The Scoop Online - September 2015 by Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association

Successful Organic Lawn Care

Also Inside

Careers in Horticulture

Member Profile Landscape Awards Networking News

GREAT SERVICE It’s about giving customers the…

Vol: 38 No: 9 Sept 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. 9 Sept 2015

CONTENTS 15

56 30

IN THIS ISSUE 8

Events

10 From the Executive Director How Does Your Company’s Compensation Stack Up? 12 Member Profile Cook Water Farms

15 Creating a Successful Organic Lawn Care Program How do you organically achieve lush green grass that’s less susceptible to drought and disease? Shay Lunseth explains.  

20 Wire Baskets: Retain or Remove? A report on how retaining or removing wire baskets impacts planting time, root-ball condition, and early growth.    

30 SECTION: Careers in Horticulture Dr. Jim Calkins, Dr. Mary H. Meyer, and Scott Grams chime in on the state of recruiting personnel to the green industry. 

53 Ready for Winter Diana Grundeen writes about the wisdom of using the winter months for planning, learning, and slowing down (not stopping!). 

59 Wow Your Customers Northern Green Expo 2016 keynote speaker Dennis Snow gives three keys for delivering great customer service. 

69 6 Wishes of a Dying Landscaper If you die with the most toys and fastest cars, have you succeeded? 

 Landscape & Hardscape Install & Design  Garden Services & Landscape Management  Garden Centers  Growers: Nursery & Greenhouse  Irrigation & Water Management  Arborists & Tree Services  All

46 Out & About Photos from visits with MNLA members. 56 Widmer Golf Tournament Celebrating 25 years of green industry fundraising. 64 Pollinator Research & Challenge & 67 Horticulture industry-funded research is underway while the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge begins. 75 Garden Party The garden was full of unique and interesting plants, and the party featured a harpist, complimentary drinks, and desserts. 78 Landscape Awards How does the program work, and why does entering a project make sense for you? 84 Networking News Networking groups took advantage of the summer weather to get outside and have some fun! The Scoop, September 2015, Issue 9, 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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MNLA .biz

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

mike mcnamara

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

jeff pilla, mnla-cp

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

nick sargent

Sargent’s Landscape Nursery, Inc. 507-289-0022 • njsargent@sargentsgardens.com

cassie larson, cae

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

STAFF DIRECTORY

executive director:

Cassie Larson, CAE • cassie@mnla.biz

membership director & trade show manager:

Mary Dunn, CEM • mary@mnla.biz communications director: Jon Horsman • jon@mnla.biz education/cert manager: Susan Flynn • susan@mnla.biz legislative affairs manager: Tim Power • tim@mnla.biz regulatory affairs manager: Jim Calkins • jim@mnla.biz administrative asst: Gayle Anderson • gayle@mnla.biz accountant: Norman Liston • norman@mnla.biz

foundation program coordinator: Megan Buchanan • megan@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

MNLA .biz

september 15

AD LIST

Volume 38 No. 9 Sept 2015

➾ S E CT I O N TITLE

A Top Notch Equipment ................................................................................... 83 Albert J. Lauer, Inc. ........................................................................................... 17 All Stone Solutions ........................................................................................... 68 Anchor Block Company .................................................................................... 42 Ancom Communication & Technical Center .................................................... 28 Anderson Nurseries, Inc. .................................................................................. 72 Arborjet ............................................................................................................ 47 Aspen Equipment ............................................................................................... 4 Bachman’s Wholesale Nursery & Hardscapes .................................................. 11 Berger ............................................................................................................... 14 Borgert Products, Inc. ....................................................................................... 77 Bullis Insurance Agency .................................................................................... 80 Carlin Horticultural Supplies/ProGreen Plus ..................................................... 22 Central Landscape Supply ................................................................................ 80 Cushman Motor Co. Inc ................................................................................... 61 D. Hill Nursery Co. ............................................................................................ 43 Dayton Bag & Burlap ........................................................................................ 80 Edney Distributing Co., Inc. ............................................................................. 32 Erosion Products, Inc. ....................................................................................... 72 Everris ............................................................................................................... 40 Fury Motors ...................................................................................................... 63 Gardenworld Inc. .............................................................................................. 72 Gertens Wholesale / JRK Seed .......................................................................... 2 Glacial Ridge Growers ...................................................................................... 22 GM Fleet and Commercial ................................................................................. 3 Gopher State One-Call ..................................................................................... 39 Haag Companies, Inc. ...................................................................................... 19 Hedberg Landscape & Masonry Supplies ........................................................ 58 Hiway Federal Credit Union ............................................................................. 54 Jeff Belzer Chevrolet .................................................................................. 44–45 Jokela Power Equipment .................................................................................. 39 Klaus Nurseries ................................................................................................. 68 Kubota Dealers ................................................................................................. 29 Landscape Alternatives Inc. .............................................................................. 68 Lano Equipment, Inc. ....................................................................................... 72 Maguire Agency ............................................................................................... 43 McKay Nurseries, Inc. ....................................................................................... 80 Meacham Nursery ............................................................................................ 32 Midwest Groundcovers LLC ............................................................................. 66 Minnesota Propane Association ....................................................................... 42 MTI Distributing, Inc. ........................................................................................ 22 Northern Family Farms ..................................................................................... 22 Northern Salt Inc. ............................................................................................. 37 Out Back Nursery ............................................................................................. 65 Plaisted Companies ............................................................................................ 7 Purple Wave Auction ........................................................................................ 28 RDO Equipment Co. ........................................................................................ 70 Resultants for Business, Inc. (RFB) .................................................................... 61 Rock Hard Landscape Supply division of Brian’s Lawn & Landscaping, Inc. .... 65 The Builders Group .......................................................................................... 40 Tri-State Bobcat, Inc. ............................................................................ 14, 52, 77 Truck Utilities & Mfg. Co. .................................................................................. 68 Unilock .............................................................................................................. 24 Unique Lighting Systems .................................................................................. 74 United Label & Sales ........................................................................................ 65 University of Wisconsin — River Falls ............................................................... 65 Versa-Lok Midwest ........................................................................................... 71 Wheeler Landscape Supply .............................................................................. 18 Ziegler CAT ......................................................................................... Back Cover

➾ C ALE N DAR

SEPT10 FOSTER’S SPRING MARKET Mayo Civic Center, Rochester

➾

SEPT 15–16 FIELD COVER AND PRODUCTION TOUR

MNLA Event

SEPT23 MNLA SHOOTOUT

➾

Minneapolis

Fostersinc.com RSVP Today!

MNLA.biz 651-633-4987

Americanhort.org Join the AmericanHort tour of growing facilities in the Minneapolis region. It will combine classroom education and tours of nursery operations.

Experience firsthand the latest and greatest the lawn and garden industry has to offer for the 2016 spring season.

South St. Paul Rod & Gun Club

The MNLA Shootout is a fun sporting clays charity event that raises money for the MNLA Foundation scholarship program.

MNLA Event

OCT27 GREENHOUSE/ NURSERY GROWER PESTICIDE RECERTIFICATION Midland Hills Country Club, Roseville erwin001@umn.edu; 612-385-6863 This pesticide recertification conference is a joint effort between the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA), and is tailored to the needs of the greenhouse and nursery industries. Topics relevant to both flower and nursery producers will be presented.

MNLA .biz

september 15

NOV 9–13 ➾

2015 IRRIGATION SHOW & EDUCATION CONFERENCE Long Beach, CA Irrigation.org Keep up with the wave of new technologies, best practices and innovative ideas in irrigation at the 2015 Irrigation Show and Education Conference.

MNLA Event

NOV20 ➾

PESTICIDE RECERTIFICATION WORKSHOP TIES Conference Center, St. Paul MNLA.biz 651-633-4987 This workshop meets the MDA Pesticide Applicator Recertification Requirements for categories A (Core) and E (Turf and Ornamentals). This is the last opportunity to recertify in 2015.

2015 MNLA seminars generously supported by John Deere Landscapes

SEPT27 ➾

MNLA Event

2015 URBAN FORESTRY WORKSHOP: Invasive Plant and Earthworm Identification and Management

OCT 17–19

Dunn County Judicial Center, Menomonie, WI

LaCrosse Center, LaCrosse, WI

PARKING LOT & SIDEWALK MAINTENANCE with Reduced Environmental Impacts

stcroix.uwex.edu

umisc.net

Workshop & Certification

This one-day workshop will focus on identification, regulation and management options for common and not so common invasive plants and earthworms, with an urban forest emphasis.

The goal of UMISC is to strengthen management of invasive species, especially prevention, control, and containment.

MNLA Classroom, Roseville

OCT21

UPPER MIDWEST INVASIVE SPECIES CONFERENCE

➾

MNLA.biz 651-633-4987 Attendees will learn about the impacts winter maintenance has on stormwater, lakes and streams. The training will teach how to reduce these impacts through adoption of more efficient practices.

MNLA Event

JAN12 SUPER TUESDAY

➾

MNLA Event

Minneapolis Convention Center MNLA.biz 651-633-4987 Attend one of the excellent pre-Expo educational sessions. See more on page 51.

➾

JAN 13–15 NORTHERN GREEN EXPO Minneapolis Convention Center Northerngreenexpo.org

KEY:

Event Education ➾

Attend the premier event for green industry professionals in the northern region. Exhibit contracts are available. See more on page 35.

All information on these and other industry events are online at MNLA.biz. september 15

MNLA .biz

➾ F R OM THE EXECUTIVE DI R EC TO R

How Does Your Company’s Compensation Stack Up? It’s been a long-time challenge for nursery and landscape businesses to find the best ways to fairly compensate employees while still attracting and retaining the most desirable candidates.

Careers in Horticulture

Successful Organic Lawn Care

Also Inside

underpay, and employees will eventually look for a better offer. Overpay, and your budgets and profitability Cassie Larson will suffer. That’s why the Minnesota Nursery & MNLA Executive Director Landscape Association is launching the 2015–2016 Wage Survey, and we encourage you to participate. Don’t allow others to determine the market for you! Questions concerning compensation resources are one of the most frequently asked questions received from members (and prospective members) by association staff. The MNLA Board of Directors has responded and has contracted with a local firm to complete a wage CHECK IT OUT survey on behalf of the association in the fall of 2015. Pages 30–43 of this The survey will be available and sent electronically issue is a Careers in Horticulture section, to members in October 2015. Companies will have with research and approximately 30 days to input their data before the advice on recruiting survey is closed. The compiled analysis is scheduled to personnel to the be released in January 2016. green industry. Complete the survey to:

Member Profile Landscape Awards Networking News

• Take advantage of significant savings — member participants will receive a FREE copy of the compiled data/report!

• Analyze and interpret the data to prepare your 2016 budgets. Your participation does more than increase the accuracy of industry benchmarks. It increases the overall quality of the data and can influence your bottom line. All responses to the survey will be strictly confidential. No individual responses will be identified and only a summary of the aggregate data will be produced. The data will be managed directly by Readex Research, the third party that will tabulate the data and produce the final industry report. All survey data will be kept secured. Please watch for the survey this fall and plan to participate. The results are only as good as the number of participants. It will be worth your time to help your company’s bottom line.

CASSIE LARSON can

be reached at: cassie@mnla.biz.

GREAT SERVICE It’s about giving customers the…

Vol: 38 No: 9 Sept 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

ON THE COVER

Our cover article this month is from Dennis Snow, the 2016 Northern Green Expo opening keynote speaker. Snow’s customer service abilities were honed over 20 years with the Walt Disney World Company. There, he developed his passion for service excellence and the experience he brings to the worldwide speaking and consulting he does today. In this article and in his keynote address, Snow will discuss why creating a culture of customer service is imperative no matter where you work or what you do.

MNLA .biz

september 15

➾ ME MBER PROFILE

MEMBER PROFILE CO O K WATER FAR M S Katie Mills Giorgio

Photos courtesy of Cook Water Farms

C O M PAN Y SN APSH O T

Company Name: Home Sown Gardens, LLC Owner: C O MTami PANGallagher Y SN APSH O T Date Company 2007Farms Company Name:started: Cook Water Location: Eagan, Owner: Mack andMinnesota Cindy Cook Number of Employees Peak Season: 10 Date Company started:in1990 Areas Served: Twin Cities South Metro Location: Askov, MN Member of Category: Professional Gardening Number Employees in Peak Season: 12 Services Websites: www.homesowngardens.com Areas Served: St. Paul, Minnesota Member Category: Greenhouse/Herbaceous Grower; Landscape, Greenhouse, Nursery Supply Center; Nursery Grower; Retail Nursery/ Garden Center Website: www.cookwaterfarms.com

Tami Gallagher grew up “picking her dinner” from her childhood backyard. In 2007, Mack Cookturned is a fisherman by training. In fact Gallagher her passion for gardening he spent a good part of his career operating into Home Sown Gardens, offering garden a rainbow trout fishery. maintenance, restoration, vegetable gardening, renewal design for existing planters, BUT WHILE SUPPLYING A FRIEND WITH WATERbeds PLANTS and to landscape a pond, Cook and his wife Cindy — who has a botany degree to boot — and personal garden coaching.

discovered they had a knack and passion for growing water plants. the realized that many of her clients were referencing their residential fish,” said Cook. gardens as “messy” — and she knew that her upbringing, passion Cook Water Farms grows hundreds varieties ofthem. water plants for gardening, and now horticulture educationofcould assist that they sell wholesale to other garden centers and clients throughout Minnesota and the Fivewith yearsThe ago, they also Q: Tami, thanks for taking theMidwest. time to talk Scoop. opened a retail location in St.Sown Paul. Gardens? “We want to get as many of the What’s new lately at Home water plants as possible the hands of our customers,” Cook A: “We are adding a newinto service — edible gardens. This entails explained. the design, planning and planting of vegetable and herb gardens.

ORIGINALLY BUSINESS AS A PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER, Gallagher “One thingINled to another and the plants took off better than

We said can offer stand-alone, raised beds as a part of an existing He it’s hard to pick a favorite waterorplant, but acknowledges garden.” that certain plants do have a special place in his heart. “The Tina water lilythis has service an unbelievable It’s one of those plants Q: Why and why fragrance. now? that every year when I see the first few blooms I’ve got to go over A: “Home Sown Gardens has been asked to provide it and edible and bend down and take a strong whiff of the bloom. It takes me gardens have been in the media a lot lately. Eating healthy and right back to when we opened the business.”

MNLA.biz MNLA .bizseptember august january 14 13 15

When you are in business, competition can be a dirty word, but every business person knows that competition can be healthy. It forces you to stay on top of your game and to innovate and to move forward.

Q. Aquaculture is indeed a niche market. Tell us about some of the innovative ways that enable you to do what you do?

local is very popular. We wanted to draw extra attention to it and what better place to get your vegetables and herbs than your backyard? We expect to serve residential customers with our edible gardens, but we are also open to other types of clients.” Q: How much do education and certifications play a role in Home Sown Gardens? Top: Purple Fantasy, intersubgeneric A: “Education and an certifications play a waterlily cross (a hardy-tropical hybrid). large role in our business. I feel that it Middle: checking one ofofCook Water adds toMack the professionalism a company. Farm’s 130 varieties of water lilies. I am an MNLA Certified Landscape Bottom: Mack and stands with Gardener the umbrella palms. Professional Master and a number of my employees have horticulture degrees and certifications. Q. you for making ThisMack, makesthank our clients feel more time to talk with Theknowing Scoop.that So tell us, what is comfortable we have a water farm? knowledge in their gardens. Continuing education for our company.” A. We haveisahuge full spectrum of water plants that people might use in their landscaped Q: What makes Home Sown Gardens ponds that we have grown on our farm in distinct among its competition? greenhouses. We have floating water plants A: all weplants. do. WeWe arealso highly and“Gardening submergediswater specialized in the garden beds. Many have 120 varieties of shallow water plants. other companies have other services And we can’t forget about water lilies.but At we focus solely on gardening. I don’t Cook Water Farms we have 144 varieties look at there lot of competition of water lilies,being both a tropical and hardy.

A. Water plants are a fairly new niche and endeavor and there are very few types of equipment that you can use out there. You have to more or less invent your own. We have manufactured all our own carts that we use in the aisles of our greenhouses. They have to be specialized because our greenhouses consist mainly of ponds and we have to be able to go between them. Of course, the ponds themselves have to be constructed so they can grow the plants. It’s not something you see in catalogs. You have to design and make your own. And we designed a recirculating system for our ponds. We grow fish and then we recirculate that water into the plant ponds so the plants can take advantage of the ammonia that is being — there isbyenough forThe all of us. We excreted the fish. plants will are confident in the fact that we are in remove that from the water, and experts the gardening and we refer other work to the resulting water can go back to the fish. experts in those respective fields.” Q. What do you enjoy most about what Q: youWhat do? is the number 1 reason that a client will call Home Sown Gardens? A. That’s a tough question because there’s A: “Atolotenjoy. of ourOn clients have had Ialike life just a lot the one hand, circumstance that has pulled them working with the plants themselves.away I like from caring garden. They willget seeing how for theytheir grow and how they usually the and garden beenplants throughcall theafter season the has finished neglected for a few years. We like toother take when they are flowering. But on the the burden out of the garden for them so hand, I like seeing the plants get into the that it can bring joy again. We will startand a hands of the people who have ponds regular for them, too, if can put maintenance them in their plan backyard and baby that something areand seeking.” themisthrough the they season enjoy them. It fulfilling to example see the plants in yoursucQ:isWhat is an of a recent customers’ hands enjoying cess story for Home Sownthem. Gardens? A: a client a steep Q. “We Whatrecently makes had Cook Waterwith Farms backyard that included overgrowth distinct among the competition? and lots of scrub We collaborated A. Well that’strees. an interesting questionwith too, a hardscape contractor on the because we actually don’t haveproject. any direct The challenge for in usthe wasMidwest. to come We up with competition here are a plant plan that worked with the steep one of the only wholesale producers and area. Theofclient wanted to attractand retailers wateralso plants in Minnesota birds and wildlife and incorporate many the five state area. It’s a unique position. of the features ofbusiness, the former garden. We When you are in competition cleared theword, garden thebusiness hardscape can be aout dirty butand every contractor did the hardscapes and person knows that competition canthen be

healthy. It forces you to stay on top of your game and to innovate and to move forward. If you don’t have that, there’s always the threat of getting lazy and not we completed the garden and plants. innovating. We have, over the years, had Now we get to enjoy it as well when we to force ourselves to keep the standards are back for scheduled maintenance!” high because we don’t have that competition make us do Q: What hasto been a key toso. the success of Home Sown Gardens? Q. What are some other business tactics A: “We always keep evolving. There was that you’ve relied on in running Cook a point when we had both the organizing Water Farms over the past few decades? and gardening companies and we A. Organization is at the top. We have to couldn’t keep up with the demands of organize to get our plants to grow both. The gardening was more lucrative properly. And the plants truly dictate that. and that’s where my passion was, so we They have their own schedule and their evolved to grow Home Sown Gardens and own requirements. They tell us what close the organizing business. Another key needs to be done when. So we form the to our success is that we have awesome, business around that. I do think of the dedicated employees who care about our product as a living thing and I have a clients and their gardens.” certain level of respect for the product. We also always to beemployees honest withand our Q: How do youwant manage customers and give them something at a retain a quality staff? fair“Iprice. theclose bottom you A: haveAnd a very knit line staff.is Itthat feels always need to be concerned withI believe quality. more like family than co-workers. it is like that because I am invested, which Q. How has being a member of MNLA in turns makes them feel like they want helped you in running Cook Water Farms? to work to the same level. I try to be a A. In the early days there was the trade good role model and have a good work show (now the Green Expo) that certainly environment, which keeps employees did give us a great deal of exposure and coming back. We all believe in making allowed us to meet people in the trade the world a better place, one garden at and build a customer list. We used that as a time!” a springboard into the rest of our business when wehas were starting out. you through Q: How MNLA helped your journey to start Home Sown Q. What are some of the most important Gardens and now grow the business? lessons you have learned while in this A: “I love being a member of MNLA. business? The educational events are fantastic. We A. You have to be true to the plants and attend the Northern Green Expo, we use follow their schedule. And you also have the Job Board and the vehicle discounts to be true to your market and customers. and gas cards. It’s a great resource and The ability to marry those two things is adds to our professionalism. MNLA does very special and it either makes or breaks so much for the green industry.” you. It has been a fun several years. This isn’t your regular greenhouse down the block. It’s a little unique. INTERESTED IN BEING PROFILED IN THE SCOOP? INTERESTED IN BEING PROFILED IN THE SCOOP?

Our writer is always looking for a good Our writer is always looking for a good story. Email jon@mnla.biz and we’ll discuss story. Email jon@mnla.biz and we’ll discuss the next steps. the next steps.

september 15

MNLA .biz

SOIL NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT AND THE SUCCESS OF AN

ORGANIC LAWN CARE PROGRAM A successful organic lawn care program naturally creates lush green grass that is less susceptible to drought and disease. Understanding how this is achieved can be found in the soil. Shay Lunseth | Lunseth Lawn Care Professionals/Organic Lawns by Lunseth

➾ ORGAN IC LAWN CAR E

here are five key concepts in understanding how the soil provides grass with the nutrients it needs: organic matter, pH balance, water, soil structure, and macro/micro-nutrients. Organic lawn management considers all of these key areas to build good soil.

Organic Matter

It is ideal for all soil to contain about 5% organic matter. Adding organic fertilizer, compost and recycling your grass clippings are good ways to get soil to reach this percentage. The organic matter is divided into four areas: living organisms, decomposing matter, humus and fresh residue. Living organisms in our soil remind us that it is alive! Measuring microbial activity is a great way to find out how alive your soil is or needs to be (roughly 5%). Adding 100% organic fertilizer increases the soil’s microbial activity, as it is food that they are familiar with processing. Microbes create structural soil aggregates, fix nitrogen and generate vitamins to grow grass and resist disease. Organism activity in the soil can be found in bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, earthworms, arthropods and fungi. To understand the importance of microbial activity, we can look closer at earthworms. In taking a soil test sample, finding earthworms is a wonderful sign of good microbial activity. Earthworms mix and aggregate the soil, improve water-holding capacity, provide channels for root growth and water movement. An earthworm also produces castings. “These castings are abundant with nitrogen, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, all of which might otherwise be unavailable to the plant.” (Friend, 2014) The other components to organic material are humus, decomposing organic material and fresh residue. 33–50% of organic material is in active decomposition. Organisms in the soil work to transform plant material to organic compounds, as they create by-products, wastes and cell tissue. This provides food for other organisms, plants and our lawns. Humus is the stable portion that remains after plant and animal remnants have decomposed. This makes up 33–50% of organic matter. The last 10% or less is fresh residue, which is litter fall and plant residue. When the organic matter in the soil is doing its job, nothing goes to waste and nothing is washed away. Over time, little needs to be added to this system in order for it to work. 16

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pH Balance

Organic matter in the soil is highly dependent on the soil pH. Soil pH is important because it can provide insight to Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), nutrient availability, microbial action and aggregate stability. CEC is the storage capacity for positively charged ions. Nutrients in the soil can attach and be released at these sites. The cation exchange sites within the soil’s organic matter hold macroand micro-nutrients that are necessary for plant growth. The H+ in the soil solution (active acidity) plus the H+ and Al3+ on exchange sites (reserve acidity) create the soil’s total acidity. Understanding the soil acidity will determine the soil pH. Minnesota’s turf grass prefers to grow between pH 5.5 and 7. Likewise, microbial activity depends on the pH of the soil. Although many microbes can still function at varying pH levels, most prefer neutral of 6–7 because of the availability of nutrients. The pH in the soil also affects the stability of the soil. A neutral pH will allow air and water movement within the soil. Water

Water movement in the soil is imperative to the success of grass growth. A successful organic program will incorporate the appropriate amount of water so that the plants are quenched, yet excess water is not available to deprive roots of air and allow the valuable water to runoff. Plant available water exists between field capacity (amount of water that can be stored in the soil after gravitational water has drained away) and wilting point (when most of the cohesive water in the soil is used up, so the plant is at a permanent wilt). Organic matter holds large amounts of water and allows rainfall to move downward or horizontally into the soil. Once the water is able to infiltrate the surface soil, it will be available to plants and less will be available to wash away soil nutrients. “A soil crust reduces infiltration and can be minimized by leaving surface residue, improving organic matter levels, and enhancing biological activity.” (Lewandowski, 2013) When the soil is moist in the late spring and early summer, biological activity is increased. When the soil dries out, this activity naturally declines. The soil can dry out from evapotranspiration, which is water vapor emitted from actively growing plant leaves that rises into the atmosphere. If precipitation

(rainfall or watering) is less than evapotranspiration rates, then the plants get water from the soil (soil moisture utilization). Having soil that holds larger amounts of water is important in June, July and August when soil moisture utilization occurs. This is why it is important in an organic lawn care program to water at appropriate times throughout the year. Soil Structure

The water holding capacity of soil is related to the soil structure. A good structure is essential because it will create stability for grass to grow, as well as create more water holding capacity for it to utilize throughout the year. Without organic matter, clay becomes impervious to water and air, and sand leaches water. The strength of bonding between soil particles is called soil stability. This is important because stable soils maintain their structure during wetting and drying cycles. If the soil can maintain form throughout the year, then it will be less susceptible to erosion. Good soil structure develops long established grass roots that produce thick grass. Good structure can be formed by adding multiple nutrients to the soil (i.e. 100% organic fertilizer) and creating air and water-movement channels within the soil (i.e. aeration and an earthworm-friendly environment). Macro/Micro-nutrients

Macro- and micro-nutrients in soil is the fundamental factor needed for grass to complete its life cycle. A plant cannot live without essential food. Macro-nutrients are needed in large amounts. They are Carbon (C), Oxygen (O), Hydrogen (H), Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Sulfur (S), Calcium (Ca) and Magnesium (Mg). With an organic lawn program, you can provide these nutrients in the following ways:

From Air

From Water

From Soil

C, O

O, H

N, P, K, S, Ca, Mg

There are three simple ways to organically provide soil with the macro-nutrients it needs: 1) aeration, which is pulling 1â&#x20AC;&#x201C;3Ë? cores out of the soil to allow oxygen to infiltrate down into the soil and reduce compaction, 2) appropriate watering, and 3) providing organic materials to the soil. Organic fertilizer provides a variety of nutrients, while synthetic options are only designed to provide N, P (in the form of P2O5) and K (in the form of K 2O). Micro-nutrients are used by plants in relatively small amounts, yet they are nonetheless important for the plantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life cycle. Micronutrients include Iron (Fe2+), Manganese (Mn2+), Zinc (Zn2+), Copper (Cu2+), Nickel (Ni2+), Boron (H3BO3), Chlorine (Cl-), Molybdenum (MoO42-), and Cobalt (Co2+). Boron is responsible for many plant functions, including the elongation of roots. september 15

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Chlorine stabilizes organic matter. Copper clings to organic matter in soils and is necessary for photosynthesis and respiration, which promotes plant growth. Iron is the catalyst in chlorophyll formation and is the micro-nutrient that would most likely be deficient in turf. Manganese is essential for photosynthesis, the formation of chlorophyll and root growth. Molybdenum promotes nitrogen fixing in legumes and pollen formation on blossoms. Zinc helps grass tolerate stresses of too much water saturation, high temperatures and high sunlight. (Christians, 2011) Justus von Liebig’s Law of the Minimum states that plants will use essential elements only in proportion to each other and the element that is in shortest supply will determine how well the plant uses the other nutrients. Therefore, grass cannot grow if one essential nutrient is deficient. Synthetic fertilizers give plants a quick burst of food. This disrupts the balance that they have and makes the grass susceptible to disease, addiction and a weak appearance. An organic fertilizer strives to create balance in the soil by providing natural essential elements that the soil knows how to use. Organic fertilizer differs from synthetic in how they produce macro- and micro-nutrients. Organic fertilizers provide a slow release of nutrients. This reduces the chance for leaching and runoff of this valuable food. Organic fertilizers provide multiple macro- and micro-nutrients, not just N, P2O5 and K 2O. The nutrients provided, along with organic matter in organic fertilizer, improves soil structure and feeds the organisms within that soil. The Benefits of Organic Lawn Care

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There are many reasons why an organic lawn care program is beneficial, especially over traditional synthetic options. Nutrients provided to the soil are not wasted or washed away. Everything that you put into the soil is used by the organisms within. The key to making an organic choice successful is to provide the soil with organic matter, understand soil pH, create good soil structure for growing grass, provide ample water, and give the soil the macro- and micro-nutrients that are necessary for the grass to complete its life cycle. Organic lawn success can effectively offer years of a low-maintenance yard. The soil will work as a self-sustaining environment, which naturally crowds out weeds. It will also improve its water holding capacity to better withstand drought and will be less susceptible to disease. Bibliography Friend, M. A. (2014). The Science of Composting. Retrieved from University of Illinois Extension: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/homecompost/science.cfm Lewandowski, A. (2013). Introduction to soil management. Retrieved from University of Minnesota Extension: http://www.extension.umn. edu/agriculture/tillage/soil-management/soil-management-series/ introduction-to-soil-management/ Christians, Nick (2011). Fundamentals of Turfgrass Management. Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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IMPACTS OF WIRE BASKET

RETENTION AND REMOVAL Effect on Planting Time, Root-Ball Condition, and Early Growth of Acer platanoides and Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis

Andrew Koeser, Richard Hauer, Jeff Edgar, and David Kleinhuizen

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Figure 1. The three levels of wire-basket removal and retention used in this experiment. Intact trees (a) were planted with wire and burlap completely intact. Partial removal trees (b) were planted with the top half of the wire basket removed and the burlap folded down as far as possible. Full removal trees (c) were planted with the wire basket completely removed and the burlap folded down below the root ball.

he use of wire baskets to maintain root-ball integrity has greatly increased the efficiency of balled-and-burlapped harvesting practices. Despite the advantages offered by these products, there is notable disagreement among green industry groups and practitioners regarding the effects of wire basket retention or removal at the time of planting. For this experiment, 30 Norway maple (Acer platanoides) and 30 honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Skycoleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;) shade trees were evenly planted at two sites in the midwestern U.S. after random assignment of a wire-basket removal treatment (i.e., no removal/intact, partial removal, and full removal). Planting time and initial root-ball condition were assessed at the time of installation. Short-term growth and plant stress were assessed each season as trees became established in the research plots. Results indicate that treatment impacted both planting time (P < 0.0001; both sites) and root-ball condition (P = 0.0360 or P = 0.0049; depending on site). In contrast, treatment had limited impact on tree caliper, twig elongation, or chlorophyll fluorescence in the first two to three years after planting. Wire baskets were developed as a means of maintaining root-ball integrity for mechanically harvested balled-and-burlapped trees (Appleton and Floyd 2004). While these metal support systems offer many efficiencies and advantages over traditional hand-drumlacing techniques, their use has generated notable controversy (Lumis 1990a; Appleton and Floyd 2004). Many tree-care professionals worry about potential long-term conflicts between root growth and persisting wire. Unlike natural fiber ties, steel wires have the potential to persist in the soil for years or even decades when buried (Watson and Himelick 2013). While observational research accounts have shown that tree roots can eventually engulf the wire used for basket construction (Lumis and Struger 1988; Lumis 1990b), lingering fears regarding the impact of wire baskets on long-term growth and stability are reflected in the many arboricultural texts and best management practices that advocate for at least partial basket removal (Harris et al. 2004; Watson and Himelick 2005; Urban 2008; Lilly 2010; Watson and Himelick 2013). In contrast with these recommendations, Appleton and Floyd (2004) noted that many nursery producers worry that the full or partial

removal of wire baskets may lead to additional root-ball disruption and fine-root loss. Fine-root loss, separation from the surrounding soil, and desiccation are believed to be significant factors associated with reduced growth and survival of transplanted trees (Harris and Bassuk 1993; Koeser et al. 2009). As such, wire basket removal is seen by some nursery growers as a significant hindrance to plant establishment. Some producers have even considered it as a justification for voiding plant material warranties (Appleton and Floyd 2004). In a 2004 literature review on wire basket handling practices, Appleton and Floyd (2004) identified 17 primary and secondary sources that directly addressed wire-basket removal. Of the cited publications, only two papers (Lumis and Struger 1988; Goodwin and Lumis 1992) had been formally peer-reviewed. In the earlier of these two works, the authors offered a photographic account of an 11-year old willow (Salix spp.) tree roots fully engulfing the upper portions of their original wire basket (Lumis and Struger 1988). The work was not a designed experiment; rather, it served as a first attempt to document regrowth of vascular tissues around partially girdling basket wire. To date, the only formal experimentation on this issue was a six-month greenhouse experiment where root systems of twoyear-old liners were intentionally girdled at various levels with florist wire to simulate conditions faced in the landscape (Goodwin and Lumis 1992). This research offers a controlled assessment of the impacts of wirebasket removal and retention on tree growth and survival of larger nursery stock commonly planted in urban landscapes. The findings reported in this paper address early growth and survival following transplanting. Additionally, initial root-ball condition at installation and time required for planting are compared and discussed for various levels of basket retention and removal. Surviving trees will be reassessed in the years to come to address concerns regarding long-term plant health and stability. MATERIALS AND METHODS Locations

Two study sites were selected within the upper Midwest United States. The first planting site was established at a commercial september 15

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Table 1. Root-ball disruption scale. Prior to backfill each tree root ball was rated to assess cracking, distortion, and damage associated with planting and handling. Rating

Description

No disruption to root ball.

Minor cracking.

Moderate cracking, but no visible root ball distortion. Tree stability unaffected.

Moderate cracking with at least one side of the root ball flattened or distorted. Noticeable difference in tree stability.

Severe cracking and significant distortion of overall root ball shape. Stability of tree significantly affected.

Complete bare-rooting.

nursery in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, U.S. (lat. 44.049877 N, long. 87.673654 W, USDA Hardiness Zone 5b) on June 28, 2011. The second planting site was located at a commercial nursery in Forest Lake, Minnesota, U.S. (lat. 45.214867 N, long. 92.952985 W, USDA hardiness zone 4b) with the trial beginning on May 10, 2012. Planting sites were intentionally separated geographically and temporally (with planting dates staggered over two years) to capture more than one initial growing environment (site). At the Wisconsin site, trees were planted into a Keowns very fine sandy loam (U.S. Dept. Agriculture 2007). At the Minnesota site, trees were planted into a Lino variant loamy fine sand (U.S. Dept. Agriculture 2011). Plant Materials

Two commonly-planted urban shade tree species, honeylocust [Gleditsia triacanthos L. var. inermis (L.) C. K. Schneid ‘Skycole’] and Norway maple (Acer platanoides L.), were selected for comparison in this study. All plant materials were field-grown, harvested, and balled-and-burlapped with standard, tapered wire baskets constructed from 2.5 mm wire. The burlap bags used were treated and constructed from 339 g∙m-2 natural jute material. Honeylocust were 5.0 cm to 6.5 cm in caliper at the time of planting. Norway maple were 5.0 cm to 6.5 cm in caliper at the Wisconsin site and 7.5 cm to 9.0 cm in caliper at the Minnesota site at the time of planting. With the exception of the Norway maple at the Minnesota site, all tree root balls were secured in 74-cm diameter wire baskets. The larger Norway maples at the Minnesota site were placed in 91-cm diameter wire baskets. In all, 60 trees were used for this study (15 trees per species per site). Treatments

At planting, trees were randomly assigned one of three treatments: 1) planted with wire and burlap fully intact (intact); 2) planted with the top third of the wire removed and burlap folded down as low in the hole as possible (partial removal); and 3) planted with the wire

completely removed and the burlap folded down in the hole below the root ball (full removal) (Figure 1). For partial removal, trees were placed in the planting pit prior to wire removal and burlap loosening. For full removal, only the very bottom of the wire basket was cut and removed prior to placement in the planting hole. The sides of the tapered basket were left intact to support the root ball until the tree was completely situated in the bottom of the planting pit. Once in place, the remaining wire was removed and the burlap was loosened and folded down to the bottom of the hole. Twine (naturally-derived) was not cut on the intact treatment and left uncut for the first growing season. All planting holes were machine dug with a skid steer (using a tree spade in Wisconsin and a u-blade in Minnesota), and later widened approximately 15 cm with a hand shovel to allow sufficient root ball access for wire-basket removal and burlap loosening as noted previously. At both sites, trees were moved from their harvest location to the planting holes using a skid steer equipped with forks. Trees were backfilled manually with a shovel, and soil was tamped lightly to reduce air gaps. All trees were planted so their root flares were at or slightly (2.5 to 5.0 cm) above grade. Field soil at both sites were typical of nursery soils. They were tilled with a field cultivator and were easily dug with a shovel. Trees were not staked or irrigated after planting. The ground between tree rows was periodically cultivated by nursery staff to limit weed competition. Measurements

Planting time was measured for each tree installed to later compare the labor associated with each of the three treatments. Timing began once trees were positioned next to the planting hole and ended once the last of the fill had been shoveled back into place. Additionally, root-ball condition was rated prior to backfilling (after treatments had been administered). This rating system was set as a six-point scale with zero (0) equal to no root-ball disruption and five (5) equal to complete bare-rooting (Table 1). As intact root balls were still covered, cracking was assessed by visual cues and by feel. The same two individuals conducted all assessments and came to a consensus on the final damage rating. Baseline caliper measurements were taken 15.3 cm above grade at planting. At the end of each season, both tree caliper and twig elongation measurements were taken. Two caliper measurements were made per tree (north-south and east-west) and the location was marked with a wax pencil for future remeasurement. Twig elongation measurements were taken on the terminal shoots of the lowest three sun-exposed main branches. These branches were marked with zip-ties for remeasurement. Dark-adapted (30 minutes) chlorophyll fluorescence measurements (three per tree) were taken once during mid- to late-summer as a means of assessing relative stress among trees. Chlorophyll fluorescence measurements (Fv/Fm) were taken with a portable photosynthesis system (LI-6400; LI-COR, Lincoln, Nebraska, U.S.) for the first two seasons. In the last season of measurement, Fv/Fm was measured using a dedicated chlorophyll fluorescence meter (OS30p+; Optisciences Inc., Hudson, New Hampshire, U.S.). All subsampling (i.e., instances where multiple measurements were made per tree) was averaged into a single measurement prior to september 15

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Table 2. Planting time and root-ball condition rating associated with full removal, partial removal, and no removal (intact) of protective wire and burlap at two different research locations of Manitowoc (Wisconsin) and Forest Lake (Minnesota). Root-ball condition was rated on a six point scale (0 = no disruption; 5 = complete bare-rooting).

Site

Treatment

Mean planting time (min)z

Median ratingy

Manitowoc, WI

Intact Partial removal Full removal

2.45 ± 0.35a 4.84 ± 0.32b 5.03 ± 0.32b

0a 2b 1.5b

Forest Lake, MN

Intact Partial removal Full removal

2.01 ± 0.21a 4.53 ± 0.35b 4.48 ± 0.50b

0a 1b 1b

z Means separated using a protected Fisher’s Least Significant Difference at P < 0.05. Mean values with similar letters are not significantly different. y Means separated using the kruskal() function in the agricolae package in R. Median values with dissimilar letters indicate differences significant at P < 0.05.

final analysis. Trees were monitored for two seasons at the Minnesota site and for three seasons at the Wisconsin site. Design and Analysis

Trees were grouped by species. Within each species grouping, the three wire-basket removal treatments were arranged in a completely randomized design (n = 5 per site). Initial planting measurements (time required to plant and root ball condition) were pooled together across species and sites prior to analysis. Growth and stress responses were analyzed separately by species. Planting-time requirement data were analyzed as Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using the aov() function in R (R Core Team 2013). Mean separation was conducted as a protected Fisher’s Least Significant Difference test using the LSD.test() function in R. Residual plots indicated that the root-ball rating data failed to meet the assumption of normality. As such, a Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric test was used to assess the significance of the treatments. The test and resulting mean separation were conducted with the kruskal() function offered through the agricolae package in R (de Mendiburu 2013). Final caliper growth was analyzed using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) with initial caliper, site, and treatment included as covariates. Finally, twig elongation and Fv/Fm were analyzed as repeated measures ANOVA using the lme() function in package nlme (Pinheiro et al. 2013). These analyses were also separated by site, as trees were measured for two seasons after planting in Minnesota and for three seasons after planting in Wisconsin. All decisions were made at α ≤ 0.05 significance level of type I error.

ment at both the Wisconsin (P = 0.0360) and Minnesota sites (P = 0.0049). Similar to the pattern seen with planting time, intact trees had significantly lower damage ratings at both planting sites (Table 2). Intact trees had a median ranking of no damage that increased to minimal and moderate cracking levels when the burlap and wire basket were removed. Differences were not significant between the partial and full removal treatments at either site (Table 2). Caliper Growth

For both the honeylocust and the Norway maple ANCOVA models, only initial caliper was significant (P < 0.0001 for both species). Neither site (P = 0.1381) nor treatment (P = 0.8972) significantly impacted final caliper growth for the honeylocust. Similarly, both site (P = 0.7030) and treatment (P = 0.1352) were non-significant in the Norway maple ANCOVA models (Table 3). Twig Elongation and Chlorophyll Fluorescence

Honeylocust twig elongation did not differ by treatment at the Wisconsin (P = 0.8018) or Minnesota sites (P = 0.5510). Similarly, treatment did not impact Norway maple twig elongation at the Minnesota site (P = 0.3320). The treatments were marginally significant when comparing mean twig elongation for Norway maple at the Wisconsin site (P = 0.0587). Fv/ Fm generally remained similar across the three treatments with one exception—Norway maple at the Minnesota site (P = 0.0109). At this site, intact trees had higher Fv/Fm ratios as compared to the partial (P < 0.001) and full (P = 0.0246) removal treatments (Table 3).

RESULTS

DISCUSSION

Planting Time and Root-Ball Condition

Full or partial wire basket and burlap removal increased total planting time by up to approximately two-and-a-half minutes. According to industry averages in the U.S., the total labor required to plant a 76 cm wire basket (averaged from 60-cm and 92-cm data) is 109.0 minutes in medium soils (RSMeans 2013). This average is for a crew with two laborers and one light equipment/backhoe operator and mirrors the planting crew used in the present study. Adding the two and a half minutes to planting plus an additional minute for

Overall, mean planting times for the partial and full removal treatments were approximately double that of the intact treatments at both sites (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.001 for Wisconsin and Minnesota, respectively, Table 2). This increased planting time by two to twoand-a-half minutes. At both research sites, differences in planting time between the partial and full removal treatments were not significant (Table 2). Root-ball condition rating also varied by treat-

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Table 3. Average total caliper growth, annual twig elongation, and Fv/Fm for Norway maple (Acer platanoides) and honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis ‘Skycole’) planted at two different research locations at Manitowoc (Wisconsin) and Forest Lake (Minnesota). At planting, each tree was assigned one of three treatments: 1) full removal of wire basket and burlap, 2) partial removal of wire basket and burlap, or 3) no removal (intact) of wire basket and burlap. Site

Species

Treatment

Caliper growth (cm)

Annual twig growth (cm)

Fv/Fmz

Manitowoc, WI

Norway maple

Intact Partial removal Full removal

1.0 ± 0.48 1.2 ± 0.11 1.7 ± 0.10

3.6 ± 0.64 2.4 ± 0.35 3.5 ± 0.35

0.67 ± 0.04 0.66 ± 0.03 0.68 ± 0.03

Intact Partial removal Full removal

0.9 ± 0.08 0.8 ± 0.07 0.8 ± 0.09

15.0 ± 1.53 13.3 ± 1.79 11.6 ± 1.29

0.67 ± 0.02 0.70 ± 0.02 0.70 ± 0.02

Intact Partial removal Full removal

1.1 ± 0.18 0.8 ± 0.08 1.0 ± 0.05

3.2 ± 0.60 2.9 ± 0.58 2.5 ± 0.28

0.77 ± 0.01a 0.75 ± 0.01b 0.75 ± 0.01b

Intact Partial removal Full removal

0.5 ± 0.11 0.6 ± 0.07 0.7 ± 0.09

19.0 ± 2.99 23.5 ± 3.08 21.8 ± 3.15

0.78 ± 0.01 0.79 ± 0.01 0.79 ± 0.01

Honeylocust

Forest Lake, MN

Norway maple Honeylocust

zValues with dissimilar letters indicate differences significant at P < 0.05. Values without lettering were non-significant.

wire scrap cleanup would add USD $4.58 or 3.2% to the final cost (including overhead and profit) of planting a tree (RSMeans 2013). Wire basket and burlap removal did result in increased soil cracking and root ball distortion (Table 2). This was a concern noted by Appleton and Floyd in their review of the issue (2004). Despite this, twig elongation and caliper appeared largely unaffected by the three treatments. Similarly, with the exception of one planting of Norway maple (Wisconsin), researchers were largely unable to detect differences in plant stress (Fv/Fm), which suggests this initial disturbance linked to the treatments had minimal impact on short-term plant performance for species used in this study. Overall, average Fv/Fm values were below the 0.78 to 0.85 range associated with healthy, non-stressed shade trees (Percival 2005), indicating all trees were stressed after transplanting regardless of treatment. Beyond the wire itself, the retention of burlap and rope wrapping materials at planting has been a point of contention among professionals. Some believe natural burlap materials will degrade quickly in the soil, though there is some evidence that treated burlap can persist for several years after planting (Kuhns 1997; Watson and Himelick 2013). Research has shown that roots will penetrate intact burlap after transplanting; however, multiple layers of wrapping materials may limit root growth into the surrounding soil during the initial months following installation (Kuhns 1997). As these roots expand, many believe they may be girdled by persisting burlap (Watson and Himelick 2013). When the long-term stage of this study is completed and trees are evaluated for differences in whole-tree stability, the root systems will be excavated and inspected for signs of past girdling. The removal of ropes to prevent stem girdling has long been recommended (Gouin 1983). In the current study, the rope was left 26

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september 15

to prevent root ball breakage from wind during the first year. Despite being constructed of natural material, the ropes at both sites were still very much intact and removed before the second growing season. While researchers failed to note significant differences in growth rates among the three treatments, dramatic differences were witnessed in tree stability for the Norway maple three weeks after planting at the Minnesota site. A late spring windstorm toppled two of the partial and three of the full removal treatments. The remaining trees for these two treatments had visible leans. All trees were straightened and the soil was re-tamped around each. With frequent rains in the area, growing conditions at the site remained favorable after the storm, and the trees survived with no noticeable impact to growth and health. This experience highlights the potential need for tree staking or guying materials for the two levels of wire-basket removal and is one of the arguments used by those advocating that wire and burlap be left intact (Appleton and Floyd 2004; Marshall undated). If leaving the wire basket intact is truly sufficient to prevent newly planted trees from toppling in winds, consumers would be spared a 2013 industry average of $41.50 for staking costs in areas where wind is a concern (RSMeans 2013). Interestingly, site did not significantly impact final caliper measurements, despite the difference in the number of seasons in the ground. The study authors believe this reflects the difference in each site’s first growing season. When the Wisconsin trees were planted in 2011, the area was experiencing notably dry conditions. In contrast, when the Minnesota trees were planted in 2012, they experienced moist soil conditions characterized by frequent rain events. This research serves as yet another indication that wire baskets do not pose significant stress to newly transplanted trees (for the species

This research serves as yet another indication that wire baskets do not pose significant stress to newly transplanted trees (for the species and environmental condition tested). The authors acknowledge that while this is not in contrast with past research (Lumis and Struger 1988; Goodwin and Lumis 1992), it does go counter to some of the personal experiences and accounts offered by professional arborists.

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Literature Cited Appleton, B., and S. Floyd. 2004. Wire baskets: Current products and their handling at planting. Journal of Arboriculture 30(4):261–265. de Mendiburu, F. 2013. Agricolae: Statistical Procedures for Agricultural Research. R package version 1.1-4. Accessed 02/01/2014. <http:// CRAN.R-project.org/package=agricolae> Goodwin, C., and G. Lumis. 1992. Embedded wire in tree roots: Implications for tree growth and root function. Journal of Arboriculture 18(3):115–123. Gouin, F.R. 1983. Girdling by roots and ropes. Journal of Environmental Horticulture 1(2):48–50.

and environmental condition tested). The authors acknowledge that while this is not in contrast with past research (Lumis and Struger 1988; Goodwin and Lumis 1992), it does go counter to some of the personal experiences and accounts offered by professional arborists. It seems plausible that in some cases of transplant failure, minimallydegraded wire baskets and natural burlap materials were blamed for the death of the tree when in fact their presence was merely an indication of poor planting sites. The decay organisms that ultimately break down burlap coverings are influenced by compaction, excess/limiting soil moisture, pH, and other soil factors that also influence tree survival. Oxidation is similarly linked to water and air availability and, noting this, researchers have used corrosion levels on steel rods as a means of gauging long-term underground growing conditions (Hodge 1994). In less than ideal soil conditions, wire from baskets can persist for years with minimal loss of strength (Lumis 1990a; Lumis 1990b). As such, at many urban planting sites, roots may partially girdle as they grow into the remaining wire. While past observation has shown trees can recover from this potential stress, no controlled experiments have compared the growth of these trees to similar specimens not hindered by wire. Similarly, the impact of wire growth on tree stability is unknown. This population of trees will remain in the research plots for future testing in an attempt to address these questions. SUMMARY

While this study does not end the debate regarding the removal of wire baskets and burlap after planting, the findings do offer further considerations for the best management practices of tree planting. Similarly, this work offers an estimate of planting time differences for various levels of wire-basket removal, which can be incorporated into bid proposals. Staking of trees following the removal of a wire basket is recommended as a precaution in areas where toppling from wind loading is a concern. Removal of packing materials did cause minor to moderate cracking of the root ball. However, this did not translate into reduced growth or greater stress. Acknowledgments. This study was supported by the Tree Research and Education Endowment Fund (TREE Fund) and the Wisconsin Arborist Association, with

Harris, J.R. and N.L. Bassuk. 1993. Tree planting fundamentals. Journal of Arboriculture 19(2):64–70. Harris, R.W., J.R. Clark, and N.P. Matheny. 2004. Arboriculture: Integrated Management of Landscape Trees, Shrubs, and Vines, fourth edition. Prentice Hall, New York City, New York, U.S. 578 pp. Hodge, S.J. 1994. Using steel rods for the non-destructive assessment of aeration in urban soils. pp. 201–206. In: G.W. Watson and D. Neely (Eds.). The Landscape Belowground—Proceedings of an International Workshop on Tree Root Development in Urban Soils. International Society of Arboriculture, Champaign, Illinois, U.S. Koeser, A.K., J.R. Stewart, G.A. Bollero, D.G. Bullock, and D.K. Struve. 2009. Impacts of handling and transport on the growth and survival of balled-and-burlapped trees. HortScience 44:(1):53–58. Kuhns, M. 1997. Penetration of treated and untreated burlap by roots of balled and burlapped Norway maple. Journal of Arboriculture 23(1):1–7. Lilly, S.J. 2010. Arborists’ Certification Study Guide. International Society of Arboriculture, Champaign, Illinois, U.S. 352 pp. Lumis G.P., and S.A. Struger. 1988 Root tissue development around wire-basket transplant containers. HortScience 23(2):401. Lumis, G.P. 1990a. Wire baskets: A further look. American Nurseryman 172(4):128–131. Lumis, G.P. 1990b. Wire baskets for moving trees: A researcher’s look at trees, roots, and wire in the landscape. Landscape Trades 12(10):8–16. Marshall, M. Undated. Wire Baskets: Why leave them intact? Accessed 06/26/2014. <www.marshalltrees.com/articles. asp?p=2&id=152&cid=0> Percival, G.C. 2005. The use of chlorophyll fluorescence to identify chemical and environmental stress in leaf tissue of three oak (Quercus) species. Journal of Arboriculture. 31(5):215–227. Pinheiro, J., D. Bates, S. DebRoy, D. Sarkar and the R Development Core Team. 2013. nlme: Linear and Nonlinear Mixed Effects Models. R package version 3.1-109. Accessed 02/01/2014 <http://CRAN.Rproject.org/package=nlme> R Core Team. 2013. R: A language and environment for statistical computing. R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria. Accessed 02/01/2014. <www.R-project.org> RSMeans. 2013. RSMeans Site Work & Landscape Cost Data 2014. R. Fortier (Ed.). RSMeans, Norwell, Massachusetts, U.S. 915 pp. Urban, J. 2008. Up by Roots. International Society of Arboriculture, Champaign, Illinois, U.S. 479 pp.

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Watson G.W., and E.B. Himelick. 2013. The Practical Science of Planting Trees. International Society of Arboriculture, Champaign, Illinois, U.S. 250 pp. Watson, G.W., and E.B. Himelick. 2005. Best Management Practices: Tree Planting. International Society of Arboriculture, Champaign, Illinois, U.S. 41 pp.

ANDREW KOESER (corresponding author), Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Horticulture CLCE, IFAS, University of Florida Gulf Coast Research and Education Center 14625 County Road 672 Wimauma, Florida 33598 akoeser@ufl.edu RICHARD HAUER,

Professor College of Natural Resources University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point 800 Reserve Street Stevens Point, Wisconsin 54481

JEFF EDGAR, Owner Silver Creek Nurseries, Inc. P.O. Box 1988 Manitowoc, Wisconsin 54421-1988 DAVE KLEINHUIZEN, President Hardwood Creek Nursery, Inc. 18431 Henna Avenue North Forest Lake, Minnesota 55025-3610

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➾ C AR E ERS IN HORTICULTUR E SEC TI O N

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Dr. James Calkins Research Information Director Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association Foundation

Although the green industry appears to be recovering from the effects of the economic downturn that started in December of 2007, its recovery, like the recovery of the United States and global economy in general, remains fragile and uncertain. Without a doubt, the green industry took a major hit during the â&#x20AC;&#x153;great recession,â&#x20AC;? resulting in business failures (averaging 30% nationwide and as high as 70% in some regions), inventory shortages and reduced plant quality, and a changed and more compact industry.

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t was indeed a very difficult and challenging time for our industry and its long-term consequences have likely not yet been fully realized. Although the recovery that began for the green industry in 2012 continues, the rate of recovery has not been uniform for all segments of the industry and, in general, the green industry continues to face a variety of perceived and very real challenges. One of these challenges, documented by both industry reports and quantitative evidence, is a lack of qualified employees (even though the demand is high and likely to increase). Prior to the recession and in its aftermath, (and even during the recession), it has been increasingly difficult for green industry firms to find qualified and willing employees. Research indicates many potential employees are not interested in horticulture positions that are widely perceived to be 24/7, low-wage, physically demanding, and dead-end, seasonal jobs. Finding qualified, willing, and enthusiastic employees is a serious and enduring problem as students of all ages and their parents tend to have an unfavorable opinion (or are unaware of ) careers in the green industry. As a result, though somewhat variable relative to specific programs over time, many academic programs related to agriculture, including horticulture, and especially nursery production, are struggling in response to declining enrollments. It is clear that the green industry is facing a significant shortage of employees with horticultural training. Not surprisingly, this trend is having repercussions and raising concerns globally, across the United States, and, yes, here in Minnesota and neighboring states. Replaced by majors in either plant science or food systems, horticulture as a major at the University of Minnesota is no longer an option. Student numbers in many local agriculture programs, including horticulture, have been declining in recent years and in some cases for a decade or more. In many cases, the quality of existing programs, and especially hands-on training, are also being threatened or significantly reduced. The current struggle wherein California Polytechnic State University students and faculty are faced with a

master planning effort that suggests the elimination of horticultural facilities to provide space for residential and recreational facilities is a primary example. In an attempt to maintain student numbers and attract new students, some horticulture programs are switching their focus from traditional horticultural production systems to organic production systems, adding courses focused on organic techniques and pollinator issues which are of greater interest in popular culture. While understandable from a student numbers perspective based on the public’s interest in organic principles, and commendable because sustainability should be an important consideration in every aspect of the green industry, such decisions are generally at odds with the needs of industry and are likely to be unsustainable in the long run and a disservice to students and the green industry. In fact, sustainable principles and techniques should be an integral component of every ag/hort degree program, (whether it be nursery production, landscape design, or any other specialization), but not the sole focus. Such developments, combined with a higher education system where the rising costs associated with earning a college degree are on an unsustainable track, student accessibility to quality agricultural education is increasingly limited, and fewer scientists are being trained in horticulture, are highly problematic and a serious threat to the nursery and landscape industry. Even as the value and significance of the green industry is being increasingly recognized based on its contributions to society and the environment (including its role in reliable food production, human and animal nutrition, energy sustainability, landscape restoration, stormwater management, and environmental sustainability), if these trends continue, the training of green industry professionals will be further compromised and the ability of the green industry to provide quality products and services could be seriously compromised. None of these issues are new; they have been festering for over two decades as evidenced by an article written by J. Creighton Miller, Jr., American Society Southern Region President (1992–93), and published in the journal HortScience in June, 1993. In the article, written 22 years ago, Dr. Miller discusses his concerns: • “Shrinking” undergraduate and graduate student numbers in horticulture. • Abandoned faculty positions and a reduced commitment to quality in horticultural programs. • Increasing numbers of faculty with interests and academic philosophies different from those of traditional horticulturists and how their expertise might be integrated to the benefit rather than the detriment of horticulture departments and education. • The rising costs of college tuition and its effects on students and their education and career choices. • Keeping in touch with the needs of students and industry. • How horticulture programs would continue to provide the innovative training and industry support needed to address the challenges associated with an increasingly complicated and competitive horticulture industry.

• Reduced funding and resources and increased competition for research grants. • Whether horticulture departments were becoming “too basic or discipline-oriented” and abandoning the needs of students and industry, and especially from a land-grant university perspective. Many of his suggestions for rectifying these problems are as valid today as they were then, and probably even more so as some of his worst fears have become reality: • The elimination of horticultural faculty positions and programs. • Combining horticulture with other departments. • The elimination of horticulture departments altogether. Then as now, a willingness to engage and develop cooperative, creative, and mutually beneficial partnerships among industry and academic institutions will be required to overcome these challenges. On the bright side, as highlighted by a recent report published by the United States Department of Agriculture, there is a high demand for graduates with training and expertise in food, agriculture, natural resources, and the environment (Goecker et al., 2015). Although the report doesn’t address the negative impressions that are often associated with green industry careers, it highlights the current and future viability of the green industry as a potential career option for college graduates, especially if the negative perceptions of the industry as a career choice can be mitigated. The green industry is vibrant, exciting, and diverse, and is becoming increasingly competitive and dependent on technology. Locally, Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association members and their green industry colleagues and partners are great examples, as are green industry businesses worldwide including sustainable, high tech greenhouse enterprises like FreshMex (www.freshmex.com.mx), Agropark production facilities (Querétaro, Mexico - www.agropark.com.mx; Lempira, Honduras), and smart floating farm operations (www.forwardthinkingarchitecture.com/sff-floating-farms-initiative). A reliable supply of well-educated and trained professionals will be needed to maintain the vitality and profitability of this diverse and dynamic industry. The Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) and the MNLA Foundation are concerned about these trends and are working with local and national partners in an attempt to educate the public about the importance and value of the green industry and to find viable solutions to the many challenges that face our industry. Some of these efforts are highlighted in the June, 2015, issue of The Scoop [“From the Executive Director — The Future of the Green Industry Workforce: Yes, It’s Your Problem” written by Cassie Larson (Page 10) and “Solving Green Industry Challenges is Within Your Control” by Seth Midura, member of the MNLA Foundation Board of Trustees and leader of the MNLA Foundation Green Industry Careers Team (Page 45)]. Consider what they have to say and how you might be proactive in promoting a healthy future for the green industry. Although we tend to view a shortage september 15

MNLA .biz

➾ C AR E ERS IN HORTICULTUR E SEC TI O N

60,000 PROFESSIONAL POSITIONS AVAILABLE THIS YEAR IN THE LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY, NEW SURVEY SHOWS Foundation Issues Research Report that Paints a Positive Picture of the Career Opportunities in the Landscape Industry

The National Association of Landscape Professionals Foundation recently released a national employment survey of landscape industry firms. The data shows approximately 60,000 professional level positions will need to be filled this year with an additional 240,000 labor positions. The Stevenson Company, a nationally recognized market research firm, recently surveyed 195 landscape companies and found that executives and management-level positions are the hardest positions to fill. This is particularly true of the small (less than 10 employees) and medium sized (10 to 99 employees) firms. Average executive salaries range from $54,000 to $115,000, while manager salaries average $50,000 at companies with more than 10 employees. The research project is part of the NALP Foundation initiative to raise the visibility of landscape industry careers and attract more people into the field. The survey was conducted online in the spring of 2015 and over the phone within the United States by Stevenson Company on behalf of NALP from among 195 landscape company representatives.

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of qualified employees as a problem, which it certainly is, it might also be viewed as a blessing. The strong and growing demand for qualified employees highlights a continuing need for the products and services provided by the nursery and landscape industry and related industries. Most of us have chosen careers in the green industry because we are passionate about horticulture and its place in society. If our industry is to survive and flourish, our job is to share the exciting story and beauty of horticulture, in all its variations, by showing parents and students how rewarding a career in horticulture can be. We must promote horticultural education and research and the many fulfilling career opportunities available within the green industry, and convince potential green industry professionals that the green industry needs them; that they will be rewarded with a lifelong vocation that is profitable, worthwhile, and fun. In short, we must improve the image and attractiveness of green industry careers. Although this will not be an easy task, it is a serious challenge that must be overcome. Combined with a comprehensive and shared commitment to promote our industry and the socio-economic, nutritional, environmental, and quality-of-life benefits provided by our industry on a daily basis, a recognition of the importance of the green industry and the rewards that can be associated with green industry careers can hopefully provide justification and be the impetus for better horticultural education, enhanced employment opportunities, wages, and benefits, and a revitalization of the green industry in the eyes of the public and the lives of current and future green industry professionals. Our individual and collective commitments to secure a reliable and effective workforce and face the other important challenges of our time, including a variety of current and future demographic and economic factors, government regulation, and changing consumer needs and preferences, are likely to have significant and ongoing effects on the green industry and will be key in advancing our profession and maintaining a bright future for the green industry. is the MNLA Foundation Research Information Director and can be reached at research@mnla.biz.

JIM CALKINS

What will you experience at the show for green industry pros? JANUARY 13-15, 2016

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(Opening Keynote) The official kick-off for the Northern Green Expo, the keynote speaker always packs a punch! The 2016 keynote speaker, Dennis Snow, led Walt Disney’s customer service for 20 years and will discuss why creating a culture of customer service is imperative no matter where you work or what you do.

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Choosing Your Own Path Follow your own learning path from among nearly 100 seminars, everything from Sustainable Urban Landscape Design and Vegetable Varieties to Benchmarking and Profit Management and Using Social Media to Sell. Additionally, the popular “campfire” sessions will be back on the trade show floor –something for everyone!

Building Connections Interested in connecting with other industry professionals? Besides the ever-valuable impromptu “hallway” meetings, there will be featured, dedicated networking time on the trade show floor, free lunch on Thursday, campfire areas for gathering, opportunities to visit with speakers and exhibitors, and so much more.

Visiting Vendors Three days to visit with your suppliers in a dedicated environment. Check out the Expo hall–which boasts nearly 1,000 booths–and talk to all the industry players in one place at one time.

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➾ C AR E ERS IN HORTICULTUR E SEC TI O N

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Lack of public awareness of horticulture is one of the biggest challenges; it is also its greatest opportunity.

Mary H. Meyer

Professor, University of Minnesota; MNLA Foundation Board Member; Past President American Society of Horticultural Science

Participants told stories about how they often had to describe what they do and what horticulture is to others. Because of the benefits associated with the industry — available jobs, science/technology, and working outdoors — communication of these attributes will help pique individuals’ interest in the field.

As members of the horticulture industry, we need to speak out about the wonderful and diverse careers available in our field. The MNLA Foundation has three important objectives: to promote research, scholarships, and careers in horticultural science. Attracting young people to horticultural science is critical for the growth of our industry. To better understand the importance of horticulture and the challenges facing the industry, Longwood Gardens, the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS), AmericanHort, the American Horticultural Society, the American Public Garden Association, and the National Junior Horticultural Association contracted with FleishmanHillard, a nationally recognized marketing and research firm, to conduct 1) informal, intercept interviews at Cultivate ‘14; 2) focus groups at the American Horticultural Society’s 2014 National Children and Youth Garden Symposium and 2014 ASHS conference; and 3) an online survey open to horticulture stakeholders. The results of Phases I and II of this research are listed below.

Key Research Findings There is strong support for the Promotion of Horticulture Initiative. Nearly everyone FleishmanHillard has spoken with as a part of this project volunteered their support and enthusiasm, indicating a great need in the industry. Many are hopeful that such an initiative will address challenges facing the industry, including lack of awareness and understanding, shrinking college programs and degree consolidation, and a skilled labor gap.

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To appeal to youth, it will be important for the initiative to give horticulture a face. The public has an outdated or limited perception of the field; few associate it with science and technology and attacking major, global problems. By showcasing the innovation and breadth of work taking place across the industry, we can catch the attention of Millennials and other youth that are already interested in food science, technology and nutrition fields.

Phase III research is continuing with input from junior and senior high school students, along with their parents and teachers. Do you remember how you learned about horticulture as a career? Who was your plant mentor? Was it a member of your family, a teacher, or a friend? Each of us needs to be a plant mentor and tell others, especially young people, about the wonderful career that awaits them in horticultural science. Whether annual tours for the school closest to your business, sponsoring a scholarship to high school or college students, or supporting the MNLA Foundation events (Widmer Golf Tournament, Garden Party, and Shootout), we all need to work to support horticulture for the next generation. Who are you being a plant mentor to?

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON MNLA Foundation events, see: http://www.mnla.biz/?page=foundation. For more information about the Promotion of Horticulture Initiative, see: http://www.ashs. org/?page=PromotingHort.

➾ C AR E ERS IN HORTICULTUR E SEC TI O N

THE RECRUITING COUCH Every year the NCAA Tournament ends, I’m always sad to see it go. College basketball is my favorite sport. It’s been a long time since my team, the Purdue Boilermakers sniffed a Final Four, but I still love watching the tournament unfold. Scott Grams | Illinois Landscape Contractors Association Originally published in ILCA’s magazine, The Landscape Contractor

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n the end, you consistently see the best coaches make their way to the Promised Land. This year, that was especially true as Wisconsin’s Bo Ryan, Kentucky’s John Calipari, Michigan State’s Tom Izzo, and Duke’s Mike Krzyzewski (yes, I had to look up how to spell that) met for a memorable weekend. Those four coaches would easily rank among the top 10 of active coaches. Most college basketball fans do not envy college basketball coaches. College basketball coaches never seem happy. In fact, they look downright miserable. They are either screaming at their players, at the ref, or both. I’ve never looked at a college basketball coach, even though they are the enduring stars of the sports I love, as aspirational. Drill sergeants seem more at peace with themselves. Long before nets are cut down at the Final Four, a college coach begins his road not in a gym, but on a couch. College teams are built from recruits, and that is a long and difficult process. Even slick coaches like Pitino and Calipari spend Friday nights in sweaty gyms. They travel to rural Indiana farm towns and urban ghettos, and all points in between. They meet with family members, extended family members, and a wide array of hangers-on who see a 17-yearold kid as a ticket out. They can’t pay the kid. They can’t offer signing bonuses and a new car. They can’t even buy the kid a slick suit of his own. The coach must sit on a couch, in the imprint left by the last five coaches who sat on that same couch, and sell himself. The coach must sell his record and his university. He must sell the idea of a trophy with a 1/351team chance of holding one. He must sell the idea of earning a degree to a kid obsessed with basketball. The coach must be sincere, honest, and deliver on his promises. If he is a not, word will spread and those recruiting visits will get harder and harder. Winning college basketball teams win on the floor, but they are formed in living rooms all across the nation. The landscape industry has a serious labor crisis. The unemployment rate has dropped to 5.5%. That is the same as it was in 2008. Yet, I would be hard pressed to find any landscape company who is seeing the same

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The couch is merely a metaphor for what I call micro-recruiting. Macro recruiting just does not seem to be effective right now. The newspaper ads, flyers at the grocery store, and internal recruiting campaigns just don’t seem to be cutting it this season.…I view micro-recruiting as different. Micro-recruiting takes time and effort. It takes strategy and execution. It requires a change in coaching philosophy. quality or quantity of candidates as they did in 2008. Job applications have gone from being stored in file cabinets, to accordion folders, to a single manila folder perched in an inbox. The traditional signs of “Looking for Experienced Laborers” and “Help Wanted” still dot every driveway leading to a landscape yard. With a black sharpie, those signs could easily be changed to “LOOKING FOR ANYONE!” and “HELP!” Landscape companies are creative. They have tried referral bonuses, want-ads, and Spanish-language advertising. Companies have raised their pay scale in an effort to outspend their competition and attract those motivated by a few extra bucks. Some companies still play Russian roulette with the H2B program and hold on for dear life as it spins through the white waters of politics. Some companies poach from their competitors knowing this permanently stains relationships and reputations. Lastly, some companies fantasize and give much more consideration than they should, to hiring illegal workers. So the fundamental question is, how does a landscape company stay competitive and grow when it cannot find key people to fill its ranks? How will a company find and recruit a labor force? My answer is that successful companies will take a lesson from college basketball and sit on some couches. The couch is merely a metaphor for what I call micro-recruiting. Macro recruiting just does not seem to be effective right now. The newspaper ads, flyers at the grocery store, and internal recruiting campaigns just don’t seem to be cutting it this season. Basically, if the recruiting effort is easy (even if it’s expensive), it will likely not pay dividends. College basketball teams don’t put an ad in US Today and say “Want to be part of a winning team? Play for Kentucky.” College coaches, even the millionaires with banners, still hit the bricks every offseason. I view micro-recruiting as different. Micro-recruiting takes time and effort. It takes strategy and execution. It requires a change in coaching philosophy. Below are eight steps I recommend when setting up a micro-recruiting program. First, identify the labor need. A company has to know exactly what its labor needs will be over the next three years. This number needs to take into account the budget and anticipated growth. It also needs to examine an opportunity cost of how much a company could grow given more personnel. Specifically, how many people must be hired to succeed? Be exact.

Second, determine who must be hired. If a company is looking

for Hispanic men aged 20–50, well, then that company knows their demographic. If a company is more flexible in who they wish to hire, those attributes should be written down. In micro-recruiting, a wide pool can cause problems. It’s like a coach who wants to recruit 12 kids for 3 scholarships. It’s time better spent elsewhere. A coach looks at his roster. Does he need a power forward? Does he need a shooting guard? Further, does he need a leader? Does he need a listener? Does he need offensive or defensive minded kids? Does he need thoroughbreds, energy guys, or junk yard dogs? Coaches know who they are after. Landscape companies are no different. Third, draw a map. A company needs to know the geographic region it wants to draw from. Again, a wider pool can hurt. Anyone who has ever spent an hour or more commuting each morning knows the burnout it causes. If a company recruits in Joliet, and their shop is in Schaumburg, they shouldn’t be shocked when the guys stop coming to work after a few weeks or find a job elsewhere. College coaches know all about homesick kids, high school girlfriends, and the crew from the old neighborhood. Coaches must understand the mental makeup of a kid and what tentacles can suck that kid back home. Fourth, find where the demographic gathers on the map. Spend a rainy day on the internet finding every community organization, job training center, day labor staffing agency, ex-offender program, church, vocational or trade school, street festival, community college, or neighborhood organization in that geographic area. Create a spreadsheet and write down their phone numbers, main contacts, and upcoming events. Fifth, find your assistant coach. Many college basketball coaches use a team of assistant coaches to pound the pavement. These assistant coaches recruit guys with similar stories. Head Coaches don’t send the assistant from the north shore prep school to the West Side of Chicago. They need to create an authenticity to the pitch. If language will be a barrier, find a Spanish-speaker internally who can spearhead this effort. This is the person who needs to talk-the-talk. Look, no one is pounding down the door because landscaping is hard work. Everyone knows that. A company needs an effective champion who can talk to a potential hire and show them the benefits. If the ideal recruit is 25, don’t send the 50 year old. If the ideal recruits are three foremen with leadership training, send a leader. september 15

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➾ C AR E ERS IN HORTICULTUR E SEC TI O N

Sixth, establish connections. College basketball coaches don’t just show up to high school games, unannounced, and buy a ticket and a box of popcorn. They create connections with coaches and athletic directors at high schools that are known for strong programs. Landscape companies need to create a similar web. Many community organizations have workforce development as a mission. Add to the spreadsheet created above the main contact person. Many will send out job ads for free to their constituents. If there are street, neighborhood, or church festivals, look into buying a booth. Have a presence and pass out applications. Establish contacts with local day and temporary staffing agencies. Treat these people like valued business contacts. They are no different from your nursery, stone supplier, or auto detailer. Seventh, be present, be attentive, and close the deal. After all the time and investment, college basketball coaches know that it’s them, and only them, who will face the family and make the final pitch. John Calipari, though reviled by many in the sport, understands the type of recruit he is looking for and is unapologetic about his methods. A landscape owner or hiring manager must invest the time when the moment dictates he be present. If it means spending eight hours in the blazing heat of a street fest, enjoy the tamales. If it means sitting in a community center meeting with a family with five brothers, bring a folding chair. Recruiting is beneath no big-named college coach because it’s part of the job. Running a successful landscape business is no different. This is part of the job.

Lastly, cut down the nets. It’s the moment a coach dreams of. He is the last man up the ladder. He cuts that last piece of the net. He holds it aloft and soaks in the raw emotion and feeling of satisfaction. Everyone has worked with a great team before — a team where everything clicks. A team of reliable, professional, and skilled workers who take companies to new heights. Whenever we talk to successful owners, none take credit for their initial or enduring success. All lay credit at the feet of their employees. These are people who raised a company up and let it believe and understand that another level of excellence existed. It is absolutely vital that companies understand that labor will define them in the next decade. A company’s ability to recruit and retain workers will immediately translate to the bottom line. There are great coaches who are bad recruiters. There are terrible coaches who are excellent recruiters. The legends excel at both aspects of the job. Over the next five years, the labor force will become the scarcest resource in the landscape industry and there are no indicators that this will change. Welcome back to industry growth and all of the challenges that come with it. Championships are won on the floor; great teams are built on the recruiting couch. The job candidates are out there. Go get ‘em. is the Executive Director of the Illinois Landscape Contractor Association and can be reached at sgrams@ilca.net.

SCOTT GRAMS

BRIAN FERGASON, CPCU 651.635.2781 612.247.7346 Cell bfergason@maguireagency.com www.maguireagency.com 1970 Oakcrest Avenue, Suite 300 Roseville, MN 55113

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Business Choice is designed for business owners who rely on their vehicles for their day-to-day operations. It’s available with eligible Chevrolet vehicles and offers great incentives such as valuable upfit equipment. Visit gmbusinesschoice.com today to see if you qualify. To qualify, vehicles must be used in day-to-day operations of your business and not solely for transportation purposes. Must provide proof of business. Visit gmbusinesschoice.com or your Chevrolet or GMC dealer for details. Take delivery by 9/30/12. ©2012 General Motors

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â&#x17E;ž OUT & ABOUT

AN INITIATIVE OF THE MNLA MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE IS TO STAY IN TOUCH AND THANK MEMBERS WITH OCCASIONAL VISITS.

Sue Flynn, MNLA Education & Certification Manager and Sandra Harich of Lilydale Garden Center.

Dan, Kathy and Mary of Waldoch Farms with MNLA Executive Director Cassie Larson.

MNLA Membership Director & Tradeshow Manager, Mary Dunn with Susan Wallace of North Star Stone & Masonry, a division of Cemstone Companies.

Laurie Soderman of Rock Gardens with MNLA Administrative Assistant, Gayle Anderson.

MNLA .biz

september 15

RevolutionaRy Plant HealtH SolutionS FRom Soil to CRown

No matter your landscape challenge, Arborjet is here for you. • Trunk injected insect & disease control • Botanical insect & disease control • Soil amendment & water management

For more information about our products, visit www.arborjet.com or call 781-935-9070

NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE’S

SPECIAL OCCUPANCIES During your work, you may run into the electrical installation situations specifically identified in the National Electrical Code (NEC) — situations that require additional installation requirements for safeguarding people and property. Andrew Lindquist | Owner of Links Systems, Inc.

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EC’s foundational Chapters 1–4 provide general installation requirements for all electrical installations. The subsequent Chapters 5–8 reference electrical installation parameters for: “Special Occupancies,” “Equipment,” “Conditions,” and “Communication Systems.” This article reviews Chapter 5 — “Special Occupancies,” which are situations where the physical location’s characteristics or the actual electrical uses creates circumstances that require mitigating electrical installation procedures to ensure the safeguarding of people and property. For background information, be reminded that NEC’s Chapters 1–8 are each subdivided into Articles, with each Chapter’s Article using a unique three digit reference number, whose initial digit corresponds to a specific Chapter. That is, all Chapter 5 Articles are in the 500–599 three-digit range. Using this numbering convention provides distinguishable information within each chapter. Chapter 5 can be a bit challenging to untangle, so having an overview of all of its Articles is helpful. Within Chapter 5, the opening Articles 500 thru 504 separate the requirements for electrical work, electronic equipment, and wiring into location groups (referred to as “Class” location). Each Class location is categorized as to the type and nature of the hazard it may create. Specifically: • Class I locations are those in which flammable gases or vapors are or may be present in the air in quantities sufficient to produce explosive gas atmospheres. • Class II locations are those that are hazardous because of the presence of combustible dusts. Accumulations of conductive/ nonconductive abrasive/nonabrasive dust, and the hazard it creates. The methods that the affected equipment is cleaned and maintained are factors that may limit the type of equipment that can be installed in Class II locations. • Class III locations are those that are hazardous because of the presence of easily ignitable fibers and flyings. Operating temperature of the equipment and its drying/dehydration effect upon the fibers and flyings are factors that may limit the type of equipment installed in Class III locations.

Furthermore, Class I, II and III locations are subdivided into various Divisions (1 or 2). Divisions are differentiated according to: the likelihood of explosive vapors, dust, or fibers and flyings; existence or potential movement of explosive vapors, dust, or fibers and flyings that may occur in normal operation; the likelihood of explosive vapors, dust, or fibers and flyings existence during maintenance or repair; the likelihood that vapors, dust, or fibers and flyings may cause damage to electrical equipment, resulting in the possibility that the electrical equipment could become a source of ignition. Due to the complexity of the great variety in locations and hazard types that may exist at a particular work site, the prior explanation of Class I, II and III locations along with their associated Divisions is somewhat simplified. It is important to note that it is not the responsibility of installer/contractor to define the Class and Division, but rather the owner, in conjunction with the “Authority Having Jurisdiction” (AHJ) — which is most likely the local building inspector. Nonetheless, the installer/contractor is required to meet the Code installation requirements for the identified Class and Division for their work performed at that site. Be aware that one work site may contain multiple Class and Division locations, thereby requiring potential variations in equipment and installation techniques. Also, within all Class and Division location installations, the apparatus and equipment installed shall be identified (labeled) for use for that location. Article 504 pertains to “Intrinsically Safe Systems.” These are electrical systems that remove the three potential fire components (fuel, oxygen, or the igniting source) in order to reduce the fire hazards. These control systems are referred to as “Article 504 Compliant” systems and are typically found in grain silos, oil refineries, and other such hazardous locations. If you work in such a location, check with the site’s ownership about the “Article 504 Requirements” for their location - they are required to have one. Code requires that most all “Intrinsically Safe” systems and associated components be “listed.” “Listed” meaning that equipment and material be included in a list published by an organization that is acceptable to the AHJ. Typically a UL listing is acceptable. september 15

MNLA .biz

➾ NE C’S SPECIAL OCC UPAN C I ES

Articles 505 & 506 present the parameters for a “Zone Classification Location” system, which is an alternative to the “Class and Division Location” system described in Chapter 5. Article 505 establishes Zones 01 & 02 for gas and vapor hazards. Article 506 establishes Zones 20, 21 & 22 for dust, fibers and flyings. Both articles consume twenty-four pages of the Code book and are very specific in defining locations, materials, product markings, etc. Detailed review of these two articles goes well beyond the scope of this writing. Least be said, you would want to review these articles in relation to the work site’s “Article 504 Requirements” document. Article 510 identifies the scope of Articles 511 through 517 for occupancies (or parts of occupancies) that are or may be hazardous because of atmospheric concentrations of flammable liquids, gasses, vapors or because of accumulations of material that may be readily ignitable. Article 511 through 517 modify Articles 500 through 504 by allowing the AHJ to judge the applications of specific rules in respect to “unusual conditions” that may exist in the various occupancies described in Articles 511 through 517. Examples of “Special Occupancies” include: garages, motor fuel dispensing facilities, aircraft hangers, bulk storage facilities, spray application facilities, and health care facilities. In many cases, the occupancy being identified not only includes the building, but also areas adjacent or surrounding the building(s). Article 518 describes “Assembly Occupancies.” These are buildings, portions of buildings, structures, and associated areas designed or intended to gather together 100 or more persons for deliberations, worship, entertainment, eating, and so forth. The Code’s safety concern is that these types of gatherings pose evacuation difficulties in case of fire and other such hazards. Article 520 through 555 includes a wide variety of facilities. For example: theaters, amusement attractions, carnivals, RV parks, marinas, boatyards, and the like. These facilities are specifically identified due to their unique electrical safety environment. For example, when working in a marina, the fluctuating water level, movement of boats, and people movement requires the need for additional electrical installation and equipment safety practices. Article 590 describes “Temporary Installations.” These are installations that are permitted during the construction period. “Temporary Installations” need to be removed immediately upon completion of construction or purpose for which the wiring was installed. Specific to designated “Holiday Lighting” work, this “Temporary Installation” is permitted for a period not to exceed 90 days. Although the wiring requirements for “Temporary Installations” appear to be of a lower standard than other wiring installations, they are not. Rather, the “Temporary Installation” requirements are different, not greater or lesser. The NEC recognizes that “Temporary Installation” work needs to be economically viable. Therefore, any Code standards allowed within Article 590 take into account the temporary nature of the installation vs. the inherently higher cost of using long-term (permanent) wiring materials and techniques. Overall, the “Special Occupancies” Articles provided in Chapter 5 are for locations where the actual facility (or use of the facility) may create specific situations that require additional measures to ensure the safeguarding of people and property. Although we may rarely 50

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Although we may rarely work in special occupancies locations, we need to recognize such locations and perform our due diligence to account for the specific location’s safeguarding, installation, and equipment requirements. work in special occupancies locations, we need to recognize such locations and perform our due diligence to account for the specific location’s safeguarding, installation, and equipment requirements. Typically, “Special Occupancies” work requires closer coordination and communication with the facility owner and the local AHJ. The coordination, safeguarding, labor, and perhaps special equipment needed to meet additional Code requirements inherently creates a higher installation cost than in other locations. Be sure to account for these additional expenses in your installation bid. ANDREW LINDQUIST, owner of Links Systems, Inc. can be reached at alindquist@linkssystemsinc.com.

Join us for a full day of education prior to the Northern Green Expo.

Tuesday, January 12, 2016 Minneapolis Convention Center

Landscape Lighting Design and Advanced Lighting Control Applications (PLT Relicensure)

More information and online registration is on www.MNLA.biz. There will be NO onsite registration. Please note that registration fees are separate from those for the Northern Green Expo.

(pending DOLI approval)

This class provides a total of eight hours of continuing education credits for the Power Limited technician license, with material orientated specifically towards the landscape lighting specialist. Take away greater knowledge of landscape lighting design and control applications, get updated on NEC code, and receive continuing education credits for your PLT license.

Design Track: Niche Landscape Design

Expand your knowledge, and grow and sustain your design business. This class will provide information on a variety of niche landscape design ideas you can add to your design repertoire. Topics such as: therapeutic gardens, hell strip gardening, nomow lawns, small space urban design, meadow gardens, and rain gardens. Presented by industry experts, including: Dr. Jeannie Larson, Arboretum/Center for Spirituality and Healing; Evelyn J. Hadden; Jason Rathe, Field Outdoor Spaces; Peter MacDonagh, Kestrel Design Group; and Roy Diblik, Northwind Perennial Farm.

CEO Symposium: The Transformative CEO

Includes networking reception with heavy appetizers and presentation by Jeffrey Scott, Jeffrey Scott Consulting, Inc.

The MNLA CEO Symposium has become the “place to be” on Tuesday night. This popular evening creates an opportunity for CEO-level members to connect. Jeffrey Scott will discuss behaviors that CEO’s and managers need to power their companies to greatness. Scott will touch on common traps that The need to be avoided, and how to create sustainable success by adopting Minnesota these transformative behaviors. Learn how to build and sustain Turf and Grounds the company of your dreams by fulfilling the leadership Foundation will also present a potential within you! full-day Super Tuesday education program on January 12, 2016. Please watch for details to come in your inbox, the Scoop, and on www.MTGF.org.

â&#x17E;ž S E CT I O N TITLE

READY FOR WINTER Landscaping is a seasonal business. As Minnesotans we understand because it can seem like summer is just a blink of an eye. Many of us even plan for that seasonality of our job if we are smart; but how well do we plan? Diana Grundeen | Trio Landscaping

september 15

MNLA .biz

➾ RE A D Y F O R W I N T E R

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I have been in the industry for 20 years now — working in a garden center, employed as a residential designer and now owning my own landscape design company — and in each of those roles I planned for winter a little differently. All were in the same industry, but each one took a different level of planning. As I write this it is July. It’s hot, the phone is still ringing, the jobs are going in, there’s time in the schedule to sell a few more for this year and yet, I know I have mentioned in more than a few of my client meetings that they can let me know if they are interested in having plans drawn over the winter. I do like to add in something about it being summer yet with plenty of time to still get work done, but for those clients still hemming and hawing or for those that are planning ahead, why not ask if they are happy with a winter plan? I let them know that it helps me out as I like to stash away some fun in winter and that there is always something for me to be working on when shovels of a different nature are the main tool to be using. I have had a number of clients appreciate this as they were looking to install in spring anyway, while others are reminded we have a limited season to work in. Ok, there is also plenty of other stuff, as a designer, that I plan to save for winter, like playing with new software or really digging into a new style or feature to implement in my designs. However, I found that the styles and features were much more interesting when I was applying them to a particular project I had on the table. One plan I was working on over the winter gave me the opportunity to learn about low allergen landscapes. The client had a need for reducing their allergies and had been introduced to the idea. I picked it up from there and spent hours researching plants for their pollen output. Really interesting stuff, when you think about it, but had I been doing that plan during the height of the season it would not have been as much fun. I would have felt rushed and might have missed some great plant opportunities. The best part is, I now have that information more assembled and top of mind as we address allergies for other clients. The winter study really paid off, and I had planned ahead by letting the client

have the opportunity to not rush in the fall. But we all know that winter is a great time to be studying, don’t we? That must be a big reason the Green Expo is held in January with lots of education and opportunity for new things when we have time to embrace them. But, we don’t save all our learning for winter as there is a lot to be done during the season, and there is other stuff to do in winter as well. As a business owner, I see winter arrival as a time for slowing down…and working more like a normal person. Now I know this particular thought process is not shared by all in our industry, or even in my group of other designer friends. For me working like a normal person means I am putting in only about 32–40 hours a week. Sounds normal but might be crazy for a landscape firm (that doesn’t plow) in winter. Some like to work less figuring they did more in the spring and summer so they can afford to take a break, or deserve the break. To have the luxury to work at a relaxed pace is nice, keeps you sharp and helps make the jump back into spring less shocking. To do nothing, well that feels a bit absurd for me, as I really don’t think I can walk away all that much. It’s easier to get the little things done that got overlooked, things that can make you more efficient. I used to have the winters off with the opportunity to do something else for an income over the winter if I wanted. That’s what was so great about working in the garden center. But as a business owner, I know there is always something to be done no matter the time of year in regards to business itself. As the employee, however, education and industry participation is a big part of making sure you are at the top of your game. There is even networking outside of the industry that is beneficial and can be done with more intent in the “off season.” All of it feeds into a big part of being ready for winter: being financially ready. Has there been enough cash flow to keep things going for the next few months so that we don’t have to scramble? Can we sit back and be more relaxed and invest in new things to

learn or use? For our industry this can be a wide-ranging depending on if you are a big company or a small owner/operator or even an employee, so I won’t get into details. But if you haven’t planned ahead, you’re not ready for winter and will have to work your butt off somehow. The reinvesting and relaxing can only come with better planning. Take a minute now to check — are you going to be ready for winter? Is there something you can do, can you push harder for a lingering job, can you upsell a client? Can you rein in a bit of your expenses? Why delay these things to be done over winter when they will benefit you more by being done now? As I look back at the beginning of my career when I was young and new, I remember that to be ready for winter was to have another job lined up, another source of income. I had worked with community schools education programs, something with a temporary and flexible schedule. Then it became working with enough in savings, so when the season stopped paying out I would have enough (a spouse with a regular paycheck was also a huge plus)! There were jobs that the commissions were spread out to help keep a check going all year, and that was great too. But during the winter there was a big open part of the day, and it was easy to get bored. I volunteered more then, as I had more time to give, more to my church, to the school. I volunteer now as well, but less in person, less hands on. I make it work for a busier me. As I write this, a big part of me is ready for winter. Ready for the rush to “get more done in less time” to be over. Ready to breathe and find balance for myself and my family. But I also know from experience that by January, I’m ready for spring to be here again!

DIANA GRUNDEEN

can be reached at Diana@triolandscaping.com.

september 15

MNLA .biz

➾ OUT & ABOUT

2015

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF GOLF! Thank you to all who joined us for the 25th Annual Widmer Golf Tournament on July 21! A bright, breezy and beautiful day at Oak Marsh Golf Course made for a successful event, which included hole contests, a raffle and a buffet dinner. Funds raised from the golf tournament support the MNLA Foundation Research Fund.

t Tournamen CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS!

First Place Team: Brian Bodsgard, Urban Escapes Courtney Epperly, Urban Escapes Tom Miller, Belgard Hardscapes Brett Nutting, JLM Landscape

Second Place Team: Mark Peterson, Task Masters, Inc. Kurt Blauer Scott Pairolero, Anchor Block an Oldcastle Company Scott Hertzenberg, Timberwall Landscape Products

Prize sponsored by Bailey Nurseries.

Prize sponsored by Ziegler CAT.

Closest to Pin Winner: Kelly Walker Walker Lawn and Landscape

Longest Drive Winner: Tom Miller Belgard Hardscapes

Longest Putt Winner: Dale Johnson Environmental Landforms

Hit the Green Winner: Tom Miller Belgard Hardscapes

Prize sponsored by Hiway Federal Credit Union.

Prize sponsored by GM Fleet and Commercial.

Prize sponsored by Bachman’s Wholesale Nursery and Hardscapes.

Prize sponsored by RDO Equipment.

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THANK YOU WIDMER GOLF TOURNAMENT SPONSORS! Beverage Cart:

Prize for Champion Team:

Prize for Second Place Team:

Longest Drive Contest:

Closest to Pin Contest:

Longest Putt Contest:

WHOLESALE NURSERY & HARDSCAPES

Dinner:

Willow River sent a team of golfers to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tournament.

Hit the Green Contest: WHOLESALE NURSERY & HARDSCAPES

Hole Sponsors:

WHOLESALE NURSERY & HARDSCAPES

RDO Team. TM

L A N D S C A P E + M A S O N RY

A foursome of golfers, including Bert Swanson (left), Chair of MNLA Foundation Board of Trustees.

september 15

MNLA .biz

Did you know? Hedberg Supply will partially match your contribution to the MNLA Research and Education Partners Fund. Get the details - www.hedbergsupply.com/mnla.cfm

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WOW YOUR CUSTOMERS

3 KEYS FOR DELIVERING GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE The term “customer service” evokes different images in people’s minds. One image could be that of friendly, smiling, helpful employees who go out of their way to serve you. Or it could be the opposite — indifferent, unfriendly employees who can’t wait for you to leave or hang up the phone. Dennis Snow | Snow & Associates, Inc.

september 15

MNLA .biz

➾ C US T OMER SERVICE

ost people can recall many examples of poor customer service. Whether it’s the help desk employee that puts you on hold for 20 minutes or the store cashier who engages in a personal conversation instead of ringing up your purchase, poor customer service can make people feel frustrated and vow never to do business with that company again. On the other hand, great service feels like a gift. It makes us want to continue to do business with an organization over the long haul. And that alone is the secret to business success — retaining customers by providing great customer service. With so much competition out there, customer loyalty is the single most important attribute your business can have. You achieve loyalty by doing the “little things” that make customers want to deal with you again and again and recommend you to their friends. The real difference is how a business makes their customers feel. If customers feel valued, most will remain loyal. If they feel under-valued, sooner or later they will defect to a competitor. Several reasons exist for why customers defect from a company. The customer may move away, a competitor may lure them away, or they may leave because they are unhappy with the product. However, a recent study found that a whopping sixty-eight percent of customers who defect do so because of poor service. That’s a sobering statistic. The study further noted how customers defined poor service: “an attitude of indifference on the part of employees.” So while bad service certainly causes customers to leave, indifferent service can be just as detrimental. With two out of three customers citing poor customer service as a reason for leaving, what can your company do to achieve customer loyalty? Assuming your products and prices are competitive, you need to focus on providing superior customer service in order to gain loyalty. To do that, here are three simple steps to help you make sure your customers stay with your company.

Look through the “lens of the customer.”

No matter what industry you’re in, chances are that you interact with customers at some level. Realize that customers can be shoppers at a store, patrons at a bank, patients of a doctor, clients of a law firm, etc. Because customers have their choice of where to obtain goods or services, the business has to convince the customer that 60

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they truly care. An engaged, caring employee raises the customer’s confidence that the business is looking out for the customer’s interests. When that employee suggests a new product or service, the customer trusts that his or her best interest is at heart. On the flip side, if the customer senses a lack of caring, he/she will question the motives behind any recommendations. Every business has its jargon, so be careful to speak in a language that customers understand. Successful businesses speak the language of the customer, not the language of their own industry. Take, for example, the banking industry. Would a young couple buying their first house be looking through the same lens as a customer who buys and sells real estate for a living? Of course not. That young couple purchasing their first house is excited and nervous — the lens with which they are experiencing this purchase. Therefore, they need loan officers who are excited for them, who explain the terms in everyday language, and who provide information that will make their buying experience easier. A bank that shows that level of care is likely to earn that young couple’s ongoing business. The same applies for customer complaints, which can be frustrating for customers and employees alike. As employees, we often can’t understand why a customer is making such a big deal about a particular issue. Didn’t the customer read the contract? (Probably not.) Doesn’t the customer understand that researching a problem takes time? (No, they don’t.) Remember, it’s not the customer’s job to see through the business’ lens; it’s the business’ job to see through the customer’s lens and show an understanding of the customer’s frustration. Next time you are working with a customer, stop and ask yourself: “Am I seeing this experience through the customer’s lens?”

When it comes to a company’s environment, recognize that “everything speaks.”

Imagine visiting a fine dining restaurant for a special occasion. You’ve been looking forward to the meal and

you’ve heard good things about the restaurant. Then imagine noticing something crusty dried to your silverware and old lipstick marks on your water glass. Wouldn’t you begin worrying about the cleanliness and quality of everything else in the restaurant? Everything speaks! Now imagine a customer entering your place of business. She notices trash in the parking lot. When she enters the reception area, she sees delivery boxes stacked by the receptionist’s desk. She sees employees standing around eating and having personal conversations. All of this detracts from your business’s image. Consciously or unconsciously, the customer’s antennae goes up and makes them question, “Do I really want to spend my money here?” The “everything speaks” philosophy means that all employees understand that even the little things count. So pay attention to everything, including whether the physical environment is neat and clean, whether all necessary supplies are available, whether the employees are dressed appropriately, etc. Anything that sticks out as “wrong” becomes an intrusion on the customer experience. These intrusions add up and result in customer concern. On the other hand, when customers sense an atmosphere of professionalism, care, and order, they feel a sense of confidence.

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How many times have you seen employees in a business walk right by trash on the floor or a display that has been bumped out of alignment? Employees who understand that everything speaks will take a moment to pick up some wadded paper and straighten the display because they know that such behaviors have a direct impact on the customer experience. Take a moment to think about your company’s environment. september 15

MNLA .biz

➾ C US T OMER SERVICE

Since everything speaks, what are the details saying about your organization?

FOR ONE OF THEIR TEN SESSIONS, THE GREEN INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE FOCUSES ON CUSTOMER SERVICE. Here are a few perspectives from this year’s participants. From a design/installation firm: We coach our managers to be engaging with the homeowners whenever possible. Filling the client in on the progress of the day, talking with them about how some of the processes work, and asking them if they have any questions about the process seems to go a long way. It seems there are always questions (sometimes concerns) and it’s better to confront and solve any issues they may have right away as opposed to a few days/weeks down the road when something may be significantly harder to adjust/fix. From a landscape management company: For customer service, communication is everything. I manage the outdoor services for townhome communities. Communicating with my team, property managers, and board presidents about anything I see is very important. This could be anything from “property looks great,” or “this area could use some attention.” Also, if I see a problem make sure to communicate to everyone first so everyone knows that we are handling it. Fixing a problem before it becomes a problem. Board presidents and property managers are very happy when something they didn’t even know was a problem is being fixed. Another way we measure customer service is that I send out weekly updates to all associations. It includes this week’s events and any upcoming events or projects, what we fixed, why we changed the irrigation run times, etc. It makes it easy for people to communicate back to me with their comments or questions. At the end of the update I like to throw a little cherry on top and include a fun horticultural fact. I have received high reception on the updates in general. I took out the fun facts one week because I thought no one was reading them. However, I got a few emails back saying “where’s the fun fact?” Letting people know you care goes a long way.

Create customer “wows.”

Small gestures can create customer wows. Consider the housekeepers working in the hotels at Walt Disney World. Housekeepers have a tough job. Cleaning up after people on vacation is a challenge. Even in such a challenging job, Disney’s housekeepers will do little things that make guests say, “Wow.” For example, while spending a day in the Magic Kingdom children will often leave their stuffed Disney characters in their hotel room. Housekeepers have been known to position the characters with playing cards in their hands or tuck the characters into the children’s bed to create a moment of magic. Employees can do many things to create wows. Remembering a customer’s name is a huge wow, creating a feeling of family. Letting a customer know that another product may better meet their needs is another wow. Sending a goody basket with a handwritten note to that young couple who just took out their first mortgage is a wow. Some wows are small and some are large, but make no mistake about it — wows add up. One of the most powerful ways to create wows is to share best practices with fellow employees. Hold a company meeting so employees can share things that they have done that dazzled customers. Just talking about these behaviors increases the likelihood that others will adopt some of the practices or create new ones of their own. It is also likely that some wows can become standard procedure, whether it’s a grocery store bakery handing out fresh-baked cookies to children, or salespeople escorting customers to a product rather than simply pointing. Next time you’re helping a customer, ask yourself, “Will my behaviors make this customer say or think, ‘wow’?” Take Action Now

Excellent service is not about policy manuals. Excellent service is about excellent behaviors. When employees focus on excellent service, the results can be magical. Customers are happy, employees are happy, and shareholders are happy. Everyone wins. The key is to make service excellence a habit. Encourage every employee to internalize the above steps so they become habits. When employees focus on these principles, your company will achieve the most powerful result of all — intense customer loyalty.

MNLA created the Green Industry Leadership Institute in partnership with Resultants For Business, Inc. The program is a year-long cohort-based learning experience where your company’s top prospects fast-track their leadership capacity, their confidence in decision-making, and their community of peer-advisors. Space is limited to 15, and applications are accepted from November 1, 2015 through January 22, 2016. Find out more at www.MNLA.biz. 62

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DENNIS SNOW is a business author, speaker, and consultant who helps organizations develop world-class customer service. He is the author of two books, “Lessons From the Mouse: A Guide for Applying Disney World’s Secrets of Success to Your Organization, Your Career, and Your Life” (DC Press), and “Unleashing Excellence: The Complete Guide to Ultimate Customer Service.” (Wiley). Dennis can be reached at www. snowassociates.com, or at 407.294.1855. Join us for Snow’s keynote presentation at Expo 2016 to learn more.

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➾ P OLLI NATORS

POLLINATOR RESEARCH HORTICULTURE INDUSTRY-FUNDED POLLINATOR RESEARCH UNDERWAY

Jennifer Gray

Research Programs Administrator, Horticultural Research Institute

THE HORTICULTURAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE, in collaboration with AmericanHort, established the Horticultural Industry Bee & Pollinator Stewardship Initiative in 2014. One of the primary goals of the Initiative is to identify and fund research that will help answer key science questions and fill gaps needed to inform, design, and refine an industry stewardship program. The Initiative’s focus on research is a key component in establishing a clearer understanding of horticulture’s impact on pollinators.

One researcher who received project funding this year is Dr. Richard Cowles, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (Windsor, CT). Dr. Cowles is analyzing pesticide residue in pollen and nectar on neonicotinoid-treated plants. Using plants commonly used in the landscape, Cowles expects to further develop an understanding of systemic insecticide update and potential interactions with nectar and pollen. Why is this important? Currently, there are significant gaps in data related to the concentration of systemic insecticides in pollen and nectar. Establishing whether treated plants (when treated properly) are safe to bees and other pollinators will aid in setting stewardship standards for growers and assist in educating retail sellers and consumers about grower practices. To date, Cowles has embarked upon dose-response tests on minute pirate bugs, using neonicotinoid insecticides and their suggested replacements. An early goal for the project is to establish whether the pirate bugs can be utilized in the bioassays (ie: can the team quantify the insecticide residues in the pirate bugs). His team is further investigating the active ingredients, application methods, and application timing relative to flowering as factors that may influence the residues found in nectar and pollen of ornamental plants. A second project underway is led by Dr. Daniel Potter of the University of Kentucky (Lexington, KY). Dr. Potter and his team are working to identify best management practices by which producers and landscape managers can protect plants from pests while simultaneously mitigating risks to bees. His research also has the potential to support planting recommendations for landscapes that sustain bees throughout the growing season, identify plants that warrant particular caution when using systemic insecticides, and highlight plants whose floral characteristics reduce the potential for bees to be impacted by systemic insecticides.

MNLA .biz

september 15

Dr. Potter’s research team collecting flowers.

Team working to remove anthers with pollen. Potter’s team has already implemented work to assess the extent and longevity of translocation of soil-applied imidacloprid and dinotefuran into nectar and pollen. Flowers from early-blooming species in the project were collected, bagged, and transported to a lab where anthers with pollen were removed from each flower by forceps. Flowers were spun in centrifuges to remove nectar. Samples are stored until all three plant species in the project have been sampled. From the lab, they will travel to be analyzed in a blind review for insecticide residues. Potter’s team has also begun work to document bee assemblages (types of bees, bee species richness and diversity) associated with numerous species of flowering woody ornamentals, and to rate/rank those plants in terms of attractiveness to bees. To achieve this, bees are being sampled from approximately 40 species of common flowering trees and shrubs across multiple sites. Bees are netted, preserved, coiffed in a fan-driven bee drier, pinned, labeled, and identified. Comparisons are being made between native and non-native plants, trees versus shrubs, and plants having particular sets of floral characteristics. This is one of the most extensive pollinator surveys ever done on woody plants and, when completed, will form the basis for science-based recommendations for bee-friendly landscape plants.

Horticulture

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➾ P OLLI NATORS

POLLINATOR CHALLENGE NATIONAL POLLINATOR GARDEN NETWORK LAUNCHES MILLION POLLINATOR GARDEN CHALLENGE

ON JUNE 3 OF THIS YEAR,

dozens of conservation and gardening organizations joined together to form the National Pollinator Garden Network and launch a new nationwide campaign – the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge. Designed to accelerate growing efforts across America, the Network launched the Challenge in support of President Barack Obama’s call to action to reverse the decline of pollinating insects, such as honey bees and native bees, as well as monarch butterflies. Representatives of the Network joined First Lady Michelle Obama at the White House garden, which includes a section dedicated to support pollinators, to formally launch the Challenge. The National Pollinator Garden Network collectively represents nearly one million active gardeners and 15,000 schoolyard gardens. The Network is challenging the nation to reach the goal of one million additional pollinator gardens by the end of 2016. The Network will work to provide resources for individuals, community groups, government agencies and the garden industry to create more pollinator habitat through sustainable gardening practices and conservation efforts. As noted in President Obama’s 2014 Presidential Memorandum on Pollinator Health and recently released National Strategy to Promote the Health of Honey Bees and Other Pollinators, federal action combined with private sector partnerships and strong citizen engagement can restore pollinator populations to healthy levels. Pollinator gardens provide one way to reverse that decline by offering food, water, cover and places to raise young for honey bees, native bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators. To tackle these challenges, the Network is rallying hundreds of thousands of gardeners, horticultural professionals, schools, and volunteers to help reach a million pollinator gardens over the next two years. Any individual can contribute by planting for pollinators and joining this effort to provide a million pollinator gardens across the United States. Every habitat of every size counts, from window boxes and garden plots to farm borders, golf courses, school gardens, corporate and university campuses. Everywhere we live, work, play and worship can, with small improvements, offer essential food and shelter for pollinators.

“If we all work together — individuals, communities, farmers, land managers, and local, state, and federal agencies — we can ensure that every American child has a chance to enjoy the beauty of creatures like bees, monarch butterflies, and hummingbirds,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “Bees are vital in seed and agriculture production, as well as general ecosystem health, and ensuring their wellbeing is a priority,” said Andrew W. LaVigne, president and CEO of the American Seed Trade Association. “National Garden Bureau supports gardens of all types, done by any type of gardener for any reason and gardening for the health of pollinators is a priority for NGB and our members,” said Diane Blazek, executive director of the National Garden Bureau. “We are thrilled to be part of the National Pollinator Garden Network and look forward to the day we reach one million pollinator gardens registered in the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge.” “Horticulture has a huge opportunity to be part of the solution to the threats facing pollinators, and we look forward to working together to meet the challenge,” said Michael Geary, president and CEO of AmericanHort. “All pollinators are critical to our ecosystems, as well as our Nation’s economic well-being. We know that honey bees alone contribute over $15 billion to U.S. food production,” said Jennifer Tedeschi, COO at National Gardening Association. “NGA has worked for over 40 years to educate people of all ages about the personal and community benefits of gardening. We are thrilled to be partnering with so many experts in conservation, ecosystems, and horticulture to bring this challenge to the American people and engage them in protecting pollinators thereby protecting our environment and food systems.”

LEARN MORE AT www.millionpollinatorgardens.org or join the discussion on Twitter through the hashtag #PolliNation. For a full list of National Pollinator Garden Network partner organizations visit www. millionpollinatorgardens.org.

september 15

MNLA .biz

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NEW

SCOOP COMING In January, MNLA will be introducing a redesigned Scoop. Our goal is to provide even greater value to you, the member, through this vital communication service. To do that, we need to know what your current needs are! We would like to gather your feedback on how you read The Scoop, which content you value most, and what you wish we would include. Please take five minutes and give us your opinions via a quick 5-question survey found here: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ScoopFeedback. If you’d rather forward your comments via email, send those to jon@mnla.biz. WRITERS WANTED We’re also looking for members who love to write – members who want to share useful information,

6 WISHES OF A DYING LANDSCAPER

If you die with the most toys and fastest cars, have you succeeded?

Jeffrey Scott | Jeffrey Scott Consulting, Inc.

september 15

MNLA .biz

➾ SIX WISHES

esearch shows that at the end of your life you will measure your success differently. In any event, dying with the fastest cars won’t get you into heaven — and there is always someone with a faster car. Use this article and the “wishes of a dying entrepreneur” as a checklist to make sure your business is giving you the life of your dreams. 1. “I wish I let myself be successful.”

Entrepreneurs try hard to bend the will of the universe to their own vision, and yet the world has its own way of working things out. You have a choice of being frustrated or being happy and successful. Aim for success, not perfection. What could you do at work and at home to create more happiness? How much more could you accomplish if you aimed for “success” as your goal instead of perfection? 2. “I should have nurtured my inner circle.”

Don’t work so hard that you forgo the relationships that you had built along the way. Take time out to reconnect with people who helped you get to where you are today. This is your inner circle, the friends, family and confidants who helped you along the way. Who do you need to reconnect with from your past? From your present?

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MNLA .biz

september 15

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When is the best time of your day, week, or month to do so? (For me it is the weekend.) Bring joy in your life and your friend’s life, by staying in contact with them. 3. “I should have had the courage to state what’s on my mind.”

If you are thinking or feeling something, say it. Don’t worry as much about thinking you are going to offend people. Bonnie Ware found that dying people wish they had expressed their feelings more and suppressed them less. This holds true for entrepreneurs and business

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from the executive Director . . . . . . . . . . 8 Green for Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 foundation Scholarships . . . . . . . . . 16-20 Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 business Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-30, 32-35 Certiﬁcation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-41 Landscape awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 foundation research. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Government aﬀairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44-45 Landscape Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Public relations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Sustainable environment. . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Northern Green expo . . 50-52, 54-55, 57 board of Directors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 recycling Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58-59 Irrigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Plant of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

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➾ S IX W ISHES

leaders. Being passive aggressive won’t help the other person, and it won’t help you. 4. “I wish I’d played more, and worked less.”

The old expression that no one ever died wishing they worked harder is true; a practical “solution” is that of a better work/life balance. Taking time out to enjoy the fruits of your hard labor. This comes from choice, time management skills, efficiency and priority. Just because you are working for you family, doesn’t mean your family wants you to always be working. What personal activities do you want to do this week for yourself? Schedule it before you schedule work. What family activities do you want to do this year? Put them on the schedule now, before work takes over. In a separate study, many dying people said they wished they had spent more time barefoot. How about you? 5. “I wish I embraced my own vision. Whose life was I living?”

Most expectations are self-imposed; coming from self-talk, both positive and negative. Don’t go to your death bed trying to please everyone but yourself. The key to entrepreneurial success is embracing your own vision and seeing it through. What expectations do you have for yourself that you want to fulfill this year?

6. “I should have taken more action and risks.”

The biggest regret you will have on your death bed is not “what you did” but rather “what you didn’t do.” As an entrepreneur, what idea do you have in your brain or your heart that you are holding yourself back from doing? List out the two big ideas have you been carrying around in your head. Talk about them with someone you trust and make a plan to “just do it.” Breakthrough idea:

Sometimes you can learn more from the dying than the living. Take action:

Score yourself 0 to 10 on each of these regrets; and identify one action you can take to raise your score in each area. Special thanks to Bronnie Ware, who wrote “The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying.” JEFFREY SCOTT, MBA is devoted to helping others achieve profound success. He facilitates the Leader’s Edge peer group for landscape business owners. To learn more visit www.GetTheLeadersEdge.com. Jeffrey is presenting Habits of Highly Effective CEOs at the 2016 CEO Symposium, as well as providing two sessions at Expo.

What would success look like a year from now if you followed your own compass?

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER CONTENT Do you know about the many resources available to you FREE with membership? You can access all this great material anytime by logging in to www.MNLA.biz. Browse the MEMBERS ONLY dropdown on the far right of the menu bar.

 GARDEN CENTERS, CHECK OUT:

Customer Resource Sheets

Are you using fact sheets as a handout for your customers? We’ve noticed these flyers on many garden center walls, so we’ve made them into an even better resource. High resolution PDFs with bigger, clearer titles are now available for download. The collection includes 20 different sheets including the new sheet on pollinator-friendly plants! So, stop copying and start printing in high resolution today.

ator-Friendly Creating a Pollin in Minnesota Environment

plants in lawns • Control nuisance plants are once other flowering garden. blooming in your schedules to • Adjust mowing or evening when early morning not actively foraging. pollinators are within gardens. • Hand pull weeds the early in • Apply herbicides not pollinators are site conditions morning when 1. Determine your space, and light actively foraging. (soil type, garden when applying exposure). • Spot-treat plants versus of plants that will herbicides or pesticides 2. Select a menu s. species broadcast treatment provide three flowering to ensure Management period Pest bloom in each • Adopt Integrated s food source IPM uses there is a continuou (IPM) in your garden. to manage season. pests about n throughout the informatio the least possible of plants with pest damage with 3. Select a variety property, and the and shapes. hazard to people, different colors ering plants environment. and 4. Selecting single-flow understand pests source of pollen • Identify and provides a greater wering beneficial insects. and nectar. Double-flo petals on with extra insect damage plants (flowers • Accept some large flower that that produce a plants. lack a rose) frequently landscape resembles pesticides on plants -friendly of use • Avoid the An ideal pollinator pollen and nectar. a healthy and diverse that are flowering. should support grass species to s by providing three different early pollinator the of Select in 5. population and overwintering • Apply pesticides sources and nesting when provide nesting abundant food morning or evening them in clusters. keeping the aesthetic sites, and plant not actively foraging. habitats, while pollinators are In addition to in clumps of one appeal of the yard. 6. Flowers clustered more pollinators s, benefits of helping pollinator species will attract include improved l plants scattered diverse habitats than individua decreased soil erosion, garden. soil human health, throughout the quality, and better s improved water Management Practice plants – health. to needs -attractive le comparab • Leave pollinator and clover – in Pollinators have Food s water, and shelter. such as dandelion full of humans: food, season blooms pollen, overripe lawns for early sources are nectar, leaves. Water is pollen and nectar. fruit, sap, and plant ponds and ate.mn.us org, www.mda.st ate.mn.us, www.xerces. supplied from shallow

-friendly Creating a pollinator and butterflies is bees n environment for for the productio critically important States. It is United of crops in the 30% of food crops reported that over s. Flowering depend on pollinator on pollinators for plants also rely diverse n. Providing a seed productio -friendly plants landscape of pollinator t action each of is the most significan strong crop and sustain to us can take n. seed productio

Getting Started

PollinatorFriendly Plants

umn.edu, www.bwsr.st on.umn.edu, www.beelab. sda.gov, www.extensi

& Minnesota Nursery Published by the

Sources: www.aphis.u

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 LANDSCAPE DESIGNERS & CONTRACTORS, CHECK OUT:

The Value of Landscape Design Flyer

You know sophisticated landscape design adds true value to a home, but do your potential clients know the numbers? Featuring university-documented research, this flyer demonstrates how sophisticated landscape design, trees, and other landscaping features increase the value of homes and quality of life. Bring these colorful flyers to your next client meeting.

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september 15

MNLA .biz

8/24/2015 12:22:50 PM

➾ MNLA FOUN DATION

2015 GARDEN PARTY A DELIGHTFUL AFTER N O O N , D ESPI TE U N P RE D I CTA BL E M I N N E S O TA W E AT H E R

EVENT SPONSORS Doctorate ($1,000) Bailey’s Gertens Horticulture Services Steve Kelley and Arla Carmichiel Masters ($500) Countryside Gardens, Inc. James and Mary Meyer Wagner Greenhouses, Inc. Associate ($250) Monrovia

Guests stroll through one of the many gardens. ON AUGUST 6, 2015,

while severe storms were at bay, over 75 industry professionals joined each other in networking and garden viewing for the 2015 Garden Party at the private residence of Steve Kelley and Arla Carmichiel, of Kelley and Kelley Nurseries. In addition to an afternoon of fellowship, the MNLA Foundation, in partnership with Steve and Arla, offered the beautiful music of a harpist, complimentary beverages, and a delicious dessert bar. The MNLA Foundation appreciates those who attended this unique, one of a kind event. A very special thank you to our event sponsors and supporters for their financial contributions to the 2015 Garden Party, as well as Steve and Arla for sharing their expertise and offering their gracious hospitality. All funds raised from this event go to the MNLA Foundation’s Career Development Fund.

Many companies rewarded their employees with a trip to the Garden Party. Here, Dean Engelmann, MNLA Foundation Trustee and Garden Party Committee Chair, visits with his team from Tangletown Gardens.

Steve Kelley and Arla Carmichiel, 2015 Garden Party hosts

Baccalaureate ($100) Swanson’s Nursery Consulting Event Supporters Barbara & Laverne Dunsmore Douglas Carnival Mike and Jean Heger Heidi Heiland Debbie Lonnee Wally Marx Bert Swanson Dennis and Vicki Ullom

Garden Party guests were treated with complimentary beverages, a dessert bar, and music by renowned Minnesota harpist, Andrea Stern.

september 15

MNLA .biz

➾ MNLA N EWS

MNLA NEWS SEPTEM B ER 2 0 1 5

LT. GOV. SMITH VISITS MISSISSIPPI TOPSOILS In June of this year, the St. Cloud Times reported on a visit Minnesota Lt. Gov. Tina Smith made to MNLA member Mississippi Topsoils. She was there to learn more about a Value Added Grant from the MDA’s Agricultural Growth, Research and Innovation program. Owners Brad Matuska and Dean Miller provided information on the business, answered questions and took officials on a tour of the facility. The company received a Value Added Grant from the MDA’s Agricultural Growth, Research and Innovation program. The funds allowed Mississippi Topsoils to expand operations by constructing a climate-controlled storage area for its bulk mix ingredients. Matuska said that allowed Mississippi Topsoils to increase its bulk blended compost revenue by 50 percent. “It is nice to be recognized,” Miller said. “The Value Added Grant has been huge for us. It’s pretty nice to see how it can actually be used to help grow our business.”

OLDCASTLE ACQUIRES ANCHOR BLOCK AND ANCHOR WALL SYSTEMS Oldcastle Architectural has acquired Anchor Block Co. and Anchor Wall Systems, giving the Atlanta-based company an increased presence in the upper Midwestern region of the U.S. and joining with Belgard and others under Oldcastle Building Products. “The additions of Anchor Block Co. and Anchor Wall Systems to Oldcastle’s masonry and hardscapes business will serve as a platform for continued growth throughout the Midwest,” said Tim Ortman, president of Oldcastle Architectural. “Each company brings expertise and commitment to product innovation that will ultimately benefit Oldcastle’s collective business, customers and employees well into the future.” Anchor Block Co. manufactures concrete masonry and hardscape products and is the licensed manufacturer of Anchor Wall Systems products. The products include retaining walls, pavers, edgers, architectural block, concrete masonry units and outdoor living products. The company’s primary manufacturing facility is located just outside of Minneapolis.

MNLA STAFF MEMBER EARNS CAE CREDENTIAL Congratulations to MNLA Communications Director Jon Horsman, CAE on receiving his Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential from the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) on June 24. After five years of accumulating the required hours of education and two months of intensive study, he successfully completed the CAE Exam on May 1, 2015 and now joins over 4,000 professionals worldwide who have achieved this mark of excellence. MNLA Executive Director Cassie Larson, CAE, received her credential in 2009. “Hats off to Jon on this accomplishment,” said Larson. “He has gained and demonstrated the knowledge essential to professional association management. Investing in staff development only increases MNLA’s ability to serve its members better today as well as in the future.”

MNLA .biz

september 15

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Announcing a Call for Entries MNLA Landscape Awards A program of recognition for installed landscapes. Submitting companies must be MNLA members who offer design, installation, bid/build, design/build, or other landscape specialty to their clients.

On October 1, 2015, MNLA will open its online entry portal and begin receiving entries for the 2016 landscape awards program. During the entry period you will find a link to the online entry form on the home page of www.MNLA.biz. Full entry rules will be posted on the entry form.

If you’re not familiar with this program, you may not know that...

It’s all online. The application process, judging, and viewing of winning entries — all of this is done online via software designed specifically for awards programs. You can start an entry, save your work, and return to it later as needed.

It’s a learning opportunity. All entries and the judge’s notes about them will be available during the Northern Green Expo (non-winning entries will be anonymously displayed). You get a second chance. If an entry is incomplete or incorrect, entrants will have one opportunity to amend their submission and resubmit their materials. Plus, if you’re not a winner this year, you are eligible to enter the same project in future years. There are no categories. Entrants don’t have to choose where their project fits, and entries are not judged against each other; every entry is judged solely on its own merits. Each winner receives a plaque, a ticket to the MNLA Awards Gala, a crest to display in print and for posting on their website, a link to a video of their project, and other marketing materials. The online entry portal will open on October 1, 2015; the deadline for entry is November 18, 2015.

Questions? Contact Jon Horsman at jon@mnla.biz or 651-633-4987, SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:

MNLA Landscape Awards

Why Enter?

2016

Winning an MNLA Landscape Award increases your ability to: 1. Promote the high quality of your work. If you win an award, you’ll be able to add “MNLA Award-Winning” to your marketing, plus we’ll provide you with artwork to use in your promotional pieces. 2. Build customer relationships. Your clients will feel proud that their property was deemed one of the best in the state, and it will re-confirm their choice of putting their faith in you as their landscape professional. 3. Motivate employees and improve team performance. There is a great deal of effort that goes into executing all of the details of a landscape, and winning an award validates the team’s work. 4. Build a photo library. Preparing for awards entries gets you in the habit of photographing your work (especially construction details), and you never know when you’ll capture that perfect shot that you’ll use for years to come. 5. Generate sales. Closing the deal with your prospects will be easier when they see the value and prestige they will receive from working with your award-winning firm. This year, SPACES Magazine will feature the 2016 MNLA Landscape Award winners in an editorial package in their spring edition, including a feature story on the Judges’ Choice project.

Plan to enter this year and begin reaping the benefits next year and in the years to come!

Notable Dates Oct. 1, 2015: Entry Portal Opens Nov. 18, 2015: Submission Deadline Nov. 25-Dec. 2, 2015: Entry Judging Dec. 7-11, 2015: Entry Status Notifications Jan. 13, 2016: MNLA Awards Gala

Judging Reminders • Entries are judged anonymously. Judges do not know who submitted the projects. • The size and cost of a project are not part of the criteria for judging. • In any given year, ALL entries could win awards, or NO entries could win an award. Entries are not judged against each other; rather each entry is judged against the standards of excellence. Judges must decide whether an entry, in their opinion, meets or exceeds those standards.

Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association

C O L O R

I T

G R E E N™

Tom Bergan: 800.236.4242 Troy Green: 218.230.3223

Your Plant Source for: ▪ BALLED & BURLAPPED ▪ CONTAINER GROWN ▪ BARE-ROOT ▪ SHADE TREES

▪ ORNAMENTAL TREES ▪ DECIDUOUS SHRUBS ▪ EVERGREENS ▪ LINERS

P.O. Box 185, 750 South Monroe Street, Waterloo, WI 53594

800-236-4242 ▪ Fax: 920-478-3615 ▪ www.mckaynursery.com

➾ ME MBER N EWS

COMMITTEE OPENINGS The MNLA Board of Directors forms committees to carry out the strategic direction of the organization. Below is a summary of the committees with current openings, and a summary of their mission. Are you interested in learning more about the committee’s task or time commitment involved? For more information, contact a board member, a committee chair, an MNLA staff member, or to submit a volunteer application online, visit www.MNLA.biz. Membership Committee: Current openings: 6 Chair: Rob Friend, The Mulch Store

Trade Show Committee: Current openings: 3 Chair: Dave Kemp, The Catholic Cemeteries

An outreach team which personally shares information about the value of membership, and acts as a conduit for gathering insight and ideas from members and prospective members.

Ensure the presentation of a world-class commerce and networking event at the most exhibitor-friendly green industry trade show in the country.

Communications + Technology Committee: Current openings: 7 Chair: Randy Berg, Berg’s Nursery, Landscapers/Garden Center

Networking Committee: Current openings: 8 Chair: Nick Sargent, Sargent’s Landscape Nursery, Inc.

Develop MNLA into a critical hub of vital and unique knowledge for members.

Create and support member-to-member business connections and networking to foster camaraderie and commerce.

Government Affairs Committee: Current openings: 6 Chair: Timothy Malooly, Water in Motion Protect and advance the collective interests of members through legislative and regulatory involvement.

WELCOME NEW MNLA MEMBERS! ACS Asphalt Concrete Solutions, Inc. Craig Granroth Ham Lake, MN, 763-420-7500 AJ’s Property Maintenance, Inc. Nathan Presler Watertown, MN, 612-382-0021

Manitoba Nursery Landscape Association Sharra Hinton Winnipeg, Canada, 204-504-7732 Matt Lienemann Plowing Matthew Lienemann Bemidji, MN, 763-607-6000

All Stone Solutions Brad Gerlach Hurley, WI, 651-249-4288

Miranda Flood Forest Lake, MN, 906-396-1651

CBS Trucking Clem Bayerl Winsted, MN, 612-880-7917

Strata Corporation Patrick Hynek Grand Forks, ND, 701-746-7491

Décor Tec Thomas Johnson Minneapolis, MN, 952-884-0708

The Landscape Company, Inc. Robert Nivala Hampton, MN, 612-282-7199

Fertimix Daren Klegstad Jordan, MN, 952-492-3377

Twisted Elements Skye Kopfmann-McLoughlin Minneapolis, MN, 612-305-0456

Halverson Concrete Concepts, Inc. Lisa Anderson Hudson, WI, 715-760-2277

ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS Nominations for Todd Bachman Award due November 1 Nominations are now being accepted for the annual Todd Bachman Award for Innovation in Horticultural Business. Created by the University of Minnesota, the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association and the MNLA Foundation, the award annually recognizes a young individual whose innovation in private enterprise has positively influenced horticulture and/or the green industry in the region. The award recipient will receive a plaque and will be recognized in trade publications. In addition, the MNLA Foundation will make a $1,000 cash award in the recipient’s name to his or her alma mater. Qualifications for Todd Bachman Award Owner or employee of a horticultural business in the north central region (MN, WI, IA, ND, SD). Recipient of an associate’s or bachelor’s degree or greater in horticulture, business or related field from an accredited institution of higher learning. Demonstrated innovation in business, marketing, horticultural production, floral, or landscape practices. For all details and nomination instructions, visit MNLA.biz.

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MNLA .biz

➾ MNLA S E CT I O BOARD N TITLE

NOMINATIONS FOR MNLA BOARD SUB M I T N O M I N ATI O N S FO R M N L A BO A RD N O W

As a member-driven organization, the MNLA solicits candidates for the Board of Directors. The MNLA Board Development Committee is now accepting board nominations through Thursday, October 1, 2015. Board members represent the interests of the MNLA membership and help promote the growth and success of the green industry.

2016 MNLA BOARD OF DIRECTORS REQUIREMENTS AND PRIORITIES The following criterion for participation as a board member is required in the MNLA bylaws: Eight years of MNLA business membership immediately preceding the election Current business member status; and Appropriate membership dues paid.

In addition, MNLA seeks to maintain a strong, balanced, strategicthinking board that accurately represents the varied companies found in the green industry. Skills in the following areas will also be considered for new board seats: Leadership experience Dedication to the association Government relations/advocacy Finance experience Strategic perspective Entrepreneurship Business ethics Industry experience

IF YOU HAVE ANY FURTHER QUESTIONS about

SERVING ON THE MNLA BOARD OF DIRECTORS IS VOLUNTARY, BUT REQUIRES THE FOLLOWING TIME COMMITMENT: A Board term is two years. The Board meets a minimum of four times per year — generally in March, June, September and December. Responsibilities include reading the agenda and supporting materials prior to attending. Special meetings, conference calls, electronic votes, and strategic planning sessions are sometimes convened. Board members receive no compensation for their time.

2016 MNLA ELECTION TIMELINE October 2015 — Candidates are interviewed and recommended for the ballot by the MNLA Board Development Committee. December 2015 — The Board of Directors approves the ballot presented and an online board and officer election is held. January 13, 2016 — Candidates are ratified at the MNLA Annual Meeting and announced to the membership.

SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATION TODAY If you or someone you know is interested in working with others to ensure the growth and success of the green industry, please submit your nomination online at www.MNLA.biz or via email to cassie@mnla.biz no later than Thursday, October 1, 2015.

the election process, feel free to contact MNLA Executive Director Cassie Larson at 651-633-4987. Thank you in advance for your interest and support of the green industry.

MNLA .biz

september 15

➾ NE T WORKIN G N EWS

NETWORKING NEWS Mary Dunn and new MNLA Foundation Coordinator, Megan Buchanan.

SAINT PAUL SAINTS BALLGAME

The crew from Bailey Nurseries, Inc.

It was a beautiful evening for MNLA Night at the Saints Game on Monday, July 20th. Over 100 MNLA members attended the game at new CHS Field in St. Paul. The evening included a picnic buffet and a ticket to the game, where the Saint Paul Saints beat the Winnipeg Goldeyes 12-6.

Bill Murray joined us for the pre-game picnic.

A group of MNLA members attended Horticulture Night on July 30th at the Horticulture Garden at the West Central Research and Outreach Center in Morris, MN. It was a beautiful evening to take part in the activities which included presentations, demonstrations, food booths and live music. Our thanks to Dean Engelmann, Tangletown Gardens, for leading the group and providing tasty beverages on board the bus!

HORTICULTURAL NIGHT

The Horticulture Display Garden at the University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center in Morris was recently named the Best Public Display Garden in Minnesota by viewers of WCCO News. Photo credits: Brooke Kern/Morris Sun Tribune.

MNLA .biz

Tim and Bonnie Power & Nick and Nina Sargent.

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WESTERN WI & EASTERN TWIN CITIES METRO NETWORKING GROUP DATE: Thursday,

August 13 LOCATION: Bella Vines in River Falls, WI

Top 3 Takeaways 1. It would be great to build more opportunities, relationships and connections through this group. 2. The potential to grow membership in our area. 3. Getting to know each other’s sweet spot or target business helps us help each other. The group discussed the need to learn how to help strengthen or develop the labor pool for the industry since it is so hard to recruit and find good employees who want to work hard in the green industry. They would love to see MNLA develop a mentorship program for developing small contractors, helping to guide them on how to elevate their pricing to make the entire region more competitively priced, decreasing animosity and developing the industry in our area. Grow the industry by growing professionals doing it. They discussed the fact that everyone is concerned about the wage barriers…minimum wage, high wages for unskilled employees, high wages needed to recruit good seasoned employees. Upcoming Western WI & Eastern Twin Cities Metro Networking Events: September 10 4pm–6pm Tamarack Tap Room, Woodbury

It was a great turnout for the first MNLA western WI and eastern Twin Cities networking group meeting. Thanks to Rob Drew, Marty Foote, Chris Turner, Dennis Ullom, and Ben Graf for joining group leader, Melissa Stevens. These are great minds working to better the Green industry in the St. Croix Valley and beyond.

October 8 4pm–6pm Pitchfork Brewing, Hudson, WI November 12 4pm–6pm Lift Bridge Brewing Company, Stillwater

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MNLA .biz

➾ S COOP

SHARE SCOOP! THE

EACH MONTH, the Scoop is mailed to every member company of the Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association. A portion of your annual dues covers your yearly subscription to our official publication, which is one of the mostloved benefits of MNLA membership. Because each company only receives one copy of the Scoop, it’s important to share the wealth! Make sure your employees are able to take advantage of the insights and information in this magazine by putting it in your company break-room, or directly into the hands of that employee you’d like to develop into a leader in your company.

email Gayle Anderson, gayle@mnla.biz.

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TO RECEIVE THE ONLINE SCOOP,

Want to make the Scoop accessible to everyone in your company? Every month, we publish an online issue of the Scoop, using a leading web platform for magazines. This digital issue is available to all personnel in all MNLA member companies. To utilize this member-only benefit, you simply need to send us the email addresses for whomever in your company you would like to receive the Scoop. We will then email the link directly to your employees’ inbox each month. In fact, our online issue is available a week before the hard copy of the magazine arrives. Your employees will be privy to the latest and greatest information!

Membe r Profile Out & About Membe r Social s

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MNLA FOUNDATION Improving the Environment by Investing in Research and Education

PARTNERS FUND

You are encouraged to participate in the Research & Education Partners Fund at one of the participating suppliers recognized below. Your voluntary donation of Âź of 1% (0.25%) on purchases of plants and other nursery, greenhouse and landscape products at these suppliers is used by the MNLA Foundation to grow a brighter future for the industry. On an invoice totaling $1,000 at one of these suppliers, your contribution will be only $2.50. Your individual contribution is small, but collectively these small contributions will add up to make a real difference!

Research for the Real World

Career Development & Promotion

L A N D S C A P E + M A S O N RY

Scholarships

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