FNGLA's May 2015 Greenline

May 2015 | Volume 36, Issue 5

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

FNGLA’s Floriculture Field Days: Three Trial Sites, Top Breeders, More!

Next week the industry’s top floriculture breeders and professionals converge at FNGLA’s Floriculture Field Days, May 13 & 14 at three prominent Central Florida locations: Walt Disney World Nursery; Harry P. Leu Gardens; and, UF/IFAS Orange County Extension Service. Growers, landscape professionals and garden center retailers are gearing up to take in tips, details and information on the industry and the 68 varieties of plants being trialed! The 2015 event features select varieties in three different settings – with educational sessions and jam-packed happenings and countless opportunities!

and Performance Trials

The two-day event includes visits to each of the three trial sites, in-field learning with Disney Horticulture’s landscape experts, a garden tour and free time at the 2015 Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival, a breeder showcase, opportunities to interact with industry vendors, and traditional classroom sessions. Mixed throughout the event are many opportunities to network with your peers and industry experts. From floriculture industry trends to new plants and ideas, there will be new, innovative, and implementable concepts to take back to your business.

WILL-BROWN

HOLLAND ARTHUR

DARDEN

SHEPHERD

SCOTT

KENNEDY

FNGLA’S FLORICULTURE FIELD DAYS EXPERT PRESENTERS Continued page 3

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Sandy Stein FNGLA 2014-2015 President

Fueled by Volunteers, You Can Make a Difference “Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.”

– Andrew Carnegie The FNGLA is fueled by a staff of loyal, paid, hard-working professionals, as well as many volunteer members who often give countless hours and even years of their time working toward the betterment of our industry for nothing more than their own desire to give back -- to be a part of the larger group they understand has worked for their benefit for years before them. Most of our staff has been with this Association for many years. Through the worst of these past years, they individually assumed responsibilities and continue assuming responsibilities that intimate a love for this Association that always leaves me in a state of awe.

This Association would not resemble itself without them as they are an indispensable part of our team.

The volunteer members, whose agenda our staff gladly carries out, are made of folks from the various segments of our industry, operating both at Chapter and state FNGLA levels. Many seem to have invested more energy for this Association than they have for their own businesses. Sylvia Gordon is the poster-child for just this kind of volunteer. Sylvia is a past winner of the Wendell Butler Award for her outstanding years of service. She continues tirelessly giving of herself both at the Chapter and state levels, serving on both FNGLA Chapter and state Boards and committees, pushing us all to follow through on our commitments. She has always kept me on my toes which is why I have always asked for her help.

Ed Bravo, our FNGLA Secretary-Treasurer nominee is another example of a great volunteer. Ed has operated

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at both his FNGLA Chapter and the state level, giving untold hours of his time. I know Ed will do a great job for us as he works his way up the ladder of officer positions. Like Billy Butterfield, our incoming FNGLA President and Rob Shoelson, our PresidentElect nominee, there are so many volunteers who have given their time throughout the years. Most serve for a limited number of years and step aside to allow others an opportunity to take their turn. It is this kind of volunteer of which we really need an ongoing supply.

New blood keeps fresh ideas coming to FNGLA. This Association needs to remain vital and growing, steering a course that represents the interests of all our members, our team.

Yes, this is a call to your service – a call to join the volunteer team that has grown this Association to be the largest state nursery and landscape association in the country with the clout and backbone to which we always turn for our input on all manner of issues.

FNGLA serves as a model of what an association can be. Call your local FNGLA Chapter office and tell them you wish to volunteer wherever your interests lie.

You can start as part of a local committee or maybe serve on your local Chapter Board. Wherever you start, you will be appreciated and you will feel like you are making a difference as being a part of something valuable, a part of something much larger than yourself.

Sandy Stein The Jungle Nursery (Miami) sstein@junglenursery.com

Continued from page 1

Top Reasons to Attend: • See, in action, the latest plant varieties breeders see as successes to Florida’s heat and humidity for 2015 and beyond.

• Rejuvenate your passion for business and be one step ahead of your competitors by knowing which varieties will be great additions to your key client’s landscapes.

• Learn marketing, maintenance and design strategies from top floriculture industry experts.

• Meet face-to-face with breeder representatives and gather key information from allied sponsors that will help safeguard your business.

• Pick up tips from colleagues as you tour all three trial garden sites.

2015 Breeder Participants:

FNGLA members can register for the full conference up until May 11 for just $175! Non-FNGLA members pay $200. This event is a must-attend for anyone looking to stay on the cutting edge of floriculture trends or be “in the know” on the latest plants hitting the Florida market!

2015 CONFERENCE SPONSORS

THE

SUNTORY® COLLECTION

FNGLA HAPPENINGS FNGLA Convention Sizzles in Tropical Miami!

Taking place June 12 & 13 at the Westin Colonnade in Coral Gables, the FNGLA Convention offers a diverse schedule of activities with a mix of business information, garden inspirations and sizzling salsa (as in a big salsa band) fun.

Come in Thursday, June 11 to take advantage of the shopping, historic buildings and nearby beaches for which Coral Gables and Miami are famous. Then join friends in the FNGLA Miami Dade Chapter Hospitality Suite before taking advantage of the diversity of restaurants located within easy walking distance of the hotel.

Friday’s schedule includes exclusive tours of the renowned Montgomery Botanical Center, which houses one of the world’s largest cycad and palm collections, as well as the gardens at Vizcaya, a historic residential landmark in South Florida. The FNGLA Board of Directors will meet Friday afternoon. Friday evening is a Cuban Nights Reception in the extraordinary neoclassic, marble-tiled rotunda of the Westin Hotel. Men, feel free to wear your Guayabera shirt and linen slacks and, ladies, lots of ruffles and bright colors, polka dots and stripes are all very in for Cuban women’s attire. With an authentic salsa band providing the music, salsa gowns and glittering suits, as well as dancing shoes, are welcome!

Saturday morning’s program focuses on the state of the industry and the Association as part of FNGLA’s Annual Business meeting. Included in the morning will be the presentation of FNGLA’s Industry Awards to this year’s winners, as well as the election of FNGLA’s new officers. See who’s won the industry awards: http://www.fngla.org/recognition/industry-awards.

Saturday afternoon offers plenty of open time to enjoy the Westin’s Mediterraneanstyle rooftop pool space. Or how about a complimentary tour of three of Homestead’s most popular agriculture/agri-tourism spots: R.F. Orchids, Robert Is Here Produce and Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Miami Brewing Company. This tour is provided by Dade County Farm Bureau as a special welcome to FNGLA members attending the convention.

The finale of the convention occurs at the Presidents’ Gala, where the passing of the big shoes tradition continues. This year, FNGLA President Sandy Stein will pass the big shoes to incoming President Billy Butterfield. Keynote speaker at the Presidents’ Gala will be Florida State Representative Katie Edwards who, as former executive director of Dade County Farm Bureau, has close ties with South Florida agriculture and horticulture. As the evening concludes, it will be time to put the dancing shoes back on as Tom, the-too-tall-Italian deejay (back by popular demand) plays everyone’s favorite dance music.

Not only does FNGLA’s convention offer a valuable and diverse program, it does so at exceptional pricing thanks to the many convention sponsors. Registration options provide for single event purchases, yet the best option is a Full Package for only $135 if registered by June 2. The Full Package includes Friday’s Cuban Nights Reception, Saturday’s continental breakfast, FNGLA’s Annual Meeting, the Presidents’ Gala, access to the FNGLA Miami-Dade Chapter Hospitality Suite, as well as a chapter welcome gift. An option to attend Montgomery Botanical Center and the Dade County Farm Bureau Ag The tour is available at no extra fee. The Vizcaya admission price is only $15.

Access more convention details online at http://www.fngla.org/events/annualconvention, or contact Linda Adams at 800-375-3642, for additional information, including how to sponsor this special event.

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Reservations for the Westin Colonnade are now being accepted at the FNGLA group rate of only $139. The cutoff date to receive the group rate is May 20 and the hotel rates will increase. Use the online reservation system at http://www.fngla.org/events/ annual-convention/location.aspx or call 305-441-2600 to reserve your accommodations. Included in the rate for FNGLA Convention participants is complimentary Wi-Fi in the guest rooms and public areas and complimentary self-parking.

FNGLA HAPPENINGS

Thank You 2015 Convention Sponsors

FNGLA Treasure Coast Chapter | Arborbrace | BWI Companies | Ferlita, Walsh & Gonzalez, P.A. Getting Green Plant Services, Inc. | Integrity Merchant Solutions (IMS) The Jungle Nursery | Parrish Nursery | Tradewinds Power Corp.

FNGLA HAPPENINGS FNGLA Announces New Slate of Officers for 2015-2016 FNGLA’s Nominating Committee announces its recommended slate for FNGLA’s 2015-2016 officers.

President-Elect Billy Butterfield (AmeriScapes Landscape Management Services in Orlando) automatically advances to FNGLA President. FNGLA’s Nominating Committee nominates Robert Shoelson (Getting Green Plant Service in Fort Lauderdale and Betrock Information Systems in Hollywood, FL) as FNGLA’s President-Elect. Ed Bravo (Big Trees Plantation, Inc. in Ocala) is nominated as FNGLA’s Secretary/Treasurer. Current FNGLA President Sandy Stein (The Jungle Nursery in Miami) automatically advances to FNGLA Past President for this membership year.

Incoming FNGLA President Billy Butterfield became active in FNGLA through his interest in its landscape certification programs. He has served on FNGLA’s Certification Committee and is one of the most experienced and rigorous certification exam judges.

Billy served FNGLA’s Action Chapter in many capacities, including president.

He has served on the FNGLA Board of Directors as an officer and as Action Chapter’s Board Representative. Billy has been on FNGLA’s Membership Committee, The Landscape Show Committee and FNGLA’s education committees. He sits on many local advisory boards and committees and is a graduate of the UF/IFAS Wedgworth Leadership Institute. Billy owns AmeriScapes Landscape Management Services in Orlando.

Nominated to serve as President-Elect, Robert Shoelson has grown up in the nursery and landscape industry starting with Betrock Information Systems in 1992 and Getting Green Plant Service in 1998. He is active on FNGLA’s Certification, Short Course and Budget Committees. Robert has served on FNGLA’s Board of Directors as Woody Division and Broward Chapter Board Representatives. He was president of FNGLA’s Broward Chapter three times and is active in several industry groups, including the Landscape Inspectors Association. Robert is a Certified Landscape Inspector and has earned two FNGLA professional certifications -- Landscape Contractor and Horticulture Professional. He was named the FNGLA Young Nursery Professional of the Year in 2006-07. Robert

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is the owner and president of Getting Green Plant Services in Fort Lauderdale and the COO of Betrock Information Systems in Hollywood, FL. Nominated to serve as FNGLA Secretary/Treasurer, Ed Bravo was born in Santiago de Cuba and immigrated to the United States one year later. His family lived in Miami until Ed was nine years old when they then moved to Gainesville. Ed earned an A.A. degree from Santa Fe Community College in 1985. His nursery and landscape career began six years earlier when he started working as a landscape laborer. Within just two years, he became the production manager at a Gainesville area nursery and then for ten years he was the sole proprietor of Moonlight Landscape. In 1996, Ed became the General Manager of Big Trees Nursery and in 2001, he became a partner of Big Trees Plantation in which capacity he continues. He has been a longtime board member of the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Spring Garden Festival. Ed has served FNGLA Frontrunners Chapter in many roles, including two stints on its board of directors and its 2006 president. He represented the Frontrunners Chapter on the statewide FNGLA Board of Directors from 2009 to 2013. Ed is a member of the FNGLA Endowed Research Fund Steering Committee advising the UF/IFAS Dean of Research which industry research projects are worthy of FNGLA funding.

Sandy Stein automatically moves from president to FNGLA Immediate Past President. Sandy started in the nursery business in 1981. Serving FNGLA’s Miami-Dade Chapter in many capacities, including president, Sandy served on the FNGLA Board of Directors as an officer and as the Woody Division Board Representative.

He also chaired FNGLA’s Membership Committee. Sandy is a graduate of the UF/IFAS Wedgworth Leadership Institute and has served on local nursery boards and committees. He is the owner of The Jungle Nursery in Miami and also a licensed psychotherapist.

FNGLA officer elections take place during FNGLA’s Annual Meeting on Saturday morning, June 13 in conjunction with the 2015 convention in Coral Gables.

FNGLA MEMBERSHIP IS A GOOD BUSINESS DECISION MEMBER BENEFITS & DISCOUNTS Commercial Vehicle Discount

Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. provides FNGLA members special discounts on the purchase of any new Isuzu commercial vehicle from any Florida Isuzu dealership.

Credit Card Processing Discounts

Integrity Merchant Solutions offers members special FNGLA group benefits including: no hidden fees, free cost comparisons, no early termination fees, ability to use your old equipment, and working with all card types and offering check processing and gift card programs.

Employment Law Hotline

This Law “Hotline” offers advice to FNGLA members needed assistance with wage & hour, OSHA, I-9 issues and workers’ compensation retaliation claims.

Group Life Insurance

Take advantage of discounted rates on group life insurance for yourself, family members and your employees. The program features Guaranteed Issue Amounts up to $50,000 with no medical exams required.

Promotional Benefits & Visibility

FNGLA’s growers, retail garden centers & landscape professionals are enrolled in the Fresh From Florida campaign promoting Florida’s plants throughout the Southeast and giving you access to Fresh From Florida member benefits.

Online Marketing

PlantANT.com offers FNGLA members five complimentary plant listings in the newly relaunched FNGLA Locator now hosted online by PlantANT. FNGLA members with more than five listings qualify for a 5% PlantANT discount. You can also track your results with real time statistics and upload images with PlantANT’s smartphone app. Access PlantANT at www.fngla.org/ locator.

Online Marketing

Use PlantFinder’s PlantSearch online system to increase your exposure to plant buyers and suppliers. FNGLA members can receive an Online Plant Booth at www.PlantSearch. com to manage online listings and pictures. FNGLA members can choose both print and online advertising with member discounts or up to 5 free online listings. FNGLA members and loyal PlantFinder advertisers also receive free PlantFinder banner ads and 5 listings (Total Monthly Value up to $72.50). Get started today! Call 800-627-3819 or email info@plantsearch.com.

Payroll Processing Discount

Tired of being treated like a number? You can outsource your company’s payroll without giving up the flexibility and personal attention you need. MasterPay USA will keep you in compliance and make payroll easy. FNGLA members are eligible for an exclusive 15% discount on published payroll processing prices. The discount is immediate and on-going -- not an introductory rate.

• FREE Direct Deposit and Web Access • Automated payment of all Federal, State & Local payroll taxes • Garnishment administration with electronic Child Support Payments

More Programs, More Details on the flipside!

FNGLA HAPPENINGS Printing, Graphics and Marketing

For complete details of each benefit program, visit www.fngla.org/ membership/benefits

Creative is the One-Stop-Shop for all printing, graphics and marketing needs of FNGLA members. With its special online system www. my4color.com, it’s easy to order everything from business cards to large signs at FNGLA member discounts! Among its many professional services, Creative offers FNGLA members an exclusive FREE 2-hour marketing consultation (worth over

$500) with report & recommendations; 15% discounts off web and logo designs; and, monthly specials & coupons.

ADVOCACY Government Relations

FNGLA protects your business interests in Florida’s Legislature, regulatory agencies and Florida’s Water Management Districts. FNGLA distributes news alerts and weekly Bullets keeping members fully informed of timely industry hot topics and FNGLA business issues.

Protecting Your Bottom Line

FNGLA fights to protect and promote your business’ bottom line in Tallahassee every day. Issues like ag water, immigration, fertilizer use, Greenbelt, taxes & private property rights are just a few top industry issues where we focus effort.

FNGLA-PAC

FNGLA-PAC is a separate fund which supports candidates who promote and protect nursery & landscape industry’s interests in Tallahassee.

FNGLA-PAC’s sole purpose is to increase visibility and provide campaign assistance - on a bi-partisan basis - to Florida state legislators and candidates who actively support our industry.

FNGLA PROS

FNGLA members have access to FNGLA’s Policy, Regulations & Operations Standards (PROS), an online resource library featuring business practices for Florida’s nursery and landscape industry.

VISIBILITY FNGLA Website

With thousands of monthly hits and even more traffic during trade show months, the FNGLA website is the hub for everything FNGLA. Members have the opportunity for great exposure and receive discounted advertising rates. www.fngla.org

Proud Member of FNGLA

Being an FNGLA member provides marketplace and industry credibility. As a member, you have access to the “Proud Member of FNGLA” logo for use in your advertising, website and business.

Membership plaques are also available.

Greenline E-Newsletter

Published every month, this member e-newsletter is online so you can read even more about FNGLA. Members are featured in news articles picked up by search engines and news feeds. Average FNGLA member savings on advertising is over 20%

Discounts on FNGLA Education and Events, Certifications & Trade Show Booth Space FNGLA members enjoy reduced pricing to attend educational events; on FNGLA certification manuals and exam fees, plus enjoy a lower certification renewal price; and, FNGLA members receive approximately 30% off the non-member booth price on both TPIE and The Landscape Show booths.

Consumer Public Relations

FNGLA promotes our members and their plants, products and services at a host of industry and consumer-related events including industry trade shows, the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, through FloridaGardening.org and the Florida Garden Select program.

Recognition

FNGLA honors project excellence through FNGLA’s Landscape Awards program and industry commitment through FNGLA’s Industry Awards.

FNGLA on the Web http://greenline.fngla.org | www.fngla.org/locator www.floridagardening.org | www.nationalfoliagefoundation.org www.facebook.com/FNGLA | www.twitter.com/FNGLA

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1533 Park Center Drive | Orlando, FL 32835 (407) 295-7994 voice | (800) 375-3642 toll-free | (407) 295-1619 fax | info@fngla.org

FNGLA HAPPENINGS FNGLA’s Landscape Awards: Submit Best Projects by July 17 Celebrate “the best of the best!” in Florida landscapes: FNGLA’s Landscape Awards program is accepting nominations now through July 17.

FNGLA’s Landscape Awards bring excellence and prestige to your business portfolio. The entry categories and applications are straightforward and submitted on-line. And, you can now even submit twice as many digital images of your landscape entry! Florida landscape projects installed and completed since January 1, 2012 are eligible for submission.

Are you one of the BEST? FNGLA’s 2015 award–winning landscape projects will be showcased on the main stage at The Landscape Show in Orlando, September 24 - 26. Higher-level “special recognition” awards will be revealed. Submit your very best landscape projects as this is a grand opportunity for FNGLA to help promote and position your landscape firm as one of the very best in the state!

Submit New Installation; Redesign/Renovation; and, Maintenance projects in the following categories: Residential Single-Family; Residential Community; Commercial; Theme Park; Institutional/Public; Interior Project; Special Project; Student Project; and, Environmentally Sustainable Site. Special Awards include: FNGLA S.J. Blakely Award; FNGLA Floriculture Award; FNGLA Florida Friendly Landscape™ Award; and, FNGLA Roy Rood Award. Projects must be submitted

by Friday, July 17 for this year’s program. Contact FNGLA at 800.375.3642 for more details or access details online at http://www.fngla.org/recognition/landscape-awards.

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INDUSTRY NEWS National Foliage Foundation: A Primary Funding Source for Foliage Industry Research The National Foliage Foundation (NFF) continues to build a strong framework for the foliage industry by providing ways to continuously fund research and education. NFF’s conservative approach over the last 25 plus years has allowed for future generations to reap the benefits.

Whether to address a production issue, distribution problems or developing controls for industry’s pest threats, NFF works hard to identify and fund projects that will give back to the industry. Almost $500,000 has been awarded to fund research grants.

Projects such as The Impact of Living Green Walls on Student Attitudes, Moods, and Academic Performance conducted by Dr. Terry Ferriss, (PI) Professor of Horticulture, CPH, at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI; and, Comparisons of Growth and Water Use of Irrigation Systems During Production of Budded Citrus in Phyto-Sanitary Greenhouses conducted by Dr. Richard Beeson at UF/IFAS MREC, Apopka, FL are examples of research NFF supports.

Research documenting the positive effects of the presence of plants on human mood and mental health in interior environments has been reported by other researchers for office and medical facility environments. This study focused on the impact of a living green-wall in an academic classroom setting. The living wall was installed in January 2015. Surveys of students were implemented in mid-March in both classroom settings as well as with focus groups in the room.

Standardized psychological tests and surveys were administered to experimental groups of students and to students who were enrolled in classes in the classroom with a green-wall and in an identical paired classroom without the presence of plants. The preliminary results revealed a significant difference in student responses between the classrooms. Students in the green-wall room scored significantly higher for personal restorative measures and significantly higher for happiness and peppy measures. The presence of plants in an academic classroom could potentially create a more positive learning environment compared to a room without plants. The results were reported at the National Convention on Undergraduate Research in Washington State by the undergraduate students involved in the research.

Data is still being analyzed and should be available in the Summer 2015.

This is just one of the many research projects funded by NFF. Join NFF’s team of supporters! You are the one that can help students realize their dreams and become part of the industry’s future. You are the one who can fund research providing new opportunities. Whether your gift is big or small...it is truly you who will make the difference! For more information about giving to the National Foliage Foundation, visit www. nationalfoliagefoundation.org or contact Linda Reindl lreindl@fngla.org.

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INDUSTRY NEWS Lowe’s Announces Phase Out of Neonicotinoids & Industry Responds Home improvement retailer Lowe’s companies recently announced their commitment to eliminate neonicotinoid pesticides from its stores in a gradual phase-out over the next 48 months.

Lowe’s said, in the release of its Corporate Social Responsibility Report, it will phase out neonics in shelf products and plants by the spring of 2019, as suitable alternatives become available.

“Lowe’s is committed to regularly reviewing the products and information it offers customers,” the CSR states. “Following studies that say many factors, including neonicotinoid pesticides, could potentially damage the health of pollinators, Lowe’s has committed to take several steps to support pollinator health. Lowe’s will phase out the sale of products that contain neonic pesticides within 48 months as suitable alternatives become commercially available. Lowe’s will include greater organic and non-neonic product selections, work with growers to eliminate the use of neonic pesticides on bee-attractive plants it sells and educate customers and employees through in-store and online resources.”

Last year, BJ’s Wholesale Club, a warehouse retailer said it was asking all of its vendors to provide plants free of neonics by the end of 2014 or to label such products.

Home Depot, the largest U.S. home improvement chain, also asked its suppliers to start labeling any plants treated with neonics and that it was running tests in several states to see if suppliers can eliminate neonics in their plant production without hurting plant health.

Among the industry’s responses, the American Floral Endowment (AFE) is funding a new research project to examine the health of honey bees on ornamental plants following treatment with neonicotinoids and other systemic insecticides. The two-year research project - “Impact and Residual Activity of Systemic Insecticides in Ornamental Plants,” with Clemson University researchers J.C. Chong, Steven Klaine and Jennifer Tsuruda - will document the translocation of systemic insecticides to various plant parts.

Honey bees are valuable to commercial crops and the pollination they provide is appreciated by flower, fruit, vegetable, nut and agriculture growers. But since the early 1950’s, honey bee colonies have declined. The declines have been associated with the presence of the varroa mite that transmits a virus to bees, loss of food sources for the bees, climate change and pesticides.

In recent years, more rapid declines have occurred, which has been referred to as colony collapse disorder (CCD). Use of the systemic pesticide category, neonicotinoids, has been linked to CCD due to the presumed presence of the chemical in pollen and nectar following drench or spray applications.

“This research will expand our knowledge about one of the multiple factors often cited as being related to CCD,” says Terril Nell, Ph.D., Research Coordinator for AFE. “Armed with solid scientific facts, the floral industry can continue to assure consumers that their landscape plants and flowers are safe for honey bees and other pollinators.”

Researchers will examine the pesticide residues in the pollen, nectar and leaves of treated plants following pesticide applications and document the impact on the behavior and health of honey bee colonies.

Read more about the industry’s response via Greenhouse Growers coverage: http://www.greenhousegrower.com/production/ crop-inputs/lowes-announces-commitment-to-phase-out-neonicotinoids-by-2019.

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Connecting the Industry INDUSTRY NEWS Across the Southeast July 21 - 23 2015 Atlanta Georgia Georgia International Convention Center

SNA 2015 combines the SNA Regional Marketplace with the Southern Plant Conference,

the SNA Research Conference, the SNA Annual Business Meeting, the SNA State Officer’s Conference, and SNA Day @ for one unparalleled industry event!

Plants... Featuring the best plants ornamental trees, shrubs, and color from top growers across the region

Products... Featuring the latest in retail, landscape and outdoor living products, garden gifts, accessories and more

People.. Connect with the industry’s most forward thinking growers, breeders, researchers, retailers, landscapers, manufacturers, and distributors from across the Southeast

Education and More... Educational sessions for retailers, growers and landscapers by top industry experts

www.sna.org

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Dr. Richard T. Olsen has been named as the Director of the USDA-ARS United States National Arboretum (USNA) in Washington, DC. Dr. Olsen leaves his post as a Research Geneticist and Lead Scientist in the Floral and Nursery Plant Research Unit (FNPRU) at the USNA for the new position. He has served as Acting Director of the USNA in 2014 and most recently as Acting Assistant Director of the USDA-ARS Beltsville Agricultural Research Center.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Richard Olsen to this very important leadership position.

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INDUSTRY NEWS Florida Agriculture Literacy Day Reaches More than 58,000 School Children Across the State

Nearly 900 industry participants including Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam H. Putnam read in honor of the 2015 Florida Agriculture Literacy Day reaching more than 58,000 elementary students statewide, according to Agriculture Literacy Day’s sponsor Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc.

More than 58,000 students across the state learned about Florida Agriculture as part of Florida Ag Literacy Day, April 21. Commissioner Adam Putnam read to fourth graders in Tallahassee.

The event took place on April 21 and was the 12th annual Agriculture Literacy Day. Florida Agriculture in the Classroom (FAITC) and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) worked together to organize the event.

Commissioner Putnam kicked off Agriculture Literacy Day by holding a press conference and reading to fourth graders from Governor’s Charter School at the Old Capitol in Tallahassee. Commissioner Putnam applauded the agriculture industry’s participation in the event. “Florida Ag Literacy Day helps our next generation learn about the Floridians who provide everything from beef, pork and poultry to strawberries, oranges and corn to meet the needs of the world’s growing population,” he said.

“Agriculture Literacy Day wouldn’t have been nearly as successful without the help of Commissioner Putnam and our industry volunteers,” said Tamara Wood, chairman of Florida Agriculture in the Classroom and representative from Florida Citrus Mutual. “We depend on our grass root network of volunteers, and appreciate everything they do for us.”

Volunteers read “Drive Through Florida: Livestock and Poultry,” a new non-fiction book about Florida’s livestock industry and the first in a new series of Florida Agriculture Literacy Day books that each year will feature a different segment of the industry. The book was written by Arlette Roberge and illustrated and designed by Ann Kinsey and Mark Cason of the FDACS’ Division of Marketing.

Florida Agriculture in the Classroom - a Gainesville-based, non-profit organization funded by the agriculture specialty license tag or the ‘Ag Tag’ - provided volunteer readers with a book and a resource disc with activities related to the book to give to teachers and bookmarks and stickers to give to students. Florida Agriculture in the Classroom is charged with educating kindergarten through 12th grade teachers and students about Florida agriculture. It does so by providing curricula, materials, grant money and programs to teachers to help them incorporate agricultural concepts into their language arts, math, science and social studies classes, among other activities. Its resource materials are correlated to Florida educational standards.

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INDUSTRY NEWS SNA Show and Southern Plant Conference: July 21 - 23 in Atlanta The Southern Nursery Association (SNA) has announced July 21 - 23 as the dates for the SNA Show to be held at Atlanta’s Georgia International Convention Center (GGIC). SNA 2015 is a fusion of The Southern Plant Conference (July 21), the SNA Research Conference (July 21 & 22), the 117th Annual SNA Business Meeting (July 23), the SNA State Officer’s Conference (July 24), and the SNA Regional Marketplace (July 22 & 23).

The event provides a marketplace for networking; learning; sourcing; launching new products; and, cultivating new business relationships. Attracting breeders, growers, retailers, landscapers, researchers, manufacturers, distributors, and service providers from across the Southeast, the SNA Regional Marketplace will feature plants and related garden products. The product mix will include ornamental trees and shrubs, color, related landscape and outdoor living products, garden gifts and accessories, seasonal products, and more.

Dr. Charlie Hall, economist and professor in the Department of Horticultural Sciences and Texas A & M University and also holder of the prestigious Ellison Chair in International Floriculture, will deliver the keynote address at SNA. Special business-building sessions will also be offered.

The event expects more than 2,000 industry professionals. GICC, the venue for SNA 2015 offers convenience for attendees, a world-class airport connected to a world-class convention center and plenty of rooming options at the edge of a world-class city. Atlanta’s SkyTrain is a free light rail train which links GGIC to Hartsfield, Jackson International Airport. Learn more about this event at www.sna.org.

Dr. Charlie Hall

FNGLA Members Among ‘Community of Excellence’ Finalists Three FNGLA member businesses/certified professionals are among six businesses named as finalists for the Community of Excellence awards in the industry-related award category “Florida Friendly Landscape.”

Congratulations to the following: • • •

PSA Horticultural, Oldsmar (Tom Picciano, FNGLA Certified Horticulture Professional) for Dockside at Ventura Clintar Landscape Management, West Palm Beach (FNGLA Member Firm & Shane Humble, FNGLA Certified Horticulture Professional and Landscape Maintenance Technician) for Evergrene Dameron Designs, Spring Hill (Daniel Dameron, FNGLA Certified Horticulture Professional) for Wellington at Seven Hills

The winner will be announced in May at the Communities of Excellence conference taking place Friday, May 15, at the Bonaventure Resort & Spa in Weston. FNGLA is partnering with the Florida Association of Native Nurseries and the University of Florida to bring educational information about using Florida Friendly plants and to communicate the benefits of FNGLA certified professionals as part of the conference’s exhibits. For more details, contact FNGLA at info@fngla.org or call 800.375.3642.

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INDUSTRY NEWS New 2,900-Home ‘Agrihood’ AFE Announces More Than $310,000 in Research Funding: Planned for Central Florida UF Researchers Are Recipients An Orlando developer is moving the farm-to-table concept to residential development with plans for a new 1,237acre mixed-use development near the University of Central Florida. Project Finance & Development LLC announced plans to start construction in 2016 on a new 2,900-home working farm community, known as an “agrihood.”

The American Floral Endowment (AFE) has approved more than $310,000 in scientific research project funding for 2015-2016 to support six continuing projects and five new projects. “These projects will directly benefit the entire industry by providing information on production of insect and disease free plants and details of Botrytis infection on floral crops,” said Terril Nell, Ph.D., Research Coordinator for AFE. The goal of all AFE research is to provide knowledge that helps the industry grow stronger. In the area of disease management, Dr. Zhanao Deng, University of Florida, $31,500 (year one of three) for his project Engineering Impatiens for Resistance to the Devastating Disease Downy Mildew. And, in the area of plant breeding and genetic engineering, Dr. Thomas A. Colquhoun, University of Florida, $33,000 (year one of three) for his project Making Better Plant Products by Understanding Dynamic Facets of Metabolism.

More than 150 free online research reports on a variety of topics that focus on important industry issues are available at Endowment.org/research.

Centered around a 9-acre revenue-generating farm with single-family homes, the project embraces sustainability as a core concept and includes 17 acres of community gardens, edible walking trails, scenic pastoral spaces, fishing ponds, an equestrian center, neighborhood parks and elementary school around Lake Tanner, said a news release. It also will be designed to be bike- and pedestrian-friendly, with 7% less pavement to reduce vehicle use and instead encourage walking or biking.

Amenities will include a central gathering area in and around an authentic barn for social events, farmer’s market, restaurant serving food grown in the community and shops.

“This is a unique opportunity for our company to introduce Orlando to a new residential concept where the emphasis is on sustainable living by integrating farming into neighborhoods,” said Dwight Saathoff, president of Project Finance & Development. “It will be a landmark community in Central Florida influenced by past generations when people lived off the land growing their own foods and sharing with neighbors. There will be a nostalgic atmosphere throughout the community from the overall aesthetics of the development to the social aspects and outdoor activities.”

Horticultural Research Institute Offers $20,000 in Scholarships The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI) is pleased to announce it is accepting scholarship applications for the 20152016 school year. Scholarships are made possible by seven special HRI endowment funds that aid students who are seeking a lifelong career in horticulture. HRI and its member firms consider graduating students in horticulture to be the lifeblood of the green industry.

Applications must be completed using the HRI online application form. The deadline to apply is May 31, 2015. For complete details visit the HRI website at www.hriresearch.org.

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MEMBER NEWS 31st Annual Dick Fuhr Memorial Fishing Tournament To Take Place June 5 & 6 June 5 & 6 will bring many FNGLA & industry faces together for the 31st Annual Dick Fuhr Memorial Fishing Tournament, at Islamorada MM 83.4 near the Chesapeake Beach Resort, which serves as the host hotel for the event. The evening prior is the Captain’s Meeting, taking place at 7 p.m. at the Islamorada Fish Company (MM 81.5).

UF/IFAS’ Dr. Bob Rouse honored at FNGLA Citrus Nursery Division Spring Workshop in recognition of 25 years of service to Florida’s citrus nursery industry.

Costa Farms’ Solar Initiatives “Sustainability is a top priority for Costa Farms and for the communities where we live and work,” says Jose Smith, president and CEO of Costa Farms. “With almost 250 days of sun annually, we think Miami could be the leader in solar energy.” By the end of May, the company will rely on solar panels for 25% of its energy use.

861 solar panels covering 22,386 square feet will generate approximately 386,534 kilowatthours with zero greenhouse gas emissions annually is being installed at their headquarters in Homestead.

The annual CO2 offset is 493,487 pounds, which is equivalent to planting 56 acres of trees.

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Sponsored by the FNGLA Miami-Dade Chapter, the tournament has a long history for not only providing an excellent sporting event, but has raised more than $150,000 for the National Foliage Foundation and honors industry pioneer Dick Fuhr. Dick founded Universal Enterprises Supply Co. (Pompano Beach) and he was an original founder of the Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition (TPIE) show.

Prizes for the Top 3 Dolphin, Outstanding Catches and the best Hard-luck story will be given. For details on participating or to sponsor the event, contact Chris Oppenheimer at 305-345-3529.

MEMBER NEWS Roberson Elected Chairman of Farm Credit of Central Florida Board Farm Credit of Central Florida (FCCF) President and CEO, Reggie Holt announced the cooperative’s Board of Directors has elected Zellwood Nursery grower, Robert R. “Robbie” Roberson as chairman, succeeding, David J. Stanford. “Robbie brings great wisdom, and statesmanship to the board. FCCF has been blessed with astute and visionary leadership in the chairman’s position for over 40 years with Al Bellotto, Sr., David J. Stanford and now Robbie,” Holt said.

Roberson is a nurseryman who has lived and grown plants in the Apopka area for over 40 years.

He was appointed to the FCCF board to fill a vacant seat in 1997 and has successfully been re-elected to three year terms ever since.

Ben Bolusky, CEO of the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association, said, “A natural business leader, Robbie Roberson is a highly respected pillar of Florida’s tropical foliage and houseplant industry. He is a gifted bridge-builder as the business community often turns to Robbie whenever an issue needs engagement with state legislators and elected local officials.”

Roberson

$2 Million in Profits Returned to Area Farm Credit Members Farm Credit of Northwest Florida is set to give $2 million dollars back to nearly 850 members this year, who primarily live, operate or own farms in our northwest Florida rural communities. This refund is the equivalent of approximately 15.6% of the interest earned on each member’s loan during the last year, and is paid entirely in cash.

“We’re delighted that our Association is in such a strong financial position that we’re able to return a substantial refund to our members again this year,” said Farm Credit of Northwest Florida president and CEO Rick Bitner. “As a cooperative, we succeed and grow together with our members and local farmers. We’re glad to have the opportunity to share this exciting piece of success with them.”

FNGLA’s Lake Region Chapter held its May meeting at Bok Tower Gardens.

David Price, the garden’s director, led the chapter’s tour.

FNGLA’s Big Bend Chapter held its May meeting at May Nursery (Havana). Richard May showed participants the property.

At the Royal Palm Chapter Meeting, Chapter President Phil Buck (Crawford Landscaping, Naples) presented a check to FNGLA-PAC.

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Apply online at www.fngla.org or use this form

INDUSTRY NEWS 1533 Park Center Dr., Orlando, FL 32835

1

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

COMPANY NAME ____________________________________________________________________________________

CONTACT NAME (ONE PER MEMBERSHIP) MR./MS._____________________________________________________________ MAILING ADDRESS ________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY ______________________________________________ STATE ___________________ ZIP ______________-__________ COUNTY __________________________________________ FAX __________________________________________________ PHONE ___________________________________________ TOLL-FREE/OTHER PHONE _______________________________ COMPANY E-MAIL _________________________________ DIRECT E-MAIL ___________________________________________ COMPANY WEB SITE ______________________________________________________________________________________ REFERRED BY____________________________________________________________________________________________

2

Must be a current FNGLA Member. Please include name and company.

rank your business mix (1= largest source of sales, 2 = second largest etc. uP to six codes)

___ Allied Supplies / Services

(Allied businesses support the nursery/landscape industry. i.e.: ceramics, fertilizer, insurance, etc.)

___ Citrus Nursery

q Retail q Seed q Budwood

___ Floriculture ___ Foliage ___ Cut Foliage/Cut Ferns

3

___ Garden Center ___ Institutes/Schools ___ Interiorscape ___ Miscellaneous ___ Trees ___ Woody Ornamentals ___ Resort/Facility Manager ___ Parks/Recreation/ Gardens ___ Urban Forester

choose membershiP

4

___ Irrigation Contractor ___ Golf Courses ___ Florist ___ Chain Retailer ___ Supermarket ___ Student ___ Research ___ Broker ___ Re-wholesaler ___ Wholesale Florist

additional membershiPs

Active Firm by Gross Sales

q

q Less than $500,000

$360

q $500,001 to $2 million

$515

Parent FNGLA Member Firm: _____________________________________

q Over $2 million

$770

q Supportive

$75

6

q

Affiliate Firm

$200

Affiliate Member

$150

Name_________________________________

q

Associate Member

$75

Name_________________________________ Contact the FNGLA office to add additional memberships.

___ Associations ___ Media ___ Building Contractor/ Developer ___ Government ___ Landscape Contracting ___ Landscape Maintenance ___ Landscape Architecture ___ Landscape Design

5

___% Commercial / ___% Residential

fngla-Pac

Voluntary FNGLA Political Action Committee Contribution q $500 q $250

q $100 q Other________

FNGLA-PAC is a separate fund which supports candidates who promote and protect nursery and landscape industry’s interests in Tallahassee.

ACTIVE FIRM

THIS CATEGORY HAS VOTING PRIVILEGES AND FULL BENEFITS • • • • •

Check Enclosed (payable to FNGLA)

q

MasterCard

SUPPORTIVE

THIS CATEGORY DOES NOT HAVE VOTING PRIVILEGES AND LIMITED BENEFITS • • •

Government employees Instructors Retired horticulturists

ADDITIONAL MEMBERSHIPS AFFILIATE FIRM •

Additional Firm owned by an Active Firm. This category has voting privileges. No limit.

AFFILIATE MEMBER q

Visa

q Discover

Card #_______________________________________________________________ Expiration Date _______________________

•

Print Name (as it appears on card) ____________________________________ Signature _________________________________ Billing Address___________________________________ City_____________________________ ST/Zip ___________________ In applying for membership, I agree to abide by the Association Code of Ethics. I certify that the information contained herein is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and that nay information found to be false may be grounds for denial of membership or removal of membership. Contributions to the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association, Inc. are not tax deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. However, dues payments are deductible by members as an ordinary business expense. Authorized use and display of the FNGLA logo is limited to current members. Unauthorized use will be subject to legal action in Lake County, FL and all attorneys’ fees and costs paid by the person using the said logo.

7

Growers/nurseries Landscape firms Garden centers Allied suppliers Consultants

Dues based on company’s gross sales (see box 3).

Payment information

TOTAL (SECTIONS 3 - 5) $ ____________________ q

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP CLASSIFICATIONS

X ______________________________________________________________ Date ______________________________

Employee of an Active or Affiliate Firm. Voting privileges. Limit 1.

ASSOCIATE MEMBER •

Employee of an Active or Affiliate Firm. No voting privileges. No limit.

NEW MEMBERS 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!

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

Welcome New Members The following are new FNGLA members: from March 22, 2015 - April 21, 2015 ACTION Southeast Soils Matt Biegler PO Box 297 Oakland, FL 34760 407-496-2872 Progressive System Solutions Inc. Colleen Schils 4019 Clarcona Ocoee Rd Orlando, FL 32810 407-523-7676 BROWARD Perfect Choice Nursery Haydee Amezquita 4700 Southwest 186th Ave Southwest Ranches, FL 33332 954-445-7234 CENTRAL EAST COAST Deland Truck Center Inc. Doug Nosbisch (Affiliate Firm) 1208 S Woodland Blvd Deland, FL 32720 386-734-8740 MIAMI-DADE City of Miami Parks & Recreation Department Amanda Fiallo (Supportive) 444 SW 2 Ave 8th Fl Miami, FL 33130 305-416-1300

Oglesby Plants International, Inc. Jennifer Rojas (Associate) 2043 SE 12th St Homestead, FL 33035 786-339-0325 Tenusa Inc. Nicolas Bofill 5838 SW 74th Ter Miami, FL 33143 305-495-1075 MANASOTA Austin Outdoor LLC Nick Crutcher (Associate) 6108 33rd St E Bradenton, FL 34203 941-224-8225 Marchbank Lawn Service Randall Marchbank 6432 Easy Goer Ct Sarasota, FL 34240 941-735-6682 OUTSIDE FLORIDA DescribeIt David Marciniak 814 S Blue Ridge Ave Culpeper, VA 22701 540-308-5411

PANHANDLE Gum Creek Farms Don Fife 1097 N Highway 83 Defuniak Springs, FL 32433 850-892-0291 Lobello, Duhon, Lobello, LLC Chuck Lobello 297 W Miracle Strip Pkwy Mary Esther, FL 32569 850-585-3003 Bellview Site Contractors Clay Wise 3300 Godwin Ln Pensacola, FL 32526 850-944-5388 J. Miller Construction Eli Miller 8900 Waring Rd Pensacola, FL 32534 850-982-1652 Rec’d by: Tim Dickens, Coastal Machinery

PALM BEACH Black Gold Tree Farm, Inc. Russ Taylor 17118 50th St N Loxahatchee, FL 33470 561-718-0896 Rec’d by: Damon Rocket, A Cut Above Landscape & Maintenance PINELLAS White Magnolias Nursery, Inc. Jesse Woods 1320 Pinellas Pt Dr S St Petersburg, FL 33705 727-235-4760 ROYAL PALM Spectrum Landscape & Lawncare, LLC Nicholas Potestio 5400 Yahl St Ste H Naples, FL 34109 239-260-5146 Rec’d by: John Schwind, Steele Truck Center TAMPA BAY Landscape Maintenance Professionals Inc. Kelly Ann Vickers (Associate) PO Box 267 Seffner, FL 33583-0267 813-757-6500

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Calendar of Events

Contact Us

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

FNGLA

May

13 & 14: FNGLA’s Floriculture Field Days, Orlando 13 & 14: Florida Water Star Training & Exam, Beach Community Center, Ft. Lauderdale

June 5:

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 Chemical Spill Response Training, Hampton Inn, Boynton Beach

5-6: Dick Fuhr Memorial Fishing Tournament, Chesapeake Beach Resort, Islamorada 9:

2015 Coast Series Seminars, Gulf Coast Research & Education Center, Wimauma

9-11:

National Lawn & Garden Show, Embassy Suites Dallas-Frisco, Frisco, Texas

11:

GI-BMP Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Best Management Practices, Osceola Heritage Park, Kissimmee

12-13:

FNGLA Annual Convention, Coral Gables, FL

17:

Florida Citrus Industry Annual Conference, Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa,Bonita Springs, Florida

1533 Park Center Drive Orlando, FL 32835-5705

Read the latest FNGLA & Industry news online at http://greenline.fngla.org

Ben Bolusky

GREENLINE EDITOR Jennifer Nelis jnelis@fngla.org

2014-2015 STATE OFFICERS

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

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

Past President Mike Marshall Marshall Tree Farm 17350 SE 65th St Morriston, FL 32668-4508 (352) 528-3880

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

Connect with us: 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 interests of Florida’s nursery and landscape industry.