The Scoop Online – February 2015

Lonnee Inducted into Hall of Fame

Also Inside

Day on the Hill

The Dirty Dozen Expo Report Award Winners

a history of invasives MNLA remains engaged in government affairs

Vol: 38 No: 2 Feb 2015 t h e o f f i c i a l p u b l i c at i o n o f t h e M i n n e s o ta N u r s e r y & L a n d s c a p e A s s o c i at i o n

Volume 38 No. 2 Feb 2015

contents 13

57 26

IN THIS ISSUE 8

Events

10 From the Executive Director Exclusive Member Content

41

13 Pruning Clips: The Cuts Another installment of the excellent tree care series focused on mastering the art, science, and practice of pruning.    

20 Setting the Bar Communications + Technology Committee member Betsy Pierre reminds us that our personal standards impact our entire industry. 

26 Minnesota’s Dirty Dozen Faith Appelquist recommends staying away from these twelve when selecting trees for the landscape.     

41 A New Invasive Species This insect attacks grapes, apples, and other fruits and a variety of woody tree and shrub species.     

23 Foundation Corner Dennis Ullom writes about one of the like-minded organizations with which the MNLA Foundation partners.

38 2015 Expo Photos The energy from this annual event continues to reinvigorate attendees and exhibitors.

48 MNLA Award Winners Debbie Lonnee, Harold Pellett, and Matt Mallas were all honored by MNLA this year.

55 Welcome, New MNLA Members!

57 Day on the Hill What can you expect when participating in Day on the Hill?

58 MNLA Awards Gala MNLA celebrated the accomplishments of many in a fast-moving ceremony which left lots of time for networking.

62 Meet Marceleen We welcome the new MNLA Foundation Program Coordinator to the MNLA community.

50 MNLA and Invasive Plants Tim Power writes about the interesting history of MNLA’s involvement in the invasive plants discussion. 

53 Three Common Violations of Employment Law Patrick McGuiness shares the violations of employment law he sees the most in the green industry.   Landscape & Hardscape Install & Design  Garden Services & Landscape Management  Garden Centers  Growers: Nursery & Greenhouse  Irrigation & Water Management  Arborists & Tree Services  All

The Scoop, February 2015, Issue 2, is issued monthly, 12 times per year. All original works, articles or formats published in The Scoop are © Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association, 2015, and may not be used without written permission of MNLA, 1813 Lexington Ave N., Roseville, MN 55113. Subscription price is $99 for one year, which is included with member dues. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Scoop, MNLA, 1813 Lexington Ave N., Roseville, MN 55113.

Editorial Contributions. You are invited to share your expertise and perspective. Article ideas and manuscripts should, whenever possible, reflect real and specific experiences. When submitting an article, please contact the publisher at jon@mnla.biz or 651-633-4987.

MNLA reserves the right to edit all Scoop content.

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Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association Successful Businesses Grow Here!

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.NorthernGreenExpo.org

MNLA Mission: The mission of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association is to help members grow successful businesses.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

heidi heiland, mnla-cp, president Heidi’s Lifestyle Gardens 612-366-7766 • heidi@BloomOnMN.com

herman roerick, vice-president

Central Landscape Supply 320-252-1601 • hermanr@centrallandscape.com

scott frampton, secretary-treasurer

Landscape Renovations 651-769-0010 • sframpton@landscaperenovations.com

debbie lonnee, mnla-cp, past president

Bailey Nurseries, Inc. 651-768-3375 • debbie.lonnee@baileynursery.com

randy berg, mnla-cp

Berg’s Nursery, Landscape/Garden Center 507-433-2823 • randy@bergsnursery.com

tim malooly, cid, clia, cic

Water in Motion 763-559-7771 • timm@watermotion.com

patrick mcguiness

Zlimen & McGuiness PLLC 651-331-6500 • pmcguiness@zmattorneys.com

mike mcnamara

Albert J. Lauer, Inc. ........................................................................................... 24 Anchor Block Company .................................................................................... 12 Ancom Communication & Technical Center .................................................... 11 Anderson Nurseries, Inc. .................................................................................. 18 Arborjet .............................................................................................................28 Aspen Equipment ............................................................................................. 17 Bridgewater Tree Farms ................................................................................... 42 Carlin Horticultural Supplies/ProGreen Plus ..................................................... 31 Central Landscape Supply ................................................................................ 47 Ceres Environmental ........................................................................................ 61 COWSMO, INC. ............................................................................................... 18 Cushman Motor Co. Inc ................................................................................... 44 D. Hill Nursery Co. ............................................................................................ 47 Edney Distributing Co., Inc. ............................................................................. 52 Farber Bag & Supply Co. .................................................................................. 59 Fahey Sales Auctioneers & Appraisers ............................................................. 31 Frost Services ................................................................................................... 60 Fury Motors ...................................................................................................... 40 Gardenworld Inc. .............................................................................................. 59 Gertens Wholesale / JRK Seed .......................................................................... 2 Glacial Ridge Growers ...................................................................................... 60 GM Fleet and Commercial ................................................................................. 3 Hedberg Landscape & Masonry Supplies ........................................................ 37 Jeff Belzer Chevrolet .................................................................................. 32–33 Klaus Nurseries ................................................................................................. 31

Hoffman & McNamara Nursery & Landscaping 651-437-9463 • mike.mcnamara@hoffmanandmcnamara.com

Kline Nissan ...................................................................................................... 22

jeff pilla, mnla-cp

Kubota Dealers ................................................................................................. 54

Bachman’s Inc. 612-861-7600 • jpilla@bachmans.com

cassie larson, cae

Maguire Agency ............................................................................................... 18 Minnesota Propane Association ....................................................................... 39

MNLA Executive Director 651-633-4987 • cassie@mnla.biz

Out Back Nursery ............................................................................................. 59

Staff Directory

Purple Wave Auction ........................................................................................ 42

Cassie Larson, CAE • cassie@mnla.biz

RDO Equipment Co. ........................................................................................ 11

membership director & trade show manager:

Resultants for Business, Inc. (RFB) .................................................................... 52

executive director:

Mary Dunn, CEM • mary@mnla.biz

communications director: Jon Horsman • jon@mnla.biz education/cert manager: Susan Flynn • susan@mnla.biz government affairs director: Tim Power • tim@mnla.biz mnla foundation program coordinator: Marceleen Mosher • marceleen@mnla.biz

accountant: Norman Liston • norman@mnla.biz advertising sales: 952-934-2891 / 763-295-5420

Faith Jensen, Advertising Rep • faith@pierreproductions.com Betsy Pierre, Advertising Mgr • betsy@pierreproductions.com

legislative affairs consultant: Doug Carnival 6

ad list

Volume 38 No. 2 Feb 2015

➾ sectio n title

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Plaisted Companies ............................................................................................ 7

Rock Hard Landscape Supply division of Brian’s Lawn & Landscaping, Inc. .... 18 The Builders Group .......................................................................................... 39 The Mustard Seed ............................................................................................ 44 Tri-State Bobcat, Inc. .............................................................................. 4, 46, 56 Truck Utilities & Mfg. Co. .................................................................................. 12 United Label & Sales ........................................................................................ 31 Versa-Lok Midwest ........................................................................................... 25 Wolf Motors ...................................................................................................... 59 Ziegler CAT ......................................................................................... Back Cover

➾ calenda r

MNLA Event

mar4

MNLA Event

mar 17–18

MNLA Event

mar10

Pesticide Certification Workshop and Exam

MNLA CERTIFICATION EXAM TIES Event Center St. Paul

➾ Green Industry Day on the Hill Kelly Inn, St. Paul MNLA.biz This annual government affairs event is an opportunity to make personal connections with legislators that will provide greater political strength to MNLA as an organization and, thus, ultimately to your business.

➾

TIES Event Center St. Paul

MNLA.biz

MNLA.biz

Increase your industry professionalism and sit for the exam to become an MNLA Certified Professional. New digital format!

Prepare for the category A & E pesticide applicator certification exam by attending this 1½ day study program. Day 2 includes testing, if desired.

Generously supported by:

MNLA Event MNLA Event

mar31

mar24 ➾

Low Voltage Lighting Design, Installation & Advanced Controlling (PLT Relicensure) Roseville Oval MNLA.biz This class provides eight hours of Power Limited Training credit orientated specifically towards the landscape lighting specialist.

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➾

Popular Perennials for Local Landscapes Heritage Room Bachman’s on Lyndale MNLA.biz Our local area is blessed with a cadre of experts on perennial plants.

Attend this seminar and learn about the latest in popular perennials for our local landscapes.

2015 MNLA seminars generously supported by John Deere Landscapes

MNLA Event

mar23

mar 17–18 ➾

➾

MINNESOTA SHADE TREE SHORT COURSE Bethel University Arden Hills

Improving your Hardscape Business: Estimating, Equipment and Efficiencies Heritage Room Bachman’s on Lyndale

MNLA.biz cceevents.umn.edu

MNLA.biz This seminar is geared toward business owners and decision makers.

Speakers: Bill Gardocki and Donny Hines will provide information your hardscape business needs to hit the ground running in 2015.

This year’s program will focus on diversity and urban forestry.

Free Spring Webinars for Members: www.MNLA.biz

FEB11

Top New Annuals for 2015 — with Carolyn Jones, BFG Supply Co. Carolyn will review the top new annuals for Spring 2015. She will also share some highlights from the IPM Essen show in Germany.

FEB19

Success with Minnesota Hardy Landscape Roses — with David Zlesak, University of WisconsinRiver Falls. David will guide us through the basics of rose care and highlight tried and true performers as well as some of the newer roses that have been showing promise in the Northern Earth-Kind Rose Trials.

FEB25

Plant Design Mixing & Matching: Combinations that Thrill and Thrive — with Julie Weisenhorn, University of Minnesota Extension. This webinar focuses on mix and match as key to successful plant combinations that not only enhance landscapes but thrive in landscapes.

MAR5

Social Media Marketing Basics — with Oscar Stuttgen, GlueBug LLC. Learn Facebook and Twitter tips and tricks to help your business grow online.

MAR11

Pollinators & Pesticides — with Karl Foord, University of Minnesota Extension. Learn how our actions as landscape professionals can have an impact on pollinators.

Key:

Event ➾ ➾

Education All information on these and other industry events are online at MNLA.biz.

Did you miss a webinar? ALL of our webinars are recorded and available for viewing afterwards. Login to MNLA.biz to learn more! february 15

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➾ fr om the executive dir ect o r

Exclusive Member Content I, and other MNLA staff, are often asked the question “Why should I join or renew my MNLA membership?” And, while I have MANY great answers to that question, today I’d like to call your attention to just one.

• Wage Statistics — Every two years, MNLA researches positions that are specific to the green industry or those positions closely related to positions in our industry and compiles a report for MNLA member use. The information is compiled from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.

mnla members have exclusive access to a variety of resources on www.MNLA.biz. In fact, there is a Cassie Larson special menu item called “Members Only.” If you visit MNLA Executive Director the website and hover over this tab, you’ll see that only two items initially display. However, once you log in, the website will recognize that you’re part of the club and the menu expands. Below are a few highlights of what you’ll find: • Scoop Archive — Missed last month’s Scoop?

Read it online in the Scoop archive! In fact, if FOR THE you missed any issue in the last five years, you’ll find links to it from these pages. All issues since 2010 are available in our online magazine format!

RESEARCH REAL WORLD

• Sales Tax Fact Sheets — Minnesota Department of Revenue published updates to two key sales tax fact sheets in 2012 related to the green industry.

This page compiles easy links and guidance for everything from landscape construction and maintenance to nursery and greenhouse production. All in one quick location.

• Marketing Toolbox — The following tools and resources are available through this page: • Media Toolkit • MNLA Logos to include in your own marketing • Plant Something campaign graphics, videos, and logos • PPS Brochure • Why Hire an MNLA Member Flyers Garden Centers, you may want to specifically check out: • Customer Resource Sheets — Are you still

Research for the Real World: Exclusive Member Only Content

Information The MNLA Foundation provides a great resource each compiled bymonth the to members through Research for the Real World articles written by MNLA Foundation Jim Calkins. Calkins helps synthesize articles to help the success and research to make it easy for members to of find your thebusiness most relevant information for their business. today Want to read in-depth on any of these topics?

MNLA.biz _________ Visit www.MNLA.biz and choose “Members Only” from the menu. (Note: You’ll need to log The Scoop in_________ to access this exclusive member content!)

MNLA eNews 10

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Below is a review of the topics covered in 2014.

• White Fringetree May Be Susceptible to Attack by Emerald Ash Borer

• Evergreens or ‘Everbrowns?’

Winter Conifer Damage

• Deer-Tolerant Plants

• Storing ‘Honeycrisp’ Apples

• How Is Snow Season Shaping Up This Year?

• Imprelis® Settlement Reached

• Recap on Pollinators

• Keeping Up with EAB

• Milk…It Does a Plant Good?

• More on the Mulch Debate

• Effectiveness of Permeable Pavers • Landscape Trends

• Asian Cockroach Visits the High Line

Go online and print a twopage colorful flyer that brings together highlights from documented research with photos that illustrate the facts. Provide the flyer during your customer presentations! using the “Northern Gardener” fact sheets as a consumer handout? We have seen these on many garden center walls. High resolution PDFs are available for download so you can print as many as you require. There are 20 different sheets in full color!

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

When you need to give your crew direction.

When project coordination helps you meet a deadline.

SALES: 952-808-0033 RENTALS: 952-890-7570 SERVICE: 952-808-7699

Landscape designers and installers, you may want to specifically check out: • The Value of Landscape Design Flyer — You know that sophisticated landscape design adds true value to a home, but do your potential clients know the numbers?

Go online and print a two-page colorful flyer that brings together highlights from documented research with photos that illustrate the facts. Provide the flyer during your customer presentations!

Two-Way Communications

sales @ ancom.org

WWW.ANCOM.ORG When you need reliable two-way communication.

MOTOROLA, MOTO, MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS and the Stylized M Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Motorola Trademark Holdings, LLC and are used under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. 2015 Motorola Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.

ANCOM2015_4.75x4.75_Landscaper_WinterTrio_BW.indd 1

10/15/14 8:45 PM

• Impervious Cover Requirements for MCWD Cities — This resource from the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) lists all the cities in the region and their requirements for impervious cover on shoreland, in usage for single family homes outside the shoreland zone, the number of variances the city has approved, and other notes on various topics like BMPs, rate of stormwater runoff, Low Impact Design (LID), innovative stormwater management techniques, pervious and non-pervious pavers, drainage, rain barrels, and hardcover credits.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, so I encourage you to login and check it out today. Hopefully something you find will prove valuable to your business this spring! can be reached at cassie@mnla.biz or 651-633-4987.

cassie larson

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Scoop MNLA-Feb 2015_Landings Step Unit.indd 1

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Pruning Clips: Snapshots of the Art, Science and Practice of Pruning Natural Form

The Cuts

Natural form arises from the plant’s DNA footprint. This genetic footprint dictates the location of buds and branches and subsequently governs size, habit, and branch patterns. Landscape form or ultimately what we see is often the results of what, where and how we cut.

Robert E. Schutzki, Department of Horticulture | Michigan State University The Pruning Clips Series was originally published in the Michigan Nursery & Landscape Association’s bimonthly magazine The Michigan Landscape.

➾ the cuts

E

Figure 1: Landscape form.

Being able to distinguish between the bud types and their location on first or second year wood is important when flowering is a consideration.

Figure 2: Stem with terminal and lateral buds.

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very cut initiates a response; every cut leads to a set of consequences. Let’s take a look at some basic plant parts involved in making decisions on what, where and how to cut.

It all starts with the stems (Fig. 2). At the top of each stem is a single or cluster of terminal buds formed during shoot elongation.

Lateral buds, also referred to as nodes, form at the base of each leaf (Fig. 3). Apical dominance is the physiological control that an active shoot tip has on its laterals. Auxin synthesized in the active shoot tip suppresses lateral bud expansion on the current season’s growth (Fig. 4). The dominance exerted by active terminals is lessened in two-year old stems and normal lateral bud expansion usually occurs. However, lateral buds on current season’s growth may break if the active terminal is damaged or removed (Fig. 5).

Terminal and lateral buds can be flowering, vegetative or a combination. Being able to distinguish between the bud types and their location on first or second year wood is important when flowering is a consideration. Internode is the area between nodes; internode length is the distance between nodes and is indicative of a species’ growth rate and habit.

All pruning involves two cuts, heading and/or thinning. Heading cuts are made directly above a bud. Although it usually occurs on current season’s growth, heading can be any stem cut that is made directly above a lateral bud. Heading initiates a vigorous response from buds behind the cut. Depending on the species, it may stimulate bud break at 2–4 nodes behind the cut. Heading is often used to reduce the overall size of a plant only to have new shoots return due to the stimulated growth (Fig. 6). Plants will vary in their response to heading (Fig. 7, 8). Observing an individual species response to heading cuts will aid in developing future pruning strategies.

Figure 3: Bud formed at the base of the leaf.

Figure 4: Apical dominance.

Figure 5: Released laterals from a damaged terminal.

Figure 6: Heading street trees.

Pruning guides recommend that heading cuts be made at a 45-degree angle 1/4"above the bud (Fig. 9). The angle facilitates wound closure and allows the cut to dry quickly after a rain. If the cut is too close to the bud, wound drying will damage the vascular connections to the bud, resulting in bud loss. Too steep of an angle will expose an excessive amount of wood, delay wound closure and cause possible bud loss. A cut too high will result in a stub that will die and eventually decay (Fig. 10). Decayed stubs are unsightly and are avenues for disease or insect entry. Problems with high cuts in the middle of internodal areas are common with heading (Fig. 11).

Flat-topped cuts will also result in dead and decayed stubs.

Thinning refers to cutting a stem back to its point of origin (Fig. 12). This is the least conspicuous and obtrusive type of pruning.

The overall growth response is negligible. Thinning can be used to reduce overall height and width of a plant without the growth stimulation caused by heading. Thinning is also very productive in opening a crown for increased light penetration and air circulation.

Increased light penetration stimulates interior flower and vegetative bud formation and subsequent growth in areas that may have been limited due to the branch density of the outer crown. Increased air circulation can be beneficial in minimizing disease pressure. The location of a thinning cut at the base of the stem is as important as heading cuts are in relation to a bud. Research has shown that the most beneficial thinning cuts are made in the stem collar; some refer to this area as the stem flange (Fig. 13). The stem collar or flange is the buttressed area at the base of the stem with characteristic shoulder rings. Cuts should be made into the center of the rings. Cutting in the shoulder rings minimizes the surface area of the cut and facilitates speedy wound closure. Too close of a cut causes excessive wound area; outside of the rings causes a stub. When research on

Figure 7: Smokebush response to heading.

Figure 8: Crabapple response to heading.

Figure 9: Heading cut.

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âžž the cuts

Figure 10: Heading cut that is too high.

Figure 11: Heading cut in internodal area.

Figure 12: Thinning cuts at the point of origin.

Figure 13: Stem collar or flange.

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Bench cuts reduce the overall height of a plant without any subsequent terminal response.

Bench cuts are used regularly in fruit production to produce open centers to increase light penetration and subsequent flower bud formation. the shoulder ring cut was initially publicized a common error was to prune on the outside of the rings (Fig. 14). When the collar or shoulder rings are not visible, cut on an imaginary line bisecting the upper angle of the crotch.

Here are examples of several pruning practices that are varying versions of heading and thinning.

Shearing is the use of heading to develop a formal appearance (Fig. 15). It does not cut above individual buds, but rather indiscriminately cuts in internodal areas leaving varying stubs. Regrowth is dense and often limits the depth of foliage (Fig. 16). Shearing is most effective when done early in the growth cycle. This will encourage new growth and the masking of pruning cuts and stubs.

However, too soon will stimulate growth and require a repeat performance to achieve the desired formality of the outer shell throughout the season. Shearing can be used effectively for hedges and other forms requiring dense uniform shapes.

Pinching is a delicate form of heading that removes growing tips when they are tender and easily removed by hand. Pinching

invigorates bud break, increases shoot numbers, adds potential new flowering points, and/or removes unwanted buds or growth.

Disbudding is another form of heading that removes flower buds or seed heads to reduce competition between plant parts. In some cases, removal of flower buds will promote larger flowers and fruit.

Removal of seed heads will lead to better vegetative growth. It also can be done to eliminate overcrowding and competition between shoots.

Bench cuts are a form of thinning of larger branches employed to decrease the overall size of a plant. Branches are traced back into the plant and cut immediately above an active lateral branch (Fig. 17). Bench cuts reduce the overall height of a plant without any subsequent terminal response. Bench cuts are used regularly in fruit production to produce open centers to increase light penetration and subsequent flower bud formation.

Basal pruning is a form of thinning to remove branches at the base of the plant. It can be performed on trees or shrubs for functional reasons such as aesthetics, ease of maintenance around the base of a plant, allowing views under a canopy or, in the case of

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Page 1

➾ the cuts

Figure 14: Cut outside of the shoulder rings.

Figure 15: Shearing, indiscriminate heading.

Figure 16: Shearing limits — depth of foliage.

Figure 17: Bench cut.

trees, eliminating low branches in pedestrian areas. Christmas tree producers employ basal pruning to produce clean “handles”. The extent of elevation of the branches depends on the function.

Renewal pruning is a practice that employs both heading and thinning to revive and invigorate old plants. Plants are pruned by cutting out the oldest branches at the ground, leaving only younger stems. If younger stems are limited, the older stems can be removed over a 2–3 year period. Younger stems are then headed to stimulate new shoots and branching at several layers in the crown. As new shoots emerge from the base of the plant, they are headed and thinned to promote vigor, develop branch layers and begin structural development of the overall crown.

Renovation pruning is heading at its extreme. Renovation simply is taking the plant down to the ground to stimulate dormant buds

or the initiation of new buds and subsequent shoot development.

Not all plants can be renovated with success. We need to be careful in selecting the species. Once new shoots emerge, both heading and thinning are employed as mentioned in renewal pruning.

Ultimately, pruning is all about the cut. Mastering the art and science of pruning begins with our understanding and use of the cut.

Pruning Clips is a series focused on mastering the art, science and practice of pruning. All photos used in this article are used by permission of Robert Schutzki and may not be reused in any way without express written permission.

Dr. Robert Schutzki is a Professor in the Department of Horticulture at Michigan State University. His research interests include plant exploration, plant evaluation, and landscape development.

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Setting the Bar “ The greater danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark.” — Michelangelo

Betsy Pierre | Pierre Productions

W

ho sets up the bar, and how high should it be set? Really, it is set arbitrarily on an individual basis. The symbolic “bar” available to measure so many things in life from expectations to goals, to performance to outcomes, is a frequently untapped mental tool. A tool that, if put to work, can be a powerful, professional motivator pushing us to assess the projects before us and to focus our energies toward ideal outcomes.

For most, setting the bar isn’t something that is habitually considered. We work to keep the conveyor belt of tasks moving — to stay on point and to get the jobs done. By and large, we want to produce quality work, to have happy customers, and pleased colleagues. But, factors such as budgets, weather, workload, and personal life often have a pull on the level setting of our bar.

In addition, these days large portions of projects we work on involve participation from others. Team tasks can be challenging for many reasons, not the least of which could be a difference in work ethic and in varying, individual bar settings.

In front of you is a challenge — a challenge to take a daily moment to bring your bar into focus and to visualize where you need/want it to be. We are all capable of aiming for a high level of quality work.

We are all able to be mindful of the effort and energy we put forth in our careers. If we make a conscious effort to position our personal bar at a high setting, then our actions and activities can be driven by the standard we have actively, deliberately set for ourselves.

In addition, as leaders we have the ability to guide the bar settings of colleagues and team members. Strong players are able to exude a positive force within projects and work environments and can raise the level of work expectations for all involved.

“I have heard I am too picky,” said Randy Berg, Berg’s Nursery.

“But in the end, I am the gatekeeper of quality for the customer.

If the products and materials we put into a project are questionable, then the end product will not be what the customer expects or deserves.”

Admittedly, an individual may have various bar settings in their professional life. Yes — there are times when a lower bar setting is reasonable. Take for example, a workspace or desk that may appear disorganized or even disastrous. Not ideal, but few will complain if the work coming from that area is exceptional.

As with most topics, there is another angle to consider here. We should be wary of the too-lofty bar. We have all been in situations where expectations might be set too high either by oneself or by a colleague. It’s hard to believe a high bar setting could be problematic, but if achieving and maintaining that level means near impossible feats, then it usually results in disappointment for all.

Unfortunately there are times when reality poses severe limitations on reaching our personal bar settings. A colleague of mine in a recent conversation shared her frustration about a project with which she’d been involved. “It took me a while to realize I had to walk away,” she said.

As much as I believed in the project and frankly had a financial stake in its success, it became obvious I had little to no control over the circumstances or the decisions being made. I realized I had virtually no power to effect a positive outcome. My professional reputation was in jeopardy and it became important for me to remove myself from the project.

Those with high bar settings might resist leaving a project behind as it feels like failure or giving up. In reality, it’s the strength and conviction of excellence that supports such an action.

Lastly, there are times when one might possess great, personal control over the final product or project, yet there is a sense the bar is slipping. Life’s constant shifting has us always adjusting our balance. There are occasions when it seems the bar might free fall at any moment. Taking a step away can often help lock the bar back into position. That might mean taking a few days off to recharge; attending an event or conference to refresh; or even just going to lunch with a colleague for some great conversation and stirring of ideas.

In the end, the bar is put before us all. It is there for each of us to set as we wish. The bar is our opportunity to determine the professional expectations we hold for ourselves and to make us accountable for the contributions we make to the nursery and landscape industry. Will you take the challenge? is MNLA’s Advertising Sales Manager and sits on MNLA’s Communications & Technology Committee. Betsy can be reached at betsy@pierreproductions.com.

Betsy Pierre

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➾ fou ndation COR NER

What’s in it for you?

Dennis Ullom

Most of you are very aware of the MNLA Foundation fundraising activities. The Widmer Golf Tournament, Garden Party, Shootout, Summit Brewery Social, Vendor Collector Partnership, Scholarship Sponsor Contributions, and Foundation Trustee Personal Touch contributions are all well publicized. These fund raising activities not only allow the Foundation to financially support the missions that have been identified as important, but also serve as important networking and socialization functions within the MNLA organization.

Instant Green Tree Planting, Inc.

the primary benefactors of these fundraising efforts are the Foundation’s focus missions of Research, Scholarships, and Career Development. At a recent MNLA Foundation Board of Trustees meeting, we approved funding for several research grants, matching funding for 24 scholarships, and discussed at length the role of a new hire in promoting our varied industry to a new generation of potential green industry employees.

This Career Development mission has been a persistently difficult one to get a handle on. As an industry, we can all agree that finding, training, and keeping employees is the biggest challenge we will face in the next decade and beyond. Competition from other trades for a shrinking demographic should be a concern for all green industry companies. Recent efforts have shown that there is no preferred method to promote careers within our industry. As a board, we are approaching this concern much the same way most of us deal with marketing — by using multiple tactics. We can no longer just put an ad in the Yellow Pages or newspaper, but instead must include branding, networking, and a host of other activities in our marketing plans. The Foundation Board’s Career Development efforts include varied approaches including face-to-face classroom recruiting and partnerships with other organizations.

One of the partnerships is with Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom (MAITC), www.maitcfoundation.org.

An annual contribution the MNLA Foundation makes to the MAITC aids them in their mission to support

Agriculture Literacy through K–12 Education. Some of the MAITC initiatives include: • Minnesota AgMag series: Their flagship publication. Three unique issues are sent out, by request, to 500 schools, reaching 40,000 4–6th grade students with content tying into core academic studies.

• AgMag Jr.: Geared towards 1st grade students, this publication is growing in popularity and is used by more than 20,000 students.

• Food for Thought Geography Curriculum: this 15-year-old geography-based curriculum was developed in partnership with the Minnesota Alliance for Geographic Education and is directly aligned with Minnesota social studies academic standards.

• Ag Literacy Grant Program: Teachers can apply for and receive grants (up to a maximum of $400) for special ag-themed projects.

• Supplemental Resources: There are a variety of additional resources aimed toward supplementing agricultural learning in the classroom including Minnesota Commodity Cards, themed placemats, bookmarks, DVDs, an updated “Condensed History of Minnesota Agriculture” Timeline, a new Spanish version of Ag is Everywhere, and more. Check out www.mda.state.mn.us/kids for more information. february 15

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➾ F OU N D AT I O N CORN E R

New MAITC Initiatives for 2014–2015:

• Minnesota School Garden Guide: MAITC is working with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s new Farm to School coordinator to promote the Minnesota School Garden Guide which includes 32 classroom lessons tied to Minnesota academic standards.

• Renewable Energy DVD: MAITC has partnered with the Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association to develop a video exploring how the agricultural industry produces home-grown, renewable energy for your car, truck, or bus.

• Champion Teacher Training & Reward: MAITC will work with school districts to identify teachers, principals and/or directors who are currently using and supporting MAITC programs. With a series of incentives and rewards, these champions will be encouraged to continue their involvement and promote the program to other teachers and schools. This model will promote school-wide support and excitement for embedding agriculture.

• Summer Teacher Tour: A summer tour that allows K–12 educators to get a first-hand look into the world of agriculture. The tour involves traveling to agricultural research and development sites, farms, processing facilities and distribution centers.

Our nine-member MNLA Foundation Board of Trustees is always open to your ideas to improve our efforts in our three mission emphasis areas. I can be reached at dullom@instantgreentreeplanting.com with any ideas or questions. We encourage and appreciate your strong participation in the multiple fund-raising events held throughout the year.

Dennis Ullom

can be reached at dullom@instantgreentreeplanting.com.

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➾ the dirty dozen

TREES FOR THE LANDSCAPE:

MINNESOTA’S DIR

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february 15

Faith Appelquist | Tree Quality, LLC

TY DOZEN

Some of these trees may do quite well in a forest or other parts of the U.S., so my intention is not to apply a blanket statement for all these trees to all situations.

Austrian Pine.

february 15

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➾ the dirty dozen

Norway maple.

Lombardy poplar.

P

lease don’t take this advice as a reason to remove a healthy tree. This article is based on my conversations with clients, arborists, nurseries, landscapers, and foresters. Many questions need to be answered including size, location, site characteristics, aesthetic features, pest susceptibility, hardiness, and maintenance considerations.

Lombardy poplar (Populus nigra) Zone 3 to 9 Avoid this tree at all costs. Characterized by a very tight columnar shape, the Lombardy poplar can exceed 100 feet in height within 20 to 30 years. However, at that point, it’s also reached the end of its life expectancy, so it’s another “disposable” tree as opposed to a permanent landscape addition. Lombardy poplars have structurally weak branches that break easily when stressed by wind, snow, or ice. They are continually dropping leaves, twigs and other debris. Aggressive roots can invade sidewalks and clog sewer lines. There are few redeeming characteristics other than its rapid growth rate. I hesitate to recommend planting Poplars in general as they are poor ornamental trees. Plant instead: Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis).

Mountain Ash.

Norway maple (Acer platanoides)

Zone 3 to 7 An easily-grown tree, Norway maple will reach 40 to 50 feet in height with an almost equal spread, and it tolerates air pollution and drought quite nicely. It often suffers from girdling roots, but the more significant issue is that it is overused and overplanted, especially the maroon leaf color variety called ‘Crimson King’. Its wide leaves cast a dense shade that severely limits what can be planted under the canopy, especially grass. Combine that with the fact that Norway maple is popping up in local woodlands and considered invasive in ever-widening areas of the country, and it adds up to another tree to avoid. Plant instead: Red maple (Acer rubrum).

Mountain Ash (Sorbus decora) Zone 3 to 7 A lovely tree that will grow to around 30 feet, with a spread of perhaps 15 feet, the mountain ash is a good food source for a variety of wildlife. That’s all good, but the list of potential problems include: borers, aphids, sawflies, scale, mites, fire blight, rust, scab, cankers, crown gall, and continued on page 34

february 15

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➾ MNLA Board of direct o r s

mnla board of directors Ele c t i o n R es u lts

Heidi Heiland, owner of Heidi’s Lifestyle Gardens, was re-elected president of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association at the Northern Green Expo on Jan. 14th, 2015.

She has been active on several MNLA committees, is an MNLA Certified Professional; a Professional Master Gardener; graduate of Constance Spry Flower School of London; and has been recognized for excellence by a number of professional and civic organizations.

Herman Roerick, owner of Central Landscape Supply Inc., was re-elected as the vice president of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association. A 1984 graduate of the University of Minnesota-Crookston, Roerick is an active volunteer within MNLA, as well as in St. Cloud area business and outdoor groups.

Scott Frampton, co-owner of Landscape Renovations, was re-elected MNLA’s secretarytreasurer. Frampton received a degree in landscape technology from Anoka-Hennepin Technical College in 1989 and has been active in many of MNLA’s committees over the years.

Tim Malooly, owner of Irrigation by Design and Water in Motion, was re-elected to the MNLA Board of Directors. In 2008, Malooly was named the EPA Water Sense program Irrigation Partner of the Year and in 2003 he was awarded the MNLA Committee Member of the Year. He is currently the chair of the MNLA Government Affairs Committee and is a past chair of the MNLA Irrigation Industry Committee.

Randy Berg, owner of Berg’s Nursery, Landscapers/Garden Center, was re-elected to the MNLA Board of Directors. Berg graduated from Duluth Area Technical College with a degree in horticulture and landscape design. He received his MNLA certification in 1981 and became an APLD Certified Landscape Designer in 1997. He is chair of the MNLA Communications & Technology Committee and is a past chair of the Garden Center Committee.

Also continuing to serve on the MNLA Board of Directors are Mike McNamara, Hoffman and McNamara Nursery & Landscape; Patrick McGuiness, Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC; Jeff Pilla, Bachman’s, Inc., and Past President Debbie Lonnee, Bailey Nurseries, Inc.

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➾ the dirty dozen

Walnut.

The European White birches.

White or Common Mulberry.

Colorado Spruce.

continued from page 29

powdery mildew. Seriously now: do you want a tree with this many potential problems in your landscape? Plant instead: Korean Mountain Ash (Sorbus alnifolia).

Walnut (Juglans nigra)

Zone 4 to 9 Black walnut is a beautiful tree, reaching a height of 75–100 feet, with a spread to match. It tolerates drought, provides fruit relished by wildlife, and makes a lovely shade tree. Unfortunately, its roots produce chemicals called juglones, which are highly toxic to a wide range of desirable landscape plants (azaleas, rhododendrons, blueberries, peonies, tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes).

Additionally, the husks of the nuts can stain clothing and sidewalks, so unless you have a really large landscape, this tree is best left in the forest. Plant instead: Kentucky Coffeetree ‘Espresso’(Gymnocladus dioicus ‘Espresso’).

White or Common Mulberry (Morus alba) Zone 4 to 8 Growing to 35–50 feet, with a spread of 35–40 feet, these are attractive and easily grown trees with interesting foliage and edible fruit. As is common with many exotics, white mulberry is a prolific fruit producer 34

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and aggressively colonizes open, sunny sites. The only beneficiaries are the birds and the silkworms; the tree was originally imported from China for the silkworm industry and unfortunately escaped. It is now invasive through much of the country. The fruit is very messy and will stain clothing and patios. Bacterial blight, leaf spots, cankers powdery mildew, scales, and mites are a few of the other problems that can affect the trees. All in all, best to give this one a wide berth. Plant instead: Bur oak (Querus macrocarpa).

The European White birches (Betula spp; B. pendula, B. pubescens, B. platyphylla) Zone 4 to 9 Generally reaching 40–50 feet, available as a clump, they are tremendously ornamental. They are splendid in winter when the milky white bark is framed against evergreens. These birch varieties, however, are susceptible to the bronze birch borer and birch leaf miner, both tree killers. Control requires spraying, which is time-consuming and costly. They have a very shallow root system and do poorly when planted in lawns. A short-lived tree, think carefully before planting. Plant instead: the native birches (B. papyrifera, B. popuifolia,), Betula papyrifera

Flowering Crabapple.

Japanese Maple.

Little leaf linden.

Austrian Pine.

(paper birch, canoe birch), especially the Renaissance Series (‘Cenci’ (Renaissance Compact®), ‘Oenci’ (Renaissance Oasis®), ‘Renci’ (Renaissance Reflection®), ‘Uenci’ (Renaissance Upright®) ‘Varen’ (Prairie Dream®), Betula populifolia ‘Whitespire’.

Colorado spruce (Picea pungens) Zone 3 to 7 Capable of growing 30–60 feet high with a 20 foot spread, this conifer is in high demand because of its attractive blue-green foliage. Native to Colorado, it suffers tremendously when planted outside its native range.

Intolerant to shade, wet soils, heat, pollution, or high humidity. It often looks open, poor, and dingy with age due to absence of lower branches and needle drop caused by disease. It has been standard practice to use this tree in the front yard where it can immediately detract from the rest of the landscape. Leave this tree in Colorado where it is much happier. Plant instead: Serbian spruce (Picea omorika).

Flowering Crabapple (malus spp), disease susceptible cultivars Zone 4 to 7

There are few other trees which approach the beauty of a crabapple tree in full flower. Ornamental crabapples are an outstanding group of small flowering trees. They are valued for foliage, flowers, fruit, and variations in habit or size. Unfortunately many crabapples are worthless because of extreme susceptibility to apple scab, which causes the tree to drop most of its leaves by July. It makes no sense to spray or to have half-to fully-defoliated trees in the garden when smart selections are available. Disease resistance should be your first consideration. Plant instead: Adirondack (Malus ‘Adirondack’), Beverly (Malus ‘Beverly’), Calocarpa (Malus x zumi ‘Calocarpa’), Dolgo (Malus ‘Dolgo’), Harvest Gold® (Malus ‘Hargozam’, Lancelot (Malus x ‘Lanzam’), Molten Lava® (Malus ‘Molazam’, Prairifire (Malus ‘Prairifire), Professor Sprenger (Malus ‘Professor Sprenger’), Royal Raindrops (Malus x ‘JFS-KW5’), Tina (Malus sargentii ‘Tina’), Sugar Tyme® (Malus ‘Sutyzam’)

Little leaf linden (Tilia cordata, especially ‘Greenspire’) Zone 3 to 7 Little leaf linden is another over-planted tree in Minnesota. Growing to 40 feet high, it tolerates poor february 15

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➾ the dirty dozen

White or Common Mulberry.

soils and tough urban conditions. It often develops tight branching, multiple leaders, and narrow branch crotch angles, which leads to included bark formation requiring lots of training pruning. Basal suckering, girdling roots, and storm damage are also frequent headaches. To make matters worse, Japanese beetles love to make lace doilies out of the leaves. Plant instead: American yellowwood (Cladrastis lutea).

Japanese maple (Acer palmatum)

Zone 5 to 8 There are many maple species in Japan, but most of the trees that gardeners call Japanese maples are varieties of Acer palmatum. The species can grow to 20 or 30 feet tall, often in the understory of open woods between larger trees. Japanese maples are at their best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 6 through 8. Pushing the zone to include these beautiful plants in our Minnesota gardens often leads to disappointment after a brutal winter. Garden centers do sell these seductively beautiful plants and occasionally one will succeed in a very protected site. But among the hundreds of cultivars, none is known to be fully hardy in zone 4. Save your money and invest elsewhere.

Plant instead: Korean maple (Acer pseudosieboldianum).

Austrian pine (Pinus nigra) Zone 3 to 6 A very hardy tree that withstands city conditions better than many other pines. Very tolerant of soils, it will 36

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february 15

stand some dryness and exposure and resists heat and drought. It is an adaptable species with very stiff needles making a good specimen, screen, or windbreak. In recent years though, this pine has exhibited severe dieback in Midwestern states, most of which is attributed to Diplodia tip blight and pine wilt. Leave this one at the nursery.

Plant instead: Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana).

Silver maple (Acer saccharinum)

Zone 3 to 9 This species has been and will continue to be overplanted as consumers demand fast shade. It is one of the nursery grower’s biggest moneymakers because of its fast growth and ease of culture. Capable of growing to 70 feet high with 100 foot spread, it becomes a liability with age as it will often break up in wind, snow, and ice. Its aggressive root system can ruin foundations and sewer pipes.

Female trees produce copious amounts of seeds that create baby maples everywhere. Forget about the nice lawn under the tree because its roots push up far beyond the canopy creating an obstacle course for the mower. Just say no to silver maple. Plant instead: Sugar maple (Acer saccharum).

is an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, an ISA Municipal Specialist MN, and an ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist®. Faith can be reached at: faith@treequality.com.

Faith Appelquist

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➾ northern green exp o

Northern Green Expo 2015

2015

The energy surrounding this annual event continues to reinvigorate attendees and exhibitors. New this year were Campfire areas in the trade show designed for easy networking and bite-sized educational gatherings. The Campfires proved to be popular, with most of the sessions drawing double the crowd anticipated.

“We’ll include the Campfires again in 2016,” said MNLA Executive Director Cassie Larson. “And the plan is to add even more innovative concepts to the Northern Green Expo experience in future years, as well.”

The new Career Center was a hit, and the job boards continue to be a well-used feature of Expo.

The education programs engaged attendees with relevant content.

Seminars were well-attended.

The Professional Gardening Networking Group met at the Backyard Campfire.

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The trade show provides a perfect place to do business and catch up with industry contacts.

Chad Giblin from U of M gives his Elm Pruning Demo at the Lakeshore Campfire.

Don’t miss your opportunity to take part in the next Northern Green Expo, January 13–15, 2016.

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➾ resea rch for the r eal w o r ld

A New Invasive Species The threat of invasive species continues to grow as new pests continue to arrive in North America.

Dr. James Calkins

Research Information Director MNLA Foundation

RESEARCH FOR THE REAL WORLD

Information compiled by the MNLA Foundation to help the success of your business today MNLA.biz _________ The Scoop _________ MNLA eNews

invasive species — introduced, non-native species of plants, animals, insects, and diseases that are not indigenous to a particular area that become naturalized and cause significant harm to native ecosystems or society — should be on the mind of every Minnesotan including members of the Minnesota nursery and landscape industry. Regardless if we are affected directly or indirectly by invasive species, these non-native pests affect us all and the environmental and socio-economic costs can be very high. For example, most nursery and landscape professionals are very familiar with the damage caused by the emerald ash borer (EAB; Agrilus planipennis), a devastating insect pest that attacks healthy ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) that was likely introduced to North America from Asia sometime during the 1990’s. Since it was first detected in southeastern Michigan in 2002, EAB has spread to new areas and is now present in 24 states and two Canadian provinces. It was discovered in Minnesota in 2009. Since this Asian invader was introduced to North America it has killed millions of ash trees and continues to spread to new areas. The environmental and financial consequences resulting from the human-mediated introduction and spread of this devastating insect have been significant and are only expected to get worse.

Other destructive, non-native insect pests that have found their way to North American shores and Minnesota include European gypsy moth (EGM; Lymantria dispar; or perhaps more correctly Lymantria dispar subsp. dispar), Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica), and the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys).

Asian long-horned beetle (ALB; Anoplophora glabripennis), mountain pine beetle (MPB; Dendroctonas ponderosae), Japanese cedar long-horned beetle (Callidiellum rufipenne), and the balsam fir and hemlock wooly

adelgids (BWA and HWA and Adelges piceae and Adelges tsugae, respectfully) are also of significant concern, but have not yet made their way to Minnesota. Asian long-horned beetle was found in the Chicago area in 1998, but has been reported as eradicated there. It is a serious pest that attacks a variety of tree species, but has a strong preference for maples (Acer spp.). Mountain pine beetles are native to western North America, but populations have exploded and the pest is expanding its range and is now present in western South Dakota. First detected in Vancouver, British Columbia (Canada) in 1927, and in the United States in Seattle, Washington, in 1954, and in North Carolina on the east coast in 1997, the Japanese long-horned beetle is not a new arrival to North America. It attacks a number of evergreen species including eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), eastern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis), and common juniper (Juniperus communis) and has more recently been confirmed in eight northeastern states including New York and Pennsylvania. The balsam fir and hemlock wooly adelgids are small, wingless, sap-sucking insects related to aphids and native to Europe and Asia, respectively. Infestations of BWA and HWA have been documented in the eastern and western United States with the closest infestations located in eastern New York, Virginia, and Tennessee and eastern Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee, respectively.

Of course, invasive species are not limited to terrestrial insects as diseases and a variety of introduced plant and animal species, terrestrial and aquatic, are part of the growing invasive species threat. The fungi that cause Dutch elm disease (DED; Ophiostoma ulmi and Ophiostoma novo-ulmi; synonym Ceratocystis ulmi) and butternut canker (Sirococcus clavigignenti-juglandacearum), common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), alder or february 15

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âžž resea rch for the r eal w o r ld

glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus; synonym Rhamnus frangula), garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), and zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) are familiar examples. The fungus that causes thousand cankers disease (Geosmithia morbida) on eastern black walnut, butternut (Juglans nigra and Juglans cinerea, respectively), and other members of the walnut family (Juglandaceae) is also a serious threat to walnuts and butternuts in forest ecosystems and designed landscapes, but, like the fungus that causes oak wilt (Ceratocystis fagacearum), the origin of the pathogen is unknown and it is possible the disease may be indigenous to North America. Even so, thousand cankers disease has not yet been documented in Minnesota and every effort should be made to prevent its introduction, and the introduction of other invasive species, into the state.

Unfortunately the threat of invasive species continues to grow as new species continue to make their way to North American shores and make North American ecosystems and landscapes their home away from home.

Although the rate of introduction has remained fairly steady over the years, research indicates about 450 insect pests and 16 diseases that impact trees have invaded the United States since European settlement and an average of about 2.5 non-native insect pests of trees become established in the United States on an annual basis. And even though a relatively small proportion of these insects (14%) have become serious pests, the damage has been significant and the history of insect and disease introductions equates to the unfortunate reality that a new serious plant pest is introduced about every 2.5 years. Remember, too, that this data is specific to tree pests and does not include invasive plants and other harmful invasive species. Given this history, it shouldn’t be surprising that new pests continue to reach our shores with spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), Chinese longhorn beetle (Xylotrechus rufilius), onion weed (Asphodelus fistulosus), a tortrix moth (Phaecasiophora fernaldana), a longhorned beetle (Eburia baroni), poplar hawk moth (Laothoe populi)), and a terrestrial snail (Acusta sp.) being examples of some of the most recent arrivals as reported by U.S. Customs and Border 42

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Although it is neither a fly or a moth, the spotted lanternfly or lanternmoth (Lycorma delicatula) is a species of planthopper (Order: Hemiptera; Family: Fulgoridae) that attacks grapes (Vitis spp.), apples (Malus spp.), and other fruits and a variety of woody tree and shrub species‌ Protection. Asian gypsy moth (AGM; Lymantria dispar subsp. asiatica) has also been detected in North America on multiple occasions (initially in 1991 and subsequently on at least 20 occasions in locations across the United States), but is not yet considered to be established in the United States based on the apparent success of eradication efforts at each of these locations. Asian gypsy moth was most recently detected in Oklahoma in 2013 when a male moth was caught in a survey trap, but whether this catch is related to an infestation remains unknown. A single Asian gypsy moth egg mass and eight additional egg masses were also intercepted on a piece of luggage from Japan at the Portland International Airport in July of this year (2014) and in early August on the exterior surfaces of two vessels arriving in the Portland, Oregon, area from Russia, respectively. Egg masses can contain hundreds of eggs. The establishment of Asian gypsy moth in North America would be a serious threat as it has a much broader host range than European gypsy moth and the females, unlike those of European Gypsy moth, are capable of flight and are strong fliers. Interestingly, a disproportionate number of the invasive species that reach North America are native to Asia and are thought to have been imported as hitch hikers in shipments arriving from China. In recent years, it also appears that a disproportionate number of the insect pests introduced (56%) have been phloemfeeders and borers which have the potential to cause serious damage.

Although it is neither a fly or a moth, the spotted lanternfly or lanternmoth (Lycorma delicatula) is a species of planthopper (Order: Hemiptera; Family: Fulgoridae) that attacks grapes (Vitis spp.), apples (Malus spp.), and other fruits and a variety of woody tree and shrub species including willow (Salix spp.), maple (Acer spp.), aspen (Populus spp.), birch (Betula spp.), lilac (Syringa spp.), dogwood (Cornus spp.), and pine (Pinus spp.). The species is native to China, India, Japan, and Vietnam, but was recently discovered in eastern Pennsylvania (September, 2014) where it has become established in a 30- to 40-square-kilometer (11.6- to 15.4-square-mile) woodland.

This is the first and only known infestation of this invasive species in North America. Spotted lanternfly is also reported to be an invasive species in Korea where it feeds on more than 50 species of plants including 25 species that are present in Pennsylvania. The spotted lanternfly is an eye-catching insect, drab pinkish-gray with distinct black spots when the wings are folded, but strikingly black, white, red with black spots, and yellow when the wings are open and the hind-wings and abdomen are exposed. The wingless nymphs are also striking in appearance; black with distinct white spots with the addition of red markings as they become older. The adults are poor fliers (but good jumpers) and the primary method of spread to new

Figure 1. Spotted lanternfly adult (Lycorma delicatula) with wings closed; an infestation of this invasive species from Asia was discovered on September 22, 2014, in a Pennsylvania woodland and is the first detection of this insect pest in the United States (Photo Credit: Lawrence Barringer, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture; Bugwood.org / ForestryImages.org).

Figure 2. Spotted lanternfly adult (Lycorma delicatula) with wings spread revealing the striking black, white, red, and yellow coloration that is hidden when the insect is at rest; surprisingly, given the welldeveloped wings, the adults are poor fliers, but good jumpers and new infestations can typically be traced to human activities including the movement of firewood, nursery stock, and other materials which may harbor egg masses (Photo Credit: Lawrence Barringer, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture; Bugwood.org / ForestryImages.org).

areas is the human-mediated transport of egg masses on firewood and a variety of other items including lawn mowers, outdoor furniture, vehicles, stone walls, and other surfaces. Thousands of adult specimens and egg masses have been found and whether the insect can be successfully eradicated is a serious concern.

Spotted lanternflies have the potential to impact a variety of sectors within the green industry including grape growers, apple and stone fruit growers, and the silvicultural (forestry) and woodproducts industries. Over 70 species of plants may be affected. Interestingly, Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), an introduced tree species that has escaped cultivation and become invasive in parts of the United States is a preferred food and egg-laying host. Eggs are preferentially laid on smooth surfaces and Tree of Heaven and other smooth-barked trees and relatively smooth surfaces fit the bill perfectly. Lanternfly nymphs and adults use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on the woody parts of plants causing wounds that weep sap which attracts other insects and can serve as a medium for fungal growth resulting in fungal mats. Foliage and fruits are february 15

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Figure 3. Eastern or Canadian hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), a rare and disappearing Minnesota native and good choice for cool, moist locations in designed landscapes; a beautiful and underused evergreen, the species is seriously threatened in the eastern parts of its range by the hemlock wooly adelgid (Adelges tsugae), a destructive, sap-sucking, insect pest introduced from Asia that is not yet present in Minnesota (Photo Credit: Jim Calkins).

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generally unaffected by feeding activities, but severe infestations can cause significant stress and plant mortality. The State of Pennsylvania has issued a quarantine for seven municipalities that restricts movement of any material or object that can spread the pest including things like firewood, yard waste, construction materials, grapes (vines for decorative purposes and nursery stock), nursery stock, and any outdoor household articles like lawnmowers, grills, tarps, and any other equipment, trucks or vehicles that are not stored indoors. A request for emergency federal funding to help combat the spotted lanternfly threat in Pennsylvania and prevent its spread to new areas has also been submitted to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Regarding the other examples of nonnative species that have been intercepted

by U.S. Customs and Border Protection in 2014, some represent the first detection of a species in the United States, while others represent reports of a particular species at a particular port of entry, but not the first time the pest has been detected in the United States. The following includes a

The State of Pennsylvania has issued a quarantine for seven municipalities that restricts movement of any material or object that can spread the pest including things like firewood, yard waste, construction materials, grapes (vines for decorative purposes and nursery stock), nursery stock, and any outdoor household articles like lawnmowers, grills, tarps, and any other equipment, trucks or vehicles that are not stored indoors. brief summary of some of the alien pests intercepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel in 2014 and highlights the ongoing challenge and threat posed by invasive species.

The Chinese longhorn beetle (Xylotrechus rufilius) was discovered

by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the Port of Baltimore Centralized Examination Station in a shipment of ceramic tile from China on October 31, 2014. The find was confirmed by Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) — Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) on November 13, 2014. The beetle has an orange thorax and a black abdomen with horizontal, gold markings and is a potential threat to orchards and a variety of forest and landscape trees. The shipment was re-exported to the port of origin.

The onion weed (Asphodelus fistulosus) seed was discovered at the Champlain Port of Entry (New York) in a shipment of cumin seed on October 28, 2014, and confirmed on October 29, 2014, by APHIS - PPQ inspection personnel. A native of southern Europe and western Asia, onion weed is included on the federal noxious weed list. The shipment was returned to Canada.

The tortrix moth (Phaecasiophora fernaldana), a member of the Tortricidae family (Order: Lepidoptera; tortrix or leafroller moths), was intercepted on a shipment of pump valves that had originated in China on October 6 and confirmed on October 8 by APHIS - PPQ inspection personnel. The species is related to the codling moth (Cydia pomonella), a serious pest of apples and the first invasive pest documented in the Americas (1635), and the spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana). The moth feeds on apple trees (fruits, leaves, buds, and shoots) and is not known to be otherwise present in the western hemisphere. The shipment was intercepted at the port of Buffalo, Lewiston Bridge border crossing (New York) and was returned to Canada. This was a “first in nation” interception.

The long-horned beetle (Eburia baroni) was detected on September 1, 2014, in a shipment of cherry tomatoes at the Nogales inspection facility in Arizona and was confirmed by APHIS - PPQ inspection personnel on October 6, 2014. Tan with very long antennae and yellow markings, the beetle can damage living trees and untreated lumber. The shipment was fumigated and released. This was a “first in nation” detection.

The terrestrial snail (Acusta sp.) was spotted by U.S. Customs and Border personnel at the Port of Baltimore on a shipping container from China on September 10, 2014, and its identification was con-

firmed on September 22, 2014, by APHIS - PPQ experts. The snails feed on a variety of agronomic and horticultural crops and native species. The shipment was “safeguarded” following the find and was ultimately fumigated and released.

And finally, the poplar hawk moth (Laothoe populi) was intercepted

by U.S. Customs and Border personal at Washington Dulles International Airport in a shipment of cut flowers from The Netherlands on April 26, 2014. The identification was confirmed by an APHIS - PPQ entomologist on May 15, 2014. The species is native to the palearctic region (Europe, northern Africa, and northern and central Asia) and has the potential to be a significant threat because they feed on a variety of trees including poplar and aspen (Populus spp.), willow (Salix spp.), alder (Alnus spp.), birch (Betula spp.), elm (Ulmus spp.), oak (Quercus spp.), and ash (Fraxinus spp.). The flowers were destroyed via steam sterilization. This was a “first in nation” discovery.

These are just a few of the invasive species that have reached the United States over the past year (2014). According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, inspectors intercept 440 insect pests on a daily basis. Although this is both a daunting and laudable statistic, history and the growing list of invasive species in the United States clearly shows that, while they may have delayed or even, thus far, prevented the introduction of some alien invaders, existing programs and past efforts to keep these damaging and costly invaders out of North America and the United States are insufficient and have often failed. Although preventing the introduction and spread of invasive species is a complicated and significant challenge, it is clear that a stronger commitment to prevent the introduction of additional non-native invasive species is needed if further introductions are to be prevented. In response to the invasive species threat, the Coalition Against Forest Pests, a coalition of non-profit organizations, for-profit corporations, landowners, state agencies, and academic scholars, including the American Nursery and Landscape Association (now AmericanHort), submitted a letter to the House Committee on Appropriations in support of funding for invasive pest programs at the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

Submitted in March of last year (2013), the letter highlights the concerns associated with invasive species and is an example of the type of grass roots effort that is needed to prevent future introductions.

As with emerald ash borer and most other introduced species, the activities of human beings are usually involved in the transport of invasive species to new areas whether the distance be large (intercontinental) or small (local). The movement of goods — globally or locally — including forest products (including firewood), agricultural commodities, nursery stock and Christmas trees, or, in some cases, materials completely unrelated to plants and agriculture, can result in the introduction and spread of invasive species and damage. An awareness of this human factor — the role of daily commerce and the many, and sometimes completely innocent and unexpected, ways invasive species can be transported to new areas, combined with a desire and a willingness to prevent the introduction of invasive species must become the norm if the invasive species threat is to be mitigated. Clearly, the nursery and landscape industry has an important role to play in this effort. february 15

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An awareness of this human factor — the role of daily commerce and the many, and sometimes completely innocent and unexpected, ways invasive species can be transported to new areas, combined with a desire and a willingness to prevent the introduction of invasive species must become the norm if the invasive species threat is to be mitigated.

For additional information and detail about the threat of invasive species and the activities of U.S. Customs and Border Protection related to invasive species, see the following selected references:

Raupp, M.J. 2011. Invasions by Non-Native Insects. Arborist News 20(4):27-29. http://viewer.epaperflip.com/Viewer. aspx?docid=3f1b87ab-c29b-4cb5-aa13-a2bc0103c369#?page=28 Mazan, J. 2014. Mountain Pine Beetle Threatens Minnesota Forests.

KSTP-TV News; November 13, 2014. http://kstp.com/news/stories/ S3618430.shtml?cat=1 Raupp, M.J. 2013. Invasion of the Japanese Cedar Longhorned Beetle.

Tree Care Industry 24(5):22-24. http://tcia.org/digital_magazine/tcimagazine/2013/05/index.htm#?page=22 Maher, K. 2014. New Invasive Pest Has Pennsylvania on Alert. The Wall Street Journal; November 10, 2014. (Available by subscription only).

Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. 2014. Spotted Lanternfly. http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/gateway/ PTARGS_0_2_24476_10297_0_43/AgWebsite/ProgramDetail. aspx?name=SPOTTED-LANTERNFLY&navid=12&parentnavid=0&pal id=150&

Aukema, J.E., B. Leung, K. Kovacs, C. Chivers, K.O. Britton, J. Englin, S.J. Frankel, R.G. Haight, T.P. Holmes, M. Liebhold, D.G. McCullough, and B. Von Holle. 2011. Economic Impacts of Non-Native Forest Insects in the Continental United States. PLoS ONE 6(9):e24587. http://www. plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0024587

WFMZ-TV 69News. 2014. Federal Funding Sought in Fight Against Spotted Lanternfly. WFMZ-TV 69News; November 18, 2014. http:// www.wfmz.com/news/news-regional-berks/federal-funding-sought-infight-against-spotted-lanternfly/29801154

Aukema, J.E., D.G McCullough, B. Von Holle, A.M. Liebhold, K. Britton, and S.J. Frankel. 2010. Historical Accumulation of Nonindigenous Forest Pests in the Continental United States. BioScience 60(11):886-897. http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1525/bio.2010.60.11.5

Dara, S.K. 2014. Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is a New Invasive Pest in the United States. Pest News; University of California, Agriculture and Plant Resources; November 7, 2014. http://ucanr.edu/ blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=15861

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U.S. Customs and Border Protection. 2014. CBP Agriculture Specialists Intercept Destructive Asian Gypsy Moth in Portland, Oregon, Area.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Media Release; August 14, 2014. http://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/ 2014-08-14-000000/cbp-agriculture-specialists-intercept-destructive United States Department of Agriculture (USDA); Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ). 2014. Asian Gypsy Moth. USDA; APHIS/PPQ Factsheet; April 2014. http://www.aphis.usda.gov/publications/plant_health/content/ printable_version/fs_phasiangm.pdf U.S. Customs and Border Protection. 2014. Baltimore CBP Intercepts First in Port Beetle. U.S. Customs and Border Protection Media Release; November 19, 2014. http://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/localmedia-release/2014-11-19-000000/baltimore-cbp-intercepts-firstport-beetle U.S. Customs and Border Protection. 2014. Champlain CBP Agriculture Specialists Find Dangerous Weed Seed. U.S. Customs and Border Protection Media Release; November 4, 2014. http://www.cbp.gov/ newsroom/local-media-release/2014-11-04-000000/champlain-cbpagriculture-specialists-find-dangerous U.S. Customs and Border Protection. 2014. Buffalo CBP Intercepts First in Nation Invasive Pest. U.S. Customs and Border Protection Media Release; October 10, 2014. http://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/localmedia-release/2014-10-10-000000/buffalo-cbp-intercepts-first-nationinvasive-pest Wikipedia. Tortricidae. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tortricidae (Accessed on December 3, 2014) U.S. Customs and Border Protection. 2014. Nogales CBP Intercepts First in Nation Pest. U.S. Customs and Border Protection Media Release; October 7, 2014. http://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-mediarelease/2014-10-07-000000/nogales-cbp-intercepts-first-nation-pest U.S. Customs and Border Protection. 2014. Baltimore CBP Intercepts First in Port Acusta Snail. U.S. Customs and Border Protection Media Release; September 24, 2014. http://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/localmedia-release/2014-09-24-000000/baltimore-cbp-intercepts-first-portacusta-snail U.S. Customs and Border Protection. 2014. Dulles CBP Intercepts First in Nation Hawk Moth. U.S. Customs and Border Protection Media Release; May 21, 2014. (Note that the common name is poplar hawk moth, but was incorrectly reported as popular hawk moth in the news release) http://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/2014-05-21-000000/dulles-cbp-intercepts-first-nation-hawk-moth Wikipedia. Laothoe populi. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laothoe_populi (Accessed on December 4, 2014) Coalition Against Forest Pests. 2013. Written Public Testimony from Members of the Coalition Against Forest Pests. March 20, 2013. www.nacdnet.org/doc_download/1189-aphis-fy14-coalition-testimony

To comment on this research update, suggest research topics of interest, or pass along a piece of research-based information that might be of interest to your industry colleagues, please email us at research@ MNLA.biz.

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➾ MNLA news

2015

Congratulations!

Congratulations to the following individuals who were honored with MNLA Awards at the 2015 Awards Gala on January 14, 2015 at the Millennium Hotel.

Lonnee receives her award from MNLA President Heidi Heiland.

Debbie is the first woman to be inducted into the MNLA Hall of Fame.

Lonnee Inducted to MNLA Hall of Fame

Pellett Receives MNLA Special Service Award Posthumously

Debbie Lonnee of Bailey Nurseries, Inc. in St. Paul, was inducted into the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association Hall of Fame during the MNLA Awards Gala held on Jan. 14, 2015.

Harold Pellett was honored, posthumously, with a Special Service Award during the MNLA Awards Gala on Jan. 14, 2015. Pellett of Eden Prairie, formerly of Minnetrista, passed away July 22, 2014.

The MNLA Hall of Fame honors leaders who have given long-time service to the association and the industry. The commitment and sacrifice made by these leaders will have dramatically improved the activities, stature or services of the association.

“Lonnee is a consummate professional whose volunteerism with the MNLA stretches back 30 years. She is sought locally and nationally as a speaker, writer, and resource for her incredible plant knowledge,” said MNLA President Heidi Heiland, Heidi’s Lifestyle Gardens.

For the last twenty-one years, she has worked at Bailey Nurseries, Inc. in a variety of capacities including as production coordinator, working primarily with the perennial and bedding plant crops, as well as roses and woody plants. She was promoted to manager of the Planning and Administration department in 2006 and is actively involved in new plant introductions. She is currently responsible for new plant acquisitions for the company.

Lonnee has served as the president, and now past president, of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association, as well as chair of the Publications Committee and Education & Certification Committee.

She is also a member of the Perennial Plant Association, the Ohio Florists Association, and serves as the horticultural editor for Northern Gardener Magazine. In addition, she is a Trustee of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association Foundation.

Lonnee has donated countless hours to ensuring that the future of the green industry in Minnesota and nationally remains strong through volunteerism and education.

She received a bachelor’s degree in horticulture from the University of Minnesota and then spent 13 years managing a large Twin Cities garden center before landing at Bailey Nurseries, Inc.

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Pellett’s daughter, Cindy Jacobs, receives the award on Harold’s behalf.

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MNLA’s Special Service Award honors MNLA members or industry friends who have, over a long period of time, given of themselves personally and/or professionally to make the nursery and landscape business a better industry.

Pellett had a long and successful career in horticulture, including over 30 years as a professor at the University of Minnesota and a leader in research at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and Horticulture Research Center. In 1990, Harold founded the Landscape Plant Development Center with a mission of developing superior cold-hardy landscape plants.

Pellett bred and evaluated nearly 40 varieties of large trees, small flowering trees and shrubs, but is most known for 14 colors and varieties of azaleas. He introduced the Northern Lights azalea in 1978 and expanded the original pinkish-mauve hues to white, lemon yellow, peach and lilac.

During the Awards ceremony, MNLA President Heidi Heiland said, “Pellett was motivated to bring new, improved hardy plants for gardeners in cold-zone areas. MNLA members across the state will continue to benefit from his work for years to come.”

He is survived by his wife, Shelby, and all six children, 13 grandchildren, a great-grandchild and three siblings. Pellett’s daughter, Cindy Jacobs, accepted the award on his behalf.

new course New Academic Offerings from UW-River Falls CAFES The College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls has recently added three new programs to its academic array: Mallas receives his award from President Heiland.

• Horticulture — Fruit and Vegetable Sustainable Systems option • Food Processing Technology minor

Mallas Named MNLA Volunteer of the Year Matt Mallas was named Volunteer of the Year during the MNLA Awards Gala held Jan. 14, 2015. Mallas has been employed by Hedberg Landscape Supplies of Plymouth, Minn. for the last 20 years.

The MNLA Volunteer of the Year Award honors an individual who has, within the previous 18 months, risen up to make special achievements happen for the association. Working within the MNLA, this individual’s leadership and commitment will have helped significantly improve the activities, stature, or services of the association.

Mallas was honored this year because of his work to help create the Green Industry Leadership Institute. The Leadership Institute, originally conceived by Mallas, was created with a vision of a program where owners could invest in up-and-coming leaders within their company.

This unique cohort-based learning program is grounded in leadership development best practices and aims for students to leave the class taking ownership of their company’s mission and bottom line, having greater confidence in decision making, and with new skills in identifying and facilitating solutions within their company. Mallas contributed during every phase of the program formation, even helping to identify Steve and Terri Wilcox as potential facilitators.

According to MNLA President Heidi Heiland, “Matt envisioned and helped bring to fruition one of the most unique leadership offerings MNLA has ever offered. The response from current participants, industry sponsors, and the facilitators has been outstanding. The program is an invaluable tool for owners wishing to invest in the future of their green industry business.”

Mallas is currently an active member of the MNLA Networking Committee and a former member of the MNLA Hardscape Task Force, Hardscape Committee, and Stormwater Task Team. He has been serving as an MNLA volunteer for over 15 years in a variety of roles.

• Animal Science — Companion Animal emphasis The one with most applicability to MNLA members is the first.

Growing consumer interest in sustainable and locally grown foods prompted the addition of this new option within the horticulture program. UW-River Falls already offers coursework in fruit and vegetable production and has an extensive fruit research program under the direction of Professor Brian Smith.

This option integrates specific non-horticulture support courses in a systems approach. The curriculum includes fruit and vegetable production, soil and plant nutrition, plant pathology, entomology, sustainable production models, environmental issues, market distribution and market forces, human resource management and food safety. A business emphasis already exists for students in this option that might want a stronger business component.

“One of the hallmarks of this new option is to prepare our students to be able to address future changes with confidence and flexibility,” said Smith, professor of horticulture. “Upon graduating our students will be managers and owners of highly variable fruit and vegetable operations. To be successful, they must keep pace with the new technologies that emerge, ranging from growing systems and equipment to bioengineering and food safety. With the tools we provide them, our students will be able to successfully and profitably grow and market vegetables and fruits locally and globally, while educating the public and protecting the environment.”

“These programmatic changes represent the ongoing efforts of CAFES faculty and staff to be responsive to the needs and interests of our students and of the employers and industries who will ultimately hire them,” stated CAFES Dean Dale Gallenberg. “We believe these changes help address some unique opportunities and challenges for the college that have emerged in the last several years.”

In addition to his MNLA volunteer work, Mallas has been a guest speaker for Hardscape North America and was recently recruited to speak at the Mid-Atlantic Hardscape Trade Show in 2015.

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➾ gove rnment affai r s

MNLA and Invasive Ornamental Plants History

Tim Power

MNLA Government Affairs Director

• 1980’s — MNLA first became involved in the invasive ornamental plants discussion after the Minnesota Legislature listed purple loosestrife as a noxious weed. Before then, regulated noxious weeds had always been the agricultural weeds.

Purple loosestrife was the first horticultural species to be listed, followed later by common and glossy buckthorn.

• 1998 — MNLA adopted its first public policy statement on this topic, encouraging the use of native and well-adapted non-native plants and discouraging the use of invasive plants.

• 2001 — MN DNR published the pamphlet “Minnesota Invasive Nonnative Terrestrial Plants: An Identification Guide for Resource Managers”.

This pamphlet listed as invasive such horticultural plants as black locust, Norway maple, Amur maple, Japanese barberry and the Asiatic bush honeysuckles.

An updated online version, can be found here: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/terrestrialplants/index.html.

• 2002 — MNLA endorsed the St. Louis Convention’s Voluntary Code of Conduct for Nursery Professionals, which urged a series of steps, including “Where agreement has been reached among nursery associations, government, academia, and ecology and conservation organizations, phaseout existing stocks of those specific invasive species in regions where they are considered to be a threat.”

• 2009 — MNLA supported legislation that modified Minnesota’s Noxious Weed Law and created the Noxious Weed Advisory Committee (NWAC), on which MNLA now sits. NWAC advises the Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture, who holds sole authority to list and de-list regulated noxious weeds.

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• 2009 — MNLA adopted a public policy statement: “MNLA supports restrictions on plants that have negative environmental impacts, provided there has been scientific review and that the economic attributes of that plant are strongly taken into consideration.”

• 2010 — NWAC began conducting sciencebased, evidence-based plant Risk Assessments for invasiveness, including Japanese barberry starting in 2011.

Recent Updates

• The 2014 Minnesota Legislature and the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) funded the establishment of a Minnesota Terrestrial Invasive Species Research Center (MTISRC) at the University of Minnesota. The Center will “serve a lead role in terrestrial invasive species research, coordinating initiatives on prevention of establishment, early detection and rapid response, development of new control methods and technology, integrated pest management, and minimizing non-target impacts of control.

The mission of the Center will be to offer sciencebased solutions to pest invasions that ensure the protection of the state’s healthy prairies, forests, wetlands and agricultural resources.” Within this role, the Center’s faculty and researchers will conduct weed risk assessments, along with risk assessments of other taxa. The Center’s research will complement and inform the Minnesota Noxious Weed Advisory Committee and not usurp its function, but it remains to be seen how the Center’s research results might be used by state agencies and the Legislature. Expect the MTISRC to be up and functional by fall 2015.

Ongoing MTISRC funding for operations will need to come from future MN legislatures.

• I attended the second annual “Where Ecology Meets Economy” symposium at Johnson’s Nursery in Menomonee Falls, WI in September. The focus of the day was horticultural plants that are considered invasive by land managers and/or regulators.

Meeting participants included the nursery/landscape industry from SE Wisconsin along with natural resource managers and regulators. The idea of this recurring conference is to get each group to put the invasive plants issue on their own radars and to begin to understand the concerns of the other group. This discussion is particularly important for these groups (and Minnesota growers) since Wisconsin’s second round of plants has now been reviewed by Species Assessment Groups (including industry and academic reps) as a part of WI DNR’s NR40 process. New WI DNR regulations regarding some of these plants will take effect in January 2015.

Along with at least a half dozen other horticultural woody plants, the same group of 25 Japanese barberry cultivars recently declared Specially Regulated Plants in Minnesota will become illegal to sell into Wisconsin when the new rules take effect, and plants already in production within WI will be phased out for possible sale after five years. Find the Wisconsin list of species being regulated here: http://dnr.wi.gov/ topic/Invasives/classification.html and click on “Plants”.

• The Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference took place in Duluth in October. Over 650 attendees heard 150+ talks on a variety of topics, including terrestrial invasive plants.

One of the plenary speakers described California’s PlantRight program, a voluntary invasive plants approach that includes certification for nurseries that agree to not sell a specific list of mutually-agreed-upon invasive plants, keyed to California’s ecoregions. This speaker was touting a voluntary, fee-based Plant Risk Evaluation (PRE) process available to nurseries that PlantRight would like to test in other parts of the U.S. See http://ccuh.ucdavis.edu/industry/files/ invasive_plants_and_horticulture__plantright.pdf . Vetting potential plant introductions for invasiveness might significantly reduce a nursery’s risk of spending big money on a plant that later ends up being regulated as a noxious weed.

• MNLA Exec Cassie Larson returned from the annual Great Lakes Conference in October, where execs, presidents and VP’s from eight Great Lakes state and province associations compared notes. Cassie noted that there was agreement amongst participants that the states were getting their invasive species plans in order.

• The Minnesota Invasive Species Advisory Council (MISAC) is preparing to adopt an Invasive Species Best Management Practices document relating to Urban Forestry, mirroring a similar document released earlier by the Wisconsin DNR. Included in the document will be MISAC’s 2009 Invasive Species Lists, including invasive plants, developed without MNLA’s input as a part of Minnesota’s Invasive Species Management Plan.

• In September 2014, NWAC’s Listing Subcommittee recommended listing four Asiatic bush honeysuckle (Lonicera) species

and their cultivars including Arnold Red, Freedom, and Honeyrose as restricted noxious weeds, following NWAC’s formal recommendation to the Commissioner at year-end 2016.

MIPN

I have been a board member of the Midwest Invasive Plant Network (MIPN) for the last couple of years, representing the nursery industry and Minnesota. MIPN’s mission is to reduce the impact of invasive plant species in the Midwest. MIPN’s website aggregates invasive plant information from all eight MIPN states here: http://www.mipn.org/ plantlist.html. MIPN’s Minnesota information comes from the MN DNR list linked in “History” above. MIPN also hosts an excellent invasive species control database and serves as a repository for invasive species conference proceedings. Among their products are the pamphlet “Landscape Alternatives for Invasive Plants of the Midwest”, “Keep a Lookout” brochures for the Midwest and the Northern Great Plains, and “A Field Guide to Invasive Plants of the Midwest”, based on the 2001 MN DNR pamphlet but mapped for all MIPN states.

I encourage MNLA members to use MIPN’s products and to consider becoming MIPN members if you like what they are doing.

The biggest reason I like MIPN is that this organization is trying to open and cultivate the invasive ornamental plants conversation between the green industry and natural resource managers. MIPN sponsored another “Invasive Ornamental Plants” discussion in early November, where we compared six states’ weed risk assessment protocols. Several common principles were evident between the states’ approaches to weed risk assessment. However, because the different states use their protocols for different purposes (some regulatory, some purely educational), there is no plan to attempt to get the various states’ processes or outcomes aligned.

At the same conference, the group discussed (without finding consensus) a new draft standard on the creation of invasive plant lists that is now being developed by ASTM International (formerly the American Society of Testing and Materials). The idea of this draft ASTM standard is that new green codes such as the International Green Code might prohibit the use of invasive plants in new building designs, but if no applicable invasive plant list exists, that piece of the code is meaningless. The draft ASTM standard would provide a way of developing that list. It is interesting to note that none of the states’ weed risk assessment protocols discussed at the MIPN event would meet the requirements of the draft ASTM standard. I believe this ASTM standard will be forthcoming, with or without MIPN’s endorsement.

Where Are We Now?

MNLA joined the invasive ornamental plants discussion thirty years ago because we were blindsided by a noxious weed process that we were not a part of and whose conclusions we disagreed with. Now that MDA has established the Noxious Weed Advisory Committee and MNLA is involved, we have a say in what plants get regulated, after helping to develop plant risk assessments that are science-based and that consider the economic value of those plants. More importantly, we are now better connected to other NWAC stakeholder groups and more aware of their invasive plant concerns. I am convinced of the legitimacy of that NWAC risk assessment process because it includes february 15

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➾ g o ve rnment affai rs

extensive literature review and it uses hard evidence like that found in the Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System (EDDMapS) database. It was EDDMapS data (see www.eddmaps.org) that led me to mapped Japanese barberry infestations at Afton State Park and several other St. Croix Valley locations in 2011.

I believe Minnesota is on track in how it currently regulates noxious weeds, but regulated plants are only a subset of the plants considered invasive by natural resource managers like MN DNR. There is a lot of momentum locally, regionally and nationally to research and aggregate invasive plants information, and then to use that information to act more aggressively to reduce the impact of those species on our environment and our economy. I think MNLA members would be wise to review the MN DNR list linked above and ensure that they are not only avoiding the regulated plants, but considering whether and how the non-regulated plants on DNR’s invasive species lists fit in their operations and for their customers. For example, Amur maple is a reliable plant that functions well in the compacted urban soils of managed landscapes, a trait not shared by any MN-native understory maple. I don’t believe this plant should be regulated, but it can be invasive if planted in areas where its seeds are not controlled by mowing. If we continue to sell this plant, should we be providing customers with a BMP sheet describing how to avoid infestation of nearby natural areas?

MNLA’s investment in the invasive plants issue continues to grow. We have gone from blissful unawareness to being an integral part of an effective and ongoing risk assessment process. Our members and leaders are betterinformed on this issue than ever before. We are at the table at NWAC and the Minnesota Invasive Species Advisory Council, and our opinions matter to those groups. MNLA will continue to share new research results and regulatory/legislative news with its members about this important issue, and will advocate for our industry both in the risk assessment process and in mitigating the effects of any regulation that occurs in the future. In return, I believe that MNLA members should consider potential invasiveness in decisions they make in building and using their plant palettes.

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The 3 Most Common Green Industry

Violations of Employment Law Patrick McGuiness | Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC

E

mployment law is a complicated topic and one that is very boring for a lot of people. Personally, I find it fascinating and consider myself lucky to be able to do so. There are many different laws, rules & regulations which apply to green industry companies.

Sorting through all of that red tape & legislation can be hard even for attorneys. So, this month, in order to convey as much useful information as possible to readers of The Scoop, I decided to share the most common employment law violations I see in the green industry.

1. Misclassification of Workers: This is a huge problem for the industry. Many companies do not want the extra work that comes along with hiring employees and figuring out payroll.

So instead of hiring their workers, they treat them as ‘Independent Contractors’ or ‘Subcontractors’. There is a common misconception that it is compliant to have a worker sign an independent contractor agreement and issue them an IRS form 1099 at the end of the season. Unless a worker is truly an independent contractor, taking these steps will not matter if the business is ever audited by the Department of Labor. When DOL comes calling, they look at the circumstances under which the work was taking place. If the worker is paid by the hour, does not bring their own tools to the jobsite, and their work is controlled by the business, chances are they will be classified as an employee by DOL. Then, the business will owe back taxes on the worker and possibly back

overtime pay in addition to any fines and penalties which are assessed by DOL. 2. Not Paying Overtime: Time and again people tell me that they don’t think it is fair that they should have to pay overtime for seasonal work. Whether or not it is fair could be the subject of a very long discussion. What matters, however, is that it doesn’t matter if it is fair, just that it is not legally compliant. Even if the employees agree to not being paid overtime, that does not make it compliant. During a DOL audit, unpaid overtime will be assessed for any hours over 40 in a given week, regardless of how well paid the employee is at their regular pay rate. If the DOL audit is random, the assessment will go back two years. If the audit is triggered by an employee complaint, the audit can go back three years.

Bottom line is that employees must be paid overtime unless they qualify for an exemption from overtime. Employees whose job is performing labor are generally not going to qualify for any exemptions. While there are some exemptions, many times they are applied incorrectly which leads me to the third common violation of employment law.

3. Paying Salary to Foremen: Whether it is to provide financial security for their foremen, or to avoid dealing with overtime pay, many companies believe that it is legally compliant to pay their foreman a salary and not pay them overtime.

Unfortunately, this is wrong. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires that all workers that perform manual february 15

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➾ empl oyment law

If a DOL audit takes place, they will assess back overtime pay for salaried foremen, no matter how well paid the foremen are. They calculate back pay based on the hours which were worked in excess of 40 for all weeks that went over 40 hours. The assessed rates are generally time and a half, so with wellpaid foremen, things can add up very quickly. labor must be paid overtime. The definition of manual labor includes things like operating a skid steer and on site supervision of other workers.

If a DOL audit takes place, they will assess back overtime pay for salaried foremen, no matter how well paid the foremen are. They calculate back pay based on the hours which were worked in excess of 40 for all weeks that went over 40 hours. The assessed rates are generally time and a half, so with well-paid foremen, things can add up very quickly.

These are the most common violations of employment laws which I see in the green industry. While there are some exemptions and special circumstances which allow businesses to pay less in overtime, they are not a good fit for all companies. Before the season gets in full swing, take a look at the employment practices of your company. Do any of these issues look like they may need addressing? Take action now so that you do not regret it later if you are audited by the Department of Labor.

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 employment law or other legal matters, please contact Zlimen & McGuiness, PLLC at 651206-3203 or pmcguiness@zmattorneys.com

welcome new members Dream Green Irrigation And Lawn Care Waverly, MN David Parks, 763-463-7818 KG Landscape Management Blaine, MN Jeremy Bydlon, 763-568-7251 Lenhart Property Management, Inc. Maple Grove, MN Jennifer Lenhart, 763- 205-3963 McAlpine Landscapes Coon Rapids, MN Ryan McAlpine, 763-486-9157 Mid-American Holding Company Eagan, MN Brent Sinn, 612-483-4884 Northern Arborists Lake Elmo, MN Gary Wemeier, 651-436-1367

Straight Line Building Contractors, Inc. Osceola, WI Ryan Lee, 651- 341-7514 TCOS Services Plymouth, MN Treacy Welch, 763-404-4684 U.S. Lawns Brooklyn Park, MN Kent Smith, 763-273-4000 Urban Landworks Bloomington, MN Matt Jensen, 952-884-1672 Watson Appliance Stillwater, MN Walter Watson, 651-430-2300 Windy Ridge Ranch LLC Stillwater, MN Mark Ward, 651-436-6557

DOWNLOAD sales tax sheets Minnesota Revenue published updates to two key sales tax fact sheets in 2012.

Nursery and Greenhouse Production: Sales Tax Fact Sheet 174 Nursery and greenhouse production farms that grow trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, potted plants and other plants for sale ultimately at retail qualify for the agricultural production and farm machinery exemptions. (The definitions of farm machinery and agricultural production are located on page two.) Nursery and greenhouse operations that store plant stock waiting to be sold at retail or house inventory for landscapers do not qualify for the agricultural production and farm machinery exemptions. Please download the latest version of Sales Tax Fact Sheet 174 (last updated in May 2012) from http://www.revenue.state. mn.us/businesses/sut/factsheets/FS174.pdf.

Farm Machinery: Sales Tax Fact Sheet 106 New and used farm machinery is exempt from sales tax. To qualify for the exemption, the machinery must meet the definition of “farm machinery” and must be used directly and principally in “agricultural production.” The definitions of farm machinery and agricultural production are in the fact sheet.

Please download the latest version of Sales Tax Fact Sheet 106 (last updated in December 2012) from http://www.revenue.state.mn.us/businesses/sut/ factsheets/FS106.pdf.

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Julie Moir Messervy

Jody Shilan

The 2015 Northern Green Expo offered an incredible educational value for one low price. Thanks to all exhibitors and attendees for making the 2015 Expo a success!

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enter

Generously Supported by:

Kit Welchlin

Fred Rozumalski

Kris Bachtell Greg Pierceall

Chris LeConte

Joe Baer

Marla Spivak

John Ball

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Michael J. Hurdzan

Steve Bailey

www.NorthernGreenExpo.org

Sponsors Thank You Feb Scoop 2015.indd 1

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1/26/2015 9:09:47 AM

TAKE PART IN THE

GREEN INDUSTRY DAY ON THE HILL Wednesday, March 4, 2015 State Capitol, St. Paul

All Minnesota green industry professionals are invited to attend this event. In order for MNLA to coordinate appointments with your legislators, please register no later than February 20.

“I’ve never done this before. What can I expect?”

• A friendly face-to-face conversation with someone who can make a real impact in your business • To partner with other experienced green industry professionals • To be equipped with the information you need to talk intelligently about the issues

Day on the Hill Success Stories From Past Years: • • • • • •

Helped fix subcontractor indemnification loophole in construction contracts.

Protected nursery interests in invasive species discussions.

Protected Green Acres status for nurseries and greenhouses.

Gained EAB rapid response money plus tree removal and replacement money.

Reduced update intervals for pesticide applicator training manuals.

Held back anti-business immigration enforcement measures.

To register, go to the MNLA.biz event calendar and download the form on the Day on the Hill event page. Please reserve your spot by February 20th for the March 4th event.

Questions? Call Tim Power at 651-633-4987, or e-mail tim@mnla.biz.

➾ mnla awards gala

GALA

The evening of Wednesday, January 14, 2015 was a night to celebrate MNLA. We honored Matt Mallas as the Volunteer of the Year, gave a posthumous Special Service Award to Harold Pellett, and inducted Debbie Lonnee into the MNLA Hall of Fame. Plus, 13 individuals were recognized for completing the Green Industry Leadership Institute, and 20 projects received an MNLA Landscape Award.

There was a project gallery that provided space to discuss the award-winning projects.

The team from Phillips Garden won three Landscape Awards, plus Tom Kerby (second from left) won the Judges’ Choice Award.

Lincoln Danforth, Yardscapes, Inc. grabs a bite with Mel Johnson and Tim Johnson of Southview Design.

Dylan Reid, Molly Feigal-Barko, and Kenny Barko from Field Outdoor Spaces enjoyed the night.

Scott Solomonson, Living Space Landscapes; Glenn Switzer, Switzer Nursery & Landscaping; and Julie King, Sage Landscape Design converse while MNLA Sales Representative Faith Jensen peeks through.

Ben Cooper, Rainbow Treecare and Adam Bachman, Bachmans, Inc. were part of the first class of the Green Industry Leadership Institute and were given Certificates of Completion at this year’s Gala.

Thanks to THE VOLUNTEERS ON THE LANDSCAPE AWARDS TASK TEAM: Eric Baldus, TerraVista Landscape and Design Julie King, Sage Landscape Design Colleen Moran, Southview Design David Sonka, Landscape Design Studios John Bailey, Gordon Bailey, Jr., Fernando Villafan Roldan, and Dan Bailey, celebrate Fernando’s completion of the 2014 Leadership Institute.

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Each 2015 Landscape Award winner receives a project poster, which are first displayed at Expo and at the Awards Gala.

Go to MNLA.biz to see the full list of Landscape Award winners, including a link to a project gallery. Look for short profiles of winning projects in upcoming issues of The Scoop.

A Deeper Shade of Green Local Genetic Origins

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Call us first for all your native planting needs

➾ networking news

Networking news Networking at the Campfires at the 2015 Northern Green Expo A number of MNLA networking groups met during Expo in the new campfire areas — a great gathering place! A big thanks to our group leaders and these Expo speakers who led these meetings: Julie Moir Messervy, Greg Pierceall, John Ball, Steve Bailey, Jody Shilan and Kris Bachtell.

upcoming meetings

The Commercial Arborist/Treecare Networking Group meets the third Thursday of every month at 4pm. Visit MNLA.biz to find out which brewery/tap room they’re going to this month!

February 10: Nursery Networking Group to Meet at Bailey Nurseries MNLA’s Nursery Networking Group will meet at 9:30am at Bailey Nurseries (1325 Bailey Road, St. Paul, MN 55119) for a guided discussion on trees and a tour of Bailey’s coolers. RSVP at MNLA.biz or contact Brenda Wickenhauser directly (651-260-0294, brenda.wickenhauser@baileynursery.com). Rock Kelly and John Daniels from Bachman’s Wholesale will speak and lead an open ended discussion on liner options, the supply/demand cycle and neonics. Tim Power will discuss hardiness zones and MDA’s “Non-hardy” Plant Tag Requirements.

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www.ceresenvironmental.com

Store Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Open Saturday during the months of May and June from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm.

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Store Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Open Saturday during the months of May and June from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm.

➾ last word

Meet Marceleen

The Common Table team.

Marceleen is second from left.

(Photo credit: Andrew Tissue)

Meet Marceleen Mosher, the newest member of the MNLA team and the new Foundation Program Coordinator. She brings a wealth of experience in everything from fundraising and project coordination to research and marketing. She worked at a Minneapolis based architecture firm, Cuningham Group, for nearly nine years and has come to us most recently from an environmental nonprofit serving the St. Croix River and its watershed. Marceleen is an avid researcher and serves as a research assistant for an Augsburg professor. The duo’s main focus is environmental related messaging. They will be presenting their latest research at the 2015 Popular Culture Association’s communication conference in New Orleans, LA. She is currently preparing for graduate school in environmental communications.

Marceleen has volunteered at a number of organizations around the metro area, including: The League of Women Voters, Twin Cities in Motion, Citizen’s League, and ACES. Her connection with Citizen’s League inspired her to gather a group of local foodies and designers to get the word out about local foods at an exhibit at the State Fair. The exhibit,

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The Common Table, was an effort to bring together local growers and purveyors of all things “local foods,” to help educate the public about the many ways there are to support the food system in our community. Her love of running has led her to Twin Cities in Motion’s Twin Cities Marathon where she has been an association member for the last six years. She has served on a number of committees, from working both the race and the expo, to helping to award scholarship dollars.

Marceleen joins the MNLA Foundation with a passion for promoting Green Industry careers. Her passion for community and the environment will be useful in her efforts to get kids excited about working to make our planet a greener place.

While she has no gardening skills, she has been known to keep the plants on her desk alive, and has been challenged to do so at the MNLA offices. She is a recent graduate of Augsburg College, where she maintained a 4.0 GPA while working full-time, graduating summa cum laude with departmental honors. She lives in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin with her husband, Jason Pearson; her two stepchildren, Ava and Miles; and her cat, Midge.

MINNESOTA NURSERY & LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION

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CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL

EXAMINATION now in a new format

Prove what you know.

Become a Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association Certified Professional.

When and where is the final 2015 exam?

March 10, 2015, held at the TIES Event Center, 1667 Snelling Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55108.

When & Where?

Who is eligible?

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Who? You are eligible to register for the exam if you meet the following requirements: • Have either two years of study in an accredited post-secondary nursery and/or landscape program that includes a structured internship, OR • A minimum of 2000 hours in nursery or landscape-related employment.

A signature of an educational advisor or work supervisor is required on the exam registration form to verify completion of the prerequisite.

SSIO

What’s new about the Certification Exam?

What?

The exam will now be given in a brand new electronic format with immediate results and integrated photos and videos. The MNLA Certification Exam is still a two-part exam: you must pass a Basic Knowledge Exam and a specialty of your choosing (Landscape, Garden Center or Grower) to become MNLA Certified. To maintain their certification status, all individuals must compile at least 18 continuing education points every three years.

HOW TO PREPARE Use these resources to prepare for the exam:

• • • •

Online chapters Practice test Plant I.D. webinar Watch for more online training modules coming soon!

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