Nursery & Landscape Notes Winter 2023

Nursery & Landscapenotes

Published by

North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc.

968 Trinity Road, Raleigh, NC 27607

NCNLA Staff

Richard Lawhun Executive Vice President

Katie Rodrigues Director of Events & Education

Kathryn Stansbury Director of Business Development

Wendi Doak Director of Marketing & Communications

Rayna Bailey Office Manager

Nursery & Landscape Notes is published quarterly by the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc. (NCNLA), covering news, research, education and business in the nursery and landscape industries. The publication is distributed to approximately 825 horticulture producers, landscape professionals and industry suppliers. Nursery & Landscape Notes is provided as a member service.

2023 NCNLA Board of Directors

Tim Johnson, II President

Tim Johnson Landscaping Statesville, NC

Ariel Montanez

Vice President, Secretary/ Treasurer

Pender Nursery

Garner, NC

Kevin Cagle

Past President

Greenthumb Nursery, LLC

Ether, NC

Michael Gossett

Gossett’s Landscape Nursery Inc.

High Point, NC

Eric Mangum

Caterpillar

Clayton, NC

Dana Massey

Plantworks Nursery

Rougemont, NC

Advertising

NCNLA EVENTS

»

Summer Educational Summit

June 15, 2023

McKimmon Conference and Training Center NC State University

Raleigh, NC

www.ncnla.com/SES

Robert Cagle Memorial Golf Tournament

June 16, 2023

Green & Growin’ 24

January 15-19, 2024

Greensboro, NC

www.greenandgrowin.com

INDUSTRY EVENTS

AmericanHort Cultivate

July 15 – 18, 2023

Columbus, OH

www.cultivateevent.org

Jonathan Schwarz Pender Pines Garden Center Hampstead, NC

Ed Snyder Greenleaf Services Linville, NC

Trey Warrick Scottree & Shelby Nursery, Inc. Shelby, NC

Educational Advisors

Jodi Riedel NC State University Raleigh, NC

Justin Snyder Alamance Community College Graham, NC

For advertising inquiries and publication schedule, please contact Wendi Doak at wdoak@ncnla.com or 919-819-9119, ext. 1002.

The inclusion of products or brand names in this publication is not an endorsement by the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association.

Mission: To provide essential value to our members through education, marketing and advocacy.

Vision: To promote and protect the interests of North Carolina’s green industry.

Connect with NCNLA facebook.com/NCNurseryandLandscapeAssociation twitter.com/tweet_ncnla instagram.com/ncnla ncnla.com | BuyNCPlants.com | GreenandGrowin.com

Lochmere Golf Club

Cary, NC

www.ncnla.com/GOLF

Certified Plant Professional Exam

June 30, 2023

Mills River, NC

Oct. 6, 2023

Wilson, NC

Jan. 15, 2024

Green & Growin’ 24 Greensboro, NC www.ncnla.com/CPP

JoCoPlants Show

August 16, 2023

NC State Fair Grounds

Raleigh, NC

www.jocoplants.com

ELEVATE

September 10-13, 2023

Dallas, TX

www.landscapeprofessionals. org/elevate

Helleborus x ericsmithii

‘COSEH 790’

Helleborus Gold Collection®

Shooting Star®

Lenton Rose

Height: 15-18 Inches

Spread: 18-22 Inches

Cover photo and description by Dana Massey, Plantworks Nursery. www.plantworks.com

Many Thanks for a Wonderful Year!

My role as president came to an end at this year’s annual member meeting at Green & Growin’ 23, where I passed the gavel on to our new president, Tim Johnson II. Looking back over my tenure, I would like to thank you all for your support this past year. I gained a tremendous amount of knowledge, and serving on the board and as NCNLA president allowed me to see everything that goes on behind the scenes to ensure that our association continues to grow and thrive. I wouldn’t trade anything for my time spent serving our great

I am very pleased to see that Green & Growin’ continued to come back strong in 2023, following the COVID-related obstacles we’ve experienced over the past few years. This year we had a great turnout for our educational classes and a lively crowd at the marketplace. There were also a few new features at Green & Growin’ this year, including our first annual President’s Reception, which welcomed Tim Johnson as president and celebrated NCNLA’s past presidents. The reception included food, beverages, an ice cream bar, a photo booth and our first annual cornhole tournament, which helped raise money for the NCNLA scholarship fund. Taking place in the Sheraton’s Victoria Ballroom, the event gave us an opportunity to network, enjoy some great conversation and have a few good laughs. Thank you to all who attended and helped make it a success—we look

Speaking of Green & Growin’ and the association as a whole, we would not be able to continue to do what we do successfully without the generous support of our sponsors. Thank you all sincerely for your continued support. Finally, I would like to thank our board members and the NCNLA staff for their hard work and dedication—without their continued commitment, my year as president certainly would not have gone quite so smoothly. I’m excited for what the year ahead has in store, and I’m sure we are all in good hands with Tim serving as our new president, as well as the board members and staff

Thank you all again for the opportunity to serve you this past year!

Wow, What a Show!

If Green and Growin’ 23 is any indication of what is to come, we have an exciting year in store for us! As most of you know, Green and Growin’ is our flagship event of the year. Attendance was strong at this year’s show, from the education program to the trade show, and there was a feeling of excitement in the air. I want to thank NCNLA staff for raising the bar—not just for this specific event, but for the green industry in North Carolina as a whole. Our team truly put together a lineup of keynote speakers and education presentations that could rival any green industry show in the country. Staff also did an excellent job organizing a vibrant trade show, with more than 300 vendors for our members to meet and interact with. In speaking to some of our event guests from other parts of the country, I was reminded how fortunate we are to have a strong, active association.

In 2023, I am looking forward to another year of great organization events like the Robert Cagle Memorial Golf Tournament, our scholarship fundraiser. The Summer Educational Summit will also be a great opportunity to learn from some of the brightest in the industry and earn continuing education credits at the same time.

If I may, I would also like to take the opportunity to tell you a little bit about myself, my family and my story. My journey in the green industry was an unlikely one from the start, and this not-so-little landscape company of ours was never really the plan. I started with humble ambitions: I wanted a vehicle. That was it. I was looking for a way as a young teenager to make enough money to buy a vehicle to drive to school, so I started mowing yards on our street with Dad’s Murray riding lawn mower. I eventually earned enough to buy that vehicle (a 1994 Jeep Wrangler, which I still own!), but it didn’t stop there. At some point along the way, Dad (Tim Sr.) retired and got bored. However, if you know him

at all, you probably know he isn’t one to sit idle for long. So, he started mowing a few lawns as well. Eventually we started working together, made a few equipment upgrades and decided to co-found Tim Johnson Landscaping.

A career in the green industry still wasn’t the plan, though. I left for college, with a plan to play baseball and get a degree in engineering. The only part of the plan that made it through that first college stop was baseball. However, I also had a new girlfriend, Jenni, who is now my wife—the best thing to happen to me during that time. As I began to look at life, I realized that my passion wasn’t behind a computer screen, but rather out in the dirt. So, I transferred to North Carolina A&T University to pursue a degree in horticulture, and Jenni was crazy enough to follow me to Greensboro. Now we have two beautiful children, Eleanor and “TJ” (Tim III).

By 2009, it was Dad and I running the business, and we had just one part-time employee. Since then, we have built an incredible team of more than 100 people, who give me the opportunity to do what I love every day and volunteer my time with organizations like the NCNLA. In addition to working with my father as a business partner, I now also have the chance to work with Joyce, my mother (so much for retirement, Mom!). These days, the first-class team at Tim Johnson Landscaping provides landscape maintenance and installation in the North Carolina Piedmont and Foothills areas, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us.

I would be remiss if I did not take the opportunity to thank our membership for allowing me the opportunity to act as NCNLA president for this year and serve on the NCNLA Board of Directors. It is an honor to serve, and I am honored and humbled to have this opportunity. During my tenure, I promise to give my best to the association and its members to continue and grow NCNLA’s long, impressive track record of success. I look forward to working with all of you to continue to build the strength and success of this great association!

Tim Johnson II Tim Johnson Landscaping Statesville, NC

2023 robert cagle memorial golf tournament

Join

Friday, June 16, 2023

12:30 p.m. Shotgun Start

Registration opens May 1, 2023

Green & Growin’ Offers an Encouraging Start to 2023

Happy New Year! What a terrific start to 2023. I hope you were among the thousands of people who joined us in Greensboro for Green & Growin’ 23. The education sessions were exceptional; the keynote speakers were informative and thought-provoking; the Marketplace was colorful and jampacked with activity; and the inaugural President’s Reception was a cornucopia of eating, drinking and mingling.

It would be impossible for NCNLA staff to successfully organize and deliver a show of this magnitude without the assistance of a lot of people. While I cannot list everyone in this limited space, I do want to single out a few folks who helped make Green & Growin’ 23 an overwhelming success:

Richard “Rick” Lawhun NCNLA Executive Vice President

• Jamie Thomas, Chad Gragg, Shanon Spivey, Ariel Montanez, Landis Hall and everyone who assisted exhibitors in moving material into and/or out of the exhibit hall.

Rick• Skip Warrick and his traveling smoker for preparing a barbecue feast for the move-in/move-out crew on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, with the assistance of Mike Hudson, Rick Crowder and Mike Cabaniss.

• Cooperative Extension agents Sarah Christas, Rhiannon Goodwin, Taylor Jones, Danny Lauderdale, Sam Marshall, Carl Mitchell, Melinda Roberts and Leslie Rose, who volunteered their services throughout the event.

• The speakers and keynote presenters who shared their knowledge and insight on a variety of subjects.

• The Carolinas Irrigation Association, the North Carolina Sod Producers Association and the North Carolina Urban Forest Council, for developing the partner tracks.

• NCNLA board members, who took the time to visit every new exhibitor, express our thanks and welcome them to the show.

• Jerry Pittman and the student volunteers from Pitt Community College.

• Hilarie Blevins and the student volunteers from Sandhills Community College.

• Jason Davis, Tim Warren, Jennifer Bradley and the student volunteers from the University of Mount Olive.

• Donna Riddle and the student volunteers from Wilkes Community College.

• Green & Growin’ Partners, who sponsored a variety of items and/or events throughout the week.

• Staff at the Sheraton and Greensboro Coliseum, who anticipated our needs and exceeded our expectations at every turn.

• Green & Growin’ attendees, who saw value in the event and were understanding when we had to deal with the occasional hiccup, such as technology issues, overflow meeting rooms and long lines during registration.

Rayna Bailey, Wendi Doak, Katie Rodrigues, Kathryn Stansbury and I are extremely thankful for the participation and contributions of everyone who helped to make a complicated event run smoothly!

I hate to end on a negative note, but I do want to call out the half-dozen or so people who felt it necessary to berate hotel staff, coliseum staff, NCNLA staff or our volunteers. Being rude is never appropriate, and being rude to a student volunteer is especially egregious. This is a highly respected industry full of wonderful people, and I hate to think that the boorish behavior of a handful of people could ruin the event for anyone—especially a student volunteer who is attending an industry event for the first time.

Green & Growin’ 24 will be held Jan. 15-19, 2024, so make certain to block those dates on your calendar and plan to join us in Greensboro. Until then, stay well and stay passionate about the industry you love!

Piedmont Carolina Nursery and Landscaping

1867 Sandy Ridge Rd. Colfax, NC

Mark Peters President

In business

Since 1982

Number of employees 35

NCNLA member

Since 1984

Favorite offerings from NCNLA

The Green & Growin’ trade show for sure, plus networking opportunities with other green industry professionals and continuing education opportunities.

Five Minutes with Piedmont Carolina Nursery and Landscaping

How did you get into the business?

I inherited a green thumb and a strong work ethic from my mom and dad. After initially attending East Carolina University, I transferred to North Carolina State University and, like so many others, was greatly inspired by J.C. Raulston in the school’s horticulture program. I was also fortunate enough to meet an investor who helped launch our business financially.

What’s a typical day like for you and your staff?

Never a dull moment! Our fast-paced day typically involves answering the phone; sending emails and texts; having face-to-face meetings with nursery customers, suppliers, landscape clients and subcontractors; and, of course, working with our great team of employees.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career?

Working with our family of employees and working in the green industry for the past 40 years. Working with Doug Torn to co-found the North Carolina Green Industry Council as an umbrella advocacy group. Working with a dedicated group of people over many years to represent our industry and communicate with legislators in Raleigh and Washington, D.C., on issues important to the nursery, turf, landscape and other green industry organizations in North Carolina.

What is your company best known for?

A wide variety of container-grown plants, from unusual and hard-to-find plants to bread-and-butter plants that everyone knows and loves. I am very proud to be part of the North Carolina nursery industry, which has so many top-notch growers and so many friendly, honest people who generously share ideas, successes and failures.

What issues are you concerned about as a company in the green industry?

Like everyone else in our industry, I am concerned with promoting our industry and educating consumers on how important the plants and services we provide are to the environment and our economy. I’m also concerned with being able to attract adequate labor to manage, operate and grow our businesses. There are many others, but I’ll keep to those for now.

What have you gained from your involvement in NCNLA?

Tremendous friendships with so many great people—this industry is truly unique and wonderful!

What advice do you have for someone interested in or just starting out in the industry?

Join NCNLA, attend the Green & Growin’ trade show, enroll in the education program, explore all the training and certification programs available, and introduce yourself and ask lots of questions! This is a great industry, and there is room for anyone willing to work hard and find their passion!

Certified Plant Professional Update

On Jan. 16, during Green & Growin’ 23, more than 20 people sat for the Certified Plant Professional (CPP) exam at the Sheraton Greensboro at Four Seasons. Congratulations to the following individuals who earned their CPP designation.

Anna Burgess, Whole Foods Market

Sarah Hinshaw, Southeastern Community College

Jason Kuhn, University of North Carolina Wilmington

Grace MacDonald, Bland Landscaping Co. Inc.

Tyler Morris, Allscapes Custom Outdoor Services

Beverly Osborne, Pike Nurseries

Natasha Poteet, Bland Landscaping Co. Inc.

James Radcliff, SiteOne Landscape Supply

David Solmes, Cultivate Landscape LLC

Olivia Terrell, Biltmore

The North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association would also like to recognize the following professionals who recently renewed their CPP designations (as of Feb. 2, 2023):

Hadley Cheris, Tryon Palace

Aaron Costello, Town of Cary

Abraham Escobedo, Second Spring Lawn and Garden

Cindy Goula, Elon University

Caleb Hunt, Green Worx Landscaping & Outdoor Projects Inc.

Upcoming CPP Exams

• June 30, 2023: Mills River, NC

• Oct. 6, 2023: Wilson, NC

• Jan. 15, 2024: Green & Growin’ 24 in Greensboro, NC

For more information about the CPP program, to renew your CPP designation or to register for an upcoming exam, visit www.NCNLA.com/CPP or email education@ncnla.com.

WELCOME, NEW NCNLA MEMBERS!

ORGANIZATIONAL MEMBERS

Agape Lawn Company

Durham, NC

Air Pump USA

Indian Trail, NC

Allscapes Custom Outdoor Services

Rougemont, NC

Alta Mira Landscaping Inc

Durham, NC

AMS Triad Inc

Colfax, NC

Arbor Landscape and Irrigation, LLC

Pittsboro, NC

Aspen Outdoors

Middlesex, NC

Bethany Plants and Produce

Reidsville, NC

Birdsong Garden Consulting

Lewisville, NC

Element Outdoor Living

Wilmington, NC

Flat Creek Plant Farm

Weaverville, NC

Flatlands Insurance Group

Washington, NC

Gowan USA

Exton, PA

Leisure Time Lawn Care, LP

Charlotte, NC

Lynx Associates

Oakland, NJ

Mid-South Irrigation and Landscape

Lewisville, NC

Nature’s Select

Pinehurst, NC

NC State-Landscape

Construction Services

Raleigh, NC

Osprey Landscapes

High Point, NC

Power Equipment Distributors

Richmond, MI

Renfroe Valley Farms

Mills River, NC

Reynolda Gardens

Winston Salem, NC

Roundtree Companies

Charlotte, NC

Second Spring Lawn and Garden

Goldsboro, NC

Specialized Landscape Services

Sanford, NC

The Biltmore Company

Asheville, NC

T-Mobile for Business

Rolesville, NC

Turf Medic Lawn & Landscape

Wilmington, NC

Webb’s Landscape Solutions LLC

Middlesex, NC

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS

Adam Keener

Forsyth Country Club

Winston Salem, NC

Allen Fox

Town of Matthews

Matthews, NC

Amanda Wilkins

NC Cooperative Extension

Sanford, NC

Jeremiah Pilarski

Town of Siler City

Siler City, NC

Kyle Thomas

Town of Matthews

Matthews, NC

Roy Beecher

City of Jacksonville

Jacksonville, NC

Abraham Escobedo, Second Spring Lawn and Garden

Joshua Steven Sorrells, 47, of Canton, NC, passed away Dec. 23, 2022. Josh is survived by, and was a loving and devoted husband to, Tracey Taylor Sorrells. Josh spent his life pursuing his passion and doing what he loved. He was born to farm, and enjoyed spending time on his farm and nursery with the people he loved. A graduate of Pisgah High School in 1994 and North Carolina State University in 1996, Josh was the proud owner, with his wife and parents, of Cold Mountain Nursery in Canton.

Scan the QR code for Joshua’s full obituary, or view on the web at http://bit.ly/3DTmUmz

John H. Ritchie, 70, of Troy, NC, passed away Feb. 4, 2023. Born in Montgomery County on June 25, 1952, he was the son of the late Harold and Margie Phaff Ritchie. John loved his Savior, Jesus Christ, and his family — and especially being a “pawpaw” to Beau, Lee and Theo. He also treasured time hunting, fishing and playing golf with Joseph and Jacob. He was always eager to help his family with yardwork and home projects, and he enjoyed hiking the trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway — for him a quiet time of appreciation for God’s handiwork. Each year he looked forward to family beach week and spent much time seeking out the “perfect” beach house. A graduate of West Montgomery High School and North Carolina State University, John was the previous owner of Greenthumb Nursery, a longtime NCNLA member and a beloved friend of the industry.

Scan the QR code for John’s full obituary, or view on the web at http://bit.ly/3jRkC0w

Board of Directors 2023

NCNLA Board of Directors

Officers

Tim Johnson, II President

Tim Johnson Landscaping Statesville, NC

Ariel Montanez

Vice President, Secretary/Treasurer Pender Nursery Garner, NC

Kevin Cagle Past President

Greenthumb Nursery, LLC

Ether, NC

Directors

Michael Gossett Gossett’s Landscape Nursery Inc. High Point, NC

Eric Mangum Caterpillar Clayton, NC

Dana Massey Plantworks Nursery

Rougemont, NC

Jonathan Schwarz Pender Pines Garden Center

Hampstead, NC

Ed Snyder Greenleaf Services

Linville, NC

Trey Warrick Scottree & Shelby Nursery, Inc. Shelby, NC

Educational Advisors

Jodi Riedel NC State University Raleigh, NC

Justin Snyder Alamance Community College

Graham, NC

NCNLA welcomed three new directors, one new education advisor, and announced two new officers for the 2023 Board of Directors at the annual meeting, held during Green & Growin’ 23.

Three current board members were appointed to new positions: Tim Johnson II as president, Ariel Montanez as vice president, secretary and treasurer, and Kevin Cagle as past president.

Tim is president of Tim Johnson Landscaping Inc. in Statesville, NC. With a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental horticulture from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, his passion for plants and landscaping inspire his standards for fairway-quality turf building. Tim contributes largely to the company’s specialty operations, such as turf management, hardscapes, irrigation, lighting, landscape design and installation.

Ariel has been the general manager of Pender Nursery since July 2013. Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Germany, he served eight years in the U.S. Marine Corps before starting in the green industry. He has a business degree from Campbell University and previously served as president of the Johnston County Nursery Marketing Association.

In addition to the newly elected officers, four new individuals have joined the board.

Eric Mangum will complete the final year of the three-year term for Ariel Montanez, who moved into the officer track. Eric is the product and application specialist with Caterpillar in Clayton, NC. He has been with Caterpillar more than 25 years in many different capacities, including as a global buyer; as a territory field representative covering the Dakotas, Minnesota and Iowa; and in several marketing roles. Eric is a native of Harnett County, NC, and received his Bachelor of Science degree in communications from Appalachian State University.

Michael Gossett, who will serve a three-year term, is vice president of Gossett’s Landscape Nursery Inc. in High Point, NC. Michael has been with Gossett’s for seven years and is the third generation in his family to operate the nursery. He graduated from NC State University in 2007 with an associate’s degree in agricultural business and horticulture.

Jonathan Schwarz, also beginning his three-year term, is the owner of Pender Pines Garden Center in Hampstead, NC. He helped start the company in 1996 alongside his parents, Gary and Sharon Schwarz. Jon purchased the company from his parents in 2018 and since has continued to expand the nursery and greenhouse production to more than five acres. He received his Bachelor of Science in horticultural science from NC State University in 2002, with a concentration in landscape design.

Jodi Riedel joined the board as an educational advisor. Serving as senior horticulture lecturer and Agriculture Institute coordinator at NC State, Jodi provides instruction to the Agriculture Institute and four-year students. In addition, she advises students and works to connect them with resources and opportunities in horticulture careers. Jodi is also a co-advisor for the HortPack (the NC State University horticulture team), which competes annually at the National Collegiate Landscape Competition. She taught high school horticulture for 20 years at Wakefield High School in Raleigh, NC, before coming to NC State University in 2021. A published author, she wrote the textbook, Horticulture Today, which is used around the country to teach horticulture at the high school level.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT »

Nursery & Landscape Notes is introducing you to the next generation of green industry professionals by featuring current and recent college students with plans to pursue careers in the field.

Michael McCarthy

Student Profile

Name: Michael McCarthy

Hometown: Willow Spring, NC College: North Carolina State University

Graduation dates: Spring 2022

Major/Area of Study: Associate’s degree in applied sciences, with a major in turfgrass management

Horticulture-Related Places You Have Worked/ Interned: Landgreen Landscaping, Reedy Creek Golf Course, SiteOne.

How did you discover horticulture?

I discovered horticulture and the amazing agriculture industry in high school through my agricultural science teacher, Ms. Moore, who inspired her students to pursue their interest in the field.

What were your most valuable experiences, either in school or from other exposure to the industry, and why?

My most valuable experience was placing first in the country for landscape maintenance operations in the 46th annual National Collegiate Landscape Competition, in which I represented NC State and my professors/peers. Another rewarding opportunity involved serving alongside my best friend as a guest speaker during an NC State class taught by Jodi Riedel, who told us we were the best speakers yet for her class. Being a part of FFA was also a valuable experience and helped mold me into the person I am becoming.

What were your favorite college classes, and why?

I could ramble on for a while about favorite classes—each one was special, and the professors taught with passion and provided me with whatever help I may have needed. One class that stands out in my mind, though, is the Landscape Maintenance class taught by Jodi Riedel. Her guidance opened up opportunities, boosted my confidence and really sparked my interest in this industry—she even helped me get the job I have now in nursery management at SiteOne. Her devotion to her students—and education in general—is remarkable.

What have you been up to since graduation?

I’m currently working in nursery management at SiteOne. I am learning

about more plants than I could have imagined. I also landscape on the side with my best friend, Mason Hills, who owns Landgreen Landscaping. In the future, I hope to have more opportunities to speak in front of students and continue to advocate for this industry.

What advice would you give to a student interested in the field?

I would say: Jump in now! This industry continues to grow, and the advancements in horticulture in just the past five years have been extraordinary. The people you’ll meet, the money you’ll make, and the places you’ll go in this industry will be well worth the effort.

Fun question: What is your favorite plant, and why?

My favorite plant has to be the the Hydrangea macrocarpa. While in bloom they can strike anyone’s attention. I also believe that if people gave out hydrangeas instead of roses, the world would be a better place.

Continuing Education requirements are waived for the first renewal. Your renewal will go towards the growth of the CPP Program to expand program offerings, communicate the importance of the designationto consumers and market the program to interested participants.

www.ncnla.com/CPP

AROUND THE INDUSTRY

Landscape Contractors’ Licensing Board

NCLCLB at Green & Growin’ 23

During the Marketplace at Green & Growin’ 23, held Jan. 19-20 in Greensboro, NC, the North Carolina Landscape Contractors’ Licensing Board (NCLCLB) was among the event’s many exhibitors. The Marketplace was well attended, and it was nice to see so many green industry professionals walking the trade show floor — thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hello and chat! During the show, several visitors expressed an interest to us in pursuing their landscape contractors’ license, since their customers are, more and more frequently, asking if they are licensed. This correlates with our experience at the NCLCLB office, where we have seen recent increases in both scheduled exams and purchases of study manuals.

Notably, while on-site at Green & Growin’ this year, we answered numerous questions concerning the licensure law, and we surprised a few of the questioners with potential violations they may not have considered. For example, one landscaper mentioned that he did only maintenance work, which, in his view, exempted him from needing a landscape contractors’ license — a widespread misconception that could potentially lead to problems. According to the law, if an individual or company provides lawn mowing, turf edging and debris-removal services (i.e., “mow-and-blow”) only, they are in fact exempt from licensure. However, if an individual or company provides any other landscape services in addition to mow-and-blow work, and the total cost for all services is

$30,000 or more a year at a job site, they are not exempt under the law (N.C.G.S.§ 89D) and must hold a valid North Carolina landscape contractors’ license.

Note that the exemption is for lawn mowing, turf edging and debris-removal services only — all other services such as planting, mulching, managing gardens, lawns, etc., are not considered maintenance and are not exempt from licensure. A more thorough explanation can be found on the NCLCLB website at www.nclclb. com. Not surprisingly, after learning of this provision in the law, our visitor purchased the study manuals!

Several landscapers who stopped by the NCLCLB booth commented that they have never pursued a license because all of their projects fall under the $30,000 threshold. However, these individuals were unaware that even quoting a job of $30,000 or more without a license is a violation of the law. They were also unaware that subsequent customer specification changes that increase the cost of a project beyond the $30,000 threshold would put the landscaper in violation of the law, even though the original project cost was under $30,000. Given the increased cost of materials, gas and other project-related materials, staying under the licensure threshold is probably a money-losing proposition. These particular guests to our booth were directed to the NCLCLB website to obtain license applications.

The real shocker to landscapers who visited with us at the show was finding out that if they are unlicensed

and carry out a job that costs more than $30,000, they may not get paid at all! In the North Carolina Supreme Court case Brady v. Fulghum, in which an unlicensed builder sued a homeowner for breach of contract, the court ruled that the homeowner did not have to pay the builder, even though the builder had “substantially complied” with the construction contract. The court reasoned that “a contract illegally entered into by an unlicensed general construction contractor is unenforceable by the contractor.”

While the courts have not yet applied this case to the practice of landscape contracting, two cases are currently before the judicial system, and it is possible the court may cite the ruling in Brady v. Fulghum as precedent and, using similar reasoning, rule that a customer in such a scenario does not have to pay an unlicensed landscaper. With that in mind, unlicensed landscapers may want to reconsider their indifference to getting a landscape contractors’ license.

The above are just a few examples of the value of attending events such as the Green & Growin’ trade show. If you aren’t continually learning, you aren’t growing — and you aren’t increasing your value to your customers. Also, if you aren’t a licensed landscape contractor, be aware that your competitors probably are! So be proud of your business, your work and your industry — earn your license, add the “Licensed Landscape Contractor” decal to your vehicles and let your customers know you are a professional landscape contractor!

North Carolina Irrigation Contractors’ Licensing Board

New NCICLB CE Category Offers Licensees More Learning Opportunities

The North Carolina Irrigation Contractors’ Licensing Board (NCICLB), began 2023 with a running start! Board Administrator Margaret Geiger and Special Project Manager Barbara Geiger represented the board at the Green & Growin’ 23 show, manning a booth on both educational days. The show was a great success, and the NCICLB booth received visits from numerous licensees, exam candidates and green industry members! Since more than one attendee brought up the topic of continuing education (CE) with us at the show, we’d like to go over that subject here and unveil some recent developments with our CE program.

Why is CE required?

The purpose of CE is to protect the public by ensuring that licensees have formal opportunities to upgrade and update their professional knowledge and skills. Since trends, technology, laws and products change continually, staying informed on the latest developments is of the utmost importance to protect the public and help maintain professionalism.

When the North Carolina Irrigation Contractors’ Licensing legislation was originally drafted, the authors believed that licensed industry contractors needed to remain current with new technology, so they included a requirement for 10 hours of CE annually. While 10 hours per year may be higher than for some other professions, that threshold is actually less than for many

others — in fact, some professions require up to 40 hours annually! NCICLB licensees must complete and report at least six hours of landscape and turf irrigation activities, as well as at least four hours of business activities.

New CE Category

The NCICLB recently introduced a new CE category, known as Education through Experience, which went into effect Jan. 1, 2023. The new category, which allows licensees to receive up to three hours of CE credit for irrigation-related work, was designed to give irrigation contractors credit for the valuable learning that takes place on the job. One hour of CE may be awarded for every 40 documented hours of irrigation construction and contracting-related work. Since a 40-hour workweek is generally considered a “normal” workweek, for these purposes that length of time was settled on as the equivalent of one hour of CE.

The 40 hours needed to qualify for CE in this category may be completed at any time throughout the year — they do not have to be fulfilled during a single week or any particular consecutive timeframe. However, hours will need to be documented in order to receive credit. To help licensees track hour calculation, the NCICLB has prepared a chart that includes a sample of what will be accepted and approved. Along with the chart, licensees will need to submit a completed affidavit, swearing to the

truth of hours submitted. The hour chart and affidavit are available on the NCICLB website at www.nciclb.org.

How are hours calculated?

One credit hour will be awarded for each 40 hours worked, with a threehour maximum of CE credit earned in this category per renewal. As part of the three-hour maximum, licensees may submit for EITHER two irrigation hours/one business hour OR one irrigation hour/two business hours (i.e., no more than two hours in either subcategory).

What kind of work counts for credit?

All irrigation-related work will be considered for credit (startups, winterizations, repair, maintenance, installation/building, design, estimating, sales, etc.). If you’re not sure whether a particular activity counts as credit, be sure to ask!

How are hours submitted for credit?

Licensees will submit Education through Experience CE credits as “self-directed” activities and attach supporting documentation. No matter what kind of work has been completed, documentation MUST be submitted.

If you have questions regarding CE or any aspect of licensure, please reach out to Margaret Geiger, NCICLB board administrator, at nciclbadmin@nciclb. org or (919) 872-2224.

The Latest Nursery Tools for Landscaping and Agriculture

By John Janes Landscaping Marketing Manager Caterpillar Building Construction Products Division

For wholesaler landscape operations, commercial landscapers and row crop farmers, the process of getting plants from one place to another often involves a great deal of manual labor — and with worker shortages so prevalent lately, such processes can present significant challenges. To address this issue, one of the topics we at Caterpillar covered at Green & Growin’ 23 involved the use of nursery tools to help make this type of work quicker and less labor-intensive.

Why Use Nursery Tools?

Readying row crops for sale or loading ornamental trees onto a truck at a wholesaler or can be time-consuming work, often requiring the manpower of several people to accomplish without damaging the plants. Nursery tools are designed to help by eliminating the need for some of that manpower, freeing up employees to work on different tasks and improving overall productivity. Nursery tools also can help maneuver plants more carefully, so they don’t get damaged during the moving process.

Types of Nursery Tools

Several different types of nursery tools are available to help you be more efficient on the job:

• Nursery forks: Compatible with compact wheel loaders, nursery forks are ideal for loading rows of plants. Unlike regular forks, nursery forks are angled to pick up a container or wrapped plant. They can also be swept at an angle to clamp down on plants and transport them without causing damage.

• Nursery grapples: Also compatible with compact wheel loaders, nursery grapples are especially useful when moving heavier plants like trees. Cut to the standard angle of how root bulbs are dug, grapple paddles can rotate left/right and up/down — which is handy, for example, when laying trees flat in a truck bed.

• Mulch buckets: For a landscape supply house, a mulch bucket can be a good addition to the fleet. Designed with a narrower profile, these buckets fit comfortably in the bed of a truck without causing damage, and are compatible with both skid steer loaders and compact wheel loaders.

How Might You Use These Tools in Your Operations?

A wholesaler could use nursery forks or a nursery grapple just about anywhere, from moving plants and pallets to loading trees in truck beds. Landscapers on commercial projects might use an auger to dig the proper hole for a plant, and then a fork to place it in the right spot. Arborists and farmers could use nursery forks and grapples to ready trees or other row crops for shipment.

In short, these versatile tools can be a big help on your job sites — especially if you’re dealing with labor shortage issues. Want to learn more about nursery tools? Check out the latest offerings from Caterpillar.

North Carolina School Update

The Arboretum at UMO: A Hidden Gem

The University of Mount Olive (UMO) is known for many things, with academic excellence and award-winning athletics near the top of the list. However, a lesser-known marvel sits on the south side of campus. Just past the soccer field and tennis courts lies the entrance to what is simply known as the Arboretum. First conceived of in 2012, this hidden treasure is an ever-changing work in progress featuring more than 150 plant varieties, along with tranquil areas that encourage rest and reflection.

From season to season, the three-acre Arboretum showcases a variety of color and splendor, with annuals and perennials sprinkled throughout its winding paths, as well as large rocks, sculptures and benches that add to its appeal. Agriculture students use the space as an educational learning lab to study plant varieties, and visitors regularly take advantage of the Arboretum’s peaceful environment for walking, thinking, reading and simply taking in nature’s beauty.

Below is an interview with Tim Warren, director of agricultural facilities operations at UMO. Warren’s interest, insight and instruction—coupled with hard work and perseverance—have in recent years helped shape a oncebarren section of the campus into a beautiful and everevolving destination.

Q. How did the Arboretum come about?

A. The idea for the Arboretum was born in 2012 from Dr. Sandy Maddox, dean of the School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences. As part of that brainstorm, the space was envisioned for use by agriculture classes for plant identification purposes and as a teaching tool, as well as a park-like space for the surrounding community to enjoy. When I started at UMO in fall 2014, I was asked to implement the plan.

Q. Who came up with the design?

A. The original design by Edith Chestnut, a professional landscape designer, was subdivided into formal, children’s, native and Japanese gardens. Since that initial phase, the basic design has been maintained, with some adaptations made to meet our specific needs.

Q. How has progress on the Arboretum unfolded since then?

A. In 2013, the area was cleared, and walkways and irrigation lines were installed. In early 2015, some of the larger trees and beds were established, along with turf grasses. That same year, student-constructed benches were added to the space. Plantings continue to take place annually, and the space is forever a work in progress, as plants continually come and go.

Q. How many plant varieties are grown in the Arboretum?

A. The Arboretum features at least 150 plant varieties. Our plan is ultimately to have specimens of all the plants that grow in our climate and are included on the Certified Plant Professional (CPP) list, which changes every few years as the green industry introduces new plant materials for landscape use.

Q. What is the main goal for the Arboretum?

A. Our primary focus is educating our students on the identification and care of various plant material. The Arboretum allows students and student workers to develop skills that are necessary to be successful in the plant industry. Each student who has worked in the space has left his or her own mark, so the Arboretum serves as a true point of pride for the UMO community. The secondary goal of the space is to create and maintain a pleasing outdoor area in which visitors can exercise and relax.

Q. Which classes utilize the Arboretum, and what are they learning there?

A. The main course that uses the space is AGE 321: Plant Identification Utilization and Management, which prepares

students to take NCNLA’s CPP test, during which students answer 100 written questions and then must identify at least 70 of 120 plants in order to be certified. Another class, AGE 240: Introduction to Horticulture, uses the Arboretum for instruction on how to prune, plant and care for plants in the landscape setting.

Q. What are some of the Arboretum’s unique aspects?

A. A variety of large rocks have been installed as accents along the paths. There’s also an arbor—built by students in my AGE 150: Wood and Metal Technology class—featuring vines that bloom in fall and spring, and providing a favorite spot for students to relax out of the sun. The Arboretum’s pergola, also constructed by students, will eventually be covered with wisteria to provide another shady resting space. The Zen garden and Tori gate define the Japanese garden. We rake the rocks to give it a pattern similar to those in Zen gardens I have seen firsthand during trips to Kyoto, Japan. The Katakana writing on the Tori gate sign translates as “Mount Olive University.” My favorite place is what I call the “thinking rock” just outside of the Zen garden, where I can sit and reflect on things of concern or joy. We also recently added a “fire ant” sculpture in the butterfly garden area—this novelty item seems to be a conversation piece for visitors of all ages.

Q. How do you showcase the differing plant varieties each season?

A. The plants put on a show all by themselves. Some flowers are short-lived, while others stay around for a while. There is usually something blooming—or close to blooming—throughout the year. The cherry blossoms were beautiful in 2022.

Q. How often do students work in the Arboretum?

A. It just depends. This semester I have eight student workers available four days a week. They do most of the work in the Arboretum and also work in our shop and fitness garden. Student workers are the key to development and maintenance of the Arboretum. Their main responsibilities are weeding and mulching beds; weed eating; cutting grass; and planting, watering and pruning plants.

Q. What advice do you offer to individuals thinking about visiting the Arboretum?

A. Anyone is welcome to come visit the Arboretum! It’s a great way to see which plants thrive in this area and which plants are challenged. There are numerous benches and places to sit to enjoy the fresh air and scenery. However, since there are no lights, you would want to visit the Arboretum between dawn and dusk. I do plan to add some accent lighting in the future to allow for some use in the evenings, when it’s cooler for walkers. Also, visitors should be aware that some days the irrigation doesn’t turn off until 8 AM.

Q. Have any special events taken place in the Arboretum, and is it open for such occasions? How can people find out more?

A. I have seen several photographers use the Arboretum for graduation, engagement and general photography. As of now, there are no permit requirements, and it is open to anyone for that type of use. Before planning an event, however, please contact us for preapproval—and remember to leave the Arboretum as you found it.

Q. If someone wanted to donate time, money or plants to the Arboretum, how would they do so?

A. Our students, staff and faculty volunteer to work at the NCNLA Green & Growin’ show each year, and many of the plants in the Arboretum have been donated by nurseries from that show. Of special interest to many people is the option to make a donation toward a memorial plant, in honor or memory of a loved one. All donations of time, money or resources are welcomed—anyone interested in donating time or money to the Arboretum can contact Edward Olive or Dr. Sandy Maddox.

Q. Is there anything else you would like to add?

A. The Arboretum is a collective effort that has encompassed thousands of hours of labor, and as a team we have accomplished a great deal in the past 10 years. None of what we have at the Arboretum would have been possible without the vision of Dr. Maddox and our UMO leadership team, as well as the hard work of our students. As the Arboretum continues to change and grow, we hope it will continue to be place for people to enjoy for many years to come.

The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The university is sponsored by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.

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2022 Industry Award Recipients

Each year, NCNLA recognizes the contributions of outstanding individuals and businesses in North Carolina’s green industry. The recipients of the 2022 NCNLA Industry Awards were announced during the annual meeting held at Green & Growin’ on Jan. 19, 2023.

Jerry Ragland Young Landscape Professional Award

Established in 1999, the Jerry Ragland Young Landscape Professional Award recognizes an outstanding young person in the landscape business.

★ Perry Jordan has had a long professional journey with Arbor Enterprises. He began working at there as a maintenance supervisor in 2010, created and managed its irrigation division beginning in 2013, was promoted to general manager in 2018, and then purchased the company in December 2020 — renaming it Arbor Landscape and Irrigation. A Johnston County native, Perry is a licensed landscape contractor, licensed irrigation contractor, Certified Plant Professional and Wastewater Surface Irrigation Operator. Outside of the workplace, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Kayla, and sons Luke (9) and Colton (11).

Why he was nominated

» NCNLA Awards Committee

Thank you to the NCNLA Awards Committee for taking the time to review award nominations and select the 2022 recipients.

Margaret “Phil” Campbell

Kirk Davis

Tony Evans

Chad Gragg

Jeremy Shaver

Nick Waddell

A great boss, Perry is focused on horticultural integrity, as well as serving the community and taking care of his clients and employees. In keeping with the mission of Arbor Landscape and Irrigation, Perry maintains his NCNLA membership and handles maintenance of the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Pittsboro, NC, at no charge. He donates to cancer charities for client causes and also recently helped some employees with personal medical needs.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been the opportunity to purchase Arbor Enterprises after starting as a supervisor at the company 13 years ago. The long days and sacrifices are a real part of the process. The second part of that reward, if it were broken into two equal parts, is that with the help of my family, excellent clients and great employees, my first years as a business owner have been truly successful and overwhelmingly fulfilling.

What advice would you give to someone interested in the industry?

The best advice I can give to someone interested in this industry is to have patience. Find a good mentor you can work with, and stick with it — success doesn’t happen overnight. I also recommend educating yourself and learning about all the different fields in the green industry. Expanding your horizons can really help you discover your true passion.

Oakland Award

Established in 1978 by Oakland Plantation, this award is given to individuals for outstanding service to the nursery and/or landscape industry.

★ Hugh Crump began his career working for a large commercial landscape firm prior to finding his niche in the small, boutique-style residential arena. Greatly enjoying the individualized, collaborative nature of residential work, Hugh further honed his craft with the creation of Greenline Design. He is a registered landscape contractor and lifelong North Carolinian.

Why he was nominated

Hugh recently exited the NCNLA Board of Directors after serving for six years, including his three years on the executive track. As the busy owner of a small landscape design firm in Charlotte, NC, serving on the board was a tremendous time commitment, but Hugh knows the importance of having dedicated leaders who give freely of their time to serve our industry. He served during some difficult times in the association’s history, including during the COVID pandemic, during which funding was extremely limited and staff turnover was high. Hugh is rarely ruffled and always displays a positive energy, and his steady and thoughtful voice helped guide NCNLA through those challenging times. He also is an extremely talented designer who, along with his team, continues to elevate our industry’s standards.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

Our relationships with trade partners and clients are so important to me. It’s very rewarding to earn the trust and respect of clients who believe in our vision. They depend on us to act in their best interests, and I don’t take that responsibility lightly.

What advice would you give to someone interested in the industry?

This is a super interesting question that I’m asked very often. My response is usually very basic: Answer your phone and do what you say you’re going to do. I also encourage newcomers to work to establish relationships with people in the industry — especially with local nurseries, growers and product suppliers, who possess a wealth of knowledge,

are usually willing to share their insights, and are keenly interested in the growth and development of others in the industry. Another great way to fast-track your growth is to become a member of NCNLA. Don’t wait until you’re bigger or more established — the sooner you get involved, the greater your knowledge base becomes. Knowledge is power, but knowledge is also the greatest sales tool.

Kim Powell Outstanding Contribution to the Horticulture Industry

Established in 2004, this award recognizes an individual’s outstanding contribution to the association and industry, and more specifically, their involvement in program development and execution.

★ Lee Ivy is director of the Agricultural Institute and assistant director of academ ic programs in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University.

Lee taught in the Depart ment of Horticultural Science at NC State from 2012 to 2021. He also co-advised the Horticulture Competition Team and co-hosted the Na tional Collegiate Landscape Competition in 2015 and 2022. A graduate with horti cultural degrees from the University of Tennessee and NC State, he is a licensed landscape contractor, a Certified Pesticide Applicator and a member of NCNLA.

Lee co-authored the book “Landscape Design, Installation and Management,” published by Goodheart-Wilcox.

Why he was nominated

Lee is always willing to lend a hand and step up to promote the industry. Instrumental in bringing the localized version of the landscape field day to North Carolina in 2020, he used the event to engage with an entirely new group of students, introduce them to the green industry and spark their interest in the field. Supported by a wide variety of local and national green industry members with whom Lee has made connections over the years, the event was a great success.

Lee is extremely involved with the undergraduate students at NC State University (and formerly at Sandhills Community College) to get them real-world experience and industry knowledge, both through his teaching and by

serving as a lead for the NC State University National Association of Landscape Professionals Competition Team. He is always looking for ways to help the industry bring new generations into the field, and most recently has been working on a doctoral degree focused on the implications of online versus face-to-face education for horticulture students.

Lee is also always willing to help solve current and potential future problems in our industry. For instance, he has stepped in as an interim educational advisor to the NCNLA Board or Directors while Joe Neal was on sabbatical for a year, served on the NCNLA Education Committee, and pitched in as a speaker for Green & Growin’. He also has been working on a grant and project with Wayne Buehler to address the challenges of Spanish-language training related to pesticide licensing. He is truly committed to growing our industry’s future.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

God has blessed me with the opportunity to be part of a community in which people care about each other and have a genuine desire to see others — and the industry as a whole —succeed. Connecting students to meaningful life paths and helping others reach their goals are super fulfilling aspects of my career. Challenging myself to find creative solutions to obstacles is also very rewarding. But I would say the most valuable aspect of my career is having met so many people who turned from acquaintances to friends, and now have become lifelong friendships. So many of the rewards from being in this industry are related to professional networking and encouragement from other educators, industry professionals and upcoming leaders. I have gained much more from this industry than I have ever given, and I am grateful for those who have mentored and encouraged me over the years.

What advice would you give to someone interested in the industry?

It takes courage to introduce yourself to new people and participate in industry-related organizations and events, but participation in smaller groups is the portal to network engagement on a larger scale. So many people in this industry know each other and are willing to share information and strategies for success. In order to tap into that counsel, you have to courageously engage with people at every level of work, management and leadership. So take that step to connect, and you’ll likely find a treasure trove of wisdom and experience — and you’re sure to gain a friend or two along the way.

Bill Wilder Outstanding Young Nursery Professional Award

Established in 1994 and named for the longtime executive director of the North Carolina Association of Nurserymen, this award recognizes qualified young men and women for outstanding service in the field of environmental horticulture and their inspiration to others starting out in the field.

★ Brian Groves is the project manager at Panoramic Farm, located in Marshville, NC. After graduating from Virginia Tech in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science degree in aerospace engineering, he received his Master of Science degree in aerospace engineering from NC State in 2015. With his engineering background, Brian brings an unusual perspective and a unique set of talents to the industry, as it relates to automation and equipment integration.

Brian is also the founder and CEO of Pallet Tower LLC, the daughter company of Panoramic Farm. Pallet Tower is a patented product that helps streamline the packing, shipping and selling processes into a single one-way system.

Why he was nominated

Brian plays a key role at Panoramic Farm, helping the company increase efficiency and production capacity.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

The most rewarding part of my career to this point has been the relationships I have been able to make and the collaborations that have ensued. This industry is all about relationships, and everyone is so quick to share. The best part of the job is getting out and visiting with customers, vendors and other nurseries and seeing how they innovate. That is truly fun for me!

What advice would you give to someone interested in the industry?

I would recommend taking a tour of a nursery or greenhouse. This industry can seem simple from the outside looking in, but as soon as you get a peek behind the curtain, you realize there are lots of complex systems going on in the background. So much science (and art!) is needed to be successful in the green industry nowadays — and that means we need people from all types of backgrounds. Once you take a tour (Panoramic Farm is a great option!), you will get to see how friendly this industry is, and you will be certainly drawn into it!

Libby Wilder Award

Established in 1999 and named for longtime organizer extraordinaire for the North Carolina Association of Nurserymen, this award recognizes outstanding contributions to the nursery industry by a female.

★ Danielle Stephenson is the nursery manager and office administrator at Stephenson’s Nursery in Willow Spring, NC. After working for a couple of years as office administrator, she began working alongside her father on a daily basis, becoming more involved in all aspects of the company’s wholesale nursery operation and plant production.

Why she was nominated

Since Danielle joined her family’s business, she has worked hard to ensure not only that her business does well, but also, through her work as treasurer of the Johnston County Nursery Marketing Associ ation, to help others do well. She has always worked quietly and diligently behind the scenes to support her business and others in the industry.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

Like many people, putting in hard work and seeing the results blossom is most rewarding for me. Making customers happy, working outside and being able to work alongside my family are also very fulfilling. I am extremely blessed to have the opportunity to continue my family legacy and build upon what has been passed down to me. I also love working with my crew and the other green industry professionals who make this industry so awesome!

What advice would you give to someone interested in the industry?

There are many facets to the green industry, so pick the one you like most, work hard at it and repeat. There are a lot of smart, friendly green industry professionals who are willing to reach out and share insights from their successes and failures, so be sure to take advantage of those resources. Sometimes you have to learn things for yourself — but whenever possible, work smarter, not harder!

D.S. Copeland Award

Established in 1972 and named for the founder of Apex Nurseries, this award recognizes outstanding contributions to the nursery industry by a candidate working directly in the nursery industry.

★ Doug Wright has more than 37 years in the horticulture industry, including 17 years as a sales representative at Pender Nursery in Garner, NC. A Michigan State graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in crop and soil science, Doug worked as a sales rep at BioComp prior to coming to Pender Nursery. In the early stages of his career, Doug specialized in retail management, primarily at Rake & Hoe Garden Center in Raleigh, NC.

Why he was nominated

Doug has been instrumental in mentoring and training other horticulturalists, and a big inspiration to those around him. He always stays calm, positive and kind — part of the reason everyone loves him. Doug also possesses a wealth of plant knowledge and is always willing to share that knowledge with customers and peers alike. As he prepares for retirement, he deserves this award for his immense contributions to many organizations, and for mentoring numerous horticulturalists who continue to impact our industry.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

The most rewarding aspect of my 36-year career has been spending it entirely in a business I love. This industry can be challenging at times, but is also very fulfilling and enjoyable. It has allowed me to cross paths and develop great relationships with some truly remarkable individuals. It’s also gratifying to be a part of the resurgence this industry has seen since the Great Recession of 2007-2009. The market is expanding today, with many wanting to spend more time outside, and that’s a trend I’m proud to contribute to.

What advice would you give to someone interested in the industry?

I’m pleased to see an uptick of energetic young people jumping into the industry. My best advice would be to persevere and see it through. The seasonality of this business can be intense, and every year can be a bit different, but hang in there! It’s also particularly important to seek out and build constructive workplace relationships — that’s the key to making one’s job effective and fun at the same time. I’ve been very fortunate in my career to have spent it in such positive company environments.

Grower of the Year

Established in 1994, this award recognizes a high level of professionalism in the management or ownership of a field or container nursery, as well as leadership in the nursery industry through participation in local, regional, state and national organizations.

★ Gary Whitehurst grew up working in the landscape industry with his dad. He was active in the FFA during high school and received a Bachelor of Science degree in horticulture from NC State in 2001, minoring in forestry and environmental science. Looking to take his career in a different direction from landscaping, he began working with Worthington Farms full time as the company’s IPM manager in 2002, gradually taking on more responsibility as the company grew and more opportunities became available.

Why he was nominated

The head grower at Worthington Farms for well over a decade, Gary is well respected by industry peers and competitors alike. During that time, he has overseen tremendous growth in their container and pot-in-pot finished material. Five years ago, Gary also spearheaded the creation of Worthington Farms Liners (WFL), a new division at the company. Starting from scratch, WFL has grown into a major supplier of container tree liners in the nursery industry.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

It has been incredibly fulfilling to play a part, alongside many others, in developing Worthington Farms into a stronger organization over the years.

What advice would you give to someone interested in the industry?

Broaden your knowledge of the green industry and agriculture as much as possible. There are lots of distinct but connected segments in this industry — the more you understand how they all work together, the easier it will be for you to pivot as your career progresses and the industry evolves.

Lifetime Honorary Member

This award recognizes lifetime contributions and achievement in the nursery and landscape industry.

★ Rick Crowder began his career in 1982 at Hawksridge Farms in Hickory, NC, becoming general manager and president of the company in 1985.

He has served in several organizations and on numerous boards in the green industry over the years, including on the board of directors of the North Carolina Association of Nurserymen from 1995 to 1999 (acting as president in 1998); six years on the board of advisors for the JC Raulston Arboretum; the board of advisors for the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, NC; North Carolina’s Green Industry Council; and the Exotic Plant Pest Council. He has also been active in the International Plant Propagator’s Society (IPPS) since 1990, serving as president of the Southern Region in 2010, and as alternate delegate and delegate to the IPPS International Board. Rick has been married to his high school sweetheart, Susie, since 1977, and the couple has two daughters and four grandchildren.

Why he was nominated

Rick has been a long-standing constant in the green industry. His dedication to the field and to NCNLA over the years has been steadfast and extremely commendable.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

The most rewarding part of my career has been all the friends I have made while working in this great industry. Many have become friends for life, and although I am now retired, I still keep in touch with many of the people who encouraged me, helped me and taught me to be the best I could be. Sharing knowledge and networking with other nursery folks, whether through NCNLA or other organizations, was something I always looked forward to. This industry has been like a big family to me, and connecting with others at trade shows and other meetings was always like being at a family reunion.

What advice would you give to someone interested in the industry?

Network with as many folks as possible, whether at meetings, trade shows or their places of business. Join as many nursery-related groups or associations as you can — there are a lot of local associations in North Carolina, as well as NCNLA and groups like IPPS, that can serve as great sources of information. As well, NC State and many community colleges in North Carolina have great horticulture programs that can also be utilized as resources. Our industry, unlike a lot of others, is one in which professionals are willing and proud to share their knowledge.

Build a BETTER

SEGMENTAL RETAINING WALL

By Brad Stowe Grotto Hardscapes/ Chandler Concrete

A Brief History

The basic principles and methods being used today to build a drystacked segmental retaining wall (SRW) have been around for thousands of years. Early notable examples of such walls include ziggurats, found in the Middle East, and the Great Wall of China. Constructed millennia ago, these

structures basically consist of drystacked stones backfilled with compacted soil that has been reinforced with woven reed mats or tree branches.

The first geosynthetic reinforced retaining walls in the United States were constructed in the mid-1970s. Then, in 1975, a Canadian concrete block producer began to market a dry-stacked block for retaining walls, and U.S. block producers followed suit in the 1980s, producing small SRW blocks. By the mid-1980s, geosynthetics were combined with SRWs to build larger structures. Today, SRW units are used widely, both in simple residential applications and in large commercial projects.

Historically, the most common method for building a retaining wall involved using natural stone. However, this method has a big drawback, in that the taller the wall being built, the more massive the structure needs to be. Another common practice was to build with railroad ties and timbers, but these materials have a very low life expectancy, and many of the preservatives used on them have since been banned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Other methods include mortared concrete masonry units and cast-inplace concrete walls—both of which

have high installation costs. SRWs, on the other hand, have become a popular alternative, and offer a high level of design flexibility.

Planning and Designing a Retaining Wall

A successful SRW project begins in the design phase. Knowing the soil types, drainage and water flow on the build site is crucial. In general, walls are best constructed when backfilled with gravels and sandy soils, due to better drainage and greater ease of compaction. Unfortunately, in our region of the country, the soil types we encounter most often are clays, which are difficult to compact and very sensitive to changes in water content. When building a gravity wall—a type of wall that only uses the mass of the SRW units to hold back the forces applied to it—the soil type also affects the maximum height of such a wall. Soil types will also dictate how much additional soil reinforcement is required on taller walls, as well as which types of compaction equipment will be needed. For example, gravels and sands can be vibrated into place with a vibratory tamper, whereas clay soils need to be pounded into place with a jumping jack tamper or sheepsfoot compactor.

Additionally, different types of SRW units have different maximum

heights, ranging from 1.5 feet to 4 feet for most types of wall units, when used in constructing a gravity wall. These heights assume that the wall is being constructed with good soils and proper soil compaction, and that no slopes or surcharges are present (a surcharge is any added weight above a retaining wall, such as a driveway, patio or swimming pool). Slopes or surcharges located within a distance of twice the height of the wall will affect how the wall should be constructed. If a wall needs to be taller, or has a slope or surcharge, geogrid should be used to reinforce the soil behind the wall.

Given the complexities of some wall designs, consider whether or not you should involve a licensed geotechnical engineer on your project. Typically walls 4 feet or less in height do not require an engineerapproved wall design. However, it’s always best to consult with your local building inspector prior to construction—an engineered design will give you peace of mind that your wall will last over time.

Retaining Wall Construction Best Practices

The first step in construction is to excavate for the wall leveling pad. It’s always best to start at the lowest point of the wall, since it’s much easier to

step up your block than to attempt to step down (a similar idea applies if your wall will have a corner, since it’s easier to work out from a corner than to work toward a corner).

The leveling pad needs to consist of 6 inches of road base aggregate (crusher run) or clean stone. In some cases, a lean, very weak concrete mix can be used. As a rule of thumb, embedment should be equal to at least 10% of the exposed wall height, but all walls need to have at least 6 inches of the wall embedded—and embedment will need to be increased for taller walls and those built on slopes. Ensuring that the leveling pad is thoroughly compacted and leveled, before placing any block, is crucial.

Next you can begin placing the base course of block. If you’re using a string line, place this adjacent to the smooth back edge of the block. A 4-foot level should be used to check the block level from side to side; a torpedo level can be used to check level front to back. A dead-blow hammer can be useful for adjusting the block.

The below-grade courses should be backfilled with compacted soil, and exposed courses should be backfilled with clean stone (to facilitate drainage). The drainage stone should be 12 inches behind the wall for solid SRWs and 6 inches behind the wall

for hollow-core SRWs. Once a block is laid, it should be pulled forward to engage whatever type of connection the particular type of block features. A 4-inch perforated drain pipe should be placed behind the first exposed course and should be vented through the block every 50 feet.

If hollow-core units are used for every course, wall units should be backfilled and core-filled. Compaction should begin at the wall and move away from the wall, performed in small lifts and never to exceed 6-8 inches. If geogrid is being used to reinforce soil, it should be placed perpendicular to the wall and not overlap, and should be pulled tight and staked down to avoid wrinkles. Make sure there are at least 6 inches of soil cover before operating machinery over geo grid. Continue this process for the remainder of the wall.

Caps should be placed above the top course of block and secured with concrete adhesive. Many installers like to allow caps to overhang, which adds a bit of flair to the wall and also helps to hide any imperfections that may be present. One idea to consider is using a contrasting color on the cap to add to the wall’s visual beauty.

Following the guidelines outlined above should help you achieve success in your next wall project.

Jan. 16-20, 2023 | Greensboro, NC

Wrap -Up

Sow seeds Succe

Education

During the three-day education conference at Green & Growin’ 23, hosted at the Sheraton Greensboro at Four Seasons, more than 1,100 industry professionals earned credits toward state or national licenses and certifications.

The 2023 education conference featured 50 sessions, three hands-on workshops, one training school and two exams. The most popular general sessions included:

• Integrated Pest and Pollinator Management for Ornamental Plants

• Practical Aspects of the Use of Plant Growth Regulators

• Segmental Retaining Wall Basics

In addition to the general education sessions, three workshops were offered:

• Principles of Pruning: Horticulture extraordinaire Bryce Lane

focused this workshop on pruning with a blend of scientific principles and artistic creativity. Attendees learned about historical pruning methods, as well as which tools, techniques and timing requirements are ideal for creating and maintaining a variety of landscapes.

• Are All Lighting Systems Created Equal? Unique Lighting’s Jason Shanabarger led a tight group of 16 individuals in a hands-on workshop that covered troubleshooting common lighting issues and learning proper wiring techniques. This was the first half-day lighting workshop Green & Growin’ has hosted, and

“Best I’ve ever experienced in more than 30 years.”

— Clark O’Neill, President of the Carolinas Irrigation Association

“Best show on the East Coast. Always trying to top previous years. Awesome.”

— C.D. Prillaman, Prillaman Landscape Dimensions Inc.

“It continues to get better each year.”

— Jimmy Anderson, Piedmont Mowing LLC

based on the feedback we received, we look forward to offering similar workshops in the future!

• Designing the Environmentally Responsive Landscape — A Nature-Inspired Approach: Instructors Dr. Richard Ludwig and Bill Slack designed a new course and presented again at Green & Growin’ again this year to lead a hands-on workshop on how to weave ecologically sound concepts into traditional residential design. Their methods focused on hand-drafting plans and translating design ideas onto paper.

This year’s education conference also hosted two keynote speakers, who did not disappoint. The world-renowned Marty Grunder presented our Tuesday keynote on how to be a team player. This session served as a reminder of the instrumental roles ALL team members play, and offered tips on how to get the most out of each workday. Marty emphasized the notion that when you’re part of a great team, you have more than a job — you have a purpose.

Our Wednesday keynote from Kim Eierman challenged conventional perspectives on natural resources and discussed strategies on how to emulate natural environments in our daily work. Kim also signed copies of her book “The Pollinator Victory Garden,” with all sales directly benefiting the NCNLA scholarship fund.

Finally, this year’s education conference would not have been possible without the help of our wonderful attendees, speakers, sponsors, volunteers, vendor partners, board and staff. Thank you to everyone who contributed to its success, and we look forward to seeing everyone again in 2024!

HIGHLIGHTS

NCNLA Member Breakfast and Annual Meeting

The NCNLA Member Breakfast and Annual Meeting, held Thursday morning at the Greensboro Coliseum, enabled NCNLA members to gather for breakfast and hear the president’s report on the state of the association. The meeting included updates from industry partners, the installation of new board members, and recognition of the 2022 NCNLA Awards recipients.

President’s Reception

On Thursday evening, all Green & Growin’ Education and Marketplace attendees were invited to the first annual President’s Reception, where they could eat, drink and mingle with friends and colleagues. Hosted by Caterpillar, the evening featured refreshments, a cornhole tournament to benefit the NCNLA scholarship fund, prize drawings, great conversation and happy faces.

Women in the Green Industry Gathering

The annual Women in the Green Industry Gathering, held Friday at the Greensboro Coliseum, gave attendees an opportunity to join industry colleagues for refreshments and networking. New to the event

this year was a special guest speaker, Alka Upadhyay, North American BCP regional industry sales manager at Caterpillar, who shared some of the latest industry insights with attendees, along with details of her own professional journey.

Alka Upadhyay, North American BCP Regional Industry Sales Manager at Caterpillar

NCNLA President Tim Johnson, II

President’s Reception Cornhole Champions Terry Kallam and Clancy Baucom

Marketplace

Green industry professionals from across the Southeastern United States and beyond came together recently at the Green & Growin’ 23 Marketplace, held at the Greensboro Coliseum Special Events Center Jan. 19-20. More than 300 first-time and returning exhibitors came from across the U.S. and Canada to showcase their products, equipment, plant materials and services.

NCNLA brought back several popular amenities and attractions during this year’s Marketplace. For example, on both days, exhibitors and attendees were able to take advantage of morning coffee stations, as well as lunch and afternoon snack breaks — all of which were complimentary— allowing everyone at the event to maximize their time on the show floor.

“It was exciting to see a packed Marketplace, which brought back a feeling of normalcy we haven’t had since before the pandemic,” said Tim John-

son II, NCNLA president and Green & Growin’ exhibitor. “I was so impressed with the vendors’ products on display, and the floor was busier than I have ever seen at any previous Green & Growin’ show. I really enjoyed catching up with old friends and colleagues, meeting new people, and introducing members of our team face to face. The mood was festive, and attendees seemed to be optimistic about the outlook for our industry as a whole.”

Also included in Marketplace admission, SiteOne Landscape Supply offered three sessions discussing and demonstrating exciting ways contractors

can add to their current slate of services. SiteOne began on Thursday by demonstrating how to build outdoor living structures using modular panel construction, followed by a session on uses and installation methods of natural stone thin veneer. During Friday’s demonstration, SiteOne covered the topic of synthetic turf, including discussions on varieties, benefits and proper installation techniques, as well as tips and tricks to help make turf projects more successful.

We would like to thank all attendees, exhibitors, volunteers and sponsors for making Green & Growin’ 23 possible, and we look forward to seeing everyone again in 2024!

“Green & Growin’ 23 was a great opportunity to collaborate with fellow green industry leaders and colleagues, as well as an eye-opening experience for my students to see what the green industry has to offer them in terms of future careers.”

— Nicholas Anders, Southern Alamance High School Horticulture Department

Booth AWARDS

This year at Green & Growin’ Marketplace, four exhibitor booths were chosen for award recognition in the following categories: Allied, Floral, Woody Ornamental and Best in Show. These booths were selected based on their quality, appearance, creativity and overall “wow” factor. Congratulations to this year’s winners!

Dewar Nurseries Inc. Apopka, FL

Best in Show

Best Floral Booth King’s Greenhouse Monroe, NC

Best Woody Ornamental Booth Renfroe Valley Tree Farm Mills River, NC

Best Allied Booth STIHL Hillsborough, NC

Special Recognition

A special thank-you goes out to all the volunteers who helped make Green & Growin’ 23 a success!

Green & Growin’ 23 would have not be possible without our extraordinary group of volunteers. This year, we were fortunate to welcome volunteers students and faculty from the University of Mount Olive, Sandhills Community College and Pitt Community College, as well as industry professionals from North Carolina Cooperative Extension offices around the state. These generous individuals volunteered their time and energy to ensure that attendees had a smooth check-in process, scan attendees in and out of education sessions and the Marketplace, and introduce education session speakers, among other tasks. Thank you to all our volunteers!

Pitt Community College

Shade Harrington

Oli McKeel

Jerry Pittman

Taelor Scales

Izzy Waters

Hannah Worrells

Sandhills Community College

Bonnie Martinez

University of Mount Olive

Courtney Bivins

Jennifer Bradley

Reagan Carter

Logan Clark

Jason Davis

Jasmine Gonzalez

Payton Kennedy

Hannah Loftin

Tatiana Martinez

Sarah McAllister

Rachel Smith

Tim Warren

North Carolina Cooperative Extension Agents

Sarah Christas

Rhiannon Goodwin

Taylor Jones

Sam Marshall

Cari Mitchell

Melinda Roberts

Leslie Rose

“I enjoyed being able to interact with people in the green industry — it was a super fun experience! There is a lot involved in making the Green & Growin’ show work.”

— Natalie McBride, University of Mount Olive student

Student volunteers Hannah Loftin and Hannah Worrells

(Left to Right) Leslie Rose, Cari Mitchell, Rayna Bailey and Sarah Christas

University of Mount Olive Volunteers Payton Kennedy and Reagan Carver

In addition to students, faculty and extension agents, many other individuals also volunteered their time at the Marketplace, assisting with the setup and breakdown of the trade show floor. The move-in/moveout crew worked tirelessly leading up to the opening day of the Marketplace on Thursday, Jan. 19. Thank you to all those who took time out of their busy schedules to help ensure the Marketplace was in tiptop shape!

Jeff Allegood

Miguel Bautish Hernandez

Jonathan Bowles

Bill Bynum

Kevin Cagle

Robby Cagle

Salvador Callejas

Hunter Casey

Matt Casey

Juan Castillo

Vicente Cisneros

John Clark

Richard Currin

Hunter Dagenhart

Meka Delacruz

Melissa Dudley

Alan Erwin

Laura Estrada

Mark Gantt

Chad Gragg

Doug Gragg

Joey Gragg

Wendy Gragg

Jon Gregory

Landis Hall

Girardo Hernandez

Eli Higgins

Mike Hudson

Kevin Ingram

AJ Johnson

Chason Johnson

Amanda Jurisich

Josh Kennedy

Brent Langston

Mike Marshall

Wil Massengill

Florencio Mejia

Pascual Mendoza

Jerry Merrill

Larry Merrill

Oscar Michel

Jay Mitchell

Jim Mitchell

Eric Mizner

Ariel Montañez

Bryan Naylor

Robbie Potts

Julian Ramirez

Destinee Ramseur

Nick Ray

Cruz Reyes Martinez

Danny Rhodes

Shanon Spivey

Taylor Spivey

Jamie Thomas

Albelardo

Urbina-Gonzales

William Westbrook

Tod Williams

Vaughn Willoughby

A very special thanks goes to Skip Warrick and his “A-Team” of assistants — Mike Hudson, Rick Crowder and Mike Cabaniss — for cooking and serving up the best lunches to the move-in/move-out crews on Tuesday and Wednesday during Green & Growin’ 23. To those who have never experienced Skip’s culinary mastery, including ribs, brisket and fixins, you are missing out. It is rumored that some individuals actually volunteer solely to be rewarded with these legendary lunches. If you’d like to be a part of the move-in/move-out crew at Green & Growin’ 24, reach out to Kathryn Stansbury at kstansbury@ncnla.com.

We may have missed a few names, but we appreciate the hard work of everyone who contributed their time!

2023 Exhibitors

A.D.R Bulbs, Inc.

Adcock’s Nursery

After Hours Nursery, LLC

Agri Supply

Air Pump USA

Air-Pot USA

Alamance Community College-Horticulture

All American Gutter Protection

Apex Nurseries, Inc.

Appalachian Farms of Cranberry LLC

Arbor Fields

Arborbrace

Back Road Farms

Bailey Nurseries

Baker Environmental Nursery, Inc.

BASF

Baucom’s Nursery

Benchmark Tool & Supply, Inc.

Bennett’s Creek Nursery

BFG Supply Co, LLC

Big Frog Nursery

BioSafe Systems, LLC

Bland Landscaping Company

Blankenship Farms & Nursery

Bluefields Nursery Co. LLC

Bob Young’s Nursery

Bobbex Inc.

Bottoms Nursery, LLC.

Bouldin Nursery & Greenhouse

Brooksville Palms

Brunson Wholesale Nursery

Bryan Wagoner Tree Farm

Buds & Blooms Nursery

Buffalo Horticulture Sales

Buy Sod, Inc.

BWI Companies C & J Nursery

Cam Too Camellia Nursery, Inc.

Carolina Boxwoods, Inc.

Carolina Landscape Supplies, Inc.

Carolina Native Nursery

Carolina Stalite (Environmental)

Carroll’s Plant Center, Inc.

Casey Nursery, Inc.

Caterpillar Inc.

Charleston Aquatic & Environmental, Inc.

Charlie’s Creek Nursery, Inc.

Cherokee Manufacturing Circle K Pro

Clarity Connect, Inc.

Classic Groundcovers, Inc.

Commercial Pine Straw

Construction Attachments

Country Clipper Zero Turn

Mowers

County Line Tree Farm

Creekside Farms Nursery

Crumpler Plastic Pipe, Inc

Currins Nursery, Inc.

Curtis Lane Equipment

Daddy Pete’s Plant Pleaser

Davis Insurance Agency

Day Lily Nursery, Inc.

Dayton Bag & Burlap

Dewar Nurseries Inc.

Diebel Nursery

Ditch Witch of North Carolina

Doug Clark Nursery, Inc.

dba C & G Nursery

Dutchman Industries Inc.

Dykes & Son Nursery

Eason Horticultural Resources, Inc.

Elliott’s Nursery

Everde Growers

Evergreen Nursery Company, Inc.

Fair View Nursery, Inc.

Five Oaks Nursery & Tree Farm

Flatlands Insurance Group

Fleming Ridge Nursery

Flowerwood Nursery, Inc.

Flowing Well Tree Farm

Fowler’s Nursery

Fraser Knoll, LLC

GardenCenterMarketing. com

Gardenscape

GDK Leasing Inc. dba

Amplex

Gilmore Plant & Bulb Co., Inc.

Goodson and Associates, LLC

Gossett’s Landscape Nursery, Inc.

Gra-Mac Irrigation

Grants Creek Nursery, Inc.

Gravely

Green Biz Nursery

Green Resource

Greenleaf Nursery Company

Greensboro Shrub

Nursery

Greenscape Tools, Inc.

Greenthumb Nursery, LLC.

Greenworks Commercial

Griffith Propagation Nursery, Inc.

GROWinBAG

H & H Farm Machine Co.

Hackney Nursery

Hamner Tree Farm

Harrell’s, LLC

Haviland Plastic Products

Hawkins Nursery, Inc.

Hawksridge Farms

Heritage Oak Farms, LLC

Hibernia Nursery

Hickory Hill Nursery

Highway Equipment Company, Inc.

Hildreth Brothers Nursery

Hillside Nursery

Wholesale Co., LLC.

Hoffman Nursery, Inc.

Hookstake

Horizon Distributors

Hortica Insurance

Hortsource LLC

Howard Fertilizer & Chemical

I Must Garden

Iseli Nursery

J & B Herb and Plant Farm

J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co.

J. Parlier & Associates

Jack Rabbit Nursery

Jackson Nursery

Jake A Parrott Insurance Agency Inc

James River Equipment Company

JC Raulston Arboretum

Jericho Farms

John Holmlund Nursery

Johnson Nursery Corp.

Johnston County Nursery Marketing Association

Jones Insurance Agency

Jon’s Nursery, Inc.

Kenneth Myers and Sons

Nursery

King’s Greenhouse, Inc.

King’s Sunset Nursery, Inc.

Kirk Davis Nursery

L & H Enterprises

Lake Oconee Tree Farm

Lake Tree Growers

Landart Solutions (ForeverLawn)

Lanes Creek Trees

Lathams Nursery, Inc.

LeafFilter North of North Carolina, LLC

Lemon Hole Nursery

Lewis Nursery, Inc.

Lights for Decorators

Lilley Farms & Nursery, Inc.

Liner Farm Nursery

Liner Source, Inc.

Little River Nursery

Long Branch Farm

Long Pond Nursery

Low Falls Wholesale

Nursery

Mack Bros. Landscape

Nursery

Marlboro Bulb Company

May Nursery, Inc.

McCorkle Nurseries Inc.

McGill Premium Compost

McLamb Nursery, Inc.

McMakin Farms Inc.

Meridian Young Plants

Michells

Mize Farm and Garden

ML Irrigation

MNI Direct

Monrovia Nursery

Moon’s Tree Farm, Inc.

Mountain Nursery

Mycorrhizal Applications

N.C. Irrigation Contractors’ Licensing Board

N.C. State University

Horticultural Science

Native Forest Nursery

NC Department of Commerce- Division of Workforce Solutions

NC Invasive Plant Council

NC Landscape Contractors’ Licensing Board

NC Pine Needle Producers Assn.

NCDA & CS- Structural Pest Control & Pesticides Division

NCDA & CS-Agronomic Division

NCDA & CS-Marketing Division

NCDA&CS – Plant Industry Division

NCNLA

Netherland Bulb Company, Inc.

NewGen Boxwood

North 40 Nursery, Inc.

North Carolina Farms, Inc.

North Carolina Native Plant Society

North Creek Nurseries, Inc.

Nufarm Americas, Inc.

Nursery Supplies, Inc.

NurserySouth, LLC

NYP Corporation

OHP

Old Courthouse Nursery

Oldcastle Lawn & Garden

Pack Manufacturing

Panoramic Farm, Inc.

Panther Creek Nursery

Parker Bark Company, Inc.

Parsons Nursery, Inc.

Pender Nursery

Performance Outdoor Products, Inc.

Piedmont Carolina Nursery

Piney Mountain Trees

Pitt Community College

Plant & Supply Locator

Plant Delights Nursery, Inc.

PlantANT

Plantworks Nursery

Poplar Ridge Nursery, Inc.

Powell’s Nursery, LLC

Power Equipment

Distributors

Powered Living

Preferred Lawn and Garden LLC

Premier Growers of America, LLC

Premier Growers, Inc.

Pritchett Farms Nurseries

Progreen Inc.

ProGreen Synthetic Turf

R.A. Dudley Nurseries, Inc.

R.M. Gragg & Sons Nursery LLC

Rainbow Ecoscience

Ray Bracken Nursery, Inc.

Reddick Equipment Company of NC LLC

Reimer’s Nurseries Ltd.

Renfroe Valley Tree Farm

Rhodes Nursery

Riverbend Nursery, LLC

River’s Edge Nursery

Riverside Plastics, Inc.

Robinson Nursery, Inc.

Rocky Creek Nursery

RootMaker Products Co, LLC

Rose Creek Nursery and Landscaping

Roundstone Native Seed, LLC.

Rusty Mangrum Nursery

Sampson Nursery, Inc.

Sandhills Community College

Sandy’s Plants, Inc.

Saunders Brothers, Inc.

SCAG Power Equipment

Scottree

Sester Farms, Inc.

Shady Grove Plantation & Nursery, Inc.

Shady Rest Nursery

Shiloh Nursery

Simplot Turf & Horticulture

Simpson Nurseries

SiteLight LD, Inc.

SiteOne Landscape Supply

Smith’s Nursery, Inc.

Sonco Pipe and Tube

Southeastern Growers, Inc.

Southern Ag

Southern Exposure Seed Exchange

Southern Oak Nursery & Supply

Southern Pine Needles of NC, LLC

Specialty Tag & Label, Inc.

Spivey’s Nursery, Inc.

Spring Creek Nursery

Spring Meadow Nursery, Inc.

Star Ridge Aquatics, LLC

Star Roses and Plants

Starling Nursery

STI Turf Care Equipment

STIHL

Stockhaven Nursery, LLC

Stone Center | Landscape & Masonry

Stony Point Nursery and Farms

Stuppy Greenhouses

Sugar Mountain Nursery

Superior Trees Inc.

Super-Sod

Surface Nursery, Inc.

Swift Creek Nursery

T.H. Blue, Inc.

Taw Caw Creek Nursery LLC

Taylors Nursery

Tennessee Valley Nursery

The Clay Market

The Greenhouse Company of South Carolina, LLC.

The Holly Factory

The Perennial Farm

Thomas Nursery, Inc.

Three Volcanoes Farm

Thumbs Up Nursery

Tidwell Nurseries, Inc.

Tim Johnson Landscaping

Tinga Nursery, Inc.

Todco Inc.

Tom Dodd Nurseries, Inc.

Transplant Nursery

Tree Farm Nursery and Liners

TreeDiaper

Triangle Turf & Ornamental

Turf Connections

Turf Mountain Sod, Inc.

Turner & Sons Nursery

Turtle Creek Nursery

Van Belle Nursery

Vandemark Sod Farms

Vans Pines Nursery, Inc.

Vermeer Mid Atlantic

Vole King

Walnut Hill Farms

Walters Gardens

Warren County Nursery

Waynesboro Nurseries, Inc.

Wetland Plants Inc

White House Gardens

White’s International Trucks

Williams PlantWorks LLC

Williford’s Nursery

Willow Oak Nursery

Willowbend & Ridge Manor Nurseries

Wind River Growers LLC

Worthington Farms, Inc.

Wyatt Quarles Seed Company

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OUTDOOR LIVING

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Horizon offers a complete selection of products and support — all in one place, with the green industry’s widest choice of top quality brand names in irrigation, landscape, outdoor living, and power equipment.

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