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TAKE ONE July, 2015
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TAKE ONE No. 147
The Basil Battle: New Cultivars on the Horizon to Beat Downy Mildew By Tom Castronovo Executive Editor
Jack Rabin/Photo
Rutgers Professor James E. Simon, left, and Rutgers plant breeding Ph.D. student Rob Pyne in the Rutgers NJAES Research Greenhouse.
For the past seven years, a familiar scenario has been playing out on farms and in gardens across the United States. A healthy, fragrant crop of sweet basil begins to display yellowing leaves. Upon closer inspection, the undersides of the leaves show signs of a menacing grayish sporulation. It is only a matter of time before the basil plant and others in proximity succumb to this new disease of basil, downy mildew. Neither a fungus nor a mold, downy mildew is the common name for a group of highly specialized plant pathogens called “oomycetes” that infect and feed off living host plants. Each downy mildew is specific to its host plant. For instance, downy mildew of impatiens, another recent scourge, is specific to impatiens, while basil downy mildew affects only basil – with the most popular type, sweet basil, being the most susceptible. Basil downy mildew favors heat and humidity, and by mid- to late-summer, when there is enough inoculum, the disease is widespread in our region. According to Rutgers Extension Specialist in Vegetable Pathology Andy Wyenandt, basil downy
mildew can’t overwinter in our region and can only survive the winter in southern Florida and Texas, where it is a year-round threat. The rapid spread to northern states during the growing season is through the planting of infested seed, by importing southerngrown plant material, or via weather patterns coming from southern states. Plant pathologists have tracked its spread across the U.S. since it was first identified in Florida in 2007. A few years prior, basil downy mildew made its way across Europe after it was initially reported in 2001 in Switzerland. The rapid spread of the disease is intriguing in light of the fact that for decades it was never found beyond the area of its original detection in Uganda in 1933. It has been speculated that the pathogen may have evolved into a more aggressive form and its rapid spread was enabled by seed- and air-borne spore dispersal. The arrival of basil downy mildew in the U.S. has left growers and gardeners flabbergasted and with few options to save their plants. It has required a coordinated effort by agricultural scientists to develop a strategy necessary for battling this new threat, which affects 100 percent of the basil crop. Once basil plants become infected and develop (Continued on Page 22)
2 July, 2015
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July, 2015 3 Rocking Their Hits!
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4 July, 2015
Gardener News
Peaches, blueberries, plums, tomatoes, corn, pears, green beans, beets, cabbage, carrots, Chard, cucumbers, herbs, lima beans, peas, peppers, potatoes, squashes and so much more are now fully in season. What we have available that is grown, harvested, packed or offered for direct sale is truly an amazing lineup that is the envy of many states. Along with our fruits and vegetables that are in season, there also are many opportunities to combine these delicious expressions of nature with New Jersey seafood, meat, poultry, eggs, honey and wine. Everyone, I think, needs to experience the act of buying fresh agricultural products that were just harvested. It is a reminder of the connection we all have to the earth and its ability to provide sustenance for us. I say this because, as a grocer before I became Secretary of Agriculture, I observed that many folks came to our store each week and truly had lost the alignment to fresh food. Often they simply were not sure what to do with local farm-produced output.
New Jersey farmers. Farmers are great resources for learning how to prepare new produce. Ask them how to cook the items you’ve chosen and then go home and put your own spin on it. Produce sold at the farmers markets is usually as fresh as it gets, being picked within hours of arriving at the market. As you shop for New Jersey produce around the state this season, share with us what Jersey Fresh items you have tried and how you have prepared them through your social media, using #JerseyFreshLove. Happy cooking.
NJ Dept. of Agriculture By Douglas H. Fisher Secretary of Agriculture When Jersey Fresh is in Season, Create Your Perfect Recipe Not being sure led them to processed foods in many cases. Opening a box, can or frozen food takes all the guess work out of preparation. However, I challenge you at this time of the year to let the foods of the season express themselves. It is fine to capture a recipe that you have gotten on Pinterest, for example, but sometimes just let your own creativity find its way to a meal. Have you ever grilled a peach, or even a watermelon? See how it turns out. Did you ever wonder what it would taste like mixing your own salad, combining, let’s say, cucumbers, tomatoes, basil with a fruit or vegetable you’ve never seen before in a dressing you sort of concocted? Now is the time, because the abundance of what we grow is all around us, beckoning us to
try. It is great fun, too. You might even discover you have crafted a dish that others in the family would like to replicate. That is how recipes become family heirlooms. Farms in New Jersey are constantly growing new varieties of old favorites, as well as exotic offerings. A few years ago, you would not have found on our farms such crops as striped eggplant, daikon, beach plums, kiwiberries, Asian pears, bitterballs and peppadews. Try them, experiment and enjoy. When I go into the kitchen, I usually cook soups, using whatever I find in the market or in the refrigerator at the time. I might pick up escarole, and even though I’ve never made escarole soup before, I throw it in the pot, exploring different
Look Who’s Reading the Gardener News!
It’s in the news
Tom Castronovo/Photo
American actor and game show host Richard Karn, best known for his co-starring role as Al Borland in the 1990s sitcom Home Improvement, looks over the Gardener News on a recent trip to the Garden State. Karn played a master plumber and licensed contractor on the show-within-ashow Tool Time. He was also host of Family Feud from 2002 to 2006. The show features a competition in which two families must name the most popular responses to a survey question posed to 100 people in order to win cash and prizes. In 2013, TV Guide ranked Family Feud third in its list of the 60 greatest game shows of all time.
bases and flavors, adjusting the concoction to my palate. No two soups are exactly the same when I make them. A great catalyst for this type of creativity is membership in a Community Supported Agriculture farm. When you buy a share in a CSA, you never know what you will get in your basket of produce. It could be garlic scapes, dandelion greens, fennel or any number of items, some that you have eaten before and some that you might not have ever seen before. This gives members a chance to try new, healthy items and expand your repertoire when preparing meals. Stop in at one of our 150 community farmers markets or our numerous roadside stands and enjoy the wide array of produce available to you from
Editor’s Note: Douglas H. Fisher is New Jersey’s Secretary of Agriculture. He is the department’s executive officer, secretary to the State Board of Agriculture and a member of the Governor’s cabinet. Secretary Fisher fulfills executive, management and administrative duties prescribed by law, executive order or gubernatorial direction. He can be reached at 609.292.3976. For more info, please visit: http://www. state.nj.us/agriculture
Gardener News
July, 2015 5 Meeting and Talking to Farmers
Tom Castronovo/Photo
A regular trip to a farmers market is one of the best ways to connect with where your food comes from. The Downtown Somerville Farmers Market in Somerset County, which is located in the borough’s Division Street Plaza, opened on June 4. State Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman, left, stopped by to meet and talk with a few local farmers and to pick up some delicious Jersey Fresh bounty for his family. While he was there, he helped Tom Scamenck from The Country Stand in Washington Township, Warren County, hang up a Jersey Fresh banner. The market, which has become a community hub, is open every Thursday from June 4 until November 19, 2015, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
A truly patriotic garden By Kathleen Salisbury What better way to celebrate Independence Day than with native plants? How about with native plants that feature the colors of the American flag? For a truly patriotic garden, try planting these native trees, shrubs and perennials. Blueberries – With white flowers, blue berries and brilliant red fall color – blueberries are just as American as apple pie. Found in every county in the state, with a little soil amending, blueberry bushes make a terrific addition to the landscape and, of course, a delicious pie. You may get straight species of blueberries, New Jersey features both highbush and lowbush varieties. Though not as full and robust as some of the more popular red-fall color shrubs that shall remain nameless in this article, blueberries will give them a run for their money in the color department. Viburnums – There are many species of viburnums native to New Jersey. But
one, in particular stands out when it comes to being considered for its patriotic contribution to the garden. Like Blueberry, Viburnum dentatum, Arrowwood Viburnum, is also found in every county in the state. Unlike Blueberry, it is less persnickety about its growing conditions. Tolerant of a wide range of pH, soil types and exposure, every landscape can include an Arrowwood. Named for the fact that native Americans used the strong shoots of suckers to build their arrows, this shrub features white flowers in spring, blueberries in summer, quite often persisting into fall and winter, as well as glossy red fall color. Admittedly, the fall color isn’t always a brilliant red. Depending on location, soil type and selection, the fall color can range from yellow to reddish-purple. Viburnum nudum, Possumhaw Viburnum, is another for consideration in your celebratory landscape. White flowers in spring are followed by berries that begin pink and slowly age to a dark blue. The glossy leaves (listed as less frequently browsed
by deer) turn vivid red in fall, brightening any autumn landscape. Virginia Creeper – Much maligned by many as an aggressive weed and sometimes even called an (gasp) invasive plant, this native vine’s blue berries provide an important autumn food source for birds and small mammals. It can be quite an ornamental groundcover or vine as the palmately compound leaves turn red in the fall. The flowers are greenish-white but are often overlooked because they bloom after the leaves emerge and are often hidden by the leaves. Lobelias – Combine Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower), Lobelia syphilitica (Great Blue Lobelia) and Lobelia siphilitica alba (Great White Lobelia) in your garden for a fireworks display of color in the summer. OK, the real fireworks may be the hummingbirds that visit, but combining these three native perennials in various parts of your garden will add another dimension to the landscape
while adding diversity that pollinators find irresistible and deer find, well, resistible. Dogwoods – Not the flowering dogwood that may come to mind when you hear “Dogwood,” but the collection of native blue-fruited varieties. Included in this group are Cornus alternifolia (Pagoda Dogwood), Cornus amomum (Silky Dogwood), Cornus racemosa (Gray Dogwood), Cornus sanguinea (Bloodtwig Dogwood). All of these dogwoods feature spring clusters of white flowers, blue/ purple berries in fall and the potential for red fall color. Also, in the case of C. sanguinea you have the added bonus of red twigs in the winter. C. racemosa hangs onto the red stems of its fruit well after the berries have fallen, adding another ornamental feature to the garden. An added benefit to including some of these in your landscape is that they are considered highly beneficial to a great variety of wildlife. Pollinators of all sorts – longand short-tongued bees, moths, butterflies, flies and beetles.
Small mammals and many birds also find value in these nutrient-rich, fat-filled berries. The suckering habit of these shrubs also create perfect shelters and protected areas for a variety of songbirds. The plants listed above have the familiar red, white and blue and will add diversity in color, seasonal fruits and flowers. Not only will planting these light up your landscape, but you will attract an equally impressive diversity of colorful insects, pollinators, moths, butterflies and birds. And of course, that is what planting natives is really all about. Editor’s Note: Kathy Salisbury is a Horticulture Educator and the President of the Native Plant Society of New Jersey (NPSNJ). The NPSNJ is a non-profit membership organization dedicated to promoting the appreciation, protection and study of NJ’s native flora. To learn more about the Native Plant Society please visit www.npsnj.org or contact Kathy directly at president@npsnj.org.
6 July, 2015
RUTGERS NJAES/RCE From the Director’s Desk
Rutgers Outreach Provided by Larry S. Katz, Ph.D. Sr. Associate Director Genetically Modified Crops: The Overlap of Public and Scientific Margins The issue of genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, is polarizing within the ag and food communities, in large part because of fear and distrust by consumers of a technology that by its nature is highly complex, and due to the ire raised about how GM crops have been sold and their patents enforced. Besides the issue of intellectual property and commercialization, fears of unknown food safety effects, the narrowing of crop genetic diversity and potential ecological disasters are among the threats of concern. There has also been considerable effort by many GMO opponents to bring the technology itself into disrepute. While there is opposition to GM crops concerning corporate ownership and enforcement of patents on food crops, most land-grant universities, including Rutgers, also protect their intellectual property by patenting traditionally bred crops and enforcing those patents. An issue associated with the ownership of technology is the reduction of the genetic diversity, or “gene pool,” of a crop species by focusing on a single genotype. This again pertains both to traditional breeding and GM technology, as all plant developers benefit from the largest gene pools within their breeding stocks and aggressively seek to expand them. While currently available GMO foods are limited in terms of crop species and technology deployed, the potential of transgenic plant technology is great. Examples of developed or developing WHFKQRORJLHV LQFOXGH ³*ROGHQ 5LFH´ WKDW FRQWDLQV WKH YLWDPLQ $ SUHFXUVRU ȕ FDURWHQH DQG FRXOG be an invaluable adjunct in preventing blindness and death worldwide, and a rice-based, edible rotavirus prophylaxis and therapy that could be instrumental in decreasing this developing disease. Overall, these technologies are still young and relatively little has been invested in their development. The recently released non-browning Arctic apple and non-bruising Inate potato, and the well-established Rainbow papaya, each rely on very different genetic modifications and are examples of GM plants developed either by a university or a relatively small company. Current labeling of GMO food is done proactively by food producers and distributers. USDA certified organic foods are by definition GMO-free – the certified organic label alone is sufficient to assure a food is GMO-free. Foods that are not certified by USDA as organic may also be GMO-free and be labeled as such, in accordance with policy of the Food and Drug Administration. These labels are effective tools for producers who wish to market to an audience that wants GMO-free food. From the marketer’s standpoint, the important thing is whether customers will buy foods, especially fresh market vegetables, they know were made with transgenic technology. The recent study from Rutgers professor Dr. William Hallman and colleagues suggests that public awareness and knowledge of GMO foods is relatively low, but that public opinion about GMO foods is generally negative. As a result, nearly 75 percent believe that labeling of GMO foods should be required. Unfortunately, studies examining how consumers receive and process scientific information about the safety of GMO foods are not encouraging. For the complex issue of GM crops and foods, scientists from Rutgers and elsewhere will continue to provide their best research and information, as we do for other contentious subjects, such as climate change and evolutionary biology. Last year, state legislation was introduced in New Jersey that would require labeling of all GMO foods (S91 and A1359). Unfortunately, these laws are directed against the technology used to develop GM crops without regard to the broad diversity of genes, many themselves of plant origin that may be introduced into the GM crops. Unlike providing information about specific ingredients, calorie content, or allergens in foods, labeling foods simply as “GMO” lacks value in educating consumers about food content. This spring, a federal bipartisan bill creating voluntary food labeling while pre-empting state-specific labeling laws such as the one under consideration in New Jersey was introduced in the House of Representatives. Rutgers NJAES plant scientists have developed and released many ornamental and crop plants: turfgrass, dogwood, holly, asparagus, cranberry, raspberry, tomato, peach, nectarine, apricot, and apple are past releases. More recent developments include Rutgers Scarlet Strawberry and Scarlet Lettuce varieties, and other plants in our breeding program pipeline include hazelnut, basil, and pepper. None of the plants currently in release or in development are classified as GMOs, so from the standpoint of immediate commercialization, we are not affected by pro- or anti-GMO legislation or sentiment. Projecting longer term, however, traditional breeding approaches cannot alone be expected to keep pace with the onslaught of invasive pests and pathogens in a rapidly changing environment. The potential to tailor some of our excellent traditionally bred varieties through addition of specific genes or DNA sequences could be a valuable approach for introducing resistance to emerging pests and pathogens and thus reducing pesticide use. Editor’s Note: This month’s column is written by Dr. Bradley Hillman, Director of Research and Senior Associate Director of the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, and a Professor of Plant Biology specializing in plant pathology. NJAES research is broad-ranging and encompasses all major areas of agriculture and the environment, including plant breeding and development programs. Dr. Hillman can be reached at 848-932-3777.
Gardener News
Rutgers 4-Hers Shine at County Government Day Three Cumberland County 4-H youth participated in Cumberland County Government Day on May 26. Karleen Wilford, Gabe Guenther and Nina Callavini are all Cumberland County 4-H members who had the opportunity to take advantage of this exceptional program. The students shadowed county employees and learned about their job, what skills are required, what subject areas are emphasized and the importance of working well with other people. Wilford and Callavini shadowed employees in the sheriff’s office. Gabe Guether, who attends Wallace Middle School, shadowed Rutgers Cooperative Extension liaison Freeholder Tom Sheppard and attended a mock freeholders meeting. 4-H Program Assistant Cheryl McCormick was deeply appreciative of the opportunity. “We are very thankful to Kim Wood and her staff for promoting such a wonderful youth development program each year. We were excited to have some of our members again participate in this exceptional leadership and life skills program.”
Newly Launched Community Supported Fisheries Offer Biweekly Shares of Jersey Seafood A growing number of New Jersey farms are offering community supported agriculture programs (CSAs) which allow customers to become a member or shareholder, providing them with a season’s worth of produce that they pay for in advance, and then pick up on a weekly or biweekly basis. A similar strategy to boost an allied industry, Jersey Seafood, has been in development in New Jersey since 2012. Through the efforts of the marine program of Rutgers Cooperative Extension (RCE) of Ocean County, a community supported fishery (CSF) has operated for the past three years as part of Sea Salt CSA at B&B Farms in Galloway Township in Atlantic County. The pilot CSF in Atlantic County has spawned several new CSFs this year, with one in Ocean County at Beach View CSA, one at Heirloom Kitchens in Old Bridge (a culinary boutique), and one at the Rutgers Gardens Farm Market in New Brunswick. Plans are in the works for others. What distinguishes the New Jersey-model CSF from others around the U.S., is rather than have seafood pick-up at a particular boat or dock that would limit the number of species offered, Marine Extension Agent Gef Flimlin of RCE of Ocean County arranged to work with a variety of fishing docks and shellfish farmers to diversify the offerings. To sign-up for the 2015 season Community Supported Fishery, visit http://heritageshellfish.com/members/types.
Atlantic County Senior Citizen Receives 4-H Volunteer of the Year Award Dorothy Calimer of Cologne, Atlantic County 4-H Volunteer, was recently recognized by the New Jersey Association of 4-H Agents with the 4-H Volunteer of the Year Award for her significant contributions to the New Jersey 4-H program. This award, which is presented annually, recognizes an individual or a group for outstanding professional educational support of the 4-H Youth Development Program of Rutgers Cooperative Extension. For more than 46 years, 82 year-old Dorothy Calimer, commonly known as Dot, has volunteered her time to many organizations, something that has been instilled in her since a very early age by her parents who were also volunteers. As a lifetime volunteer, Dot has had the opportunity to impact countless lives throughout the decades. Even now as a senior citizen, Dorothy is still going strong. Being able to meet people every day helps to keep her body and mind active, and her service impacts a variety of people from youth and middle-aged people to seniors and to the needy. Dot has been heavily involved in the Atlantic County 4-H Program. She was a dedicated leader, teaching youth how to sew, can, freeze and various other skills in the home economics program. Dot also volunteered to chaperone and transport many children to State 4-H events. Even after her children aged out of the 4-H Program, Dot continued her service, joining the Atlantic County 4-H Fair Association. Dot currently serves on the Executive Committee where she was president for 10 years and secretary for more than 15 years. During the week of the Atlantic County Fair, Dot is actively involved in setting up the week prior to the fair; helping with the chicken BBQ, and working as the fair secretary, every day of the fair from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Once the fair is over, you will find Dot right there alongside everyone else cleaning up. She also volunteers for the numerous events that the 4-H program holds throughout the year and serves on the Yearbook Committee and Family and Consumer Science Committee. Dot is a “volunteer-a-holic.” She never stops and brings an upbeat attitude to every event. She was named New Jersey Salute to Senior Service Winner in recognition of her years of service in 2013. For more information about the New Jersey 4-H Program visit the website at http://nj4h.rutgers.edu.
Gardener News
July, 2015 7 Around The Garden By Tom Castronovo Gardener News
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In my opinion, fire hydrants are a very important part of the landscape. As a former volunteer firefighter for almost 25 years and as a former landscape professional for most of my life, I was shocked to come across this fire hydrant. Without telling you what town it’s in to save embarrassment, I will tell you that it’s located in a residential condominium complex. Is it real? That was the first thing that came to my mind. I stopped my car to investigate. It’s a real hydrant. Many more thoughts came to mind as well. And they weren’t good. From my volunteer firefighter’s mind, I wondered how I would “catch” and “dress” the hydrant. From my landscape professional mind, I wondered what idiot built a wall encasing this hydrant and how it passed inspection. Then I wondered who the fire inspector is and why he or she hasn’t done anything about it. Let’s talk about catching it, or establishing a water source. This is when an engine pulls up to a hydrant and makes a complete stop. A firefighter will then remove a hose line from the engine and secure it to the hydrant by looping it around it to form a “U.” This keeps the hose line in place. He will then tell the driver that he can lay the line (s) to the fire by driving the engine toward it. Now picture a firefighter dressing this hydrant. This is when he or she will actually hook the hose line up to it. By looking at this picture, imagine a firefighter putting a hydrant wrench, which is just shy of two feet long, on top of this hydrant to get a water supply. In order for this hydrant to flow water, the firefighter must loosen the top bolt, which is actually a valve that releases the water after the caps are removed. Normally, the firefighter would grab the end of the wrench with both hands and walk around the hydrant several times, by pushing it and pulling it, to open the hydrant. There is no way that this hydrant is going to be opened easily with speed, if at all, in case of a fire. As you can see the block wall will not let anyone, including a firefighter, walk around it, or anything else. And if you look above it, there is an overgrown Taxus yew shrub that will also hamper the firefighter’s efforts. You can also forget about hooking up a hose line to either side of it. In my opinion, this is a classic lawsuit waiting to happen if someone’s home burns because the fire department had to look for another hydrant. This mind-blowing act of stupidity can possibly also cost someone’s life. The base of this hydrant is painted red. The top of it is painted blue. That means this hydrant is capable of flowing 1,500 gallons of water per minute, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA 291). Big fires need a lot of water. Last winter, everyone talked about shoveling out fire hydrants. Let’s not forget about their placement and their spring, summer and fall surroundings. I don’t know of any law that describes the surrounding landscape around a fire hydrant. With that said, please try and keep a five-foot diameter circle that is completely clear of any landscape material, including walls, shrubs and snow from them. And for heaven’s sake, don’t park in front of one. Now that’s a whole different story for another day. As always, I hope you find the information in the Gardener News informative and enjoyable. Until next time…Keep the “garden” in the Garden State. -Tom Editor’s Note: Tom Castronovo is executive editor and publisher of Gardener News. Tom’s lifelong interest in gardening and passion for agriculture, environmental stewardship, gardening and landscaping, led to the founding of the Gardener News, which germinated in April 2003 and continues to bloom today. He is also dedicated to providing inspiration, and education to the agricultural, gardening and landscaping communities through this newspaper and GardenerNews.com.
8 July, 2015
Gardener News
NJLCA Membership Meeting Morris Brick & Stone Company, a retail and wholesale masonry and landscape supply yard, located in Morristown, Morris County, NJ, recently hosted the New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association (NJLCA) membership meeting. Morris Brick & Stone is also one of the largest distributors of used brick in the New Jersey metropolitan area. The company was established in 1936 and continues to be family owned and operated. At 6 p.m. sharp, an Italian dinner buffet was served. The meeting started 30 minutes later with Jody Shilan, executive director of the NJLCA, thanking Morris Brick & Stone for hosting his association’s dinner meeting. Shilan continued with some association business. He even touched on deer-control issues. Next, Herb Goldberg, owner of Morris Brick & Stone, and his son Todd, vice president of the company, gave a brief overview of the company’s two locations. Then, Mark Pitcher of CST Pavers presented an introduction to Landscape and Engineered Products for use in a variety of applications. The presentation also addressed how a contractor can cost effectively utilize Segmental Retaining Walls to satisfy a variety of site solutions, economics of retaining wall installations, design processes and requirements and installation strategies and techniques. He finished with a hands-on demonstration. Attendees received one (1) CEU towards their ICPI re-certification. The NJLCA is a group of professional landscape contractors dedicated to advancing the integrity, proficiency and continued growth of the landscape industry. The association is a proven resource to both the landscape professional and consumer. Learn more about the association at www.njlca.org
Tom Castronovo/Photo
Matt Koski, left, owner of Koski Landscaping, checks in and picks up a name tag at the NJLCA registration table manned by Joe Bolognese, second from left, associate director for the NJLCA; Gail Woolcott, second from right, director of operations for the NJLCA; and Maria Albuquerque, administrative assistant for the NJLCA.
Tom Castronovo/Photo Tom Castronovo/Photo
Herb Goldberg, right, owner of Morris Brick & Stone, chats with Mark Pitcher of CST Pavers before the meeting started in Goldberg’s warehouse.
Jody Shilan, executive director of the NJLCA, makes a few remarks about the ongoing deer problems in the state as he highlighted one of the associate members of his association; New Jersey Deer Control.
Gardener News It seems like everyday there is something in the news about California running out of water. They have the strictest rules in the nation regarding water usage and have popularized the concept of Xeriscaping here in the U.S. Xeriscaping is landscaping with plantings that require little to no water. As things become more and more dire, California has now kicked it up a notch by paying (or crediting) homeowners who reduce the size of their lawns. The reason for this is that grass requires a significant amount of water to stay green, especially in warmer climates or where the soil is sandier. Naturally, living here in New Jersey, we don’t pay much attention to problems on the West Coast. We have plenty of our own to deal with. Well, today I’d like to have you take a few minutes and start thinking about water conservation before things become just as bad here on the East Coast. It’s a little ironic that I am writing this article on one of the rainiest days this spring. Or maybe it’s poetic. Now, I’m not a tree hugger, conservationist or pro or con on any environmentally charged political agenda. I consider myself a pragmatist. Although I A look at some of our lawns this spring, where we have had less rain than normal, may show a layer of stems, crowns, roots and undecomposed organic matter that is more than onehalf-inch deep. Although a perfect cover for that building in another clime, this thatch layer will prevent good air and water percolation and will increase the susceptibility of the lawn to disease and insect damage. Conditions which will increase thatch development are compacted soil conditions, the over application of nitrogen, over-watering, planting varieties which produce large amounts of tough, fibrous tissue and improper cultural practices. To find out how much thatch is in your lawn, take a core or remove a wedge of lawn with a spade and measure the amount of thatch from the soil surface to the grass blades. Many times a lawn choked in thatch looks to be beyond control. All hope is not lost, however. The first step is to test the soil. A soil medium which is stagnant will lead to compaction and an increase in thatch. Investigating what is going on in the soil will help alleviate
July, 2015 9 The NJLCA Today By Jody Shilan, MLA Executive Director
Lessons From California do love trees, I have had many taken down to install new landscapes and hardscapes. I have also added more than enough new trees to compensate for the removals. Probably somewhere on the order of 100:1. I am not a conservationist, but I hate wasting anything. This means food, clothing and yes, water. So here are some ways that you can conserve water in the landscape. Some are simple and straightforward, requiring nothing but some common sense and maybe a phone call. Others are a little more involved and require an initial cash outlay but the long term benefits will outweigh the expense. Let’s start with the your sprinkler system. For those of you that have an underground irrigation (sprinkler) system you should do a few things. First of all, you should check your heads
(or have your irrigation contractor do so) at least once a month to make sure they are functioning properly. This means checking for broken heads that spew hundreds of gallons of drinking water into the street every cycle. Sign a maintenance contract with your irrigation company that includes changing the settings each operating season so that you are not overwatering in the spring and fall or under-watering in the summer. If you don’t have a rain sensor, get one installed. Rain sensors turn the system off when it is raining or after there has been a long period of rain and the ground is saturated. If you want to go one step further, you can invest in a smart controller that manages the system automatically. If you are landscaping or re-landscaping your property, think about incorporating plants that don’t require a lot
of water, such as ornamental grasses (pennisetum, miscanthus, calamagrostis). Not only do they require a minimal amount of water, they are deer-resistant and can be divided in three years, giving you two to three plants for each one that you have. I’d like to see you get a 200- to 300-percent return anywhere like this anywhere else. For those of you that are doing a new hardscaping project that is over 500 square feet (patio, walkway, driveway, swimming pool, etc.) you will be required to install a drainage system including a minimum of a 500 gallon seepage tank to satisfy New Jerseys “Zero Run-Off” law. Seepage tanks capture the run-off from hardscape areas, allowing the water to percolate into the ground instead of running off into the streets and sewers, potentially overwhelming them and causing
The Landscaper By Evan Dickerson Landscape Professional
Thick as a Brick and Twice as Tough the core problems associated with these conditions. The pH will probably need to be addressed. Many times, the use of high-calcium lime is warranted. Acidic soil conditions will decrease the rate of decomposition, as will any pesticides which restrict earthworm and microbe activity. There are many products available which can be applied that will increase microbial and earthworm activity. During the growing season, the soil test results can be acted upon. Proper mowing can be implemented. Cut off no more than one-third of the grass blade whenever possible. Leave clippings on the turf whenever they cannot be seen readily after mowing. Aerate the lawn through the use of soil conditioners or by mechanically pulling cores from the lawn.
Water the lawn deeply and infrequently. This may be only once or twice a week, but you may need to water up to 60 minutes per area. Your yard’s exposure will dictate this as well. Lawns which bake in the summer sun will need more water than a shaded condition. You may need to adapt an automatic sprinkler system to target areas which are getting improper water. Your irrigation contractor can address improvements which will allow you to get this accomplished. When the thatch layer is more than one-half-inch thick and implementing soil test recommendations and improved cultural practices are not enough to see an improvement, then mechanical means may be necessary. In late-summer or early-fall, the removal of some of the thatch
layer may be necessary. The use of hand rakes made for thatch removal can be used on very small lawns. On larger areas, a power rake or vertical mower will be needed to expedite matters. This removal will open up the soil and, in the case of the vertical mower, will create a bedding area for seed. Choosing seed varieties which are adapted to the site is important. Shade conditions require blends which have more fescue varieties, sunny locations lean towards the blue and rye varieties, and hightraffic areas can use the turf type tall fescues. After the mechanical process is completed and seeding to upgrade the lawn is accomplished, your fertility program will need to be addressed. The use of organic products which will increase
local flooding. You may also consider following California’s lead and reducing the amount of lawn on your property. For all intents and purposes, grass is a groundcover. A groundcover that requires a lot of maintenance. Why not substitute other groundcovers, such as pachysandra, vinca (myrtle) or English ivy, which require practically no maintenance at all. They stay green all year and will reduce your annual mulch expense. But it’s tough to play soccer in them, so use them wisely. Editors Note: Jody Shilan, MLA provides landscape design services for landscape contractors and homeowners. Jody is also a professional speaker, green industry consultant and host of radio talk show, Landscape Live! He has a BSLA from Cook College, Rutgers University and an MLA from The University of Massachusetts and is currently the Executive Director of the New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association (NJLCA). He can be reached at 201-7832844 or jshilan@NJLCA.org the amount of microbial activity will help prevent the future buildup of thatch. Returning clippings into the lawn will help. Cutting of no more than one-third of the grass blade and keeping a sharp blade on your mower will help as well. You may even look into the use of reel mowers. There are many updated push mowers which are much more efficient and will afford some exercise time as well as helping reduce pollution. As your lawn recovers and fills in, continuing a natural organic fertility approach will increase the health of your lawn and the vitality of the soil. Keeping the soil in balance will prevent many weeds from returning. Your local landscape professional or garden center can help you analyze and cure your thatch issues. Editor’s Note: Evan Dickerson is owner of Dickerson Landscape Contractors and NaturesPro of North Plainfield. He has been pioneering the organic approach to plant health since 1972. Evan can be reached at 908-753-1490
10 July, 2015
Gardener News
Proper Trap Placements for Summertime Pests Summer is finally here, and as our gardens flourish, so do the pests that invade them. Throughout my travels, I often encounter do-ityourselfers trying to eliminate a variety of pests using various traps. Many times I can’t help but notice the poor placement of pest traps. I would like to share some tips on proper placement of various traps to effectively capture your target pest. One of the most common trap placement blunders that I encounter is placements of lure traps near areas where humans will congregate. I have witnessed a countless number of yellow jacket traps placed near pool yards and picnic tables. There are a variety of yellow jacket and wasp traps commercially available to reduce the number of these
stinging insects without using pesticides. These traps utilize either a commercially prepared lure, or a beverage or your choice (extra sugary sodas or beer would be my recommendation) to attract the insect to the trap. When you place these traps on or near the picnic table that you are eating at, you are actually enticing the stinging insects towards you. Stinging insect traps should be placed away from the areas that you are trying to protect. Traps should be placed by hanging them from trees, poles, or fences where people will not be spending time. Try to establish a perimeter of these traps along your property line, not near your home or garden. In similar fashion to the stinging insect trap, there are commercially available mosquito traps. Most of the mosquito traps that are available utilize a propane tank that fuels a unit that is designed to emit carbon dioxide, which will attract
mosquitoes within a certain radius. You do not want the center of the attraction zone to be your garden. If you choose to invest in one of these units, once again, keep it away from areas frequented by people, such as gardens, and outdoor dining areas. One of the most common summer garden pests also has a commercially available lure trap. The Japanese beetle trap, often easily recognized by the hanging bag full of bugs, is another attractant type trap. Most of these traps are actually sold with pole-type stands from which to hang the trap. The lures available with these traps are highly attractive to Japanese beetles, making it once again extremely important to place these traps away from you roses and veggies. Japanese beetle traps should be placed upwind of your garden, not in it. Also, follow the labeled instructions for the number of units you should use. Often, multiple units may be necessary to get a
desired level of control. Traps are not only for insect pests. Another common summertime invader is the groundhog. There are various types of live traps available to get rid of this common excavator. The common box-style live trap can be an effective tool if placed correctly. Sometimes you have to study your target a little before placing a trap. Often I see traps placed directly next to a groundhog burrow. Although you will occasionally trap a groundhog with trap placement near the burrow, a better solution is to place the trap where the groundhog is feeding. Leave a trail of bait leading up to the trap. Make sure bait is placed behind the trigger plate, not in front of or on the trigger. Be creative with your bait choices when trapping a groundhog. As a general rule, use whatever the groundhog may be damaging or eating out of your garden. If your tomatoes are getting
eaten, using a tomato as bait is probably a good choice. I have successfully used apples, tomatoes and darkleafed lettuces that stand up well in the high summertime temperatures. I have heard of successes using cantaloupe and other fruits. However, I cannot share any personal success stories with cantaloupe. Unless the trap you have is specifically designed to place directly over the burrow, try not to place the cage too close to the burrow as to not alarm the animal. Best of luck to you with your trapping endeavors. Editor’s Note: Gregory Covello, ACE is an Associate Certified Entomologist and District Manager for Viking Pest Control based out of Warren, Somerset County. He is a back yard gardener and hobbyist beekeeper. He can be reached at 973-296-6523 or gcovello@vikingpest.com.
Gardener News
July, 2015 11
New Jersey Bucks National Trend, Floriculture Sales Increase in 2014 United States Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service, recently released results from the annual Floriculture Survey. Of the 15 leading states surveyed, only New Jersey and Florida earned increases in the value of sales. New Jersey moved up in ranking to sixth nationally, with total value of all plant categories sales at over $191 million. New Jersey increased area devoted to floriculture in both covered and open ground. New Jersey ranks third nationally in floriculture acreage on open ground at 4,347 acres, close to second-place Florida at 4,502 acres. New Jersey also ranks third in major categories of herbaceous perennials and cut flowers. National Highlights from Operations with Sales of $10,000 or More: Value of All Production: The 2014 wholesale value of floriculture crops is down 4 percent from the 2013 valuation. The total crop value at wholesale for the 15-state program for all growers with $10,000 or more in sales is estimated at $4.07 billion for 2014, compared with $4.25 billion for 2013. Number of Producers: The number of producers for 2014, at 4,849, is down 21 percent in the 15 states compared with the 2013 count of 6,115. Area Used for Production: In the 15-state program, total covered area for floriculture crop production was 733 million square feet, down slightly from the 2013 area of 735 million square feet. Peak Hired Workers: The average peak number of hired workers employed on operations in the 15-state program in 2014 is 22. A total of 3,761 operations hired workers during 2014. Overall, 78 percent of operations used some hired labor during 2014, an increase from 2013. Number of Producers and Operations with Hired Workers by Size - 15 Program States: 2013 and 2014 [Operations with $10,000+ sales] Highlights from Operations with Sales of $100,000 or More: Total Wholesale Value: The total wholesale value of floriculture crops sold by operations with $100,000 or more of sales in the 15-state program is $3.98 billion for 2014, down 4 percent from the 2013 total. These operations account for 97 percent of the total value of $4.07 billion in floriculture crops, but compose only 52 percent of all producers. Number of Producers: The number of producers with sales of $100,000 or more totaled 2,510 for 2014, down 5 percent from 2,632 in 2013. The number of New Jersey producers with sales over $100,000 held steady at 144. To view the full report including detailed breakout of plant sales by categories, definitions, and more, visit www.nass.usda.gov.
Christmas Tree Contest Moved The New Jersey Christmas Tree Growers Association has moved their Grand Champion Christmas tree contest to the Middlesex County Fair, held August 3-9, on Cranbury Road in East Brunswick, Middlesex County, N.J.
Northeast Maple Syrup Production Northeastern Region (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont): The Northeastern Region’s maple syrup production in 2015 totaled 2.96 million gallons, up 7 percent from 2014’s production of 2.78 million gallons. Vermont remained the top Maple State in the Northeastern Region and the Nation, producing 40.7 percent of the United States’ maple syrup. Taps in Northeastern Region totaled 10.23 million, up 4 percent from last year and accounted for 86 percent of the Nation’s maple taps. Source: USDA/NASS
The preparations have already begun for the Christmas season. But who’s thinking of Christmas now? Poinsettia growers throughout the land are. July is the time when poinsettia growers are in full swing, preparing their production of Poinsettia and getting the greenhouse space that is needed for them. Why so soon? Poinsettias require a tremendous amount of time, space and labor to produce a high-quality plant for when the time comes to start decorating the holidays. I often make jokes about how I wish I could just snap my fingers and have a crop ready for when it is needed but I am no Genie of the Lamp. Anyway, there is much to do. The stock plants are already in the greenhouse. They have been in the greenhouse since mid-April and propagation has already begun with them. The propagation stage keeps going throughout the end of summer. By summer’s end, all poinsettias will be planted into their finished containers. Poinsettias are
The Professional Grower By Tim Hionis Greenhouse Specialist
Christmas in July propagated through cuttings. Cuttings are taken from a stock plant. As a stock plant grows and is ready to take a cutting, use a sharp and sterile razor. A cutting is taken by making a cut below the first three leaves. That cutting is taken and planted, and the leaves of them are misted throughout the day to prevent the fresh cutting from dying; until a root system is established. From the stock where the cutting was taken, new breaks are formed and when the new breaks are ready for cutting, the process will be repeated. Sounds easy, right? Well, not really. Everything sounds good on paper. There are many variables in between that can affect the yield and the outcome of a poinsettia
production program. One such example that is not easily controlled is heat. If it is a hot summer with extreme high temperatures, it can affect the production program. If it is too hot for an extended period of time, the Poinsettia crop may fall into a heat delay response. Heat delay, is when the plant shuts itself down to protect itself from being overstressed. The plant stores its energy to able to handle the stress of the extreme temperatures, so growth of the plant slows down or even stops until such time the temperatures drop down to a desire level to continue growth. Other factors involved in the production process, is being able to apply the correct amount of mist on
young cuttings. Too little mist, and the cuttings won’t survive and loss of the crop is made. Too much, and you can rot out the cuttings, which can also cause crop loss, and which can bring in disease to the rest of the surrounding cuttings. Also, too much mist can cause wash-out of the plant. What does this mean? Believe it or not, extending misting when the plant doesn’t need it can affect the final color of the plant. The red may not be as vibrant or look dull, which could be a direct result of how the beginning stages of the plant were treated. To produce a great quality Poinsettia, every stage of growth is affected with the outcome of the finished product. Poinsettia
is a very sensitive plant and the demand for the perfect Poinsettia during the holiday season leaves little room for error in the production end of the spectrum. This is a good experiment for when the holidays hit. Do some research and examine the difference between a $1 Poinsettia and an $8 Poinsettia. This will help determine the amount of care between the two. Remember, both started their growing process at least six months before it was put on the shelf or table where you’re looking at it. By the way, Poinsettia production is not the only crop on a greenhouse grower’s program. Outdoor mum production is in full swing as well, with the crop underway for the end of the summer and beginning of fall. But that’s another story. Editor’s Note: Tim Hionis has been growing plants for over 20 years, and is co-owner of Hionis Greenhouses and Garden Center in Whitehouse Station, NJ. He can be reached by calling (908) 534-7710.
12 July, 2015
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18 July, 2015
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Backyard Wildlife Habitat By Jeannie Geremia Garden Club of New Jersey
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Don’t you love the images evoked by the words Backyard Wildlife Habitat? Well, maybe not if you’re dealing with our numerous, unwanted guests, namely the white-tailed deer and the ever-present squirrels. The deer were almost extinct by the end of the 1800s, due to overhunting, but with strict regulations put into law, that population has rebounded to the present day where they have become a nuisance, including denuding our forests of our native plants and allowing invasive plant species that are not suited to their taste buds to proliferate. This scenario is not good for them or us and is a perfect example of how humans have interfered with the natural balance in our eco-system and thrown our environment off kilter. Establishing wildlife habitats and creating connecting corridors of native plants can help to rebuild our declining pollinator and amphibian populations. Eliminating pesticides and herbicides should be the goal of every one of us as we work to reestablish species that are threatened and endangered and maybe, in the process, we will gain more health benefits for the human population as well. Think deer-resistant plants such as MILKWEED! The new National Garden Clubs, Inc., President Sandra H. Robinson, in her acceptance speech in May 2015, rolled out her President’s Special Project for 2015-2017, “Leap into Action,” focusing “attention on pollinators and amphibians, two bioindicators, who as individuals and populations, are used to monitor environmental conditions, and the leadership development of our members.” President Robinson has established the Backyard Wildlife Habitat Project, chaired by Becky Hassebroek, asking each state to embrace this project while retaining the NGC BeeGAP (Gardeners Adding Pollinators) Project. The Garden Club of New
Jersey’s new President, Susan O’Donnell, has asked me to add this new chairmanship while still remaining GCNJ Community Gardens Chair and GCNJ Butterflies & BeeGAP Chair. And of course, having the reputation of not being able to say “no,” I have added this new chairmanship to my duties. Actually, it’s just an extension of what I’m already doing, so I’m thrilled to have even more materials and information to disperse to garden clubs and the gardening community as well as communities throughout our great state. National Garden Clubs, Inc. “is partnering with the National Wildlife Federation to work on the Million Garden Challenge by the National Pollinator Garden Network. The goal is to help establish one million gardens to support pollinator recovery. We will plant milkweed, monarch way stations and gardens to provide food and shelter to help restore healthy populations of this important species.” We will have information in the future on how we can earn the privilege of having our gardens designated as a “Certified Wildlife Habitat” with signs announcing to our friends and neighbors that we are part of the solution. “Beyond Pesticides” is another organization providing Bee Protective Habitat Guides that are downloadable online at w w w. b e y o n d p e s t i c i d e s . org. They have partnered with the Center for Food Safety and have a beautiful, durable metal sign with the designation “BEE Protective Habitat” and still offer their “Pesticide Free Zone” signs featuring a bee or ladybug. I also just spoke to Lindsay Gafford, Stewardship Department Specialist for New Jersey Audubon, at the Hunterdon Land Trust Farmers Market, and she told me that they are working on a backyard wildlife habitat program, too. Dianne Fay Dickinson, Community Relations Coordinator for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, also does programs throughout the state on
reducing pesticide use and growing our pollinator population. Dianne is also a member of the West Trenton Garden Club and is passionate in her efforts in establishing a healthy ecosystem in the Garden State. We are fortunate to have so many dedicated volunteers and public servants in our midst. This all leads me to our future, and our new Garden Club of New Jersey President, Susan O’Donnell, in her acceptance speech has outlined her key objectives as follows. President O’Donnell’s Presidential Theme is “YOUTH LEAD THE WAY.” Foremost is connecting with our youth, developing leadership and building and strengthening our GCNJ membership. Teaming up with Master Gardeners in our community schools with their “Seeds to Salad” Project, mentoring scout groups, and working with GCNJ Youth Chair Bob Markey partnering with YMCAs and the Great Zucchini Race will get our youth out of the home and away from electronic devices to see the world all around them and to develop a love and appreciation for our environment by creating pollinator-friendly habitats across our state. Karen Nash Memorial Butterfly Garden Youth Garden Club at Memorial School in Washington Borough is hosting a July 18th Butterfly Count/Open House from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. GET INVOLVED! Editor’s Note: Jeannie Geremia is the Community Gardens Chair, the Butterflies & BeeGAP Chair, and the Backyard Wildlife Habitat Chair for the Garden Club of New Jersey, Inc., and is a National Garden Clubs, Inc., Accredited Flower Show Judge for the GCNJ. Jeannie is the GCNJ 2016 Flower Show Chair and can be reached by emailing: jeannieg42@ earthlink.net Garden Club of New Jersey website is: www.gardenclubofnewjersey.com and phone number is: 732-249-0947.
Gardener News
July, 2015 19
A Special Gardening Dedication Members of the Garden Club of New Jersey, Inc. (GCNJ) recently gathered in the Rutgers Gardens, on the G.H. Cook Campus of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, to dedicate a Children Statue in the Rutgers Native and Regional Plant Garden. The statue is made of bronze and has three children playing on a log. “Dedicated to our children of today and tomorrow” is on a plaque that accompanies the statue. Holly House in the Rutgers Gardens is the GCNJ Headquarters. For many years, GCNJ has had a mutually advantageous relationship with Rutgers Gardens, and several years ago, as part of that ongoing relationship and support of the gardens, GCNJ made a commitment to place an appropriate statue in the Children’s Garden. Through donations of about $5,000, their commitment came to fruition this past spring. GCNJ, founded in 1925, is a federation of individual local garden clubs throughout the state with over 5,000 members, ages 6 to adult. GCNJ is the state affiliate and a charter member of the National Garden Clubs, Inc., (NGC), a non-profit educational organization. The membership of NGC is composed of nearly 200,000 members, 6,000 member Tom Castronovo/Photo garden clubs, 70 national affiliates and 300 Garden Club of New Jersey members sing God Bless America during the Children’s international affiliates around the globe. NGC is the largest volunteer organization of Statue ceremony. its type in the world.
Tom Castronovo/Photo Tom Castronovo/Photo
Susan O’Donnell, President-Elect of the Garden Club of New Jersey, unveils the Children’s Statue.
Onnolee Allieri, Chair of the Children’s Statue Committee for the Garden Club of New Jersey, proudly stands with the newly dedicated Children’s Statue.
20 July, 2015
Gardener News
Preparing for snow in June The New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association (NJLCA) and the Accredited Snow Contractors Association (ASCA) teamed up at the Wyndham Garden Hotel in Trenton, Mercer County, N.J., on June 11 to provide a half-day of networking with peers and industry leaders, insurance initiatives, legislation action and education on running a snow and ice management business to their members. The day started off with State Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman, at the podium, educating the group on how the legislative process works in the state. He also let them know that each and every person in the room could contact him directly if they had any legislative issue they wanted to discuss. The ASCA’s Snow Academy followed, which was a series of lectures specifically created for snow and ice managers. Between presentations and in the afternoon, the group met with several other state legislators to discuss the issues snow contractors continue to face with rising insurance costs brought on by frivolous lawsuits. The day ended with executive board members from both associations sitting down with staff members from Senator Stephen Sweeney’s office in the State House. One of the most popular trends in the fresh produce industry over the past few years has been the “locally grown” movement. Many growers, retailers and restaurants have started using the terms “local” or “locally grown” in their marketing strategies. And who could blame them? The term has a very positive connotation when it is used to describe fresh fruits and vegetables. Growers and retailers will try to emphasize how fresh their products are by touting their local origins. Restaurants will go to the trouble of citing their sources on their menus. Over the past few years, the term local has gained more and more favor within the produce industry. And this over-saturation has, in my opinion, led to a gross overuse of the term. But what does the term “local” mean? If I asked 20 different people to define the word local for me, or more specifically, what the term “local produce” meant to them, I bet that I would get 20 different answers. If you were to read a newspaper and the headline read, “Local Man Hit by Car,” what would you think? If
Tom Castronovo/Photo
The Town Farmer By Peter Melick Agricultural Producer
Where is Local? you look at the word “local” in terms of government, you have Local, County, State and Federal. How far away from your home are your local schools located? But when it comes to the marketing of fruits and vegetables, how large of an area should “local” define? Should it be a relatively small area, or should it be an area as large as the state or perhaps even bigger? Does “local” mean “around the corner” or does it mean 50 or 100 miles away? As restaurants and stores try to outdo themselves in offering the freshest and most “local” produce, what does that term really mean? It is no secret in the industry that as the popularity of “local” food has increased, many retailers and restaurants have expanded their own definition of what “local” means to better
suit their own needs. After all, it is much easier to buy produce from out of the area and call it locally grown than it is to actually grow it! And because there is no mandatory standard within the industry to follow, who is going to say whether something is local or it is not? Recently, the New Jersey State Board of Agriculture felt the need to address this issue. After observing the misuse of this terminology throughout the state, they decided that they should be proactive with this issue and do something about it. I believe that their general consensus is that something needs to be done to rein in this definition. But, they are contemplating the possibility of redefining the phrase “locally grown” to mean any product grown in New Jersey. If a product is grown outside New
Jersey, it still can be called “local,” but must also state where it comes from. That new definition does not really sound much like “local” to me. In fact, it sounds more like what “local” is not. Although I realize that the use of the term local has gotten out of hand, I do not believe that the New Jersey State Board of Agriculture has any right to unilaterally redefine a word in the English language. And while I commend their efforts in this regard, I believe that their energies would be better spent in protecting and strengthening the Jersey Fresh program, which by the way, is one of the most successful produce marketing campaigns in the country. But what should be done? Should the term “local” be allowed to be bastardized in
the same way that “all-natural” and “organic” have been? In my opinion, the answer is yes. Soon, the term will be so overused that it will not have any real meaning anymore. If that happens, so be it. Consumers should ask where their produce comes from, and stores and restaurants should give them some answers. It’s that simple. Then the customers can decide where “local” really is. *This column originally appeared in the September, 2013 addition of Gardener News. Because this topic has garnered a lot of attention lately, I decided to submit it again. Editor’s Note: Peter Melick is co-owner of Melick’s Town Farm in Oldwick and a 10th-generation New Jersey farmer. Peter is a current member of the Tewksbury Township Committee, and a former Mayor of Tewksbury Township. He also served as a director for the New Jersey Farm Bureau and is a past president of the New Jersey State Board of Agriculture. Peter has also been featured on NJN, News 12 New Jersey and on the Fox Business Network.
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July, 2015 21
I’m sure you do! While I’m writing this article in early-June, we are already experiencing drought conditions here in New Jersey and the eastern part of the country. California is also going through a long-term drought as well. Meanwhile, Texas is suffering greatly from recent flooding. Well, we all wish we had a crystal ball that would have alerted us to these current conditions we are experiencing. So what’s the answer? The number-one thing to always remember is a healthy growing lawn is your best defense against drought conditions. This is achieved by a sound lawn program, including proper feeding, mowing and watering. Here are my thoughts on achieving that great lawn. Thatch, which is dead organic matter, inhibits your lawn’s growth. Thatch is a great robber of water and nutrients and must be removed. Vigorously rake out thatch or consider renting a de-thatching machine to help. Reduce or eliminate nitrogen applications which promote leaf growth. Leaf growth
Many times, an established lawn will bounce back from this dormant, “dead-looking” stage once temperatures cool off and rain returns. Seeding your lawn with drought-tolerant grasses is important, too. Tall fescues tend to hold up very well, since they have the ability to grow deep root systems. Seeding in early-fall allows your lawn to become well established and resilient to combat the following summer’s drought and heat conditions. Be sure to address soil compaction issues too, so the grass roots have a better chance of taking hold and becoming stronger than the drought. Remember to include a “drought” lawn-care plan each year. You never know when a drought may come and it may be too late to save your lawn. By following these steps, you will hopefully have a beautiful lawn to enjoy all summer long.
Turf ‘s Up By Todd Pretz Professional Turf Consultant
Got Drought…? when the lawn is under stress increases the stress level further. Also, eliminate weed killer applications during hot, dry weather; this could kill a drought-stressed lawn. Watering techniques are critical, too. When you start using your irrigation in latespring, be sure to water deeply and infrequently, adding about one inch per week between irrigation and rainfall. This encourages roots to go deeper into the soil to find more water resources. If you are able to water at times of drought stress, water early in the morning while temperatures are cooler. Usually there is less wind during the early morning hours as well. Wind, too, is a cause of water evaporation. Here’s a tip: you will know your lawn needs water when you walk across it and your
foot prints are still visible. Mowing practices are important, too. Mow in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler. Turfgrass will lose moisture with each mowing. Be sure to set your mower cutting height as high as you can, three to four inches if possible. Do not cut off more than one-third of the total blade height at any one time. Studies show that the higher the mowing height, the deeper the roots tend to grow, combating drought stress. Scalping the lawn will put the lawn in jeopardy of dying. Keep your mower blade sharp. Dull mower blades tear and shred the grass leaf blades rather than cutting them clean. Shredding leaf blades increases water loss and make the lawn susceptible to disease. If you have a
mulching mower, the “grass cycling” returns moisture and fertilizer nutrients back into the soil, since most of the grass blades are comprised of moisture to begin with. Of course, during times of drought, your lawn will not grow as quickly, so the need to mow will be reduced. Traffic is a killer when your lawn is under drought stress! Reduce traffic on the lawns at all times when possible, including mowing during the middle of the day. Injury to grass plants can cause dehydration and death of the grass plant. If watering restrictions are imposed, reduce all traffic on the lawn. Restrict watering to the most important areas if possible. Most lawn grasses will go dormant and turn brown during drought and heat stress.
Editor’s Note: Todd Pretz is Vice President of Jonathan Green, a leading supplier of lawn and garden products in the northeast. For more information, please visit: www.jonathangreen.com
Darmera – Creating Garden Drama Gardeners always look to those plants with great and grand flowers. But, rather sadly, they often forget the beauty and importance of dramatic foliage in a garden’s design. The foliage of most perennials is rather fine and delicate in texture, visually giving the Garden a light and airy feeling. The addition of bold foliage provides the “visual weight” needed to anchor the Garden and to add that touch of drama. Such perennial plants have been hard to find, until I discovered and began my love affair with Indian Rhubarb, Darmera peltata. Indian Rhubarb is native to Oregon, south into Northern California, and is a member of the Saxifragaceae or Saxifrage Family. In fact, its family roots were reflected in its original botanical name of Saxifraga peltata, as authored by the English Botanist George Bentham (1800-1884).
Recognizing that Saxifraga was an improper genus, the German botanist Heinrich Gustov Engler (1844-1930) reclassified the plant in 1891 as Peltiphyllum peltatum, only for it to be reclassified again in 1899 as Darmera peltata by another German botanist, Andreas Voss (1857-1924). The genus name commemorates the German botanist and horticulturist Karl Darmer (1843-1918). This repeated change in names presents a challenge that has fraught many a gardener – an invalid name remains valid in the trade. During the late-1980s, I learned this plant as Peltiphyllum, nearly 90 years since this name was no longer valid! The repeated reference to “pelt” is from the Greek Pelte, meaning “shield,” and describes the “peltate” leaf arrangement. The leaf stem is attached to the large rounded leaves in roughly the center of the leaf – nearly the same location as where a hand would grip a shield – and thus, the resemblance of the leaf to a shield.
Hardy in zones 5-7, Darmera grows naturally in moist and lightly shaded locations along streams and bogs. In its cooler native environment, plants can reach upwards of five feet tall, with a leaf diameter of 18 inches. The plants slowly spread by one0 to two-inch-thick surface rhizomes that ultimately create a sizable plant of six feet across or better. They are great for stabilizing stream banks! In New Jersey, the plants grow to a far more modest height and width of two to three feet, with leaves to 10 inches in diameter. In April, the leafless rhizomes give rise to a ballshaped cyme of pink flowers, which slowly unfurls into a more star-shaped presentation. The flowers slowly change from pink to off-white with age. The floral arrangement is vaguely reminiscent of Primula japonica, the Japanese Primrose. As the flowers fade, the foliage begins to make its appearance. Aside from the foliage being peltate and bold, it also forms a slight cup, with the base of the cup
coinciding with the point of attachment of the stem. The cup formation allows it to hold water following rainstorms or heavy dews, cooling and moistening the leaf during the midday heat. One of the other common names is Umbrella Plant, alluding to the cupshaped leaf and its similarity to an inside-out umbrella; most certainly a great topic of conversation during your next social event. Come the cooler temperatures of autumn, the foliage develops deep russet and reddish fall colors. Aside from the plant having dramatic foliage and flowers, the common name of Indian Rhubarb describes one of its other attributes – the stems are edible! I have never sampled the stems, but supposedly, once the tougher outer layer of the stem is peeled away, the more tender, inner stem can be eaten raw or cooked. In the garden, it is best to mimic Indian Rhubarb’s native environment by locating it in dappled shade. Even in its native state of California, the foliage becomes scorched
by August if sited in full sun. For a more low-maintenance garden, plant Darmera in mass, as the large leaves effectively shade the ground and keep the weeds at bay. When paired with tall ferns, Astilbe or other fine-leaved plants, the textural combination is spectacular. With three seasons of interest, Darmera is tremendous for creating that visual weight and “Garden Drama” that many a modern garden seems to lack. Editor’s Note: Bruce Crawford is a lover of plants since birth; is the managing director of the Rutgers Gardens, a 180-acre outdoor teaching classroom, horticultural research facility and arboretum; an adjunct professor in Landscape Architecture at the Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences; regularly participates in the Rutgers – Continuing Education Program; and the immediate pastpresident of the Garden State Gardens Consortium. He can be reached at (732) 932-8451. For more information, please visit www.rutgersgardens.rutgers.edu
22 July, 2015
Gardener News
Kings Produce Manager Receives National Award
Tom Castronovo/Photo
Tom Dubrowski, left, a produce manager for the Kings Food Markets Cresskill Borough store location, proudly shows his award-winning plaque to Paul Hamilton, the Produce Field Supervisor for Kings Food Markets. Dubrowski was the only produce manager honored in New Jersey this year by United Fresh. Marking its 11th year of recognizing exceptional retail produce managers, United Fresh, an association that brings together companies across every segment of the fresh produce supply chain, including growers, shippers, fresh cut processors, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, foodservice operators, industry suppliers and allied associations, announced the honorees of its 2015 Retail Produce Manager Awards Program during the Retail-Foodservice Celebration Dinner, Wednesday, June 10, at the Sheraton Chicago. The group of 25 produce manager winners represents 23 different supermarket banners, commissaries and independent retail stores in 19 states. Winners were selected from hundreds of nominations submitted by retailers and produce suppliers across the industry. Nominations were evaluated on a number of criteria, including efforts to increase produce consumption through excellence in merchandising, special displays and promotions, community service and commitment to customer satisfaction. The program pays special recognition to produce mangers working every day to increase sales and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. In 1936, the founders of Kings began with the humble purpose of finding the freshest produce around. They quickly found the best local farmers and established relationships that would endure and expand over the years. Today, Kings has 25 stores that are locally focused on the communities they serve.
The Basil Battle: New Cultivars on the Horizon to Beat Downy Mildew (Continued from page 1)
symptoms of downy mildew, they are no longer marketable as a fresh product. Without adequate control options and genetic resistance, basil downy mildew has the potential to destroy basil production in the eastern U.S. and beyond. Currently, sweet basil growers rely on multiple applications of a few commercially available fungicides currently registered to produce a marketable crop, while treatment options for organic growers are even more limited. As with many agricultural disease threats, land-grant university researchers rely on a network of colleagues from surrounding states and the region to provide a coordinated response to a major disease outbreak. Wide-scale monitoring of the disease helps plant pathologists determine the timing and location of basil downy mildew threats. In the case of basil downy mildew, this also meant quickly determining what fungicides and cultural practices would best keep the disease at bay and prevent crop loss. Most importantly, it also meant searching for a downy mildewresistant sweet basil.
In 2011 a team of researchers from the University of Massachusetts, Cornell University, University of Florida and Rutgers University assembled to develop a strategy to manage basil downy mildew in the humid conditions of the Eastern Seaboard, where the disease is most apt to thrive. Partner universities are focusing on chemical and cultural controls for the disease, as well as the molecular diagnostic markers. Rutgers researchers have the crucial role of developing new sweet basil varieties that are resistant to downy mildew. Rutgers currently has the largest basil breeding program in the U.S. Outside of Rutgers, other basil-breeding efforts are being conducted in Israel and Europe – locations with different disease pressure conditions than the eastern U.S. Rutgers Professor of NewUse Agriculture Jim Simon has been collecting basils from around the world since 1986, and in the 15 years he’s been at Rutgers, has expanded it into an extensive collection. Simon began breeding basil in 1990, first attempting to understand
the genetics of aroma formation and the development of lines rich in specific aroma compounds. His venture into breeding for disease resistance began with Fusarium wilt resistance, which was a major problem for commercial basil growers in the 1990s, and he and others developed large-leaf Italian types of open-pollinated Fusarium wilt resistant sweet basil. “About five years ago, we turned our attention to downy mildew as this new disease came into New Jersey for the first time and really began to devastate our commercial basil crop where growers were negatively impacted,” said Simon. “In concert with our state vegetable pathologist, Andy Wyenandt, and with encouragement of some of our leading basil farmers like Dennis Dalponte and other Rutgers vegetable specialists, we first sought to address this problem by identifying basils from any species that exhibited tolerance or resistance.” Aided by graduate student Robert Pyne, whose dissertation focused on developing genetic resistance in basil, the team found that
commonly grown sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) was far more susceptible than some of the other exotic, spice and ornamental basils. In early field studies, all sweet basil varieties evaluated were found to be very susceptible to downy mildew. Other basil species and varieties with fewer symptoms included the red types (including “Red Leaf” and “Red Rubin”) Thai basil (“Queenette”) lemon basil (“Lemon,” “Lemon Mrs. Burns,” “Sweet Dani Lemon Basil”) lime basil (“Lime”) and spice types (“Spice,” “Blue Spice,” “Blue Spice F1,” “Cinnamon”) which suggested they may possess the genes for resistance to basil downy mildew, and more importantly, could be used in a breeding program. Once resistance was identified in the other basil types, Simon and Pyne had to make hundreds of crosses to get the desired traits of sweet basil along with downy mildew resistance. This finetuning is a craft in itself. While developing a resistant basil is an accomplishment, Pyne points out “it has no commercial value unless it looks and tastes
like a true sweet basil.” The team does their own informal quality assessments and they also provide samples to New Jersey and Florida basil growers to get important feedback. The breeding work is tedious, and promising varieties have to undergo further testing to see if they’ll hold up under extremely high disease pressure. In a university greenhouse screening room which was built to rapidly expose thousands of basils to this disease, the breeding lines are kept wet all day long in disease chambers. By making conditions ideal for basil downy mildew development, Pyne says, “basically, we make that room into Florida.” A lot is riding on the success of the $1.8 million dollar USDA-Specialty Crop Research Initiative funded grant awarded to Simon and others in 2011. Sweet basil is the most commercially important annual culinary herb crop grown in the U.S. and one of the most popular garden herbs. Commercially, basil is grown for culinary use for both fresh and dry consumption and also to a limited extent is a commercial (Cont. on page 25)
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July, 2015 23
Wow! This is amazing. Tomatoes, tomatoes, tomatoes. Tomatoes are the absolute best, aside from corn, from the glorious Garden State. Take a second or two to think about life without tomatoes. No ketchup, no salsa, no B.L.T., NO MARINARA (or gravy if you prefer) just to name a few. Sounds terrible doesn’t it? This is our state vegetable, although technically a fruit. No matter, it deserves praise and we should give credit where credit is due. Ever since I was a kid, I have heard about the Jersey tomato. Our soil conditions and climate make for a great tomato. If you like tomatoes like I do, than now (July through August) is prime tomato time. Eat them any way you can. In salads, on sandwiches, in salsa, with fresh mozzarella, on a burger, on a pizza, whatever! Just eat them now. Don’t even think about buying some green picked, chemically ripened tomato that was shipped here from across the country or even another country. Go to your local farmers market or
next month, which will be on Jersey corn. Please ENJOY your summer and eat Jersey Fresh!!! Fire and Ice salad (serves 4) 3 large JERSEY tomatoes, cut into larger bite sized chunks 1 large red onion, sliced as thin as possible salt and fresh black pepper to taste 1/2 cup red wine vinegar 1/4 cup good quality extra virgin olive oil fresh basil or parsley, roughly chopped methodmix all ingredients together and let marinate for at least half an hour before serving
So, there I was walking into a home in Portland to attend a dinner party with a group that I do not know. I have my customary great bottle of cabernet to give the hosts, and according to my date it would be appreciated. Nothing like giving the gift of alcohol to someone who has just begun their 12-step program in AA. Talk about not being PC. Anyway, we enter the party and start the light chitchat process: How do you know so and so? What do you do? Etc. We moved to a veranda overlooking the marina and I greeted a younger, interestingly dressed woman in a black-and-yellow striped shirt, black skirt, bright yellow stockings, antennae, interesting make-up and asked her how her day went. Well she looked me right in the eyes and told me that she had participated in the “die-in” at Monument Square today as part of the March Against Monsanto, which produces GMO seeds and herbicides that are linked to their growth. Their group relates the decline in bees and butterflies to this
From the Deep By Craig Korb Executive Chef
You say tomato….. ask/demand them from your local grocery store. The tomato was thought to be brought here in the 18th Century from England. Although we are about eighth, production wise by state (California and Florida are one and two, respectively) ours are still the best. High in antioxidants, vitamin A and C, they are also great sources of potassium and B complex vitamins such as thiamin, niacin, riboflavin and minerals such as iron, calcium, and manganese. If you grow them, leave them on the vine as long as possible. If any fall off before they appear ripe, place them in a paper bag with the stem up and store them in a cool, dark place. Never place tomatoes on a sunny windowsill to ripen;
they may rot before they are ripe. Pick them when they are firm and very red in color, regardless of size. And they like a nice warm area in full sun, and need at least eight hours of sunlight a day. I grew up eating sliced tomatoes as a side dish during dinner. Perhaps just a touch of salt and that was all you needed when you had a perfectly ripe tomato. Lately I have become a huge fan of the Jersey tomato sandwich. One or two thick slices of perfectly ripened Jersey tomato, a touch of mayo and a pinch of salt and pepper on toasted bread. Heaven, I tell you. During the summer, we sell the Caprese-style salad at the restaurant, which is sliced fresh Jersey
tomato, sliced Jersey-made mozzarella cheese, a few basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and good quality extra-virgin olive oil. It sells like mad, as it should. It is basic, delicious and a perfect summer dish. So what I am basically telling you is that for at least the next two months, there is NO reason to buy anything other than the Jersey tomato for yourself and/or family. It is here, it is plentiful and it is delicious. Again, if your store doesn’t carry Jersey tomatoes, then go up to the courtesy counter and DEMAND that they do! It is your right as a Jerseyan to have access to the best tomato there is, THE NEW JERSEY TOMATO. Thank you for listening to my banter and I look forward to
The Miscellaneous Gardener By Richard W. Perkins Freelance Writer
Dinner Party Chat Turns Serious herbicide use. She obviously had been one of the bees. Now you need to understand that educated people in Maine love organic food, and if they cannot afford to buy it, they will grow it themselves. I then asked her if GMO foods were bad and were they labelled to warn us innocent consumers like “No MSG” labels. Wow, she grabbed ahold of me, gently but she had both hands clasped to my sport coat, and waddled backwards to a couch, plopped me on it, sat right next to me and started telling me about their group and how there is a nationwide campaign to get manufacturers who sell GMO ingredients to put a label on their containers that simply says “Contains GMO Ingredients.” This may not seem anywhere near
as gloomy and doomy as “smoking causes lung cancer, heart disease, emphysema, and may complicate pregnancy,” but according to my new friend there are battles being waged at both state and federal levels over mandatory GMO labeling, including a bill winding its way through Congress that would pre-empt all states’ rights on the issue and render Maine’s GMO labeling law null and void. Wow, again! I need to refresh my wine, I told her. She got up brought the bottle back, filled my glass to the acceptable halfway mark and proceeded with her antennae bouncing around quite dramatically. My date, standing behind her, using hand signals asked me if I was okay and I nodded yes. I found out that GMOs (genetically
modified organisms) are altered to produce disease resistance, faster growth and better color or texture. I also found out that only 1 percent of Maine’s total acreage is planted with GMO-altered feed corn, canola, soybeans, sweet corn and alfalfa. But she told me that 70 percent of all products sold in American supermarkets contain GMO ingredients. I told her that I try hard to only buy organic and she replied that organic is the best way to not eat GMOs. Studies she has access to point out that, after 20 years in which GMOs have been around, no overt consequences have been reported or substantiated. But, according to the American Medical Association, two decades is too short a time period to study any true impact on humans.
Editor’s Note: Craig Korb is executive chef at The Crab’s Claw Inn, Lavallette, New Jersey. He has an Associates degree in Culinary Arts and a Bachelors degree in Food Service Management from Johnson and Wales University. For more information visit www.TheCrabsClaw.com or phone (732) 793-4447. The problem her group has is that the GMO growers use a herbicide that includes glyphosate, which the World Health Organization recently classified as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” In my opinion, what herbicide isn’t? There is proof that glyphosate is effectively killing the milkweed that monarch butterflies depend upon. Then we discussed neonicotinoids (Bug B Gone, etc.) that according to her have wiped out approximately 40 percent of honeybee colonies in America, more than 60 percent in Maine. Maine’s wild blueberry fields depend upon the honeybee for survival. These examples are reason enough for me to eat only organic, which uses no herbicides or pesticides whatsoever, and I also plan to participate in their next demonstration. Boom, that was one heck of a party! Thanks for reading and see ya next month. Editors Note: Check out Richard’s photography at; rwperkinsphotography.com
24 July, 2015
Gardener News
Produce Organization Celebrates Jersey Fresh The Eastern Produce Council (EPC) recently held its sixth Annual Jersey Fresh Cookout at Demarest Farms in Hillsdale, Bergen County, N.J. The event was sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Agriculture (NJDA). This marked the 28th consecutive year that the NJDA has sponsored an EPC meeting. This was the last EPC meeting before its traditional summer break; the council’s meetings will resume this fall. With a current membership of over 450, today’s EPC is a thriving produce organization that opens doors and opportunities to grow leadership skills and gain valuable contacts in the produce industry. Members include retailers, wholesale distributors, growers, vendors/brokers, logistics and transportation professionals, as well as commodity groups, food service and other associations. The EPC is also dedicated to making the world a better place and is committed to improving the social welfare of their local and extended communities. Founded in 1966 in New York City, the Eastern Produce Council was originally known as the Produce Sales Club. The founding members recognized the need to form a group in order to collaborate and share common practices amongst the market trade of fresh produce. As the need grew and the organization developed, there Tom Castronovo/Photo was a commitment to engage more people and establish membership. With a larger group and membership, the New Jersey’s 5th Secretary of Agriculture Art Brown, right, who served Produce Sales Club was able to provide quality services and from 1982-2002, and Jim Allen, President of the New York Apple programs that benefited and enhanced the competitiveness Association, network at the Eastern Produce Council’s meeting. Brown of its members. Members at that time consisted of retailers was the first recipient of the council’s Lifetime Achievement Award. and wholesalers of fresh fruit and produce. Three years after formation, the organization was growing, and the Produce Sales Club changed its name to the Eastern Produce Council. The Council was attracting and engaging more members and bringing together individuals dedicated to an evolving industry and marketplace. Advancements were being made in information exchange, market services and philanthropic contributions. This was the start of achieving common goals of a membership that served the largest geographic region of produce consumption. After 40 years, the EPC continues to thrive and achieve its goals of bringing value to its members. The Jersey Fresh program launched in 1984 to help farmers inform consumers about the availability and variety of fruits and vegetables grown in New Jersey. Through the many years of the program, consumer awareness has increased, and it has become the benchmark for other states to initiate their own state-grown agricultural marketing programs. The New Jersey Department of Agriculture continually works to bring Jersey Fresh to all who want it, by working with restaurants, schools, colleges, big box stores, local communities, hotels, hospitals and more.
Tom Castronovo/Photo
New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas H. Fisher, center, promotes Jersey Fresh produce and thanks all of the produce buyers in the audience for supporting the Jersey Fresh program at the Eastern Produce Council’s meeting. Fisher also acknowledged all of the New Jersey Department of Agriculture staff present at the EPC meeting.
Gardener News
July, 2015 25
Longtime Executive Director of the Eastern Produce Council, Passed John J. McAleavey, 80, of Short Hills, N.J., passed away peacefully on Friday, June 5, 2015, at home, surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in Newark, N.J., John graduated from Seton Hall Preparatory School. He served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Leyte before earning his degree from Rutgers University. John’s career in the produce industry encompassed sales, marketing, merchandising, and consulting for the California Pistachio Commission, Chilean Fresh Fruit Association, and the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets. Most recently, John represented the New York Apple Association, as well as the T. Marzetti Co. He passionately served as the executive director of the Eastern Produce Council for the past 25 years, and was inducted into its Hall of Fame in 2008. At the council’s most recent dinner dance, held April 11, the council surprised John with a special award to commemorate his 25 years of service to the Eastern Produce Council. He also served on the board of trustees of the New Jersey Agricultural Society, the oldest agricultural organization of its type in the United States. John was an avid fan of all sports. He was a successful Little League coach for many years, never missed a game his daughter or son played, and was a fixture at Millburn High School athletic events, especially the basketball games coached by his son, John. He delighted in cheering on his grandchildren LQ WKHLU DWKOHWLF HQGHDYRUV DQG ZDV OR\DO WR KLV IDYRULWH WHDPV ʊ the New York Giants; his children’s alma maters, Boston College and Providence College; and his beloved Boston Red Sox. John is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Joann; children, Susan Sarlund and her husband, Chas; son, John McAleavey; grandchildren, Meghan and Charlie Sarlund; and his brother, Tom. Contributions may be made to The John McAleavey Jr. Fund, P.O. Box 514, Short Hills, N.J. 07078, to help continue its 20-year tradition of providing services for individuals and families affected by spinal cord injuries.
The Basil Battle: New Cultivars on the Horizon to Beat Downy Mildew (Continued from page 22) source of essential oil and oleoresin that are used in perfumes, food flavors, and aromatherapy products. Fortunately, several downy mildew resistant sweet basils have emerged from all this work that are currently undergoing their last rounds of rigorous testing. “It has taken quite an effort and it is still underway, “ Simon said. “We predict that the first resistant strain will be released next year, and a series of resistant sweet basils of different phenotypes (leaf shape and size) the year after. Once we release the line, it will be licensed to the commercial industry and then it likely would take another one to two years before ample seed stock is produced and made available.” Simon added that “plant breeding is an art, science and craft – and with basil, we focus not just on disease resistance, but also breeding for high yield and field performance, aroma, taste and the plant’s
visual appearance.” The team is excited about the basil varieties they have developed and invite growers, gardeners and others to visit the research plots and see the new strains. The varieties will be available for tasting on August 26 at the Great Tomato Tasting at Rutgers Snyder Research Farm in Pittstown, N.J. Editor’s Note: Tom Castronovo is executive editor and publisher of Gardener News. Tom’s lifelong interest in gardening and passion for agriculture, environmental stewardship, gardening and landscaping, led to the founding of the Gardener News, which germinated in April 2003 and continues to bloom today. He is also dedicated to providing inspiration, and education to the agricultural, gardening and landscaping communities through this newspaper and GardenerNews.com.
Unique Plants By Bob LaHoff Nursery Specialist
Walking in the Trees Just a short drive down the New Jersey Turnpike and across the Pennsylvania Turnpike had my family arriving at the Morris Arboretum in late-May. The Morris Arboretum, located in Philadelphia, is an interdisciplinary center for arts and sciences, education and research. A not-for-profit, tax-exempt organization of the University of Pennsylvania, it is one of the few botanical gardens in our country to be accredited as a living museum by the American Association of Museums. The Morris Arboretum is renowned for, among other things, its collection of over 13,000 rare plants exhibited to complement its various sculptures, fountains and historic structures. Purchased in 1887, the Morris Arboretum is the legacy of siblings John and Lydia Morris. “Their vast estate known as ‘Compton’ and its surrounding property were bequeathed by the Morrises to the University of Pennsylvania in 1932 and incorporated as the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania as a public botanical garden and center for education in 1933.” (Morris Arboretum) There is little effort to get my attention with anything plant-related and our 7-year old daughter, Olivia, seems well on her way to an appreciation of plants as well. However, when I recently learned of a sort of “catwalk in the trees,” I immediately had her attention. Morris Arboretum’s Tree Adventure, “Out on a Limb,” is a bold, fresh, quantum experience allowing you to walk high within the trees. Designed by Metcalfe Architecture and Design, Out on a Limb’s structure does not touch the trees, cognizant that that could cause harm. “Their structure is comprised of recyclable metal and wood, is a ‘lightweight structure’ of steel and six-inch diameter ‘micro pile’ foundations. A semi-permanent structure that can be rebuilt without totally starting over should something ever happen to one of the trees.” (Metcalfe Architecture & Design). Intended to be a “tiptoe through the trees,” this 450-foot walkway exhibit crosses you through a museum collection of the arboretum’s trees. Their Chestnut Oak, Quercus Montana, a 250-year-old tree, is the centerpiece of the exhibit and is surrounded by structure and decking. Absolutely nothing touches this tree except our hands as we gently go by this horticultural “Giant” in the woods. Suspended some 50 feet in the air, our family took notice of the immense branching that was now just several feet above our heads. My explanation to our daughter of the trees’ rather corky-like texture with deep ridges, I explained that could only happen after many years. A 7-year old’s quick response was, “Oh, just like Nana’s skin, it’s crinkly too!” Anyone who has children can appreciate the innocence and directness they possess. Impressive signage throughout the arboretum and particularly in the “Tree Adventure” was descriptive, educational, horticulturally accurate and above all, for this exhibit, playful and engaging, assuring future gardeners alike. Along our journey, we walked through such specimens as an American Beech, Fagus grandifolia, an American Yellow-wood, Cladrastis kentukea, and a Red Maple, Acer rubrum all extremely impressive to me. However what ‘stole the show’ for our daughter were the Tuliptree, Liriodendron tulipifera, and a Black Tupelo, Nyssa sylvatica, not so much for their botanical achievement, but rather because they were both surrounded by squirrel scramble netting. A huge hammock-like net where you can crawl, walk or just sit and look down at the forest floor beneath you – a scary, exciting and completely safe experience that had me racing my daughter toward it. Aside from the playfulness, the squirrel scramble afforded us, Olivia did comment on the Tulip tree’s flower. Yellow-green cup shaped flowers giving this tree its common name. An attribute she surely would have missed from ground level. However, some 50 feet in the air, she nearly walked into them. Finally, the other highlight of this Tree Adventure was the giant Bird’s-Nest, complete with giant robin’s eggs that she could sit on and try and hatch. Patterned after a Baltimore oriole nest, this structure was thoughtfully woven complete with peepholes for the kids. You did, however, need to cross a suspension bridge to get to it. A feat no child and most parents could resist. Metcalfe Architecture & Design did an outstanding job of connecting us to the natural world. The Boardwalk planks that connect this entire experience consist of sustainably harvested black locust wood decking, locally cut (within 500 miles per LEED requirements). Naturally bug and rot resistant, it has gained new popularity because it is locally available and does not need chemical treatment like other pressure treated lumber. Their deliberate zigzag pattern helps you to focus, linger, learn and just imbibe your natural surroundings. Editor’s Note: Bob LaHoff is co-owner of Hall’s Garden Center and Florist in Union County, a member of the Union County Board of Agriculture, the New Jersey Nursery and Landscape Association, Reeves-Reed Arboretum Buildings and Grounds Committee, a lifetime member of the Conifer Society and past member of the retail council for Monrovia Growers. He can be reached at (908) 665-0331.
26 July, 2015
Gardener News RUTGERS COOPERATIVE EXTENSION PHONE DIRECTORY
RUDOLF W. van der GOOT ROSE GARDEN EARNS INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION (BRIDGEWATER, NJ) – The Somerset County Park Commission has proudly announced that the Rudolf W. van der Goot Rose Garden at Colonial Park in Somerset, New Jersey is the recipient of the 2015 World Federation of Rose Societies’ (WFRS) Garden of Excellence Award. Submitted to the WFRS headquarters in Australia with other submissions from throughout the world, the nomination was initiated by a member of the Jersey Shore Rose Society in July of 2014. Members of the American Rose Society and Master Rosarians toured, photographed, and critiqued the garden, judging its qualifying characteristics. According to the WFRS web site, “There are many wonderful rose gardens around the world, but some are truly exceptional from a historical, educational and/or visual point of view.” Beginning in 1995, the WFRS organization has recognized the best of the outstanding rose gardens throughout the world with its Garden of Excellence Award. Colonial Park Gardens Horticulture Supervisor Mark Inzano said “Our staff Rosarian Shauna Moore and I were extremely excited to be nominated for this award. We are ecstatic that the Rudolf W. van der Goot Rose Garden has won! It is a great achievement, not only for the garden, but also gives much deserved recognition to the hard work and dedication of the entire Horticulture Department staff.” The highly competitive and prestigious award has been earned by internationally renowned gardens including La Roseraie de Bagatelle in France, the Garden of Roses in England, and Washington Park in Portland, Oregon along with gardens in Argentina, China, Italy, Pakistan, South Africa, and other countries throughout the world. Jolene Adams, President of the American Rose Society, was in Lyon, France to accept the award on behalf of the Somerset County Park Commission. The Rudolf W. van der Goot Rose Garden is one acre in size and contains more than 3,000 roses of 325 varieties. The garden was named in honor of Rudolf W. van der Goot, the first horticulturist with the Somerset County Park Commission, as a tribute to his efforts in designing and developing the garden. The Rose Garden is located on Mettlers Road (Parking Lot A and F) in the East Millstone section of Franklin Township’s Colonial Park. From late spring through fall, the roses present a kaleidoscope of color, form, and fragrance. Visitors can view popular modern hybrids, species, and various classes of Old Garden Roses. All roses are clearly labeled for easy identification and only roses that thrive in central NJ are kept in the rose collections.
Atlantic County Phone: 609-625-0056 Bergen County Phone: 201-336-6780 Burlington County Phone: 609-265-5050 Camden County Phone: 856 216 7130 Cape May County Phone: 609-465-5115 Cumberland County Phone: 856-451-2800 Essex County Phone: 973-228-2210 Gloucester County Phone: 856-307-6450 Hudson County Phone: 201-915-1399 Hunterdon County Phone: 908-788-1339 Mercer County Phone: 609-989-6830
Middlesex County Phone: 732-398-5260 Monmouth County Phone: 732-431-7260 Morris County Phone: 973-285-8300 Ocean County Phone:732-349-1246 Passaic County Phone: 973-305-5740 Salem County Phone: 856-769-0090 Somerset County Phone: 908-526-6293 Sussex County Phone: 973-948-3040 Union County Phone: 908-654-9854 Warren County Phone: 908-475-6505
STANLEY OSUR The Premier Gardening Monthly Newspaper Number 147 Published Monthly Contact Information Phone: 908.604.4444 Website: www.GardenerNews.com E-Mail: Mail@GardenerNews.com Staff Executive Editor/ Publisher . . . . Art Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tom Castronovo Justin Kukuc Tom Castronovo
July Columnists Tom Castronovo Tim Hionis Evan Dickerson Larry Katz Craig Korb Douglas H. Fisher
Todd Pretz Jody Shilan Bob LaHoff Peter Melick Richard Perkins
Contributing Writers Bruce Crawford Jeannie Geremia Bradley Hillman
Kathleen Salisbury Gregory Covello, A.C.E.
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TIP OF THE MONTH
As summer heats up, some tomatoes have trouble setting fruit. Be patient, and you will start seeing little green tomatoes again when nights begin cooling down. Meanwhile, promptly harvest ripe tomatoes to relieve stressed plants of their heavy burden. Humid weather creates ideal conditions for fungal diseases like early blight, which causes dark spots to first form on lower leaves. Late blight is a more devastating disease that kills plants quickly; the only way to control it is to protect against it by spraying the leaves with an approved fungicide. You’ll also want to be on the lookout for pests. In mid-summer, keep an eye out for big green caterpillars called tomato hornworms. One or two hornworms can strip a plant leafless pretty quickly. Pick them off promptly if you see them.
Gardener News
July, 2015 27
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28 July, 2015
Gardener News
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