Nursery & Landscape Notes Fall 2016

Fall 2016 | Vol. 50, No. 4

Publication of the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc.

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GREEN& GROW N’

January 16 – 20 Greensboro, NC

Five Educational Tracks Built For Your Entire Team – Mix & Match For Maximum CEUs Tech Tools Networking Events Options For Exhibitors And Sponsors

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YOU’RE KNOWN BY THE

Fall 2016 | Vol. 50, No. 4

COMPANY YOU KEEP.

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FEATURED PRODUCT

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COMMENTARY President’s Message

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NCNLA Executive Vice President’s Message

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NCNLA NEWS

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Member Spotlight: Jacob Mustin, Liberty Nursery

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Vendor Spotlight: Green Resource

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Future Leaders Tapped for NCNLA Scholarships

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NCNLA Hires Two to Target Growth

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New Online Marketing Tools for NCNLA Members

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Golf Tournament Helps Fund Industry Research

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New NC Plant Pros!

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AROUND OUR INDUSTRY Legislative Update

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Industry News

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Best Practices: Applying the Principles of Self Leadership – Part II

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RESEARCH UPDATE

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NCNLA Aims High with Added Options at G&G 17

Housing Outlook 2016

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Part 3: NC Housing Outlook 2016

Big Picture: Local Views

C O M M I T T E D T O T H E CA R O L I N A S

Looking Outside the Box for Solutions to Boxwood Blight

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WILSON • GREENSBORO • ABERDEEN • WILMINGTON • LINWOOD • KINSTON

Rain Gardens: The “Natural” Way to Remove Storm Water Pollution

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New Members

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Calendar of Events

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Advertiser’s Index

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Green & Growin’ 17

Asheville • Greensboro/Winston-Salem • Wilmington

2016 OUTLOOK

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 3

Published by North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc. 968 Trinity Road, Raleigh, NC 27607

A Soil Amendment

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NCNLA Staff Corey Connors Executive Vice President Cody Lewis Director of Finance & Administration Kathryn Stansbury Director of Business Development Stephanie Schaefer Exhibit, Sponsorship, & Advertising Sales Kaley Jacobs Manager of Marketing & Communications Judi Neff Manager of Member Services Nursery & Landscape Notes is published quarterly by the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc. especially for nursery production, nursery research, interior and exterior maintenance and design build contractors in the landscape industry. The publication is distributed to approximately 1200 horticulture producers, landscape professionals and industry suppliers.

NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES is provided as a member service.

2016 NCNLA Board of Directors Brad Rollins, President Fairview Garden Center Raleigh, NC

Hugh Crump Greenline Designs Charlotte, NC

Chad Gragg, Vice President/Secretary/ Treasurer Robert M. Gragg & Sons Lenoir, NC

Lynn McCleneghen Parker Landscape Services Cary, NC

Kirk Davis, Past President Patterson’s Nursery East Charlotte, NC

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C O M M I T T E D T O T H E CA R O L I N A S WILSON • GREENSBORO • ABERDEEN • WILMINGTON • LINWOOD • KINSTON ©2016 Cardinal Turf & Ornamental. A division of Triangle Chemical Company. No warranty or representation is made, expressed or implied, concerning the results to be obtained from the use of this product if not used in accordance with directions or established safe practices. For product information, please visit www.coolterra.com. Always read and follow label directions.

Chris Mitchell Ewing Irrigation and Landscape Supply Garner, NC Educational Advisors

Conrad Hayter New Garden Landscaping & Nursery Greensboro, NC

Justin Snyder Alamance Community College Graham, NC

Jamie Thomas Swift Creek Nursery Clayton, NC

Dr. John Dole NC State University Raleigh, NC

Shanon Spivey Spivey's Nursery, Inc. Kernersville, NC

Advertising

For Advertising rates and content submission, contact Stephanie Schaefer for a Marketing Opportunities Kit. 919-609-0803 The inclusion of products or brand names in this publication is not an endorsement by the editor or the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association.

Purpose Statement

NCNLA's purpose is to be a flexible, knowledgeable, responsive, environmentally-conscious organization providing the nursery and landscape industries with leadership, technological and business advancement opportunities, and information services.

Goal Statement

NCNLA's ultimate goal is to benefit its members’ economic, professional and personal growth.

Connect to NCNLA facebook.com/NCNurseryandLandscapeAssociation/ twitter.com/ncnlacom ncnla.com | BuyNCPlants.com GreenandGrowin.com | NCGreenprints.com

NCNLA PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Onward!

O

h how happy I am that summer is over and fall is upon us! It seemed as though August invited itself right on into the last weeks of September and just would not let go. October is my favorite month here in North Carolina. The temperatures, humidity levels, bright blue skies and shades of fall in our trees combine to make some absolutely beautiful days.

During the last week of July, NCNLA held the first ever Volunteer Leadership Summit. NCNLA members, the Board of Directors, staff and educational advisors convened in Winston-Salem to test drive this inaugural event.

The first afternoon was spent with the group broken out into three advisory councils: Grower Council, Landscape Council and Retail/Allied Council. The councils served as a forum for key industry segments within the membership to consider issues, needs and potential opportunities within the context of current association programs. The following day was spent in NCNLA Program Committee meetings.

That was it, simply a day and a half in which each attendee participated in a segment advisory council and two committee meetings. So, what did we get in return? During each meeting, staff feverishly took notes, jotting down every idea, hot button topic and recurring theme. After about a week compiling and analyzing data, we ended up with more than 50 pages of tremendous ideas and recommendations.

Some of this information has already been incorporated into the FY2017 budget. Much more will be used during the Board’s long-range planning meeting in February.

The takeaway here is that, over the course of 36 hours, the Board of Directors was able to obtain a much broader perspective of the membership. Now we can take what we learned and move forward — improving everything that we do. To those of you who attended, thank you for your time. I am looking forward to seeing you next year at a location yet to be determined.

I cannot believe that another year has nearly passed us by. The first edition of Nursery & Landscape Notes of 2016 was the 50th anniversary edition. We are celebrating another anniversary this year: NCNLA is now ten years old. Happy Anniversary folks!

It has been an absolute honor to serve as President for this association. The experience has been educational, humbling, sometimes frustrating yet always rewarding. I would like to thank the Board of Directors and the Staff for all of their hard work this past year.

There are a few key people in the industry that I pestered quite a bit looking for advice at times. Thank you all for your help.

The biggest thanks of all go to the membership. Thank you all for allowing me the privilege to serve as your President.

I look forward to seeing you all at Green & Growin’ 17 in January!

©2016 NCNLA.

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 5

NCNLA EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

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Do What You Say You’ll Do Are we serving the membership by fulfilling our stated mission?

What do we need to do to better support our members’ livelihoods?

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PERFORMANCE IN A

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I stare up at the ceiling on many a night wrestling with how NCNLA can best answer those questions. As noted biochemist Isaac Asimov once wrote: “It is change, continuing change, inevitable change, that is the dominant factor in society today. No sensible decision can be made any longer without taking into account not only the world as it is, but the world as it will be.”

Though Asimov penned that in 1978, the premise remains relevant today. Asimov’s notion spells out a tremendous challenge for trade organizations of every ilk, across every industry and in every corner of our state and country.

While honoring long-standing traditions and organizational culture, how can volunteer leaders ensure that an association has eyes on both the present and future needs of its members so that it may continue to serve effectively for generations?

“How can volunteer leaders

Discoveries

has eyes on both the

When the NCNLA Board of Directors gathered at the JC Raulston Arboretum in February 2015 to conduct its annual Long-Range Planning session, it did so primarily informed by anecdotes truths regarding the relative health of NCNLA and its constituent membership. The Board requested data to further evaluate these truths. In so doing, they discovered that:

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There was a universe of more than 5,000 green industry businesses in the state of North Carolina eligible for NCNLA membership. Yet, only one-in-eight NC industry companies were active members of NCNLA at that time;

NCNLA’s program and membership revenue had declined more than 25% from its first year of existence in 2006;

Nearly 70% of the organization’s revenue was derived from its trade shows, a reliance 10-20% greater than peer green industry organizations in other states across the country;

Eleven of the organization’s 17 budget lines in FY2014 had variances of greater than 10%, with six of those lines varying by more than one-third of projected revenues and expenses.

CY

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GROUP OF ITS OWN

ensure that an association present and future needs of its members?”

Though far from hopeless, feedback from industry leaders surveyed and the data compiled for this analysis painted a picture more grim than first thought. The resources necessary to benefit our members’ economic, professional and personal growth were not aligned.

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Twenty volunteer leaders joined the NCNLA Board and educational advisors for the organization’s first Volunteer Leadership Summit. Together they drilled down to the core of the association’s programs — generating 56 pages of insight and opportunities.

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As reported in this space in the April 2015 edition of Nursery & Landscape Notes, the NCNLA Board of Directors spent those two days in February developing a strategic plan for FY2015-FY2016. As FY2016 has come to a close, we can revisit those strategic objectives to see how we’ve fared over these last 20 months.

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Goal 1: Survey members and non-members to measure membership/program perception.

With the assistance of a $177,000 Specialty Crop Block Grant awarded by NCDA&CS in 2015 — the largest such award in the organization’s history — NCNLA has secured the services of a third-party association research firm to conduct a comprehensive member/ non-member survey. It will begin in late October and run through the first week of December. The results of this “environmental analysis” will become one of the tools that will inform the Board’s Long-Range Planning session in February 2017.

the country’s fifth largest nursery and floriculture state is establishing its presence beyond our borders to share our members’ quality and value proposition.

In July 2016,

2. “Improve NCNLA’s Financial Stability”

leaders joined the

Purpose: To improve the financial stability of the organization and create a 5% net profit for FY2016.

Accomplish the following by Sept. 30:

NCNLA Board and

Goal 1: Implement a realigned budget and chart of accounts to allow for better financial management and review.

Revamping NCNLA’s budget and chart of accounts was as time-consuming and tedious as it sounds. But months of volunteer and staff work resulted in a format that gave the NCNLA Board of Directors opportunities to be more proactive in responding to member needs while reducing or eliminating organizational liabilities that had been accruing on the balance sheet for years.

In a six-month period, achieved a return on reserve investments that was five times the previous year’s total interest income while maintaining a conservative investment position;

How did the Summit itself go? Please feel free to ask the attendees themselves, but I’ll share one anecdote. In one committee meeting, participants were asked what their company valued most about NCNLA’s programs and services. The answer that stood out to me most was “this week, this Volunteer Leadership Summit.”

Created an operating reserve that permits NCNLA to conduct over $293,000 in activities associated with cost-reimbursable grants for the next year and a half without touching the organization’s primary operating account, and;

Established the NCNLA Scholarship Endowment Fund, anchored by the Larry Edwards Memorial Scholarship Fund, which will allow NCNLA to award a minimum of $5,000 in scholarship awards to horticulture and landscape students in North Carolina in perpetuity.

In late November, NCNLA will head north with that message, exhibiting for the first time at the New England GROWS show in Boston, MA. Though there’s more to do in this area, the organization representing

educational advisors for the organization’s first ever Volunteer Leadership Summit in Winston-Salem, NC.

Goal 2: Implement a budget process that will result in a more strategic deployment of resources.

NCNLA’s Finance Committee has now gone through two cycles of a months-long process to develop the organization’s budget for both FY2016 and FY2017. In addition to a successful net result in FY2016 (more on that in a minute), the Finance Committee developed the organization’s first Reserve & Investment Policy, which:

Goal 2: Increase member participation on volunteer committees, improving member engagement.

In July 2016, twenty volunteer leaders joined the NCNLA Board and educational advisors for the organization’s first ever Volunteer Leadership Summit in Winston-Salem, NC. Over a day-and-a-half, participants drilled down into the core of NCNLA’s programs and services to offer perspective on how to better serve our membership. The result was an astonishing (56 pages, in print) amount of constructive feedback that was put to use by the Board in constructing the FY2017 budget, and will continue to be used by the Board in February.

Goal 3: Increase NCNLA’s presence at non-NCNLA industry-related events.

While maintaining its on-going presence at industry events around the state and region, over the course of the past year NCNLA has expanded its visibility at events across the country. Most notably, NCNLA carried the value propositions of both Green & Growin’ and the new BuyNCPlants.com to Columbus, OH in July when it exhibited at AmericanHort’s Cultivate trade show.

There, thousands of attendees from all 50 states and 22 countries learned more about the value of North Carolina grown plants and the best place to source them.

20 volunteer

Goal 3: Reduce NCNLA’s reliance on grant revenue to support existing operational functions.

In addition to “Grants” getting its own separate place in NCNLA’s budget and a mechanism to fund such activities that will not create a cash crunch for ongoing operations, exactly 0% of funding from currently awarded grants and potential future grants will be used to offset existing operational functions of the organization. One hundred percent of those funds will be used to expand resources to further develop programs and services that will allow NCNLA to fulfill its mission.

The Metric: As for the 5% net goal, NCNLA fell short.

As of press time (one week before close of FY16 and FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 9

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four weeks before the annual audit), NCNLA projects to have revenue in excess of expenses of 4.65% for Fiscal Year 2016.

Based on recommendations made by program committees at July’s Volunteer Leadership Summit, the Board has designated those proceeds to create new funds that will support research, new scholarships, advocacy efforts and the development of new plant varieties annually. I look forward to sharing more details with you about each of these endeavors during the Annual Meeting in January.

3. “Create Value to Better Enable Member Development and Retention” Purpose: To enhance the actual value of association membership and enable member development and retention, resulting in a net membership increase of 10% from FY2015. Accomplish the following by Sept. 30: Goal 1: Evaluate and implement a meaningful affinity program.

In November 2015, the NCNLA Board established the organization’s first Affinity Program Partnerships policy.

What was clear from conversations at the Volunteer Leadership Summit was that this program would need to be more than discounts on hats and shirts. This has become a longer-term goal, as NCNLA seeks to utilize its future affinity program to advantage member companies over their competitors in the marketplace.

However, the goal of any association affinity program that matters is to add intrinsic value to membership.

Though not a direct-revenue generating enterprise for NCNLA, the added value of providing marketing opportunities (through the new BuyNCPlants.com for wholesalers and suppliers, and our new, consumer-facing Greenprints website for retailers and landscapers) as part of an NCNLA member’s suite of benefits is a solid initial foray into enhancing the organization’s value proposition. To be clear, those new resources are free for members to use as they see fit.

Goal 2: Use survey information to create more relevant and diverse educational opportunities.

The advent of continuing education requirements for the new Landscape Contractors License, coupled with enhanced targeted marketing for last year’s Green & Growin’ educational conference, led to record attendance. NCNLA was able to survey attendees to get their feedback, permitting the Board to consider enhancements to Education beginning in 2017. A redesigned schedule, content development based primarily on attendee feedback and new networking opportunities were the result. When you get a minute, check out the G&G preview story (page 20-26) or visit GreenandGrowin.com to see what’s new for this year.

10 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

Creating new educational opportunities was not limited to the association’s flagship event. In April, NCNLA hosted a first-of-its-kind webinar with Ken Martin of Stancil & Company to review changes to the state’s Sales & Use Tax laws. In the middle of the busiest spring in years, more than 100 companies were represented on the call, getting the critical information they needed to comply with the new law. Ken will be at Green & Growin’ in January to outline the most recent changes to the law as a result of the General Assembly’s passage of its budget — changes that are in large part beneficial to the green industry.

Goal 3: Further develop NCNLA’s current certification programs to include specialty certifications by industry segment with continuing education requirements.

This conversation was at the very heart of the Certification Committee’s discussion during the 2016 Volunteer Leadership Summit. The feedback received by the Board is considerable, and the further development of NCNLA’s current certification programs will be a substantial undertaking for the organization over the next few years. The Committee’s recommendations — to focus on technical competency, while at the same time fully promoting the value of professional accreditations to both the industry and the end consumer — has been taken to heart by the Board as it begins to develop a path forward in this program area.

Further development of NCNLA’s current certification programs will be a substantial undertaking for the organization over the next few years.

The Metric: As NCNLA continues to implement a new member database, cleaning up records from its 20-year-old offline system, the number of member businesses joining NCNLA is at this point an applesto-oranges comparison. But one metric that remains universal, membership revenue, projects FY2016 dues growth of 16.7% from FY2015.

The 2015 Board of Directors established “stretch” goals for NCNLA. They set a high bar by which to measure organizational progress towards meeting its mission and providing value to members. While not every one of the goals and objectives was fully realized, what has transpired over the last two years can be characterized as significant progress.

Equipped with new data points and sources of information, with realigned resources and the organization having some wind at its back, the 2017 NCNLA Board of Directors will be charged with continuing to make progress in developing the programs and services that will benefit our industry. They will gather in February 2017 during their Long-Range Planning Session to develop goals and objectives for the coming years.

They’ll put those goals down on paper for every member to see.

Like the 2015 and 2016 Boards before them, let’s all hope that they deliver the goods and do what they said they’d do.

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 11

NCNLA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Five Minutes with Jacob Mustin, Liberty Nursery

The Liberty Nursery team. — The Liberty Nursery team (left to right): Plant Upkeep Omar Rubio; General Manager Jacob Mustin; Nursery Supervisor Roberto Ocampo; and Groundskeeper Roman Rubio

What led you to a career in the green industry and to form Liberty Nursery?

Liberty Nursery LLC Liberty, NC Owner Jacob Mustin Years in Business 3 Employees 4 Top Team Omar Rubio – Plant Upkeep Jacob Mustin – General Manager Roberto Ocampo – Nursery Supervisor Roman Rubio – Groundskeeper

I was raised around horticulture and gardening. My father always said, “If you don’t help in the garden, you don’t get to eat the crops!” He has a green thumb, and I enjoyed getting my hands dirty helping him, although he might say I never helped him enough!

Those roots helped me establish my first job at a local garden center, where I spent about three years in sales.

That’s when I realized how much fun the green industry can be and how much I enjoyed participating in it. I discovered that people who are working with plants and flowers are predisposed to be happy! When the owner approached me three years ago with the offer to try and get this nursery off the ground, I couldn’t help but get excited and jumped on board.

What are your main responsibilities at Liberty?

As the manager, I handle materials purchasing, facility maintenance, sales and marketing and direct the team’s day-to-day operations. There’s no such thing as a “typical” day, though. Sometimes I am buried up to my knees in an irrigation box trying to fix a bad valve or broken wire. Usually you’ll find me running to the hardware store for supplies or scheduling delivery of a pallet of fertilizer. I maintain our website, design marketing materials and handle social media. I also try to spend

12 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

time every week walking through the nursery material to make sure all is well. It’s really just all the little things — making sure everything's running smoothly and my guys have everything they need to get the job done.

Top: Jacob’s wife, Bethany, helping out at Green & Growin’ 2016. Bottom: Liberty’s main office.

Liberty Nursery donated much of the plant material for the Carolina Field of Honor at Triad Park.

What’s most rewarding about your career?

What do you feel are some of the best benefits of being a member of NCNLA?

We are a wholesale tree and shrub nursery. All of our material is container grown so that it can be planted virtually year-round, and all of our trees are drip irrigated and hand pruned. We are currently focused mainly on shade and ornamental trees; maples, arborvitaes, oaks, magnolias, etc.

It’s really fascinating to be able to return to the planting location of our material and see how it is growing there.

Knowing that the plants that you raised with your own hands are happily growing all over the state and the country is a really neat thing. On that note, it is also fantastic to be a part of an industry that is almost entirely built around businesses that are making our world a more beautiful place to live. Parks, cities, highways and homes are all a little nicer thanks to the good work of the great folks in the green industry. It’s great to be a small part of that larger picture.

Why do your customers love you?

What kinds of things keep you up at night?

What is Liberty Nursery best known for?

I think our customers see two distinct advantages in having us work alongside them. First of all, we are very personalized. They always know who they’ll be talking to, because I take all customer phone calls and emails personally. Some of the older, larger nurseries in the industry may be busy with multiple sales folks and thousands of customers. Liberty puts priority on the individual. I know your name and make the time to work with you according to your schedule.

Secondly, I believe the quality and value of our material is second to none. If one of our customers can find the same quality material elsewhere for less, all they have to do is mention it. We aren’t scared to work with you, and we are proud of that!

Growing plant material can be very nerve wracking at times. There is no perfect recipe to a perfect plant. It takes walking daily alongside the plants as they grow and learning what they need, which at times can be very specific. Everything from keeping a keen eye on the weather to taking preventative measures for pest control is necessary to keep things running smoothly, but inevitably, something will go wrong. One of the most disheartening things for me is arriving at the nursery in the morning and seeing that one of our irrigation zones isn’t working properly or that some new pest has found its home among our material and knowing that the plants may suffer.

The organized events are spectacular. I’ve been to trade shows all across the east, and Green & Growin’ is a stellar example of how it should be done. Everything runs smoothly, and the number of people who are able to shake hands and create partnerships is amazing. The literature and emails keep me up to date with what’s happening in the industry. All of the NCNLA resources have been very helpful.

“Liberty puts priority on the individual.

I know your name and make the time to work with you according to your schedule.”

— Jacob Mustin

What advice would you give to someone trying to start a business or begin a career in North Carolina’s green industry?

I’m new to the industry, and networking has been a critical part of finding a foothold. So that’s my greatest piece of advice: Learn to network properly. Nearly everyone I talk to has a wealth of knowledge. Listening to their advice has been better than anything I could have learned in school. Talk to everyone — customers, landscapers, nursery managers, suppliers — and never stop! Visit other businesses and see how they do things. Listen and learn. No one has all the answers, but together, they can be pretty darn close!

Get in touch 336.685.9854 | info@libertynursery.com | www.libertynursery.com |  facebook.com/libertynursery FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 13

NCNLA VENDOR SPOTLIGHT

MEMBER NEWS

Green Resource

Future Leaders Tapped for NCNLA Scholarships

T

hree outstanding students are headed back to school this fall with financial assistance from the NCNLA Horticulture Scholarship program. “These are all highly-motivated and deserving individuals who have demonstrated great promise for the future of the industry,” said NCNLA president Brad Rollins of Fairview Garden Center in Raleigh.

Any full-time student enrolled in a two or four-year horticulture program may apply for a scholarship. All of this year’s winners are enrolled at NC State University.

Green Resource core values: offering exceptional customer service; supporting a professional, well-educated team; and giving back to local communities.

NCNLA Key Partner Green Resource, Ltd. Founded 1994 Corporate Office Colfax, NC Green-Resource.com Top Team Jonathan Annas, Principal Todd Mcpeak, Principal Ben Holcomb, Chief Financial Officer Robert G. Herring, Director, Sales & Marketing Company Size 72 Employees NC Distribution Centers Charlotte Colfax Garner Shallotte Winston-Salem

Green Resource began in 1994 as a small agronomic business, Nivek, Inc., in Greensboro, NC. Over the past 12 years it has become one of the largest regional suppliers in the Southeast, operating five distribution centers and serving customers throughout North and South Carolina.

Products

Past, Present, Future

Golf courses, lawn care operators, grounds maintenance companies, nurseries, retail lawn and garden centers, greenhouses and prominent landscaping firms throughout the Southeast.

2004: Seasoned seed industry veterans Jonathan Annas and Todd McPeak purchase a minority interest in Nivek, Inc. The partners, who met while working for Budd Seed Company, a leading provider of high-quality seed brands, begin to expand their market.

2005: The increased sales effort generates enough revenue for Annas and McPeak to fulfill the lifelong dream of owning their own company. They purchase the remaining interest in Nivek and change the company’s name to Green Resource to better reflect the nature of the business.

2006: Green Resource purchases ATECH Products, Inc., in Shallotte, NC. The facility is strategically located between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach.

2008: Green Resource opens a 29,000 square foot distribution center in Garner, NC. 2009: The Company acquires the assets of GroGreen Solutions, LLC, in Charlotte, NC. 2012: Green Resource opens a 20,850 square foot distribution center in Winston-Salem, NC.

Green Resource is a full-service distributor of fertilizers, chemicals, seeds and erosion control products — including more than 50 major brands and nearly 3000 SKUs.

Key Customers

Business Philosophy “Committed to Service Beyond Expectations” is our motto. Our core mission is to be the supplier of choice for customers within the Green and Erosion Control Industries. We make that happen through our commitment to

a well-trained, professional staff,

high quality products and services, and

superior customer service.

Denton’s teachers include key industry professionals who report that he is an excellent student with a strong desire for knowledge and learning. One long-time industry member who hired Denton called him a model employee — someone who is smart, industrious, takes instructions well and executes them efficiently.

He has earned several other scholarships, including the Woodland Garden Club scholarship and the NC Sweet Potato Commission scholarship. When not in class, he stays busy soaking up more industry knowledge through the Horticulture Club, NCSU’s National Collegiate Landscape Competition team and as an intern at Plant Delights.

NCNLA Supporter

Having just completed his sophomore year, Denton remains interested in plant breeding and is moving forward with a major in horticulture. He is considering the possibility of pursuing a graduate degree before seeking employment as an ornamental plant breeder.

Over the years, Green Resource has enjoyed a strong relationship with NCNLA and been a key sponsor of the Green & Growin’ Show.

Evan Garner developed a passion for plants while taking horticulture classes at Apex High School and working at the Garden Supply Company.

“Our goal is to support the organization so that NCNLA members will continue to prosper in their businesses and enhance our environment,” said Todd McPeak.

A former employer cites Garner’s ability to multi-task, lead his peers, interact with a wide variety of people and get his job done — all while remaining consistently pleasant. Valued for his strong work ethic and eagerness to learn, Garner is also spoken of highly as being earnest, diligent, dependable and mature. He excels at accomplishing any challenge set before him.

Get in Touch: 800.225.8061 | 336.855.6363 | info@green-resource.com | www.green-resource.com 14 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

David Denton’s fascination with horticulture began at the age of 14 — when he built a small hobby greenhouse and started crossbreeding vegetable seedlings.

The natural variation that each generation of seedling brought sparked his interest in plant breeding. By the time he entered the horticulture department at NC State as a freshman, Denton already had started and established several seed strains. His instructors quickly gave him greenhouse space to conduct evaluations.

David Denton arrived at NC State with several seed strains established and is working toward a career breeding ornamentals.

Evan Garner wants to run his own nursery or garden center someday.

Now a freshman at NC State University, Garner plans to major in Horticulture Science. His extracurricular activities include the FFA and National Honor Society.

Throughout college, Garner intends to build relationships with faculty and local industry leaders so he can find out where he fits in the industry. Ultimately, his goal is to own a garden center or nursery.

Daniel Lewis was interested in the field of agriculture throughout all of high school, but his passion for ornamentals and horticulture has grown since attending the Agriculture Institute. The NC State University junior feeds his craving for industry knowledge and experience through the classroom and a part-time campus job doing landscape maintenance around NC State Livestock Units.

“Seeing a project from start to finish is truly a unique process and one I thoroughly enjoy. I hope to further my knowledge in landscaping at NC State, as well as absorb all the information I can from true professionals in the field,” he said.

Teachers and employers praise Lewis as hardworking, meticulous and dedicated to professionalism. He approaches coursework with a high level of preparation and is a model student and employee who motivates and inspires others. He has won numerous scholarships.

Double majors in Horticulture Science Management and Agribusiness Management keep Daniel Lewis busy.

The NCNLA Horticulture Scholarship program reflects the association’s longstanding commitment to recognizing and rewarding future industry leaders around the state. Recipients are determined through a competitive application process administered by the NCNLA Board of Directors. Applicants are evaluated by numerous factors including scholastic aptitude and industry potential. Work experience within the industry, leadership ability and financial need are also considered when determining scholarship winners. For more information please visit ncnla.com/ncnlascholarships.

Lewis is pursuing a double major in Horticulture Science Management and Agribusiness Management.

He also is involved in many extracurricular activities in ornamental horticulture and landscaping.

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 15

MEMBER NEWS

NCNLA NEWS

NCNLA Hires Two to Target Growth

New Online Marketing Tools for NCNLA Members

The North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association is gearing up for growth with the addition of two talented individuals to its professional team.

Two new websites designed to help NCNLA members market the value of their products and services launched this October. The first aims to engage and educate consumers. The second makes it simpler for wholesale buyers to source NC plants. Both the sites and some related marketing efforts have been funded through a NCDA Specialty Crop Block Grant.

Kathryn Stansbury has joined NCNLA as Director of Business Development. She will be responsible for the development and growth of both organizational revenue and member profitability.

Kathryn Stansbury

The Director of Business Development is a new position strategically aligned with the NCNLA’s core revenue streams including trade shows, non-dues partnerships and membership. Stansbury also will be responsible for creating and implementing high-value supply chain development opportunities for NCNLA member companies.

“I am excited to join the NCNLA team and contribute to the growth and development of an organization committed to members and an industry making a huge impact on the North Carolina landscape and economy,” Stansbury said.

Stephanie Schaefer

A native of Florence, SC, and a graduate of the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, Stansbury joins NCNLA after more than ten years at the North Carolina Home Builders Association (NCHBA), a nonprofit trade association with more than 13,000 member firms.

After beginning her NCHBA tenure as Manager of Political Operations for one of the largest political action committees in the state, Stansbury served as NCHBA’s Director of Membership Services for the last nine years.

In that position, she supported the operations of 60 local building associations across North Carolina, coordinated NCHBA’s regional awards program and assisted with the planning, coordination and execution of the 21st Century Building Expo and Conference.

“The future of NCNLA’s member value proposition could not be placed in better hands,” said NCNLA Executive Vice President Corey Connors. “As we continue to seek ways to provide industry programs and services that foster business growth, Kathryn’s considerable experience, abilities and professionalism will be key to ensuring that NCNLA delivers what current and prospective members want.”

Kathryn can be reached at kstansbury@ncnla.com, or by phone at (919) 816-9119.

Stephanie Schaefer, the independent green industry sales pro who successfully partnered with NCNLA on exhibit sales for Green & Growin’ 16, returns with expanded responsibilities for 2016 – 2017. In addition to booth space sales, Schaefer now is promoting sponsorships and other visibility opportunities at Green & Growin’ 17. She also manages advertising sales across NCNLA’s print and electronic media platforms.

Schaefer brings considerable industry experience to NCNLA, having previously served as an independent sales contractor for the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association, the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association and the Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association.

“Simply put, Stephanie ‘gets’ our members,” said NCNLA Executive Vice President Corey Connors. “Her track record of success speaks to her unique ability to develop relationships that help green industry businesses achieve their objectives.”

Stephanie can be reached at sschaefer@ncnla.com, or by phone at (919) 609-0803.

Reminder: NCNLA Member Dues Are Partially Tax-Deductible Contributions or gifts to NCNLA are not tax deductible as charitable contributions. However, they may be tax deductible as ordinary business expenses. A portion of your dues is not deductible as an ordinary business expense to the extent that NCNLA engages in lobbying. The estimated non-deductible portion of your dues assessment is 20%.

BuyNCPlants.com Over the last few years, both buyers and listers using NCNLA’s annual printed Buyers Guide and plant search website have been sending a clear message: It was time for a change. Wholesale buyers needed an improved system for obtaining information on NC nurseries — including available inventories and greater ordering utility.

Welcome to the new BuyNCPlans.com.

NCNLA has partnered with PlantAnt — the industry’s most powerful and innovative plant search engine — to make listing products and services easier and more user friendly. Among the new website’s useful features are the ability to update inventory, upload pictures and list product pricing. Green & Growin’ Exhibitors and Featured Vendors can also be highlighted.

Beginning in 2017, NCNLA members will be able to list an unlimited number of products and supplies for FREE. Non-members will incur a nominal service fee per listing.

For those who want a hard copy of the guide, a Quarterly Report will be emailed to landscape and retail members of NCNLA and available for download on NCNLA.com.

NCGreenPrints.com NCNLA’s new consumer website is an update to TarheelGardening.com. It’s purpose is to engage both “next generation” young consumers and traditional audiences by connecting the quality of life, economic and environmental benefits that come from a well designed/maintained landscape using NC nursery crops. In addition to increasing the perceived value of NC trees and landscape plants, the site emphasizes the importance of hiring certified professionals and promotes green industry businesses across North Carolina.

NC GreenPrints.com is designed to provide next generation consumers with a clear, straightforward and easy way to learn more about NC nursery crops — and to connect with NCNLA’s community of members as the people who can provide those products and services. It offers all the knowledge, tools, and product information consumers need on an accessible digital platform.

NCNLA will be marketing the site through online ads, videos and social media.

16 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 17

MEMBER NEWS

Golf Tournament Helps Fund Industry Research NCNLA held its 2016 Robert Cagle Golf Tournament on Friday, August 26 at the Lochmere Golf Club in Cary, NC. About 30 participants enjoyed a round of golf followed by a casual dinner with industry friends — and in the process raised more than $3,000 to go towards NCNLA awarding the newly created Robert Cagle Memorial Scholarships for students that have achieved the Certified Young Plant Professional accreditation, which will be available in 2017.

The top winning teams this year were: NCNLA President Brad Rollins gets the lay of the land before a putt.

MANTS

®

JANUARY 11-13, 2017 BALTIMORE CONVENTION CENTER

For 47 years now, it has been all business at MANTS. That’s why over 11,000 attendees, representing over 3,600 buying companies and nearly 1,000 exhibiting companies, attended our most recent show. But when the work day is over, and it’s time to unwind and relax, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor offers an incomparable array of fine restaurants and attractions.

MANTS means business. In fact, some people say we were inspired.

18 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

On-line Registration is available 24/7 beginning October 1.

@mantsbaltimore #mants

2nd Place - Cardinal Turf & Ornamental Terry Kallam, Paul Jett, Jacob Kallam and Noah Kallam

3rd Place - Team 9 Corey Connors, Ben Richards and Marcus Vandevliet

4th Place - Greenthumb Jimmy Anderson, Kevin Cagle, Buddy Ritchie and Jeremy Shaver

Closest to Pin 7 Jeff Adams

Closest to Pin 17 Terry Kallam

Longest Putt 18 James White

Longest Drive David Blalock

Bland Landscaping Co.

Cardinal Turf & Ornamental

Maple Ridge Tree Farms

SiteOne Landscape Supply

Nelson Nursery

Southern Garden, Inc.

Dowds Tree Farm

Spivey’s Nursery

Evergreen Partners

New Garden Landscaping & Nursery

TH Blue

Fairview Garden Center

New Garden Select

Turtle Creek Nursery

Patterson’s Nursery

Worthington Farms

Fanntum Nursery Supply

Piedmont Carolina Nursery

Gilmore Plant & Bulb Co.

Piney Mountain Trees

Sampson Nursery

SiteLight ld, Inc.

www.mants.com

P.O. Box 818 Brooklandville, MD 21022 410-296-6959 800-431-0066 fax 410-296-8288

1st Place - Bland Landscaping Matt Bland, Patrick Freeman, Jacob Ritchie and Joe Ritchie

Many thanks to this year’s tournament sponsors:

The Masterpiece of Trade Shows ™

There are plenty of trade shows, but there’s only one MANTS. It’s the show where buyers know that they can find all the products their business needs. And sellers can count on meeting plenty of customers eager for their wares.

Godley’s Garden Center

Greenscape, Inc.

Greenthumb Nursery

Hussey Oil Company

Jacobs Creek Stone

Beggining in 2017, NCNLA's Robert Cagle Golf Tournament will benefit a new Scholarship Program for CYPPs.

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 19

SCHI AD 2017.pdf

1

9/16/16

12:30 PM

SCHI 2017

MEMBER NEWS: CPP/CYPP

South Carolina Horticulture Industry

TRADE SHOW & SEMINARS

Myrtle Beach Convention Center, Myrtle Beach, SC

New NC Plant Pros!

REGISTER NOW AT WWW.SCNLA.COM

L WHERE AL S THE PIECE COME !

TOGETHER

250+ Booth Trade Show

The live plant identification portion of the CPP exam tests each candidate’s ability to recognize a wide variety of plant material.

C

M

Y

Results from the recent CPP Test in Asheville, NC

CM

On a hot and sunny day among North Carolina's western mountains, in the middle of September, the state’s green industry gained 28 new Certified Plant Professionals (CPP). The exam, drawing in 56 applicants, took place on September 15, 2016 at the NC Arboretum in Asheville, NC.

MY

CY

SC, NC, GA Pesticide Applicators' Re-Certification Credits

CMY

K

2016 Certified Plant Professionals:

20 + Seminars outh ou ut th th S outh aro ar roli rol olin o ol lina in na a C arolina urs urser ur u rser rsery rs r se s er ry y& N ursery an a nds ds sc ca c ap a pe p e L andscape ss so oc o ciia cia c at a tio t ti io io on n A ssociation

FEBRUARY 1-3, 2017 SCHI 2017 NCNLA 7.25 x 9.25.indd 1

20 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

Edward Younglove L.A. Reynolds

Thomas Kozak Biltmore Estates

Garrett Stockdale New Garden Landscaping & Nursery

Ayla Macko The NC Arboretum

James Taylor Snow Creek Landscaping LLC.

Joseph Tallent BB Barns, Inc.

Hannah Harvey The NC Arboretum

What’s on the test?

There are two parts to the CPP exam, a written test and live plant identification. The written portion consists of 100 true/false questions designed to determine whether candidates have the knowledge and skill needed to work in a nursery or landscape operation. In the Plant I.D. segment candidates are asked to correctly identify 125 live plants. The NC Landscape Contractors Licensing Board requires the Plant I.D. test.

Timothy Gholston The NC Arboretum

Sarah Coury The NC Arboretum

Jeanine Gauen The Garden Patch

Zoe Siegler Gardens by Mardi

Jeffery Judson BB Barns, Inc.

Hannah Bowers Wild by Design LLC.

Shane Phillips Gardens For Living

Amy Davis Brothers Ross

Brendan McPeak BB Barns

Christopher Rodriguez Sierra Nevada

Joseph Smith Reems Creek Nursery

Emily Gregory 35º North Landscape

Patrice German BB Barns, Inc.

Jonathan Stevenson The NC Arboretum

Lauri Newman-Waters Farm Girl

Oct. 20

Greenville

John Nelson Givens Estates

Anna Goodenaugh BB Barns, Inc.

James Still, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Ready to earn your CPP certification?

Upcoming test dates: Oct. 28

Fayetteville

9/16/16 12:34 PM

CPP candidates demonstrate professional knowledge during the written segment of the exam.

Will Ammons Town of Cary

Rebeka Scholan The NC Arboretum

Craig Smith Chesapeake Farms

Candidates must score at least 70 percent on each segment of the exam in order to earn their certification.

For more information, visit ncnla.com, e-mail info@ ncnla.com, or call 919-816-9119.

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 21

FOR 2017

GET ON P

 10 EDUCATION TRACKS – 58 SESSIONS! MIX & MATCH FOR MAXIMUM CEUs

INT

GREEN& GROW N’

G&G’s mix & match education tracks let you custom-tailor the program to your unique interests and earn the CEUs you need.

Early Bird Register by Dec. 31 & Save!

January 16 - 20 Greensboro, NC

W

G&G’16 was a landmark event — drawing record attendance and rave reviews from exhibitors and attendees alike. “To build on that momentum, we spent a lot of time pouring over post event surveys and asking our volunteer leaders for input before determining the program for 2017,” said NCNLA Executive Vice President Corey Connors.

The result is a ten-track education line-up of nearly 60 seminars and workshops.

Topics are focused and fresh. “There’s a track titled ‘At Your Doorstep.’ It’s all about new options, innovations and bright ideas,” Connors said. “Those sessions will be talking about what the millennial generation is looking for as employees and consumers, 21st century marketing and green infrastructure.”

More examples: ‘Up at Night’ covers imminent, big picture concerns —weather and drought control, labor and the guest worker program, tax issues, etc. ‘In the Dirt’ emphasizes landscaping best practices such as planting for pollinators, natural weed controls and integrated pest management. A track focused on irrigation and water management is aptly titled ‘Through the Pipes.’ There’s also a full day of “En Espanola” programming for Spanish-speakers. (See page 25 for details.)

Other G&G updates include the addition of several new networking events throughout the week, and revamped systems to speed up registration and simplify CEU tracking. For G&G Marketplace exhibitors, NCNLA has an expanded package of visibility options.

The goal, said Connors, "is an event that’s ‘On Point’ for everyone — maximum value for a minimum investment of time and money.”

Read on for a preview, and visit GreenandGrowin.com regularly for the latest updates.

22 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

 TECH TOOLS

Paperless CEU Tracking – Have your badge scanned on the way into the class and everything will be updated automatically!

Fast, easy online and on-site registration – no more long lines!

Buy a $20 Raffle Ticket for a chance to win (up to) $2,000. Raffle proceeds will benefit the NCSU Research and Extension Support Fund.

Green & Growin’ by the numbers*

EDUCATION

1,700

Total Attendance

Companies Attended

Contacts

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Exhibiting Companies

After Dark & Industry Awards – Thursday, January 19th Celebrate! After the first day of the Marketplace, relax with the easygoing G&G crowd. Enjoy drinks, light snacks and a live band as you get to know your fellow industry professionals.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 19

SPECIALTY CLASSES & CERTIFICATIONS

7:30 AM – 9:00 AM

NCNLA Membership Breakfast & Annual Meeting

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

GREEN & GROWIN’ MARKETPLACE

(See page 24 for topics)

(Registration hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

SPECIALTY CLASSES & CERTIFICATIONS

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

KEYNOTE ADDRESS Jason Goldberg, International Speaker, Trainer, & Coach

9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

EDUCATION TRACKS (See page 26 for topics)

11:30 AM – 12:45 PM

NEW “FEED YOUR MIND” LUNCHEON

5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

NEW GREEN & GROWIN' HAPPY HOUR WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18

412

After Hours – Wednesday, January 18th Wrap up the evening with post-dinner drinks and pleasant conversation (business or social — you choose) as you network with exhibitors and attendees.

MONDAY, JANUARY 16

8:00 AM – 9:15 AM

31

January 19 – 20 Special Events Center at the Greensboro Coliseum

(See page 24 for topics)

93

Happy Hour – Tuesday, January 17th Take time to wind down after a long day of learning. Chat with colleagues over drinks before heading out to dinner for the evening.

MARKETPLACE

January 16 – 18 Sheraton Greensboro at Four Seasons

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

States Represented

GREEN& GROW N’

TUESDAY, JANUARY 17

Made % Exhibitors New Customer

“Feed Your Mind” Luncheon – Tuesday, January 17th Dine with industry leaders in a round table format as you network and discuss hot industry topics and trends.

SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE

GREEN& GROW N’

4,755

Spend the day delving into a single topic area or attend sessions in several different tracks. With ten tracks, two days and nearly 60 sessions, the choices are endless!

 RAFFLE TICKET DRAWING

NCNLA Aims High with Brand New Education Tracks, Networking Events and More! hen you break your own record, what is next? Raise the bar, of course. That’s what NCNLA is aiming for at Green & Growin’17, January 16-20 in Greensboro, NC.

 NETWORKING EVENTS

8:00 AM – 9:15 AM

KEYNOTE BREAKFAST Charlie Hall, Texas A&M

8:30 AM - 7:30 PM

NC Sod Producers Association Annual Meeting

9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

EDUCATION TRACKS (See page 27 for topics)

5:00 PM - 7:30 PM

NC Green Industry Council Annual Meeting

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

NEW GREEN & GROWIN' AFTER HOURS

NEW GREEN & GROWIN’ AFTER DARK AND INDUSTRY AWARDS FRIDAY, JANUARY 20

9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

GREEN & GROWIN’ MARKETPLACE

(Registration hours: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Women in the Green Industry Gathering

VISIBILITY OPTIONS FOR EXHIBITORS AND SPONSORS Exciting new ways to maximize your visibility at G&G’17.

Contact NCNLA for details or visit GreenandGrowin.com

GreenandGrowin.com

*Statistics based on G&G 16 FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 23

GREEN& GROW N’

EDUCATION

Specialty Classes and Certifications, 1- and 2-day Classes

January 16 – 20 Sheraton Greensboro at Four Seasons

GreenandGrowin.com

Gain marketable skills and career-boosting credentials. Sign up soon. Class size is limited.

MONDAY, JAN. 16 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Budgeting and Estimating Workshop 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM Pesticide License Class & Test 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM ICPI Level One Paver Certification Sponsored by Belgard

TUESDAY, JAN. 17

Sponsored by Belgard

ICPI PICP Specialist Course Sponsored by Belgard 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM Spanish Pesticide License Training Sponsored by National Hispanic Landscape Alliance 1:00 – 5:00 PM Landscape Weed ID & Management Workshop

Spanish Pesticide License Training Sponsored by National Hispanic Landscape Alliance

ICPI PICP Specialist Course

Sponsored by Belgard*

Earn Your ICPI PICP Specialist Technician Certification — learn skills to increase your bottom line.

**Class is limited to 60 people — you must be pre-registered to attend**

Sponsored by Belgard*

**Class is limited to 60 people — you must be pre-registered to attend**

Monday, January 16

January 16 – 17

8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Registration Fee: Class and Certification Test

Registration Fee: Class and Certification Test ICPI members $280 (must verify membership with ICPI)

NCNLA members $315

Nonmembers $350

*Belgard will provide breakfast, lunch and breaks Instructor: Belgard Representative This practical two-day course is designed to enhance the knowledge of individuals involved in the construction and installation of interlocking concrete pavements. The course is taught by ICPI Instructors and is tied together with a video that takes participants through a step-by-step concrete paver installation.

The following are the informative topics that are addressed in the curriculum: Job planning and documentation, estimating quantities, job layout and flow, Soil characteristics and compaction, Base materials, Edge restraints, Bedding and joint sands, Selection and installation of concrete pavers, Maintenance and Management, Specialty Applications and construction tips, Safety, Estimating and job costing, and Contract basics **You may study before the course by reading the student manual online at: icpi.org/studyicpi. A student manual will be provided on-site, so it is NOT necessary to print the manual from the online files.**

ICPI members **Verify NCNLA membership with ICPI members $236 (must verify $266 membership with ICPI)

Spanish Pesticide License part 2 Review (8:30 AM-12:00 PM) & Test (1:00 PM-5:30 PM), Sponsored by National Hispanic Landscape Alliance

Learn how to meet industry-established

ICPI Level One Concrete Paver Installer Course Earn Your ICPI LEVEL ONE Paver Certification — Learn Skills to Increase Your Bottom Line

WED., JAN. 18

Budgeting and Estimating Workshop Pesticide License Class & Test ICPI Level One Paver Certification

Nonmembers $295

Belgard will provide lunch, breakfast & breaks

guidelines for residential and commercial PICP applications.

Broaden your knowledge and be recognized for course completion and passing the exam.

Enhance your professional credibility with additional industry credentials.

Help improve the quality of PICP installations and build more public awareness of the value that design professionals provide. **You may study before the course by reading the student manual online at: icpi.org/studyicpi. A student manual will be provided on-site, so it is NOT necessary to print the manual from the online files.**

Landscape Weed ID & Management Workshop

Instructor: Belgard Representative

**Class is limited to 30 people**

This is a classroom-based program for experienced contractors who either already do residential and/or commercial concrete pavement installations, or who wish to move into the permeable pavement market. It will be valuable for those who currently install permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP), or plan to expand into the PICP arena.

Monday, January 16

Curriculum topics include an overview and systems, job planning and documentation, job layout, flow and estimating quantities, soil and site characteristics, sub-base and base materials, edge restraints, bedding and jointing materials, paver selection and installation, and maintenance.

Instructor: Joe Neal, NC State University

Spanish Pesticide Licensing

**Class is limited to 100 people — you must be pre-registered to attend**

Sponsored by the National Hispanic Landscape Alliance January 16 – 17 – 18

January 16 – 17 Class registration (Includes Cost of Books & Lunch) Early Bird Regular

Members

Non-members

$150 $175

$200 $225

Test registration (paid to NCDA on site)

1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Registration Fee Early Bird Regular

Pesticide Licensing

Members

Non-members

$110 $125

$160 $175

Learn how to identify weeds and develop a landscape weed management plan in this half-day, hands-on workshop. **This class includes a copy the book “Weeds of Southern Turf Grass” by Tim Murphy.**

24 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

Early Bird Regular

Core Test

Categories

$50

$20 each

$50

** You will pay the test fee to NCDA when you arrive on Tuesday to take the exam** Cash or check only Instructor: Wayne Buhler, North Carolina State University

Members

Non-members

$150 $175

$200 $225

Test registration (paid to NCDA on site) Core Test

Instructor: Cesar Asuaje, University of Florida/ Palm Beach County Extension

Day 1: Monday, Jan. 16 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Noon – 1:00 PM 1:00 – 4:00 PM

Day 2: Tuesday, Jan. 17 8:30 AM – Noon Noon – 1:00 PM 1:00 – 4:00 PM

Ornamental and Turf grass Training Lunch break NC Pesticide Applicators Licensing Exam (given

by NCDA)

$20 each

**This class is limited to 50 people (no more than 2 people from the same company) — you must be pre-registered to attend**

January 16 – 17 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Registration Fee (Includes lunch) Early Bird Regular

Members

Non-members

$300 $315

$350 $365

*Includes lunch Instructor: Marcus vandeVliet, MV Enterprises

8:30 AM – Noon

Core Safety Training and NC laws Lunch break Continue session

Categories

** You have to pay for the exam separately**

Day 1: Monday, Jan. 16

** You have to pay for the exam separately**

*You must pre-register to attend these courses.

Class registration (Includes Cost of Books & Lunch)

Landscape Budgeting & Estimating Workshop

Training

Day 2: Tuesday, Jan. 17 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Training

Day 3: Wednesday, Jan. 18 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Review NC Pesticide Applicators Licensing Exam (given

by NCDA)

Day 1: Monday, Jan. 16 Day One would consist of developing a budget specifically for your company, projected for 2017.

This would include a sales budget, a budget for your production costs and a budget for recovering overhead. Key financial ratios will also be reviewed, and compared to industry standards.

This budget would be used for developing an overhead recovery method, and to also project your company's monthly cash flow.

Day 2: Tuesday, Jan. 17 Day Two would consist of estimating a landscape project using your company's costs and overhead. This would include labor, materials, equipment and subcontractor costs. We would also determine the recovered overhead and profit amount. All attendees would submit a bid, and the prices will be shared anonymously.

This workshop will be based on real-world information and scenarios.

*You must pre-register to attend these courses.

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 25

GREEN& GROW N’

All programs take place at the Sheraton Greensboro at Four Seasons

EDUCATION SCHEDULE

GREEN& GROW N’

EDUCATION SCHEDULE

All programs take place at the Sheraton Greensboro at Four Seasons

Build and Expand Your Skills, Learn Best Business Practices, Earn CEUs!

TUESDAY, JANUARY 17 8:00 AM – 9:15 AM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18 8:00 AM – 9:15 AM

KEYNOTE ADDRESS Jason Goldberg, International Speaker, Trainer, & Coach

EDUCATION IN THE DIRT TRACKS

AT THE DRAWING BOARD UP AT NIGHT

THROUGH THE PIPES Provided by Carolinas Irrigation Association

EN ESPANOLA

Provided by National Hispanic Landscape Alliance *Classes taught entirely in Spanish*

9:30 AM – 10:20 AM

"Natural" Products for Weed Control in Landscape Plantings

Hot Trends in Landscape Design – Part 1, Outdoor Kitchens & Living Spaces

Labor and Guest Worker Programs

Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Increasing Crew & Crew Leader Accountability

10:30 AM – 11:20 AM

Preventing Insect Injuries to Trees and Shrubs from The Ground Up

Hot Trends in Landscape Design – Part 2, The hot trend in Fire & Water Features, Green Technologies & Water Conservation, LED Lighting

What’s it Worth?

Promoting the Green in Green Industry

Irrigation Pump Filtration Systems

Creating a Safety Culture

11:30 AM – 12:45 PM 1:00 PM – 1:50 PM

Bringing Bees, Hardscape Best Practices Butterflies, and Beauty into Gardens and Landscapes

NC Sales & Use Tax Update

Two Wire Troubleshooting Water Pressure, Key to Efficient Irrigation Systems

2:00 PM – 2:50 PM

Pruning the Right Way Plant Selection: Using All to Minimize Potential We Got! Risk

Weather & Drought Preparation

Building your Irrigation Service Department

3:00 PM – 3:50 PM

What We Have Learned about Scale Insect Management

Should I Stay or Should I Go Now? Firsthand Lessons in Transferring Ownership of a Business Under Duress, and How You Can Prepare for It

Southeastern Landscape Water Management Practice

Extending Credit to your Customers

Five Steps to Digging Safely

4:00 PM – 4:50 PM

IPM Strategies for New Warm Season Turfgrass Cultivars

Homeowner’s Dream vs.

Reality – Part 2

EDUCATION BACK AT THE OFFICE TRACKS

AT YOUR DOORSTEP

9:30 AM – 10:20 AM

Do you Really Understand the Law Governing your Landscape Contractors License?

10:30 AM – 11:20 AM

Minimum Standards and What Millennials Want Rules governing your from you as a Customer Landscape Contractors or Employee License

Booster Pumps and Pressure Regulators, Why, When, Where, and How

OUT IN THE NURSERY

New Plant Introductions: Loss Prevention Panel Discussion

11:30 AM – 12:45 PM

“FEED YOUR MIND” LUNCHEON *pre-registration required

Homeowner’s Dream vs.

Reality – Part 1

KEYNOTE BREAKFAST Charlie Hall, Texas A&M

Measure What You Want to Manage

AROUND THE CANOPY ON THE LAWN Provided by NC Urban Forestry Council

Provided by NC SOD Producers Association

Slow Death- The Life of a Tree in Parking Lots

Monitoring for Pest Problems, A New Perspective

Pay it Forward Only Works Common Abiotic if You Plant It Correctly Problems Observed in NC Lawns

NETWORKING LUNCH *pre-registration required

1:00 PM – 1:50 PM

Job Costing & Bidding

Marketing to Generation Understanding the EPA Me Ag Worker Protection Standards

2:00 PM – 2:50 PM

Avoiding a Disaster in NC (risk management & Insurance)

Is Green Infrastructure a Marketing Opportunity for You?

Plastics Recycling – Does What’s Bugging My Trees? it Make Sense?

An Integrated Approach to Managing Difficult Turf Weeds

3:00 PM – 3:50 PM

How Proactive Sales Will Help You Raise Business Performance

Your Website – A Critical Link Between Your Business and More Business

Budgeting Water Use Effectively

Real World” Native Tree Panel Discussion

Developing a Comprehensive Management Strategy for Landscape Turf Pests

4:00 PM – 4:50 PM

How to Understand and Deal with HOA Requirements

Retail Trends

Emerging Pest/Threats/ Treatment within the Horticulture Industry

Local Landscape Ordinances & Standards Panel Discussion

Pruning from the Utility Perspective

Smart Irrigation and Healthy Landscapes

GreenandGrowin.com GreenandGrowin.com

26 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 27

GREEN& GROW N’

FEATURED KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Jason Goldberg Applying the Principles of Self Leadership Jason Goldberg is a geek turned entrepreneur, turned international speaker, trainer, coach and co-host of the The Not-So-Serious Life Web TV Show.

His simple but powerful training has helped thousands of individuals and businesses overcome challenges and find fresh opportunities. He’s bringing his transformational presentation to Green & Growin’ 2017.

Charlie Hall

You can earn continuing education credits toward nine state and national licenses and certifications at Green & Growin’17. Details are on the website: GreenandGrowin. com/education/ceus.

North Carolina

Measure What You Want to Manage Dr. Charlie Hall is a professor and holds the Ellison Chair in International Floriculture at Texas A&M University. He serves as the Chief Economist for AmeriHort.

How many green industry businesses really know the financial status of their business?

Recent departures of some very good firms in the industry is bringing the reality home that growers must be financially prepared for times when cash flows slow down. Which financial and operational benchmarks are worth your time tracking and how much deviation from these benchmarks is acceptable before corrective actions should be taken?

Need CEUs?

Landscape Contractors’ License

Pesticide License & Certification

Irrigation Contractors’ License

Landscape Architects License

South Carolina Pesticide License Tennessee Pesticide License National

In this session, attendees will learn how to set their own benchmarks and gauge whether or not they really are doing as well as they think they are!

ISA Certified Arborist

NALP Landscape Industry Certified

GROWERS OF SUPERIOR QUALITY WOODY ORNAMENTALS PLANTS, SHRUBS, AND TREES

GreenandGrowin.com 28 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 29

By Kaley Jacobs, NCNLA

Housing Outlook

2 16

Part 3 of our series on the North Carolina real estate market

BIG PICTURE: LOCAL VIEWS Asheville • Greensboro/Winston-Salem • Wilmington

D

espite the steadily increasing demand for housing, residential construction growth continues to be hampered by limited lots, labor and lending.

Recent data suggests that builders’ financing conditions are improving —

the number of AD&C loans for residential construction has expanded by 16 percent since the second quarter of 2013. However, the amount being loaned is much lower than in previous years.

Meanwhile, the larger hurdle of insufficient labor continues. The most recent count puts unfilled construction jobs at 214,000 — near the post-recession high of 215,000 set earlier this year. This incessant trend suggests that lack of labor will remain as a significant supply-side headwind into the foreseeable future.

Realtors, Builders Point Out Opportunities for Landscapers and Nurseries Housing construction shifts naturally impact demand for plant materials and landscaping services. For this third (and final) segment of our series on the North Carolina housing market, we turned first to Phyllis York Brookshire, president of top-ranked Allen Tate Realtors®, for statewide perspective. We then drilled down to the local level with realtors, homebuilders and housing association execs from Asheville, Greensboro, Winston-Salem and Wilmington. Here’s what they had to say.

30 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 31

Panel of Experts Asheville

Wilmington

TRENDING NOW

Christi Stokes Homebuyers today want an easier, more integrated landscape, according to our panelists. Topping the list: n

Low maintenance – easier plant care, less lawn mowing

n

Native plants and grasses

n

Natural hardscapes

n

Natural privacy screens (more plants, less fencing)

n

Outdoor living spaces with yearround comforts

n

kitchen/grilling area

gas fireplaces

fire pits

bars

Christi Stokes is Executive Officer of the Asheville Home Builders Association (AHBA). Through strong member communications and programs, she helped grow AHBA into the fourth largest home builders association in North Carolina.

J. Thomas McClain III operates Home Sweet Home, a concierge builder in Asheville. A Certified Green Building professional, McClain is the former president of the Asheville Home Builders Association and was honored as it’s Builder of the Year.

Greensboro/Winston Salem

Robin Hackney

Cameron Moore

Robin Hackney designs and builds homes. Her husband, Deans, develops land and lots. Together they run Horizon Homes of Wilmington, specializing in custom and individualized homes with an eye toward sustainability and energy efficiency.

Robin has been part of the building industry for 20 years and is a Certified Green Professional with the National Association of Home Builders.

Cameron Moore is Executive Officer of the Wilmington-Cape Fear Home Builders Association and CEO of Business Alliance for a Sound Economy (BASE). He has been involved in the real estate/development industry for 14 years – as planning director for the town of Leland, project manager for B&K Coastal and a principal lobbyist for BASE.

Bringing the outdoors “in”

open verandas

huge sliding glass doors

screened porches

sunrooms

32 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

NC Overview Megan Parks

Betty Smith

Megan Parks is the first woman to serve as Executive Vice President of the Home Builders Association of Winston-Salem since the organization was founded in 1959.

She joined the staff in 2008 as director of membership and operations.

Betty Smith has spent 34 years in the real estate industry. She and her two sons own Smith Marketing, a residential real estate firm serving homebuyers and builders/developers.

Her company is the top sales team in the Triad area and ranks 8th statewide.

Phyllis York Brookshire is President of Allen Tate Realtors®. She oversees residential operations for 1,500 realtors and more

than 200 staff across a four-region footprint in the Carolinas. She serves on the board of the Realtor Foundation of Wake County and is a past president of Raleigh Regional Association of Realtors. She is the recipient of the 2016 President’s Award from Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®.

NLN: What’s the real estate/housing market like in your area?

How are sales for new homes, existing homes?

NORTH CAROLINA

ASHEVILLE

WILMINGTON

BROOKSHIRE: Closed sales of new homes in the Triangle region increased 19% over last year at this time, while existing homes saw a 9.4% uptick year-over-year. However, sales of new and existing homes have begun to cool across most of NC, largely due to an extreme lack of inventory, particularly under $400,000.

We believe that the impact of the year-overyear decline in homes available for sale will be present for the remainder of the year.

McCLAIN: Things are really getting back to booming the way they were prior to 2008.

The market is the strongest it has been in the last eight years.

HACKNEY: There is a lot of new construction going on. Our company does custom home building and specializes in the upscale side of things. We don’t get a lot of first time home buyers.

According to the National Association of Realtors, home prices maintained their robust, upward trajectory in the majority of metro areas in NC during the second quarter of 2016, causing affordability to slightly decline despite mortgage rates hovering at lows not seen in over three years.

The Raleigh metro is the most expensive market in NC with median home prices at $258,800 — a 4.4% uptick from a year ago. The Durham-Chapel Hill metro has the second highest median home prices at $245,700 — up 5.1%. By comparison, the Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC market has a median home price of $218,100.

In the Triangle region, the average sales price of a new home during the second quarter of 2016 was $346,000 — an increase of 4% compared to the same time period last year.

The average sales price per square foot of new construction during the second quarter of 2016 was $131, up from $125 during the second quarter of 2015. Unfortunately, much of the new construction is at a higher price point and not satisfying demand.

STOKES: New home construction is up.

We saw a 16% increase in residential building permits for the first half of this year (compared to 2015). Property overall for this area is in high demand and likely to continue to sell quickly from all fronts — both lots for new construction as well as fixer-upper properties.

GREENSBORO/WINSTON-SALEM PARKS (W-S): The Triad market is up 12% in building permits (for single family homes) compared to this time last year. There is a healthy mix of both new home construction and remodeling in the area. Real estate sales and transactions are happening at a very high rate. In the last few months there have been homes going on the market and under contract the very same day.

Aging-in-Place Design continues to shine.

People are choosing to stay in their current home and remodel for their health needs.

In new construction, we are seeing the growth of Universal Design. Homeowners are drawing floorplans with the idea that they will be in that home forever... so the layout of the house has to continue to work through all stages of life — families with kids, empty nesters and the elderly in need of medical/ wheelchair access.

SMITH (G): The market is strong from entrylevel homes to the second move up (homes in the $400,000 range). Upper-end homes are moving slower.

MOORE: Generally speaking, Wilmington overall is a very robust market right now.

There are lots of price points, but mainly it’s within the middle-tier, $250,000 to $450,000.

We’ve been seeing the highest growth in Brunswick, New Hanover and Pender counties.

Since we live in a coastal area, we’ve seen lifestyle communities geared toward the retirement/baby boomer market take off over the past 10 years. Compass Pointe, a 2,200acre gated golfing community off U.S. 74 in Brunswick County, is a good example. These communities are “self supporting” in that they include trails/pathways, parks, pools, golf courses, gyms, commercial properties, village shops, etc. Developments like these, combined with our lower cost of living, higher temperatures and a laid back lifestyle position Brunswick to be an ideal place to settle down — especially for people migrating from up north.

Brunswick averages roughly 3,000 building permits per year; New Hanover does 900-1,000. These are areas that have water/ sewer availability. In the Surf City/Hamstead area of Pender County they are putting more infrastructure down so that the growth will continue for years to come. From a regional perspective, Wilmington is poised really well for growth.

Early involvement “It’s important to look at the whole picture,” said Stokes. “Builders can bring the landscaper in during early planning to address homeowners’ vision for their exterior living space.”

OPPORTUNITY

Bringing outdoors in “More homeowners are building smaller houses but using their property as a continuation of their living space,” Parks said. “Moving glass walls/full windows have made it possible for a smooth transition between the inside space to outdoors.”

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 33

NLN: What are the main factors driving this? What is your outlook for the rest of 2016?

NORTH CAROLINA

ASHEVILLE:

BROOKSHIRE: The lack of new and existing inventory will slow the pace of closed transactions throughout the remainder of 2016.

And while new home builders have quickened their pace of construction, the increase in land prices is driving new home prices upward and generally higher than the market is seeking. The majority of oversupplied price brackets for new and existing homes are above $800,000.

McCLAIN: Asheville is a destination area and there is a lot of pent up demand. There are no signs of that slowing down, so the growth should continue.

One factor favorable to the Triangle-area’s housing market is the number of buyers moving in from competing high-tech markets. Buyers arriving from Austin, San Francisco and Boston are bringing a significant amount of housing equity with them, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Each of these markets has an average sales price significantly above our market.

These buyers are attracted to the homes in the $400,000+ price point where new and existing home inventory is higher.

STOKES: It’s forecasted that the population will continue to grow through a mix of new buyers as well as renters.

GREENSBORO/WINSTON-SALEM PARKS (W-S): We have a steady market without large increases or decreases in the building area. The limited number of lots available for new construction has been a large factor keeping the market where it is.

However, permits for all construction projects continue to increase; and projections look promising for both new home construction and resales. Of course low mortgage rates are still a factor, as is the healthy job growth in our market.

SMITH (G): The job market is the most constant factor in home sales. More people are being employed at entry level jobs and lower-level management.

WILMINGTON HACKNEY: The market is very busy and it doesn’t seem like it will slow down anytime soon. We recently bought some land, and (lots) are already sold. People just drove past and wanted to buy (a home site) — without any advertising or construction started.

MOORE: I predict a slight market correction in the third quarter next year. We get a lot of cash buyers from New Jersey, New York and Connecticut; and the lot areas they’re coming to buy will increase in price over the next 12 months. Home prices are sliding a little into the path of unaffordability.

NLN: Which areas are experiencing the fastest growth right now and what differentiates them?

NORTH CAROLINA BROOKSHIRE: Generally speaking, the Raleigh/Triangle, Charlotte, Greensboro/ Winston-Salem, Wilmington and Asheville metro areas are enjoying healthy growth both in population and housing activity. Only the Greensboro-High Point market is seeing a slight dip in median home prices year-overyear. Through the second quarter of 2016 the median home price in that market was $159,300, a 0.3% decline.

Greensboro-High Point and WinstonSalem are the most affordable metros in NC. Winston-Salem’s median home price is $153,600 — a 2.8% uptick year-over-year.

Both of these markets have lagged behind other metros in NC due to the decline in manufacturing and the textile industry.

The Triangle and Charlotte markets continue to have robust technology, pharma, banking, and health care employment opportunities.

Growth in those sectors has contributed to enviable housing markets.

34 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

The “destination” markets of Asheville and Wilmington are seeing an influx of retirees and millennials. Both markets are seeing year-over-year gains on closed units and closed dollar volume. Wilmington closed dollar volume year-over-year is up 9%, while Asheville registered a 4% gain.

ASHEVILLE McCLAIN: It’s not limited to a specific area — all of Buncombe County is doing well. There is a lot of commercial and residential construction.

STOKES: With the low inventory on properties and lots in the heart of Asheville, outlying areas in all directions will continue to see new communities and subdivisions arise.

GREENSBORO/WINSTON-SALEM

Large commercial/retail work is also being completed in those areas; that attracts consumers seeking employment and convenient living.

What are the general building trends with relation to landscaping (examples: outdoor living areas, fire pits, smaller lawns, lower maintenance landscapes, etc.)?

BROOKSHIRE: The trends you listed within the question are all very valid. In addition, consider this: Over the last five years, urban centers have captured 21% of residential growth compared to the 30-year norm of 8%. That trend is likely to continue. That said, landscaping professionals should think of ways to accommodate urban landscaping needs in addition to those of the more traditional suburban market. How can landscapers be part of the interest around urban “city farms”? Deck gardening 101? Generally, how does proper landscaping contribute to a sustainable urban or suburban community?

Many homebuyers are looking for eco-friendly housing. They want products and systems that make for a comfortable living space and reduced energy costs.

Creative, resourceful landscaping can help with those “wants.”

Given the current housing market in NC, what opportunities do you see for landscapers, nurseries, retail garden centers, and related green industry businesses over the next 6-12 months?

BROOKSHIRE: Potential homebuyers frustrated by a lack of housing choices may choose to hunker down and invest in their existing homes. The real estate rule of thumb says one should spend between 5% and 15% of a home’s value on landscaping. Accordingly, there would seem to be a good near-term opportunity for those in the green industry.

Do you have any advice for green industry business owners relative to the current housing market?

BROOKSHIRE: Think outside of the suburban box. One size does not fit all when it comes to landscaping. I see many homebuyers seeking energy efficiency and sustainability in their real estate, and creative landscaping can help to that end.

OPPORTUNITY

Matching lifestyles “Everyone wants the landscape to be green and pretty but with less maintenance,” Smith said. “Offer homeowners plans that fit their outdoor living preferences — like privacy screening, natural areas and space set up for box gardening.”

Focus on gardening “Don’t underestimate the opportunity represented by local/home food production,” said Moore. “Look at the growth of neighborhood and community gardens and the increased interest in home gardening.”

SMITH (G): Most of the mid- to upper-end home sales are in the north and northwest areas of Guilford County. Greensboro city areas are doing well when the location is right — particularly in the west, northwest and north.

WILMINGTON HACKNEY: New Hanover/Wilmington is booming right now. Also, Brunswick County has a lot going for it. Large, all-encompassing communities like Compass Point are under construction. Low-maintenance, super-convenient living is extremely popular with buyers right now.

PARKS (W-S): In areas surrounding Winston Salem — including Clemmons, Lewisville and Kernersville — there is a lot of growth in developments and new home construction.

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 35

NLN: How can green industry businesses work more closely with Realtors® and homebuilders? What kinds of challenges can a landscaper, nursery or other green business help a Realtor or homebuilder address?

RETIREMENT SALE

NORTH CAROLINA

GREENSBORO/WINSTON-SALEM

BROOKSHIRE: Realtors and homebuilders need to understand that the “staging” of a home for sale should include its exterior.

Attractive landscaping can mean more to a “first impression” than the color of the home’s front door or the placement of the furniture. Proper landscaping can also preemptively address homebuyers’ concerns over the amount of sunlight a house receives, adequate privacy from the neighbors, erosion control, or even where best to plant a suburban garden.

PARKS (W-S): I feel it is important to understand the entire look/style of the home. Having an open dialogue between all subcontractors can really transform a project. A landscaper who has a working relationship with a builder/architect can help create a turnkey property with a consistent vision from the streetscape to the back porch.

Remodeling and up-fitting projects also need to include reconstructing the flow of outdoor living spaces in most cases. Landscapers and nurseries can help save time and money by assisting with a precise plan prior to the start of each project.

ASHEVILLE

Immediate Income Available Via Wholesale or Landscape Sales

Field Grown shade and ornamental trees and shrubs Holly-Single Stem Tree Form and Full Form Osmanthus • Oak • Red Bud • Magnolia • Cherry • Birch • Elm • Viburnum • and more!

Located in Charlotte NC phone 704-596-4516 email kirkdavisnurserysales@gmail.com www.kirkdavisnursery.com visit our new website at

www.kirkdavisnursery.com 36 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

For Sale in its entirety, or, Inventory Only with use of the land and facilities for one year to sell, grow or landscape off property…

DARDEN’S NURSERY is a five acre container nursery in Clinton, NC.

• Azalea Specialist- Darden’s Nursery grows 75 azalea varieties, plus hollies, junipers, crape myrtles, and much more.

• Extensive customers list included.

• All sizes of plants are in progression, Rooted cuttings, liners, 1&3 gallon.

• Inventory is available upon request.

Email jimdarden@embarqmail.com | Telephone (910) 590-9689

STOKES: We face a lot of erosion control and steep slope building challenges in our area.

Landscapers and homebuilders can work closely together in the planning process.

Thoughtfully addressing those issues upfront avoids surprises down the road for the homeowner.

Whether building a new home or remodeling an existing one, it’s important to look at the whole picture. Builders can bring the landscaper in during the early planning or discussion phase to address the homeowners’ needs and vision for their exterior living space.

SMITH (G): As a realtor, I am always pointing out to resale owners that they need to trim back, take out all the overgrown plantings and plant flowers for curb appeal. The green industry needs to market the advantages of getting yards and outdoor spaces more attractive to buyers. Start your own reality show!

need to stop and think about how the outside area “lives” and what would bring the most value and enjoyment to the homeowner.

WILMINGTON HACKNEY: Start by joining your local HBA — and get involved. Go to the events and introduce yourself. Builders and realtors refer landscapers that they know and trust. I have a landscaper I have used for the past eight years. That’s where I send all my customers.

Start networking and get your name out there.

MOORE: Wilmington is a robust market, strongly positioned with plenty of opportunities. Joining the HBA and developing relationships with builders and contractors is the best thing you can do for yourself and your business.

On new construction, we love to meet with our builders and the landscaper to talk about what the home needs. Everyone looks at it from their business perspective, but we all OPPORTUNITY

City greens Hackney talked about larger community lots being built. “These are contractual jobs bid out by the local government. Winning one ensures a large volume of work now and for the future.”

Serious requests only, please.

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 37

old courthouse ads_Old Courthouse ad 2014 12/8/14 1:56 PM Page 1

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

P.O. Box 395 Seaboard, NC 27876 Phone: (252) 589-1324 • Fax: (252) 589-1642 email: Stephanie@carolinabark.com • Suppliers of bulk aged pine bark fines.

• Custom mixes available containing lime, sand and/or minors/ • Fast, dependable service

Memberships: North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association

NATIVE PLANTS FOR SALE

We Specialize in Herbaceous Native Plants for:

• Storm Water Management Ponds • Rain Gardens • Dune & Tidal Marsh Grasses • Upland Meadows

OLD COURTHOUSE NURSERY Supplying growers, garden centers, landscapers and re-wholesalers with ornamental trees and shrubs

1 to 25 Gallon Containers 323 Old Courthouse Road Warsaw, NC 28398 www.oldcourthousenurserync.com oldcourthousenursery@embarqmail.com (910) 293-9374 Jeff Allegood

FAX (910)-293-9375 Earl McDonald

CASEY NURSERY, INC. A family tradition since 1927

caseynursery.com

Growers of quality shrubs, trees, and groundcovers. email or call for a current availability 1-800-891-1801• Fax 919-735-2307

HORTICULTURAL SERVICES

Kevin T. Fabula

410-329-6466 Fax 410-329-2156

19960 Gore Mill Road, Freeland, MD 21053 www.signaturehort.com • kevin@signaturehort.com

38 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

Provided by NCNLA and AmericanHort as a Lighthouse Program partner benefit. For the latest information about these and other federal legislative concerns, visit AmericanHort.org

Amy Dill - caseynurserysales@gmail.com Lee Casey - leercasey@gmail.com Hunter Casey - hjcasey22@gmail.com Larry Watson - lww.caseynursery@gmail.com 1115 Claridge Nursery Rd., Goldsboro, NC 27530

New Bill Would Soften Blow of Overtime Rule Rep. Kurt Schrader (D-OR), a longstanding friend and champion of the horticulture industry, has introduced a bill that would partially address employer concerns surrounding the Department of Labor’s (DOL) new overtime changes, which take effect December 1.

The Overtime Reform and Enhancement Act, H.R.5813, would more modestly increase the current $23,660 “white collar exemption” minimum salary threshold to $35,984 on December 1. Further increases would be phased in over the next three years, eventually bringing the threshold to the level established under the new DOL rule ($47,476) on December 1, 2019. The bill also would eliminate the automatic indexing that is part of the DOL rule; however, it would retain the authority of the Secretary of Labor to go through rulemaking to update the threshold in the future.

AmericanHort, the National Christmas Tree Association and many of AmericanHort’s association Lighthouse grassroots program partners — NCNLA among them — have endorsed Rep. Schrader’s bill.

OMB Meeting Focuses on H-2 Program Delays, Solutions AmericanHort met in July with officials of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Department of Labor to discuss how to avoid or minimize H-2A and H-2B program processing delays in the months and years ahead. AmericanHort set the stage by describing the growing labor challenges confronting the industry and the fact that these two programs are the only seasonal labor safety nets available to industry employers. Pressure on the programs is growing, yet there are antiquated processes and poor inter-agency coordination.

With changes looming in the months ahead, it was important to open a dialogue about progress and continuing challenges with these critical programs.

What’s PlantPAC? Well, it’s not a new way of displaying plants to the consumer. It is, however, a way to present our industry to decision-makers in Congress.

PlantPAC is the AmericanHort Political Action Committee. Its purpose is to give AmericanHort members a voice in federal elections by pooling their resources to support candidates who support an advocacy agenda on behalf of growers, garden retailers, landscapers and all who are part of the horticulture community.

Like it or not, America’s political system is competitive, and it takes resources to run for office. Political action committees don’t buy votes, but they do provide a way to gain access to lawmakers, educate them and tell the industry’s story. PlantPAC is a way for AmericanHort members to each give a little, and together, have more impact.

As with most things in life, there are some rules. PlantPAC can only accept personal contributions from owners, salaried employees and immediate family of member firms who have first given prior permission to be asked for a contribution. For more information visit AmericanHort.org

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 39

INDUSTRY NEWS NC State Professor Brian Whipker Wins National Floriculture Research Award A renowned researcher on plant growth regulators who developed numerous tools and resources for the industry is the 2016 recipient of the Society of American Florists’ Alex Laurie Award. The honor was presented to Brian E. Whipker, Ph.D., on Sept.

24 during the association’s 132nd Annual Convention in Maui, Hawaii.

International Conference Focuses on Pollinator Research The third international conference on pollinator biology, health, and policy was held in mid-July at Penn State University.

Attendees and speakers represented various worldwide research objectives relating to pollinators, primarily bees. Two over-arching themes emerged from the topics discussed: bee nutrition and the impact of pesticides on bees. Many discussions surrounded the topic of pollinator plantings to ensure

proper bee nutrition. Pesticides were also discussed, though less prominently featured than previous years.

Dr. Dan Potter of the University of Kentucky was the only presenter to discuss urban landscapes. He stressed that very few woody trees and shrubs are both bee-attractive and commonly require pesticides to maintain their health.

Europe Makes Modest Change to Xylella Import Rules

with this and other amendments. This process should be completed in a few months.

A bit of good news has emerged for those seeking to export plant material to the European Union (EU). Plants grown in vitro, such as tissue culture, are now exempt from the Xylella fastidiosa quarantine restrictions and testing requirements, according to a recent amendment to the EU’s phytosanitary directive that applies to all host plant material originating from the U.S. Phytosanitary certificates should still reference the EU 2015/789 Directive until the original order is updated

X. fastidiosa is a bacterial plant pathogen common to North and South America. It was first identified in the EU in 2013 and has since killed over a million olive trees in southern Italy. No known treatment exists for the disease, and over 350 plant species have been listed as hosts.

40 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

Plant Importers Take Note Those importing live plants, unrooted cuttings and cut flowers should be aware that the federal government is steadily moving toward an integrated, electronic process for imports and exports. By the end of 2016, the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) will become the “single window” — the primary system through which the trade community will report imports and exports and the government will determine admissibility. According to Customs and Border

By contrast, Dr. Potter reported that many other woody plants attract bees and have no major pest problems and therefore rarely, if ever, require pesticide treatments. Examples include St. John’s wort, fuzzy deutzia, sweetspire (Itea), glossy abelia, buttonbush, and dwarf fothergilla. For a copy of Dr. Potter’s full, updated list contact jillc@ americanhort.org

A professor of floriculture at NC State University, Dr. Whipker is known as both an exceptional researcher and a powerful educator with a strong passion for service. He is an internationally acclaimed expert in the fields of plant growth regulators and plant nutrition.

Dr. Whipker has a long history of researching and understanding plant responses to the

environment including diagnosing and solving plant disorders, and is the pre-eminent academic resource in the field. He has also developed nutritional diagnostic tools across species, and applied his research to create grower guides that help identify many different deficiency symptoms. These guides are designed for ease of use by greenhouse personnel and staff to allow for more rapid identification of plant problems.

From the late 90’s through today, Dr. Whipker’s research on plant growth regulators has helped the average greenhouse grower make better-educated production decisions.

Most research prior to his came from cooler climates and had little relevancy in 100-plus degree greenhouse temperatures in mid-May. Today, any grower — especially in the southern half of the U.S.— is likely using Dr. Whipker’s research on growth regulators.

SNA Honors Eelco H. Tinga, Jr. for Lifetime Achievement NCNLA member Eelco Henry Tinga, Jr., of Tinga Nursery in Castle Hayne, NC, is the recipient of the 2016 Slater Wight Memorial Award from the Southern Nursery Association (SNA). Considered a lifetime achievement, the award is presented to an individual in recognition of his or her contributions to the advancement of the industry in the South and to the welfare of the SNA. A third-generation North Carolina nurseryman, Tinga has been active in the industry most of his life. He was SNA president in 2009 and remained on its board through 2014— serving a total of 11 years. Many other organizations have benefitted from his leadership. Tinga served as Chairman of the Board of the NC Landscape Contractor Registration Board, and as president of the NC Association of Nurserymen (in 1988 and again in 2001), Cape Fear Plant Professionals, New Hanover County Farm Bureau and the International Plant Propagator’s Society-Southern North America Region.

NC-DOT plant inspector Kent Kolbe retired on Sept. 1. Unsure whether someone else would pick up his duties —which included performing nursery plant inspections — he offered growers and nursery operators this advice:

A message to growers and nursery operators

Protection, through ACE, manual processes will be streamlined and automated, paper will be eliminated, and the trade community will be able to more easily and efficiently comply with U.S. laws and regulations.

Over the longer term, there are obvious benefits to this modernization and streamlining effort. But in the near term, the trade community is very concerned with potential delays and confusion. This is especially true given the perishability of plant-related imports.

Inspections help insure the DOT planting contractor purchases plants that will not be rejected by the onsite inspector. I also assist the DOT designers with knowing stock availability and using plant specifications that conform to the plant TYPE listed in the American Standard for Nursery Stock (ASNS).

If plants are not inspected at the nursery, growers need to know they are supplying stock that will meet all the specifications in the contract required of the contractor. Often, plants are rejected because the contractor did not inform the grower of all the required specifications.

Supplying plants that meet these specifications is ultimately the DOT contractor’s responsibility, however far too often failure results in a nursery’s monetary loss. For this reason, keep in mind the ASNS are minimum standards. DOT projects will often specify much higher standards such as matched specimens. Unless the specifications indicate reforestation, class two plants should not be considered.

To help prevent plants from being rejected, I suggest growers who plan to supply plant material for a DOT project actually see or confirm ALL the specifications for those plants. To make plant specifications available per each project, I am asking the DOT Divisions to have an electronic copy of just the plant list taken from the contract. This separate list should be distributed with the contract bid package and used by the installation contractors to obtain plant quotes from the nurseries prior to submitting their bids. This list should include quantity, cultivar, size and any other plant specifications.

Of course this process will not insure the specifications will always be realistic. Today, most of the DOT planting designs are being out sourced to multiple private firms which means multiple designers drafting plans. The possibility still exists where occasionally we may observe plans with unreasonable specifications or that do not conform with the ASNS. Hopefully, with DOT personnel monitoring the contracts, and through better communications between the growers, contractors and designers, we can prevent unnecessary and costly mistakes.

I cannot begin to express how much I will miss meeting with the many nursery owners and staff to review their current plant availability and future stock. The NC Nursery men and women have always been most helpful and understanding. I have learned a lot from these folks and I certainly hope our paths will cross again. I am always available. Please find my contact information below.

Thanks and keep on growing quality stock!

Kent Kolbe, NC-DOT plant inspector FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 41

BEST PRACTICES

-

-

By Jason Goldberg International speaker, trainer, & coach

Jake A. Parrott Insurance Agency, Inc. 2508 N. Heritage Street P.O. Box 3547 Kinston, NC 28502

Toll Free:

Telephone: 252-523-1041

1-800-PARROTT

Fax 252-523-0145

1-800-727-7688

E-Mail: mparrott@parrottins.com Website: www.parrottins.com

Serving You Since 1937

42 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

”O

ur state of mind, our openness to possibilities, to see the reality of a situation without filters, are the keys to finding creative solutions without having our emotions hijacked,” said author and trainer Jason Goldberg.

Dealing with a challenge is easier and more effective when you approach it from a calm, positive mindset.

“When you come from a place of relaxed, high-spirited and even playful energy — instead of one driven by anger or anxiety — you make decisions more quickly and get better results,” he said.

Getting to that more productive state of mind probably doesn’t come naturally, and moving there when you’re in the middle of a crisis can be a challenge in itself.

To better understand his thinking, we came up with possible challenges a green industry business owner might face and asked JG to apply his self-leadership principles. Some of his answers appeared in the summer issue of NLN. Here’s more of what he had to say:

SCENARIO 1: It’s a tight labor market. Everybody’s scrambling to find and keep good workers. Some competitors actually drive up to a site, ask how much people are getting paid, up the offer and hire them away on the spot. How do you prevent employees from jumping ship?

Applying the Principles of Self-Leadership - Part II

JG: I don’t believe you can “lead” others to be a certain way, I also believe that trying to prevent employees from leaving is an egocentric waste of our powerful imagination and creativity.

When I worry that people sometimes leave one job for another simply for more money, I am in their business.

Doing something to prevent them from leaving is being in their business.

When I am a prisoner to thinking about my competitors being unethical and stealing my employees, once again (you guessed it) — I am in their business.

And when I am in everyone else’s business— my employees, my competitors— who is running MY business? And I mean both the business where I employ people and the business of my own life force — my creative energy, my personal responsibility to do what I can control.

In a way, I’m being unethical in that because I have a responsibility to focus my caring, attention and creativity on supporting my current employees, my customers, my stakeholders and my family and yet I am sending all of that energy over to my competitors and the people who left me for a few bucks.

Jason Goldberg is a geek turned entrepreneur, turned international speaker, trainer, coach and co-host of the The Not-So-Serious Life Web TV Show. His simple but powerful training has helped thousands of individuals and businesses overcome challenges and find fresh opportunities.

He’s bringing his transformational presentation to Green & Growin’ 2017.

If it is starting to sound ridiculous, that means you are getting it!

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 43

INDUSTRY RESEARCH “What if you converted even five percent of your fear of losing your employees into five percent more ways to creatively support and engage them? Your relationships and connection with your team (and your customers) is arguably the only real competitive advantage you have.”

Imagine if you slowed everything down and stopped worrying about the employees who left, the competitors who “stole” them from you, the “tight” labor market or that you won’t be able to find qualified talent to hire.

Imagine if you started doubting your doubts?

What if it’s true that the labor market is better than ever for the right company?

What if you poured all of the energy wasted on being in everyone else’s business into creating an environment where people are so engaged with you as an owner, leader or manager, so inspired by how you show up in the world, by how you support them and their growth (even if it means going to a competitor)? What if people see you’re completely un-rattled by outside circumstance?

What if you converted even five percent of your fear of losing your employees into five percent more ways to creatively support and engage them?

Your relationships and connection with your team (and your customers) is arguably the only real competitive advantage you have.

SCENARIO 2: You lose a big client — a large and long-standing chunk of business. How do you reassess and move forward?

JG: I would ask myself “what can we learn from this?”

When you see the “loss” of a client as the perfect time to see where what you have built can be even stronger than it already is, great things can be born. Run an “instant replay” to see what you did really well and what you could have done more effectively (not as an exercise in self-sabotage, criticism, blame, shame or guilt, just an opportunity to improve).

Taking purposeful, relaxed time with your team to discuss what it means to have such a big chunk of revenue coming from one client,

and whether this is a practice you want to continue, could present a huge shift in the focus of future business development.

Sitting with your team to see if there is a more profitable way to service customers —instead of relying on the volume of a single client — may reveal that this one large piece of business was actually stifling the overall growth of the company or the satisfaction of the smaller clients you were serving.

Looking Outside the Box for Solutions to Boxwood Blight

It is also a great opportunity to address the flow of communication, attention and agreements (as opposed to expectations) throughout the company. Where could the relationship and communication with this client have been clearer? Ask yourselves:

How could we have known about this client’s concerns in order to address them and keep their business, or have enough of a heads-up to find other business that would fill the gap should they leave?

When did we realize that everything was running on auto-pilot, business as usual, just re-signing the same contract every year, without sitting down with the client to see how their goals, priorities or challenges may have shifted?

Lastly, know that the conversation is never over. If they were a happy client in the past and you were blindsided with them leaving, let them know that you understand why they would take their business elsewhere. If you don’t understand, find out — from a place of curiosity, not as a tactic to save them as a client. Wish them well, and follow-up with meaningful correspondence (not generic “check-ins”) going forward.

Pro-activity and seeing where even the most secure client engagements could be given extra purposeful love and attention (something I call “client astonishment” – going far above and beyond the simple, expected “customer service”) is imperative to business growth and is the sure sign of a Self-Leader at the helm of the company.

F

irst detected in the U.S. in 2011, boxwood blight (BB) now has been found in both nursery and landscape settings in at least 22 states. Two closely related fungi, Calonectria pseudonaviculata and C. henricotiae, cause the blight on three plants: boxwood (Buxus), Pachysandra and sweet box (Sarcococca).

Since 2012, BB research has been supported through the Horticulture Title of the Farm Bill, Section 10007. In FY 2016, this funding exceeded $486,000. It supports research collaborations among IR-4, the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), Cornell University, Hood College, Oregon State University, North Carolina State University (NCSU), Virginia Tech (VT) and USDA-ARS. The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI), a leading force in the boxwood blight fight, continues to monitor, support and communicate about BB research to the industry. Those activities have been heavily focused on management measures.

Sanitation, Disinfection

Sanitation and disinfection are two critical components of all disease control programs. Soil in nursery beds and benches can harbor BB microsclerotia, overwintering structures in dead leaves that will be viable for years.

Several commercially available sanitizers, such as ethanol and bleach, were evaluated for their efficacy

against microsclerotia in lab studies. Ethanol was very effective in Dr. Nina Shishkoff’s (USDA-ARS) trials and completely killed conidia in leaf debris in studies conducted by Norm Dart, VT. Studies at CAES have shown bleach to be effective against BB spores as well.

By Jennifer Gray, Horticultural Research Institute

Mulching

Mulching can either help or hinder development of a plant disease, depending on the system. When it comes to BB, mulch theoretically should reduce disease development by reducing pathogen dispersal via rain splash (a primary cause of BB spread). Researchers at VT are investigating the potential mitigation of BB using various mulches.

Studies are being conducted in operational nurseries and residential landscapes to best gauge impact on disease development.

Fungicides

Few data exist on what fungicides best control BB. Dr. Jim LaMondia at CAES is comparing commercially available products and has identified some that are effective. A number of products were highlighted for their control activity, including pyraclostrobin and propiconazole. Both products have demonstrated good preventive control. Propiconazole, in particular, shows promise for early curative control. In fact, most triazole fungicides (also known as DMI’s) control BB preventively, as do preventive sprays of chlorothalonil. Always consult current product labels before applications.

Calonectria pseudonaviculata spores

The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI), founded in 1962, has provided more than $7 million in funds to research projects covering a broad range of production, environmental, and business issues important to the green industry. Nearly $11 million is committed to the endowment by individuals, corporations and associations. For more information about HRI, its grant-funded research, or programming, visit hriresearch.org or contact Jennifer Gray at 614.884.1155.

44 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

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INDUSTRY RESEARCH

Rain Gardens: The “Natural” Way to Remove Storm Water Pollution

Left: Blighted leaves and distinct black stem cankers caused by BB. Right: Characteristic circular, black lesions caused by the BB fungus.

Biological Controls

Dr. JoAnne Crouch, USDA-ARS, and Dr. Chuan Hong, VT, are screening large numbers of microorganisms in the hopes of finding candidates for biological control of BB. Endophytes, microorganisms that live in or on a plant without causing disease, have been identified associated with boxwood leaves and roots. Often biological control agents have complex interactions with plants, so this work can be tedious and time consuming.

Heat Therapy

Thermal inactivation, or heat therapy, has been used successfully in the past to eliminate pathogens from woody propagated plant tissue. Dr. Marc Cubeta’s lab at NCSU is conducting experiments to examine the response of C. pseudonaviculata and boxwood varieties to treatment with hot water to manage BB during propagation.

Boxwood dying from the bottom up, from BB. Note black cankers and defoliation

After exposure to hot water at 47.5 °C (117.5°F), conidia are either killed or impaired in their ability to cause infection. Preliminary results suggest that certain boxwood varieties are still able to root after exposure to these temperatures. Several varieties are being screened, and studies are ongoing to determine whether the pathogen can be eliminated from infected cuttings in this manner.

Other Options

A breeding program to identify disease resistant varieties and exploration into fungicide sensitivity are two other key components of this collaboration.

Pseudonaviculata white sporulation

46 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

Close-up of the underside of a leaf shows the orangey sporulation of Volutella buxi and the white sporulation of C. pseudonaviculata, for comparison

AmericanHort and its research affiliate, the Horticultural Research Institute, supported funding of this research through the Farm Bill Section 10007. This collaboration is coordinated by the IR-4 Program, a USDA-sponsored entity to increase the specialty crop industry’s access to labeled pest management products. AmericanHort will present a webinar series later this year to discuss this research in greater detail.

North Carolina State University horticulture professor Helen Kraus said in order for rain gardens to be accepted by consumers in their home landscapes, the plants have to beautify and add value to the landscape. Photos courtesy of Kimberly Moore, University of Florida

T

he U.S. Geological Survey reports that only 2.5 percent of all Earth’s water is fresh water. Almost all fresh water is locked up in ice (68.7 percent) and in the ground (30.1 percent). Just over 1.2 percent of all fresh water is surface water.

With concerns about the availability and quality of water, more municipalities are looking to protect this limited natural resource. Legislation and regulations to protect fresh water sources are increasing.

With funding from the Horticultural Research Institute, North Carolina State University horticulture professor Helen Kraus is studying how rain gardens can be used to protect fresh water sources from storm water runoff.

She said all segments of the horticulture industry, from growers to end users, face the same problems with water.

Polluted Runoff

By David Kuack

“We all have to have water to grow plants well and it has to be good quality water,” Kraus said. “Rain gardens are a device that can help to remove pollutants from storm water runoff. As rainfall runs across the hardscapes of the urban environment it picks up nutrient pollution, including nitrogen, phosphorus and metals like iron, manganese and copper. It also picks up soil sediment that carries nutrients with it. Storm water usually goes into a storm drain which carries that water directly into an open water source and pollutes that water source.”

Rain gardens are designed to intercept water runoff generated from rainfall. Pollutants are removed as it filters through the garden and the runoff enters underground water reserves in a clean state.

NCNLA, as well as the Horticultural Research Institute, has funded research by NCSU professor Helen Kraus to identify alternative substrate components and additional plants for use in rain gardens.

Since 1979, the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association has provided over $1 million in funding to research, endowment and program activities at NC State University. This industry research, in part supported by NCNLA’s member dues premiums (silver, gold and platinum) and successful fundraising events throughout the year, demonstrates the effectiveness that private-sector collaboration with a world class public institution can provide. This is just one example of how NCNLA has partnered with NC State to provide solutions for green industry businesses here in North Carolina.

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 47

Better Substrates

Kraus said when a rain garden is being constructed, the existing native soil is removed creating a depression or pit in the landscape. The depression, which is typically about four feet deep, is filled with an engineered substrate that is designed to have quick water infiltration.

“During a rain event, large volumes, literally hundreds of thousands of gallons of water, can enter the substrate,” she said. “The substrate is designed to slow the rate of percolation or movement down through the rain garden.”

As rainfall runs across the hardscapes of the urban environment it picks up nutrient pollution and soil sediment that carries nutrients with it. Storm water usually goes into a storm drain which carries that water directly into an open water source.

“During a rain event, large volumes, literally hundreds of thousands of gallons of water, can enter the substrate,” she said. “The substrate is designed to slow the rate of percolation or movement down through the rain garden.”

The substrate should be biologically rich “with a wide array of beneficial fungi, bacteria and other microorganisms that break down the pollutants in the water,” Kraus said. Some rain garden substrates contain pine bark as their organic matter component. “Pine bark does not bring a lot of this microflora to the substrate,” she said. “The water slowly inoculates the substrate with microflora over time.”

The nursery industry needs pine bark as a growing media component. Kraus’ research seeks to identify a better source of organic matter to replace pine bark.

“Compost, such as yard waste, naturally brings the microflora with it,” she said. “Microflora develop during the composting process. Compost is a better source of organic matter for the chemical reactions that have to occur in order to break down storm water pollutants.”

plants. The ones that will work well, the industry is already growing.”

Although some nurseries may specialize in producing rain garden plants, the biggest issue is identifying the plants. “Nurseries want to know that kind of information because they have landscapers asking them all of the time, ‘What is this plant and where and how can it be used?’ Unfortunately, the nurseries don’t have the answers yet for those questions. In some cases, the landscapers may be ahead of the growers, because they are the ones installing the rain gardens.”

In order for rain gardens to be accepted by consumers in their home landscape, the plants are going to have to look good. “The plants are going to have to beautify and add value to the landscape,” Kraus said.

“The only way that can happen is if there is a diverse collection of plant material so there is interest to meet garden customers’ needs. That is what I am hoping to develop.”

Increasing Demand

Governments are driving the demand for rain gardens, Kraus said. “The demand is not necessarily generated because people want rain gardens. They’re having to comply with some kind of enforcement such as a government ordinance,” she said. “What we have to

work on is educating home consumers of the potential danger to water sources from home landscapes so they want to build rain gardens regardless of some government requirement. Rain gardens are most effective when everybody does a little bit of the process and there are a lot of rain gardens instead of having one rain garden in a 50-square-mile radius.”

Kraus believes more consumer education about rain gardens is needed at the retail level. “Consumers need to know that by putting in a rain garden they can have a drought-tolerant garden and remove water pollution from the environment,” she said.

“Consumers need to know that by putting in a rain garden they can have a drought-tolerant garden and remove water pollution from the environment.”

There is a fair amount of training going on around the country in regards to the installation of rain gardens.

Kraus said the extension service is a very good resource for rain garden information. A state’s water quality division is another source of information.

“You can’t build a rain garden like you build a normal garden. It’s a different concept,” she said. “You have to learn about rain garden components to really make them work.”

To learn more: Email Helen Kraus, helen_kraus@ncsu. edu; or contact HRI, (202) 789-2900, hriresearch.org.

David Kuack is a freelance writer for HRI

“Every municipality creates yard waste and many compost it,” said Kraus. “Yard waste compost could be a more effective substrate component and it will help to diminish the demand for pine bark that currently exists.”

Expanding Choices Researchers at North Carolina State University are studying the use of compost, including yard waste, as a better source of organic matter, to replace pine bark in rain garden substrates.

North Carolina State University horticulture professor Helen Kraus said she expects many of the plants currently produced by the nursery industry are going to be found to be very effective rain garden plants.

48 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | FALL 2016

For the HRI-funded rain garden research project, Kraus is studying four plant species: Panicum virgatum ‘Shenadoah,’ Monarda fistulosa, Itea virginica and Betula nigra ‘Dura Heat.’

“Over a combination of research projects I have looked at about 25 species,” Kraus said. “We are looking at a combination of trees, shrubs, ornamental grasses and herbaceous flowering perennials. The plants that we are studying would grow anywhere from northern Florida all the way into upper New York and westward until the environment becomes real dry. There might be a problem with some of these plants tolerating the drought conditions occurring in the Midwest.”

Kraus said many of the plants produced by the nursery industry are going to be found to be very effective rain garden plants. “Just as we have been able to promote plants that attract pollinators, many of those plants were already being grown by the nursery industry,” she said. “We only had to identify them as good pollinator plants. I think a similar situation exists for rain garden

FALL 2016 | NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES | 49

Welcome New Members!

As of October 4, 2016

State Type of Membership

Member Name

Organization Name

William Lester, III Buddy Ritchie

City

State

Type of Membership

Central Piedmont Charlotte Community College

NC

Government/ Educator

Piedmont Landscaping Inc

NC

Regular Individual

Member Company

City

Apostrophe Gardens llc

Chapel Hill NC

Regular

Darden's Nursery

Clinton

NC

Regular

The NC Arboretum

Asheville

NC

Regular

Twin Oaks of Fayetteville LLc

Fayetteville NC

Regular

Bianca Beuschlein

Wildwood Timbers & Landscape

Burlington

NC

Regular

John Parsons

Student

Carlton

OR

Regular Affiliate

North Carolina A&T Vale State University

NC

Mineral Springs Ornamentals SRW Products

Princeton

MN

Regular Affiliate

Theresa Williams

NC State University

NC

Student

NLN CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Richfield

Jacksonville NC

Raleigh

Student

Advertisers’ Index Bennett's Creek Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Cam Too Camellia Nursery, Inc. . . . . . . . . . 50

NCNLA Events 2016 CPP Test Dates: October 20 – Greenville, NC October 28 – Fayetteville, NC

January 16 - 20, 2017 Green & Growin’ Sheraton Four Seasons Hotel – Education Greensboro Coliseum – Marketplace Greensboro, NC 27403 (919) 816-9119 GreenandGrowin.com

National Events October 19 – 21, 2016 LANDSCAPES 2016 (In conjunction with GIE + EXPO) 937 Phillips Lane Louisville, Kentucky 40209 gie-expo.com

November 30 – December 2 New England GROWS Boston Convention & Exhibition Center 915 Summer Street Boston, MA 02210 newenglandgrows.org

December 5 – 9, 2016 2016 Irrigation Show & Education Conference Las Vegas Convention Center 3150 Paradise Road Las Vegas, Nevada 89109 • Irrigation Show | December 7 – 8 • Education Conference | December 5 – 9 irrigationshow.org

Cardinal Turf & Ornamental Inc. . . . . . . . . 2, 4 Carolina Bark Products, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Casey Nursery, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Darden's Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Fair View Nursery, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Gossett's Landscape Nursery, Inc. . . . . . . . 29 Gra-Mac Irrigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

January 11 – 13, 2017 MANTS 2017

Hawksridge Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Baltimore Convention Center One West Pratt Street Baltimore, MD 21201 mants.com

Johnston County Nursery Marketing Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

South Carolina Horticulture Industry (SCHI) Trade Show and Seminars February 1 - 3, 2017 Myrtle Beach Convention Center Myrtle Beach, SC 29579 (803) 743-4284 scnla.com

February 6 – 10, 2017 PROGreen EXPO Colorado Convention Center 700 14th St. Denver, Colorado 80202 PROGreenexpo.com

Jake A. Parrott Insurance Agency . . . . . . . 42

Kirk Davis Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Low Falls Wholesale Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 MANTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 OHP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Old Courthouse Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Parker Bark Co., Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Pender Nursery, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover Plantworks Nursery, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Proven Winners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Sampson Nursery, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 SCNLA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Signature Horticultural Services . . . . . . . . 38 SiteLight LD, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

For the latest events, please visit ncnla.com

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North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc. 968 Trinity Road Raleigh, NC 27607

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PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PA I D Raleigh, NC Permit # 2255