The Scoop Online – August 2011 by Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association

MINNESOTA NURSERY & LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION . . . SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSES GROW HERE!

THE

Insights and Information for Green Industry Professionals

VOLUME 34, 32, NUMBER 8 6 June August 2009 2011

Legislative Victory! Commercial Seedling Growers Catch a Break from Legislature PAGE 9

Green Infrastructure Summit

PAGE 14

PAGE 31

e! im17 T ir Fages 16 e t a Sta e p Se

ADVERTISER INDEX

THE

From the Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . 8 Government Aﬀairs . . . . . 9, 36-39, 42, 45 Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Public Relations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12, 15-17 Greenhouse & Herbaceous Growers . 18 Certiﬁcation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-21 Irrigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Business Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28, 30, 34 Green Expo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29, 40 Stormwater Management . . . . . . . . . . . 31 MNLA Shootout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-33 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44, 48, 49, 51 Careers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 MNLA Networking Event . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Plant of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

AgStar Financial Services - 37 Belgard Hardscapes-Northfield - 43 BFG Supply - 26-27 Bridgewater Tree Farms - 38 Carlin Horticultural Supplies/ProGreen Plus - 8 Casualty Assurance - 29 Central Landscape Supply - 34 Central Wisconsin Evergreens, Inc. - 10 Cherokee Mfg. - 33 Crow River Greenhouse & Nursery - 22 Cushman Motor Co., Inc. - 41 D. Hill Nursery Co. - 12 Farber Bag & Supply Co. - 50 Fireside Hearth & Home - 20 Fury Motors - 11 Gardenworld Inc. - 18 Gertens Wholesale - 9 Haag Companies, Inc. - 5 Hal Tiffany Agency - 12 Hedberg Landscape & Masonry Supplies - 39

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Jeff Belzer Chevrolet - 7 Johnson’s Nursery, Inc. - 29 Kage Innovation - 24 Klaus Nurseries - 24 Laborforce Specialists, Inc. - 43 Lano Equipment, Inc. - 44 North Country Ford - 42 Northern Christmas Trees & Nursery - 10 Out Back Nursery - 16 Rock Hard Landscape Supply division of Brian’s Lawn & Landscaping, Inc. - 15 S&S Tree Specialists - 2 The Mulch Store - 23 Titan Machinery (formerly Carlson Tractor and Equipment Co.) - 52 Titan Machinery (formerly St. Joseph Equipment Inc.) - 13 Truck Utilities & Mfg. Co. - 16 Ziegler Cat - 3

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Upcoming Events August 17 – Low Voltage Irrigation: Two Wire Systems (PLT Relicensure). Roseville, MN. For more information, see page 24 or www.MNLA.biz. 18 – MNLA Woodland Hill Winery Event. Just for fun! Delano, MN. For more information, see www.MNLA.biz. Presented by Hedberg Landscape & Masonry Supplies. 25-Sept. 5 – MNLA State Fair Display Garden. For more information, visit www.MNLA.biz. 30-31 – BFG Hort Expo. Earle Brown Heritage Center, Brooklyn Center. For more information, visit www.bfgsupply.com. 31-Sept. 1 – JR Johnson Early Order Twin Cities Show. Prom Center, Oakdale. For more information, call 651-389-3500.

September 8 – Green Infrastructure for Clean Water: Trees, Roots, and their Role in Stormwater Management. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chaska. For more information, see www.arboretum.umn.edu/symposiaandconferences.aspx. 15 – MTGF Field Day. University of Minnesota, St. Paul Campus. For more information, see www.mtgf.org. 21 – MNLA Foundation Sporting Clays Tournament. For more information, see page 32 or www.MNLA.biz. 22 – Green for Life – an MNLA Public Service Event. For more information, see page 14 or visit www.MNLA.biz.

October 12 – MNLA Snow Day. Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul. For more information, see page 30 or visit www.MNLA.biz. 18 – Ornamental Grass Collection Open House. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chaska. For more information call 952-443-1447 or e-mail meyer023@umn.edu.

November 3-5 – TCI Expo. Connecticut Convention Center, Hartford, CT. To learn more, or register, please visit www.tcia.org. 18 – MNLA/MTGF Pesticide Recertification. University of Minnesota Continuing Education & Conference Center, St. Paul. For more information, see page 30 or www.MNLA.biz.

December 12 – Lunch ‘n Learn: PGRs on Woody Plants. MNLA Oﬃce, Roseville. For more information, see page 30 or visit www.MNLA.biz.

January 3 – Super Tuesday. Minneapolis Convention Center. More information coming soon! 4-6 – Northern Green Expo. Minneapolis Convention Center. Exhibit contracts available online at www.northerngreenexpo.org or call 651-633-4987.

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Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association 1813 Lexington Ave. N. Roseville, MN 55113 651-633-4987, fax 651-633-4986 Outside the metro area, toll free: 888-886-MNLA, fax 888-266-4986 www.MNLA.biz • GardenMinnesota.com

MNLA Mission The mission of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association is to help nursery and landscape related companies in Minnesota and the surrounding region operate their businesses more successfully.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bert Swanson, MNLA-CP, President Swanson’s Nursery Consulting, Inc. 218-732-3579 • btswanson@gmail.com Debbie Lonnee, MNLA-CP, Vice President Bailey Nurseries, Inc. 651-768-3375 debbie.lonnee@baileynursery.com Heidi Heiland, MNLA-CP, Secretary-Treasurer Heidi's Lifestyle Gardens 612-366-7766 • heidi@BloomOnMN.com Van Cooley, Past President Malmborg’s, Inc. 763-535-4695 van@geraniumsbygeorge.com Randy Berg, MNLA-CP Berg’s Nursery, Landscape/Garden Center 507-433-2823 rberg@smig.net Scott Frampton Landscape Renovations 651-769-0010 sframpton@landscaperenovations.com Tim Malooly, CID, CLIA, CIC Irrigation By Design Inc. 763-559-7771 • timm@ibdmn.com Bill Mielke Wilson’s Nursery, Inc. 952-445-3630 bill@wilsonsnurseryinc.com Herman Roerick Central Landscape Supply 320-252-1601 hermanr@centrallandscape.com Bob Fitch MNLA Executive Director 651-633-4987 • bob@mnla.biz Staff directory and member services directory near the back cover. the Scoop is published 12 times per year by the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association, 1813 Lexington Ave. N., Roseville, MN 55113. Address corrections should be sent to the above address. News and advertising deadlines are the 5th of the month preceding publication.

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the Scoop | FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Special Qualities I Want to Emulate By Bob Fitch, MNLA Executive Director s a history buff, I like to mark milestones – and the next month includes several in our family:

• My wife, Kathy, and I celebrate our 25th Bob Fitch wedding anniversary on Aug. 2nd. • The 15th anniversary of my start date with MNLA is on Aug. 15th. • Kathy’s parents, Gene and Dolores Tjarks, mark their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 19th. • My son, Cole, celebrates his 21st birthday on Sept. 2nd. Looking forward, the 140th anniversary of the founding of our family farm is in 2013, my parents’ 50th wedding anniversary is in 2014, and, oh yeah, 2013 also marks the 15th year since I had any hair on the top of my head. In one way or another, all of these dates are worth celebrating. (Yes, even the hair loss is of note – I’ve saved thousands of dollars on hair spray costs since I shaved off the last of the banjo

strings!) I could write eloquently about the importance of these milestones in my life and reminisce about good times with my wife, my son, my in-laws, and my MNLA colleagues. I loved, I laughed, I cried. I’ve won a few and I’ve lost a few. But I’m not going to dwell in nostalgia today. Instead, I’m going to challenge myself to “live in the now” and look forward to how I can make my corner of the world better for me and the people around me. Here’s a list of some of the people who have special qualities I want to emulate: • Jack MacKenzie, superintendant at North Oaks Golf Club, for his boundless positive outlook. • MNLA President Bert Swanson for unselfishly giving countless hours of his time to improve his industry. • My wife for her infinite patience living with three very demanding boys (husband, son and grandson). • My son for his ability to make friends. • Scott Frampton of Landscape Renovations and Randy Berg of Berg’s Nursery for their ability to listen and think before expressing an opinion. • My dad for staying upbeat and moving his life forward even

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during difficult personal times. • My friend Brooke for academic achievement even in an abnormal family situation. • Tim Malooly and John Mickman for their passion for their businesses and their industry. • MNLA lobbyist Doug Carnival for his ability to meet people and remember names. • My colleagues in the Nursery & Landscape Association Executives for their willingness to share. • My friends Shelby, Ben, Claire, Anja, Henry, Brianna, Tyler, and Trevor for sharing their smiles. • My father- and mother-in-law for being great examples of Christian love and forgiveness. • My grandson Robby for the joy and laughter he gives to me and others. (Now, if we could just bottle his energy!) If I can do half these things half as good as the people here that I admire, my life will be better and I could look forward to commemorating a milestone of a “better Bob.” q ________________________________ Bob Fitch is executive director of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association and can be reached at bob@mnla.biz.

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GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS | the Scoop

Operations of DNR Nurseries Reined In! By Bob Fitch, MNLA Executive Director he bitter battle between Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton and Republican legislators finally came to a close with the July 19-20 special session. The convoluted nature of the session made it difficult to resolve a number of issues in a straight-forward fashion. But MNLA and its green industry allies successfully reined in a long-time government-subsidized tree-growing operation. The environment omnibus bill passed by legislators and signed into law by Gov. Dayton limits who the DNR State Forest Nurseries can sell to and appears to put one of the two nurseries on a path to closure. Following is the exact language: STATE TREE NURSERY PROGRAM RESTRUCTURING; REPORT REQUIRED. (a) Beginning July 1, 2011, the commissioner of natural resources shall limit all new plantings at the Baudora State Nursery to the planting of stock for research or use on public lands or private conservation lands with permanent protection. Excess plant material may be sold or traded to private wholesale nurseries. (b) By January 15, 2012, the commissioner of natural resources shall submit a budget and financial plan for the state nurseries to the chairs and ranking minority members of the house of representatives and senate committees and divisions with jurisdiction over environment and natural resources policy and finance. The plan shall include a long-term business plan to operate the Baudora State Nursery in a manner that is self-sufficient. The plan shall also include options for the General C.C. Andrews State Nursery. Rep. Denny McNamara, R-Hastings, said that the DNR has indicated that it is no longer fiscally feasible to operate two State Forest Nurseries. DNR officials will likely bring forward a plan to either close the General Andrews Nursery site or significantly restructure the use of the site. Furthermore, the Badoura Nursery will have to deliver a report to legislators outlining a specific plan to operate that site in a break-even or better fashion. The DNR nursery operation has failed to meet the mandate to operate self-sufficiently in 4 of the past 6 years and is on track to use up its remaining reserves in the next several years unless it changes its business plan. During discussion of the bill on the Senate floor, the chair of the Senate Environment Committee, Sen. Bill Ingebrigtsen said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;They have to do a plan to show they can operate profitably and not compete with private sector.â&#x20AC;?

Continued on page 25 AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

the Scoop | NURSERY

Crunch the Numbers to Preserve Plant Passion Career By Vickie Pondell, Bailey Nurseries, Inc. he majority of nursery professionals entered the industry because of one simple reason, the love of plants. In spite of this, in the current economy, business skills, in addition to nursery skills are necessary. Some fear or dread spending the majority of time in front of the computer analyzing spreadsheets and crunching numbers instead of working hands on with the plants. However, this fear needs to be conquered to have profitable businesses so we can continue our passion of working with plants.

One method of running a successful business is using Management Accounting. According to the book, Management Accounting: A Strategic Focus, “Management accounting is a system of measuring and providing operational financial information that guides managerial action, motivates behaviors, and supports and creates the cultural values

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necessary to achieve an organizations strategic objectives.” There are many resources available to learn management accounting including books, seminars, classes at local universities and tech schools, and online instructions and learning. Then the next step is put this information into practice. Cost accounting, the process of determining, evaluating, and calculating costs, is a useful tool to determine the breakeven point, setting prices, the optimal product mix, budgeting, and increasing efficiency. This is not a new concept, in fact in the April 1923 Journal of Farm Economics Henry C. Taylor the Chief of the Bureau of Agricultural Economics writes about “The Objectives in Agricultural Cost Accounting.” Determining the break-even point aids in making financial decisions. One example of a method for determining the breakeven point is a Cost-Volume-Profit (CVP) Analysis. CVP identifies the level of activity needed to avoid losses, achieve

profit targets, plant, and monitor performance. This model calculates the break-even point, the sales volume level for a desired profit by subtracting variable costs multiplied by the number of units produced and fixed costs from revenue generated. This shows the breakeven point in the short run. It assumes costs and revenues only change with the volume produced. In short, the breakeven point would be when the total revenue equals the total cost. TR=TC. The total revenue is the number of units sold multiplied by the sales price. TR=US*SP. The total costs are the sum of the fixed costs and the variable costs multiplied by the number of units produced. TC=FC + (VC*UP). An example would be if 100 shrubs were sold at $5.00 each, the total

"The fear of analyzing spreadsheets and crunching numbers needs to be conquered to have profitable businesses."

Determining the break-even point, helps determine prices for nurseries more effectively than undercutting competitors and pricing the same “across the board.” These two methods may not be the most accurate because product may be sold at a loss, competitors may have different costs, and not all varieties require the identical inputs. Identifying profitable and unprofitable crops or products allow

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businesses to increase profitable items and reduce or eliminate unprofitable items. Of course, all products absorb overhead costs, so eliminating all the unprofitable products is not always the best choice. Budgeting helps allocate resources to the best places. It gives a history of the organizations performance, measures success and creates a “roadmap” for the direction to take. Efficiency is measured and areas that need improvement are identified. Business knowledge, in addition to nursery knowledge, helps the industry thrive. By determining the breakeven point, setting correct prices, selecting the optimal product mix, budgeting, and increasing efficiency, we can continue to work with plants and have flourishing businesses. q ________________________________ Vickie Pondell is a member of the MNLA Nursery Committee and can be reached at vickie.pondell@baileynursery.com.

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the Scoop | PUBLIC RELATIONS

Gardening Trends By Rose Eggert, Minnesota State Horticultural Society ur current economy has had an impact on many gardeners, in how they garden, where they purchase their plants and what they intend to grow. Many are expected to spend less this year than in the past few years due to economic reasons. Unfortunately this year the weather also had an impact on many getting into their gardens early.

Quality plant material remains the primary factor as to where many gardeners make their purchases. Price comes in second. The consumer also appreciates a knowledgeable staff that is available to answer questions and to help them with their plant selections. Offering the consumer a positive shopping experience while at your location may be one reason they return again.

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Many gardeners today are interested in learning to grow their own fruits and vegetables, whether it is in the front yard, backyard, or within a limited amount of space or containers. Saving money, getting a better quality product, better taste and nutrition—all are important reasons for their interest in growing their own food. Offering information on freezing, canning or preserving their food harvest helps complete the experience. Consumers are also interested in what they can do that will have a positive long-term impact on our environment. Information on mulching, composting, rain barrels and also native plant suggestions all are of interest to today’s gardener. Whatever their experience level, gardeners need encouragement so they will succeed. Urge your customers to join a garden club or to get involved with a community gardening project. It’s through relationships with other gardeners that we learn about gardening. Most gardeners are happy to pass on their knowledge to others so they too will learn to love the benefits that gardening can bring to their lives. q ________________________________________________ Rose Eggert is a member of the MNLA Public Relations Committee and can be reached at REggert@northerngardener.org.

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PUBLIC RELATIONS | the Scoop

Arbor Day Poster Contest By Sue Flynn, MNLA Arbor Day Poster Contest Coordinator he kids will be back to school in about a month and it's time to start thinking about the 2012 Arbor Day Poster Contest. The 2012 theme is Trees are Terrific …Inside and Out!

MNLA is the state coordinator for the local poster contest which exists to teach students about the importance of trees to the environment. The contest is open to 5th graders in the State of Minnesota. If you know of a

5th grade art or science teacher, please let them know about this fun and educational contest so they can add it to their classroom plans for the fall or winter. Community activities involving 5th grade students such as girl scout or boy scout troops are also invited to participate. The student who wins the contest will receive: • 2 Unlimited Ride Tickets to Nickelodeon Universe eme Park at the Mall of America • A tree will be donated by an MNLA member and planted on

the school grounds or public property in the winner’s community. • A poster honoring their achievement will be presented to the student and their teacher at the tree planting ceremony. • e top 3 posters will be on display at the 2012 Minnesota State Fair. • Recognition on GardenMinnesota.com. The information packet including an activity guide and lesson plan that correlates with National Standards for fifth grade will be available to download from MNLA.biz in mid September. Please contact Sue at 651-633-4987 or susan@mnla.biz for more information.

AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

the Scoop | PUBLIC RELATIONS

Educate Consumers at the Minnesota State Fair very year, MNLA comes together to showcase the professional green industry to consumers at the Great Minnesota Get-Together. Bill Mielke and the rest of the State Fair Subcommittee lead this charge and many of you donate time and materials toward revitalizing this display garden each summer. This year, we’re joining the “-on-a-stick” movement and offering flower-on-a-stick (see photo)! Not only do these function as a promotion for GardenMinnesota.com and MNLA members, they work as a hand fan. Very nice to have during one of those hot days at the Fair! We’re planning in years to come to take this theme further with ideas like “shrub-on-a-stick”, “paver-on-astick”, “turf-on-a-stick”, and yes, irrigation pros, “sprinkler-on-a-stick”! The mission of the MNLA State Fair Display Garden is to educate consumers about good horticultural practices and encourage them to purchase the products and services of MNLA member firms. Last year MNLA participated in educating the public via The Dirt stage inside the Ag/Hort building. This year, Heidi Heiland will join Jim Calkins in giving talks on topics including horticultural therapy, landscaping for wildlife, and edible gardens, to name a few. The talks last year were well-

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attended, and gave MNLA experts a forum to field questions and direct attendees to the MNLA garden. MNLA appreciates everything the State Fair does to promote horticulture and all of agriculture. The Minnesota State Fair has been a great partner with MNLA in bringing horticultural education to the public. In fact, this year MNLA presented the Fair with a Special Service Award for its long-standing tradition of showcasing horticulture as a segment of the state’s agricultural community. If you haven’t volunteered during the Fair, make this the year you start. It’s a great privilege to pass on your knowledge to the interested public, and besides – you get a free ticket and t-shirt, too! The Volunteer Orientation BBQ is on August 11, and besides getting you ready to help garden visitors, it’s also a great time of networking and enjoying free food in a beautiful garden. Let’s come together to get the word out about our great industry! q

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Arteka Companies

Oak View Nursery Larson Lawnscape, Inc. Sat. Aug. 27 LandSculpt, Inc.

Sun. Aug. 28 Mon. Aug. 29 Tues. Aug. 30 Wed. Aug. 31

Minneapolis Parks & Recreation Rum River Tree Farm S&S Tree Specialists

Bourdeaux Enterprises

Malmborg’s Inc. The Mustard Seed Landscaping & Garden Center

Swanson’s Nursery Consulting

Mickman Brothers, Inc. Rainbow Tree Care

Trio Landscaping

Rainbow Tree Care

Bachman’s Inc. Landscape Renovations

S&S Tree Specialists

St. Croix Tree Service Verbena Design Leslie’s Garden, Inc.

Thurs. Sept. 1

Gertens

Fri. Sept. 2

Linder’s Greenhouses, Garden Center, Flower Marts & Landscaping

Sat. Sept. 3

Larson Lawnscape, Inc.

Rainbow Tree Care

Larson Lawnscape, Inc.

Dundee Nursery & Landscaping Co. Lynde Greenhouse & Nursery

Maddell Companies

Rainbow Tree Care

Hage Concrete Co. Garden Solutions & Design

Sun. Sept. 4 Mon. Sept. 5

Bachman’s

The Mulch Store

Wild Ways To Garden

Maddell Companies

Spectrum Sales AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

the Scoop | GREENHOUSE & HERBACEOUS GROWERS

Pinching Poinsettias By Jesse Hawker, Malmborg's, Inc. t's hard to believe but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time of the year again, time to focus on pinching poinsettias. We have been getting ready for Christmas at Malmborgs since wk 21 (May 25th) propagating unrooted vegetative cuttings. Most Northern growers have planted their rooted poinsettia liners up in July or August depending on the size of pot and if you choose to pinch your plants or leave them unpinched.

Some growers apply Florel at 500ppm 3-5 days before and 5-7 days after pinching. This Florel application leads to more even branching and shorter internodes. To maximize its effectiveness make sure the Florel spray solution has a pH of 4.5-5.0. When applying florel remember to turn off your HAF fans and apply early in the morning or late in the day so it dries slowly for good absorption. The plants should have healthy roots and not be under any heat or moisture stress at the time of the application. The Florel treatments should be done instead of other early growth regulator treatments. Pinching should be done after the roots reach the side of the pot so there

is enough root mass to support the new shoot development. Pinch above the amount of leaves according to the desired amount of branches. Some varieties do not branch as well as others so it is a good idea to pinch 2 nodes higher on those varieties. If the little buds are missing in the leaf axis, branches will not develop so it is a good idea to pinch higher. We typically pinch above 6-8 nodes on our 6â&#x20AC;? crop using one plant per pot. Keep in mind to pinch a little higher on varieties that do not branch as well which typically tend to be certain darker leafed varieties. A medium hard pinch is best removing the leaf that is beginning to unfold and the smaller leaves around it. It is very important to remove top mature leaves right below the pinch to allow sunlight down the stem of the plant where the new shoots will be expanding. This will create stronger connections between the main stem and new breaks. For consistent branching avoid heat stress before and after the pinch by misting and/or shading the plants during the hottest part of the day. It is better to mist the plants rather than to apply too much shade. Poinsettias are often shaded too much and for too long early on in the crop cycles, leading to thin cell walls and stem breakage. Lighting should ideally be around 2500 foot-candles the first week after planting and a week after pinching to reduce stress. Supply higher light levels of around 4000-5000 foot-candles the remaining time until four weeks before finishing. After the pinch, growers should be graphically tracking their crop. Measuring the crop weekly will help the grower make better decisions as to when and how much growth regulator to apply. Many growers apply PGRs too late and not frequently enough. It is usually better to apply lower rates of PGRs more frequently rather then higher rates less frequently to avoid stunting the crop too much. Night time soil temperatures should be around 68 degrees after planting and in the first 3 weeks after pinching. Timely PGR applications along with high light, proper fertilization and optimum temperatures will result in plants that have a healthy root system, short internodes and thick strong branches. Growing a high quality poinsettia crop can be challenging for growers. Pinching is one of the many important steps when growing poinsettias. Paying attention to the small details is crucial to success on a long term crop like poinsettias. q ________________________________________________ Jesse Hawker is a member of the MNLA Greenhouse & Herbaceous Growers Committee and can be reached at jesse@geraniums bygeorge.com.

www.MNLA.biz | AuGuSt 2011

CERTIFICATION | the Scoop

Magic from the Manual: Proper Watering Controls Plant Quality By Dr. Terry Ferriss, Professor of Horticulture, UW-River Falls “

he person who controls the hose, controls the profits" is a guiding principle in the production of horticultural crops. Water management can make or break plant quality and consequently the salability of a crop. Every plant species has an optimum level of moisture to maximize growth. However, it may be necessary to compromise on when the plants are to be watered if several species are being grown or displayed on the greenhouse bench together. Consider plant species, stage of growth, environmental conditions, medium moisture levels and plant appearance to assist you in properly "reading your crop" to determine when it is time to water.

It is helpful to remember that most plants will perform better if they are grown on the dry side. It is always quicker and easier to correct an underwatered situation than it is to rescue an overwatered plant. Let's review the basic principles of watering. Under Watering: When water is not applied frequently or in adequate quantities, the plants will have a hardened appearance. Under watering reduces photosynthesis and overall growth. In addition, the elongation of young cells is reduced, resulting in smaller leaves and shorter stem internodes. In severe cases, wilting, marginal leaf burn, dry patches on the leaves and death may result. Growers frequently refer to plants grown under these conditions as having hard growth, i.e. slow, tight, less vigorous growth. Over Watering: Applying water too frequently will keep the soil pores filled with water which reduces oxygen availability to the roots resulting in a

weaken root system. High water content in the growing medium may produce large leaves, but they will be soft and succulent, which makes them susceptible to high temperature and high light stress. Over watered plants can wilt due to lack of oxygen in the growing medium. They can also have excessively long internodes, chlorotic lower leaves, soft growth, and are more susceptible to nutrient deficiencies. Plants grown under these conditions are frequently referred to as having soft growth, i.e. tall, lush, rapid, elongated, growth that can wilt rapidly. Best Management Irrigation Practices – Best Management Practices (BMP) for greenhouse irrigation includes, but is not limited to the following: 1. Use a Well Drained Growing Medium Good aeration porosity will aid in maintaining a good oxygen to water balance. Greenhouse container media generally has a bulk density of 0.1 0.8 g/cc. 2. Water Thoroughly Under general growing conditions, the root zone should be entirely wetted each time a plant is watered to promote development of deep rooting within the container. Recommendations include creating a 10% leachate with each irrigation to ensure saturation, and to minimize soluble salt accumulation. When using other alternative irrigation strategies to minimize water run-off, evaluate uniformity of moisture within the container, aeration and monitor soluble salts. 3. Knowing When to Water: Never wait to irrigate until the plant wilts. All plant species differ in their

water requirements so "read your crop.” Signs that a plant is approaching water stress include loss of luster of the leaf surface. Plus, a subtle change in leaf color occurs, becoming a bluer or grayer shade of green. The color of the growing medium may also be used to evaluate the irritation status. Peat-based media and most other media, become lighter tan as the medium dries. The weight of the growing medium can also be used to gage irrigation requirements. Lifting the pots to compare the saturated weight to the drying out weight is a useful quick assessment. Allow plants to dry down to 40% to 60% of its original water weight before re-watering. In addition, the “Finger Test” can also be used on potted crops. Insert the pointer finger into the medium and when it is dry to a depth of the middle knuckle, it is time to irrigate. Many plug growers have implemented the "5 Levels of Watering" as a guide to assist employees in their watering practices. Employees are instructed as to what Level of dryness should be observed prior to re-watering the plants. For example, Stage 1 plugs may be kept at Level 4-5 and are then switched to Level 2-3 as they mature. These Levels could be used in water management of potted plants as well as plugs. Level 5 = SWAMPY; free water on surface of medium; medium appears black in color Level 4 = WET; water squeezes out easily; medium appears dark brown in color Level 3 = MOIST; hard to squeeze water out of medium but it still feels moist; brown in color AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

Level 2 = FAIRLY DRY; crumbles when squeezed; medium appears light brown in color Level 1 = DRY; medium pulls from the sides of the cell or pot; medium appears tan in color 4. Select the Proper Time of Day to Irrigate Irrigate so that the plants are turgid and remain turgid during the heat of the day, which is usually from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Avoid irrigating at a time which would leave the plants really wet over night as these conditions can promote disease problems. 5. Keep the Leaves as Dry as Possible A film of water on the leaf surface creates an environment conducive to disease development, especially when going into the cooler, darker evening and night hours. Irrigation systems that minimize leaf wetting will help control diseases. Water early in the day so the leaves have time to dry before darkness to minimize disease development. 6. Adjust Irrigation Relative to the Environment Adjust the frequency of irrigation as changes in the environment occur. This includes light intensity, temperature, air movement and humidity. Many irrigation systems are integrated with computerized environmental control systems that automatically monitor environmental conditions and adjust the irrigation accordingly. Frequently however, the evaluation of environmental conditions is the responsibility of the grower. Conditions that increase the plantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s use and transpiration of water will require the frequency of irrigation to increase; the reverse is also true. For example, with four to five consecutive days of cloudy weather, plants may not need to be watered at all, depending on temperature. Over watering during cloudy weather can lead to soft growth plus physiological and pathological

problems. A hot and extremely windy day in an outdoor situation may dry out plants rapidly and require multiple applications of water to small containers. Summary: Generally for most established plants it is important to let the growing medium dry to 40% to 60% of its original weight before re-watering. This will allow oxygen to reenter the medium, as oxygen is required for root development. It takes much longer for a plant to recover from over watering that from under watering. Therefore, it is better to error on the side of growing plants slightly dry. Applying enough water with each irrigation to ensure total root zone saturation. q ________________________________________________ Terry Ferriss is a member of the MNLA Certification Committee and can be reached at terry.l.ferriss@uwrf.edu. Sample Questions: 1. A grower's crop has long internodes, wilts rapidly between irrigations, is growing rapidly and the lower leaves appear somewhat chlorotic. Which irrigation practice could cause this type of growth? a. watering too much at every irrigation b. watering too frequently c. not watering frequently enough d. not applying adequate water at each irrigation 2. Plants in a retail garden center have been improperly watered. Which condition can be most easily and rapidly corrected? a. under watering b. over watering c. irregular watering e. all are equally diďŹ&#x192;cult to correct 3. A grower is deciding when to re-water a crop. Which statement best reďŹ&#x201A;ects Best Management Practices for greenhouse irrigation? a. Monitor the plants closely and re-water just as they start to wilt regardless of the time of day. b. Re-water the plants every afternoon, late in the day so the plants will not dry out overnight. c. Lift up a few pots to determine the weight and water when they are about 50% lighter than the saturated weight. d. Re-water every morning to ensure plants are well watered going into the heat of the day. 4. T

or F

5. T or F

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www.MNLA.biz | AuGuSt 2011

Over watering is caused by too much water being applied to a containerized plant at one time. Level 2 watering is frequently recommended for Stage 1 plug production.

Answers: 1. B; 2. A; 3. C; 4. F; 5. F

CERTIFICATION | the Scoop

Form a Team to Study for the Exam By Robin Fruth-Dugstad, Rochester Community College arly in my teaching career at Rochester Community and Technical College there were a few students who would attempt the MNLA Certification Robin Fruth-Dugstad exam with very little success. At that time the exam focus was on landscaping so I hadn’t considered taking it. I finally made the decision that I needed to take the exam so that I could help my students prepare for the exam. So I signed up to take the exam and three of my students signed up to take the exam. Wow, now I was really nervous, “What if my students pass and I fail?” We formed a little study group. We spent the majority of the study session practicing woody plant ID. Part of the session was spent reviewing chapters in the manual but each of us was responsible for reading the manual and reviewing on our own as well.

The day of truth came. The student who spent the most time reading, reviewing, and studying the manual received a high passing score, the student who spent an average amount of time reading, reviewing and studying the manual received a low passing score, and the student who spent the least amount of time reading, reviewing, and studying the manual did not pass. That student retook the exam. The student read the manual and passed the exam. Here is the advice I give my students who are preparing for the MNLA Certification exam. • • • • • •

Read the Manual Review the Manual Study the Manual Form a study group Read the Manual Collect leaﬂess woody plant material samples to practice winter ID • Review the plant materials CD provided with the manual • Review Magic From e Manual published in the monthly Scoop and available on-line

• Attend a training session oﬀered by the MNLA Certiﬁcation committee • Read the Manual Oh yah, I received a low passing score on the exam. One of my students scored higher than I did. I only read a couple chapters in the manual. My plant ID skills carried me, I teach all of the plant materials courses offered at RCTC. I learned a great lesson to pass along to my students, READ THE MANUAL. “The Power of We is greater than the Power of Me” is a quote from Phil Jackson, coach for the Chicago bulls during the Michael Jordan era. In 1996 Jackson was named one of the 10 greatest coaches in league history. Forming a study group (team) is very helpful. We have a study group at RCTC, if you live in the Rochester area and are interested in joining our group contact me at robin.fruth-dugstad@roch.edu. q ________________________________ Robin Fruth-Dugstad is a member of the MNLA Certification Committee and can be reached at robin.fruthdugstad@roch.edu.

MNLA Certification Manuals Order at www.MNLA.biz or call 651-633-4987 MNLA Certification Training Friday, January 6 during the Northern Green Expo

CERTIFIED Professional

MNLA Certification Exams January at Hennepin Technical College March at Dakota County Technical College Dates to be announced soon

AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

the Scoop | IRRIGATION

Landscape Irrigation: Luxury or Appliance? By Todd D. Cradit, CIC, CLIA, EPA Irrigation By Design, Inc. t the time this article is written it is 60 degrees and raining. And it is almost July! The economic conditions for the greater green industry continue to be sluggish at best. So it is with these thoughts that I reflect on the businesses of installing and servicing irrigation systems from the perspective of a businessman, not a “dirt plumber.” I keep coming back to the same question; is an irrigation system a “luxury” or an “appliance?”

In the greater picture, taking into account the worldwide human condition, landscape irrigation is almost certainly considered a luxury. For those in many developed nations and most notably, in the urban environment, it is a tool to help mitigate the human footprint. My career in the irrigation industry began in 1990. While it is true that the world is different today than it was in 1990, does that mean the value of a well designed and installed irrigation system has changed? And if it has changed, has it changed for the better? Some obviously good changes have occurred including technological advancements in components. There is now a component-option for nearly any

www.MNLA.biz | AuGuSt 2011

landscape irrigation challenge including controllers that adjust schedules automatically based on daily weather. How are we as an industry choosing to value these components in light of the fact that our behavior dictates the success of the efficiency and reliability of the finished system? No doubt we are all feeling the constraints of today’s marketplace. Influences such as limited amounts of work, continual pressures of the “low bid” process (vs. the lowest QUALIFIED bid), make selling a well designed landscape irrigation system at a profit that a business needs to operate is extremely difficult. The analogy of “luxury vs. appliance” is meant to suggest that the desire to purchase an irrigation system is a key factor in determining the value to the customer. Sure we can lay out the necessary parts and pieces to begin developing “cost.” But many other intangibles need to be considered to finalize a realistic price.

• Time spent meeting with client • Time spent creating design • Likely visits to the site beyond the installation crew; client orientation, programming adjustments, etc. • Company certiﬁcations • Value in supporting a sustainable landscape • Professional experience • Cost of vehicles and equipment – including their replacements • Rent • Taxes • Insurance • Proﬁt Profit? What is that? Profit is that element that allows a business to recapitalize itself; to fund employee benefits; to put the owner’s children through school; to fund your retirement and that of your dedicated employees; perhaps most importantly, profit serves as a measure of how you value your work and yourself.

"Profit is an easy measure of your courage to demonstrate self-worth."

Some of these intangibles include:

So, regardless of the concepts of luxury, appliance, component advancement or occasional changes in economic conditions, your behavior dictates the success of your installations and leaves an imprint upon all others, your self-worth. “Profit” is an easy measure of your courage to demonstrate self-worth. Try it. q ________________________________ Todd Cradit is a member of the MNLA Irrigation Contractors Association and can be reached at toddc@ibdmn.com.

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tHE SCOOP | BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Avoid Personal Liability for Company Obligations By Patrick McGuiness, Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC our limited liability corporation (LLC) can be a great way to protect your personal assets from debts or liabilities that your company may incur. This protection, however, can be lost if your business doesn’t take the proper steps required by the state. Here are some tips to help make sure that you’re getting the most protection possible from your LLC.

Patrick McGuiness

1. Stay Within Your Purpose Most LLC’s have a purpose deﬁned in their Articles. If you are conducting types of business that do not fall within the Company’s stated purpose, you could lose your personal protections. 2. Observe Corporate Formalities Keep your LLC in good standing with the state by ﬁling an annual renewal. is is a one-page form that the Secretary of State sends to the company’s registered

address every year. It’s quick (less than 5 minutes), simple to complete, and it’s free. Also be sure to follow any requirements for records, meetings, or other formalities requiredby the company’s Bylaws and Member Control Agreement, if there is one. 3. Don’t Mix Business and Personal Funds Don’t use business money to pay personal expenses or move money back and forth between your business and personal accounts. e court will presume that if the company can pay your personal expenses, then you can personally pay the company's debts. Make sure you open a separate business checking account for the company. All business expenses and income must flow through this account. Only business expenses should be paid from this account and only business income should be deposited. When you want "personal" money out of your business, you need to either pay out a salary, a dividend, or a proﬁt distribution--all properly documented.

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4. Make Sure Your Company is Adequately Capitalized! Don’t let your company be just an empty shell. If your company has no value to oﬀer to creditors, a judge would be more likely to allow access to your personal assets. Having a liability insurance policy for the company is the easiest way to capitalize, but assets and funds held in the name of the Business also qualify. 5. Follow Record Keeping Requirements. e Minnesota Limited Liability Company Act (MLLCA) governs LLCs in Minnesota. Under this act, an LLC must maintain certain records at its principal oﬃce. e following records are required to be maintained under the MLLCA: a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h.

10.

A current list (name &address) of members, governors and managers. A copy of the articles of organization and any yearly filings with the secretary of state’s office. A current list of each member’s Membership Interest in the Company. A current list (name &address) of each assignee of financial rights and a description of the rights assigned except as related to secured parties. A copy of the Articles of Incorporation (with amendments). Copies of any currently effective Bylaws. Copies of all tax returns for the past 3 years or all tax returns if the business has existed for 3 years or less. Financial Statements required by Minnesota Statute 322B.376, which requires a limited liability company to, among other things, prepare annual financial statements within 180 days after the close of the Company's fiscal year. Please consult Minnesota Statute 322B.376 or your attorney for additional requirements. Records of all reports to members and proceedings of members and the board for the last 3 years. Or all proceedings if the business has existed for 3 years or less. Records pertaining to contributions and contribution agreements of members.

It is very important to keep your business documentation organized. When in doubt, always save documents and seek the advice of your attorney as to whether you should keep them. q ________________________________________________ This article provides general information on business matters and should not be relied upon as legal advice. A qualified attorney must analyze all relevant facts and apply the applicable law to any matter before legal advice can be given. If you would like more information regarding business entities or other legal matters, please contact Zlimen& McGuiness, PLLC at 651-206-3203 or pmcguiness@zmattorneys.com Patrick McGuiness is one of the founding partners of Zlimen& McGuiness, PLLC. His law practice focuses on assisting contractors & other small business owners. He is also part owner of One Call Property Care, LLC a landscaping & property management company.

DNR Nurseries Reined In continued from page 9 The adopted language also opens up markets for private nursery growers by limiting DNR tree sales for use on public lands or lands in permanent protection. Consequently, most private landowners will have to purchase their trees from private growers. “MNLA can be proud that we helped successfully move legislation that was vigorously opposed by the DNR and some forestry organizations,” said MNLA Executive Director Bob Fitch. “While we didn’t succeed in closing the DNR nurseries down completely, we can be pleased that this effort ‘moved the needle’ in dislodging an 80-year-old state institution from its comfort zone, and at the same time, gave private enterprise a chance to prove it can do the job as well or better than government.” Fitch said the forward progress would not have occurred without MNLA Past President Denny McNamara chairing the House Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee. Providing key leadership in the Senate Environment Committee was Sen. John Pederson, R-St. Cloud, co-owner of MNLA member Amcon Block. Pederson introduced the legislation which provided the basis for the final compromise in the omnibus bill. Sen. Bill Ingebrigtsen, R-Alexandria, chair of the Senate Environment & Natural Resources Committee, provided vigorous support. This accomplishment is the result of determined legislative leadership, on-going grassroots efforts, professional lobbying, and the rightness of the cause. Special credit goes to Commercial Seedling Growers Committee Chair Bill Sayward and MNLA President Bert Swanson, as well as all who took part in the Day on the Hill and others who made phone calls and sent emails following legislative alerts. MNLA lobbyist Doug Carnival did outstanding work behind the scenes throughout the entire session. “It’s unfortunate that this issue has divided many of us in the environmental community,” Fitch said. “Looking ahead, MNLA and its commercial seedling growers are committed to working with the DNR and others to ensure that adequate supplies of fairly-priced tree seedlings are available to continue the important job of reforesting Minnesota.” Other provisions of interest in the environment omnibus bill included: • Funding for emerald ash borer biocontrol research and implementation. • Several programs to provide environmental education to youth. • Funds to collect, propagate and plant at-risk native species on protected habitat in south-central Minnesota. Meanwhile, threats to several programs at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture were likely abated in the final budget deal. Programs that potentially had been at risk of curtailment included the nursery inspection program, Gypsy moth slow-the-spread program, EAB rapid response program, and the Minnesota Grown marketing program. q AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

Make sure to set your calendar

2011 BFG Hort Expo August 30th and August 31st, 2011 Earle Brown Heritage Center, Brooklyn Center, MN Tired of the Same Old Pots? Whether you’re looking for seasonal will be custom-cutting any length sets, decorative designs or colorful creations, BFG has the latest of Dramm Colorstorm hoses at the designs, sizes and lowest prices 2011 MN Hort Expo! It's a great you’ve come to expect. Be sure to opportunity to pick up those check out the popular Grower specialty lengths for all those Select Say Anything pots - you can necessary applications!

Stop Digging for Deals! The 2011 MN Hort Expo is a great place to see all of the best products for chemicals, fertilizers and media. We’ve dug up some amazing show specials, including great pricing and terms, so stop searching and visit the Expo!

Check out the excellent speaker line-up! Carolyn Jones - BFG Plant Connection Troy Lucht - Malmborgs/PSI Plants You Must Have in 2012

Dr. Raymond Cloyd Conquering Western Flower Thrips Mixing Pesticides for Top Performance

Michael Tilley/Marla Faver Syngenta Tech Services Spring 2011: What we Learned

Suzanne Wainwright, Buglady Consulting Getting the Most from your Pesticides Biocontrol - What’s Working?

Dr. Roberto Lopez, Purdue University Is Supplemental Lighting Right for You? Non-chemical Height Control Strategies

The Pulse of the Industry How Can Social Media Work For Your Business?

Dr. Hannah Mathers, Ohio State U Weed Control in the Nursery Understanding Fertility in Nursery and Landscape Marshall Dirks, Proven Winners Do your products speak to the ‘new gardener’? Dr. John Erwin, University of MN How to Stay Out of Trouble as a Grower

Kevin Forney, Fine Corp. Things You Have To Know About PGRs Mike Heger, Ambergate Gardens New and Favorite Perennials Steve Risan, Tonkadale Garden Center Secrets of a Successful Garden Center

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Customer Name: Customer #: Address: Email: Telephone #: MNLA Scoop

the Scoop | MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM

August Events & Classes at the Arboretum Arboretum Offers Wine-Making, Cooking Classes & More The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum presents a new series of winemaking classes offering valid and timely research from the University of Minnesota and information from the industry, presented in accessible and enjoyable formats. Participants will meet other winemakers and gain insights into the art of making wine from grapes and other fruits grown in this region. Instructor is U of M Enologist Katie Cook, who has an advanced enology degree from the University of Burgundy. "When we talk about Minnesota winemaking, we have a lot going for us. We are creating varieties that are truly unique to our soil and climate. The term for that is terroir - referring to qualities that are unique to our location. And that's very exciting," said Cook. The Arboretum wine classes are designed for all winemakers, from home enthusiast to seasoned professional. Here's a schedule of wine classes in August: The Chemistry of Wine. Saturday, Aug. 6, 9:30 a.m.-noon. $90 member/$95 non-member, Learning Center. Learn the essentials of the chemistry specific to the making of wine: organic acids, alcohols and volatile compounds, carbohydrates, dry extracts and minerals, nitrogen compounds, phenolic compounds, and varietal aroma. Advanced Winemaking. Saturday, Aug. 20, 9:30 a.m.-noon. $90//$95. Learn what you need to know about harvest and pre-fermentation treatments, de-acidification, enzyme and yeast selection, monitoring fermentations, the influence of temperature and more. Beyond wine-making, the Arboretum offers the following classes and events in August: Authentic Thai Cuisine with Chef Joe Hatch-Surisook Thursday, Aug. 4, 6:30-8:30 p.m. $45-$55. Join Chef Joe of Sen Yai Sen Lek restaurant for a tantalizing Thai menu, with wine tastings.. Saturdays in the Kitchen: Pickling with Global Flair Saturday, Aug. 6, 9-11 a.m. $30-$40. Make exotic pickle recipes from around the globe. Cooking for a Healthy Start Saturday, Aug. 6, 1:30-3:30 p.m. $40-$45. Michelle Horovitz of Urban Baby shows how to make baby food straight from the garden.

www.MNLA.biz | AuGuSt 2011

Seasonal Plates with Lucia Watson Thursday, Aug. 11 6:30-8:30 p.m. $45-$55. Chef/owner of Lucia's Restaurant creates a menu of turkey breast with lemon & basil; couscous salad, fruit crostada & more. Plus wine tastings. Walks for the Curious in August Saturdays, Aug. 13, 20, 27, at 10 a.m. $7.50-$15. Enjoy a nature walk with an Arboretum naturalist. Summer Plein-Air Watercolor Workshop: Bennett-Johnson Prairie Saturday, Aug. 13, 9:45 a.m.-1 p.m. $40-$50. Paint the prairie under the direction of watercolorist Georgia Kandiko. Roots Rhythms Summer Music Series- Locklin Road Sunday, Aug.14, 6-7:30 p.m. Trex Outdoor Deck. This talented local ensemble performs Celtic and folk with a few originals thrown in the mix. Free with gate admission. Third Thursday Happy Hour! Thursday, Aug. 18, 4:30-6 p.m. Arboretum Restaurant. Enjoy wine flights, beer and non-alcoholic beverages, plus a variety of appetizers. (Arboretum admission is free every third Thursday after 4:30 p.m.) Mediterranean Cuisine from the Minnesota Garden with Donatelle Duo Chefs Thursday, Aug. 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m. $45-$55. Joan and David Donatelle create an Italian summer feast with wine. 'Shooting the Light' Photography Symposium Friday, Aug. 26, 3:30-9:30 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 27, 5:30 a.m.-2 p.m. $140-$155 (includes dinner, breakfast and lunch). Instructor John Pennoyer demonstrates how the to capture the beauty of natural light in the landscape. To register for classes, visit www.arboretum.umn.edu or call 952-443-1422. q ________________________________________________ The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is located 9 miles west of Interstate 494 on Highway 5 in Chanhassen. The largest public garden in the Upper Midwest and a premier northern arboretum, it is part of the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences at the University of Minnesota. Open 363 days a year. Admission: $9 adults; free for ages 15 & younger, free for members.

GREEN EXPO | the Scoop

Calling all Plant Lovers! New Plant Forum Back for 2012 Green Expo he Green Expo will bring back a fan favorite in January 2012 – The New Plant Forum. This exciting session is for those who are all about plants! Participants will hear about cutting edge plants introduced within the past several years. Only plants that are readily available in the trade will be presented.

application should be returned to MNLA Associate Director Cassie Larson by e-mail at cassie@mnla.biz or via fax at 651-633-4986. A committee of industry professionals will pick the best of the applications to be presented at the Northern Green Expo. Given time constraints, it’s possible that not all applications will be presented.

So, we’re putting out a call to all MNLA members…do you have a new plant that you’d like to feature? Read on to find out how you can participate…

What is the application deadline? Applications for the New Plant Forum must be submitted no later than September 1, 2011. e committee will then review all applications and notify you of acceptance by September 30, 2011. Do you want more information and speciﬁc details about the session? Find out complete details online at www.NorthernGreenExpo.org – click the Education tab at the top of the page. q

How do I apply to participate? Individuals who want to participate in the New Plant Forum should complete the New Plant Forum application which can be found online at www.NorthernGreenExpo.org. The

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We have coverage for growing stock!

Henry Gallagher, Commercial Specialist 952/448-3800 h.gallagher@casualty-assurance.com

Casualty Assurance of Chaska, LLC 101 West 3rd Street Chaska, MN 55318 AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

August 17, 2011 | 8:00am—5:00pm | Roseville Skating Oval, Roseville

This class provides 8 hours of continuing education credits toward the Power Limited Technician (PLT) license, with material speciﬁcally oriented toward the irrigation specialist. The 8 hour class will contain 2 clock hours of speciﬁc National Electrical Code (NEC) training; and 6 hours of technical training. The 6 hours of technical training will include: Components of a Two–Wire System; Wire Connections and Grounding; Controllers and Operating Systems; System Troubleshooting; Component and Accessory Troubleshooting; and Locating Equipment.

October 12, 2011 | 10:00am—3:30pm | Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul

Equipment, supplies and education to help you gear up for the next snow season! Come for an hour or stay all day. Exhibits will be open from 10am—3:30pm. Education seminars will include: Bidding & Estimating Snow Removal, Mike Anderson, Snow and Ice Pros, Inc. Understanding Chemical Deicers 101, Scott Koefed, Cargill Salt How to Make Your Operation as Eﬃcient as Possible, Mike Anderson, Snow and Ice Pros, Inc. What Are Your Legal Responsibilities When it Comes to Snow/Ice Removal? – Liability and Contracts, Patrick McGuiness, Zlimen & McGuiness

November 18, 2011 | 9:00am—3:45pm | Continuing Education Center, University of MN, St. Paul

MNLA and the Minnesota Turf and Grounds Foundation (MTGF) are excited to again present this Pesticide Recertiﬁcation session. The session will be applicable to those seeking to gain recertiﬁcation credit for category A (general) and E (turf and ornamentals). There will be two tracks available at this session, one for those interested in turf related topics and one for those interested in woody plant topics as they pertain to pesticides. A more complete schedule is available online at www.MNLA.biz.

December 12, 2011 | 12:00pm—2:00pm | MNLA Oﬃce, Roseville

Learn while you eat. And it’s FREE! Lunch: Please bring your bagged/boxed lunch and join us for this seminar/discussion (lunch is not included with the event). Growers and garden center professionals are invited to attend. This will be a short presentation and informal discussion led by Dr. John Erwin from the University of Minnesota and Tzanko Matov from Bailey Nurseries, Inc. Ideas will be exchanged on the use, application, and results of using plant growth regulators on woody plant material. Visit www.MNLA.biz for registration and deails for these and other programs! Questions? Call 651.633.4987.

Sponsorships are available for these seminars. Call Betsy at 952-903-0505 or e-mail betsy@pierreproductions.com. 30

www.MNLA.biz | AuGuSt 2011

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT | the Scoop

Clean Water Summit Focuses on Trees Green Infrastructure for Clean Water: Trees, Roots, and Their Role in Stormwater Management rees, from their roots deep within the earth to their leaves high in the sky, provide more than just shade. They also provide economic, social, and environmental benefits to our communities. The 2011 Clean Water Summit will focus on trees and the role they play in protecting and achieving clean water.

Featured presentations will address the technical aspects as well as policy and planning issues related to using trees in stormwater management, including current treatment practices, operations and maintenance concerns, assessment tools and methodologies, and the multiple community benefits trees provide. The conference will be Thursday, Sept. 8 from 8:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. at the MacMillan Auditorium at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Registration is $50 for Arboretum members and $60 for non-members. See this website for more information: www.arboretum.umn.edu/greeninfrastructurefor cleanwater.aspx Who Should Attend? Local, regional and state and regional oﬃcials City engineers and public works staﬀ Community planners Conservationists and ecologists Green industry professionals Natural resource professionals Foresters Environmental planners Land use managers Real estate brokers Horticulturists Biologists Elected and appointed local citizens Policy and decision makers Concerned public and members Students Featured Speakers Mark Seeley, Ph.D. - Host; University of Minnesota; Minnesota Public Radio David Nowak, Ph.D. - Keynote speaker; Urban Forest Researcher - USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station

Gary Johnson, Ph.D. - Keynote speaker; Professor, Urban and Community Forestry, Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota Summit Highlights Concurrent Session 1 Performance, Design and Engineering - The Technical Aspects of Trees in Stormwater Management 1. Design Criteria 2. Operation & Maintenance 3. Pollutant Removal & Contributions from Trees Concurrent Session 2 Policy and Planning - Tree Inventory, Assessment and Protection 1. Tools for Inventory and Assessment 2. Stormwater Credits for Trees 3. Tree Protection and Ordinances Tree City Panel A mix of 3-4 local elected leaders, city administrators, public works directors, and planners will offer their insights, experiences, and articulate different perspectives about the use of trees in their communities to help achieve clean water goals and sustainable, vibrant neighborhood and green streetscapes. q

MTGF Field Day to Include Discussion of Imprelis Problems he Minnesota Turf and Grounds Field day will be held on St. Paul campus on Sept. 15. This year’s field day will have a grounds and turf track. Grounds and turf will start field day together discussing issues related to the herbicide Imprelis. Grounds track will move through campus on a plant walk and a research update at the TRE Nursery. Turf track will move to TROE Center to hear graduate students and professors discuss variety trials, salt tolerant turfgrass evaluations, drought tolerant species/cultivars and pesticide runoff update. More information can be found at mtgf.org. q

AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

! SHOOTOUT

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MNLA FOUNDATION | the Scoop

SHOOTOUT

MNLA Shootout Wednesday, September 21, 2011 – 11:00 am

Bring a friend! All are welcome to this event. • Door Prizes And Raffles • Flurry Contest • Chance To Win A Top-Of-The-Line Gun Proceeds Benefit Student Scholarships “We had a great time last year. Game Unlimited Sporting and Hunt Club have a great club and a beautiful course to shoot sporting clays and 5 stand. We look forward to doing it again this year! “ Dan Shackleton, Esch Construction Supply

“Great shooting - I especially enjoyed the rabbit station; they are tough to hit when they are bouncing. Fun crowd and awesome steaks over an open ﬁre charcoal grill. Really hit the spot after shooting. You can't beat the price for 12 stations and 2 meals. Next best thing to hunting!” Bill Mielke, Wilson's Nursery, Inc.

• Wreath Rings • Specialty Rings • Wire Baskets Increase your plant and hardscape sales with MNLA’s Outdoor Living Catalogs. Titles include Trees & Shrubs, Perennials, and Ideas for Outdoor Living. Visit MNLA.biz or call Sue at 651-633-4987.

• AND MORE!

AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

Ornamental Grass Collection Open House at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Wednesday, October 12, 2011 our the Ornamental Grass Collection and see over 30 new grasses and sedges that have been planted this year. View the collection at the peak of fall color for native grasses such as switchgrass, Indiangrass, and prairie dropseed. Compare 30 different miscanthus, along with several new annual and perennial pennisetum, and purple moorgrass.

The ornamental grass collection open house is Wednesday, October 12th from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information contact Mary Meyer, meyer023@umn.edu; 952-443-1447. q

www.MNLA.biz | AuGuSt 2011

SAFETY | the Scoop

Accident Investigations… Share Info & Save an Injury By Wayne Peterson CSP – The Builders Group, Sr. Loss Control Representative here is nothing good about an accident other than sharing incident information to prevent another person from being injured. As an employer we must always encourage employees to inform the supervisor of any and all cases on the day of the incident! Most of all, encourage the reporting of near miss cases.

Here are some tips on accident investigations. First and foremost: 1. Care for the injured. 2. Call 911 or drive the injured to medical care. 3. Make sure the site is safe and secure. Start the incident investigation at the location 1. Notify your oﬃce and your insurance company claims department if it is a serious injury. 2. Supervisors need to complete a “Supervisors Accident Report” which is part of your AWAIR/Safety Program. As you do a follow up on the incident: • Stick to the facts! • What occurred? • Why did it occur? • Suggest corrective action. • Take photo(s) if possible - DO NOT TAKE PHOTOS of injured people! • Note tools or equipment if it was involved in the accident. If it’s dangerous, remove it from service and “Tag it” Out of Service - Do Not Use”. • Save those items until your insurance company claims department have discussed the case with you.

• Conduct interviews as soon as possible and document findings. • Communicate with the office personnel. Office/Management If serious, call your insurance company claims department immediately. • Go to the site and follow up. • Complete First Report of Injury ASAP, send to your insurance company claims department within 3 days. • Record case on OSHA 300 form. • Coordinate return to work options and keep your insurance company claims department up to date with changes. • If you have a safety question, call your insurance companies safety/loss control department. OSHA • Notify MN OSHA immediately if it is a fatality or accident where 3+ people are seriously hurt: 1800-342-5354, after hours 1-800-321-6742 (In these cases MN OSHA will investigate). • Record incident on OSHA 300 form. Why? • e First Report of Injury needs to be to your insurance company claims department to initiate the claim and proper care. Claims can be denied if not reported on time. • Companies can be significantly fined by the MN Dept of Labor and Industry for late claim reporting.

• Ensures proper medical treatment immediately before things get worse. • Medical cases and those cases for “reporting purpose” covers the situation in case things change. • In near miss cases, we can learn from these cases, no one’s hurt and we can use the information to improve safety. What’s better than that! Why Have an Accident…Prevent It!!! This is really the purpose of most safety efforts, to reduce exposures and risk taking! Here are some thoughts: • Don’t allow “risky” work practices and have a policy to take action, don’t just walk by! • Pre-plan safety with work. • Have the correct tools and equipment. • Take less risk! Most accidents occur by taking too many chances. • If you doubt the work isn’t safe, DON’T DO IT! • Keep up on training and toolbox meetings. q ________________________________ The Builders Group (TBG) is a self-insured workers’ compensation insurance fund that has been protecting Minnesota’s construction industry for more than 10 years. For more information, go to: www.tbgmn.com.

AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

the Scoop | GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Japanese Barberry: Valuable Landscape Plant Or Noxious Weed? By Tim Power, MNLA Consultant; Laura Van Riper, MN DNR Terrestrial Invasive Species Coordinator; and Jim Calkins, Minnehaha Creek Watershed District & MNLA tatus of MN Department of Agriculture Review and a Request for Industry Input

Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii DC.) is one of 13 plant species chosen by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) Noxious Weed Advisory Committee (NWAC) for a formal risk assessment in 2011. The NWAC is an advisory committee to the Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture, who has sole authority to list or de-list species on MDA’s Noxious Weed Lists. The possible designations include: Prohibited-Eradicate Noxious Weeds, Prohibited-Control Noxious Weeds, Restricted Noxious Weeds, and Specially Regulated Plants (for explanations, see http://www.mda.state.mn.us/plants/badp lants/noxious list.aspx). The NWAC risk assessment process and a timeline of activities in Minnesota were the topic of a Scoop article in May 2011 [MDA’s Noxious Weed Advisory Committee (NWAC) to Review Japanese Barberry; The Scoop 34(5):38-49]. All of the activities and products of the NWAC are available for review at http://mnnoxiousweeds.wikispaces.com. The risk assessment used by the NWAC, officially known as the Plant Risk Assessment & Management Protocol for Minnesota, was developed in 2002-2003 and was used to review and update the existing lists of Minnesota Noxious Weeds in 2010. The resulting changes included the removal of hemp, bull thistle, and perennial sowthistle; the addition of Oriental bittersweet, Grecian foxglove, yellow starthistle, common tansy, spotted 36

www.MNLA.biz | AuGuSt 2011

knapweed, field bindweed, and wild parsnip; and the reclassification of poison ivy as a Specially Regulated Plant instead of a Prohibited Noxious Weed. Japanese barberry is the first of several plants on the NWAC’s review list that have major economic significance for the nursery/landscape industry. The Risk Assessment Protocol is based on a series of Yes/No question boxes and the answers direct the reviewer to additional questions and ultimately a recommendation to list/or not and which list (if any) the plant should be added to. The draft Japanese Barberry Risk Assessment, dated May 27, 2011, can be found at http://mnnoxiousweeds.wikispaces.com/ RA+JBar. This draft document was subsequently discussed at a NWAC meeting on June 7 and the authors (Tim, Laura, and Jim) were asked to continue gathering additional information through the summer to aid in further discussions this fall. In this article, we will guide you through the risk assessment process completed so far. The reviewers generally agree on the outcomes for Boxes 1-8B of the risk assessment protocol, but remain uncertain about the remaining questions. The draft barberry risk assessment itself includes much more detail than discussed here, along with references that substantiate the answers to the questions included in the risk assessment protocol. Questions We Agree On Box 1 – The Plant Species or Genotype is Non-Native. Yes. Japanese barberry is non-native to the United States. Following the Plant Risk Assessment & Management Protocol, this answer directs reviewers to Box 3. Box 3 – The Plant, or a Related Species, is Documented as Being a Problem Elsewhere. Yes. The US

Forest Service and many states consider Japanese barberry to be invasive. Massachusetts and New Hampshire have banned the plant and the Connecticut Nursery and Landscape Association has begun a voluntary phase-out of 25 heavy-seeding Japanese barberry cultivars. Go to Box 6. Box 6 – The Plant Has the Capacity to Establish and Survive in Minnesota. Yes. Japanese barberry has been commonly planted as a landscape plant in Minnesota and plants and seedlings are successful horticulturally throughout Zone 4. Although there appears to be some cultivar specificity, the species is also able to survive in Zone 3. Go to Box 7. Box 7 – The Plant Has the Potential to Reproduce and Spread in Minnesota. Yes. Japanese barberry can spread vegetatively by layering through the rooting of branches in contact with the ground. Japanese barberry seed is cold-hardy and can be spread by birds and mammals. There are no known natural controls to effectively prevent its spread. Go to Box 8. Box 8, Questions A & B – Does the Plant Have Toxic Qualities, and Does the Plant Cause Significant Financial Losses Associated with Decreased Yields, Reduced Crop Quality, or Increased Production Costs? No answers to both these questions lead the reviewer to Box 8, Question C. Questions Where Uncertainty Still Exists Box 8, Question C – Can the Plant Aggressively Displace Native Species Through Competition? Yes, in at least some parts of Minnesota. Japanese barberry forms dense thickets according to studies on the Eastern Seaboard and MN DNR and MDA observations in

Minnesota. Tim Power has documented Japanese barberry thickets beginning to form at a DNR-mapped (2006) site in Afton State Park, with 50%+ canopy cover in the worst location. Jim Calkins has observed scattered volunteer barberry plants in upland areas on the south shore of Dutch Lake in Mound. Areas at Afton State Park surrounding the worst infestation have individual Japanese barberry plants surviving and/or thriving, with increasing density nearer to the likely mother plant. Most of the Japanese barberry infestation at Afton is in heavily wooded ravines, not in areas of perennial grasses. Tim Power also visited DNR-mapped (2009 and 2006, respectively) sites at St. Croix Savanna Scientific & Natural Area (SNA) in Bayport and Frontenac State Park. There was no increase in Japanese barberry infestation levels at those sites since the DNR reports. The NWAC has not come to a conclusion relative to how well Japanese barberry might be able to naturalize in Minnesota ecosystems including prairie ecosystems and in Zone 3. Though most reports seem to relate to woodland areas, the MN DNR indicates that it does invade prairies in Minnesota and others have reported invasions in prairies, meadows, abandoned fields, and open woodlands; in all cases, however, specific documentation is not provided. If yes, go to Box 9; if no, go to Question 8D.

Box 9 – Does the Plant Species Have Clearly Defined Benefits That Outweigh Associated Negative Impacts? There are strong differences of opinion on this question. Japanese barberry has many great landscape qualities – it is a versatile, tough, and superior plant, with horticultural characteristics unavailable in any other species and deer resistance par excellence. On the other hand, Japanese barberry is also seen as an emerging threat in natural areas, pastures, and woodlots that may have similar consequences in Minnesota as the nasty infestations in Eastern states. Go to Question 9A. Box 9, Question A – Is the Plant Currently Being Used or Produced and/or Sold In Minnesota? Yes. Japanese barberry is currently produced and sold in Minnesota in significant quantities. See draft Barberry Risk Assessment for details. Go to Question 9B. Box 9, Question B – Is the Plant an Introduced Species and Can Its Spread be Effectively and Easily Prevented or

Controlled? No. The spread of Japanese barberry cannot be easily prevented or controlled once it is introduced. Offspring of cultivars (such as purple or yellow-leaved forms) can be green; making it difficult to tell which cultivar was a parent of a naturalized barberry plant (see draft barberry risk assessment for references). However, there are cultivars with low seed production which may, or may not (analyses vary), be less likely to be invasive. Questions raised included: What level of seed production is considered safe? Given the high viability of barberry seed and that non-green cultivars can produce wild-type offspring (up to 20%), is there documentation that cultivars that exhibit low levels of seed production are not likely to be a threat? The Connecticut Nursery and Landscape Association implemented a voluntary phase-out of 25 heavy-seeding Japanese barberry cultivars beginning in 2010. See http://www.flowersplantsinct.com/ invasive_index.htm for cultivar lists. It is time consuming and expensive to control the spread of woody species once

Box 8, Question D – Can the Plant Hybridize With Native Species Resulting in a Modified Gene Pool and Potentially Negative Impacts on Native Populations? No. While a species of barberry is native to the U.S. (American or Allegheny barberry, Berberis canadensis), it is not native in Minnesota. Go to Question 8E. Box 8, Question E – Does the Plant Have the Potential to Change Native Ecosystems (Adds a Vegetative Layer, Affects Ground or Surface Water, Etc.)? Yes. At the peak of invasion, Japanese barberry adds a vegetative layer and has been shown to influence soil pH and nitrogen levels. See draft Barberry Risk Assessment for details. Go to Box 9.

AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

they are widely distributed. Methods for Japanese barberry control are similar to those for buckthorn or other invasive woody species – very time and labor intensive. Go to Question 9D. Box 9, Question D – Is a NonInvasive, Alternative Plant Material Commercially Available That Could Serve the Same Purpose as the Plant of Concern? Sterile cultivars of Japanese barberry are under development at the University of Connecticut, but the timeline for production is still several years away. Dr. Alan Smith at the University of Minnesota is also conducting sterility research on a number of woody plants including Japanese barberry, but results are years away as well. There are a number of websites referenced in the draft Barberry Risk Assessment that suggest Japanese barberry alternatives. Many of these alternatives offer some of the characteristics that make Japanese barberry such a good horticultural plant, though many of the listed alternatives would not be hardy in Zone 4 or 3. If yes, go to Box 10; if no, go to Box 9E. Box 9, Question E – Does the Plant Benefit Minnesota to a Greater Extent Than the Negative Impacts Identified at Box 8? Depends on who you ask; see discussion for Box 9. Continued

research on non-invasive selections of Japanese barberry and on alternative species may help bridge this divide. If yes, go to Box 11; if no, go to Box 10. Box 10 – Should the Plant Species Be Enforced as a Noxious Weed to Prevent Introduction and/or Dispersal; Designate as Prohibited or Restricted? Again, depends on who you ask; uncertain and remains to be determined. Go to Question 10A. Box 10, Question A – Is the Plant Currently Established in Minnesota? Yes. The USDA NRCS Plants Database and other sources list infestations for several eastern Minnesota counties. EDDMaps (Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System, University of Georgia - Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health; http://www.eddmaps.org/google/index.cf m?sub=3010) shows confirmed infestations in Minnesota (mostly by the MN DNR), including geographic coordinates, maps, satellite images, terrain, and topography for listed sites. This is the database Tim Power used to confirm infestations at St. Croix Savanna SNA, Frontenac State Park, and Afton State Park. Go to Question 10B. Box 10, Question B – Does the Plant Pose a Serious Human Health Threat? No. See draft Barberry Risk Assessment for information on an

interesting relationship between areas of heavy Japanese barberry infestation and increased populations of black-legged ticks, a carrier of Lyme disease. Go to Question 10C. Box 10, Question C – Can the Plant Be Reliably Eradicated or Controlled? See draft Barberry Risk Assessment for details and references. On a statewide basis, eradication would be difficult. Additionally, required eradication would be very unpopular since Japanese barberry has been widely planted in managed landscapes statewide. If yes, list as a Prohibited Noxious Weed; if no, list as a Restricted Noxious Weed. Box 11 – Should the Plant Species Be Allowed in Minnesota Via a Species-Specific Management Plan; Designate as Specially Regulated? Listing Japanese barberry as Specially Regulated Plant would require a management plan for the species statewide, affecting both future sales and existing plantings in managed landscapes. If a management plan were to require removal of heavy-seeding cultivars, large numbers of existing plantings would need to be dealt with. Listing Japanese barberry as a Specially Regulated Plant has been questioned as a valid option given that birds and other animals serve as effective vectors for seed dispersal to new areas.

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www.MNLA.biz | AUGUST 2011

Japanese barberry demonstrating its invasive potential in natural areas at Afton State Park.

So, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the current status of our review of Japanese barberry. As you can see, there is reason for concern and it is a complicated issue. No decision relative to listing Japanese barberry as a noxious weed in Minnesota has been made. The Noxious Weeds Advisory Committee is continuing to collect information on Japanese barberry and the potential for this species to become invasive in Minnesota and would welcome industry input. The Noxious Weed Advisory Committee is interested in understanding Japanese barberry and its potential for invasiveness in Minnesota better and in working with the nursery and landscape industry and land managers to find acceptable solutions. We would like to take this opportunity to ask you for constructive input which we promise will be considered as the NWAC continues its discussions about potentially listing Japanese barberry as a noxious weed in Minnesota. The NWAC recognizes the complicated nature of this discussion and is committed to a deliberative and careful review. You may email your comments to Tim Power at timpower@powerconsults.com. q

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GR EN E

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THE OR R

MEMBERSHIP | the Scoop

Renew Membership Online, Drive Traffic to Your Company t is now easier than ever to renew • Colored background your membership online! Go to • Full company description MNLA.biz, login in the upper right • Listing floats to the top of searches corner, then click “Membership • Larger type for company name Renewal” in the left column. This year, • Logo or photo upload (maximum you can also save 10% on your size: 180w x 150h pixels) membership dues by Example of enhanced listing appearance requesting a quote on workers’ compensation insurance from TBG! Email mary@mnla.biz for a quote form. New! Purchase a powerful enhanced directory listing when you renew and drive more traffic to your business from GardenMinnesota.com. The new enhanced listing is available at an introductory offer of $40, and includes these upgrades:

• Graphics for map, contact, and website You can purchase an enhanced listing in the Store on MNLA.biz or when you renew your membership online. Just look for “Enhanced Directory Option” during your renewal process. q

Never signed in to MNLA.biz before? Simply click “Forgot your password.” and if you have an email address on file with MNLA it will step you through the process. Need help? Call 651-633-4987.

Drawing Winner ongratulations to Tim McNeill, McNeill Landscape for winning the $100 gas card at Holiday Station Stores

An email was sent to all MNLA members to encourage them to renew their membership online. All members who renewed their membership online before June 15th were entered into a drawing to win the Holiday gas card. There were 170 members who were entered into the drawing and found it easier than ever to renew their membership online! Thank you to all members who have renewed to date. MNLA truly appreciates your support. Send any comments or suggestions that you may have regarding your membership to mary@mnla.biz or call 651-633-4987. q AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

the Scoop | GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Work Together With Pride for Positive Results By Jack MacKenzie, North Oaks Golf Club pon the staff dining table set two boxes. Awaiting the contents of these packages is my crew, sitting in a semi circle; quiet, fidgeting, perhaps even reflective. The morning meeting is about to begin. With happy heart I praise my team for their hard efforts over the past few days. Box number one is opened and passed around, its content of donuts with sprinkles, frosting, glaze or even bare naked, distributed as a thank you for a job well done and incentive for future positive performance. A jelly filled Bismarck for super cleaning the bathrooms, a gooey caramel bun for killing a pesky varmint or perhaps the coveted bear claw is grabbed in thanks for catching a potentially destructive mechanical issue. Well received, our discussion broadens to encompass a wide variety of topics. Equipment maintenance and driving habits, safety, player respect, community courtesy, gas mixing ratios and cleanliness take top priority during the beginning of the discussion. For the most part, all is good and the moderation easy as I enlighten my crew as to the expectations I have for the season ahead. Unfortunately the discourse takes a dramatic turn for the worse.

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The previous week was very hard upon the trees at North Oaks Golf Club. Trees planted by God long before the course was built as well as new material installed just last summer; complete with beautiful wood chip mulch. It wasn’t a storm that caused this arboriculture aberration. It wasn’t insect, disease, drought or excessive moisture that negatively impacted the woody specimens, many of which I planted myself over the last 26 seasons. Nope, the mutilation was done by my staff of wonderful yet sometimes inattentive green keepers. To remedy any future harm, box number two was opened and the contents placed upon the table for display. Six, 180 degree fully adjustable Wolfgarten hand operated grass clippers were laid in a neat roll, much to the chagrin and astonishment of my employees. Model number Ri-LL, these exceptionally sharp manual tools were discussed as a new type of incentive program to be implemented in the following days should any more trees be rammed, line trimmed or mysteriously injured by the green staff. If my capable assistant, Justin Bicek, or I bore witness to any staff-created anomaly, everyone on the crew will have a turn at hand clipping around our ponds, trees, hardscape and flower beds for a minimum of three hours. Chaka, chaka. Chaka, chaka. With clipper in hand I looked around the room and shared a final deep thought. “If we all work together with pride in an exceptional finished product, we can have a great summer. Those with experience help the rookies. Those new to a job, ask questions often. Through a common goal, diligent attitudes and clear communication, we can create an amazing golf course and have a whole lot of fun in the process.” Upon my desk set two more tools for the elicitation of positive results from my legislators. Left alone they sit and collect dust. Put into use with my deft finger tips and golden tongue I can perform magic. It is the “put into use” portion of the equation that often gets overlooked in the hustle of daily life. It is a well known fact that representatives rarely get any input from their constituents except perhaps during the election cycle or when addressing key issues. No news from the ranks means that the politician can wander along at their own pace and pretty much do anything they want…often to our disappointment! Tower one upon my desk helps me to manage our irrigation and tower two is my communication and data mainframe. I am and have been in direct contact with my state representatives, as well as national figures. As simple as a quick email or a more elaborate response utilizing the MNLA legislative alert system, I can contact any or every one of my reps to let them know how I feel. Quick, painless and typically I receive a response in a few days. However, it did take a note or two for them to pick me up on the radar screen and now I get quick returns. For the most prompt attention drop that you are a constituent, either business or residential in their district, that usually snaps their head as they are always interested in your or your neighbor’s vote.

The other tool I have at my disposal is the time tested telephone. Several times I have called my political leaders and shared a piece of my mind. Almost always available, I have never not spoken with him or her unless it was just to refer a message. Each discussion was on point and I felt very good that they heard my concerns or suggestions. Both positive and negative messages can be relayed using the computer and phone system. When was the last time you had any relationship with your legislature beyond voting every other year? Or perhaps you didn’t vote? Or perhaps you were not impacted by the ‘shut down’? Or perhaps you are so disenchanted with the system that your ambivalence shines through? Or perhaps you are intimidated? Or perhaps you don’t know who to contact? Or perhaps this message is falling on deaf ears? Or perhaps I have shamed you into getting activated to tell your representatives how you feel about an issue; any issue big or small. Begin a simple wave of action by participating in the legislative alerts. Follow up with an email and if you really want to be heard, make a phone call. The thrust being, you have tools to create incentive opportunities if you want a response. Just like a lemon custard delight or the sound of hand clippers, incentives get results. You just need to give them in order to receive their benefits. q ________________________________________________ Jack MacKenzie is a member of the MNLA Government Affairs Committee and can be reached at jmackenzie426@msn.com.

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AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

the Scoop | AWARDS

N State Fair! See us at thStereMet Across from Cosgrovee 4H Building th

Nominations Open for 2011 Friend of the Environment Award and Todd Bachman Award B3200

$0Down & O% Financing for 5 Years A.P.R.

Summertime is here and so are the savings! Right now get long-term, low-rate financing on top-quality Kubota equipment, including B Series compact tractors. Hurry! Offer ends September 30, 2011.

*$0 down, 0% A.P.R. financing for terms up to 60 months on purchases of select new Kubota equipment from available inventory at participating dealers through 9/30/2011. Example: A 60-month monthly installment repayment term at 0% A.P.R. requires 60 payments of $16.67 per $1,000 borrowed. 0% A.P.R. interest is available to customers if no dealer documentation preparation fee is charged. Dealer charge for document preparation fee shall be in accordance with state laws. Only Kubota and select Kubota performance-matched Land Pride equipment is eligible. Inclusion of ineligible equipment may result in a higher blended A.P.R. Not available for Rental, National Accounts or Governmental customers. 0% A.P.R. and low-rate financing may not be available with customer instant rebate (C.I.R.) offers. Financing is available through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A., 3401 Del Amo Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 9/30/2011. See us for details on these and other low-rate options or go to www.kubota.com for more information.

ominations are now being accepted for the fourth annual Todd Bachman Award for Innovation in Horticultural Business. Created by the University of Minnesota, MNLA, and the MNLA Foundation, the award annually recognizes a young individual whose innovation in private enterprise has positively influenced one or more horticulture and/or green industry businesses in the region. The award recipient will receive a plaque and will be recognized in trade and consumer publications. In addition, the MNLA Foundation will make a $1,000 cash award in the recipient’s name to his or her alma mater.

Nominations are also open the MNLA Friend of the Environment Award , which honors an MNLAaffiliated company or individual for outstanding environmental efforts, a personal commitment to environmental protection and enhancement, or demonstrated leadership on a specific environmental issue in their field of work. Both applications are now available online at www.MNLA.biz. If you have any questions, please read all the details at www.MNLA.biz, or call 651-633-4987. q

landscapers, contractors, garden centers Need information on environmental topics?

Save 5¢ on every gallon purchased at SuperAmerica. Save 4.5¢ on every gallon purchased at Holiday Stationstores. Monitor your mileage, gas usage, and vehicle maintenance more effectively. No annual fee!

Check out the Sustainable Environment Resources on MNLA.biz! Titles include Rain Barrels, Permaculture, Business Energy Efficiency, Low Input Lawns, Native Plants, and more resources are coming soon! Compiled and reviewed by

the MNLA Sustainable Environment Committee

www.MNLA.biz | AuGuSt 2011

the Scoop | GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

MNLA Hosts Tour for Sen. Franken he Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association hosted a tour for U.S. Sen. Al Franken on Saturday, June 18, as way to introduce the green industry to him. Our time with him was short, so we were fortunate to be able to expose him to a great breadth of the industry at the Bachman’s Inc. operation in Lakeville/Farmington. This location includes retail, wholesale nursery production, greenhouse production, and rewholesale of plants and rock/concrete landscape materials.

During the tour, MNLA leaders discussed the challenges the industry is facing in the current economic cycle, national water policy issues, the

Left to right: MNLA/ANLA Past President Dale Bachman, Bachman’s Inc.; MNLA Board member Tim Malooly, Irrigation By Design Inc.; Sen. Franken; MNLA Executive Director Bob Fitch; Bachman’s Vice President Don Swenson; MNLA Board member Scott Frampton, Landscape Renovations Inc.; MNLA Garden Center Committee Vice Chair John O’Reilly, Otten Bros. Nursery & Landscaping; ANLA staff representative Kellee Magee; and Bachman’s Inc. Vice President John Daniels.

continuing need for immigrant workers in labor-intensive and/or seasonal industries; the problems for agriculture in the current e-verify bill under discussion in D.C.; and the frustration with the constant changes and barrage of unworkable provisions to the H-2A and H-2B visa programs in the last several years. We thanked him for his efforts on immigration reform, including his legislation to provide humane care for children of undocumented workers who are detained by authorities. Sen. Franken asked good questions and was sympathetic to the economic and labor issues the green industry faces. Special thanks are extended to Dale Bachman and John Daniels of Bachman’s for their gracious assistance in facilitating the tour. q MNLA Government Affairs Committee Chair Tim Malooly visits with Sen. Franken and Franken aide Katherine Blauvelt. AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

CAREERS | the Scoop

HAPPY ‘BIRTHDAY’ Adopt a School! Jodi Larson, Green Industry Student Awareness Project Coordinator ummer is here and moving fast and the next school year will be here before we know it. This past year marked the first school year for MNLA’s Adopt a School program. The program was designed to encourage MNLA members to reach out to schools in their community and teach students about the variety of rewarding careers available in the green industry. Through Scoop articles, the MNLA.biz website, committee meetings, emails, and events like Expo, MNLA has reached out to its members to get the word out about the Adopt a School program and the resources available to help members reach out to students. Many MNLA members came together to make this past year a huge success and we’re looking to do even more in the upcoming year. Thank you to all of these members who stepped up and have volunteered their time and signed up for the Adopt a School outreach program:

Scott Kuehl - S.K. Landscapes Jen Walker - Jim Whiting Nursery Heather McLain - Tree-N-Turf Services Don Kunesh - Lakedale Landscape & Nursery Gretchen Boldt - Hilltop Greenhouse & Farm Scott Frampton - Landscape Renovations Patrick Warden - Bachman's Jennifer Johnson – McCaren Designs, Inc. Steve Hoogenakker - Concierge Landscape Doug Geesaman - Otten Bros. Nursery & Landscaping, Inc. Aimee Whitaker - Dolan's Landscape Center Dave Nordgaard - A Top Notch Equipment Corey Whitmer - e Mustard Seed Landscaping & Garden Center Amanda Clark - Malmborg's Shakopee Kelsey Sparks - Green Barn Garden Center Diana Gagnon - Northland Landscaping Ela Roth - Green Lake Nursery Todd Peterson - Todd's Landscaping Shasta Frandrup - Timberland Outdoor Services Inc. Tami Gallagher - Home Sown Gardens 46

www.MNLA.biz | AuGuSt 2011

Bob Palmer - Landscape Renovations John Mickman - Mickman Brothers, Inc. Angela Sydnes - Grow Inspired Van Cooley - Malmborg's Garden Center Dave Morton - St Croix Tree Service Pat Morstad - Precision Landscape & Irrigation LLC Josh Kiecker - Sculptured Earth, Inc. Kurt Schrader - Twin Lakes Landscaping Dan Sandager - Abrahamson's Nurseries Susie Johnson- Gertens Wholesale Brad Tabke – Reliable Property Services Heidi Heiland – Heidi’s Lifestyle Gardens Karen Filloon – Southview Design Mike McNamara – Hoﬀman and McNamara Mariah Mickman – Mickman Brothers, Inc. Please join us this year and add your name to this list! You can keep posted about upcoming events and chances to get involved at MNLA.biz keyword “Schoolhouse.” Or email Jodi@MNLA.biz and sign up now. Let’s do what we can to ensure a successful future for our industry by educating students now about rewarding careers in the green industry. q

the Scoop | AWARDS

651-633-4987 Executive Director Bob Fitch • bob@mnla.biz Associate Director Cassie Larson, CAE • cassie@mnla.biz Membership Director & Trade Show Manager Mary Dunn, CEM • mary@mnla.biz Communications Director Jon Horsman • jon@mnla.biz Executive Assistant Susan Flynn • susan@mnla.biz Accountant Norman Liston • norman@mnla.biz Receptionist Jessica Pratt • jessica@mnla.biz Advertising & Sponsorship Sales Pierre Productions & Promotions 952-903-0505 Betsy Pierre, Advertising Manager, betsy@pierreproductions.com Erica Nelson, Advertising Sales, erica@pierreproductions.com Government Affairs Consultants Doug Carnival, Legislative Affairs Tim Power, Regulatory Affairs

THE OR R

In addition to association activities, the MNLA staff provides management for:

GR EN E

Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association 1813 Lexington Ave. N. Roseville MN 55113 651-633-4987, fax 651-633-4986 Outside the metro area, toll free: 888-886-MNLA, fax 888-266-4986

www.MNLA.biz www.GardenMinnesota.com www.NorthernGreenExpo.org www.TheLandLovers.org

www.MNLA.biz | AuGuSt 2011

Order forms or links for many of the services listed below can be found at www.mnla.biz Companies endorsed by MNLA:

Credit Card Processing THE CREDIT CARD DR./Better Business Solutions 651-207-6867 877-272-0741 (Toll Free) dan@the CCDr.com www.TheCCDr.com Business Legal Services (Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC) 651-331-6500 Business Succession (AgStar) 507-386-4620 Fuel Discount Card (Speedway/SA/Marathon) 651-454-7776 ext. 208 Fuel Savings (Holiday Stationstores) 952-830-8889 Horticultural Books (MN State Horticultural Society) 651-643-3601 Workers Compensation Insurance (The Builders Group) 651-203-6793 Contact the MNLA office at mnla@mnla.biz or 651-633-4987 or toll-free 888-886-6652 for information on the following products or services.

Catalogs/Outdoor Living publication series Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge Fleet Program Educational Programs/MNLA Academy Employee Recruiting/ On-Line Job Board Employee Training Manuals (PLANET) Garden Center Plant Posters Garden Center Carryout Trays Irrigation Specifications (www.MNLA.biz) Northern Green Expo Trade Show Booths MNLA Certified Professional manuals, exam Sales Tax Rules / Nursery-GreenhouseLandscape (www.MNLA.biz.) Spanish Pocket Reference Guide

MNLA Members Recognized by Minnesota Environmental Initiative everal MNLA members were among those honored by the Minnesota Environmental Initiative. MEI partnerships with nonprofit, business and government leaders to work collaboratively to solve environmental problems.

MNLA member Hedberg Aggregates Inc. was recognized as part of the “Go Blue! Diamond Lake Community Makeover” project which was the winner in the “Natural Resource Protection and Restoration” category. In addition to Hedberg Landscape & Masonry Supplies, Go Blue! partners include Friends of Diamond Lake, Hale-Page Diamond Lake Community Association, Minnehaha Creek Watershed District, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, Diamond Lake Lutheran Church and Metro Blooms. MNLA member The Mustard Seed Garden Center was the winner of the Partnership of the Year Award. The Mustard Seed earlier this year won MNLA’s Friend of the Environment Award for its environmentally proactive approach to its business operations. A number of MNLA members, including Plaisted Inc., Mickman Brothers Inc., Arteka Companies, and Water in Motion Inc. played a role in the construction of Target Field, which was presented the Green Business and Environmental Management Award. Other MEI winners included Milan Sustainable Energy Utility (Energy & Climate Protection Category); Powderhorn Lake Neighborhood of Raingardens (Environmental Education Category); and St. Paul Port Authority’s Beacon Bluff Redevelopment (Sustainable Communities Category). q

AWARDS | the Scoop

Helping the Arboretum’s Urban Garden Grow n expanded garden at Oak Park Center in the Jordan neighborhood of Minneapolis will be growing food, science lessons and summer jobs for youth, thanks in part to Dale Bachman, recipient of the University of Minnesota Outstanding Achievement Award and a U of M graduate in plant and soil science (1972).

For 23 years, the Arboretum’s Urban Garden initiative has provided children from diverse economic and cultural backgrounds an opportunity to forge connections with nature and science. With community and philanthropic partners, the initiative has evolved to include out-of-school-time outreach, youth employment and higher education mentorship. Other Urban Garden sites include the Phillips, Prospect Park and

Elliot Park neighborhoods.

University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks presented the award to Bachman.

“The Urban Garden program engages youth to be curious about “In addition to plants in their celebrating the daily lives and personal and prepares them to professional be leaders,” said achievements of Edward Dale Bachman, we Bob Bruiniks, Dale Bachman and Ed Schneider Schneider, also want to director of the Arboretum. “We are recognize his volunteer leadership at the appreciative of the Bachmans’ support.” university and within the broader community,” said President Bruininks. The Achievement Award honors “His decision to pay tribute to the graduates who lead their profession with Arboretum’s Urban Garden program is distinction. In lieu of a formal ceremony, an example of his extraordinary Bachman and his wife, Ruth, donated generosity and commitment, and we are funds to expand the Oak Park garden. grateful for his contributions." q

MNLA Woodland Hill Winery Event

Thursday, August 18, 2011 Join fellow MNLA members for an evening of networking on Thursday, August 18 at Woodland Hill Winery. You will: ! ! ! !

Hear a brief introduction to the winery/growing operations Get a chance to sample 9 varieties of wine Enjoy the beautiful gardens and outdoor areas Have time for networking with MNLA members

Network, have a few light appetizers and enjoy all this lovely winery and their outdoor space has to offer. All members are welcome!

Just for fun!!!

Schedule 4:00—Registration 4:00-6:00—Winery introduction, tasting, appetizers and networking! Presented by: Location Woodland Hill Winery 731 County Road 30 SE Delano, MN 55328 Cost $20 per person—register using the back of this form or online at www.MNLA.biz! AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

the Scoop | PLANT OF THE MONTH

Northern Acclaim® Honeylocust Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis ‘Harve’

Plant of the Month

By Craig Chilstrom, Prairie Edge Nursery his recent introduction by North Dakota State University, due to improved cold hardiness, provides a new option for Minnesota and other northern climates. In North Dakota sites Northern Acclaim Honeylocust has shown winter hardiness to zone 3.

When compared to other currently available cultivars its growth habit is most similar to Skyline®. It has an upright and open form that provides filtered sunlight at ground level. Mature height is shorter than Skyline at 35 to 45 feet, with a high canopy and mature width of 30’ to 35’. It is fast growing and will reach mature height in 25 years. Under ideal conditions it is expected to live for 70 years. Northern Acclaim Honeylocust is thornless and seedless, and relatively low maintenance. This tree needs to be planted

Provided by NDSU Research Foundation in full sun. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types, PH levels, tolerant of environmental salt, and has shown good drought tolerance. This tree may be a good choice for boulevard, as well as landscape plantings. Filtered sunlight at ground level allows for additional landscape plantings. Limited experience in my nursery has shown Northern Acclaim Honeylocust to be fast growing and relatively easy to maintain a strong central leader. It has done well in heavy soil with PH levels up to 7.6. It has held up well in high winds and has not suffered from deer damage. It has outperformed Shademaster® Honeylocust. Northern Acclaim Honeylocust appears to be an interesting new introduction. As with all new introductions when they receive wide distribution new information will become available about performance in a wider variety of conditions and real world situations. This appears to be a cultivar worth trying, or to watch for possible future use. Availability of Northern Acclaim Honeylocust appears to be relatively good at current demand levels. q ________________________________________________ Craig Chilstom is a member of the MNLA Nursery Committee and can be reached at cchilstr@Wildbluecoop.com. 50

www.MNLA.biz | AuGuSt 2011

LANDSCAPE AWARDS | the Scoop

Win a Landscape Award and Reap the Benefits in 2012 by Jon Horsman, MNLA Communications Director f youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never submitted an application for an MNLA Landscape Award, make this the year! Receiving an award provides credibility and visibility among peers and clients, facilitates marketing, and boosts staff morale. Award winners often earn referrals to new customers from the publicity of award-winning projects in Midwest Home magazine, Garden Minnesota Yearbook, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, and online at GardenMinnesota.com and MHMag.com. Receiving an award provides an outstanding opportunity for MNLA members to market their skills as professionals to prospective clients and to attract and retain high quality employees.

Plan to enter this year, and begin reaping the benefits next year and in the years to come. The type, size and cost of a project are not part of the criteria for judging. Judges consider the quality of the workmanship of the design, installation, or management project, and work from digital photos, a written narrative, and a work performance chart without knowing who built, designed, or entered the projects. Download a Landscape Awards application on MNLA.biz and begin preparing your entry now! If you would like a mailed copy of the application, just let Jon Horsman know at jon@mnla.biz or 651-6334987and he will mail you one. q

Landscape Awards Program Sponsors:

AuGuSt 2011 | www.MNLA.biz

Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association 1813 Lexington Avenue North Roseville, MN 55113-0003

GardenMinnesota.com www.MNLA.biz

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