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2012 VNLA Officers & Directors OFFICERS President STEVE GRIGG - Education Grigg Design Inc ‘09 8193 Euclid Ct #A Manassas Park, VA 20111-4810 703-368-7539 Fax:703-368-2894 sgrigg@gdiva.com
2 YR DIRECTORS CHERYL LAJOIE Certification ‘09 Lancaster Farms 5800 Knotts Neck Rd Suffolk VA 23435-1353 757-484-4421 Fax: 7575-686-8637 Cheryl@lancasterfarms.com
1 YR DIRECTORS SONYA L. WESTERVELT Public Relations ‘10 Saunders Brothers Inc 2717 Tye Brook Highway Piney River, VA 22964 (434) 277-5455 fax: (434) 277-5394 sonya@saundersbrothers.com
Vice President MATT SAWYER - Research Bennett’s Creek Nursery ‘07 5635 Shoulders Hill Rd Suffolk, VA 23435-1807 757-483-1425 Fax: 757-483-9058 Matt@bcnursery.com
JOHN BARBIERI Membership ‘08 Riverbend Nursery 5408 Meadow Chase Rd Midlothian, VA 23112-6316 804-363-6758 Fax: 804-6395905 john@riverbendnursery.com VIRGINIA ROCKWELL Legislation ‘12 Gentle Gardener Green Design PO Box 418 Gordonsville, VA 22942-0418 540-832-7031 (cell) 434-531-0467 Virginia@GentleGardener.com
TOM THOMPSON, Environmental Affairs ‘10 Natural Art Landscaping 3540 S Belmont Rd Richmond VA 23234-2912 (804) 674-5703 Naturalartlandscaping@yahoo.com
Secretary/ Treasurer MATT SHRECKHISE Communications ‘08 Shreckhise Nurseries PO Box 428 Grottoes, VA 24441-0428 540-249-5761 fax:540-2495762 Matthew@shreckhise.com Ex-Officio Past President MARK MASLOW Resource Development Southern Landscape Group PO Box 397 Evington VA 24550-0397 434-821-6004 Fax: 434-821-2133 mark@soscapes.com Executive Director JEFFREY B. MILLER Horticulture Management Associates LLC 383 Coal Hollow Road Christiansburg, VA 24073-6721 1-800-476-0055 Fax: 540-382-2716 info@vnla.org
VNLA Newsletter
VNLA Newsletter
Educational Advisors DR. ROGER HARRIS VA Tech Horticulture Dept. Head Saunders Hall (0327) Blacksburg, VA 24061-0001 540-231-5451 Fax: 540-231-3083 rharris@vt.edu Dr. Jim Owen HARAREC 1444 Diamond Springs Rd Virginia Beach, VA 234553351 (757) 363-3804 jim.owen@vt.edu Beautiful Gardens® Plant Introduction Program LISA LIPSEY Program Coordinator VA Tech Dept of Horticulture (0327) Blacksburg, VA 24061 540-231- 6961 Fax: 540-231-3083 llipsey@vt.edu
DOUG HENSEL Beautiful Gardens ‘08 Great Big Greenhouse & Nrsy 2051 Huguenot Rd Richmond, VA 23235-4305 804-320-1317 FAX: 804-320-9580 doug@greatbiggreenhouse.com MANTS’ DIRECTORS JOHN LANCASTER‘02 Bennett’s Creek Nursery 3613 Bridge Road Suffolk, VA 23435-1807 757-483-1425 FAX: 757-483-9058 TOM SAUNDERS ’96 Saunders’ Brothers Inc. 2508 Tye Brook Hwy Piney River, VA 22964-2301 804-277-5455 FAX: 804-277-8010 DANNY SHRECKHISE Shreckhise Nurseries ‘12 PO Box 428 Grottoes, VA 24441-0428 540-249-5761 fax:540-249-5762 Danny@shreckhise.com
July / August / September 2012
July/August/September 2012
REGIONAL ASSOCIATIONS Central Virginia Nursery & Landscape Assoc Jim Hassold 804-377-1977 Jim@glenallennursery.com Eastern Shore Nurserymen’s Association John Owen 757-442-6717 jkgrowen@verizon.net Hampton Roads Nursery & Landscape Assoc Cheryl Lajoie (757) 484-4421 cheryl@lancasterfarms.com Northern Virginia Nursery & Landscape Assoc Amanda Caldwell ajcdenali@hotmail.com Piedmont Landscape Assoc Jessica Primm 434-882-0520 info@piedmontlandscape.org Shenandoah Valley Nursery & Greenhouse Assoc Matt Shreckhise 540-249-5761 matthew@shreckhise.com Directors at Large Mike Hildebrand ‘12 James River Nurseries 13244 Ashland Rd Ashland VA 23005-7504
804-798-2020 Fax: 804-798-2802
mchildebrand@ jamesrivernurseries.com
Dawn Lerch ‘12 Associate 1701 Ducatus Dr Midlothian VA 23113-4067 804-690-1374 (cell) Dawn50Lerch@verizon.net Bill Gouldin ‘12 Strange’s Florist/Garden Ctrs 3313 Mechanicsville Pike Richmond VA 23223 804-321-2200x331 wjg@stranges.com 3
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Table of Contents Ad - Bennett’s Creek Nursery ...................................... 13 Ad - Bremo Trees ......................................................... 68 Ad - Buds & Blooms Nursery ...................................... 27 Ad - BuyNCPlants.com ................................................ 55 Ad - Carolina Bark Products ........................................ 61 Ad - Colonial Farm Credit ........................................... 68 Ad - CW Reeson Nursery .............................................. 5 Ad - Eastern Shore Nursery of Virginia ....................... 23 Ad - Fair View Nursery ............................................... 61 Ad - Goodson & Associates ......................................... 53 Ad - Gossett’s Landscape Nursery ............................... 54 Ad - Guthrie Nursery ................................................... 41 Ad - Hanover Farms ....................................................... 9 Ad - Hardwood Mulch ................................................. 64 Ad - Hawksridge Farms ............................................... 65 Ad - John Deere Landscapes ........................................ 39 Ad - Johnston County Nursery Marketing Assoc ......... 64 Ad - Lancaster Farms ................................................... 43 Ad - Landscape Supply Inc .......................................... 47 Ad - Lilley Farms and Nursery .................................... 37 Ad - Maryland Plants & Supplies ................................ 57 Ad - Mid-Atlantic Solutions ........................................ 31 Ad - OHP - Sirocco ....................................................... 21 Ad - Pender Nurseries .................................................. 67 Ad - Plantsource N.C. .................................................. 45 Ad - Plantworks Nursery .............................................. 49 Ad – Shreckhise Nurseries ............................................ 57 Ad - SiteLight Id .......................................................... 33 Ad - SNA ..................................................................... 51 Ad - Tankard Nurseries ................................................ 25 Ad - TD Watkins Horticultural Sales .............................. 5 Ad - Virginia Turfgrass Council .................................. 62 Ad - Waynesboro Nurseries ......................................... 11 Ad - Willow Springs Tree Farms ................................. 34 Ad - Winfall Nurseries ................................................. 34 Ad -Turtle Creek Nursery ............................................ 29 Editorial - Remember When? ...................................... 12 Editorial - What it takes to be a Guerrilla Gardener? ... 10 Editorial - Why I Am a Volunteer ................................ 8 Events - Upcoming ....................................................... 66 Legislation - How to Contact Congress ......................... 7 Legislative - National Update: ANLA ......................... 38 Letter - Agriculture in the Classroom ............................ 7 Letter - North Carolina Research Service ...................... 8 Letter - Thank you to VNLA ........................................ 8 Letter - Thank You Virginia Agribusiness Council ...... 8 Letters - Eric Wiseman .................................................. 8
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News - “Biointensive Chic"” CVNLA ........................ 40 News - Boxwood Blight Update .................................. 17 News - CVNLA Thanks Sponsors! ............................ 18 News - Do they have Garden Centres in China and Japan? ...................................... 60 News - Funding Needed for Box Blight Research ...... 18 News - HRAREC Adds Research Staff ....................... 20 News - New Specialty License Plate 4TREES ............ 61 News - Rockwell Attains Certification Credential ...... 19 News - SNA: Summers Named EVP of Endowment ........................................... 20 News - State Fair Bankruptcy ..................................... 22 News - Strange’s Nationally Recognized ................... 19 News - Sustainable Landscape Ratings ....................... 22 News - University of Richmond Sustainable Program 24 News - VA Tech again ACC champs in Landscape Contracting Event ................ 26 News - VA Tech Hort Students Compete .................... 25 News - Virginia Gardeners Recycle: Statewide Container Recycling Program .................... 41 News- VSLD Elects New Board .................................. 10 Research - Weed Management Research Update ....... 44 Tips - Consumer and Trade resources to promote ....... 18 Tips - Room with a View Available for Immediate Occupancy ........ 42 Tips - Sustainable Practices Glossary .......................... 28 Tips - What is LEED? ................................................. 56 VNLA - Certified Horticulturist Exam Schedule ........ 66 VNLA - Certified Horticulturist Stamper .................... 32 VNLA - Beautiful Gardens ‘VT Spirit’ Daylily ............. 2 VNLA - Certification Quiz #60 ................................... 35 VNLA - Certification Quiz Article #60 ....................... 29 VNLA - Donations for VAC Appreciation Banquet ... 17 VNLA - Field Day & Summer Tour 2012.................... 19 VNLA - June 2012 Photo Contest ............................... 15 VNLA - Legislative Suvey Results ............................. 60 VNLA - MANTS “After Dark”Where And When It All Started ................. 16 VNLA - Member Profile: Nautilus Garden Designs ... 36 VNLA – Newsletter Advertising Specs ........................ 65 VNLA - Newsletter Changes ....................................... 17 VNLA - Photo Contest Rules ...................................... 15 VNLA - Photo Contest Winners .................................. 14 VNLA - Quiz Article - Sustainable Practices 3 of 3 ... 28 VNLA - Spring Board Meeting Minutes ..................... 48 VNLA -LEED Certification for Members ................... 56
July / August / September 2012 April/May/June 2012
Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
VNLA VNLAMission, Mission, Vision Vision and and Objectives Objectives for for 2006 2006
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dee2@sangresundance.net www.sangresundance.net dee2@sangresundance.net • www.sangresundance.net
PO Box 81402••970-240-0743 970-240-0743 July / August / September April/May/June 2012 2012 PO Box1895 1895• •Montrose, Montrose, CO CO 81402 January/February/March 2012 5 55 July/August 2006 2006 January/February
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Vol. 82, No.2; April/May/June 2012 Editor: Jeff Miller
Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc. 383 Coal Hollow Road; Christiansburg, VA 24073-6721 Internet E-mail Address: info@vnla.org www.vnla.org (Association Info) Vol. 82, No.1; January/February/March 2012 www.VirginiaGardening.com (Consumer Info) Editor: Jeff Miller Telephone: 540-382-0943 or 1-800-476-0055 Fax: 540-382-2716 Disclaimer: Published for your information, this newsletter is not an endorsement for individual products or editorial comments.
Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc.
383 Coal Hollow Road; Christiansburg, VA 24073-6721 These example people “getis it”.meadows. These areWill the One
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Will the er andlearned have wiser then how when to anticwe to know what regulations we savings in maintenance cost had VNLA ipate what a false could recovery. be comPresident’s be workingonwith. We We planwill focusing 3 main beon enough to encourage “Cautiously ing down theoptimistic” pike. This is need to participate in the Message areas: Industry Publipeople toAdvocacy; give it a try? Or the phase called experience. that I have What been formulation of these regulacations and anda will Communications it just be viewed as using and takes some hearing real lately. skill tions / laws or we will be for ticks, snakes and The growers though is to see thathow I have our Researchplace and Education. We will told what to do. Your As we toget ready toinshiptake mice to breed? talked Industry will have change been the on a new also prioritize each area. VNLAissues Boardinhas been paryear, forwardthis to working ping a Ilotlook future. of material ticipating thethat “process” One oftheme the in ways Ithat try toI One constant though with members spring.the Plus, the ofde-the VNLA and we are working to continue to learn and to see If you had told me 20 have felt, is to make make sure and members the sign/build peopleof have a difference. what others think is on the years ago what we as an we are doing what is best also been reportinghave inVNLA horizon is to meet and talk Industry Board. would We face as Please mark VNLA for the Industry. ThisField is a creases additional in sales activity. added with my fellow professionals. By the challenges today, Iexperiwould have just Day on your calendar. Sonya WesterAfter the last 2 hard and long winters, moving target and will ence to head the Board to Not only time you read this, we will have put shook my in disbelief. velt and Virginia Rockwell have been this non winterthe was a welcome relief. over time.Day All people compliment impresanother vary VNLA Field in the the local and national issues, but the putting in an incredible amount of It has let all of us get a very early willanot onshare whatideis books. What greatagree way to sive wethat already outsidetalent factors affect us. Why time planning this years’ event. This start, or we never stopped. best.is However, as long as as; see what new and what the andoes Europe affect my business? have serving. year the Field Day is at Battlefield as are. an IIndustry and ticipated we trends always come We have also all become much more Farms in Orange County Virginia. I ammost amazed at have how done much we, as an Like of us away having learned something. efficient and are all doing more with Trade Association are Also keep in mind the Horticulture Industry, in canbusiness, offer to our recently the clients toWhether from a classroom setting or less. This seems to be the mantra of viewed as the professional Garden Gala on Saturday June 9th. day. Outdoor VNLA Board haskitchens, taken a fireplaces, a quick 5and to 10 minute all business people, whether they are byconversation the public, The VNLA isexperts a sponsor again this sittinglook walls, project management, hard at who we are on the fly, I feel I come away with large or small. I love talking to small all of us will be doing our jobs. year. Details to follow on both presenting projects that are really and how we do it. We met in Lynchsome nugget that I can use in my business people, no matter what busilong term not just an exburg for 2 investments days to establish a StrateIevents. wish you all a healthy and prosbusiness. ness they may be in. It is like being in pense. AllWe items and concepts 20 gic Plan. discussed how tothat have Hoping year. we all have a great year. perous an exclusive fraternity of people who So, what is coming for us tomorrow? years agoimpact were not of what the most on part all areas thatwas afstill take risks, who become excited Can’t wait to find out! expected or accepted fect our Industry. This as is alandscaping tall order. when talking about what they do and to isthe consumer. Where It will It notaverage a job for just one person. is understanding that it is the spirit and Steve Grigg, go that fromwill here? This a fascinatawejob take theis talents and the mettle of the small business perVNLA President 2012 Regards, Steve Grigg, ing question! of many people. It also commitment son that drives the economy. VNLA President 2012 will not happen overnight. Plus, 90% of success is showing up, so we will 6 July / August / September 2012 6 July/August/September April/May/June 2012 2012 have to participate to achieve the results we hope to have and stay the course.
How to Contact How to Contact Congress Congress To contact your congressman and
senator, go your the www.vnla.org To contact congressman and click in the legislation tab/button, senator, go the www.vnla.org and and click on the “Legislative clickthen in the legislation tab/button, Update” or goon directly to: and then click the “Legislative Update” or go directly to: http://capwiz.com/anla/va/home/ Here, you can find Here, you can find your congressman your congressman and senators’ contact and contact info senators’ and can email info can email themand directly from them directly from this link. There this link. There are also summaries of are also issues summaries of current issues current and sample letters. and sample letters. “The squeaky “The squeakywheel wheelgets getsthe theoil!” oil!” “The squeaky wheel gets the oil!”
Support VNLA Member Growers! online @ www.vnla.org/ For a print copy, contact the VNLA Office at 800-476-0055 Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
VNLA - Website Upgrade
How to Log in The VNLA website has had a complete overhaul with a new design, re-organized info tabs and updated information. You can now log in and set up your user name and password. Access and update your contact information See the CEU’s that are recorded for you Virginia Certified Horticulturist Use the online store to order Certification supplies Renew your membership Additional capabilities will be added on an ongoing basis
Go to www.vnla.org/ Click on “Activate” in the left column Enter your email address. If you have an email address in the database, it will email your login info and let you setup a user name and password. Return to the main screen and login with your user name and password. Go to “My VNLA” and you can see your contact information, sales history, etc. If you do not have an email in the database, you can activate a new account and enter your information.
Letters – Garden Gala Thank You
On behalf of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and its students and faculty, we would like to thank you for the recent support of the 8th Annual Garden Gala by the Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association. The Garden Gala is the most important fundraiser of the year for the garden. The Gala helps provide the funding for operating expenses, including student wages. As you know, the facilities are a tremendous asset to the college, the university, and the community. Your contribution will play an important role in enhancing the garden's educational use. We deeply appreciate your continued support and commitment to the Peggy Lee Hahn Horticulture Garden and College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. If you should have any questions concerning the Peggy Lee Hahn Horticulture Garden or any of our other programs, please let us know. Alan L. Grant, Dean VA Tech CALS
VNLA Newsletter
VNLA Newsletter
July / August / September 2012
July/August/September 2012
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Letters – Scholarship Thank You
I am both honored and excited to be selected for the Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association's Albert James (Bert) Shoosmith Scholarship.
VNLA - Beautiful Gardens Update
Your investment in my education is an investment in someone that is committed to being a productive member of society and an investment in someone who truly believes in community. I sincerely appreciate your investment in my future and I promise to put your money to good use. I will make it my personal mission to be a good steward of your generosity by working as hard at Virginia Tech as I have to date in my high school years. Thank you for your commitment to my education. Landon Prever, Shoosmith Scholarship Recipient
Letters – Scholarship Thank You I would like to thank you for the generous donation I received by the Albert James Shoosmith Scholarship for the 2012-2013 academic year. The aid will greatly help me as I continue my education at Virginia Tech this fall.
Since the spring 2012 release of the VT Spirit daylily, interest in this first introduction of the Beautiful Gardens plant introduction program has continued to grow. Brent and Becky’s Bulbs, who are currently the single source of the VT Spirit, report they sold out of all plants available this past spring and have a waiting list of close to 2,000 for plants this fall and next spring. This early demand from consumers is a very good sign for the first release through garden centers in 2013.
It is a great privilege to be selected for this scholarship and I would like to let you know how much I appreciate this. I am happy to know that hard work really does pay off
Sincerely, Elizabeth H. Wilson Growing Virginia production of VT Spirit Daylily
8
Beautiful Gardens Committee meets with Growing Virginia staff and DRPP staff
The Beautiful Gardens committee will continue to monitor and promote the VT Spirit daylily as it establishes itself in the marketplace. VT Spirit is a patented plant that along with a marketing fee will generate income for the Beautiful Gardens program, IALR and breeder Linda Pinkham from each plant sold. Growing Virginia is a new firm owned and managed by Rory Smith and Chris Moore, new VNLA members. Their venture includes plant production, aquaculture, hydroponics and produce. Beautiful Gardens continues to maintain evaluation sites for the review of plants being considered for introduction or recommended as ‘plants of distinction’.
Again, thank you so much for selecting me as a recipient of the Albert James Shoosmith Scholarship!
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Supplying garden centers with the VT Spirit will require quality production along with a healthy volume of plants. Growing Virginia, in Danville, has committed to the purchase and finishing of 25,000 VT Spirit daylilies. The startup plants for this venture came from the tissue culture lab of the Dan River Plant Propagation Center (DRPPC) in Danville. They will be finished to retail sale size, 5 1/2”pot, allowed to bloom out the first time to guarantee color in the spring of 2013 and then sold to participating Beautiful Gardens garden centers.
July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
Rick Baker, VDACS Regional Marketing
Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
and Extension Center. “She positively impacted so many people — from horticulture students of all ages to colleagues, peers, and green industry professionals. Bonnie’s enthusiasm, creativity, and love of horticulture, especially trees, were obvious.” In 2006, Appleton was recognized by the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences with the Certificate of Teaching Excellence for her dedication to teaching and the positive impact her love of horticulture made on students.
Tribute to Dr. Bonnie Appleton In memoriam: Bonnie Lee Appleton, professor emerita of horticulture HAMPTON ROADS, Va., July 31, 2012 – Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences remembers Bonnie Lee Appleton, retired Virginia Cooperative Extension horticulture specialist, who died Saturday, July 21, 2012, in Norfolk, Va. A member of the Virginia Tech community since 1985, Appleton was based at the Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Virginia Beach until she retired in 2010. She was instrumental in the development of the horticulture department's off-campus graduate degree program. Appleton taught graduate classes and served as major advisor to more than 60 master’s degree students. Appleton developed an innovative, nationally recognized Extension program focused on the development and delivery of research-based technology on production and management strategies for the nursery, landscape, and arboriculture industries. “Anyone who met or worked with Bonnie quickly realized what an amazing person she was — always going at 100 miles per hour with multiple projects in the works,” said Laurie Fox, research associate at the Hampton Roads Agricultural Research VNLA Newsletter
VNLA Newsletter
versity Development (0336), Attention: Gift Accounting, Blacksburg, VA * Virginia Nursery and Landscape Association Research Fund, care of Exec Director Jeff Miller info@vnla.org . * Mid-Atlantic Chapter, International Society of Arboriculture, care of Exec Director Nancy Herwig, exdirector@macisa.org
Appleton strove each day to offer her students a personalized educational experience. Her extraordinary success as a teacher can be attributed to her vision, ingenuity, and ability to connect with a variety of audiences. According to her colleagues, Appleton traveled extensively, enjoyed teaching, and never hesitated to share information in whatever format was appropriate: workshops, classes, presentations, scientific journals, trade and popular press articles, interviews, expert testimony, extension publications, and books. “She had a passion for horticulture, especially arboriculture, and shared that enthusiasm with all who knew her,” said Pete Schultz, director, Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension Center. Appleton received her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from the University of Delaware and a Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University. In accordance with her wishes, there will be no memorial service, and her ashes will be scattered on the Chesapeake Bay. A tree will be planted at the Virginia Tech Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension Center in her memory. Correspondence can be addressed to her parents, Fred and Bobbie Appleton, 100 O’Brien Ct., Suffolk, VA 23434. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to a charity of choice or to the following: * Virginia Tech Master Gardener Association Endowed Fund, Virginia Tech Foundation, Virginia Tech, UniJuly / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
Photo by Karen Kelly, Shipp & Wilson She positively impacted so many people, from horticulture students of all ages to colleagues, peers and green industry professionals. Bonnie’s enthusiasm, creativity, and love of horticulture were obvious. She traveled extensively, enjoyed teaching, and never hesitated to share information in whatever format was appropriate - workshops, classes, presentations, scientific journals, trade and popular press articles, interviews, expert testimony, extension publications, and books. Bonnie was instrumental in the development of our unique off-campus MS program, and her biggest legacy is surely the very positive impact that she had on so many graduate students. Since the first graduation class in 1995, more than 60 students have gotten their diplomas through this program, most under the direct tutelage of Dr. Appleton. We will miss her, but we wish her well on that long list of post-retirement projects. Excerpt from VA Tech Horticulture Dept SEEDS AlumniNnews Vol. 18, 2011
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2013 Plants of Distinction Shrubs:
Juniperus horizontalis ‘Mother Lode’ Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Little Honey’ Ilex crenata ‘Drops of Gold’ Spiraea thunbergii ‘Ogon’
Perennials:
Aralia cordata ‘Sun King’ Hakonochloa macra ‘All Gold’ Hypericum calycinum 'Brigadoon' Liriope muscari ‘Pee Dee Ingot’ Sedum nokoense
Mother Lode Juniper Golden Oakleaf Hydrangea Drops of Gold Japanese Holly Mellow Yellow® Spiraea
Golden Japanese Spikenard All Gold Forest Grass Brigadoon St. John’s Wort Golden Monkey Grass Taiwan Stonecrop
“Bright, Bold and Beautiful” “Inject a Dose of Sunshine into Your Garden” Possible Liner Sources: McHutchison Briggs Plant Propagators Spring Meadow Nursery, Inc Iseli Nursery North Creek Nurseries
Jack Campbell David Johnson
www.mchutchison.com djohnson@briggsnursery.com
VNLA Member growers are needed to produce these plants for the 2013 marketing season. If you are now producing these plants are can begin production of these Plants of Distinction for 2013, Contact Lisa Lipsey llipsey@vt.edu 540-231-6961
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July / August / September 2012 2012 July/August/September
Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
DISTINCTIVE PLANTS FOR YOUR LANDSCAPE 2013 SELECTIONS
Bright, Bold and Beautiful Inject a Dose of Sunshine into Your Garden
Hakonochloa macra ‘All Gold’
Sedum nokoense
Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Little Honey’
Juniperus horizontalis ‘Mother Lode’
Ilex crenata ‘Drops of Gold’
Spirea thunbergii ‘Ogon’
Hypericum calycinum ‘Brigadoon’
Liriope muscari ‘Pee Dee Ingot’
Aralia cordata ‘Sun King’
VIRGINIA PLANT INTRODUCTION PROGRAM www.beautifulgardens.org
News Letters - Brookmeade Thank you for supporting our 7th AnSod Farm nual Legislative Golf Tournament on
June 12 at Mattaponi Springs Golf Receives Agribusiness Special Club. We had a terrific response Recognition Awardwith 112 players including a number of elected and appointed state officials, 18-hole sponsors, three food and beverage sponsors and numerous sponsors of gifts and prizes. This is a substantial increase from past years thanks to your efforts. This event is not only a very enjoyable way to promote agribusiness to all participants, but it also contributes to (left the to Council’s ability to represent right): Ginger Brooking, Chairour industry’s interest throughout the man of the Virginia Agribusiness Council yearBoard withof Directors the General Assembly, Eric Holter, Louis Governor’s office stateBrooking agencies, Brooking, and Louie congressional delegation and the genDoswell, – Brookmeade Sod eral public.Virginia Our significant accomFarm, Inc., family owned farm plishments are aattributable to the supbusiness locatedThank in Hanover port you provide. you. County, has received the Virginia AgribusiWe look forward to your joining us ness Council's 2012 Special Recogni-
again yearAgribusiness for out 8th Annual tion nest of an Award. Legislative gold of Tournament. Council Board Directors Chairman
Eric Holter of Staunton presented the Sincerely, Virginia Agribusiness Council
award during a meeting of the VirginEditor’s Note: The VNLA was a team ia Agribusiness Council Board of sponsor, prize and give away contributor Directorsand in Doswell on April a hole sponsor. 26. Louis and Ginger Brooking started Arbor Day Thanks Brookmeade Sod Farm, Inc. in 1968. Many the wonderful Today thanks the farmforoperation includes Swamp White Oak that was donated 300 acres and 16 employees. Turf toproduced Lorton Library for ArborSod DayFarm this at Brookmeade can be growing throughout the year. It’sseen doing well and sprouting Richmond metroasarea – from Kings new growth even I write. Dominion, the Innsbrook Office An article about the ceremony was Complex, Hollywood Cemetery, and featured on the library website the Virginia War Memorial, to many www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/ housing communities where all new lo/oaktreeplanting.htm. It was a lovely homes must have a front lawn before day and I know our neighbors will closing. enjoy the tree for many years. NotSincerely, only have the Brookings built a Lorton County Library successful business, but they have Note: Vice-Presiden,, also Editor’s selflessly contributed to the agriLou Kobus, provided theBrookings tree business community. The on behalf of VNLA. offer plots of land on their farm for research by the Turf Department at Virginia Tech and have endowed a
scholarship for a graduateBoard student in VNLA –Summer the Department. The farm is also conMinutes stantlyMeeting offered as an open-classroom to educate the public and members of Friday, June 23, 2006; the industry, offering "Spring 9:00 am to 12:30 pm Green Lawn Clinics" forHampton homeowners Virginia Room, Inn, to learn about sod,Royal, seed, VA general lawn Front care and more, and hosting the Farm 9:00 a.m. Young Call toFarmers Order –and Richard Bureau's AgriJohnson, calledprograms. the meeting culture inPresident the Classroom to order with the following people The Brooking's long-time and present: Lizzy Pine, Lesley friend Pine, Jeff representative to the Virginia General Miller, Bonnie Appleton, Duane Assembly, Butch Delegate John and CoxBilly (RShumaker, Gaddy, 55th) commented during the presenCrigler. tation, "I know of no other couple Guest Introductions – Bill Dutcher, that shares such enthusiasm of their President of the CVNLA, was introindustry than Louis and Ginger." duced andChairman welcomedEric to the meeting. Council Holter stated, "Brookmeade has shown a long-term Secretary’s Report, Butch Gaddy commitment to not only quality serreported that the minutes had been vice and industry involvement, but to printed in the VNLA Newsletter and public education as well." He went on emailed to the Board. A motion was to say, "In recognition of their sucmade to accept the minutes, seconded cess, their commitment to the indusand passed. try, and their support of the Council, we are proud to award Brookmeade
Ad Ad––Hanover HanoverFarms Farms
12 VNLA 12 Newsletter
July / August / September 2012
July/August 2006 July/August/September 2012
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7 Newsletter VNLA
Sod Farm with the 2012 Special Recognition of an Agribusiness award." The Virginia Agribusiness Council represents agricultural and forestry producers, suppliers, marketers, processors and commodity associations in the Commonwealth with a unified voice through its government affairs activities. The Council has a combined membership of over 40,000. For more information on the Virginia Agribusiness Council, visit www.va-agribusiness.org Contact: Blair Krusz, (804) 643-3555, (blair.agribusiness@att.net )
News – State Fair: New Partnership Between Farm Bureau and Universal Fairs will help build State Fair Of Virginia
cultural organization will be involved in developing the agricultural component of the fair, which Universal Fairs purchased at auction in May. The fair's former operators declared Chapter 7 bankruptcy earlier in the spring. Called Commonwealth Fairs and Events LLC, the new partnership will run the state fair as well as other shows and events at the 331-acre property in Caroline County. The first order of business will be to hold an exciting new state fair this fall from Sept. 28 through Oct. 7.
State Fair is Back! To help preserve the tradition of the State Fair of Virginia, the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation has entered into a formal partnership with Universal Fairs LLC of Cordova, Tenn. The Richmond-based nonprofit agri-
"Virginia Farm Bureau Federation and Universal Fairs have put together a partnership that we feel will help retain and grow the agricultural component of the fair," explained VFBF President Wayne F. Pryor. "Universal Fairs has a proven track record of putting on successful fairs in several locations around the country. We are very excited and look forward to working with them for many years."
Ad – Waynesboro Nurseries
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Go ahead …. shoot! Go ahead... shoot! Go …. shoot! Go ahead ahead …. shoot! aa Plant Plant Go ahead aa aNursery Plant…. shoot! a Plant
Nursery aaLandscape or installation installation LandscapeaDesign Design a Nursery a you Plantthink aIndustry Landscape Design or installation any Green object would make a great any Green Industry object you think would make a great photo a Landscape Design or installation a Nursery any Green Industry objectphoto you think would make a great any Green Industry object you think would make a great a Landscape Design or installation photo VNLA – Photo Contest any Green Industry objectphoto you think would make a great photo
August 2011 - Jennifer Seay
Insert previous photo winner from Mar/Apr issue, page 13 “Iris sibirica”
June 2011 - Kelly Connoley-Phillips
Photo folder: IrisDSCF8271_edited1.jpg
October 2011 - Dwayne Jones
VNLA Photo Contest VNLA Photo Contest A winner and prize for each bi-monthly VNLA newsletter VNLA Photo Contest A winner and prize for – 6each totalbi-monthly per year. VNLA newsletter A winner and prize for each bi-monthly VNLA newsletter VNLA Photo Contest Contest 6Photo total per year. One VNLA Grand Prize –winner chosen at the end of the year. December 2011 - Michele Fletcher
February 2011 - Brian D. Ross, Sr
April 2012 - Michele Fletcher
–for 6each total per year. A winner winner and prize bi-monthly VNLA newsletter One Grand Prizefor winner chosen at the end of theNewsletter year. A and prize each Quarterly VNLA One Grand Prize – winner chosen at the end of the year. total peryear. year. Details at: www.vnla.org/AboutVNLA/photography_contest.htm -46total per DetailsGrand at: www.vnla.org/AboutVNLA/photography_contest.htm Prizewinner winner chosen chosen atatthe end of the year.year. OneOne Grand Prize the end of the Details at: www.vnla.org/AboutVNLA/photography_contest.htm
Details at: http://tinyurl.com/cglkgos or go to www.vnla.org, click on tabs “membership” and Details at: www.vnla.org/AboutVNLA/photography_contest.htm “Photo Contest”
Winner of the July/August/September 2012 Photo Contest
VNLA - Photo Contest Rules 1. The contest is open to any photographer (amateur and professional) except members of Board of Directors of VNLA and their families. Entries are limited to VNLA members and their staff. 2. Each photographer may enter up to three (3) digital images per Newsletter deadline (see #6). E-mail images to info@vnla.org. Include your name, phone number and occupation. . One winning entry per photographer per year. You may reenter non-winning entries. 3. Please e-mail images separately. Feel free to elaborate on any story surrounding the photograph. Photos should be 300 dpi high resolution. 4. All photographs submitted must have been taken within the past five years.
Photo Winner: Lisa Lipsey
Beautiful Gardens Program Director, Blacksburg, VA
Photo was taken early June morning, 2012, at the Virginia Tech Hahn Horticulture Garden of the pond in the Jane Andrews Memorial Stream Garden.
Win $50, submit your photos!
Good Luck and Happy Photographing!
5. All photographs must be related to the Green Industry. The subject can be located in a nursery, back yard, or in a landscape--just so it is obviously related to the green industry profession. 6. Deadline for submission is 5:00 p.m. on the Newsletter Copy Deadline, which is the 15th of January, March, May, July, September and November. All submissions become the property of the VNLA. 7. Model Release forms are required with each photograph which contains a clearly identifiable person. Release forms are available from the VNLA office, on request, and are also available for download from the VNLA website at Model release in MS Word format or Adobe PDF format. Judging done by the VNLA Communication Committee. All decisions are final.
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[“State Fair” continued from page 13] UF's events include large fairs in Tennessee, Georgia and Washington state, a festival in Arizona and a variety of shows and expos throughout the United States. "Universal Fairs has extensive experience in running family-friendly, entertaining fairs, and Virginia Farm Bureau brings an exciting agricultural component to the mix," said OF President Mark Lovell. "We are new to Virginia, but we know how to run a fair. With Virginia Farm Bureau, a trusted organization that has been around for more than 85 years, we will be able to bring together the best of both worlds. I think that by working together we can help strengthen Virginia's agricultural stature and visibility through various shows, events and exhibits." Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell extended congratulations to Farm Bureau on the partnership, which he said "will further enrich the commonwealth's long-standing tradition that is the State Fair of Virginia. For more than 100 years, the state fair has educated and entertained millions of Virginians. Today's announcement helps to ensure that future generations of Virginians will continue to experience the best of what the fair has to offer. In addition, the Farm Bureau's investment will guarantee that agriculture, Virginia's largest industry, will be featured prominently—as it should be—at the fair for years to come." New agriculture-related events being planned include a 5-kilometer race sponsored by the Virginia Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom, which strives to improve the farm literacy of schoolchildren, as well as the Real Virginia Virtual Farm Tour. The tour will engage families at the fair and at home with a live online discussion about farming practices. Viewers will have their questions answered by a panel of farm experts and 16
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will "tour" a half-dozen Virginia farms via video. At each farm, the owners will be on camera to describe their operations. "Being the state's largest farm organization, and having as part of our mission the preservation of agriculture, we felt it was paramount to step up to the plate and assist with the fair," Pryor said. "It is a vital tool for helping the public understand the importance of the agriculture industry. We plan to carry this out through teaching exhibits, shows and competitive events that include livestock, poultry, fiber and produce. "Equally important to us is retaining the scholarship programs for youth who compete in livestock and equine shows through the FFA and 4-H organizations," Pryor added. "We also plan to continue competitions in photography, arts and crafts and other disciplines." Caroline County Board of Supervisors Chairman Wayne Acors said the county "is gratified that its monthslong recruitment of the Farm Bureau to participate in the State Fair of Virginia has resulted in the announced partnership. The Farm Bureau is the premier agricultural organization in the commonwealth and brings with it stability, integrity and a large membership that will be welcome in Caroline County at the state fair and at many other events. The State Fair of Virginia will be better than ever at The Meadow Event Park." With more than 150,000 members in 88 county Farm Bureaus, VFBF is Virginia's largest farmers' advocacy group. Farm Bureau is a nongovernmental, nonpartisan, voluntary organization committed to protecting Virginia's farms and ensuring a safe, fresh and locally grown food supply. For more information, contact Greg Hicks, VFBF vice president of communications, at 804-290-1139. Virginia Farm Bureau Richmond, VA
July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
News - PLNA, MAC Events Partner on PANTS Trade Show
August 3, 2012; HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association (PLNA) today announced that it has entered into a partnership with MAC Events, LLC of Spring Lake, New Jersey to produce its trade show, the Penn Atlantic Nursery Trade Show (PANTS). Although MAC Events produces shows throughout the country, PANTS will be their first show in Pennsylvania. “We are pleased to partner with MAC Events on PANTS,” said Jim MacKenzie, president of Octoraro Native Plant Nursery, Kirkwood, Pa. and the chairman of the PLNA board of directors. “MAC Events brings to PANTS extensive experience in producing green industry shows for both the trade and the public. We believe our exhibitors and attendees will benefit by this partnership.” PANTS long has been the East Coast’s premier summer trade show for the green industry. This past week, PANTS celebrated its fortieth year. MAC Events is excited to have the opportunity to produce a show like PANTS,” said Kevin McLaughlin, partner of MAC Events. “With our experience in producing green industry shows, PANTS is the type of show that fits perfectly with our company’s growth strategy.” MAC Events also produces NJ Plants – Professional Landscape & Nursery Trade Show each January in Edison, N.J. in partnership with the New Jersey Nursery and Landscape Association. The company also produces several public garden shows as well as trade and public shows in other industries and geographical areas. MAC Events will handle show production and logistics, marketing, advertising, and booth and sponNewsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
sorship sales for PANTS. PLNA will assist with educational programming, show promotion and contacts with Pennsylvania’s green industry. About MAC Events: MAC Events, LLC has been producing high-quality business-to-consumer trade shows in a variety of industries and markets since 1969 throughout the United States. MAC Events produces landscaping & nursery trade shows, home & garden shows and flower & garden shows concentrating their efforts in the Northeast. MAC Events is expanding into the business of producing trade events and providing professional event management for organizations, associations and businesses in other U.S. Markets. For more information, go to www.macevents.com About PLNA: The Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association is the leading trade association representing Pennsylvania's $6.8 billion green industry. Its 750 member landscape contractors, retail garden centers, wholesale nurseries and greenhouses produce outdoor living environments that improve economic value, air quality, water quality and human health. Learn more at www.PLNA.com. Gregg Robertson, President, PLNA 717.238.2033, www.PLNA.com Kevin McLaughlin, Partner, MAC Events 732-449-4004 x116
News – VT Horticulture Dept. Promotion Video Attached is a short promotional movie about our department. Thanks to Sarah and everyone who helped put this together. Help spread the word!
http://viscomm.unirel.vt.edu/video _upload/tmp/Final%20Hort%20vi deo.mov J. Roger Harris, Professor and Head, VT Department of Horticulture VNLA Newsletter
VNLA Newsletter
fessionals. The vote was prompted by a recommendation from a joint working group of elected ANLA and OFA leaders. Their recommendation folWashington, D.C. - The American lowed the announcement earlier this Nursery and Landscape Association’s year of a joint venture between the (ANLA) board of directors voted this two associations. “The first question week to explore the joint formation of we needed to address was whether a new trade association with OFA our members and the broader industry Map of Ad/4.5x7.25 8/30/04 10:27 AM Page 1 The ESN-117 Association Horticulture Pro-
News - ANLA & OFA Joint Association
Ad – Eastern Shore Nursery of Virginia
WH O C A R E S T H AT WE’RE PLANTED ON THE EASTERN SHORE? Maybe you should care. The Eastern Shore of Virginia is unique place – a narrow peninsula between the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, we’re blessed with temperate growing conditions, refreshing shore breezes and plenty of sunshine year round. Which gives us the perfect environment Eastern for growing happy, healthy plants. Plus we’re in Shore the ideal location to get our plants to you ASAP. Nursery Of Call Eastern Shore Nursery of Virginia Virginia today to order plants that have the best start in life money can buy. Keller, Virginia • 1-800-323-3008 • www.esnursery.com July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
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would benefit from our two associations working together,” says ANLA President Bob Lyons, Sunleaf Nursery, LLC (OH). “The clear answer that emerged was yes.” According to ANLA board member Dan Mulhall, Mulhall’s (NE), “The two organizations bring very different strengths to the table with little overlap.” Dan explains that ANLA offers the industry’s most-respected government relations program and executive education while OFA brings a world-class trade show and strong technical and management education. “This is not about cutting,” says Dan, “It’s about increasing the programming and services available to both memberships while increasing the audiences that support those programs.” The task force’s recommendation is that a new organization be established no sooner than July 2013 and no later than January 2014. The new organization will replace both ANLA and OFA. “The rest of the details are left to be decided,” says President Lyons. “Once you decide that something is the right thing to do, then you figure out how to get it done.” Pending a similar approval by the OFA board of directors, the two organizations will establish a process for defining the structure and activities of the new organization and communicate that process to their leaders and membership. In further development of the joint venture, following the scheduled retirement of ANLA Executive Vice President Bob Dolibois at the end of 2012, Michael Geary will become the chief staff executive of both OFA and ANLA beginning on January 1, 2013. The organizations will continue to be governed separately but Geary will lead the day-to-day operations of both associations. “In the meantime,” says Mulhall, “the activities of the joint venture, an18 18
nounced earlier this year, will continue, including working together on government relations activities and developing a new executive and key management education program, Next Level, which is being announced at the 2012 OFA Short Course, and will be held at the end of January 2013.” For more information on the partnership between ANLA and OFA and the Next Level conference visit www.onevoiceoneindustry.com . For additional information contact: Jonathan Bardzik, Director of Marketing and Industry Relations 202-789-2900
News - ANLA and OFA First Joint Event
OFA – The Association of Horticulture Professionals and The American Nursery and Landscape Association (ANLA) are scheduled to announce the development of a new, joint event on Monday, July 16 at the OFA Short Course. The new event, named "Next Level," will be held January 31 - February 2, 2013 at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel in Nashville, TN. According to OFA CEO Michael Geary, "Every individual, every organization has a next level, the next dimension of performance and results to realize. The Next Level event is designed to help participants clarify their own next level, expose them to the ideas and insights to help bridge that gap, and connect them to like-minded colleagues who can support their journey." The Next Level event will be unique in its focus on education that focuses attendees on working on their business, not just in their business. ANLA and OFA have retained the services of nationally-recognized educational event designer Jeffrey Cufaude to help plan this meeting. He will work with a planning committee made up of members from both organizations. With direction from volunteer leaders, an initial meeting with the staffs of OFA and ANLA, held in June, defined the goals for the conference. Bob Dolibois, ANLA's Executive Vice President stated, "Our July / August / September 2012 2012 July/August/September
industry faces a new normal in terms of the economy, our customers and our competitors. The top industry firms of the next 20 years need to identify how their businesses have to change in order to enjoy continued success. This meeting is the place where that will happen." The educational program is currently under development. Further details will be available at the end of September. For more information on the partnership between OFA and ANLA and the Next Level event visit www.onevoiceoneindustry.com . ANLA, a Washington, DC-based trade association, represents green industry business professionals seeking market leadership through advocacy with our nation’s government, a community of industry innovators and experts, and unique, profitabilityfocused programming, products and services. Through the Lighthouse Program, a partnership with green industry state and regional associations, ANLA represents more than 22,000 businesses before Congress and to the White House. OFA – The Association of Horticulture Professionals is the leading horticulture educational association in the United States. It is a non-profit, all-industry, educational organization and its core purpose/mission is “to support and advance professional horticulture.” Industry segments served include: garden centers, greenhouses, nurseries, retail and wholesale florists, and interior plantscapers. OFA is especially known for its outstanding publications and its annual OFA Short Course, U.S. horticulture’s premier convention and marketplace. The next Short Course will take place on July 14-17, 2012 in Columbus, Ohio USA. For additional information contact: Jonathan Bardzik, ANLA Director of Marketing and Industry Relations, Laura Kunkle, OFA Director – Communications & Marketing
Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
News – 8th Annual Garden Gala – “Key West”
More than 225 attendees enjoyed a bit of "Margaritaville" in the Hahn Horticulture Garden for one beautiful evening on June 9, 2012. The Key West Band of Roanoke set the mood with tropical favorites. Blue Ridge Catering created fantastic hors d'oeuvre and drinks. More than 100 items were featured in a silent auction as well as an exciting live auction with auctioneer Steve Culver.
The first Garden Gala was held in 2005; it has grown over the years into the best darn garden party in Blacksburg. Gala ticket sales, sponsorships, and auction proceeds this year netted more than $17,000 in operating funds for the Hahn Horticulture Garden. The Garden receives little in the way of operating funds from Virginia Tech, so the Gala fundraiser is critical to helping pay for student wages, maintenance, and garden renovations. Our Honorary Chairs this year were T. Marshall Hahn, Jr. and Jean Russell Hahn of Blacksburg. Marshall Hahn and his family have done so much for the garden over the years, from constructing the Pavilion and Meadow Garden to ongoing support for maintenance and more. This year, Anne Hahn Hurst donated the highlight of the live auction – a week's stay at the beautiful and historic Pagitt House in Old Town Key West that went for an all-time, Galarecord $3,400.
Steve Grigg, Holly Scoggins and Juanita Grigg welcome guests to the “Key West” Garden Gala
Honorary Hosts for the 2012 gala were long-time Garden Gala Sponsors and departmental supporters Steve and Juanita Grigg, of Grigg Design, Inc., a successful design/build firm in Manassas Park. Steve graduated from Virginia Tech in 1976 with a BS Degree in Horticulture. Steve is active on all manner of green industry and Virginia Tech boards and advisory committees. Steve is currently the president of the Virginia Nursery and Landscape As-
Over 40 acres of container shrubs, and field production. Ad – Turtle Creektrees, Nursery Make buying for your garden center easy this season with our wide selection of beautiful container trees and shrubs. Dogwoods Weeping Willows Cherries Rhododendrons Nandinas
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sociation. In March, 2010 Steve was selected as the Outstanding Alumnus from the Department of Horticulture at VA Tech for 2009-10. His wife and business partner Juanita has an Accounting degree from George Mason University and a storied career working with non-profit and charity organizations prior to joining Grigg Design. They both serve on the Advisory Board for the Department of Horticulture and generously give of their time as frequent guest lecturers. Steve and Juanita have also chosen to include the Horticulture Department in their estate plan and are members of Virginia Tech's Legacy Society. And as Key West is one of their favorite vacation getaways – the Gala theme this year was especially appropriate!
Finally, from all of us associated with the Garden, we appreciate the sponsors, auction item donors, gala guests, and gala volunteers – without your generosity, the Garden wouldn't be what it is today!
"Holly would like to express her heartfelt thanks for the continued support of the garden by the VNLA and its members." – Dr. Holly Scoggins, hollysco@vt.edu
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News – Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Quarantine for all of Virginia
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has expanded the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Quarantine to include the entire Commonwealth of Virginia.
http://pubs.ext.vt.edu/2904/29041290/2904-1290.html This is the link to EAB information posted on the VDACS website: http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/r eleases-a/072612eab.shtml Keep Up-to-Date on Invasive Forest Pests with Free Webinars from EAB University! www.emeraldashborer.info Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Research Update from Stanton Gill
emerald ash borer Agrilus planipennis photo by David Cappaert
This action became necessary after the recent detection of EAB in the counties of Buchanan, Caroline, Giles, Hanover, Lee, Prince Edward, Stafford and Warren. The quarantine previously included Arlington, Charlotte, Clarke, Fairfax, Fauquier, Frederick, Halifax, Loudoun, Lunenburg, Mecklenburg, Pittsylvania and Prince William counties and the cities of Alexandria, Danville, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, Manassas Park and Winchester. Under this statewide quarantine, the regulated articles, which include ash trees, green (non-heat treated) ash lumber and ash wood products, as well as hardwood firewood, are no longer subject to localized movement restrictions and may now move freely within the state. For additional information about the Emerald Ash Borer Quarantine call the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at 804.786.3515 For details about the Emerald Ash Borer, see the VT Factsheet: July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
The University of Maryland Extension held an emerald ash borer conference for foresters and city managers to discuss how to plan out control strategies for emerald ash borer. One of the speakers, Cliff Sadof, Purdue University, has an excellent emerald ash borer calculator program that can be used to calculate the cost of taking ash trees down and/or treating them with insecticide to extend their life. You can look at this calculator at www.treebenefits.com/calculator/ Cliff also talked about the best time for chemical applications. If you are using imidacloprid as a soil injection, then spring applications are best. For imidacloprid, sometime between midMarch and id-May is best. You will get one year of control. If you use dinotefuran (Safari, Transtect) then a spring application of mid-March to early June, either as a soil drench, basal drench or injection. You also get one year of control. If you are using emamectin benzoate (TreeAge) then applications in the spring can go up to late June and still be effective. This material at the mid-level rate gives 2 years of control. At the very high end rate it has been reported to give 3 years of control. The label says two years of control. TPM/IPM Weekly Report for Arborists, Landscape Managers & Nursery Managers, University of Maryland Extension, August 3, 2012 www.ipmnet.umd.edu Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
VNLA – Member Profile: Fred Duis, Duis Nursery
Fred Duis
When one enters hyper-adulthood, one doesn’t sit and ponder his favorite flower, his favorite color, or his favorite quote. What one does is to reflect on his body of work…beginning with his choice of careers and ending with his impact on family and community. And one must choose a metric with which to measure his life. Should it be measured in who ends up with the most toys? Should it be measured in numbers of friends? Is there a happiness quotient? Or should it be the assurance of nirvana, paradise or heaven?
Charlotte in the office
Of course the real metric that I use to measure my life is my Charlotte, our Mac and Sarah, their Sandy and Greg and the beautiful grandchildren Ella, VNLA Newsletter
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Will, Eli, and Ruby. But for the purposes of this publication, I concentrate my comments on those things that pertain to our common professions. I grew up in a household in which words prevailed….the spellings of words, the arrangements of words, the meanings of words, and the beauty of words. My mother was an English teacher and her greatest fear was that one of her children would make a grammatical mistake in public and embarrass her. So we were drilled on sentence structure, spelling, and syntax constantly but not in a pedagogical manner. Every word that we uttered was monitored. Every sentence was parsed. Every mistake was addressed. But it was accomplished in such a nice way that an observer would scarcely notice the correction. For instance, if I said that an event was “incredulous”, she would respond by asking me why it was so “incredible”, a gentle but effective correction of verbal course. She was the ultimate communicator. My father felt the same way about plants. To him plants, individual plants, were in the realm of the sacred. Having grown up in a taciturn German family on the Illinois prairie, he learned early on that life could be grim and the environment harsh. But out of that rich prairie loam came the abundant grace of the plant kingdom that led him to a career in horticulture. He was first a professor and, ultimately, a grower of ornamentals and the most beautiful vegetable gardens ever. Plants responded to his care as if they could feel his love. To him, gardening was akin to worship. To him, we each had an obligation to grow good food and feed our families with the coming bounty. Gardening was an opportunity to be part of something bigger than the trivialities of everyday life. It was an opportunity to be a functioning part of the biosphere. And by gardening, through his knowledge and perseverance, he could create sustenance where there July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
had been none. His validation was brought to the house in bushel baskets. He was the ultimate gardener. But when I was young, I detested the seemingly endless days in the garden. I once described the scale of our garden by saying that we couldn’t see the ends of the rows for the curvature of the earth. And there was the time that, at the end of a row of Lima beans that I was planting (by then I was in the next county), I just dumped the remainder of the beans in the end of the row, not realizing that within a few days a veritable forest of beans would appear at that spot. My father soon figured out what his son had done. Although he was a man of few words, he expressed his displeasure eloquently. But I remained his son.
Fred’s parents: William & Sarah Duis
Over time, I began to appreciate what both of my parents stood for. And when it became time to choose a career, horticulture seemed to be a discipline that could satisfy the need to express one’s self as well as the need to work with a medium through which the dynamics of growth, seasonal change, and interesting physiology could be intellectually challenging as well. 21 21
And so, armed with a B.S. in Horticulture from Virginia Tech, I set off on a life of lessons learned and intense satisfaction.
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Landscaping from 1969 until 1981, I soon learned that using plants in an artistic manner required not only the application of artistic principals, but the application of sound cultural practices. There were no short cuts and just because I thought that a certain plant might look good in a certain site, I could not force the issue. There were no substitutes for good site selection, good watering practices and good planting techniques. And no amount of rhetoric would allow me to talk around the science.
In 1981, my father died and I had the choice of continuing to landscape or buy the nursery and continue my career as a grower. Having tired of the frustrations of landscaping, I looked longingly for a career in which I could control more of the variables and in which I could deal with persons more knowledgeable in plant science. In 1981, container growing was in its infancy. Much of the material that we usedPMwasPage field2 grown and 10/20/2004 12:24
consequently had to be purchased and harvested during the dormant season and managed throughout the remainder of the year. As is the case now, weather conditions determined when and how successfully work could be done. And no matter how well a job was carried out, its ultimate fate would be determined by the quality of the maintenance by the owner.
So, in 1981, I continued my father’s growing operation with a focus on
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serving customers who had businesses much like I had had. We featured a broad range of ornamentals from shrubs to trees to perennials so that a small landscaping firm could come here and get nearly all that it needed to complete a job. Over the years we focused more on container growing until, at the present time, all that we produce is containerized.
which almost ruined the Tour du Pont as it entered Lynchburg. However, in 1995, I actually read one of the articles that I had written and it changed my life…and I hope the little city of Bedford. My thesis was that the value of urban gardens in mitigating their surroundings (stabilizing property values, attracting visitors, improving appearances) can serve as a valuable tool in reversing creeping blight. And, if my thesis proved to be correct, you and I, as horticultural professionals, could be validated. Furthermore, this was a chance to use my mother’s beloved words and my father’s beloved plants to prove that we all had chosen careers that have made differences in people’s lives.
Nursery Staff
Things were going along well until 1989 when I lost a bid for county supervisor after having filled an unexpired term. I had committed the treasonous act of voting for our first zoning ordinance and of sponsoring a smoking ordinance that caused one . wrinkled, wheezing citizen to say at a packed-house public hearing, “Where is my rights at?” At that point I rededicated myself to the business but for some reason felt somewhat unfulfilled. Our two wonderful children were growing up and doing well and they didn’t need their father as much. All day long, I was doing the things necessary to grow ornamentals. But could my mother’s influence be coming to the surface? Was it that I wasn’t expressing myself adequately? Was I missing the comfort that words, torrents of words, can give? Why did I write my first article for the VNLA Newsletter and what was it about? I can’t remember. But I knew that Jeff had given me a chance to release. Articles appeared featuring issues tangentially related to our industry such as education, rational man vs. faithful man (What was I thinking?), and a run-away cow VNLA Newsletter VNLA Newsletter
The Wharton Garden in the Beginning
I really didn’t apply the concept to our own community until I had lunch with a friend who was an avid gardener and the City Attorney for Bedford. Will Berry and I began to apply my concept to the area of our city that surrounded the Bedford Public Library which was being expanded. Just below the library were three historic structures that, at that time, were eiJuly/August/September 2012 July / August / September 2012
ther slated to be razed or were being abandoned by their owners. It happened that there were significant boxwood and wildflower gardens that had been established in the 1930’s which were surrounding the two houses. All were shaded by venerable Pecan trees of the same era. We named it The Wharton Garden and it is our community’s effort to honor the garden legacies of Mrs. Louise Wharton and Mrs. Eloise Gregory while, at the same time, restoring historic properties that were built either by or through the efforts of John Wharton. The Garden plan was prepared by Robert McDuffie, Landscape Architect, and it includes within its boundaries, the Bedford Central Library, the Charles and Louise Wharton House (circa 1886), the John Wharton Cottage (1848), the Bower Center for the Arts (originally St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1843, and The Bedford Christian Church, Disciples, 1924-2005). The Garden is situated on both City property and property belonging to the Wharton Foundation. The Wharton Cottage and Bower Center properties are set aside as a permanent garden easement .for the enjoyment of the citizens of the community. All improvements to the area of the Garden belonging to the City have become the property of the City. The Wharton Foundation began restoring the Wharton and Gregory gardens in 1997. Over the years we have received matching grants from the City of Bedford as well as donations from businesses and individuals. Each year, the Wharton Foundation receives giftsin-kind that allay the costs of annuals and other plants. Much of the labor that has helped establish the Garden has come from horticultural professionals, Master Gardeners and other volunteers at no cost to the Foundation or to the City of Bedford. Instrumental has been the contribution of Clare Robertson, our area’s preeminent horticulturist.
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area’s preeminent horticulturist.
The Wharton Garden
Indeed, the close relationship between the City of Bedford and the Wharton Foundation is an example of a well-established and successful public/private partnership. Over the years, the idea of a garden’s being the metaphor for restoring an urban area that was somewhat challenged by building neglect and owner flight has attracted well over $700,000 in private investment. Businesses have been established in the area and the
Bower Center for the Arts has been added to the City’s tax rolls. Our Wharton Foundation exercise has validated what we horticulturists do. Our products and services can contribute significantly to the economic and cultural well-being of a community. I might even venture to say that we are instrumental in establishing the spaces that are most fit for human habitation.
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We do have ongoing expenses involved in Garden maintenance. We hire a contractor to mow the grass and remove leaves in the fall. We pay an employee to water, remove trash, and maintain the annual and perennial beds during the growing season. We pay for the water that is needed to keep the Garden in prime condition. There have been expenses each year to remediate the gazebo and many of the benches because of vandalism. And we have supplemented the cost of donated statuary. In 2005, Dr. John Bower, a Mississippi nephrologists and a Bedford native son, gave us a single gift of $243,000.00 to purchase what is now the Bower Center for the Arts which had been the Bedford Christian Church. Dr. Bower did this in honor of his parents. His mother, Minnie, was a dedicated gardener and his father, Mitchell, was a tenor in the Presbyterian Church choir. Would we have gotten this gift if there had been no garden surrounding the Center? I think possibly not. The Bower Center is now a thriving arts education and performance center which features eclectic genres of music along with a music lab, a pottery lab, and an arts exhibition hall all in the midst of a beautifully landscaped setting.
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who is fighting scheduling and site anomalies and the garden center clerk who is undergoing the tedium of making a retail plant sale. Bless your hearts. Put us all together and we make a great team. Thanks to you all. Fred Duis
Bio-sketch: Fred Duis Born: May 14, 1947 Educated: Bedford County Public Schools Graduated: Liberty High School, 1965 Graduated: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, B. S. Horticulture, 1969
Duis Nursery Office Staff: Helen
In retrospect, I am thinking of everyone who has contributed to our business’ success: employees, customers, vendors, family members, Cooperative Extension, VT staff, VDACS inspectors, AEP and Verizon repairmen. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t appreciate the landscaper
Married: Charlotte Padgett Duis, 1969Children: Dr. Frederick McClelland Duis, Jr. (Dr. Sandra K. Duis) and Sarah D. Thomasson (Gregory A. Thomasson)
Grandchildren: Ella Francis Thomasson, William McClelland Duis, Eli Archer Thomasson, Ruby Lillian Duis President: Duis Nursery, Inc. Past Board Member: Virginia Nursery and Landscape Association Past Chairman: Beautiful Gardens™ Plant Introduction Project Founding Member and Former President: Wharton Memorial Foundation Supervisor: Bedford County, 1989 Former Member and Former President: Bedford Host Lions Club Virginia Nurseryman of the Year: 2007 Former Member Board of Directors: Bedford Chamber of Commerce Member: Bedford Lutheran Church Fred Duis, www.duisnursery.com
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Tips - Urban News - Shorts
Connecticut, he said. Many garden cenTarget Nutrient Management (part 1)their yards filled with ters still have now second most-shopped retailer
spring inventories. Area landscapers Target is now second only to Wal-mart, of report Kevin Hensler, Research Specialist Conservation and Recreation. more stable, steady business. according Retail Forward’s recent Senior, Croptoand Soil Environmental May 2011 New tax deduction report. Sciences, Virginia Tech One-quarter of The latestQuiz report Article from the National #61 Re- ShopperScape could apply to growers all U.S. primary household shoppers tail Federation shows building material Published by:Virginia visit a Target, Target Greatland or Suand garden supply dealers posted A new tax deduction could apply to Cooperative Extension perTarget store monthly. The report steady growth last month, up 8.4% unnursery crops, ANLA has announced. also found theby: retailer racks Project funded Virginia De- up repeat adjusted from the previous June. HowThe deduction, part of the American visitors. of Target’s past 6partment Two-thirds of Conservation and ever, seasonally adjusted comparisons Jobs Creation Act, applies to gross remonth customer base returns to its Recreation from the previous month show a 1% ceipts of any sale, exchange or other stores on a regular basis. Children’s decline. This is in line with the overall disposition of qualifying production Produced by: Communications apparel, decorative home fashions, retail sales fora June, which show strong If you are Virginia Certified Hortiproperty grown or extracted in the US. and Marketing, College of Agrismall housewares and appliances and year-over-year increases butanswer flat The deduction was phased in at 3% and culture and Life Sciences, Virginia culturist, read this article and toys generate the most interest among month-to-month gains. Sales will increase to 9% by 2009. One rePolytechnic Institute and State the quiz questions on rose page6.7% 35, shoppers. Target and Wal-Mart typiover last year, increased 0.2% striction is that the deduction cannot University fax/mail thebut Quiz Answeronly postcard cally share customers, the report shows. seasonally May.your “After exceed 50% of wages paid by the taxand get adjusted 1 CEU over towards reThis material based upon work months of speculation, consumers are WeeklyisDirt, Carol Miller, payer that year. The deduction is also certification requirements. supported by the Virginia Debeginning to pull back,” said NRF chief cmiller@branchsmith.com available to individuals via their adpartment of Conservation and adapted Roasalind from the Wells. Urban “Retailers Nutrient economist justed gross income. ANLA helped Recreation, under Agreement New England summer canManagement expect the second half of the year Handbook secure the new tax deduction for nurs50301-2009-01-SF. Any slide opinions, retail sales to show moderate gains due to the ery growers in cooperation with the Content Coordinators: Michael Goatfindings, conclusions or recomslowdown in the housing market and Small business Legislative Council in After a strong April, garden center ley Jr., Professor, Crop and Soil Envimendations expressed in this pubother economic factors.” 2004. sales across new England hit a decline ronmental Sciences, Virginia Tech lication are those of the author(s) due to a stretch of rainy weekend, said Science takes a shot and do not necessarily reflect the Bob Conn.Department Nursery & landview Heffernan, of the Virginia at dormant weed seeds scape Association Executive Secretary. Weed control can be tricky, especially Soggy gardening considering weed seeds can lie dormant conditions were for years waiting for favorable condiproblematic Ad––Winfall Winfall Nurseries Nurseries Ad – Will Springs Tree Farms Ad tions. USDA scientists are looking at enough for the developing fungi and bacteria that will Boston Globe to target these banks of thousands of milrun an article on lion of dormant seeds. The concept is to the situation in bolster the activity of beneficial miJune. Sale were crobes that already exist in the soil. particularly bad This concept could be considered “prenorth of pre-emergence control,” as traditional pre-emergence herbicides kill weed seeds just at the stage of germination when tiny seedlings are emerging from seeds.
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Chapter 7. The Ornamental Landscape
Chapter 7. The Ornamental Landscape Laurie Fox, Research Associate, Hampton Roads Agriculture Research and Extension Center, Virginia Tech
• Overall site goals and objectives.
Introduction Fertilization is an important part of landscape management. Plants need nutrients to survive, and while many of the essential elements are already in the soil, fertilizer is often added to supplement those nutrients. Fertilization is a common cultural practice often made complex and confusing by the wide variety of fertilizer products on the market. The simple objective is to supply plants with nutrients in a form they can use at the time they most need them in a way that produces a healthy, attractive landscape while being environmentally sound.
Site Assessment and Environmental Design Site Assessment A site assessment provides critical information for any landscape nutrient management plan. The information from a site assessment supports short- and long-term nutrient planning as well as the environmental sustainability of the overall plan. A site assessment should be conducted every five to seven years and should include information that will assist the landscape manager in making the best nutrient management decisions. Information to include in a site assessment: • Site boundaries. • Rainfall amount and distribution throughout the year. • Water movement (on and through/off site for runoff and leaching potential). • Management area delineation and size (e.g., turf, annuals, natural areas, etc.). • Categories of plants (both existing and future additions; see “Plant Categories,” later in this chapter). • Condition of existing plants (healthy, stressed, etc.). • Previous management strategies. • Results of soil test(s). • Site accessibility. • Site management goals, short- and long-term. • Special landscape situations. VNLA Newsletter
• Location relative to environmentally sensitive areas or proximity to storm drainage and bodies of water.
Urban Soils There are many special situations to consider in the ornamental landscape, and one of the most pressing issues is the fact that the growing medium is usually a drastically altered urban soil where much of the native topsoil is removed during development (see chapter 3). Subsoil — deficient in essential nutrients and lacking desirable physical properties — becomes the new topsoil in many situations. Or perhaps soil of unknown origin and composition is brought onto the site. Construction is also a factor affecting the performance of these soils. Urban soils tend to be heavily compacted, poorly aerated, poorly drained, and low in organic matter. Fertilization of landscape plants will not be effective until these adverse growing conditions are corrected. In fact, unhealthy soil cannot sustain healthy plants and can lead to nutrient pollution of surface and groundwater through runoff and leaching of the applied nutrients.
Site Design Nutrient management is also affected by proper environmental design. Plants with similar nutrient needs should be grouped together in the landscape when possible to avoid improper rates of fertilizer application and to utilize fertilizer most efficiently. Landscape areas with mixed categories of plants are more challenging to manage. These areas may need to be subdivided into smaller management areas based on plant category and nutrient needs, or they may need to be fertilized using a “middle-of-the-road” approach where all plants get some nutrients but none is managed optimally because of the diverse plant mix.
BMPs Special landscape design features such as buffers, bioretention or rain gardens, and green roofs are commonly used in landscapes to manage stormwater (see chapter 12). They are called landscape best management practices (BMPs) and are used to slow down stormwater and provide an opportunity for it to be filtered by the plants, soil, and microorganisms before it either runs
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Chapter 7. The Ornamental Landscape into natural surface water sources or percolates down to recharge groundwater sources. Plants in these BMPs should be fertilized only once when they are planted (usually in the individual planting hole) in order to get them established. These plants act as biofilters, absorbing nutrients from the stormwater; they DO NOT need any additional nutrient applications.
Correct Plant Selection and Planting Plant Selection Correct plant selection is the first critical step to a successful landscape. • Choose plants that are adapted to the environmental and site conditions. • Select plants that naturally have few pest problems or are pest-resistant. • Choose plants that meet the landscape goals and design parameters. • Install plants at the correct spacing to account for their mature size, avoid crowding, and reduce longterm maintenance.
Plant Categories Following are some basic definitions that apply specifically to landscape plants: • Annuals are plants that complete their entire life cycle in one growing season. They germinate from seed, flower, set seed, and die in the same year. • Biennials are plants that live for two years. They usually form vegetative growth in the first year and flowers and fruit/seed the second year.
Planting No amount of fertilizer will improve a plant’s health or growth if that plant is installed incorrectly. Correct planting is essential for growing healthy roots and getting a plant established quickly in a landscape. Without a healthy root system, a plant can’t absorb nutrients efficiently or effectively. In addition, many nutrient applications are made at the time of planting, either in the planting hole or to the planting bed area. See Appendix 7-A, Tree and Shrub Planting Guidelines, Virginia Cooperative Extension publication 430-295 for details on correct planting.
Determining the Need to Fertilize Plants need 17 elements for normal growth. These are divided into two groups based on the amount of each needed by plants. Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen are found in air and water. Nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, and sulfur are found in the soil. The six elements found in soil are used in relatively large amounts by plants and are called macronutrients. There are eight other elements that are used in much smaller amounts and are called micronutrients, or trace elements. The micronutrients, which are found in the soil, are iron, zinc, molybdenum, manganese, boron, copper, cobalt, and chlorine. All 17 elements — both macronutrients and micronutrients — are essential for plant growth. See chapter 4 for more detailed information. Fertilizer should be applied when plants need it, when it will be most effective, and when plants can readily absorb it. How and when to fertilize landscape plants depends on factors like:
• Perennials are plants that live for three or more years.
• Maintenance objectives: stimulate new versus maintain existing growth.
• Bulbs are short, modified, underground stems surrounded by (usually) fleshy, modified leaves that contain stored food for the shoot within.
• Plant age: generally more for younger and less for older woody plants.
• Herbaceous plants lack a permanent woody stem and die back to the ground every winter. • Woody plants have permanent woody stems, are perennial, and go dormant in the winter but do not die back to the ground. These plants grow from aboveground stems year after year and include shrubs, trees, and some vines. 28
• Plant stress levels: stressed plants can sometimes benefit from additional fertilizer. In addition to soil testing (see chapter 5), a visual inspection of plants is often used in making fertilization decisions. Look for: • Poor or chlorotic leaf color (pale green to yellow). • Reduced leaf size and retention.
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Urban Nutrient Management Handbook
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Chapter 7. The Ornamental Landscape • Premature fall coloration and leaf drop (shrubs and trees). • Overall reduced plant growth and vigor. Foliar or tissue analysis can also be used to help determine whether supplemental fertilization is needed (see chapter 5). Avoid late-summer or early-fall fertilization while plants are still actively growing because this stimulates late-fall growth, which can be killed by freezing temperatures.
If the soil is too alkaline (i.e., high pH), the pH can be lowered by adding sulfur. It is not practical or advisable to change the soil pH more than one to two levels. Whenever possible, it is best to select plants that grow well in the existing conditions.
Factors Affecting Nutrient Uptake
Soil Tests (See chapter 5.) The purpose of a soil test is to provide information to make wise choices regarding fertilizer and soil amendment. An initial soil test will provide baseline information on the condition of the soil and can include soil type; pH; available phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium; organic matter; and soluble-salt levels. Soil tests can also provide fertilizer and lime recommendations based on the specific crop being grown. Subsequent tests can be used to monitor changes and improvements in soil health. For ornamental landscape areas, soil testing should be done every three to five years. Each management area in the landscape should have its own test in order to customize the nutrient management plan for that area and avoid incorrect applications. For example, separate tests should be done for the turf, perennial beds, tree and shrub or naturalized areas, and annual beds. Soil test guidelines should be closely followed to assure the greatest plant response with the least chance of plant damage or possibility of water pollution. Many soils in Virginia have adequate phosphorus levels, making it unnecessary to apply more through fertilizers. Soil sample kits are available at local Extension offices and most libraries. There are private companies that also do soil testing. Fees vary. For best results, carefully follow the instructions given in the soil sample kit. The accuracy of the test is a reflection of the soil sample taken. Be sure the sample is representative of the area to be treated.
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at any time of the year, but it is ideal to apply lime in the fall and winter months when there are several weeks to months for the chemical reactions to take place before the next growing season.
Numerous factors affect nutrient uptake by plants. The most important factors include: • Fertilizer form: inorganic, fast-release, or liquid forms are usually absorbed faster than organic, slowrelease, or dry forms. • Soil type: clay particles and organic matter adsorb or bind more nutrients than sand, so fertilizer application needs to be more frequent in sandy soils but with lower rates each time due to leaching potential. • Soil moisture content and soil temperature: nutrient uptake is faster in moist, warm soils. • Fertilizer placement and application timing and method. • Plant vigor: plants under stress are less able to take up available nutrients due to damaged or reduced root systems.
Fertilizers Forms (See chapter 8.) All fertilizers are labeled with three numbers that give the percentage by weight of nitrogen (N), phosphate (P2O5), and potash (K2O). 1. Nitrogen is important for leaf and stem growth and provides the rich green color in a plant. 2. Phosphorous (derived from phosphate) provides for root, flower, and fruit growth.
Soil pH, a measure of acidity, has a significant impact on the plant’s ability to use nutrients. Most ornamental landscape plants prefer a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Within this range, the essential nutrients are available to most plants, and soil microorganisms can carry out their beneficial functions.
3. Potassium (derived from potash) helps build plant tissue and aids in disease resistance, cold hardiness, and the production of chlorophyll.
If the soil is too acidic (i.e., low pH), the pH can be raised by adding lime. Lime applications can be made
The analysis, or grade, of a fertilizer refers to the minimum amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus (in the form
Proper use of nutrients can control rate and character of plant growth.
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Chapter 7. The Ornamental Landscape P2O5), and potassium (in the form K2O) in the fertilizer. The analysis is always printed on the fertilizer label. A fertilizer with a 10-10-10 analysis contains 10 percent nitrogen, 10 percent P2O5, and 10 percent K2O. For example, in 100 pounds of 4-8-12, there are 4 pounds of nitrogen, 8 pounds of P2O5, and 12 pounds of K2O. Fertilizers may be divided into two broad categories: natural and synthetic. Natural fertilizers generally originate from unprocessed organism sources such as plants or animals. Synthetic fertilizers are manmade or processed. Synthetic fertilizers can be organic (e.g., urea) or inorganic (e.g., superphosphate). Natural fertilizers commonly misnamed “organic” can also contain inorganic ores such as rock phosphate. Most nutrients from living or once-living organisms are not readily available for plant growth because they are bound in organic molecules such as proteins and amino acids and in structures such as cell walls. These nutrients are released only by microorganisms decomposing the organic matter. Cottonseed meal, blood meal, bone meal, hoof and horn meal, fish emulsion, and all manures are examples of organic fertilizers. Organic fertilizers usually contain relatively low concentrations of actual nutrients, but they perform other important functions that the synthetic formulations do not. These functions include increasing organic content of the soil, improving physical structure of the soil, and increasing bacterial and fungal activity. “Slow-release” fertilizers may be synthetic or natural. Because nutrients are released over an extended period of time, slow-release fertilizers do not have to be applied as frequently as other fertilizer types. Also, higher amounts of slow-release fertilizer can be added at each application without risking injury to plant roots. Slowly released nitrogen is used more efficiently because a higher percentage is absorbed by plants. The higher efficiency of slow-release fertilizers means less nitrogen is available to contribute to pollution of surface and groundwater. While slow-release fertilizers are generally more expensive, when an analysis is done to determine the cost of the nitrogen absorbed by the plant, the unit cost is actually less for slow-release materials. “Water-soluble” or “liquid” fertilizers (which are not the same) are applied either to the soil or foliage. Numerous water-soluble fertilizer formulations are available, from plant starter, high-nitrogen fertilizers to minor element formulations. Chelated iron is used extensively for prevention and control of iron deficiency in azalea, rhododendron, and other popular ornamentals. VNLA Newsletter
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“Combination” products that contain fertilizer mixed with a herbicide, insecticide, or fungicide should be considered carefully. Herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides should be selected and applied based on the crop being grown and the pest(s) being managed. Often, the timing for a fertilizer application does not coincide with that of another product, and off-target or unintentional injury to the plant could result from a combined application.
Placement Because most landscape plant roots grow in the top 12 inches of soil, surface or shallow application (6 to 9 inches) is recommended. Fertilizer can be added to an individual planting hole, incorporated into the planting hole backfill or into an entire bed area, or spread over the plant’s root zone. With the last method, the fertilizer should not be concentrated around the stem or trunk of a plant but where the majority of the absorbing roots are actively growing. For annuals, this is from the canopy edge extended out by 6 inches. For perennials, this is from the canopy edge extended out 6 to 12 inches. For trees and shrubs, fertilizer should be applied over an area extending two to three times the canopy spread. Research has shown that tree roots grow far beyond the drip line of established trees. Do not concentrate fertilizer in holes drilled under the tree canopy, but instead use a broadcast application beyond the tree canopy for better growth.
Application Timing Research shows that plants actively absorb nutrients from the soil during the growing season and require few nutrients during the dormant winter season. In general, apply fertilizer as soon as plants begin breaking dormancy in the spring and avoid fertilizing after the first fall frost, which signals plants to slow growth in preparation for winter dormancy. Late-summer and early-fall fertilization may stimulate new growth that is not winter hardy. Do not fertilize during stressful environmental conditions. Drought causes plants to slow their growth. That, combined with insufficient soil moisture, reduces nutrient absorption and could increase the potential for root injury from fertilizers. Too much rainfall or irrigation can cause nutrients to run off or leach, potentially contaminating water sources. Incorporate the fertilizer into the bed or planting hole when there is frequent rain or irrigation to avoid runoff or leaching problems.
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Chapter 7. The Ornamental Landscape The frequency of fertilization depends on the type of plants being fertilized and the type of fertilizer used. Slow-release fertilizers are commonly recommended so that one application lasts for the entire growing season. If general-purpose, water-soluble fertilizers are used, two or three applications applied four to six weeks apart may be needed to make it through the growing season. Fertilizer should be applied to newly planted landscape ornamentals to help them establish quickly.
Application Methods Five methods — (1) liquid injection, (2) drill hole or punch bar, (3) surface application or fertilizer stakes or spikes, (4) foliar spraying, and (5) tree-trunk injection or implants — are discussed here. Each serves a specific role depending on the site and plant health. Table 7.1 summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of the five application methods. Regardless of the method selected, the soil should be moist at the time of fertilization to prevent fertilizer injury to the plant. 1. Liquid injection (primarily for trees). Through liquid injection into the soil, fertilizer solutions are placed in the root zone. This is an excellent method for correcting nutrient deficiencies. Injection sites should be 2 to 3 feet apart — depending on pressure — and 6 to 9 inches deep. Fertilizing deeper than 9 inches may place the fertilizer below the absorbing roots, preventing plant use. When using this method in summer or during periods of drought, the soil should be moist before application. 2. Drill hole or punch bar (primarily for trees). A major advantage of the drill-hole system is the opening of heavy, compacted soils, which allows air, moisture, and fertilizer to move into the soil. The drill holes should be placed in concentric circles or in a grid system around the main stem beginning 3 to 4 feet from the main stem and extending beyond the drip line (see figure 7.1). Space the holes 2 feet apart and drill them 6 to 9 inches deep. The recommended rate of fertilizer for the area should be uniformly distributed among the holes and is based on the root-zone space under the tree (and not the trunk diameter). The holes can be filled either with organic material such as compost or inorganic materials such as gravel, sand, or calcined clay. 3. Surface application. A broadcast application of granular fertilizer at the appropriate rate and time is made to the ground surface or on top of mulch in landscape beds. It is best to water the fertilizer in 32
Figure 7.1. Liquid injection drill hole or stake diagram.
slowly, soon after application. This method is very common, but the results can be slow because it takes time for the nutrients to filter into the soil and to the absorbing roots. 4. Fertilizer stakes or spikes. Fertilizer in the form of stakes or spikes, is driven into the soil in a grid pattern similar to that made with liquid injection fertilizer applications. Because lateral fertilizer movement is limited in soil, root system to fertilizer contact is reduced with this method. The general product recommendation of one or two stakes per inch of trunk diameter often does not provide an adequate fertilizer amount or efficient distribution. 5. Foliar spraying. Spraying liquid or water-soluble fertilizer on the foliage is best for correcting deficiencies of minor elements, especially of iron and manganese. Absorption begins within minutes after application, and with most nutrients, it is completed within one to two days. Foliar nutrition can be a supplement at a critical time for the plant but cannot replace soil fertilization. This method should not be used as a means of providing all the nutrients required by plants. Several applications during a growing season may be necessary. This method is generally not practical for large landscape trees. 6. Tree-trunk injection or implants. The infusion of liquid or implants of fertilizer directly to the tree trunk is often the best method for correcting iron and manganese problems in large landscape trees. This method is especially useful in areas of adverse soil pH, high moisture, or where other means of applica-
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Urban Nutrient Management Ornamental Landscape (part 1) Prepared by: Sandy Miller
1. A site assessment provides critical information for a specific landscape nutrient management plan. A. True B. False 2. Plants with similar nutrient needs should be grouped together in the landscape when possible to avoid: A. Drought B. A boring layout C. Improper rates of fertilizer 3. How and when to fertilize landscape plants depends on factors like: A. Maintenance objectives B. Plant Age C. Plant Stress Levels D. All of the above 4. If the plant is installed incorrectly, fertilizer will remedy the problem. A. True B. False VNLA Newsletter
VNLA Newsletter
5. An initial soil test will provide: A. Accurate water needs B. Baseline information on the condition of the soil. C. PH of soil only 6. With soil moisture content dry and soil temperature cool: A. Nutrient uptake is faster B. Nutrient uptake is slower 7. Most landscape plant roots grow in the: A. Top 6 inches of soil B. Top 12 inches of soil 8. Slow release Fertilizer is synthetic only. A. True B. False
13. Plants growing in the sun generally require more fertilizer than those in shade. A. True B. False 14. To determine whether a granular fertilizer has slow release properties: A. Do a leach test. B. Check the analysis label . 15. Granular slow-release fertilizers can last from 15 to 20 months. A. True B. False
9. There 5 methods of application for fertilizers; liquid injection, drill hole or punch bar, surface application or fertilizer stakes or spikes, tree-trunk injection or implants and ______________? A. Aerial Application B. Wand Method C. Foliar spraying 10. Bulbs love high nitrogen fertilizer. A. True B. False 11. Many synthetic fertilizers are salts, much like our familiar table salt, except that they contain various plant nutrients. A. True B. False
Support VNLA Member Growers! online @ www.vnla.org/ For a print copy, contact the VNLA Office at 800-476-0055
12. The quantity of fertilizer applied on established ornamental depends on: A. The analysis of the fertilizer used. B. The area fertilized. C. The amount of growth desired. D. The depth of soil only. E. All of the above. F. A, B, C only. July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
35 35
Chapter 7. The Ornamental Landscape tion are not practical. The wounds or holes caused by the injections to the trunk should close within a growing season. Monitoring the wounds until they are healed is recommended to make sure insects or diseases do not become a problem.
Table 7.1. Advantages and disadvantages of application methods. Application method
Advantages
Disadvantages
Subsurface
• Aerates soil.
• Special fertilizer and drilling or soil injection equipment needed.
• Convenient.
Foliar sprays
• Relieves symptoms of micronutrient deficiencies.
Injection and • Relieves implantation deficiency symptoms.
• Temporary benefits. • Doesn’t address underlying soil problem. • Temporary benefits. • Wounds create entry for insects/ diseases.
Source: Virginia Cooperative Extension publication 430-018 (VCE 2009a).
Overfertilization Many synthetic fertilizers are salts, much like our familiar table salt, except that they contain various plant nutrients. If the concentration of fertilizer is too high, and if tender plant roots are close to the fertilizer granules, water is drawn from these roots. Plant cells in these roots begin to dehydrate and collapse. The plant roots are “burned” or dried out to a point where they cannot recover. Foliar injury, often in the form of marginal leaf burn, is also a result of too much fertilizer. Newly transplanted ornamentals are under stress while they are trying to adapt to their new location, and they can be easily injured by overfertilization. Reduce fertilizer rates when plants are growing in restricted areas (sidewalk cuts, parking lot islands) or where roots of multiple plants overlap. It is important to apply fertilizer at the proper time and rate. Overfertilization can cause other problems in addition to plant injury. Avoid getting fertilizer on sidewalks and driveways where it can easily wash into storm drains and, eventually, into creeks, streams, and rivers. Nutrients, particularly nitrogen, become a water quality problem through leaching or run-off. 36
7-6
Specific Fertility Needs Annuals and Bedding Plants Generally, a slow-release, complete fertilizer at a rate of 2 to 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet is incorporated into the bed at planting time for seasonlong nutrients. Sometimes a liquid or water-soluble fertilizer is applied at 0.5-1.0 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet at planting to jump-start the annuals until the slow-release fertilizer takes effect. Additional overthe-top fertilizer applications are not recommended because damage can occur to the plants when fertilizer contacts the stems, blooms, or foliage.
Bulbs Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can cause foliage growth at the expense of blooms. A single fall application of 1 to 2 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of a slow-release, complete fertilizer incorporated into the bed or planting hole at planting time is best. Several formulations of bulb fertilizer are available, like 9-9-6, 4-10-6, 5-10-20, or 10-10-20. They often go by names like “bulb food,” “bulb booster,” or “bulb tone.” The common formulation 9-9-6 is ideal for most types of bulbs, including garden lilies, tulips, etc. For daffodils, use slow-release 5-10-20 or 10-10-20, if it is available. A topdressing of well-rotted manure or compost applied in the fall is also beneficial for bulbs (see chapter 9).
Perennials Generally, a slow-release, complete fertilizer at a rate of 1 to 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet is incorporated into the bed or planting hole at planting time. If planting in the fall (September through November), use 1 pound of nitrogen incorporated, followed by a second application of 2 to 3 pounds of nitrogen broadcast the following spring (March or April). Always water the bed after applying fertilizer to established plants to wash the fertilizer off the foliage and prevent injury. If planting in the spring, use 3 to 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet incorporated. This should be enough to carry plants through the summer. Do not exceed 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per year.
Shrubs and Trees Generally, a slow-release, complete fertilizer at a rate of 1 to 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet is incorporated into the bed or planting hole at planting time or surface-applied around the canopy edge or drip line
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Chapter 7. The Ornamental Landscape of the plant. If planting in the fall (September through November), use 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet, followed by a second application of 2 to 3 pounds of nitrogen the following spring (March or April). Additional applications of 2 to 3 pounds of nitrogen can be made each spring for the first three to five years, particularly on young trees to encourage establishment and quick growth. For established shrubs and trees, use 2 to 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet in the spring (March or April), every three years. Do not exceed 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per year. Trees growing in turf areas will obtain nutrients from the fertilizer that is applied to the turfgrass. Do not apply excess fertilizer to turf in an effort to fertilize trees because injury to the turf may occur. Some species such as roses (Rosa spp.), red-tip photinia (Photinia x fraseri), and English laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) are more demanding, while others like ornamental grasses, silver maple (Acer saccharinum), willow (Salix spp.), privet (Ligustrum spp.), forsythia (Forsythia spp.), hollies (Ilex spp.), and junipers (Juniperus spp.) require less fertilization. Species like azalea, dogwood, hemlock, and rhododendron have shallow root systems that are easily damaged by fertilizers. Here, split- or low-rate applications of slow-release fertilizers are recommended. A low-rate application (1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet) may also be appropriate for shrubs and trees under stress, such as from disease, drought, construction, or storm damage. Plants growing in shade generally require less fertilizer than those growing in the sun, while those growing in sandy soils generally require more frequent fertilization than those in clay soils, due to nutrients leaching from sandy soils. Water-soluble fertilizers should be applied in split applications to minimize leaching potential and, where possible, use slow-release nitrogen sources on sandy soils.
Fertilizer Calculations (See chapter 10.) The quantity of fertilizer applied on established ornamentals depends on: • The analysis of the fertilizer used.
Area To determine how much fertilizer to apply, first measure the area to be fertilized. This involves measuring the length and width of a bed in linear feet and multiplying the two numbers to obtain the square footage. Landscape beds can be addressed individually, or several can be added together for total square footage. Few plant beds are perfectly square or rectangular, so square off the rounded areas to simplify the calculations. See Appendix 7-B, Maryland Cooperative Extension publication, How to Measure Your Yard for additional information (www. hgic.umd.edu/_media/documents/hg306.pdf). Trees growing within a bed can be included in the bed estimate or, if they require special fertilization, estimate their canopy area by measuring the distance from the trunk to the drip line (this is called the radius). Then use the geometric formula for the area of a circle to calculate the area of the canopy (3.14 x radius2). For example, if the distance from the main trunk to the drip line of a tree is 20 feet, the area beneath the canopy is 3.14 x (20 x 20) = 1,256 square feet. See the guidelines above for additional recommendations on tree fertilization amounts and placement.
Conversions To convert from actual amount of nitrogen recommended to amount of fertilizer, divide the amount of nitrogen desired per 1,000 square feet by the fertilizer analysis or grade. For example, if you have an 18-612 fertilizer, how much is needed to apply 3 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet? Divide 3 pounds of nitrogen by 0.18 ( percentage of nitrogen in fertilizer) to get 17 pounds of fertilizer.
Fertilizer Selection Fertilizers differ in nutrient content and release duration. The type of fertilizer selected is based on: • Cost.
• The area fertilized.
• The types of plants being fertilized.
• The amount of growth desired. Nitrogen controls vegetative growth, so application rates are based on this primary nutrient. Low rates of fertilizer are recommended, particularly for a lower 38
maintenance landscape. As the application rate of fertilizer increases, so does the amount of new growth, which requires more water, more fertilizer, and more pruning.
• The type of growth response desired. • Time of year. • Application methods.
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Chapter 7. The Ornamental Landscape • Equipment cost.
Granular slow-release fertilizers can last from three to twelve months after application.
• Proximity to water sources. • Effect of soil type and pH. • Type of deficiency. • The existing nutrient content of the soil. To determine whether a granular fertilizer has slowrelease properties, check the analysis label. Nitrogen listed in the form of ammoniacal nitrogen indicates that the product probably isn’t slow-release. If the nitrogen is listed as being derived from urea, urea-formaldehyde, IBDU (isobutylenediurea), or sulfur-coated urea, the release duration of the product will be increased.
Other commonly available, slow-release fertilizers on the market include Osmocote granules, Osmocote tablets, Jobe’s Spikes, Woodace briquettes, Agriform tablets, and Milorganite. These fertilizers generally cost more per pound than general-purpose granular fertilizers such as 10-10-10 or 12-4-8, but they also last longer and don’t need to be applied as frequently. Organic fertilizer sources such as bone meal, cottonseed meal, and animal manures can also be used. Compost is another good source of slowly available nutrients. Tables 7.2 - 7.5 will help with fertilizer selection.
Table 7.2. Chemical fertilizers, analysis, speed of reaction, and effect on soil pH.
Analysis
Speed of reaction and leaching
Soil reaction
Pounds of each fertilizer required to get 1 lb N/1,000 sq ft
Ammonium nitrate
33-0-0
Rapid
Acidic
3.0
Ammonium sulfate
20-0-0
Rapid
Very acidic
5.0
Urea
46-0-0
Rapid
Slightly acidic
2.0
Ureaformaldehyde
38-0-0
Slow
Slightly acidic
2.5
Di-ammonium phosphate
18-46-0
Rapid
Acidic
5.5
Calcium nitrate
15-0-0
Rapid
Alkaline
6.5
Potassium nitrate
13-0-44
Rapid
Neutral
7.5
10-10-10
10-10-10
Rapid
Varies with N source
10.0
Osmocote
18-6-12
Slow
Acidic
5.5
Fertilizer
Source: Virginia Cooperative Extension publication 430-018 (VCE 2009a).
Table 7.3 Average nutrient content of various organic fertilizer sources. Fertilizer source
% Phosphorus (P2O5)
% Potash (K2O)
13.0
—
—
Bone meal, raw
3.5
22.0
—
Bone meal, steamed
2.0
28.0
—
Cottonseed meal
6.6
2.5
1.5
Fish scrap, dried
9.5
6.0
—
Soybean meal
7.0
1.2
1.5
Horse manure
0.7
0.3
0.6
Cow manure
0.6
0.2
0.6
Pig manure
0.5
0.3
0.5
Sheep manure
0.8
0.3
0.9
Chicken manure
1.1
0.8
0.5
Duck manure
0.6
1.4
0.5
Blood, dried
% Nitrogen (N)
Source: Georgia Cooperative Extension bulletin 1065 (2009). 40
7-8
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Chapter 7. The Ornamental Landscape
Table 7.4. Recommended fertilization rates for newly planted ornamental plants during the first growing season (use only one of the fertilizers listed at the rate recommended). 12-4-8
16-4-8
10-10-10
Application rate /plant
Plant type/size
*
Application frequency
1-gallon shrubs
1 tsp
1 tsp
1 tbsp
March, May, July
3-gallon shrubs
2 tsp
2 tsp
2 tbsp
March, May, July
5-gallon shrubs
3 tsp
3 tsp
3 tbsp
March, May, July
Trees under 4 feet
1 tbsp
1 tbsp
2 tbsp
March, July
Trees 4-6 feet
3 tbsp
3 tbsp
5 tbsp
March, July
Trees 6-8 feet
4 tbsp
4 tbsp
6 tbsp
March, July
1.0 lb
Each 4-6 weeks
Application rate 100/sq ft Ground covers, annuals, and herbaceous perennials
0.5 lb
0.5 lb
Source: Georgia Cooperative Extension bulletin 1065 (2009).* When using slow-release or soluble fertilizers, follow label recommendations for application rate.
Table 7.5. Recommended application rates of various general-purpose granular fertilizers on established ornamental plants in the landscape. Application ratea 1,000 sq ft Source
100 sq ft
10 sq ft
Pounds
Cups
Pounds
Cups
Tablespoons
10-10-10
10.0
20.0
1.0
2.0
4.0
8-8-8
12.5
25.0
0.5
2.5
5.0
13-13-13
6.0
12.0
0.75
1.5
3.0
12-3-6
6.0
12.0
0.75
1.5
3.0
12-4-8
6.0
12.0
0.75
1.5
3.0
12-6-6
6.0
12.0
0.75
1.5
3.0
16-4-8
6.0
12.0
0.5
1.0
2.0
4-12-12
25.0
50.0
2.5
5.0
10.0
5-10-10
20.0
40.0
2.0
4.0
8.0
Source: Georgia Cooperative Extension bulletin 1065 (2009). This rate will supply 1 pound of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. For optimum growth of young shrubs, ground covers, and trees, three to five applications are recommended at six- to 10-week intervals from March to August. Application frequency varies with the amount of slow-release nitrogen in the product, so consult the label for specific recommendations. Established trees and shrubs will benefit from one to two applications during the growing season. Annual flowers and roses should receive applications at four- to six-week intervals from March to August. When using slow-release or specialty fertilizers, follow the manufacturer’s recommendation on the container.
a
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Chapter 7. The Ornamental Landscape
Organic and Other Soil Amendments (See chapter 9.)
Nutrient Deficiencies
Amendments can improve soil structure, drainage, and nutrient-holding capacity, making the soil a more favorable place for root development and nutrient uptake. Soil improvement or building is a continual process in the landscape. The regular addition of manures, compost, cover crops, other organic matter, and amendments can raise the soil nutrient level to a point where the addition of synthetic fertilizers is greatly reduced, and in some cases, no longer needed. This highly desirable soil quality does not come about with a single or even several additions of organic material, but rather requires a serious, long-term program.
Each of the 17 essential elements has a specific role in plant growth. A deficiency or an excess of any one will impair plant growth until the problem is corrected. Iron and manganese are the micronutrients most often deficient in landscape plants. An adjustment in soil pH usually corrects deficiencies of the micronutrients. Some symptoms of nutrient deficiency in woody plants are listed below (North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service 1996).
Table 7.6. Element and foliar deficiency symptoms.
44
Element
Foliar deficiency symptoms
Nitrogen (N)
• • • • • •
Potassium (K)
• Partial chlorosis of most recently matured leaves in interveinal area beginning at tips, followed by necrosis. • Older leaves may become brown and curl downward.
Calcium (Ca)
• • • • •
Magnesium (Mg)
• Marginal chlorosis on older leaves, followed by interveinal chlorosis. • Margins may become brittle and curl upward.
Sulfur (S)
• Uniform chlorosis of new leaves. • Older leaves are usually not affected.
Iron (Fe)
• Interveinal chlorosis of young leaves (sharp distinction between green veins and yellow tissue between veins). • Older basal leaves greener, exposed leaves blanched.
Manganese (Mn)
• Interveinal chlorosis of young leaves beginning at margins and progressing toward midribs, followed by necrotic spots.
Zinc (Zn)
• Young leaves may be yellow, small, deformed, or mottled with necrotic spots. • May be a tuft of leaves at shoot tips.
Boron (B)
• Terminal growth dies; later growth that develops has sparse foliage. • Young leaves may be red, bronzed, or scorched. • Leaves may be small, thick, distorted, or brittle.
Copper (Cu)
• Rosetting of foliage, terminal growth may die. • Leaf symptoms not usually pronounced, but veins may be lighter than blades.
Molybdenum (Mo)
• Cupping of the older leaves. • Marginal chlorosis followed by interveinal chlorosis.
7-10
General yellowish-green; more severe on older leaves. Stunted growth with small and fewer leaflets. Early leaf drop. Dark green to blue-green; slightly smaller leaves. Veins, petioles, or lower surface may become reddish-purple, especially when young. Death of lower needles in pines.
Death of terminal buds. Tip die-back. Chlorosis of young leaves. Leaves may become hard and stiff. Root injury is the first apparent symptom.
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grasses planted in the near future. The contractor has installed the first three walls and there will be 5 more coming.
Jimmy Dick, SmartSlope, Living Retaining Walls, www.smartslope.com jdick@furbishco.com
Legislation - Campaign Launched to Encourage ‘YES’ Votes for Private Property Rights Virginia landowners will be confident that their private property cannot be taken and given to another private owner under eminent domain if the commonwealth’s voters approve Question 1 on the November 6th ballot. Bi-Partisan legislation passed by the General Assembly was signed by Gov. Bob McDonnell on July 16 to place a proposed constitutional amendment on this fall’s ballot to protect the private property rights of Virginia’s farmers, small businesses and individuals. The amendment spec-
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ifies that eminent domain cannot be used unless it is for a true public use and further ensures just compensation for the landowner including the opportunity for lost access and profits to be considered as part of just compensation. The language in the amendment also clarifies what is a true “public use” and specifies that no more land than is necessary can be taken. The “Private Property Rights” amendment and companion legislation was supported by Attorney Gen. Ken Cuccinelli and patroned by Sen. Mark Obenshain (R-Harrisonburg), Del. Rob Bell (R-Albemarle), and Del. Johnny Joannou (D-Portsmouth). At the July 16 bill signing, a coalition of private property rights advocates announced the launch of a campaign encouraging Virginians to “Vote YES for Private Property Rights.” “Our members are excited about the opportunity that this constitutional amendment will provide. No longer will our farms, homes or businesses be taken and given to another private property owner under K e l o - type eminent domain abuses,” said Wayne F. Pryor, president of Virginia Farm Bureau Federation. “Our members are grateful to Governor McDonnell, Attorney General Cuccinelli and the General Assembly for understanding that sometimes, the government may want someone’s property for a well-agreed public use, but taking someone’s home, farm, or business so someone else can develop the land is just plain wrong,” said Nicole Riley, state director for the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB). “This amendment ensures that if property is taken for a legitimate public use private property owners will be justly compensated.” Elected officials “have given Virginians the opportunity to approve this historical measure,” added Katie K. Frazier, president of the Virginia Agribusiness Council. “Our job now is 46
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to educate the public on what this constitutional amendment does and why it is important to them, and we’ll be doing so through grassroots activism and communication.” The “Vote YES for Private Property Rights” campaign is supported by the Farm Bureau, the NFIB, the Virginia Agribusiness Council, the Virginia Forestry Association, Americans for Prosperity, the Family Foundation of Virginia, the Virginia Poultry Federation, and other advocacy groups. The coalition will be working through the fall, posting campaign signs, distributing literature, and organizing other promotional activities. Contact Trey Davis, VFBF assistant director of governmental relations, at 804290-1017 Nicole Riley, NFIB state director, at 804-377-3661 for more information or Katie Frazier, President of the Virginia Agribusiness Council at 804643-3555. (katie.agribusiness@att.net)
Legislation - Special Report: Farm Bill Jumps Another Hurdle What’s Next? Defying the odds so far in a time of political gridlock and dysfunction, the every-five-years legislative expression of the nation's agricultural policy known as the Farm Bill has cleared several hurdles. In June, the bill passed the Senate on a rather bipartisan vote of 64-35. Most Democrats supported it, though a few opposed cuts to the food stamp program. Some Republicans supported it, though many did not. Republican no votes included a mix of southern Senators concerned with cuts to the rice, cotton, and peanut programs, and fiscal conservatives who wanted deeper cuts across the bill. Next, in the overnight hours of July 11-12, the House Agriculture Committee approved its version of the Farm Bill by a bipartisan margin of July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
35-11. Most no votes were from Democrats concerned over even deeper cuts to the food stamp program. But in an interesting twist, the Committee's version actually adds funding for several specialty crop programs popular among both Democrats and Republicans with significant fruit, vegetable, nursery, greenhouse, and Christmas tree crops in their districts.
What’s In It? The 2008 Farm Bill was the first to include major new programs designed to support the specialty crop sector, including nursery and floriculture. Specialty crops represent roughly half the value of all U.S. crop production, but have historically been a farm policy afterthought. The 2008 bill changed that, but not with direct subsidies. Rather, the bill invested in "infrastructure" that improves the success potential of these sectors. This has meant added funding for research, plant pest prevention and control, marketing and promotion, nutrition, and similar initiatives. For the American Nursery & Landscape Association and our state and regional partner associations, the top priorities have included the Pest and Disease Program, National Clean Plant NetNewsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
work, Specialty Crop Research Initiative, and Specialty Crop Block Grant program. Both the Senatepassed bill, and the House Ag Committee product, sustain and even increase funding for these efforts. Both bills would combine Pest and Disease and Clean Plant Network into one program, which works so long as the funding is sufficient. The former is funding a wide array of pest survey, rapid response, research and development, and similar efforts. One example: just a few weeks ago, this program was the vehicle for roughly a half-million dollars to fund a coordinated research response to the new pest threat of boxwood blight. The National Clean Plant Network has expanded and strengthened the capacity for safe importation, pathogen testing, and clean-up of the newest varieties of high-value nursery stock like apples, peaches, citrus, grapes, and berries. The program is enabling new efforts to har-
monize certification and interstate shipping requirements for such crops. The Specialty Crop Block Grant program, also enhanced in both the Senate and House Ag versions, has enabled the launch of the Plant Something program (www.plantsomething.org). This program, started in Arizona and expanding to other states, has the exciting potential to grow into a quasi-national promotion program for the green industry. Finally, on research, the House Ag version of the bill seeks to dramatically strengthen industry involvement in ensuring that funded projects are industry-relevant and high impact.
What Else to Watch? In the House Ag Committee’s deliberations, ANLA and allies secured an amendment to an existing "business and industry" loan program that, while modest in scope, could improve access to working capital for some businesses still strug-
gling with the credit crunch. And, early indications are we have successfully avoided "energy title" policies and funding that might divert horticultural inputs like tree bark used for growing media and mulch, or dramatically increase their cost.
The Path Forward The Farm Bill's logical next step is action on the House floor. But when and how that might happen are anyone’s guess. House Speaker John Boehner has never been a friend of the Farm Bill, and especially its traditional row crop subsidies. While those subsidies are largely replaced in the current bill with a new insurance scheme, Boehner may still fear an insurrection in his own party by fiscal conservatives who want to take a meat cleaver to the bill. Also, billions in cuts to food stamps (which actually represent the majority of Farm Bill spending) may expose Republicans to charges that they are insensitive to the hardship and hunger afflicting poor
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Americans.
program will be lost.
try’s needs and prevent duplication.
Still, the Farm Bill could offer a rare election-year opportunity for bipartisan action. So don't rule out the chance for it to clear the remaining hurdles either pre- or post-election. If it doesn't, Congress will have to kick another can down the road, again, into next year by extending the current law.
Who is benefiting from this litigation? First and foremost, current H2B users, who have had another year to operate under the program they understand. Secondly, future users. Any economic improvement is going to mean growing labor scarcity. Same with ongoing immigration enforcement, mostly in the form of employer I-9 immigration audits. Seasonal businesses that aren't using the program now need to think about the value of having it available tomorrow, or next year.
Although this disease has been known about since the 1990’s, with its first discovery in the United Kingdom, more information about its biology and epidemiology is coming to light. A recent discovery in Connecticut further exemplified the need for research into the biology of Boxwood Blight, strategies for managing it, and the development of resistant varieties. In June, the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) confirmed that an established landscape bed of Pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis) was found to be infected by boxwood blight. This discovery adds a layer of complexity to disease management. Coordinated efforts like the Farm Bill funded research program will help the industry meet this and other new challenges.
Fight To Preserve H2B At Critical Point The H-2B temporary and seasonal worker visa program is, for many green industry employers, the only safety net for hiring seasonal nonagricultural workers. In good times, landscape installation and maintenance firms have been the single largest user of the program. This reflects the large number of seasonal, manual labor positions in the industry; often, few American workers seek such job opportunities. But the program is under assault. The Obama administration, doing the bidding of labor unions who hate foreign worker programs, has tried to push forward two rules that would fundamentally damage the program, leaving it unworkable for many. The first rule, dealing with H-2B wages, has been delayed temporarily by Congress. The second rule, a sweeping program rewrite, has been challenged in the courts by a diverse yet small group of affected employer and association plaintiffs. On April 27, 2012, a federal judge in the Northern District of Florida issued a preliminary injunction preventing DOL from implementing its H-2B program rule. This decision was a huge victory for H-2B employers, and has helped preserve a workable H-2B program. However, the battle goes on until the judge rules. Legal proceedings in the case continue and the legal bills are quickly adding up. Unless the affected industry steps up to fully fund the effort, the best shot at defending the 48
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Industry businesses and associations able to contribute to preserving the H-2B safety net at this critical juncture in the battle should contact either Craig Regelbrugge at the American Nursery & Landscape Association (cregelbrugge@anla.org) or Laurie Flanagan, co-chair of the H-2B Workforce Coalition (lflanagan@dclrs.com).
Boxwood Blight: Meeting The Challenge The generally dry spring in most of the East has likely suppressed Boxwood Blight (Cylindrocladium pseudonaviculatum) and has played a role in preventing its spread. However, methods for dealing with this challenging disease must be identified if Boxwood (Buxus spp.) is to remain a cornerstone plant of our landscapes. In late May, a significant step in this direction was realized when the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA-APHIS) provided $550,000 in funding for Boxwood Blight research. The proposal was based on the research priorities identified by the industry-based Boxwood Blight Working Group and focuses on developing rapid diagnostic tools, studying disease epidemiology, and identifying disease treatment strategies. The awarded researchers have worked closely with ANLA during their grant writing process and continue to collaborate to maintain a streamlined effort in line with indusJuly / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
Rose Rosette Disease Goes Rogue
Dawn Dailey O'Brien, Cornell University, Bugwood.org
Cultivated roses are facing a growing challenge from Rose Rosette Disease (RRD), a native pathogen that only in recent years has shown potential to negatively impact landscape and garden rose varieties. RRD causes a variety of odd-looking symptoms including peculiar red growth, excessive thorniness, elongated shoots, deformed blooms, pliable canes and often leads to the eventual death of the plant. The disease was first recognized in the 1940s but was never fully characterized. Based on some similarities to other better defined Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
pathogens, it is thought to be caused by a virus or plant specialized bacterium called a phytoplasma and spread by an eriophyid mite (Phyllocoptes fructiphylus). The disease is likely endemic to the continental U.S. and causes no visible symptoms in some native species of Rosa, such as R. setigera and R. palustris. Multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) is particularly susceptible to RRD and its decades-long march, as an invasive plant, across much of the continental U.S. has likely been the source of inoculum and responsible for spreading the disease. Contaminated mites are easily blown from wooded or forest edges where diseased plants may reside, to nearby landscape and nursery plants. Multiflora rose is so susceptible and the disease is so destructive that some interested in controlling invasives considered using RRD as a biological control against multiflora rose.
surrounding areas and the use of pesticides that kill the vectoring mites are currently the best defenses against this problematic pathogen. However, the long term resolution of this issue will likely rely on breeding new cultivars with disease resistant lines. Fortunately, federal, academic, and industry researchers are collaborating on this effort and intend to make any new developments available to growers and consumers.
News - GreenCare for Troops Hailed at the White House
This article is provided by the VNLA and ANLA as a Lighthouse Program partner benefit
The White House ceremony was attended by Obama and Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden. The event was part of the White House’s Joining Forces Initiative. Led by Obama, the program ultimately recognized 20 organizations and communities dedicated to providing exemplary support to military families.
Eradication of multiflora rose from
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correspondent; First Lady Michelle Obama; and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden.
“Our country’s military families sacrifice so much for all of us on a daily basis, providing environmentally beneficial lawn and landscape services for them is the least we can do to provide them with a healthy yard so they can focus on their jobs and families,” said Cindy Code, Project EverGreen executive director. “To have Project EverGreen’s GreenCare for Troops program acknowledged by the White House is incredibly humbling and a testament to the importance of our organization and its programs.”
“Jill and I are so proud of all of these finalists and the work that they have done for our military community,” said Obama, “Our military families demonstrate such strength, service and sacrifice every single day, and we’re so grateful for everyone who is stepping up to give back to these families. The challenge winners are leading by example, and showing that all of us can find a way to serve those who serve us.”
GreenCare for Troops pairs military families with a family member currently deployed overseas with a local landscape contractor or volunteer to provide free lawn care and landscaping services.
Brokaw recognized the inspiring citizenship displayed through these programs. In her brief presentation, Biden briefly described three of the 20 programs, including GreenCare for Troops.
The Joining Forces Initiative was a year-long program designed to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary efforts of citizens and organizations across the country that are working to improve the lives of military families. The initiative was also an opportunity to highlight some of the successful programs across the country and help spur others to create new programs to help even more families.
Project EverGreen’s GreenCare for Troops has seen tremendous growth since it began five years ago and shows no signs of slowing down. GreenCare for Troops program has served thousands of military families with free lawn care and landscape services across the entire country. GreenCare for Troops is underwritten by Cub Cadet. Many GreenCare for Troops volunteers also participate in the sister program SnowCare for Troops underwritten by BOSS Snowplow.
Project EverGreen was one of more than 300 organizations to enter the Joining Forces recognition contest. The contest was narrowed down to 20 winners and a public comment period was opened to garner votes. The People’s Choice Winner was Our Family for Families First Foundation. The top five winners were: Armed Forces Service Center, Defending the Blue Line, Give an Hour, Project Sanctuary and the City of Richfield, Utah. GreenCare for Troops finished in the top ten. Thank you to all of our green industry supporters who took the time to vote daily in the online campaign. The top 20 finalists were invited to the White House to attend a special program. Among the speakers were Tom Brokaw, NBC News special 50
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There is still a need for volunteers as currently more than 10,000 military families have signed up to receive services from GreenCare for Troops. More than 4,000 volunteers are registered to provide services, but more volunteers, labor and materials are needed. If you or anyone you know is interested in learning more about becoming a volunteer or donating to the programs, visit www.projectevergreen.com/gcft . Project EverGreen’s GreenCare for Troops program was recognized April 11 by the White House and First Lady Michelle Obama in a ceremony on the south lawn. Project EverGreen • New Prague, MN 56071 • 877-758-4835 •
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News – First Lady Michelle Obama Feature Beautiful Gardens New Plant Introduction, VT Spirit Daylily [Excerpt from Mrs. Obama’s address to the Virginia Tech graduating class of 2012.] MRS. OBAMA: “Thank you all. Thank you so much. Well, hello, Hokies! (Applause.) I like saying that. It is such a pleasure and an honor to be here today to celebrate the Virginia Tech class of 2012. Way to go. Way to go. In fact, I feel like all of you have so much to teach all of us. And that’s really what I want to talk about today. I want to talk about the lessons that all of us in this country can learn from this university. I want to talk about what we can learn from the community you’ve built, from the service you’ve performed, and from the future that you all are inventing together. And I want to start with the lesson that you all have taught us about the power of community. As you all know and was mentioned earlier, the very first student at this university walked 26 miles just to enroll here. Now, to normal people that might seem a little excessive, but to anyone who knows anything about Hokie pride, it's that level of enthusiasm that's pretty much par for the course here, right? Whether you’re walking around campus decked out in your maroon and orange or cheering your hearts out to the opening beats of "Enter Sandman," few can match the school spirit on display here at Virginia Tech. I even hear that you’ve bred your own variety of flower -- a maroon and orange daylily known as the Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
“VT Spirit.” And during your first days at this school you learned that when someone asks you “What is a Hokie?” -- what’s your answer? AUDIENCE: I am! MRS. OBAMA: What is a Hokie? AUDIENCE: I am!
News - NanoQuantics Earns USDA Certified Biobased Product Label
or marine materials. The USDA Certified Biobased Product Label verifies that the product's amount of renewable biobased ingredients meets or exceeds prescribed USDA standards.
Soil Sentinel Verified to Contain 97% of Renewable Biobased Ingredients
"NanoQuantics' organic solution can increase crop production and decrease operating costs while greatly reducing an operations' carbon footprint," said Tim Hopkins, Vice President and Chief Technology Officer. "Having this label present on our packaging will help customers more quickly identify us as providing an allnatural, sustainable solution."
MRS. OBAMA: And when someone says “Let’s go,” you answer -AUDIENCE: Hokies! MRS. OBAMA: They told me you’d do that. (Laughter.) That's very cool. And whether you’re celebrating your triumphs or coming together in times of tragedy, what is clear is that you all didn’t just choose to attend a school, you chose to be part of a community. And that feeling of belonging, those connections to your classmates and professors, I know for so many of you that’s what has made your time here so special.
Wise, Virginia (July 10, 2012) — NanoQuantics, Inc., an advanced materials company, has completed voluntary biobased product certification and earned the USDA Certified Biobased Product Label for its Soil Sentinel® product. Biobased products are goods composed in whole or in significant part of agricultural, forestry,
Soil Sentinel soil amendment also qualifies for the BioPreferred Federal Purchasing program for U.S. government agencies and contractors. These are products within categories that the USDA has designated for Federal Procurement Preference. Products within these categories are afforded preference by Federal agencies and their contractors when mak-
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ing purchasing decisions.
Tips - First Mobile App for Landscape and Nursery Professionals
Independent labs verify all biobasedcontent claims and the USDA monitors those claims. That means the consumer can feel secure in the accuracy of the biobased content and be empowered by making better informed purchasing decisions. The USDA Certified Biobased Product label verifies that NanoQuantics' Soil Sentinel contains (97%) of renewable biobased ingredients. "The USDA BioPreferred program has received more than 1,100 applications through the voluntary labeling initiative, and has certified more than 700 products to date. We expect to see these numbers grow as more consumers look for the USDA Certified Biobased Product Label when purchasing more renewable biobased goods," said Kate Lewis, USDA BioPreferred program deputy manager. "Biobased products provide opportunities to help add value to renewable agricultural commodities create jobs in rural communities and help reduce our Nation's dependence on oil. We are pleased that NanoQuantics is joining in those efforts." The label is on NanoQuantics' certified products and available for consumers today. Each label is customized to show the product's biobased amount so consumers can be assured of the accuracy of the content.
Developed by a Team of Plant and Pest Experts from Seven Major Universities
Untreated area
Treated area For more information about NanoQuantics and its solutions, see its web site at www.nanoquantics.com
Product Field Tests Clover is a nitrogen-generating plant and fixes it in the soil. Wineries often plant clover as a cover crop between the vine rows to ensure flavor enhancement. The clover crop also provides erosion and dust control. NanoQuantics' did a demonstration on an area of the vineyard cover crops to see if SOIL SENTINEL would help to produce a healthier clover crop in a less time. The photos here show the results after 10 and 30 days.
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KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Green Industry professionals often find themselves in the field needing immediate access to pest and plant disease information and plant care recommendations. Or, they need to be alerted when destructive pests emerge in
their area. Thanks to a collaborative effort of horticulturists, entomologists and plant pathologists at seven landgrant universities, now there's an app for that. The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture together with Clemson, North Carolina State University, University of Georgia, University of Kentucky, University of Maryland and Virginia Polytechnic Institute have developed the first Integrated Pest Management mobile app for nursery growers, landscapers, arborists, Extension agents and students that includes the major horticultural practices and disease and insect recommendations. IPMPro will streamline pest management decision-making, employee training, and will make complying with state pesticide recordkeeping
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regulations easy. The mobile app is available for iPhone, iPad, and Android.
IPMPro is like having an expert in the field with the user to:
Built by horticulture and pest management experts in cooperation with growers and landscapers, IPMPro was built for USDA Plant Hardiness Zones four through eight, which include 22 states from west of the Mississippi River, east and north to Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and south to the Gulf Coast.
Receive text-like alerts for timesensitive pest issues and plant care - alert date adjusted to location
Consult images, pest lifecycle, and management options for major pests of woody plants
Reference how-to information and images of cultural practices
Obtain pesticide recommendations for major diseases and insects
Utilize built-in pesticide recordkeeping for documentation while outdoors
Track pests and cultural practices in calendar view or a chronological list
Assist in educating new employees and experienced professionals
“Nursery and landscape professionals conduct business on the go; they truly have a mobile office – often their truck,” explained Amy Fulcher, lead developer and University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture plant scientist. “IPMPro dramatically simplifies dayto-day plant care and pest control decision-making in the field. It provides a library of information in the convenience of an app, and features real-time alerts to help professionals stay on top of emerging pests and timely plant care.”
John Watson, with Common Grounds Landscape Management in Knoxville, Tennessee, got an early introduction to the IPM app. “My first thought was, ‘Where have you been?’ Most of the time we get so busy putting out fires we forget that the best thing we could do is prevent fires,” he explained. “This is just the kind of thing the industry needs. Now we have the best opportunity to head off pest issues that can wreak havoc for nursery and landscape professionals and for homeowners.” This is the first application of its kind developed in the United States, and it
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was made possible through funding by the UT Institute of Agriculture through its Extension and AgResearch units and in cooperation with the University of Tennessee Research Foundation. For less than a subscription for non-interactive tools like books and magazines that professionals currently use, IPMPro is $24.99 and is available through Apple and Android marketplaces. For more information on the application, visit http://www.IPMProApp.com.
liance Group in Richmond and served as the Executive Director for the Virginia Grain Producers Association and Virginia Wine Council.
Coming soon for homeowners IPMLite The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture provides instruction, research and public service through the UT College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, the UT College of Veterinary Medicine, UT AgResearch, including its system of 10 research and education centers, and UT Extension offices in every county in the state. Members of the development included from Virginia– Dr. Jeff Derr, VA Tech HRAREC, jderr@vt.edu ; (757) 363-3912 For more information visit
http://www.IPMProApp.com
News - Leadership Torch is Passed at Virginia Agribusiness Council Richmond, VA – G. Eric Holter, Chairman of the Virginia Agribusiness Council, has formally announced that Katie K. Frazier has been named President of the Virginia Agribusiness Council, effective July 1, 2012. Current President Donna Pugh Johnson will retire from the Council at the end of June after an accomplished 18year career with the organization. Frazier, a graduate of Virginia Tech, has spent her career representing the interests of agriculture and forestry. After working for the Council from 2004-2011, Katie worked for the Al54
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She returned to the Agribusiness Council in May 2012 to transition to her new position as President. “Katie brings a wealth of experience with her to this position after working with the Council for seven years as V ice President of Government Affairs, representing our membership and industry to state and federal officials,” noted Holter. “Her strong leadership skills, know ledge of the agribusiness industry, and passion for the Council and our members will enable our organization to continue building upon our success as we collectively address legislative and regulatory challenges and opportunities in the future.” Chairman of the Board Eric Holter stated, “I want to thank Donna for her steadfast commitment and work representing the Virginia Agribusiness Council throughout the years. She has performed a great service for the Board, staff, members, and the agribusiness community. She has been the "face of the Virginia Agribusiness Council" with strong representation in Richmond and throughout the Commonwealth. Her efforts have made it easy for us as a Board to make this transition.”
Credit System. Reflecting on her career with the Council, Johnson commented, “It has been an extreme pleasure to work with our agribusiness community to represent their interests with our elected officials in Richmond and Washington, D.C. With the support and guidance of our Board of Directors, I have endeavored to advance the Council's mission and ensure it is a well-respected and effective organization. Together we have achieved much on behalf of our agribusiness industry which will no doubt continue under Katie’s capable leadership.” Frazier commented, “The Virginia Agribusiness Council is a tremendous organization that effectively and decisively represents the interests of agriculture, forestry, and agribusiness in the Commonwealth. Donna Johnson’s accomplishments on behalf of the Council have been tremendous, and it has been an honor and privilege to work with her.” Frazier went on to conclude, “I am committed to the Council and the agribusinesses, landowners, and farms we represent. I am excited to have the opportunity to serve the Council and industry alike.” The Virginia Agribusiness Council represents agricultural and forestry producers, suppliers, marketers, processors and commodity associations in the Commonwealth with a unified voice through its government affairs activities. The Council has a combined membership of over 40,000. For more information on the Virginia Agribusiness Council, visit www.vaagribusiness.org . Virginia Agribusiness Council, Contact: Katie K. Frazier, (804) 643-3555 (katie.agribusiness@att.net)
Johnson’s career with the Virginia Agribusiness Council began in 1994 after eighteen years with the Farm July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
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VNLA - Board Meeting 6/9/12 Norris Hall, Hall, VA VA Tech, Tech, Norris Blacksburg, VA Mission Statement: Statement: To To enhance enhance and and Mission promote Virginia’s Virginia’s nursery nursery and and promote landscape industry industry landscape Vision Statement: To be be the the leader leader Vision Statement: To and resource for the Virginia nurseand resource for the Virginia nursery and landscape industry ry and landscape industry Meeting Call Call to to Order Order by by Steve Steve Meeting Grigg, Pres.at Pres.at 9:08 Grigg, 9:08 a.m. a.m. with with the the folfollowing present: Matt Sawyer, Matt lowing present: Matt Sawyer, Matt Shreckhise, Roger Roger Harris, Harris, Jeff Jeff Miller, Miller, Shreckhise, Jim Owen, Sonya Westervelt, Tom Jim Owen, Sonya Westervelt, Tom Thompson, Virginia Virginia Rockwell, Rockwell, Mike Mike Thompson, Hildebrand, Dawn Dawn Lerch Lerch and and Bill Bill Hildebrand, Gouldin (Absent: (Absent: Cheryl Cheryl Lajoie, Lajoie, John John Gouldin Barbieri, Mark Mark Maslow) Maslow) Barbieri, VNLA Dashboard Dashboard Metrics Metrics VNLA Current Membership 654 654 Membership 1 year ago Peak Membership Membership NOT Renewed 176 176 Current VCH Count VCH Count 1 Year ago
Total Income YTD Apr’12 Year Budget Total Income YTD Apr’11 Total Expenses YTD Budget Apr’12 Budget Year Year Total Total Expenses Expenses YTD YTD Apr’11
105,218 105,218 399,310 399,310 103,603 103,603 139,087 139,087 393,250 393,250 100,757 100,757
(Above (Above income/expenses income/expenses does does not not include include the extra $20,000 from MANTS, it will will the extra $20,000 from MANTS, so so it compare to 2011 income/expenses) compare to 2011 income/expenses) We We do do not not have have YTD YTD membership membership and and VCH VCH counts counts from from previous previous years years by by month, only annual totals in the past.
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month, only annual in the past. Dave Close, Mastertotals Gardener ProDave Close, Master Gardener Program Coordinator – Jeff introduced gram Close Coordinator Dave and did –a Jeff briefintroduced review of Dave Close and did a brief review of discussion over the last couple of discussion over the last couple of years on converting the Master Garyears on converting the Master Gardener Manual to an electronic format deneroptions Manualtotomake an electronic format and it available to and options to make it available to VNLA members online and still proVNLA members online and still provide a revenue stream for the VNLA videthe a revenue streamDave for the VNLA and MG Program. presented and the MG Program. Dave presented a short video on the Master Gardener a short video the Master Program. He on is also taking Gardener on addiProgram. He is also additional responsibilities taking on Julyon 1 worktional responsibilities on July 1 working with 4-H and FFA groups. He has ing with 4-H and FFA groups. He has been researching the best procedure been researching theManual best procedure to convert the MG to electo convert the MG Manual to electronic format and is now working tronic format and is now working with a program that is compatible with Apple a program that iPads, is compatible with computers, etc. with Apple computers, iPads, etc. Secretary’s Report – Matt ShreckSecretary’s Report – Matt Shreckhise: a motion was made to approve hise: a motion was made to approve the minutes of the February 29, 2012 the minutes of Meeting the February 29, 2012 VNLA Board as emailed to VNLA Board Meeting as emailed to the board, seconded and passed. the board, seconded and passed. Treasurer’s Report – Matt ShreckTreasurer’s Shreckhise reviewedReport copies –ofMatt the Balance hise reviewed copies of the Balance sheet and P&L as of 4/30/12 and Jeff sheet and P&L as of 4/30/12 and Jeff explained the journal entry discrepanexplained the journal entry discrepancy of the transfer of funds to the cy of Day the fund, transfer of funds to will the Rainy which the CPA Rainy Day fund, which the CPA will correct. A motion was made to apcorrect.theAfinancial motion reports was made to approve as presentprove the financial reports as presented, seconded, and passed. ed, seconded, and passed. President’s Update – Steve Grigg President’s – members Steve Grigg requested thatUpdate all board rerequested that all board members review and update their officer/director viewdescriptions and updateby their job the officer/director October meetjob descriptions by the Octoberatmeeting for a block discussion that ing for a block discussion at that time. time. Executive Director Evaluation and ExecutiveRenewal DirectorPlanning Evaluation and Contract – Steve Contract Renewal Planning – Steve reported that he, Mark Maslow, Matt reported that he, Mark Maslow,Sonya Matt Sawyer, Matt Shreckhise, Sawyer, Matt Shreckhise, Sonya Westervelt, Dawn Lerch and Mile Westervelt, Dawn Lerch and Mile Hildebrand had summarized the Hildebrand had summarized the board evaluations by six board memboardand evaluations by sixa copy board tomembers had provided Jeff bers and had provided a copy to Jeff Miller. They also updated the execuMiller. They also updated the executive director job description and have tive director description and have requested a job proposal for another 3requested a proposal for another 3year contract from Horticulture Manyear contract from Horticulture agement Associates LLC and Manthey agement LLC to andreview they will meet Associates in the near future July / August / September 2012 2012 July/August/September July/August/September 2012
willproposal. meet in the near future to review the the proposal. VGIC Meeting – Steve Grigg reportVGIC Meeting – Steve Griggthe reported on the planning meeting Vired on the planning meeting the ginia Green Industry Council hadViron ginia 6Green Industry to Council on June in Richmond reviewhad future June 6 in for Richmond to review future direction the VGIC. Many of the direction of forthe theVGIC VGIC.have Many of tied the activities been activities of the VGIC have been tied in with the State Fair, including the in with theGoGreen State Fair, including the consumer Garden Festival consumer GoGreen Garden Festival and these were major revenue streams andthe these wereItmajor revenue streams for VGIC. was the consensus of for the VGIC. It was the consensus of the meeting that the VGIC should be the meeting the for VGIC be the umbrellathat group the should green inthe umbrella for the green industry groupsgroup in Virginia. To that dustry groups in Virginia. To that end, the VGIC felt that it needed to end, the VGIC felt that itrelationship needed to develop an expanded develop expanded relationship with the an VNLA. This motion was with the VNLA. This motionwhich was made at the VGIC meeting made presented at the VGIC meeting Steve to the Board: which “The Steve presented to athemotion Board: VGIC has put forth of “The willVGIC has put forth a motion of willful intent to explore a possible future ful intent to with explore a possible future relationship VNLA.” relationship with VNLA.” The consensus of the VNLA Board The consensus of theshould VNLAin Board was that the VGIC some was that the VGIC should in of some way come under the umbrella the way come the umbrella the VNLA withunder the VNLA being theofface VNLA the and VNLA being face to the with public that thethe VGIC to the be public and that theinvolved VGIC should more legislatively should be that moreaffect legislatively involved in issues all the green inin issues that affect all the green industry groups. dustry groups. A motion was made that “the VNLA A willing motion to wasinvestigate made thatthis “therelationVNLA is is willing to investigate this relationship further and asked the VGIC to ship further and asked theVNLA VGIC on to present a proposal to the present a proposal to the VNLA on how to pull the organizations together how pull the organizations together to betomore effective.” Seconded and to be more effective.” Seconded and passed. passed. Shoosmith Scholarships – Steve Shoosmith – Steve reported thatScholarships there were more and reportedapplicants that therethiswere better yearmore and and anbetter applicants this year and announced the following scholarship nounced the following scholarship awards: awards: 2 scholarships to 2 year Commu• nity 2 scholarships 2 year CommuCollege forto$750 each nity College for $750 each o Alysha Lawless, o Patrick Alysha Henry Lawless, CommuPatrick Henry nity College Community College o Judy Zatsick, Northern o VA JudyCommunity Zatsick, Northern College VA Community College 3 scholarships to 4 yr College for • $1,500 3 scholarships to 4 yr College for each Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter VNLA Newsletter
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Landon Prever, VA Tech o Elizabeth Wilson, VA Tech o Mary Garifo, Christopher Newport University (5-year Environmental Science) Executive Director Update – Jeff Miller Report was emailed prior to the meeting. He reviewed some of the highlights from the NLAE meeting in San Antonio and issues that are facing other states that are similar to ours as well as issues that are on the horizon that will be affecting Virginia. Also included were notes from “Race for Relevance” which as an allday discussion on how associations need to be changing to meet member needs and demographics. The key to success is focusing energy and resources on meeting well-defined member needs and problems, rather than trying to be all things to all people in hopes of maximizing member-
ship and dues income. Website review online: Jeff gave an online review of the new VNLA website and requested input from the board on any aspects of the website, content, location of content, etc. He also reviewed the VNLA’s CapWiz legislative website link http://capwiz.com/anla/va/home/ , which is a partnership with the ANLA, and is an easy way for members to contact state and federal legislators on current issues in just a couple of minutes. Committee Reports: Legislation – Virginia Rockwell reviewed the following issues: Chesapeake Bay and TMDL updates WIP – (Watershed Implementation Plan) public comment period has ended, but there are still areas that need standardization Nutrient Management Planning – nursery production is not included now, but will be in 2017. There is a
need for cost-share programs to implement nutrient management plans River Friendly Yards is working with Conserv and Virginia Rockwell with demonstration landscapes in the Fredericksburg area. Currently, there are not any Bay credits available for the use of trees and shrubs for storm water runoff reduction. Environmental Affairs Tom Thompson attended a congograss and noxious weed regulation meeting where VDACS is review their noxious weed regulations and coordination of legislative issues with invasive plants. LEED Certification Classes – (see attached report) It was the consensus to have member registration at $325 and non-member registration at $395. This will also be promoted to the VSLD, the Home Builders, APLD and the James River Green Building Council. Certification – (see attached report)
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Public Relations – (see attached report) Sonya and Jeff discussed the DCR “Plant More Plants” program and the possibility of adding the licensing of the “Plant Something” program which has been adopted by 8-10 states and was funded by USDA Specialty Crop Grants in Arizona, but has been setup to be customizable for any state. No action was taken. This will be submitted to the budget committee in the fall. Field Day and Summer Tour: Sonya gave credit to Annmari Ingersoll for all the planning for the 2011 Field Day and Summer Tour at Ingleside Plantation Nurseries. Sonya Westervelt and Virginia Rockwell reviews plans for field day and working on final details. The brochure is at the printer for final layout. Virginia noted that the host site should help solicit vendors/sponsors. MANTS Update – Doug Hensel (absent) Research – Matt Sawyer brought up the question if it is worthwhile to continue the research auction/gala, considering the time investment and diminishing returns for the last several years, which the economy has had a big impact on the net revenue. He asked for suggestions for alternative plans, locations, ideas. They are tentatively considering having the 2013 event at Phillips Restaurant at HarborPlace. Beautiful Gardens – attached is a written report from Lisa Lipsey, Beautiful Gardens program coordinator at Virginia Tech. CRITICAL ACTION ITEMS (based on strategic plan) 1a. Discussion of Boxwood Blight Research and Funding Update – Jeff will contact researchers about submitting any funding requests before the VNLA October Budget Meeting. 1b. Field Day 2012 –Salem Home Show – Sonya reported that the event went well with co58
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sponsoring the event and getting VNLA members to help staff the booth. For future events like this the VNLA should have more informational brochures/signs available. 1c. Arbor Day – There was not an Arbor Day tree planting at the Capitol this year. 2. Enhance certification program – Cheryl Lajoie (absent) see attached notes on things the certification committee is doing and is considering. a. Online reviews b. CEU verification online c. Standardized testing format across professional organizations d. Certification Manual revisions/online 3. Identify VNLA Legislative Priorities and Agendas – Virginia Rockwell, Matt Shreckhise, Steve Grigg a. Identify areas of concern for membership – still to be determined b. Proactively educate legislators on the size/impact of green industry – still to be determined c. Solicit VAC for aide in legislative issues - ongoing d. Network with our legislators 4. Public Relations and Communications – Mark Maslow, Sonya Westervelt, Jeff Miller a. Streamline Newsletter publications quantities and layout – still to be determined b. Reduce e-blasts and re format to be easier to read – changes have been made c. Increase participation in the grower’s guide and enhance the publication – it was suggested to have a code listing for native plants, other changes still to be determined July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
TASK LIST FOR NEXT MEETING 1. Review officer and board job descriptions 2. Follow up on the critical action items listed above Adjournment: Being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 3:23 p.m. Respectively submitted, Jeff Miller Exec. Dir.
UPCOMING VNLA EVENTS VNLA Field Day/Summer Tour, August 8-9, 2012, Battlefield Farms, Orange, VA MANTS Board Meeting – September 30 – October 2 Fall Budget Meeting TBA in October Fall Board Meeting TBA in October
Tips – Employee or Independent Contractor? Are you in Compliance? Fact Sheet #13: Employment Relationship Under the Fair Labor Standards Act Characteristics An employment relationship under the FLSA must be distinguished from a strictly contractual one. Such a relationship must exist for any provision of the FLSA to apply to any person engaged in work which may otherwise be subject to the Act. In the application of the FLSA an employee, as distinguished from a person who is engaged in a business of his or her own, is one who, as a matter of economic reality, follows the usual path of an employee and is dependent on the business which he or she serves. The employer-employee relationship under the FLSA is tested by "economic reality" rather than "technical concepts." It is not determined by the common law standards relating to master and servant. Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
The U.S. Supreme Court has on a number of occasions indicated that there is no single rule or test for determining whether an individual is an independent contractor or an employee for purposes of the FLSA. The Court has held that it is the total activity or situation which controls. Among the factors which the Court has considered significant are: 1. The extent to which the services rendered are an integral part of the principal's business. 2. The permanency of the relationship. 3. The amount of the alleged contractor's investment in facilities and equipment. 4. The nature and degree of control by the principal. 5. The alleged contractor's opportunities for profit and loss. 6. The amount of initiative, judgment, or foresight in open market competition with others required for the success of the claimed independent contractor.
7. The degree of independent business organization and operation. There are certain factors which are immaterial in determining whether there is an employment relationship. Such facts as the place where work is performed, the absence of a formal employment agreement, or whether an alleged independent contractor is licensed by State/local government are not considered to have a bearing on determinations as to whether there is an employment relationship. Additionally, the Supreme Court has held that the time or mode of pay does not control the determination of employee status. Requirements When it has been determined that an employer-employee relationship does exist, and the employee is engaged in work that is subject to the Act, it is required that the employee be paid at least the Federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour effective July 24, 2009, and in most cases overtime at
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time and one-half his/her regular rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 per week. The Act also has youth employment provisions regulate the employment of minors under the age of eighteen, as well as recordkeeping, requirements. Typical Problems 1. One of the most common problems is in the construction industry where contractors hire socalled independent contractors, who in reality should be considered employees because they do not meet the tests for independence, as stated above. 2. Franchise arrangements can pose problems in this area as well. Depending on the level of control the franchisor has over the franchisee, employees of the latter may be considered to be employed by the franchisor. 3. A situation involving a person volunteering his or her services for another may also result in an
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employment relationship. For example, a person who is an employee cannot "volunteer" his/her services to the employer to perform the same type service performed as an employee. Of course, individuals may volunteer or donate their services to religious, public service, and nonprofit organizations, without contemplation of pay, and not be considered employees of such organization. 4. Trainees or students may also be employees, depending on the circumstances of their activities for the employer. 5. People who perform work at their own home are often improperly considered as independent contractors. The Act covers such homeworkers as employees and they are entitled to all benefits of the law. This publication is for general information and is not to be considered in the same light as official statements of position contained in the regulations. For additional information, visit our Wage and Hour Division Website: http://www.wagehour.dol.gov and/or call our toll-free information and helpline, available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in your time zone, 1-866- 4USWAGE (1-866487-9243).
Tips - Greenhouse Construction Safety: Fall Protection
The purpose of this article, concerning Greenhouse Construction Safety, is to inform the reader of the Risks for fall in Plastic Roof Covering and the challenges we have experienced with designing the right Fall Protection Program. By sharing our experience, we hope to draw awareness to the risk of falling with plastic covering in the Greenhouse Industry. We also hope that our colleagues in the Greenhouse Industry understand the 60
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urgency of adopting a Fall Protection Program.
Introduction During the fall of 2011, Battlefield Farms, Inc was constructing a new greenhouse, when we experienced a disabling accident. One of our employees was covering the roof with plastic along with a team of other workers. He lost his balance and fell from the greenhouse roof to the concrete floor 15 feet below. Fortunately the employee did not perish but his life will be changed forever. The impact of the fall caused severe and irreversible spinal cord injuries that left him a paraplegic. Had the roofing crew been equipped with the proper fall protection equipment, this accident may have been prevented.
History For 40 years of the owner’s experience in the greenhouse industry, a fall of this nature had never occurred and they did not know of anyone in the industry using fall protection equipment. We were in anguish that an accident of this magnitude would happen and desperate to prevent it from occurring again.
Research We did not realize how frequent injuries from falls occur at the workplace. After some internet research on OSHA’s website, we soon discovered that “falls are among the most common causes of serious work related injuries and deaths,” (1). It is also important to note that the top “fatal four” of the leading causes of worker deaths on construction sites included falls, and the OSHA website reads that “falls accounted for 260 out of 751 total deaths in construction in CY 2010,”(2). Our Virginia OSHA inspector clarified to us that the OSHA standards change depending on the job the employee is doing. If the task is considered construction, even if he is an agricultural worker, he must abide by the 1926 Construction InJuly / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
dustry Standards. According to the 1926 Construction guidelines, a worker must have fall protection at a height off the ground of 6 ft. There are many types of fall protection to choose from: safety nets, horizontal and vertical lifelines, and fall arrest systems. The structure that the fall protection equipment is anchored to is the limiting factor because it has to withstand the force of the falling person. Developing a Fall Protection Program With the guidance from our Risk Control Consultants of BB&T Insurance we were able to develop a Fall Protection program including hazard recognition, training, and enforcement. Our Department Supervisors completed an OSHA 10 hour course and our greenhouse workers received training on Fall Protection and Fall Arrest Systems. Fall Protection Equipment designed to attach to the weak greenhouse framework proved to be a little more difficult to come across. Working with the engineers that designed our structure we were able to implement a safety net system compliant with OSHA guidelines. This netting system involved 1500 ft of galvanized aircraft cable, 12 Safety Nets that were 12 x 50 ft, 250 Nylon Loop Runners, and some miscellaneous hardware. Workers used scissor lifts to install the cables parallel to the steel beams that ran the length of the greenhouse and the nets were fastened to them. After passing the drop test with a 500 lb bag of sand the workers could safely resume covering the greenhouse roof. (Pictures on page 3)
Future Complications and Resolutions The Safety Net system worked in an empty greenhouse but it occurred to us that the watering booms, shade cloth, and miscellaneous wires in a finished greenhouse would interfere with this type of fall protection. Every four years the plastic roofs would Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
need to be replaced and we would have to develop a different fall protection system. Working with our engineers from our greenhouse design company, we came up with a horizontal lifeline that will be permanently installed in our gutters. The actual gutter cannot be the anchor point because it is made from aluminum but the cable can be fastened at either end to the steel framework. Employees that will be reinstalling the plastic roofing in our greenhouse must wear a fall arrest system that anchors into this cable in the gutter.
vices that trees provide.
Lift and safety nets
Conclusion After the fall we have learned so much about our role in protecting our employees from occupational hazards. We now know what steps to take to develop a successful fall protection plan. This accident has cultivated our awareness and we have made a significant investment in training, equipment and implementation. We are dedicated to providing a safe work environment and want to share our experience in hopes that we can prevent similar events from occurring in our industry. By Julie Brooks
Fall Arrest System Anchored in the Gutter:
Citations http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/fallprotec tion/index.html http://www.osha.gov/oshstats/commo nstats.html Sara Hoover, Safety Consultant – VOSH, Department of Labor and Industry, 10515 Battleview Parkway, Manassas, VA 20109; P: (703) 392-0900 EXT. 105; F: (703) 392-0308; sara.hoover@doli.virginia.gov
Tips – National Tree Calculator
Images of Safety Nets
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i-Tree is a state-of-theart, peer-reviewed software suite from the USDA Forest Service that provides urban forestry analysis and benefits assessment tools. The iTree Tools help communities of all sizes to strengthen their urban forest management and advocacy efforts by quantifying the structure of community trees and the environmental serJuly / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
Since the initial release of the i-Tree Tools in August 2006, numerous communities, non-profit organizations, consultants, volunteers and students have used i-Tree to report on individual trees, parcels, neighborhoods, cities, and even entire states. By understanding the local, tangible ecosystem services that trees provide, i-Tree users can link urban forest management activities with environmental quality and community livability. Whether your interest is a single tree or an entire forest, i-Tree provides baseline data that you can use to demonstrate value and set priorities for more effective decisionmaking. i-Tree Tools are in the public domain and are freely accessible. We invite you to explore this site to learn more about how i-Tree can make a difference in your community. National Tree Benefit Calculator The Tree Benefit Calculator allows anyone to make a simple estimation of the benefits individual street-side trees provide. This tool is based on iTrees street tree assessment tool called STREETS. With inputs of location, species and tree size, users will get an understanding of the environmental and economic value trees provide on an annual basis. The Tree Benefit Calculator is intended to be simple and accessible. As such, this tool should be considered a starting point for understanding trees' value in the community, rather than a scientific accounting of precise values. For more detailed information on urban and community forest assessments, visit the i-Tree website. http://www.itreetools.org/index.php
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Virginia TURFGRASS
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Tips - If You Think the Outdoor Patio Season Is Over, Think Again
Instead of packing up the patio furniture and putting it away in the shed, tying down the barbeque grill, hanging up the barbeque apron, and saying good-bye to the many facets of backyard family activities, outdoor living aficionados are stretching the creature comforts of the summer season thanks to the wide range of products that are readily available in the marketplace. With the advent of the out-
door room came a spectrum of amenities ranging from elaborate open-air kitchens, pizza ovens, outdoor fireplaces, professional-quality refreshment bars, pergolas and covered pavilions to simple but rewarding multiuse fire pits. As a result, families and friends will be dashing in and out the back door well into the winter. One factor that can easily raise the budget for a three or four season patio is the cost connected with installation, especially where quality, as it should be, is of paramount importance. Manufacturers in the concrete pavingstone and wall systems industry have a solution. Depending on the manufacturer, you can find most of the most wanted patio enhancements within their portfolios either to be custom built using their hardscape products or complete and ready to install using pre-packaged kits. The kits enable do-it-yourselfers, landscape designers and professional contractors to cost-effectively address
current trends in outdoor living and to turn homeowner “wish lists” into reality even within budget constraints.
For example, the simplest of fall festivities can be gathering around a wood burning fire pit roasting marshmallows, cooking frankfurters on a stick and singing songs. Prepackaged, kits with exact amounts of wallstones are available and like the ones available from Cambridge — manufacturers of Cambridge Pavingstones with ArmorTec®, Cambridge Wallstones and a full line of outdoor living products made of these hardscape materials. The pits, round or
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Founded over a century ago, Sherman Nursery continues to offer the finest selection of
square in coordinated colors and styles, have metal inserts, dual cantilevered grills and optional fire spark screens and galvanized steel covers. With these features, fireside menus can range from hot dogs and burgers to lobsters, chicken pieces, steaks and more. For fireside chats on a grander level, consider nesting a wood-burning, outdoor fireplace as the focal point in your patio or outdoor room. You can find models in pre-cut, pre-packaged kits as well with decorator inspired, elegant features such as cast stone surrounds and ornamental pieces, polished granite accent tiles, stainless steel pull screens and optional firewood boxes — features that rival those found on interior models. in addition to air-cooled chimneys and termination caps.
Decorator-Inspired Features & Professional-Style Inclusions For Cooking The patio appointments have changed further as freestanding barbeque grills gave way to built-in, multi-purpose cooking stations constructed primarily of manufactured wallstones, which are available in various natural colors and rock face textures. Configurations and sizes can vary but are commonly rectangular or L-shaped so that they can be positioned in the most utilitarian position in the overall patio design, noting that the kitchen — whether indoors or outdoors — is usually the focal point of activity with family and friends. “For example, Cambridge open-air kitchen kits, which are pre-packaged and do not require any cutting of materials, are complete with a stainless steel appliance package that includes a sink, refrigerator and a lighted, 5burner, 38-inch wide grill, and cabinet door is at the forefront of our company’s outdoor living product group,” says Cambridge Chairman/CEO Charles H. Gamarekian. “There is nothing else to buy.” The 64
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kits’ rotisserie, built in thermometer and convenient warming rack allow cooking choices to include whole chickens and roasted meats. The food preparation and serving areas are decorator-inspired, polished granite countertops, which are offered in Black Uba Tuba and Venetian Gold. Artisan-style pizza, roasted vegetables and hot homemade bread are always in season. So, for all-season cooking enthusiasts, an outdoor pizza oven may be the perfect addition to the footprint of a well-appointed patio kitchen. It is also reassuring that from the European-inspired, domed hearth to the professional-quality cooking tools, responsible pizza oven manufacturers such as Cambridge respect the integrity of the age-old cooking process as well.
A Pergola or Pavilion Can Define Space While Adding Protection
No backyard gathering spot is truly up-to-date without an open-air pergola or pavilion for outdoor dining, relaxing and entertaining. The popularity of these visually pleasing and functional structures is broadening in keeping with defining the features of the ideal outdoor setting by today’s standards. Landscape designers and contractors who recognize the magnitude of this burgeoning trend, are doing their homework and are prepared to meet the challenges with the help of, believe it or not, equally savvy hardscape material manufacturers. Before going any further, let’s clarify the differences between the two terminologies. A pergola is typically a July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
garden structure that consists of pillars that support a partially open roof structure, such as latticework or a trellis. The construction, which can vary in size and style, is somewhat similar to an arbor and is often covered in vines or plants. Pergolas are sometimes used as a transition from indoor living space to the outdoors, and commonly cover walkways or paths. Many times, they are built over a patio or seating area to provide limited shade from hot sun. Other varieties may have a type of additional sunshade for greater protection. In contrast, a patio pavilion has open sides but a closed roof for added protection against the elements. A pavilion, which is usually associated with a large outdoor covered edifice in parks, spacious public spaces, and vacation resorts, also refers to a freestanding structure sited a short distance from a home to create an architecturally defined space for a host of residential activities. Support columns (pillars) for pergolas and pavilions can be anchored into the pavement or set on columns (pedestals) a few feet above ground level. The structures themselves can be custom built or assembled from a kit. If getting involved with building these kinds of structures seems to be a bit daunting, Cambridge, although it may come as a surprise, offers both pergolas and pavilions in prepackaged kits. Another advantage here is that the structures are intended to be set on any of the company’s wallstone columns (sold separately). For added convenience, a prepackaged column kit in a variety of color options, that requires no cutting, is also made by Cambridge. Other than providing a sturdy and durable pedestal base, the columns make it easy to blend in Cambridge pavers, wall systems, additional columns and other outdoor living kits containing Cambridge Wallstones. Ask a professional contractor for more information or visit cambridgepavers.com. Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
As modern-day lifestyles are changing, we see entire households moving much of their day-to-day activities out-of-doors while at the same time, redefining the backyard patio, as we once knew it. The open-air patio room, covered or not, are now complete with lavish cooking, entertaining and leisure-time conveniences that everyone can enjoy season after season. Contact: Charles H. Gamarekian, Chairman / CEO, Cambridge Pavers Inc, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071, Ph 201.933.5000, Fx 201.933.5532, cgamarekian@cambridgepavers.com
Tips - Ideas for Using Technology
Phytophthora directly in the field.
Rapidly Diagnose Plant Pathogens in Nurseries Ornamental nursery managers are in a state of continuous scouting during the growing season. When the beginning signs or symptoms of a pest or disease are observed, diagnosing the cause is the first step in successfully responding to and solving the problem. This article presents two practical, simple and economical ways your nursery can employ technology to help with the rapid diagnosis of plant disease issues.
Phytophthora Immunostrips Since this June Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) nursery inspectors are equipped with “test strips” which able to detect damaging root rot and foliar blight pathogens in the genus
Positive immunostrip test for Phytophthora, two lines means you have a positive
These test strips, also known as Immunostrips, give results within 10 minutes. Once Phytophthora has been detected in the field, laboratory work is still required to determine which species of Phytophthora is present as some species such as P. ramorum are not established in Virginia forests or nurseries and pose a potential economic and ecological threat if introduced. VDACS has a limited supply
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of Phytophthora Immunostrips available for nurseries to try out for the early detection of Phytophthora in nursery stock. To request a free sample of 25 test strips please email norman.dart@vdacs.virginia.gov. The only requirement is to agree to use the test strips and report back results to your local nursery inspector. They are available while supplies last.
Tips on taking digital photos for plant diagnostics
Digital Photography
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Camera requirements. Digital cameras have become more userfriendly and affordable in recent years and mobile devices, especially smart phones, are commonly equipped with high quality digital cameras. Most digital cameras in use today are capable of taking quality images to assist in making an initial diagnostic assessment.
Capture images of the field. Take photos of the field that show the distribution of symptomatic plants. If there are pockets of symptomatic plants (dieback, wilt, etc), step back and take a photo that shows the distribution of these patches.
Capture images of individual plants. Photograph several individual plants that show the range and distribution of symptoms present. For example, if leaf spots are present capture the distribution of the spotting at the plant scale. Plants that are wilted, stunted or are showing marginal leaf necrosis are often suffering from a root ailment; in these instances it is helpful to pull some plants from the soil and capture a high quality photo of the plant that includes the root system.
Taking a picture with a smart phone or digital camera makes sharing problems of disease issues in the field easier than ever
Taking photos of an unknown problem observed in the field to share with your local nursery inspector by email has the potential to save precious time during the growing season. Using digital photography to aid with plant diagnostics can be useful but there are limitations. Insect pests are often identified by high quality digital images while plant diseases caused by fungi, bacteria or viruses frequently require laboratory tests to be verified. Sending a digital photograph of a potential problem by email to your nursery inspector may result in one of the following outcomes: (1) a tentative diagnosis from the VDACS Plant Pathology Lab (2) a follow up to coordinate a site visit to collect a sample, (3) instructions for physical sample submission to the VDACS Plant Pathology Lab (4) any combination of the above based on the specific situation. Site visits and submitting physical samples remains the preferred and most effective method to evaluate pest and disease issues in nurseries. Digital photography is
the feeding damage (symptoms) and of any insects associated with the feeding (signs), if present. Include size reference such as a ruler or a coin if possible.
simply an additional tool to use in cooperation with your state nursery inspector with the potential to save you time and money.
Capture up close images of signs and symptoms. You should attempt to capture signs and symptoms of the potential issue in your remaining photos. A sign includes the potential cause of a plant problem. Examples of signs include an insect feeding on a plant, fungal growth or fruiting bodies on plant material. For example, if plants have feeding damage, take up-close photos of July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
Up-close view of rose with rose rosette virus. High quality digital pictures can help make accurate field diagnoses for certain diseases.
Use your macro setting for upclose photos. Most digital cameras have a macro setting. This is your camera’s close-up mode. It is represented by a universal icon that looks like a small tulip. While in macro setting you can often position your camera within a few inches of fungal fruiting bodies and insects and still take an in focus photo providing you have a steady hand.
Norman L. Dart, State Plant Pathologist
VNLA – Research Gala/Auction Returns with Skyla Burrell Band The annual Research Foundation Gala/Auction returns to Tir na Nog Irish Pub Restaurant along with the Skyla Burell Band accompanied by VNLA member Jack Campbell on the harmonica. Tickets will be available in the MANTS pre-registration mailings. Limited tickets, so register early! Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
VIRGINIA NURSERYMEN’S HORTICULTURAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION, INC. 383 Coal Hollow Rd, Christiansburg, VA 24073-6721 Phone: 540-382-0943 – 800-476-0055 – Fax: 540-382-2716 – Email: research@vnla.org
Donor Information Form Donor Company: _________________________________________________________________________ Contact Person: __________________________________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________________________________________ City: __________________________ ST: ___ Zip: ____________-__________ Office Phone: (____) _____-____________
Fax: (____) _____-____________
Email: __________________________________________________________________________________ $ ______ Reception/Auction Sponsor $ ______ Direct donation to Research Foundation $ ______ Gift Certificate (list who and where to redeem the certificate, or how to obtain the item, if different from the above contact information) Item Donation and description: _______________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Retail Value: $ ____________________ (approximate) VNLA member accepting donation: __________________________________________ List additional items separately on the back of this sheet The donor did not receive any goods or services from the VNA Horticulture Research Foundation, Inc in return for the above listed contribution(s). The Virginia Nurserymen's Horticultural Research Foundation, Inc is a non-profit (501(c)(3) corporation. Over the course of time that this program has been active, we have funded in excess of $200,000 in original research from donations and income from our $550,000 research endowment. We are an active state association with an on-going fundraising program, which should further enhance our ability to support good research in the years to come. It is the policy of the Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association that no overhead money be taken from funds donated for research projects. It is permissible to deposit these funds into various accounts that have been established for nursery research. The Virginia Nurserymen’s Horticulture Research Foundation, Inc is a 501(c)(3). A financial statement is available upon written request from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Office of Consumer Affairs, PO Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218-1163.
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The VNLA Research Committee at MANTS After Dark Presents
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The 2013 Horticulture Research Gala and Charity Auction Featuring
The Skyla Burrell Blues Band www.skylaburrell.com
Wednesday, January 9, 2013 6:00 - 10:00pm
T铆r Na N贸g Irish Pub (Harborplace, Baltimore)
$70/person (limited to 200 tickets) Order tickets through MANTS pre-registration
A complete Buffet Dinner is included Drinks, Cocktails, Beer & Wine (2 drink tickets, cash bar) Silent Auction (6:00 - 8:30) Stay until they close!
Rockin' in Remembrance of Dr. Bonnie Appleton
professor and researcher at VA Tech HRAREC in Virginia Beach To donate items for the auctions Contact Matt Sawyer at 757-483-1425 Email: Matt@bcnursery.com
VNA Horticulture Research Foundation, Inc. This is the major fund-raiser event for the Foundation. The net proceeds from this event are added to the investment account managed by SunTrust Bank. The income from the investment account is used each year to fund worthy research projects that could benefit the nursery industry.
Research - Boxwood blight update
Currently we have initiated a boxwood variety trial investigating the susceptibility of 31 commercial / experimental Buxus varieties to the fungus that causes boxwood blight. Each block consist of six plants of the same variety, and is replicated 4 times throughout our container pad (Figure 1.). Rather than reinvent the wheel, we are following a protocol developed by Belgian researchers that have been studying this disease for over a decade. Two English boxwood container plants are used as 'vector' or 'spreader' plants in the center of each test variety block (Figure 2.). These ‘vector’ plants help spread the fungus under more natural conditions rather than direct inoculation of the test varieties. With negative and positive control plots in place, this trial required almost 300 English boxwood containers alone, as well as 24 containers of each test variety. These plants were donated by a boxwood producer in VA. This trial is being conducted at my research facility at our new container pad/shade structure we built last month solely for boxwood blight trials under strict sanitary conditions so that the disease does not leave our research site, which is located on over 200 remote acres and far away from any commercial boxwood production. So far, we got very good infection of our spreader plants, considering the inoculation was done last Wednesday (Figure 3.)! We’ve had good weather conditions for boxwood blight infection, and the trial is running as expected. In September we will initiate a second field trial that will investigate 24 different fungicides and their rates for the prevention of boxwood blight. None of this work would have been possible without the financial support of the WV, VA, and NC nursery and landscape associations, as well as the donated plants; in addition, my departVNLA Newsletter
VNLA Newsletter
ment has picked up the stipend and tuition for our graduate student Miranda Ganci that is studying boxwood blight for her Masters degree. As we generate data, we will send out more formal reports. Thank you again!
Figure 1.
Figure 2.
Figure 3. By Kelly Ivors, Associate Professor and Extension Plant Pathologist, North Carolina State University, klivors@ncsu.edu
Here is a link to an educational video on YouTube growers can use to educate their staff on boxwood blight. This video was developed to meet the educational requirement for the "Boxwood Blight Cleanliness Program Compliance Agreement". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C Qm63W-qsJM
Norman L. Dart, State Plant Pathologist July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
Events - SNA Announces 2013 Event Georgia International Convention Center August 5 - 7, 2013 Atlanta, Ga., July 1, 2012 – The Southern Nursery Association (SNA) has announced preliminary plans for an event in 2013. Scheduled for August 5 - 7, 2013, at Atlanta’s Georgia International Convention Center (GICC), this event will combine the SNA Research Conference, the Southern Plant Conference, the SNA State Officer's Conference, and the Annual SNA Business Meeting to deliver one unparalleled event – all under one roof. The GICC, conveniently located adjacent to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and minutes from downtown Atlanta, is Georgia’s newest and second largest convention center featuring more than 400,000 SF of meeting space – all on one level. The ATL SkyTrain, a free light rail train linking the GICC to the airport, the rental car center and the GICC station, as well as a wide array of affordable nearby hotels (including two new Marriott properties on the GICC campus), and restaurants, coupled with excellent transportation connections from across the U.S., will offer participants added convenience. This new regional event will bring together the most forward thinking leaders, researchers, growers, manufacturers, distributors, landscapers and retailers from across the southeast to share ideas, learn new techniques, address key industry issues, and locate new products. Meister Media/Today's Garden Center will be the official media sponsor of the event and will offer an educational program geared specifically to retail garden centers. In addition to the educational and networking opportunities another component of the 69 69
event will provide industry growers and suppliers an opportunity to promote and showcase their products through various levels of sponsorship including a variety of channels of advertising, product presentations and display space. If you are interested in gaining exposure to a regional audience through sponsorship, contact the SNA office at 678.809.9992. More details of SNA 2013 will be released in the weeks to come. For further information, contact the Southern Nursery Association, Inc., PO Box 801454, Acworth, GA 30101, 678.809.9992, mail@sna.org, or visit the SNA Website at www.sna.org.
News - New Specialty License Plate Supporting Community Trees Available for Pre-order
A new specialty license plate is available for pre-order in Virginia. The Virginia Loves Trees license plate features a community skyline enhanced by trees (with one tree even featuring a swing) in eye-catching blues and greens and is designed to raise awareness of the value of community trees in Virginia. Plates can be ordered online, or in the mail using forms downloaded from the Virginia Loves Trees website (www.valovestrees.org ).
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Support VNLA Member Growers! online @ www.vnla.org/ For a print copy, contact the VNLA Office at 800-476-0055
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July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
800-347-4272 www.JohnDeereLandscapes.com
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July / August / September 2012
VNLA Newsletter
VNLA Newsletter Advertising Order Please check the ad size and circle “B&W” or “4-Color” Size
Member Rates B&W 4-Color [__] 1/6 page (2.25" x 4.75") $55 (1/2 col. Vertical) [__] 1/3 page (2.25" x 9.75") $75 (1 col. Vertical) [__] 1/4 page (3.5" x 4.75") $80 [__] 1/2 page (4.75" x 7.5") $130 (Horizontal) $565 [__] 1/2 page (3.5" x 9.75") $185 (Vertical) $665 [__] 2/3 page (4.75" x 9.75") $205 (2 col. Vertical) [__] full page (7.5" x 9.75") $235 $795 [__] Business Card (2" x 3.5") $40 $60 [__] Insert 8”x10.75” single sheet (Call for quote)
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Premium locations: inside front cover, inside back cover - Add 10% to above rates and page on back cover - Add 25% to above rates (call for availability) Please check the issue(s) for your ad (10% discount for 4 pre-paid ads for full-year run) Publication Issue Copy Deadlines [__] January/February/March January 15 [__] April/May/June April 15 [__] July/August/September July 15 [__] October/November/December October 15 [__] Run same ad each issue [__] Rotate Ads [__] New Ad each issue
Mail Date (approximate) February 28 May 30 August 30 November 30
NEW Quarterly Publication Schedule Effective 4/1/2012
[__] Check here if you want an invoice for four pre-paid consecutive issues (10% discount). Otherwise, we will send you an electronic invoice after the issue is mailed to members.
Contact Person: _________________________________________________ Company Name: ________________________________________________ Mailing Address: ________________________________________________ City: _____________________________ ST____ Zipcode _________-_____ Phone: _____-______-____________ Fax: _____-______-____________ Email: _________________________________________________________ Date: ____/____/______ For Additional Information, Call, Fax or Email:
Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association
383 Coal Hollow Road, Christiansburg, VA 24073-6721 800-476-0055 or 540-382-0943 ---- Fax: 540-382-2716 Email: info@vnla.org www.vnla.org
Upcoming Events September 12, 2012, GRIFFIN PENNSYLVANIA GROWER EXPO Lancaster Host Resort Lancaster, PA 866.307.8142 dmuse@griffinmail.com September 14-16, 2012, NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY ANNUAL MEETING Wyndham Virginia Crossings, Richmond www.vnps.org September 21, 2012, WAYNESBORO PLANT HEALTH CARE FOR URBAN TREES WORKSHOP Trees - Fifty Shades of Green & ArborMaster Tree Training Best Western Inn & Conference Center, Waynesboro , VA parksandrec@ci.waynesboro.va.us 540-942-6735 www.treesvirginia.org September 24, 2012, AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR HORTICULTURAL SCIENCE Certified Horticulturist Exam Dmancini@ashs.org www.ashs.org October 1-4, 2012, 8th EASTERN NATIVE GRASS SYMPOSIUM Keynote Speaker: Douglas Tallamy Charlottesville, VA www.cpe.vt.edu/engs/index.html October 1-4, 2012, 8th EASTERN NATIVE GRASS SYMPOSIUM Keynote Speaker: Douglas Tallamy; Charlottesville, VA http://www.cpe.vt.edu/engs/index. html October 10-13, 2012, IPPS - EASTERN REGION CONFERENCE Brandywine Valley, PA at Winterthur & Longwood Gardens www.ippseastern.org ippser@gmail.com October 14-17, 2012, IPPS - Southern Region, 37th Annual Conference, Dixon Conference Center, Auburn, AL www.ipps-srna.org (803)743-4284
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October 24-26, 2012, PLANET GREEN INDUSTRY CONFERENCE Louisville, KY, www.greenindustryconference.org October 25-28, 2012, HOLLY SOCIETY OF AMERICA, COLONIAL VIRGINIA CHAPTER Fall Meeting, Holiday Inn, I-64 West End, Richmond, VA 804-642-2449 margaret.mccomb@att.net November 2-6, 2012, IRRIGATION SHOW AND EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE, Orlando, FL www.irrigation.org info@irrigationshow.org November 8-10, 2012, TCI EXPO 2012 TREE CARE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION Baltimore, MD www.tcia.org December 4-6 , 2012, MAC-ISA ARBORIST CERTIFICATION COURSES Taught by Joe Murray, 24 ISA CEUs and 24 VNLA VCH CEUs Charlottesville, VA www.macisa.org December 11-13, 2012, VIRGINIA TECH TURFGRASS SHORT COURSE sponsored by the Virginia Turfgrass Council at the Fredericksburg Expo and Convention Center www.vaturf.org
2013 January 9-11, 2013, MANTS Baltimore Convention Center Contact: 800-431-0066 info@mants.com www.mants.com January 9, 2013, VNA HORTICULTURE RESEARCH FOUNDATION RESEARCH GALA/AUCTION Order tickets with MANTS registration; for info: 800-476-0055 research@vnla.org July / August / September 2012 July/August/September 2012
January 10, 2013, VNLA ANNUAL BREAKFAST MEETING Sheraton Inner Harbor Hotel Contact: info@vnla.org 800-476-0055 January 10, 2013, VIRGINIA AGRIBUSINESS COUNCIL APPRECIATION BANQUET Arthur Ashe Center, Richmond, VA 804/643-3555 January 14-16, 2013, CENTS Trade Show, Columbus, OH www.onla.org January 17-18, 2013, GREEN & GROWIN' SHOW Greensboro, NC www.ncnla.com January 17-18, 2013, GULF STATES HORTICULTURAL EXPO Mobile, AL www.gshe.org info@gshe.org January 22-23, 2013, NEW JERSEY PLANTS TRADE SHOWwww.njplantshow.com January 25-27, 2013, VIRGINIA FLOWER & GARDEN EXPO "Where Joy Begins" at the Virginia Beach Convention Center www.vafgs.org, 757-718-6807 January 28-31, 2013, VIRGINIA TURFGRASS COUNCIL CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW, Fredericksburg Convention Center, www.turfconference.org February 4-7, 2013, MID-ATLANTIC HORTICULTURE SHORT COURSE (MAHSC), at the Marriott at City Center in Newport News www.mahsc.org
For a Current Calendar of all Green Industry Events, go:
http://virginiagreen.org/events.htm Newsletter VNLAVNLA Newsletter
National Brands, Homegrown Diversity
Licensed Grower of Encore Azalea®
www.pendernursery.com • 1.800.942.1648 • FAX 919.773.0904 • sales@pendernursery.com
Prsrt. Std U.S. Postage PAID Blacksburg, VA Permit No. 107
Your Roots Are In Virginia!
383 Coal Hollow Rd. Christiansburg, VA 24073-6721
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