intimate look at the new color varieties showcased at the Florida Flower Trials. Hear from national breeders and learn how to make your business bloom.

Florida’s spring season is an ideal time to learn more about new colors and evaluate plants for garden performance and resilience. Breeders will bring their newest releases and challenge their durability against the heat and humidity of Central Florida’s climate.

Florida Flower Trials, previously known as FNGLA’s Floriculture Field Days, features new varieties at three locations: Walt Disney World’s nursery; Harry P. Leu Gardens; and, the University of Florida/Orange County Extension Service. The two-day event will offer educational seminars, tours and open houses for landscape professionals, garden center retailers and growers.

Annual color truly brings a splash of energy to any landscape design. Yet, for many landscape installations, annual beds are a small percentage of the business dynamic and, many times, are the first line-item in contracts to be cut back. Come gain the competitive edge you need to keep color in your business and your customers smiling at what they see. For details on participating, visit www.FloridaFlowerTrials.org.

For details on sponsoring, contact FNGLA’s Linda Reindl, lreindl@fngla.org . Your participation will help increase awareness and strengthen the professionalism of our industry.

FNGLA’s 2016 Convention Hotel Reservations Now Being Accepted FNGLA’s Annual Convention is the summer connection spot as FNGLA members meet June 18 & 19 at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando. FNGLA’s convention is built on ROR -- Return on Relationships. This is the meeting which gives time for connecting with fellow members while taking care of FNGLA business and taking advantage of exclusive FNGLA access to special industry places and people.

The convention program includes an exclusive tour of Harry P. Leu Gardens by garden director, Robert Bowden. FNGLA convention participants will also have a unique behind-the-scenes opportunity to visit the horticulture facilities at SeaWorld which serves as the permanent Central Florida test site for FNGLA’s Landscape Certification exams. Tours of SeaWorld’s gardens will be offered by SeaWorld horticulture director, Mark Russell, FCHP and his staff. A welcoming reception at SeaWorld, FNGLA’s Annual Business Meeting and the President’s Gala is also on the schedule of convention activities.

New to the agenda at this year’s convention is an FNGLA landscape installation service project.

FNGLA President Billy Butterfield is the bridge between the Central Florida Boys and Girls Club and any FNGLA members who wish to work with Billy to install a new landscape near the playground of the Walt Disney World Boys and Girls Club.

Billy is seeking donations of plants and trees (which do well in Central Florida), mulch and volunteers to install the landscape.

He also needs a sponsor for lunch for the volunteers.

It’s not too early to make your hotel reservations for FNGLA’s 2016 Annual Meeting. You can take advantage of the FNGLA discounted single/double room rate of only $139 by calling 866-996-6338. Mention FNGLA’s Annual Convention to receive the special group rate.

FNGLA members will receive emails in March with complete schedule and registration details. Meanwhile, for more information about convention, volunteering or being a sponsor, contact Linda Adams at 407-295-7994 or ladams@fngla.org.

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25th Anniversary Event!

February 11 & 12, 2016 at the Jacksonville Fairgrounds

Help your business grow!

What’s new in the field • Refresh your relationships Educational seminars and credits

Register online today and Save $2! nefngla.org or call 904.292.1117

FNGLA

®

FLORIDA NURSERY, GROWERS AND LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION

Leading Florida’s Green Industry

Northeast Chapter FNGLA • 904.292.1117 • nefngla.org

EXHIBITOR SPACE STILL AVAILABLE

FNGLA NEWS FNGLA Seeks Volunteers for Florida State Fair FNGLA is proud to be an organizational partner at the Florida State Fair and we’re looking for volunteers to work the display now through Sunday, February 14.

FNGLA certified professionals can earn up to 4 CEUs for their volunteer day.

As you may be aware, Florida’s nursery and landscape industry was the featured commodity for the 2015 fair and a very large, 2500 square foot garden was centerstage. This year, FNGLA will be showcasing the industry from a scaledback version of the area-- just 20’ wide.

We’ll be offering a children’s activity, take home seedlings and be on-hand to offer local area gardening advice to fair attendees and will use the “house” backdrop as a setting.

Details are still developing, but we’re looking for two volunteers each day, one shift, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Details will be sent prior to your day at the fair. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Amy DiBella at adibella@fngla.org to coordiante your preferred dates with open spots. We hope you can be a part of this fun event!

FNGLA Industry Awards Nominations Easier Than Ever It’s up to you! Now’s the time to nominate your FNGLA colleagues who go above and beyond in their FNGLA participation.

Whether it be as a chapter leader, outstanding statewide volunteer, exceptional educator or young leader, FNGLA’s Industry Awards annually recognize individuals who exceed expectations. Deadline to submit nominations is March 7, 2016.

Online nomination forms for the FNGLA Industry Awards have been streamlined, making it more simple and convenient to nominate worthy individuals for FNGLA’s top recognitions. Forms can be completed and submitted directly online.

FNGLA’s Industry Awards include the prestigious Wendell E. Butler Award (FNGLA’s highest honor); FNGLA Hall of Fame inductee; the FNGLA/ Farm Credit Outstanding Young Nursery Professional for those 39 years old and younger; FNGLA Outstanding Volunteer; and, FNGLA Outstanding Educator.

New this year is the FNGLA Outstanding Chapter Leader Award which combines the former Outstanding Chapter President and Outstanding Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Awards. While this new award may go to a person serving as a chapter officer, it is not limited to only chapter presidents and secretary/treasurers.

The Industry Awards will be presented at FNGLA’s Annual Meeting on Saturday, June 18 at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando.

Serving as co-chairs of the FNGLA Industry Awards Selection Committee are Roger and Janice Brooks (2008 Wendell E. Butler Award recipients). The full selection committee is comprised of the eight most recent recipients of FNGLA’s Wendell E. Butler Award.

For additional information on FNGLA’s Industry Awards, contact Linda Adams at 407-295-7994 or email ladams@fngla.org or visit FNGLA’s website at: http://www.fngla.org/recognition/industry-awards/.

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MEMBER NEWS “Green Industry” has Generated Nearly $200 Billion U.S. Annually, More Than 2 Million Jobs A new study by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences shows the “green industry” (defined as nursery and greenhouse production, landscape services and horticultural product distribution) generated $196 billion in revenues annually, and more than two million jobs in the United States.

“Our study demonstrated that this industry is a very large employer,” said Alan Hodges, UF/IFAS Researcher and lead author of the study. “It exists in virtually every community in the U.S. The rise of large retail chain stores with garden departments has made plants and other horticultural products more readily available to consumers than ever before.”

Green industry products include sod, flowers, bedding plants, tropical foliage, trees and shrubs, among other types of plants.

The industry also includes many businesses that provide services such as landscape design, installation and maintenance, plus firms — such as lawn and garden stores — for wholesale and retail distribution of horticultural products, Hodges said.

The $196 billion estimate for revenue contributions by the industry includes additional impacts arising through the industry supply chain — for example, fertilizers and chemicals purchased by nursery growers. It also reflects spending of household income by industry employees and tax revenues generated by the industry, Hodges said. The study compared industry activity in 2013 to previous studies for 2002 and 2007-08. Dr. Alan Hodges can be reached at 352-294-7674 or awhodges@ufl.edu.

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INDUSTRY NEWS AmericanHort Elects New Volunteer Leaders, Florida Chairman AmericanHort announces the election of officers and three new members of the board of directors and will be headed by FNGLA member Teri Cantwell of Bates Sons & Daughters in Lake Placid, Teri was elected Chair of the Board of Directors, and Tom Demaline of Willoway Nurseries in Ohio was elected the Vice Chair. Dale Deppe of Spring Meadow Nursery in Michigan becomes the Immediate Past Chair.

Three industry leaders were selected to serve as members of the board of directors: Bob Dickman of Dickman Farms, Greenhouses & Garden Center in New York; Lisa Minter-Bustin of Minter Country Garden in British Columbia; and Seth Reed of GrowIt! Mobile in Illinois. Each will take office on the board of directors during Cultivate’16, July 9 to 12 in Columbus, Ohio. The board of directors is comprised of a diversity of retailers, growers, installers, and industry suppliers.

Terri Cantwell currently serves as the Vice Chair of the AmericanHort board of directors. She previously served as the Vice President of OFA, on the board of directors for Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association, and as chairperson of the former Southeast Greenhouse Conference. Terri is an owner of Bates Sons & Daughters, Inc., a third-generation family company in Lake Placid, Florida that provides caladium bulbs and pre-finished potted caladiums. Terri is passionate about promoting the relevancy of the industry in everyday lives and in engaging the next generation of professionals.

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Florida Ag Literacy Day Scheduled & Volunteers Sought!

INDUSTRY NEWS Bleak Florida Citrus Industry Forecast for Season’s Harvest

The 13th annual Florida Agriculture Literacy Day is scheduled for Tuesday April 26, 2016, and the second in a series of new non-fiction children’s books has been developed that will highlight Florida’s vegetable industry.

The book, the title of which is Drive through Florida: Vegetables, features an animated red truck named ‘Ole Red’ that takes students on a tour of Florida’s tomato, squash, snap bean, sweet corn, lettuce, bell pepper and potato industries, among others.

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and Florida Agriculture in the Classroom (FAITC) invite farmers, growers, ranchers, Farm Bureau members, Florida cattlemen and cattlewomen, University of Florida IFAS extension and 4-H agents, master gardeners, FFA teachers and students and agriculture industry representatives to read in elementary classrooms around the state as part of the event.

Readers are asked to schedule their classroom visits first, and then order materials on the FAITC’s website at www.agtag.org. The online ordering system will go live on FAITC’s website beginning mid-February. Materials will be mailed to readers. Readers will receive one book, one disc with the book and teacher resources on it and classroom sets of stickers and bookmarks per classroom, which they will deliver to the classroom the day of the reading.

For more information on Ag Lieract Days of Florida Ag in the Classroom, contact Lisa Gaskalla at 352-846-1391 or email gaskalla@ufl.edu.

USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released its latest forecast of Florida orange production and, while unchanged from last month, the figures remain almost 30% below what they were last season.

NASS continued to predict 69.0 million boxes of oranges from Florida this season, below the 74 million it forecast back in November and the 80 million included in October’s forecast. This latest number represents a 29% reduction from last year’s output. NASS forecast 36 million boxes of early, mid-season and Navel oranges, down 24% from last year. The forecast for Florida Valencia oranges stands at 33 million boxes, down 33% from last season and an 11% drop from NASS’ prediction last month.

Florida frozen concentrated orange juice (FCOJ) continued to drop as well, dropping from 1.56 gallons per box in December to 1.50 gallons a box, the same as last year. This represents something of a sharp drop from more optimistic numbers in the fall. Back in October, NASS forecast 1.61 gallons a box which was lowered to 1.58 gallons per box in November.

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam said, “The USDA citrus crop forecast, even though unchanged, illustrates the dire state of Florida citrus. Without immediate and tangible support, citrus’ place in Florida history might just become that – history. I am dedicated to using every tool in the toolbox to save the industry, its more than $10.7 billion economic impact and the more than 64,000 jobs it supports.”

The decline in Florida citrus in recent years is mostly the result of Huanglongbing (HLB), commonly known as citrus greening.

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INDUSTRY NEWS Send A Strong Message About Your Business’ Success!

A decade ago, we saw low interest rates with even lower lending standards. So low, in fact, credit became the mainstay currency. The amount of debt consumers carried shot up 67%, peaking in June 2008 at $2.57 trillion. Likewise, businesses large and small borrowed money in droves to finance their dreams.

Then, the crash. The strong adapted: Tightening their financial belts and making diligent decisions on everything from shrinking employee benefits and freezing wages to extending the life of equipment to survive, and in some cases, even thrive. Weak businesses, on the other hand, they didn’t survive.

Flash to 2016. It’s a new era. Smart business owners are assessing their next moves and developing business plans to take them to the next level. There are many dimensions to consider and many paths you can choose for success. FNGLA can help make sure your business is equipped for success via FNGLA’s Member Services Provider Partner Isuzu.

In 1984, Isuzu trucks introduced U.S. business owners to a smarter way to work: Isuzu low cab forward trucks were maneuverable, offered a low cost of ownership, and delivered remarkable durability. After two short years, Isuzu trucks became the best-selling low-cab-forward trucks in America — a position held ever since -- and an incredible reason for FNGLA to be proud of our partnership.

The very first Isuzu truck arrived at the Port of Jacksonville and since then, over 500,000 Isuzu trucks have been delivered in North America. Isuzu offers a wide-range of products ideal for use in the nursery and landscape industry. Isuzu has provided their owners with many programs over the 30+ years that they have been doing business in the United States. These programs have included owner loyalty discounts, extremely low APR and an exceptional preventative maintenance program that comes standard on any new Isuzu diesel truck purchase. Now, for a limited time - Isuzu covers factory-recommended diesel maintenance for the first 24 months or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. The 24/60 program covers oil changes, tire rotations and even transmission/differential fluid replacement. Isuzu understands maintaining proper care of your vehicle decreases downtime and overall productivity- with the 24/60 program they are standing behind their product assuring it to be the most reliable for you.

The Isuzu N-Series LCF product line includes class 3-5 trucks and the only low cab forward lineup that offers two diesel engines and a gasoline engine that is CNG/LPG capable. The key to the functionality of the Isuzu commercial vehicles is their versatility across all vocations and they are especially well built for the landscape industry. In comparison with the conventional cab, the Isuzu low cab forward design delivers a longer body length to maximize your load, providing more square feet for payload capacity. Isuzu trucks provide the engine power options you need for GVW’s from 12,000 lbs. to 19,500 lbs. Allowing for a variety of upfit applications that can accommodate vocational bodies up to 24 ft. with the standard cab and 16 ft. with crew cab models (crew cab models will fit up to seven passengers). Standard with a clean top of frame allows body companies from all over to upfit your chassis specific with the body for your business style, whether that is an enclosed van with a dovetail, or maybe a hydraulic dump.

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Isuzu trucks provide you with options to customize your truck to your specific business model, think of it as another tool you use daily to make your operations as efficient as possible helping you protect your truck investment, improve performance, manage risk and reduce operating costs.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Isuzu is offering FNGLA members incredible pricing on the latest vehicles ideal for your business.

Quantities may be limited, so act now to secure the best vehicle for your business:

2016 Isuzu NPR Gas

LCF truck. GVW 12,000lbs. Wheelbase 109-176 inches. 6.0 Vortex V8 gasoline engine, 297-hp @4,300 rpm, 372lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. 6L90 Hydra-Matic 6-speed automatic with double overdrive. The Isuzu N-Series features a Vortec™ gasoline engine that is CNG/LPG alternative fuel capable.

Crew cab option for up to seven passengers.

2016 Isuzu NPR-HD Gas

LCF truck. GVW 14,500lbs. Wheelbase 109-176inches. 6.0 Vortex V8 gasoline engine, 297-hp @4,300 rpm, 372lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. 6L90 Hydra-Matic 6-speed automatic with double overdrive. The Isuzu N-Series features a Vortec™ gasoline engine is available with a CNG/LPG alternative fuel capable option. Crew cab option for up to seven passengers.

2015 Reach Van

Commercial van. GVW 12,000lbs. Wheelbase 151inches.

Isuzu 3.0 (4JJ1-TC) turbocharged intercooled diesel engine, 150-hp @2,800 rpm, 282lb-ft of torque at 1,600 – 2,800 rpm.

Aisin A460 double overdrive 6-speed automatic transmission with lockup. Isuzu’s exclusive IDSS (Isuzu Diagnostic Service System) allows diesel-model owners to receive a detailed “Health Report” from Isuzu dealers on performance data.

2016 Isuzu NPR Diesel

LCF truck. GVW 13,000lbs.Wheelbase 109-176 inches with body length up to 20 feet. Isuzu 3.0 (4JJ1-TC) turbocharged intercooled diesel engine, 150-hp @2,800 rpm, 282lb-ft of torque at 1,600 – 2,800 rpm. Aisin A460 double overdrive 6-speed automatic transmission with lockup. All Isuzu diesel engines have a B10 life of 310,000 miles. Isuzu’s exclusive IDSS (Isuzu Diagnostic Service System) allows diesel-model owners to receive a detailed “Health Report” from Isuzu dealers on performance data. Includes AM/FM/CD with AUX and USB inputs to enhance the driver’s convenience and experience.

See your local Isuzu dealer or call Florida’s District Sales Manager Matt Mesick, FNGLA’s Member Services point person, at 678-7633537 for complete details on redeeming your FNGLA member-exclusive pricing.

2016 Isuzu NPR-HD

LCF truck. GVW 14,500lbs. Wheelbase 109-176 inches.

5.2 Isuzu 4HK1-TC turbocharged intercooled diesel engine, 215-hp @ 2,500 rpm, 452 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,850 rpm.

Aisin A465 6-speed double overdrive automatic transmission with lockup, torque convertor + PTO opening. Includes AM/ FM/CD with AUX and USB inputs to enhance the driver’s convenience and experience. Crew cab option for up to seven passengers.

2016 Isuzu NPR-XD

LCF truck. GVW 16,000lbs. Wheelbase 109-176 inches. 5.2 Isuzu 4HK1-TC turbocharged intercooled diesel engine, 215hp @ 2,500 rpm, 452 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,850 rpm. Aisin A465 6-speed double overdrive automatic transmission with lockup torque convertor + PTO opening and crew-cab option.

AM/FM/CD with AUX and USB inputs to enhance the driver’s convenience and experience. Crew cab option for up to seven passengers.

2016 Isuzu NQR

LCF truck. GVW 17,950lbs. Wheelbase 109-200 inches.

5.2 Isuzu 4HK1-TC turbocharged intercooled diesel engine, 215-hp @ 2,500 rpm, 452 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,850 rpm.

Aisin A465 6-speed double overdrive automatic transmission with lockup torque convertor + PTO opening. Includes AM/ FM/CD with AUX and USB inputs to enhance the driver’s convenience and experience. Crew cab option for up to seven passengers.

2016 Isuzu NRR

LCF truck. GVW 19,500lbs. Wheelbase 109-212 inches.

5.2 Isuzu 4HK1-TC turbocharged intercooled diesel engine, 215-hp @2,500 rpm, 452 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,850 rpm.

Aisin A465 6-speed double overdrive automatic transmission with lockup torque convertor + PTO opening. Includes AM/ FM/CD with AUX and USB inputs to enhance the driver’s convenience and experience.

For a limited time only, any new Isuzu diesel truck that is purchased comes standard with the 24/60 Covered Maintenance Program. This means for the first 24 months or 60,000 miles your preventative maintenance is included - visit your local authorized Isuzu dealer for more information or visit www.isuzucv.com.

FNGLA Member Discounts only valid until June 30, 2016. Discounts not stackable with low APR program rates. Visit your local authorized Isuzu dealer for more details.

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INDUSTRY NEWS Ensuring our Industry’s Future through FFA Play a part in our industry’s future, while restoring your faith in America’s youth! Join FNGLA on Saturday, March 5 when 350 students demonstrate their horticultural skills at the Florida FFA Career Development Event in Floriculture and Nursery/ Landscape. The event takes place at the UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research and Education Center in Apopka.

The best-of-the-best students from throughout Florida compete for this prestigious statewide championship – highlighting OUR industry! It takes many hands to provide these students with a quality event, so volunteers are needed to assist with set up, plant identification, proctoring exams and leading student teams. Sponsors also help defray the cost of student lunches and supplies.

For more info on volunteering or sponsoring this once-a-year event, contact Merry Mott at FNGLA at mmott@fngla.org or call 800-375-3642.

Houzz Connects Industry to End Consumers If you’re looking to connect to Florida’s landscape consumers and have not yet set-up a Houzz profile, it’s a quick process where you can gain exposure for your landscape services by showcasing past projects.

And, if you are an FNGLA Certified Professional, you can add the affiliation to add credibility to your business. FNGLA’s page is located at: http://www.houzz.com/pro/fngla where we are showcasing FNGLA’s Landscape Award winners and FNGLA events for business professionals.

Water Conservation Education Continues Efficient Irrigation systems and well-designed landscapes lead to water savings. Learn how these two ideas fit together at Florida Water StarSM training in two Central Florida locations in March.

March 22 brings Florida Water StarSM to Polk County Utilities in Winter Haven. There is no cost to attend thanks to the Southwest Florida Water Management District. Those interested in earning the Accredited Professional designation can sit for the exam the following day at a cost of $50. Contact Merry Mott at FNGLA mmott@fngla.org or 800-375-3642 to register.

The Florida Association of Native Nurseries will also include Florida Water StarSM training on March 31 in conjunction with The Native Plant Show in Kissimmee. Visit FANN online at www.nativeplantshow.com for details and to register.

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MEMBER NEWS New UF Turfgrass Professor Dr. Adam Dale was recently hired as the Assistant Professor of Turfgrass and Ornamental Entomology at the University of Florida in Gainesville. Coming from North Carolina State University in Raleigh, Dale’s work has led to the development of tree planting strategies and recommendations that reduce the occurrence and magnitude of pest infestations on urban trees.

At UF, he will expand his previous work and build an extension and research program to address the needs of the Florida lawn and ornamental industries. He is interested in plant-insect interactions, predator-prey interactions, and developing more sustainable pest management strategies. As the industry is presented with more regulatory challenges and environmental issues, management strategies will have to adapt. Contact Adam at agdale@ufl.edu.

ChemChina Offers A Record $43 Billion to Purchase Syngenta China National Chemical Corp. is nearing an agreement to buy Swiss pesticide and seed maker Syngenta AG for about 43.7 billion francs ($42.8 billion) as the state-backed company extends its buying spree with what would be the biggestever acquisition by a Chinese firm, according to sources close to the happening.

ChemChina, as the state-owned company is known, is said to have offered about 470 francs a share in a cash deal. That’s 24% higher than Syngenta’s last close of 378.40 francs on February 1. The Chinese company is also planning to keep Syngenta’s management team largely in place.

The deal would help Chairman Ren Jianxin transform ChemChina into the world’s biggest supplier of pesticides and agrochemicals, while snatching an asset coveted by St. Louis-based Monsanto Co. It also underscores the importance China attaches to owning seed and cropcare technology that can boost agricultural output and help feed the world’s biggest population.

The company in 2014 generated 75 percent of its revenue from crop protection such as pesticides, followed by its seed business, markets that would help ChemChina reduce its reliance on petrochemical and petroleum products, which accounted for almost half of its 256.4 billion yuan ($39 billion) in 2014 revenue.

Behind the Chinese company’s pursuit are national interests. Chinese President Xi Jinping is trying to boost agricultural output to maintain self-sufficiency as a growing middle class consumes more grain-intensive meat and farmland is converted to housing and golf courses. For more details on this story, visit Bloomberg: http://www.bloomberg.com/news.

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MEMBER NEWS FNGLA Saddened By Costa Farms wins the 2016 International Member Death Grower of the Year Award FNGLA is saddened to report the death of Michael Paul Mueller, age 58 of Winter Springs. Mike passed away on Thursday, January 28. Born August 5, 1957 in Akron, Ohio, Mike is the son of FNGLA Past President Russ Mueller and his wife Doris and leaves behind wife, Susan and two children.

Mike was Operations Manager of Mulch For You (formerly Bolling Forest Products). Cards can be sent to Russ and Doris at PO Box 520147, Longwood, FL 32779.

Costa Farms, USA, has been awarded the distinct honor of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) International Grower of the Year 2016.

Celebrating the world’s best ornamentals growers, the AIPH International Grower of the Year Awards 2016 - Gala Dinner took place January 28, during IPM Essen, Germany.

Classified Ad Low Cost Thermal Energy at 15 acre site: Waste to Energy project has heat, hot water, steam etc., available at low cost next to WTE gasification of waste into electricity and thermal energy project. Perfect site for greenhouses or other thermal energy uses. Dixie County location. For information contact: George St. Onge, RR Renewable Energy George@ RRREC.net 732-768-7007 or georgesaintonge@se2sol.com

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Costa Farms was presented with the Gold Rose, awarding them the global status of AIPH International Grower of the Year. This prestigious award comes on the heels of winning “Favorite New Foliage Plant” for the Aglaonema ‘Pink Dalmation’ and their booth winning “Best of Show” at the Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition earlier in January.

“We are proud beyond words to be recognized by this prestigious industry organization,” said Jose Smith, CEO of Costa Farms. “This honor is for the entire Costa team of 4,000 talented and dedicated employees who work day in and day out to bring our beautiful plants to consumers. Our team is driven to succeed and this award celebrates and validates our hard work and dedication to this industry.”

Ornamental growers from Canada, China, Germany, Netherlands, Turkey, UK were also honored, yet Costa Farms was the only U.S. business recognized. Costa Farms is one of North America’s largest growers of ornamental plants, regularly bringing new products to retailers on an international scale. It grows a wide range of plants, including houseplants, orchids, indoor and outdoor cacti and succulents, tropical shrubs, annual bedding plants, and perennial bedding plants.

INDUSTRY NEWS The Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF)

By Mac Carraway, EREF Executive Director I hope you know a little something about EREF, but if you don’t, then who the heck are we? Our roots run back several years to the flurry of local governments taking up restrictive rainy-season fertilizer blackouts and sales bans. A group of representatives of the Green Industry (which includes landscape, nursery, turf production and installation, professional lawn care, golf courses and sports fields) got together to oppose aspects of those local ordinances.

We believed then, and still strongly believe, those ordinances were contrary to good science and exceeded the well-vetted “Model Ordinance” created by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. We further felt they set a bad precedent leading to a slippery slope of public policy development which would adversely impact those of us who are involved in creating and maintaining Florida’s beautiful and environmentally sustainable greenspaces.

We already see such examples in proscriptive landscape ordinances which ignore the principles of Florida Friendly Landscaping and which try to severely limit plant and turf choices.

Since those days, we have continued to stay actively engaged in these issues.

EREF has further evolved into an advocate for all of the Green Industry with a mission to educate (including funding university research) and inform elected officials and the citizens they represent about the benefits of responsibly designed and maintained lawns and landscapes. When necessary, we are also prepared to stand up to bad policy making. Through it all, the foundation of our message is the Green Industry has been advocating conservation and natural resource protection for decades – we were doing it before it was cool as they say. Clean-water outcomes and water conservation successes around the state are most certainly the beneficiaries of our adherence as an industry to good science, peer-reviewed research and a love for our State which is second to none.

Mac Carraway, Executive Director Environmental Research & Education Foundation

I invite you to learn a little more about us at www.EREFlorida.com. You will see we have a pretty good list of trade organizations (including the FNGLA!) which believe we are on to something. We also have some strong links and resources for you to use and download. We even have a place where you can enroll to help us out financially, should you be so inclined.

Calendar 2016 is going to be an important year for EREF and for the Green Industry. With last month’s passage of comprehensive water legislation in Tallahassee, the way is clearer for a discussion how our industry can improve the public’s understanding about what we do, how we do it and the care we take in our management practices. When that happens, there will be fewer efforts to tell us what to plant, where to plant it and how to take care of it. That’s OUR wheelhouse, that’s OUR way of life and we need to make sure the world knows it.

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MEMBER NEWS The Mission of FNGLA FNGLA’s mission is to promote and protect the interests of Florida’s nursery and landscape industry. The following core principles guide the governance and management of FNGLA: Organizational Excellence; Member-Focus; Collaboration and Partnerships; Leadership in Agriculture; and, Continuous Improvement. Don’t just read the newsletter. Be a part of FNGLA!

Welcome New Members

The following are new FNGLA members from December 22, 2015 - January 21, 2016

FNGLA’s Chapters are organized by county.

To find your chapter, locate your location and refer to the chapter name online at http:// www.fngla.org/chapters/index.aspx to determine who to contact locally.

1. Action 2. Big Bend 3. Broward 4. Central East Coast 5. Coastal Springs 6. Miami-Dade 7. Frontrunners 8. Highlands Heartland 9. Polk

10. Manasota 11. Northeast 12. Palm Beach 13. Panhandle 14. Pinellas 15. Royal Palm 16. Space Coast 17. Tampa Bay 18. Treasure Coast

ACTION Creative Walls and Landscaping Inc. Jeffrey Germeroth 26714 Oak Shadow Ln Mount Dora, FL 32757 352-874-9610 Rec’d by: Keith Truenow, Lake Jem Farms Groundforce Steven Balderson 2738 Maxwell Dr Apopka, FL 32703 407-463-1406 BIG BEND City of Sunrise Diego Santana (Supportive) 10500 NW 55th St Sunrise, FL 33351 954-572-2393 Ami Emanuel (Student) 705 NE 2nd St #8 Hallandale, FL 33009 305-300-2272 The Plant Man Landscape & Design Alex Kantor Full PO Box 442 Lloyd, FL 32337 850-997-1008 COASTAL SPRINGS T-Mobile, Inc. Jason Halperin 3245 Downan Point Dr Land O’Lakes, FL 34638 727-560-6024 Rec’d by: Salvatore Chillura, Landscape Pros, Inc.

INTERNATIONAL Island Planters Aliyah David Lot C, Don Miguel Extension Rd, San Juan Port Of Spain, Trinidad WI 868-674-8265 Ex 2269

NORTHEAST CLS Landscaping of North Florida LLC Sam Bryie 4527 Marquette Ave Jacksonville, FL 32210 904-619-3937

MANASOTA Commercial Insurance Marketing Inc. Drew Varner 7303 Merchant Ct Sarasota, FL 34240 941-373-3888

OUTISDE FLORIDA Bottomley Evergreen Ann Jordan 6460 Glade Valley Rd Ennice, NC 28623 336-657-3347

Euro Quarries LLC Agnes Zielinska 5007 132nd Ave E Parrish, FL 34219 941-264-4320

DIG Plant Co. Sam McCoy PO Box 2108 Mount Pleasant, SC 29465 843-849-1272

MIAMI-DADE A Pietig Concrete and Brick Paving Andrew Pietig 188 Bessie Rd Tavernier, FL 33070 952-220-2609

Global Minority Labor Solutions Paulette Bekolo 1008 Corwith Dr Morrisville, NC 27560 919-610-2883

Brian Brown (Student) 19220 SW 129 Ct Homestead, FL 33177 786-436-1018

Mistletoe-Carter Seeds Harold F. Schaff 780 Glen Annie Rd Goleta, CA 93117 805-968-4818

La Casona Garden Ana Miron 23400 SW 187th Ave Homestead, FL 33031 646-269-4665

Supreme Growers LLC Marybeth Gannon 4543 Turntable Rd Chattanooga, TN 37421 561-202-7537

Miami Dade Water & Sewer Dept.

Jose Martin (Supportive) 3071 SW 38 Ave Miami, FL 33146 786-552-8569

PANHANDLE Elite Lawnscapes, Inc. Zach Politte Full 7487 Deck Ln Pensacola, FL 32526 850-291-8039 Rec’d by: Keith Sylvest, Coastal Machinery

PANHANDLE Hartman Enterprises Rick Hartman 5744 Promise Ln Milton, FL 32570 850-981-0099 Rec’d by: Keith Sylvest, Coastal Machinery ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance Brett Granger (Associate) 148 Shannon Ln Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 850-267-9988 PALM BEACH Koi Smart LLC Alexander Castro 6440 Garden Rd Riviera Beach, FL 33404 561-408-2739 Native Green Cay Nursery Mike Jameson 12750 Hagen Ranch Rd Boynton Beach, FL 33437 561-496-1415 TREASURE COAST Southeast Ladder Company Josh Dillon 7000 SE 138th St Hobe Sound, FL 33455 863-697-0197 Terra Nova Research & Development, Inc. David Keen 217 Hibiscus Ave Stuart, FL 34996 772-285-2546

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Calendar of Events

Contact Us

See and submit events at http://www.fngla.org, under calendar

February 11-12: The Jacksonville Landscape Show, Jacksonville Fairgrounds, Jacksonville 13-15:

Orlando Gift Show, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando

19:

Reducing Water Use in Agricultural Operations, South Florida Water Management District Headquarters, West Palm Beach

20: FNGLA Certified Landscape Maintenance Technical Exam, SeaWorld, Orlando 22:

First Day of ISA Certified Arborist Course & Exam, Oakland Park

25:

Perceptions of Florida Ag Water Use, Free Webinar

March 3-4:

Biocontrols USA 2016 Conference & Expo, Monterey, CA

4:

Florida Pomegranate Association 2016 Growers Meeting, Wimauma

9-10:

FloraHolland Seasonal Trade Fair, Naaldwijk, Netherlands

11-20:

Canada Blooms, Direct Energy Centre, Toronto, Ontario

5-13:

Philadelphia Flower Show, Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia, PA

31-1:

The Native Plant Show, Osceola Heritage Park, Kissimmee

FNGLA Phone: 407.295.7994 Toll-free: 800.375.3642 Fax: 407.295.1619 E-mail: info@fngla.org Web: www.fngla.org

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Ben Bolusky

GREENLINE EDITOR Jennifer Nelis jnelis@fngla.org

2015-2016 STATE OFFICERS

President Billy Butterfield, FCLC AmeriScapes Landscape Management Services, LLC PO Box 568762 Orlando, FL 32856-5041 (407) 872-0855

President-Elect Robert Shoelson Getting Green Plant Services & Betrock Information Systems PO Box 840107 Pembroke Pines, FL 33084 (954) 680-1819

Past President Sandy Stein The Jungle Nursery 29100 SW 162 Ave Homestead, FL 33030 (305) 246-5324

Secretary/Treasurer Ed Bravo Big Trees Plantation, Inc. 104 SW 131 St Newberry, FL 32669 (352) 332-2150

Connect with us: About FNGLA This publication is produced by the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) as a service to its members and the industry at large. 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 interests of Florida’s nursery and landscape industry.

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1533 Park Center Drive Orlando, FL 32835-5705

Read the latest FNGLA news inside & visit Greenline online at http://greenline.fngla.org