Association
VOL. 23/NO. 3 Fall 2022
Official
of The Tennessee
TUFC Enters a New Growth Cycle with A Focus on the Future
Employment in the Green Industry: A Labor of Love
The Publication Nursery and Landscape
HELPING YOU CULTIVATE SUCCESS. At Kubota of McMinnville , we are passionately committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products, most innovative solutions, and services delivered with integrity and professionalism. 931-474-1201 532 Harrison Ferry Rd. // McMinnville, TN 37110 // kubotaofmcminnville.com
Clifford’s PERENNIAL & VINE We specialize in Southern Perennials, Hardy Tropicals, and Mixed Containers. Grown Outdoors in Lewisburg , TN We have a large selection of Daylily, Hosta, Baptisia, Heuchera, Itoh Peony, Natives, and several other great perennials. ORDER BY JANURARY 2023 and receive a 2% discount. (931) 364-7071 Email us for our 2022 info@cliffordsnurserAVAILABILTYy.com
tennessee greentimes FALL 20224
VOL. 23/NO. 3 • Fall 2022 Recent Event: TNLA / TSU Field Day 8 Recent Event: TNLA Membership Awards and Business Meeting 8 A New and Improved Mobile Weed Manual 20 From the President................................................................................................................... 6 TNLA Sponsors 6 Index of Advertisers................................................................................................................ 19 Welcome, New TNLA Members 29 MORE DEPARTMENTSFEATURES FEATUREFEATURECOVER STORY 101622 The 411 on Fall Armyworms Employment in the Green Industry: A Labor of Love TUFC Enters a New Growth Cycle with A Focus on the Future The Official Publication of The Tennessee Nursery and Landscape Association
The Tennessee Nursery and Landscape Association serves its members in the industry through education, promotion and representation. The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, its staff, or its board of directors, Tennessee GreenTimes, or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or their identification as Tennessee Nursery and Landscape Association members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this quarterly publication. Copyright ©2022 by the Tennessee Nursery and Landscape Association. Tennessee GreenTimes is published quarterly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of the Tennessee Nursery and Landscape Association Third-class postage is paid at Jefferson City, MO. Printed in the U.S.A. Reprints and Submissions: Tennessee GreenTimes allows reprinting of material. Permission requests should be directed to the Tennessee Nursery and Landscape Association. We are not responsible for unsolicited freelance manuscripts and photographs. Contact the managing editor for contribution information. Advertising: For display and classified advertising rates and insertions, please contact Leading Edge Communications, LLC, 206 Bridge Street, Suite 200, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 790-3718, Fax (615) 794-4524.
MIKE BROWN’S WHOLESALE NURSERY, LLC. • 525 HOLTZCLAW LANE • HUSTONVILLE, KY 40437 Member of the Boxwood Blight Cleanliness Program with University of Kentucky. OFFICE PHONE: 606-346-0863 • FAX: 606-346-2139 • MIKE’S CELL: 606-706-1620 EMAIL: brownsnursery@yahoo.com North Pole Arb Franklin’s Gem Boxwood China Girl Holly Winterthur ViburnumEmerald Green Arb American Boxwood Green Giant & Nigra Arbs Sullivan Cypress Gem Box Inkberry Nova Taxus Green Mtn. Boxwood SprinterExcelsaBoxwoodArb Uptight Boxwood Green Gem Boxwood Steeds Holly Popcorn Viburnum Hicksi TaxusChicagoland Green Boxwood Firelight Hydrangeas & Sprinter Boxwoods Densiformis Taxus Pragense Viburnum Wintergem BoxwoodPolar Gold Arb & Sky Pencil Holly
Randall Walker Farms
Michael Gallagher Heather Farms
MembershipSponsors
“And once the storm is over, you won’t remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive.
Drees Plant Wholesalers
SwaffordSuper-SodNursery, Inc. Tennessee 811
Tennessee Valley Nursery
Warren County Nursery, Inc.
Blankenship Farms and Nursery
Tennessee Wholesale Nursery
Old Courthouse Nursery
You won’t even be sure whether the storm is really over.
Barky Beaver Mulch & Soil Mix, Inc.
BASF
That’s what this storm’s all about.”
Turf Mountain Sod
When you come out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in.
Putnals Premium Pine Straw, Inc.
Itwww.tnla.comTNLAOffice:Cell:www.heatherfarmsnursery.comNursery(931)619-9544(931)635-2826President
GOLDSPONSORSMEMBERSHIP
— Haruki Murakami
With that being said, TNLA wants to give a special thanks to all of our sponsors who con tinue to support us year after year. This allows us to put together such good events so we can come together and celebrate our hard work. We hope everyone has a prosperous fall and grows with the seasons.
Bobcat of NashvilleCherryBWIBotanico,McMinnvilleInc.ofMemphisSpringsNurseryFlowerCityNurseriesLandscapeSystems, Inc.
tennessee greentimes FALL 20226
Bert Driver Nursery
SBF Plant Sales
But one thing is certain.
Nufarm Americas, Inc.
TNLA would like to thank the following companies for being
has been a tough year on all of us, and not just for our industry. When fuel rises so do chemicals, containers, and fertilizer. In general, the cost of living has gone up signifi cantly. As we all know most farmers, growers, etc. don’t raise their prices unless truly necessary. Oftentimes, that means the very people helping the world go round suffer. This is why it’s so important that our industry sticks together and helps one another out. Between ris ing prices, dogwood dieback, supply and demand and all of the other worldly problems let’s ask ourselves, “How much stress can a plant take and still thrive?” Apply that answer in your own business and allow it to flourish. Simply maintaining causes burn outs. We create a beautiful life, and I believe we should thrive and enjoy it wholeheartedly.
Youngblood Farms
Furbee Nursery Sales
Riverbend Nurseries, LLC
SILVERSPONSORSMEMBERSHIP
From the President Michael Gallagher
Dayton Bag & Burlap Co.
Cam Too Camellia Nursery, Inc.
Rusty Mangrum Nursery Samara Farms
SAVES Good Timing 0 PERCENT.* 0 DOWN. 0 HASSLE. West Knoxville 865.218.8800 East Knoxville 865.546.1414 Chattan oo ga 423.698.6943 Crossville 931.456.6543 Sevierville 865.595.3750 Tri-c it ies 423.323.0400
PLATINUM Botanico,BASF Inc. Harrell’s, LLC OHP, Inc. SiteOne Landscape Supply GOLD BWI Companies Heather Farms Nursery Scenic Hills Nursery Turner & Sons Nursery SILVER Carquest Ozzy’s Auto Parts Douglas & Lanier Insurance Agency, Inc. Farm Credit TriGreenMid-SouthMid-AmericaNurseryNYPCorp.Equipment,LLCTrivett’sNursery,LLCTupperTreeFarm BRONZE Bert Driver Nursery Champion Chevrolet, Buick, GMC Circle J Tree Farm Drees Plant Wholesalers Mize Farm & Garden Southern AG Woodbury Insurance Agency, Inc. MembershipTNLAAwards and Business Meeting Special Thanks to our Sponsors Thank you to our Exhibitors RecenttennesseeEventsgreentimes FALL 20228 TNLAInsuranceChampionBWIBioSafeBASFSystemsBotanico,Inc.CompaniesChevrolet,Buick,GMCCraneWorksDouglas&LanierInsuranceAgencyHarrell’s,LLCHomeCraftICLGroupJFrankSchmidtNYPOHP,Inc.SchaefferManufacturing,Inc.SiteOneLandscapeSupplySouthernAGTriGreenEquipmentWoodburyAgency,Inc./TSUFieldDay
TURFCOOSACENTIPEDEFESCUETIFWAY419VALLEYFARMSLLCGROWERSOFQUALITYTURFSINCE1987www.CoosaValleyTurfFarms.com(256)927-4228•(256)927-4758FAX•cvtf@tds.net900CountyRoad492•Centre,AL35960 MEMBER OF Browse our inventory online Jasowww.CenterHillNurseries.comat:NPoss,GeneralManager (615) 597-1888 or centerhillnursery@hotmail.com open M – F, 7aM – 4PM at 897 s Congress Blvd. smithville, TN 37166 CoNTaiNer GrowN orNaMeNTals, PereNNials & Trees Center Hill Nursery, llC The Tennessee Greentimes is the official publication of The Tennessee Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc. 115 Lyon McMinnville,StreetTennessee 37110 (931) 473-3951 Fax (931) Email:www.tnla.com473-5883mail@tnla.com Published by Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street, Suite 200 Franklin, Tennessee 37064 (615) 790-3718 Fax (615) 794-4524 Email:communications.cominfo@leadingedge Editors Dr. Bill Klingeman Dr. Amy Fulcher Associate Editors Dr. Karla Addesso Dr. Nick Gawel Dr. John Sorochan TNLA PresidentOfficers Michael Gallagher Heather Farms Nursery 1st Vice President Terri TurnerTurner&Son’s Nursery 2nd Vice President Jon Botanico,FlandersInc. 3rd Vice President Osvaldo Lopez Ozzy’s Lawncare & Hardscape Services Secretary-Treasurer Bryan Mid-SouthTate Nursery Associate Director Chris Hackler Drees Plant Wholesalers Ex-Officio Morgan Adcock Scenic Hills Nursery Executive Director Louree Walker
Cover Story W 1
After Three Decades, Tennessee’s Urban Forestry Council Is Making Great Gains on Exciting New Initiatives (and Relaunching Fan Favorites)
Can Green Spaces Help People Socialize?
neighborhood spaces. Sullivan, W.C., F.E. Kuo, and S.F. Depooter (2004) The Fruit of Urban Nature: Vital Neighborhood Spaces. Environment and Behavior, 36(5): 678-700.
and the
plays an important role in
that
Trees and grasses spaces amount of social activity occurs within them. Results of studies like this one support evidence that nature vitalizing
affect our use of outdoor
hen you think of the word “forest,” do you picture a rural landscape? A state park? Somewhere away from town or not where you live? If so, you are not alone. Forests are often perceived to be places you go to, away from humans and the built environment. But did you know that forests are all around you? Urban and community forests are integral parts of cities and towns across Tennessee no matter their size or population. The presence of urban and community forests, or lack thereof, brings diverse impacts ranging from human health and well-being to issues such as stormwater man agement (Photo 1). Spreading the message about community forests and the many benefits these resources provide is one of the main goals of Tennessee Urban Forestry Council, the state’s oldest urban forestry nonprofit organization.
We would be remiss to present the 32-year history of TUFC as all success and to exclude the impact of challenges faced in recent years. TUFC and its leadership have undergone a significant period of reflec tion and transition. Since 2019, the organization has been moving from primarily program-focused efforts to those that are impact-focused. Honestly, we are not there yet, and while the transition has not been pretty at times (COVID has definitely complicated planning and
The Tennessee Urban Forestry Council (TUFC) was formed in 1991 through the leadership of the Tennessee Division of Forestry and has since developed programming and partnerships that impact every region of the state. TUFC’s annual conference, educational events, and community programs support our mission (adopted in 2020) to inspire and empower the development, growth and sustainability of healthy community forests and affirms our vision that all Tennesseans will have access to the numerous benefits community forests provide.
By Ashley Kite-Rowland, Urban and Community Forestry Partnership Coordinator and Dr. Sharon Jean-Philippe, Professor, Forestry Wildlife and Fisheries Department, The University of Tennessee
EntersTUFC a New Growth Cycle with A Focus on the Future
tennessee greentimes FALL 202210
The TUFC Arboretum Program is still flourishing, now with a new ly adopted mission to develop a network of arboreta across Tennessee. TUFC’s objective is that arboreta are well-maintained, open to the pub lic and proactively utilized for experiential education about trees and the important role they play in communities. Arboretum certification criteria remain the same with the requirement of 30, 60, 90 and 120 distinct species of trees to achieve differing certification levels (Photo 3).
operations!), we remain confident that the changes we are making are for the greater good of the organization and communities across the state.
One of the most impactful things we have started during the last couple of years is a webinar series in partnership with the Residential and Community Forestry Working Group at the University of Tennessee. Working together, UT and Tennessee Urban Forestry Council bring free educational seminars to engage interested citizens and help Extension agents and industry professionals manage urban forests. These educational seminars offer continuing education credits for certified arborists, certified foresters, and/or pesticide points. We are beginning to branch back out to having in-person workshops and presentations, but this will not replace the webinar series, which we plan to continue in 2023.
Through numerous conversations and strategic listening sessions, a new relationship emerged in 2020 that now aligns the once disparate trajectories of Tennessee’s Urban and Community Forestry Program with the objec tives of TUFC. This alignment resulted not only in new goals, but a new position for TUFC: that of Urban & Community Forestry Partnership Coordinator, which was filled by story co-author, Ashley Kite-Rowland in November 2020 (Photo 2). The responsibilities and focus on building re lationships that are required of this position have helped to formally bridge the gap between the state’s goals regarding urban and community forest and TUFC’s programming. After piloting this position for six months, a second Forest Program Coordinator position was created in summer 2021. Together these positions in TUFC are shifting Tennessee’s Urban and
Community Forestry Program from being primarily a state actor to one that is diversely collaborative in its work throughout the state.
So, what has changed in the last few years? Are we still providing the programs that people love? Well, let’s begin with collaboration, which is such an important part of impact-driven work, because our collabora tions have played a fundamental role in our transition over the last three years. Without question, collaboration has been central to TUFC from the organization’s inception. One of the most critical partnerships has always been between the TUFC and Tennessee Division of Forestry. Across time, the agility and strength of this relationship diminished as our organization’s programs, such as Arboretum Certification, became more popular and required more time to administer. This disconnect in our partnership pulled TUFC’s focus from the broader TN Urban and Community Forestry Program’s efforts and contributed to losing sight of why TUFC initiated these programs in the first place. This division was a disadvantage that we sought to remedy beginning in 2019.
tennessee greentimes FALL 2022 11
Today, our project collaborators within the state and outside TN have grown to include regional nonprofit groups, city governments, volunteers, and more! This evolution has resulted in increased grant writing, with several recently awarded grants enabling projects that address tree equity; developing greater connections with our regional peers; and working to ensure we are building a solid foundation that can withstand the changes that will inevitably come. So, while we may not have fully achieved our newly envisioned objectives, we are already making great strides toward success!
32
We currently have 97 arboreta actively certified throughout the state in big cities, small towns, school yards and cemeteries (Photo 4). This has always been one of our most popular programs, and this popularity con tributed to the development of the Tree Sanctuary recognition program.
healthy yard pledge, which includes no topping, using a certified arbor ist when appropriate, and providing proper tree care. There are cur rently several tree sanctuaries recognized throughout Tennessee. Along with the Tree Sanctuary program, the TUFC provides recognitions of Landmark, Historic, and Heritage Trees throughout the state. This pro gram blends fascinating history, trees, and a sense of place, making this one of our most beloved efforts. The online registry, which is currently being updated, features the recognized trees, their story and location. This program has been featured on public television and resulted in a coffee table book, Tennessee Trees, that is available for purchase online.
TUFC’s Tree Sanctuary program was developed for homeowners and is committed to establishing and maintaining tree species diversity (Photo 5). It recognizes home landscapes with 10 or more diverse spe cies of trees. To be certified a Tree Sanctuary, applicants are required to submit pictures, a map (digital or hand drawn) and a tree list with both common and scientific names. Homeowners are also required to sign a
Cover Story
Continued 5 4 tennessee greentimes FALL 202212
POUNDS PER 1000 ft OF ROW 14182430 TEETHSOCKETPER9121518500 lb. Adjustablecapacityfrom 36" – 72" wide Ground drive for consistent application Linkage for positive height adjustment Four easy change sprockets for feed rate adjustment Stainless steel hoppers and metering system Approximate feed rates: 16-16-16 CUSTOM METAL FABRICATION & REPAIR ALL EQUIPMENT COMES WITH DURABLE POWDER COATING 14377 Whiskey Hill Rd. Hubbard, OR 97032 FAX 503-981-4985 Building Quality Nursery Equipment since 1989 503-981-7517 KD16 TANDEM KF FERTILIZER SIDEDRESSER CULTIVATORSKTC-36KS COVERCROPSTAINLESSSEEDERS 16 gauge Adjustablestainlessfeedcontrol12voltelectricdriveMountsonKTCcultivatororKDdisc24”or30”models 36” standard width Side shields float Pneumatic gauge wheels Works great for planting covercrop with seeder SEPARATESOLD INCREASE PROFITS WITH THE SPEED OF A DISC VERSUS A TILLER. SIZES FROM 34" – 40" Greasable agriculture disc Shovelbearingseliminates center line 12, 16" notched blades Four adjustable cutting angles Metal float in rear 2 1/2 square tube frame Adjustable side shields contain soil Custom sizes up to 60"
A Heritage Tree is a fallen member of the registry whose contribution to the history and heritage of Tennessee deserves preserving.
The Tennessee Urban Forestry Council also hosts an annual research and outreach conference for tree care professionals, our membership, and the interested public (Photo 6). Attendees benefit from opportunities to hear from leaders in community forestry on diverse topics, to meet with peers, and leave inspired to go back to our respective niches knowing we are part of something greater than our solo endeavors; that together we are making a difference. Newly recognized Landmark, Historic, and Heritage Trees are also formally acknowledged at the President’s Reception during the TUFC Annual Conference. Recipients of TUFC’s different Awards of Excellence are also honored (Photo 7). The Awards of Excellence program acknowledges individuals, teams, and businesses that are making a difference in community forests throughout the state. Awards are given in the following categories: Citizen Activist; Private Professional; Arboretum; Tree Board; Media; Government Employee; Green Industry; and the President’s Award. One of the great things about this program is that through the stories of these awardees, TUFC can high light how one person can make an extraordinary difference in Tennessee and the world around them (Photo 8). So, if you know someone who is doing great things for the urban and community forests in your area, please nominate them to receive one of these awards.
Continued
687
This year’s 2022 annual conference will be held at Montgomery Bell State Park on November 9th and 10th. The 2022 conference theme is Growing Greener Tennessee Communities and featured presentations will address the benefits of urban forests; green infrastructure; disaster preparedness, response, and recovery; addressing issues of tree equity; and more. Topics were chosen to inspire and empower urban and community forestry endeavors throughout all regions of the state. To learn more about our annual conference, please visit https://tufc.com/ programs/urban-forestry-conference/. We hope to see you there!
tennessee greentimes FALL 202214
Cover Story
A Landmark Tree is commonly recognized as an estab lished and familiar feature of the community, confirmed as a significant part of the community’s heritage, or planted to commemorate special events or community leaders more than fifty years ago.
A Historic Tree has been a direct witness to a historic event or cultural movement significant nationally, re gionally, or within the state and confirmed to date to that time.
tennessee greentimes FALL 202216
By Alicia L. Rihn 1 & Amy Fulcher 2
TABLE 1. Percent of Annual Sales Attributed to Different Product Forms, by Survey Year and Location U.S. 5-state Region (TN, GA, KY, NC, SC) Tennessee Average 2009 2014 2019 Average 2009 2014 2019 Average 2009 2014 2019 Containerized 62.6% 57.1% 64.5% 65.7% 59.5% 47.4% 68.1% 67.2% 48.0% 37.6% 60.9% 53.4% Balled and burlapped 13.2% 17.2% 11.1% 8.9% 16.6% 25.9% 10.2% 10.4% 24.0% 30.9% 17.9% 15.1% Field grown bag 0.9% 1.2% 0.4% 1.1% 0.5% 0.4% 0.5% 0.4% 0.4% 0.4% 0.5% 0.0% Bare root 6.1% 5.9% 6.1% 6.6% 10.0% 11.9% 8.2% 9.4% 19.3% 20.7% 12.5% 29.1% Balled and potted / process balled 1.2% 1.7% 0.8% 0.8% 0.9% 1.3% 0.9% 0.3% 0.9% 0.5% 1.8% 0.3% In-ground containers 1.7% 1.6% 1.8% 1.9% 1.2% 1.2% 1.3% 0.8% 0.9% 1.6% 0.3% 0.1% “Other” product types 8.9% 9.0% 9.5% 7.6% 5.9% 5.6% 6.5% 5.4% 3.5% 3.6% 4.1% 1.9% Total No. of Obs. 5228 2257 1761 1210 779 315 292 172 167 84 56 27
Plants can be grown in a variety of ways which can impact labor needs. Seven different product forms were used in this research, in cluding: containerized, balled and burlapped, field grown bag, bare root, balled and potted/process balled, in-ground containers, and “other” product forms. Trends by form were examined across the three geographic areas and found to be very similar with containerized
Interestingly, the number of employees varies by operations with 50% or more of sales attributed to container production versus opera tions with other types of production (Fig. 2). Firms growing plants primarily in containers saw downward trends in permanent and tem porary/seasonal employees (Fig. 2a). There was a slight increase in H2A labor. Firms growing plants primarily using “other” product forms (less than 50% sales from containerized plants) saw a downward trend in temporary/seasonal employees across the time points evaluated (Fig. 2b). H-2A employees decreased from 2014 to 2019 while there was an upward trend in the number of permanent employees starting in 2014. Even at the height of H-2A employment during the survey period, nurseries averaged fewer than 4 H-2A workers.
Feature L EMPLOYMENT in the GREEN INDUSTRY
1Assistant Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Tennessee 2Professor in the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Tennessee
A Labor of Love
production representing the largest portion of annual sales, followed by balled and burlapped (Table 1). In the 5-state region and Tennessee, bare root was the next highest category, increasing by 133% from 2014 to 2019, followed by “other”. In the U.S., containerized produc tion increased substantially between 2009 and 2014 with only a slight increase in 2019. Conversely, the 5-state region and Tennessee saw a slight decrease in containerized production between 2014 and 2019.
abor scarcity in the agricultural sectors, including nurseries and other green industry businesses, has been a concern in recent years. The Covid-19 pandemic caused a domino effect in the green industry where demand for plants exploded, and production increased, meaning more labor was needed to meet consumers’ demand for plants. Further compounding the issue, throughout the country many employees from all walks of life chose to resign from their posi tions (termed “the Great Resignation”). As a result, the current labor market is very different from years past and constantly changing. How ever, there is an opportunity for innovative problem solving to improve efficient use of existing labor resources and encourage employees to remain at their current companies. A recent Extension publication series from UTIA examined industry trends related to labor use in Tennessee’s green industry and neighboring states. The report addresses historical employment trends in the green industry at time points span ning a ten-year period from 2009 to 2019 evaluated by geographic areas that included the U.S., a five-state region (GA, KY, NC, SC, TN), and Tennessee only. Understanding these results provides firms the opportunity to see potential trends, reevaluate their current approach, and make strategic adjustments to their businesses. In part 1 of our presentation of these data, we summarize our key findings.
Considering the modest gain in the U.S. from 2014 to 2019 (64.5% to 65.7%), it appears that production levels of containerized products have plateaued nationally, in the 5-state region, and in Tennessee.
Over time, we are observing a downward trend in the number of em ployees in green industry firms (Fig. 1). This trend is fairly consistent across permanent full-time, temporary/seasonal, and H-2A employees. However, Tennessee experienced an upward trend in seasonal/tempo rary employees from 2014 to 2019.
FIGURE 2. Average Number of Employees in U.S. Green Industry Firms with 50% or more Containerized Plant Sales
FIGURE 1. Average Number of Employees in U.S. Green Industry Firms.
Photo Credit: Amy Fulcher
tennessee greentimes FALL 2022 17
Among container operations in the 5-state region, the number of permanent employees decreased by more than 60% across the 10 years surveyed (Fig. 3a). Temporary/seasonal workers increased from 2009 to 2014 and then decreased to 2019 while the number of H-2A work ers remained almost the same between 2014 and 2019. Conversely, in operations growing plants in alternative forms, permanent employees increased from 2009 to 2014 and then decreased by 2019 (Fig. 3b). The opposite trend occurred in the seasonal/temporary employees. H-2A employees decreased by more than 8 workers per firm between 2014 and 2019.
FIGURE 4. Average Number of Employees in Tennessee Green Industry Firms, by Plant Production Firm
In Tennessee, the number of permanent and temporary/seasonal workers decreased by approximately 50% from 2009 to 2014 and and then generally leveled off to approximately 4-5 permanent employees for both container and other plant operations (Fig. 4a, Fig. 4b). The number of temporary/seasonal workers increased from 2014 to 2019 to an average of 7 employees working in container operations, whereas employee numbers stayed constant at about 3 workers in operations growing “other” product forms within the same time period.
A key theme of this report is that (in general) the number of employees in green industry firms is decreasing, but at a slower rate in the most re cent data collection period. In the next Tennessee Greentimes issue, we will present part 2 in this series that addresses the labor shortage and factors that are impacting business strategies in the green industry. Stay tuned!
Rihn, A.L., A. Fulcher, H. Khachatryan. 2021. A ten-year review of the southeast U.S. green industry, part I: Labor and firm characteristics. University of Tennessee Extension Publication W 1026.
Rihn, A.L., A. Fulcher, H. Khachatryan, A. LeBude, L.A. Warner, S. Schexnayder. 2022. A ten-year review of the southeast U.S. green industry, part II: Addressing labor shortages and internal and external factors affecting business strategies. University of Tennessee Extension Publication W 1080.
RESOURCES
Feature Continued
tennessee greentimes FALL 202218
FIGURE 3. Average Number of Employees in Green Industry Firms in the 5-state Region, by Plant Production Firm
HOOVER & SON INSURANCE “Since 1901” 114 S. COURT SQUARE • P.O. BOX 669 M c MINNVILLE, TN 37111 (931) 473-2200 • CELL (931) 212-9856 E-Mail: hooverins@blomand.net • www.hooverins.com “The more than one company agency” FRED LEE HOOVER Index of Advertisers Better Bilt Products 30, Inside Back Cover bbponline.com BioSafe Systems, LLC 21 www.biosafesystems.com Blakenship Farms and Nursery Back Cover www.blankenshipfarmsandnursery.com Braun Horticulture Inc 27 www.braungroup.com Brown’s Nursery 5 Cam Too Camellia Nursery, Inc. 29 www.camtoocamellia.com Center Hill Nursery .......................................... 9 centerhillnurseries.com Clifford’s Perennial and Vine 3 cliffordsnursery.com Coosa Valley Turf Farms 9 www.coosavalleyturffarms.com Fairview Evergreen Nurseries 23 www.fairviewevergreen.com Herd Farms Nursery 27 www.herdfarmsnursery.com Hidden Valley Nursery, LLC 27 www.hiddenvalleynursery.com Hoover & Son Insurance 19 www.hooverins.com John Holmlund Nursery ............................... 25 www.jhnsy.com King’s Industries 13 Tennessee Valley Tractor and Equipment ..... Inside Front Cover www.tennesseevalleytractor.com Leading Edge Communications 27 www.LeadingEdgeCommunications.com Pleasant Cove Nursery Inc 19 www.pleasantcovenursery.com Richey Nursery Company, LLC 29 www.richeynursery.com Rusty Mangrum Nursery 15 www.rustymangrumnursery.com Stowers Machinery Corporation 7 stowerscat.com Surface Nursery Inc. 25 www.surfacenursery.com Tennessee 811 .............................................. 19 www.tnonecall.com Turner & Son’s Nursery 29 tennessee greentimes FALL 2022 19
By J.T. Brosnan, Professor, and G.K. Breeden, Extension Specialist, Department of Plant Sciences, the University of Tennessee
tennessee greentimes FALL 202220
A New and Improved Mobile Weed Manual
The University of Tennessee (UT) launched Mobile Weed Manual in May 2013 as a new resource to aid individuals in selecting herbicides for use in both warm- and cool-season turfgrass, as well as ornamentals. This digital resource was a replacement to a historical UT Extension publication, PB 1789- Weed Control for Turf Managers in Tennessee, that was only available in county extension offices in print form.
Improve the data framework to facilitate in-season updates.
Improve the user-interface to facilitate faster Incorporatesearchingphotos of both turfgrass and weeds to aid users
Download for Apple Devices via the App details?id=io.mesur.manual.prd&hl=en_US&gl=USDownloadmobile-weed-manual/id1572882654https://apps.apple.com/us/app/Store:forAndroidDevicesviatheGooglePlayStore:https://play.google.com/store/apps/
MOBILE WEED MANUAL 2.0
The new and improved Mobile Weed Manual 2.0 gained popularity quickly, drawing over 1,000+ users per month after initial launch. Users have taken advantage of a new user-interface that streamlines searches, as well as incorporation of both weed and turfgrass photos to guide individu als through the search process (Figure 1). Coupling turfgrass and weed identification photos with herbicide recommendations was a logical next step in the advancement of the original version of the tnturfgrassweeds.org weed ID tool.
In 2021, a decision was made to upgrade Mobile Weed Manual. This upgrade would have several primary objectives:
FIGURE 1
Mobile Weed Manual was initially developed as mobile-friendly web site (mobileweedmanual.com) that allowed use on any device that had access to the internet. Users could quickly filter through the entire suite of active ingredients labeled for use in turfgrass or ornamentals to find options for their unique situation. Users could simply select their turf type and/or weed species to get a list of herbicides that would be applica ble to that situation. Conversely, a user could generate a list of herbicides to control a specific weed regardless of turf type or generate options for weed control in different ornamental plantings. Regardless of the search performed, all herbicides returned would be ranked based on results of UT research trials and contain direct links to both product labels and safety data sheets (SDS). When a particular weed-herbicide combination had not been studied at UT but was labeled for the use outlined via the search, results were marked “LND – Labeled but no UT data available.”
BACKGROUND
Feature
Thanks to a collaboration with digital specialists at mesur.io, a new and improved Mobile Weed Manual 2.0 launched in June 2021. This free resource is now available as a standalone mobile application for use on Apple and Android smartphones and tablets. The historical web address, mobileweedmanual.com, was also updated and takes users to the new and improved version of this resource.
Make this resource available for download as a standalone mobile application
The initial launch of the Mobile Weed Manual website was very successful. The site was updated once annually (typically in January) and drew over 234,000 visitors from 191 different countries, as well as each of the 50 United States and over 268 municipalities across Tennessee. One hurdle that limited use was that Mobile Weed Manual was not available for download as a stand-alone mobile application on smartphones and tablets. Users were forced to save the web address to the home screen of their devices for it to function similar to a mobile application. Additionally, functionality was either compromised or negated in areas with limited or no internet access.
1-888-273-3088 | BioSafeSystems.com BioSafe Systems is your true partner in horticulture with accessible service, technical support, and sustainable chemistries for all stages of production. EXCLUSIVE OFFER
Authors would like to acknowledge Mike Prorock, Russell Hofvendahl, Chris Abernethy, and Tom Rump from mesur.io for their efforts in developing Mobile Weed Manual 2.0
Additionally, the Mobile Weed Manual data frame was also updated to improve our ability to keep the resource current. Mobile Weed Manual 2.0 can now be updated multiple times during the season (rather than once annually) such that users will also have access to the most current label and efficacy information for over 114 different herbicides labeled for use in turf and ornamentals. With the ability to regularly update Mobile Weed Manual 2.0, users are encouraged to provide feedback on how to enhance the resource (Photo 3, arrow). This could include adding new weeds, new herbicides, or other functionality changes.
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 3
An additional benefit of the new user-interface is that Mobile Weed Manual 2.0 can now recommend herbicide mixtures to control prob lematic weeds such as Poa annua (Figure 2).
tennessee greentimes FALL 2022 21
We encourage everyone to download Mobile Weed Manual 2.0 for the upcoming season and hope it’s a helpful tool in selecting herbicides for use in turfgrass and landscape ornamentals.
The 411 on Fall
Armyworms
tennessee greentimes FALL 202222
Feature
By Terri Billeisen, Ph.D., Turfgrass Entomology Lab, North Carolina State University
*
lthough they have a wide host range which includes many agricultural crops, fall armyworms are turfgrass insect pests that cause significant and almost immediate damage in both cool- and warm-season grasses. Fall armyworms are a common issue in the southeastern US but during active years, can spread to the Northeast, Midwest, and Southwest (Figure. 1). Nationwide, 2021 was an extreme year for fall armyworms in terms of abundance and distribution. Many observed record numbers of caterpillars and subsequent damage in areas both familiar and unfamiliar with the pest insect. Reports of widespread, severe infestations resulted in extensive media coverage which added to a sense of alarm regarding the outbreak. Like many turfgrass entomology centers, our lab was flooded with calls and emails requesting not only management recommendations but also reassurance that the fall armyworm situation was under control. Uncertainty surrounding pest outbreaks is not only stressful but can cause managers to panic when making management decisions. This can lead to misapplications which stem from common mistakes such as targeting the insect at the incorrect time or life stage, or selecting an inappropriate product or formulation.Asfallarmyworm season gets fully underway, it is a good idea to review important aspects of fall armyworm biology and how these affect our approaches to management. We will review different life stages, behavior and ecology and emphasize how that influences the types of products we use and when is the best time to use them. This information should help us improve our fall armyworm approaches, not only during times of outbreak, but for regular management as well.
A
Northern Range Middle ExtremeSouthernRangeRangeSouthern Range
FIGURE. 1: Fall Armyworm Distribution (In Handbook of Turfgrass Insects, Second Edition. eds. Brandenburg and Freeman, 2012)
Spirea Kim Lilac
Tor Miss
The finest Taxus and Boxwood in the industry and so much more.
Sugar Maple Purple Passion Rhododendron Cornus Florida AvailabilitySeeListonourwebsite! FairviewEvergreen.com 7463 West Ridge Rd. P.O. Box 189 Fairview PA 16415 800.458.2234 e-mail: info@FairviewEvergreen.com
FIGURE. 4: Fall Armyworm Caterpillars (Larvae) (Photo Credit: R. Brandenburg, NC State University)
FIGURE. 3: Fall Armyworm Sticky Trap with Lure (Photo Credit: J. Smith, Elk River Club)
Fall armyworm adults are small, brown moths (Figure. 2) that are active at night, which makes them difficult to monitor unless you have a sticky trap and pheromone lure (Figure. 3). Similar to other moth species, fall armyworm adults are attracted to lights at night and a well-lit turfgrass area may be more susceptible to fall armyworm outbreaks compared to others. Adult female moths lay their eggs in groups of 100-200 in a clustered mass on the sides of flat, sometimes stationary, surfaces like buildings, fences, signs/sign posts, outdoor furniture or large ornamental leaves. During outbreak years, moths are less particular about their egg laying preferences and will lay eggs on other kinds of moving surfaces like flags, vehicles and smaller ornamentals. Within 3 – 5 days, eggs will hatch and tiny caterpillars (larvae) will drop down to the turfgrass and immediately start feeding. Caterpillars (Figure. 4) can range from ½ – 2 inches and will feed for a few weeks until they pupate. They will remain in the pupal case for a week or two and then emerge again as new adult moths. The entire fall armyworm life cycle typically lasts anywhere from 1 – 2 months, depending mostly on temperature and soil moisture. They will undergo this process several times from June-October (sometimes November) and will die off once temperatures dip below freezing.
tennessee greentimes FALL 202224 Feature Continued
DESCRIPTION
FIGURE. 2: Fall Armyworm Adult Moth (female) (Photo Credit: M. Bertone, NC State University)
In normal years, fall armyworms generally prefer feeding on finer-textured grasses although we have observed significant fall armyworm feeding in many different grasses and agricultural crops. In residential areas, we have observed that there is a slight tendency to avoid zoysiagrass when other turfgrass species are present but this is not the case during outbreak years or in high population areas. Fall armyworm damage is easily identifiable compared to other turfgrass insects because you can often draw a distinct line in the turf between damaged and undamaged areas (Figure. 5). Unlike other insect pests, you can also easily spot caterpillars “army crawling” across the turf
surface during the mid-morning and early evening in the summer (Figure. 6). During the warmest time of day, you will want to use a soap flush to investigate any areas you suspect as having fall armyworm damage. Soap flushes use lemon-scented dish detergent mixed in water (2 tablespoons soap/gal water) applied to the turf to bring mobile insects like caterpillars, weevils and mole crickets to the surface within a few minutes. When applying a soap flush for fall armyworms, make sure to apply the soap mixture to an area along the border between damaged and undamaged turf to ensure caterpillars are present. As highly mobile insects, caterpillars are rarely present in severely damaged areas and flushing in those locations will often yield few to no insects.
FIGURE. 5: Fall Armyworm Damage (note: distinct line) (Photo Credit: R. Brandenburg, NC State University)
tennessee greentimes FALL 202226 Feature Continued
FIGURE. 6: Fall Armyworms on Turf Surface (Photo Credit: R. Brandenburg, NC State University)
DAMAGE AND MONITORING
tennessee greentimes FALL 2022 27 DIGITAL MARKETPLACE | Scan the QR Code to learn more about this company. TheTurfZone.com is the central hub for turfgrass research and information from multiple state turf associations.DOZENSofUpcomingEventsAnnual555,000+DigitalPageViews167 ISSUES of Turfgrass371Magazines Podcasts and Many More to Come! facebook.com/theturfzone sales@leadingedgecommunications.comtwitter.com/theturfzone888–707-7141ContactustodaytolearnabouteffectiveanduniqueTurfZonemarketingstrategiesthattargetturfindustryprofessionals. time.yousavetoDesigned Try a better wire basket at braunbaskets.com 1-800-246-6984 P.O. Box 235 • Hwy 108 South • Viola, Tennessee 37394 • (931)635-3535 Our business is growing. (and it has been for over 40 years)
MANAGEMENT
o Because fall armyworms can cause a lot of damage in a short period of time, it is best to treat as soon as you notice activity.
(compiled from inquiries in 2021)
tennessee greentimes FALL 202228
In terms of management, there are a couple of things to keep in mind prior to selecting a product. First, ensure that you are targeting the correct life stage – the caterpillars. Applying a contact product to control the egg, pupal or adult stage is a waste of time and product. Caterpillars are the most susceptible to chemical control. Early instar caterpillars (~ ½ inches in length) are particularly susceptible to insecticides so it is ideal to target a population as early as possible. Caterpillars are also the most mobile life stage and therefore most likely to encounter treated plant material.
o 2021 had the worst outbreak of fall armyworms on record, in many areas. Fall armyworm populations and damage were on a scale that was very surprising! Areas of the upper Midwest and the Northeast suffered turf damage to both warm- and cool-season turf like they had never seen before. Some of the problems came from populations originating in Texas and some from moths that started out in Florida. These different “sources” potentially exhibit different traits for feeding preferences, like the damage we observed with seedlings and overseedings, and insecticide susceptibility.
*This article was originally published in July / August 2022 issue of North Carolina Turfgrass and is reprinted with permission.
cyantraniliprole, tetraniliprole) had been applied earlier in the season as part of a white grub management program. Early results indicate that a diamide application can provide more than 60 days residual control of fall armyworms. Residual activity of these active ingredients is part of the current research underway in our turfgrass entomology lab at NC State and we hope to have more detailed information and additional recommendations for fall armyworm management by the end of this year.
• Where do fall armyworms come from?
• How do fall armyworms move to new areas and is it unusual for them to move so quickly?
• How bad was the fall armyworm season in 2021?
Feature Continued
As we progress through this growing season, it is important to remember that fall armyworms have been causing damage in turfgrass for a long time. Like any other insect, fall armyworm populations, and subsequent damage, will fluctuate from year-to-year. When environ mental conditions are just right, outbreaks can occur which will result in numbers higher than what we are used to encountering. However, management approaches or recommendations remain the same whether we are managing a routine or outbreak pest population. A crucial component of effective management is to review information from reliable sources, preferably prior to infestation, to ensure management decisions are intentional and not reactionary.
When selecting products for fall armyworm control, there are two different approaches: a short-term solution and a long-term solution. The traditional, short-term approach will effectively and immediately control caterpillars causing damage but will have a shorter window for residual activity. This approach utilizes a (preferably) liquid pyrethroid, like bifenthrin, to quickly control caterpillars as they feed on leaf tissue. During the 2021 growing season, we observed a potential option for a preventive approach for fall armyworms in areas of intense pest pressure where an anthranilic diamide (chlorantraniliprole,
o Fall armyworms overwinter most years in southern Texas and Florida. Their northern migration can be influenced by weather patterns. We do not have the ability to accurately forecast fall armyworm problems in advance, so timing-wise they can sometimes surprise us with their damage.
o During “normal” years, fall armyworms are more likely to cause issues in turf that has had some mechanical disturbance, like in areas of new construction. They are generally more of a problem in newly-seeded or sodded areas.
• Is there a threshold for fall armyworms?
ARMYWORMFALLFAQs
o Not unusual at all. Remember, the adult life stage of a fall armyworm is a moth. Moths are capable of flying large distances in a relatively short period of time. Many insects exhibit flying behaviors associated with both localized (short) and long-term migration. Female moths fly to an area with an abundant food source (fresh, green turf, for example), lay their egg masses on the flat side of a building, fence, sign, or large leaf, and when the eggs hatch, the larvae drop to the turf below and immediately start feeding.
• Are fall armyworms more of a problem in certain areas?
Welcome MEMBERSNEW tennessee greentimes FALL 2022 29 (800) 758-8121 | CamTooCamellia.com 805 OAKBURY COURT | GREENSBORO, NC 27455 Cold Hardy Zone 6 | Cold Tolerant Zone 7 | New Hybrids Zone 8 & 9 Liners and 1, 3, 5, 7 | 15 and 20 Gallons Available | Wholesale Only News from TNLA Join online at tnla.com Gardens of Babylon Matt Kerske 900 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. Nashville, TN 37208 Goodin Lawncare, LLC Nathan Goodin 1505 Gale Lane Nashville, TN 37212 Riverdale Nursery, LLC Debra Taylor 3220 Rush Miller Road Knoxville, TN 37914 Tupper Tree Farm Erwin Tupper 89 Grove Road Morrison, TN 37357 Manufacturing,Schaeffer Inc. Amberly Brown 189 Fast Lane Woodbury, TN 37190 WoodburyAgency,InsuranceInc. Travis Hancock 234 McMinnville Hwy. Woodbury, TN 37190 ASSOCIATEACTIVE
Diablo B&B Tree Ball/ Container Cart
Serving the Needs of Nurseries, Landscapers, Arborists, and Garden Centers Since 1946 Better people. Better quality. Better Bilt. www.BBPonline.com 888-642-9914 BETTER BILT PRODUCTS ARE PROUDLY MADE IN THE U.S.A. Engineered for maximum strength and durability.
•1600 lb. capacity •Cart sizes 45”x61” •Up to 100 gal containers/44” ball •Multi use: boulders, bags, timbers
•1200 lb. capacity •Cart size 34”x61” easily fits through gates •Up to 65 gal containers/32” ball Brute
•Helical flights cut through the soil 3” or 4” for every 360° rotation •Solid steel shaft with chiseled lead edge and welded closed eye *3 models available: 15” to 30” •High holding capacity: up to 3500 lbs •Easy to remove and reuse •No power tools needed to install Drive anchor into the ground at a 45° angle (approx. 24 to 30 inches) protective tubing tree collars Anchor is "set" when is perpendicular to the securing cable. Turnbuckles for easy adjustment
Helical Auger Anchors
Brute
Tree Ball/ Rock Carts 65 100
•1200 lb. capacity •Cart size 34” x 61” easily fits through gates •Up to 32” ball, 23” depth on lip •Tow/lifting loop Earth Anchor Tree Kits • Heavy holding capacity • Avaiable in bulk packs and bagged tree kits
Easy Anchoring:
just great plants. Contact Sales@BlankenshipFarmsandNursery.comUs:(931)205-9783or(931)273-9007
