VNLA Newsletter Jul/Aug/Sep 2012

®

VNLA Newsletter July/August/September 2012 3

2012 VNLA Officers & Directors OFFICERS President STEVE GRIGG - Education Grigg Design Inc ‘09 8193 Euclid Ct #A Manassas Park, VA 20111-4810 703-368-7539 Fax:703-368-2894 [email protected] Vice President MATT SAWYER - Research Bennett’s Creek Nursery ‘07 5635 Shoulders Hill Rd Suffolk, VA 23435-1807 757-483-1425 Fax: 757-483-9058 [email protected] Secretary/ Treasurer MATT SHRECKHISE Communications ‘08 Shreckhise Nurseries PO Box 428 Grottoes, VA 24441-0428 540-249-5761 fax:540-249-5762 [email protected] Ex-Officio Past President MARK MASLOW Resource Development Southern Landscape Group PO Box 397 Evington VA 24550-0397 434-821-6004 Fax: 434-821-2133 [email protected] Executive Director JEFFREY B. MILLER Horticulture Management Associates LLC 383 Coal Hollow Road Christiansburg, VA 24073-6721 1-800-476-0055 Fax: 540-382-2716 [email protected]

2 YR DIRECTORS CHERYL LAJOIE Certification ‘09 Lancaster Farms 5800 Knotts Neck Rd Suffolk VA 23435-1353 757-484-4421 Fax: 7575-686-8637 [email protected] JOHN BARBIERI Membership ‘08 Riverbend Nursery 5408 Meadow Chase Rd Midlothian, VA 23112-6316 804-363-6758 Fax: 804-639-5905 [email protected] VIRGINIA ROCKWELL Legislation ‘12 Gentle Gardener Green Design PO Box 418 Gordonsville, VA 22942-0418 540-832-7031 (cell) 434-531-0467 [email protected] Educational Advisors

DR. ROGER HARRIS VA Tech

Horticulture Dept. Head Saunders Hall (0327)

Blacksburg, VA 24061-0001 540-231-5451

Fax: 540-231-3083 [email protected]

Dr. Jim Owen HARAREC 1444 Diamond Springs Rd Virginia Beach, VA 23455-3351 (757) 363-3804 [email protected] Beautiful Gardens® Plant Introduction Program LISA LIPSEY Program Coordinator VA Tech Dept of Horticulture (0327) Blacksburg, VA 24061 540-231- 6961 Fax: 540-231-3083 [email protected]

1 YR DIRECTORS SONYA L. WESTERVELT Public Relations ‘10 Saunders Brothers Inc 2717 Tye Brook Highway Piney River, VA 22964 (434) 277-5455 fax: (434) 277-5394 [email protected] TOM THOMPSON, Environmental Affairs ‘10 Natural Art Landscaping 3540 S Belmont Rd Richmond VA 23234-2912 (804) 674-5703 [email protected] DOUG HENSEL Beautiful Gardens ‘08 Great Big Greenhouse & Nrsy 2051 Huguenot Rd Richmond, VA 23235-4305 804-320-1317 FAX: 804-320-9580 [email protected] MANTS’ DIRECTORS JOHN LANCASTER‘02 Bennett’s Creek Nursery 3613 Bridge Road Suffolk, VA 23435-1807 757-483-1425 FAX: 757-483-9058 TOM SAUNDERS ’96 Saunders’ Brothers Inc. 2508 Tye Brook Hwy Piney River, VA 22964-2301 804-277-5455 FAX: 804-277-8010 DANNY SHRECKHISE Shreckhise Nurseries ‘12 PO Box 428 Grottoes, VA 24441-0428 540-249-5761 fax:540-249-5762 [email protected]

REGIONAL ASSOCIATIONS Central Virginia Nursery & Landscape Assoc Jim Hassold 804-377-1977 [email protected] Eastern Shore Nurserymen’s Association John Owen 757-442-6717 [email protected] Hampton Roads Nursery & Landscape Assoc Cheryl Lajoie (757) 484-4421 [email protected] Northern Virginia Nursery & Landscape Assoc Amanda Caldwell [email protected] Piedmont Landscape Assoc Jessica Primm 434-882-0520 [email protected] Shenandoah Valley Nursery & Greenhouse Assoc Matt Shreckhise 540-249-5761 [email protected] Directors at Large Mike Hildebrand ‘12 James River Nurseries 13244 Ashland Rd Ashland VA 23005-7504 804-798-2020 Fax: 804-798-2802 mchildebrand@ jamesrivernurseries.com Dawn Lerch ‘12 Associate 1701 Ducatus Dr Midlothian VA 23113-4067 804-690-1374 (cell) [email protected] Bill Gouldin ‘12 Strange’s Florist/Garden Ctrs 3313 Mechanicsville Pike Richmond VA 23223 804-321-2200x331 [email protected]

VNLA Newsletter 3July / August / September 2012

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4 April/May/June 2012 VNLA Newsletter

Ad - Bennett’s Creek Nursery ...................................... 13 Ad - Bremo Trees ......................................................... 68 Ad - Buds & Blooms Nursery ...................................... 27 Ad - BuyNCPlants.com ................................................ 55 Ad - Carolina Bark Products ........................................ 61 Ad - Colonial Farm Credit ........................................... 68 Ad - CW Reeson Nursery .............................................. 5 Ad - Eastern Shore Nursery of Virginia ....................... 23 Ad - Fair View Nursery ............................................... 61 Ad - Goodson & Associates ......................................... 53 Ad - Gossett’s Landscape Nursery ............................... 54 Ad - Guthrie Nursery ................................................... 41 Ad - Hanover Farms ....................................................... 9 Ad - Hardwood Mulch ................................................. 64 Ad - Hawksridge Farms ............................................... 65 Ad - John Deere Landscapes ........................................ 39 Ad - Johnston County Nursery Marketing Assoc ......... 64 Ad - Lancaster Farms ................................................... 43 Ad - Landscape Supply Inc .......................................... 47 Ad - Lilley Farms and Nursery .................................... 37 Ad - Maryland Plants & Supplies ................................ 57 Ad - Mid-Atlantic Solutions ........................................ 31 Ad - OHP - Sirocco ....................................................... 21 Ad - Pender Nurseries .................................................. 67 Ad - Plantsource N.C. .................................................. 45 Ad - Plantworks Nursery .............................................. 49 Ad – Shreckhise Nurseries ............................................ 57 Ad - SiteLight Id .......................................................... 33 Ad - SNA ..................................................................... 51 Ad - Tankard Nurseries ................................................ 25 Ad - TD Watkins Horticultural Sales .............................. 5 Ad - Virginia Turfgrass Council .................................. 62 Ad - Waynesboro Nurseries ......................................... 11 Ad - Willow Springs Tree Farms ................................. 34 Ad - Winfall Nurseries ................................................. 34 Ad -Turtle Creek Nursery ............................................ 29 Editorial - Remember When? ...................................... 12 Editorial - What it takes to be a Guerrilla Gardener? ... 10 Editorial - Why I Am a Volunteer ................................ 8 Events - Upcoming ....................................................... 66 Legislation - How to Contact Congress ......................... 7 Legislative - National Update: ANLA ......................... 38 Letter - Agriculture in the Classroom ............................ 7 Letter - North Carolina Research Service ...................... 8 Letter - Thank you to VNLA ........................................ 8 Letter - Thank You Virginia Agribusiness Council ...... 8 Letters - Eric Wiseman .................................................. 8

News - “Biointensive Chic"” CVNLA ........................ 40 News - Boxwood Blight Update .................................. 17 News - CVNLA Thanks Sponsors! ............................ 18 News - Do they have Garden Centres

in China and Japan? ...................................... 60 News - Funding Needed for Box Blight Research ...... 18 News - HRAREC Adds Research Staff ....................... 20 News - New Specialty License Plate 4TREES ............ 61 News - Rockwell Attains Certification Credential ...... 19 News - SNA: Summers Named EVP

of Endowment ........................................... 20 News - State Fair Bankruptcy ..................................... 22 News - Strange’s Nationally Recognized ................... 19 News - Sustainable Landscape Ratings ....................... 22 News - University of Richmond Sustainable Program 24 News - VA Tech again ACC champs

in Landscape Contracting Event ................ 26 News - VA Tech Hort Students Compete .................... 25 News - Virginia Gardeners Recycle: Statewide

Container Recycling Program .................... 41 News- VSLD Elects New Board .................................. 10 Research - Weed Management Research Update ....... 44 Tips - Consumer and Trade resources to promote ....... 18 Tips - Room with a View

Available for Immediate Occupancy ........ 42 Tips - Sustainable Practices Glossary .......................... 28 Tips - What is LEED? ................................................. 56 VNLA - Certified Horticulturist Exam Schedule ........ 66 VNLA - Certified Horticulturist Stamper .................... 32 VNLA - Beautiful Gardens ‘VT Spirit’ Daylily ............. 2 VNLA - Certification Quiz #60 ................................... 35 VNLA - Certification Quiz Article #60 ....................... 29 VNLA - Donations for VAC Appreciation Banquet ... 17 VNLA - Field Day & Summer Tour 2012 .................... 19 VNLA - June 2012 Photo Contest ............................... 15 VNLA - Legislative Suvey Results ............................. 60 VNLA - MANTS “After Dark”-

Where And When It All Started ................. 16 VNLA - Member Profile: Nautilus Garden Designs ... 36 VNLA – Newsletter Advertising Specs ........................ 65 VNLA - Newsletter Changes ....................................... 17 VNLA - Photo Contest Rules ...................................... 15 VNLA - Photo Contest Winners .................................. 14 VNLA - Quiz Article - Sustainable Practices 3 of 3 ... 28 VNLA - Spring Board Meeting Minutes ..................... 48 VNLA -LEED Certification for Members ................... 56

Table of Contents

4 July / August / September 2012 VNLA Newsletter

T. D. Watkins Horticultural SalesRepresenting Red Oak, Shreckhise, Bremo Tree, Crookhorn, Willow Springs, Rockcreek andProctor Brothers Nurseries.

[email protected] Chalkwell Drive, Midlothian, Virginia 23113Cell 804-929-1982 Fax (call first) 804-378-0813

VNLA Newsletter April/May/June 2012 5

VNLA Mission, Vision and Objectives for 2012

Mission Statement: To Enhance and promote Vir-ginia’s nursery and landscape industry.

Vision: to become the leader and resource for the Virginia nursery and landscape industry.

Objectives Educated, Available Skilled Labor Force - Goal: VNLA will continue to promote programs that will education, train and provide an available skilled la-bor force.

Effective Communication and Advocacy GOAL: VNLA will effectively communication among staff, board, members, partners and the community.

Maximizing and Allocation Resources - GOAL: VNLA will secure increased funding from diverse sources and secure the necessary staff, board and committee members to run a dynamic organization.

Membership and Outreach - GOAL: Expand and communicate the value of membership.

Stewardship - GOAL: VNLA will promote adoption of Best Management Practices.

Strategic Marketing - GOAL: VNLA will promote itself as the leader and resource of the green industry.

What are members problems? How are we going to help them become

more successful?

Ad – CW Reeson Nursery

Same as previous

Classified Ads Help Wanted

If you don’t see your ad here, neither does anyone else!

Call 800-476-0055 or email [email protected]

for advertising information, today!

SAVE THE DATE!! VNLA Field Day &

Summer Tour August 8/9, 2012

Battlefield Farms, Orange James Madison’s Montpelier

Library of Congress Roof Garden Private Estate Gardens


VNLA Newsletter July/August 2006 5

Classified Ads VNLA Mission, Vision and Objectives for 2006

Mission: To Enhance and promote Virginia’s nursery and landscape industry.

Vision: The vision is to become the leader and resource for Virginia's nursery and

landscape industry.

Objectives

1. To expand the market for Virginia green industry products and services.

2. To have a positive influence on the legislature and other regulatory agencies impacting the industry in Virginia and the nation.

3. To provide quality professional development and certification programs for association members.

4. To be the catalyst for stimulating, and advancing the education, research, and technology needs of the industry.

5. To provide a responsive information management system for association members that is a viable clearing house for educational, legislative, mar-keting, research, and other important information concerning the industry.

6. To remain the leading horticulture organization within the agriculture community of Virginia.

7. To maintain an association organizational structure that will be fully responsive to its mission.


Same as previous

Ad – Sundance Safaris

Ad Safaris2_ad 2.pdf

Ad – HighPeakFarm.pdf

Ad - ChapmanLumber.tif

VIBURNUM ROOTED CUTTINGS FOR SALE $0.85 each

For Current Availability Email: [email protected] Phone: 434/263-4793 Website: www.highpeakfarm.com

HIGH PEAK FARMHIGH PEAK FARMHIGH PEAK FARMSHIPMAN VIRGINIASHIPMAN VIRGINIASHIPMAN VIRGINIA

OFFERING QUALITYGUIDED HUNTS

MEXICODUCKS, DOVES, TURKEYSDESERT MULEYS-COUESDEER-DESERT BIGHORN

CANADABEAR, COUGAR, ELK

COLORADOBUFFALO

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:DAVID “DEE” LAIRD

[email protected] • www.sangresundance.netPO Box 1895 • Montrose, CO 81402 • 970-240-0743

VNLA Newsletter January/February 2006 5

Classified Ads VNLA Mission, Vision and Objectives for 2006

Same as previous


Same as previous Same as previous

VIBURNUM ROOTED CUTTINGS FOR SALE $0.85 each

For Current Availability Email: [email protected] Phone: 434/263-4793 Website: www.highpeakfarm.com

HIGH PEAK FARMHIGH PEAK FARMHIGH PEAK FARMSHIPMAN VIRGINIASHIPMAN VIRGINIASHIPMAN VIRGINIA



OFFERING QUALITYGUIDED HUNTS

MEXICODUCKS, DOVES, TURKEYSDESERT MULEYS-COUESDEER-DESERT BIGHORN

CANADABEAR, COUGAR, ELK

COLORADOBUFFALO

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:DAVID “DEE” LAIRD

[email protected] • www.sangresundance.netPO Box 1895 • Montrose, CO 81402 • 970-240-0743

Donate to the VNA Horticulture Research Auction

Help our endowment grow, so we can support more research for the nursery and landscape industry!

Donate: equipment, plants, artwork, vacations, show tickets, game tickets, gift certificates, services

The auction will be at the Tir na Nog Irish Pub Restaurant, HarborPlace, featuring Skyla Burrell Band

on Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Contact: Chairman Matt Sawyer at 757-483-1425 or [email protected]

VNLA Newsletter January/February/March 2012 5

VNLA Mission, Vision and Objectives for 2012

Mission Statement: To Enhance and promote Vir-ginia’s nursery and landscape industry.

Vision: to become the leader and resource for the Virginia nursery and landscape industry.

Objectives Educated, Available Skilled Labor Force - Goal: VNLA will continue to promote programs that will education, train and provide an available skilled la-bor force.

Effective Communication and Advocacy GOAL: VNLA will effectively communication among staff, board, members, partners and the community.

Maximizing and Allocation Resources - GOAL: VNLA will secure increased funding from diverse sources and secure the necessary staff, board and committee members to run a dynamic organization.

Membership and Outreach - GOAL: Expand and communicate the value of membership.

Stewardship - GOAL: VNLA will promote adoption of Best Management Practices.

Strategic Marketing - GOAL: VNLA will promote itself as the leader and resource of the green industry.

What are members problems? How are we going to help them become

more successful?


Same as previous

Classified Ads Help Wanted

If you don’t see your ad here, neither does anyone else!

Call 800-476-0055 or email [email protected]

for advertising information, today!

Ad - TD Watkins

Landscape Foreman: Professional Landscapes of Virginia Inc. is seeking an individual with a good un-derstanding of plants and proper planting procedures, the ability to read and implement commercial landscape plans, the ability to direct the workforce, and possesses a great attitude as well as a strong work ethic. Excellent DMV record, Virginia Certified Horticulturist certifica-tion, and pesticide spray license 3A 3B, are required. Please send resume to [email protected]

Kevin Sullivan Professional Landscapes of Virginia, Inc.

3840 Dawley Rd, Virginia Beach. VA 23457 Fax (757)426-0596

6 April/May/June 2012 VNLA Newsletter

Presidents Message The spring came very early this year and so far everyone appears to be busy. After the last few years this is very positive news. We have seen this before, and I think we are all old-er and wiser then when we had a false recovery. “Cautiously optimistic” is the phase that I have been using and hearing lately. The growers that I have talked to have been ship-ping a lot of material this spring. Plus, the de-sign/build people have also been reporting in-creases in sales activity. After the last 2 hard and long winters, this non winter was a welcome relief. It has let all of us get a very early start, or we never stopped.

We have also all become much more efficient and are all doing more with less. This seems to be the mantra of all business people, whether they are large or small. I love talking to small business people, no matter what busi-ness they may be in. It is like being in an exclusive fraternity of people who still take risks, who become excited when talking about what they do and understanding that it is the spirit and the mettle of the small business per-son that drives the economy.

These people “get it”. These are the people who do not feel “entitled”, but recognize that working smart and hard is still the key to success.

We still have challenges ahead of us. We need to have access to a depend-able and skilled work force. We need

to know what regulations we will be working with. We need to participate in the formulation of these regula-tions / laws or we will be told what to do. Your VNLA Board has been par-ticipating in the “process” and we are working to make a difference.

Please mark VNLA Field Day on your calendar. Sonya Wester-velt and Virginia Rockwell have been putting in an incredible amount of time planning this years’ event. This year the Field Day is at Battlefield Farms in Orange County Virginia. Also keep in mind the Horticulture Garden Gala on Saturday June 9th. The VNLA is a sponsor again this year. Details to follow on both events.

Hoping we all have a great year.

Regards, Steve Grigg, VNLA President 2012

How to Contact Congress

To contact your congressman and senator, go the www.vnla.org and click in the legislation tab/button, and then click on the “Legislative Update” or go directly to: http://capwiz.com/anla/va/home/

Here, you can find your congressman and senators’ contact info and can email them directly from

this link. There are also summaries of current issues and sample letters. “The squeaky wheel gets the oil!”

Vol. 82, No.2; April/May/June 2012 Editor: Jeff Miller

Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc.

383 Coal Hollow Road; Christiansburg, VA 24073-6721 Internet E-mail Address: [email protected]

www.vnla.org (Association Info) www.VirginiaGardening.com (Consumer Info)

Telephone: 540-382-0943 or 1-800-476-0055 Fax: 540-382-2716 Disclaimer: Published for your information, this newsletter is not an

endorsement for individual products or editorial comments.

6 July/August/September 2012 VNLA Newsletter

Presidents Message It is a “Fluid Situation”. We all come in everyday with a plan and then there is what actually happens! So we have learned to be flexible and have learned how to antic-ipate what could be com-ing down the pike. This is called experience. What takes some real skill though is to see how our Industry will change in the future.

If you had told me 20 years ago what we as an Industry would face as challenges today, I would have just shook my head in disbelief. Not only the local and national issues, but the outside factors that affect us. Why does Europe affect my business?

I am amazed at how much we, as an Industry, can offer to our clients to-day. Outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, sitting walls, project management, presenting projects that are really long term investments not just an ex-pense. All items and concepts that 20 years ago were not part of what was expected or accepted as landscaping to the average consumer. Where will we go from here? This is a fascinat-ing question!

One example is meadows. Will meadows become popular in heavy suburban areas? Could meadows real-ly replace the manicured lawn that now is standard? Could commercial sites and HOA’s except this potential trend as an alternative to high

maintenance turf? Will the savings in maintenance cost be enough to encourage people to give it a try? Or will it just be viewed as a place for ticks, snakes and mice to breed?

One of the ways that I try to continue to learn and to see what others think is on the horizon is to meet and talk

with my fellow professionals. By the time you read this, we will have put another VNLA Field Day in the books. What a great way to share ide-as; see what is new and what the an-ticipated trends are. I always come away having learned something. Whether from a classroom setting or a quick 5 to 10 minute conversation on the fly, I feel I come away with some nugget that I can use in my business.

So, what is coming for us tomorrow? Can’t wait to find out!







Support VNLAMember Growers!

online @ www.vnla.org/

For a print copy, contact the VNLAOffice at 800-476-0055

6 January/February/March 2012 VNLA Newsletter

VNLA President’s Message

As we get ready to take on a new year, I look forward to working with the members of the VNLA and members of the VNLA Board. We have added additional experi-ence to the Board to compliment the impres-sive talent we already have serving. Like most of us have done recently in business, the VNLA Board has taken a hard look at who we are and how we do it. We met in Lynch-burg for 2 days to establish a Strate-gic Plan. We discussed how to have the most impact on all areas that af-fect our Industry. This is a tall order. It is not a job for just one person. It is a job that will take the talents and commitment of many people. It also will not happen overnight. Plus, 90% of success is showing up, so we will have to participate to achieve the re-sults we hope to have and stay the course.

We plan on focusing on 3 main areas: Industry Advocacy; Publi-cations and Communications and Research and Education. We will also prioritize issues in each area.

One constant theme though that I have felt, is to make sure we are doing what is best for the Industry. This is a moving target and will vary over time. All people will not agree on what is best. However, as long as we as an Industry and Trade Association are viewed as the professional and experts by the public,

all of us will be doing our jobs.

I wish you all a healthy and pros-perous year.

Steve Grigg,

VNLA President 2012



Here, you can find your congressman and senators’ contact info and can email

them directly from this link. There are also summaries of current issues and sample letters. “The squeaky wheel gets the oil!”

Vol. 82, No.1; January/February/March 2012 Editor: Jeff Miller

Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc.

383 Coal Hollow Road; Christiansburg, VA 24073-6721 Internet E-mail Address: [email protected]

www.vnla.org (Association Info) www.VirginiaGardening.com (Consumer Info)

Telephone: 540-382-0943 or 1-800-476-0055 Fax: 540-382-2716 Disclaimer: Published for your information, this newsletter is not an

endorsement for individual products or editorial comments.


The VNLA website has had a complete overhaul with a new design, re-organized info tabs and updated information.

You can now log in and set up your user name and password. Access and update your contact information See the CEU’s that are recorded for you Virginia Certified Horticulturist Use the online store to order Certification supplies Renew your membership Additional capabilities will be added on an ongoing basis

How to Log in Go to www.vnla.org/

Click on “Activate” in the left column Enter your email address. If you have an email address in the database, it will email your login info and let you setup a user name and password.

Return to the main screen and login with your user name and password.

Go to “My VNLA” and you can see your contact information, sales history, etc.

If you do not have an email in the database, you can activate a new account and enter your information.

Letters – Garden Gala Thank You

On behalf of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and its students and faculty, we would like to thank you for the recent support of the 8th Annual Garden Gala by the Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association.

The Garden Gala is the most important fundraiser of the year for the garden. The Gala helps provide the funding for operating expenses, including student wages. As you know, the facilities are a tremendous asset to the college, the university, and the community. Your contribution will play an important role in enhancing the garden's educational use.

We deeply appreciate your continued support and commitment to the Peggy Lee Hahn Horticulture Garden and Col-lege of Agriculture and Life Sciences. If you should have any questions con-cerning the Peggy Lee Hahn Horticul-ture Garden or any of our other pro-grams, please let us know.

Alan L. Grant, Dean VA Tech CALS

VNLA - Website Upgrade


Presidents Message It is a “Fluid Situation”. We all come in everyday with a plan and then there is what actually happens! So we have learned to be flexible and have learned how to antic-ipate what could be com-ing down the pike. This is called experience. What takes some real skill though is to see how our Industry will change in the future.

If you had told me 20 years ago what we as an Industry would face as challenges today, I would have just shook my head in disbelief. Not only the local and national issues, but the outside factors that affect us. Why does Europe affect my business?

I am amazed at how much we, as an Industry, can offer to our clients to-day. Outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, sitting walls, project management, presenting projects that are really long term investments not just an ex-pense. All items and concepts that 20 years ago were not part of what was expected or accepted as landscaping to the average consumer. Where will we go from here? This is a fascinat-ing question!

One example is meadows. Will meadows become popular in heavy suburban areas? Could meadows real-ly replace the manicured lawn that now is standard? Could commercial sites and HOA’s except this potential trend as an alternative to high

maintenance turf? Will the savings in maintenance cost be enough to encourage people to give it a try? Or will it just be viewed as a place for ticks, snakes and mice to breed?

One of the ways that I try to continue to learn and to see what others think is on the horizon is to meet and talk

with my fellow professionals. By the time you read this, we will have put another VNLA Field Day in the books. What a great way to share ide-as; see what is new and what the an-ticipated trends are. I always come away having learned something. Whether from a classroom setting or a quick 5 to 10 minute conversation on the fly, I feel I come away with some nugget that I can use in my business.

So, what is coming for us tomorrow? Can’t wait to find out!








Letters – Scholarship Thank You

I am both honored and excited to be selected for the Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association's Albert James (Bert) Shoosmith Scholarship.

Your investment in my education is an investment in someone that is committed to being a productive member of society and an investment in someone who truly believes in community. I sincerely appreciate your investment in my future and I promise to put your money to good use.

I will make it my personal mission to be a good steward of your generosity by working as hard at Virginia Tech as I have to date in my high school years.

Thank you for your commitment to my education.

Landon Prever, Shoosmith Scholarship Recipient

Letters – Scholarship Thank You

I would like to thank you for the generous donation I received by the Albert James Shoosmith Scholarship for the 2012-2013 ac-ademic year. The aid will greatly help me as I continue my educa-tion at Virginia Tech this fall.

It is a great privilege to be selected for this scholarship and I would like to let you know how much I appreciate this. I am happy to know that hard work really does pay off Again, thank you so much for select-ing me as a recipient of the Albert James Shoosmith Scholarship!

Sincerely, Elizabeth H. Wilson

VNLA - Beautiful Gardens Update

Since the spring 2012 release of the VT Spirit daylily, interest in this first intro-duction of the Beautiful Gardens plant introduction program has continued to grow. Brent and Becky’s Bulbs, who are currently the single source of the VT Spirit, report they sold out of all plants available this past spring and have a waiting list of close to 2,000 for plants this fall and next spring. This early demand from consumers is a very good sign for the first release through garden centers in 2013.

Growing Virginia production of VT Spirit Daylily

Supplying garden centers with the VT Spirit will require quality production along with a healthy volume of plants. Growing Virginia, in Danville, has committed to the purchase and finishing of 25,000 VT Spirit daylil-ies. The startup plants for this venture came from the tissue culture lab of the Dan River Plant Propagation Cen-ter (DRPPC) in Danville. They will be finished to retail sale size, 5 1/2”pot, allowed to bloom out the first time to guarantee color in the spring of 2013 and then sold to par-ticipating Beautiful Gardens garden centers.

Beautiful Gardens Committee meets with Growing Virginia staff and DRPP staff

The Beautiful Gardens committee will continue to monitor and promote the VT Spirit daylily as it establishes itself in the marketplace. VT Spirit is a patented plant that along with a marketing fee will generate income for the Beautiful Gardens program, IALR and breeder Linda Pinkham from each plant sold. Growing Vir-ginia is a new firm owned and man-aged by Rory Smith and Chris Moore, new VNLA members. Their venture includes plant production, aquaculture, hydroponics and pro-duce.

Beautiful Gardens continues to main-tain evaluation sites for the review of plants being considered for introduc-tion or recommended as ‘plants of distinction’. Rick Baker, VDACS Regional Marketing



Tribute to Dr. Bonnie Appleton

In memoriam: Bonnie Lee Appleton,

professor emerita of horticulture HAMPTON ROADS, Va., July 31, 2012 – Virginia Tech’s College of Ag-riculture and Life Sciences remembers Bonnie Lee Appleton, retired Virginia Cooperative Extension horticulture specialist, who died Saturday, July 21, 2012, in Norfolk, Va.

A member of the Virginia Tech com-munity since 1985, Appleton was based at the Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Vir-ginia Beach until she retired in 2010. She was instrumental in the develop-ment of the horticulture department's off-campus graduate degree program. Appleton taught graduate classes and served as major advisor to more than 60 master’s degree students.

Appleton developed an innovative, na-tionally recognized Extension program focused on the development and deliv-ery of research-based technology on production and management strategies for the nursery, landscape, and arbori-culture industries.

“Anyone who met or worked with Bonnie quickly realized what an amazing person she was — always going at 100 miles per hour with multiple projects in the works,” said Laurie Fox, research associate at the Hampton Roads Agricultural Research

and Extension Center. “She positively impacted so many people — from hor-ticulture students of all ages to col-leagues, peers, and green industry pro-fessionals. Bonnie’s enthusiasm, crea-tivity, and love of horticulture, espe-cially trees, were obvious.”

In 2006, Appleton was recognized by the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences with the Certificate of Teach-ing Excellence for her dedication to teaching and the positive impact her love of horticulture made on students.

Appleton strove each day to offer her students a personalized educational experience. Her extraordinary success as a teacher can be attributed to her vision, ingenuity, and ability to connect with a variety of audiences.

According to her colleagues, Appleton traveled extensively, enjoyed teaching, and never hesitated to share infor-mation in whatever format was appro-priate: workshops, classes, presenta-tions, scientific journals, trade and popular press articles, interviews, ex-pert testimony, extension publications, and books.

“She had a passion for horticulture, especially arboriculture, and shared that enthusiasm with all who knew her,” said Pete Schultz, director, Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Ex-tension Center.

Appleton received her bachelor’s de-gree and master’s degree from the Uni-versity of Delaware and a Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University.

In accordance with her wishes, there will be no memorial service, and her ashes will be scattered on the Chesa-peake Bay. A tree will be planted at the Virginia Tech Hampton Roads Agricul-tural Research and Extension Center in her memory. Correspondence can be addressed to her parents, Fred and Bobbie Appleton, 100 O’Brien Ct., Suffolk, VA 23434.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to a charity of choice or to the following: * Virginia Tech Master Gardener As-sociation Endowed Fund, Virginia Tech Foundation, Virginia Tech, Uni-

versity Development (0336), Attention: Gift Accounting, Blacksburg, VA * Virginia Nursery and Landscape As-sociation Research Fund, care of Exec Director Jeff Miller [email protected] . * Mid-Atlantic Chapter, International Society of Arboriculture, care of Exec Director Nancy Herwig, [email protected]

Photo by Karen Kelly, Shipp & Wilson

She positively impacted so many peo-ple, from horticulture students of all ages to colleagues, peers and green industry professionals. Bonnie’s enthu-siasm, creativity, and love of horticul-ture were obvious. She traveled exten-sively, enjoyed teaching, and never hesitated to share information in what-ever format was appropriate - work-shops, classes, presentations, scientific journals, trade and popular press arti-cles, interviews, expert testimony, ex-tension publications, and books. Bonnie was instrumental in the development of our unique off-campus MS program, and her biggest legacy is surely the very positive impact that she had on so many graduate students. Since the first graduation class in 1995, more than 60 students have gotten their diplomas through this program, most under the direct tutelage of Dr. Appleton. We will miss her, but we wish her well on that long list of post-retirement projects.

Excerpt from VA Tech Horticulture Dept SEEDS AlumniNnews Vol. 18, 2011



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Possible Liner Sources: McHutchison Jack Campbell www.mchutchison.com Briggs Plant Propagators David Johnson [email protected] Spring Meadow Nursery, Inc Iseli Nursery North Creek Nurseries VNLA Member growers are needed to produce these plants for the 2013 marketing sea-son. If you are now producing these plants are can begin production of these Plants of

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VNLA Newsletter July/August 2006 7

LettersThank you for supporting our 7th An-nual Legislative Golf Tournament on June 12 at Mattaponi Springs Golf Club. We had a terrific response with 112 players including a number of elected and appointed state officials, 18-hole sponsors, three food and bev-erage sponsors and numerous spon-sors of gifts and prizes. This is a sub-stantial increase from past years thanks to your efforts.

This event is not only a very enjoy-able way to promote agribusiness to all participants, but it also contributes to the Council’s ability to represent our industry’s interest throughout the year with the General Assembly, Governor’s office state agencies, congressional delegation and the gen-eral public. Our significant accom-plishments are attributable to the sup-port you provide. Thank you.

We look forward to your joining us

again nest year for out 8th Annual Legislative gold Tournament. Sincerely, Virginia Agribusiness Council

Editor’s Note: The VNLA was a team sponsor, prize and give away contributor

and a hole sponsor.

Arbor Day Thanks Many thanks for the wonderful Swamp White Oak that was donated to Lorton Library for Arbor Day this year. It’s doing well and sprouting new growth even as I write.

An article about the ceremony was featured on the library website www.fairfaxcounty.gov/library/branches/lo/oaktreeplanting.htm. It was a lovely day and I know our neighbors will enjoy the tree for many years.

Sincerely, Lorton County Library

Editor’s Note: Vice-Presiden,, Lou Kobus, provided the tree

on behalf of VNLA.

VNLA –Summer Board Meeting Minutes

Friday, June 23, 2006; 9:00 am to 12:30 pm

Virginia Room, Hampton Inn, Front Royal, VA

9:00 a.m. Call to Order – Richard Johnson, President called the meeting to order with the following people present: Lizzy Pine, Lesley Pine, Jeff Miller, Bonnie Appleton, Duane Shumaker, Butch Gaddy, and Billy Crigler.

Guest Introductions – Bill Dutcher, President of the CVNLA, was intro-duced and welcomed to the meeting.

Secretary’s Report, Butch Gaddy reported that the minutes had been printed in the VNLA Newsletter and emailed to the Board. A motion was made to accept the minutes, seconded and passed.

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News - Brookmeade Sod Farm

Receives Agribusiness Special Recognition Award

(left to right): Ginger Brooking, Chair-man of the Virginia Agribusiness Council

Board of Directors Eric Holter, Louis Brooking, and Louie Brooking

Doswell, Virginia – Brookmeade Sod Farm, Inc., a family owned farm business located in Hanover County, has received the Virginia Agribusi-ness Council's 2012 Special Recogni-

tion of an Agribusiness Award. Council Board of Directors Chairman Eric Holter of Staunton presented the award during a meeting of the Virgin-ia Agribusiness Council Board of Directors in Doswell on April 26.

Louis and Ginger Brooking started Brookmeade Sod Farm, Inc. in 1968. Today the farm operation includes 300 acres and 16 employees. Turf produced at Brookmeade Sod Farm can be seen growing throughout the Richmond metro area – from Kings Dominion, the Innsbrook Office Complex, Hollywood Cemetery, and the Virginia War Memorial, to many housing communities where all new homes must have a front lawn before closing.

Not only have the Brookings built a successful business, but they have also selflessly contributed to the agri-business community. The Brookings offer plots of land on their farm for research by the Turf Department at Virginia Tech and have endowed a

scholarship for a graduate student in the Department. The farm is also con-stantly offered as an open-classroom to educate the public and members of the industry, offering "Spring Green Lawn Clinics" for homeowners to learn about sod, seed, general lawn care and more, and hosting the Farm Bureau's Young Farmers and Agri-culture in the Classroom programs.

The Brooking's long-time friend and representative to the Virginia General Assembly, Delegate John Cox (R-55th) commented during the presen-tation, "I know of no other couple that shares such enthusiasm of their industry than Louis and Ginger." Council Chairman Eric Holter stated, "Brookmeade has shown a long-term commitment to not only quality ser-vice and industry involvement, but to public education as well." He went on to say, "In recognition of their suc-cess, their commitment to the indus-try, and their support of the Council, we are proud to award Brookmeade

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Sod Farm with the 2012 Special Recognition of an Agribusiness award." The Virginia Agribusiness Council repre-sents agricultural and forestry producers,

suppliers, marketers, processors and commodity associations in the Common-wealth with a unified voice through its

government affairs activities. The Coun-cil has a combined membership of over

40,000. For more information on the Vir-ginia Agribusiness Council, visit

www.va-agribusiness.org Contact: Blair Krusz, (804) 643-3555,

([email protected] )

News – State Fair: New Partnership

Between Farm Bureau and Universal Fairs will help build

State Fair Of Virginia

State Fair is Back! To help preserve the tradition of the State Fair of Virginia, the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation has entered into a formal partnership with Uni-versal Fairs LLC of Cordova, Tenn.

The Richmond-based nonprofit agri-

cultural organization will be involved in developing the agricultural com-ponent of the fair, which Universal Fairs purchased at auction in May. The fair's former operators declared Chapter 7 bankruptcy earlier in the spring.

Called Commonwealth Fairs and Events LLC, the new partnership will run the state fair as well as other shows and events at the 331-acre property in Caroline County. The first order of business will be to hold an exciting new state fair this fall from Sept. 28 through Oct. 7.

"Virginia Farm Bureau Federation and Universal Fairs have put together a partnership that we feel will help retain and grow the agricultural component of the fair," explained VFBF President Wayne F. Pryor. "Universal Fairs has a proven track record of putting on suc-cessful fairs in several locations around the country. We are very excited and look forward to working with them for many years."

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May/June 2007 VNLA Newsletter 12

VNLA – Photo Contest

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A winner and prize for each Quarterly VNLA Newsletter-4 total per year.

One Grand Prize winner chosen at the end of the year.

VNLA Photo Contest

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Details at: http://tinyurl.com/cglkgos or go to www.vnla.org, click on tabs “membership” and “Photo Contest”

February 2011 - Brian D. Ross, Sr

December 2011 - Michele Fletcher

August 2011 - Jennifer Seay

October 2011 - Dwayne Jones

April 2012 - Michele Fletcher

June 2011 - Kelly Connoley-Phillips


VNLA - Photo Contest Rules

1. The contest is open to any pho-tographer (amateur and professional) except members of Board of Direc-tors of VNLA and their families. En-tries are limited to VNLA members and their staff.

2. Each photographer may enter up to three (3) digital images per Newsletter deadline (see #6). E-mail images to [email protected]. Include your name, phone number and occu-pation. . One winning entry per photographer per year. You may re-enter non-winning entries.

3. Please e-mail images separately. Feel free to elaborate on any story surrounding the photograph. Photos should be 300 dpi high resolution.

4. All photographs submitted must have been taken within the past five years.

5. All photographs must be related to the Green Industry. The subject can be located in a nursery, back yard, or in a landscape--just so it is obviously related to the green indus-try profession.

6. Deadline for submission is 5:00 p.m. on the Newsletter Copy Dead-line, which is the 15th of January, March, May, July, September and November. All submissions become the property of the VNLA.

7. Model Release forms are required with each photograph which contains a clearly identifiable person. Release forms are available from the VNLA office, on request, and are also avail-able for download from the VNLA website at Model release in MS Word format or Adobe PDF format.

Judging done by the VNLA Communication Committee.

All decisions are final.

Winner of the July/August/September 2012 Photo Contest

Photo Winner: Lisa Lipsey Beautiful Gardens Program Director, Blacksburg, VA

Photo was taken early June morning, 2012, at the Virginia Tech Hahn Horticulture Garden of the pond

in the Jane Andrews Memorial Stream Garden.

Win $50, submit your photos!

Good Luck and Happy Photographing!



[“State Fair” continued from page 13]

UF's events include large fairs in Tennessee, Georgia and Washington state, a festival in Arizona and a vari-ety of shows and expos throughout the United States.

"Universal Fairs has extensive expe-rience in running family-friendly, entertaining fairs, and Virginia Farm Bureau brings an exciting agricultural component to the mix," said OF Pres-ident Mark Lovell. "We are new to Virginia, but we know how to run a fair. With Virginia Farm Bureau, a trusted organization that has been around for more than 85 years, we will be able to bring together the best of both worlds. I think that by work-ing together we can help strengthen Virginia's agricultural stature and vis-ibility through various shows, events and exhibits."

Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell ex-tended congratulations to Farm Bu-reau on the partnership, which he said "will further enrich the common-wealth's long-standing tradition that is the State Fair of Virginia. For more than 100 years, the state fair has edu-cated and entertained millions of Vir-ginians. Today's announcement helps to ensure that future generations of Virginians will continue to experi-ence the best of what the fair has to offer. In addition, the Farm Bureau's investment will guarantee that agri-culture, Virginia's largest industry, will be featured prominently—as it should be—at the fair for years to come."

New agriculture-related events being planned include a 5-kilometer race sponsored by the Virginia Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom, which strives to improve the farm literacy of schoolchildren, as well as the Real Virginia Virtual Farm Tour. The tour will engage families at the fair and at home with a live online discussion about farming practices. Viewers will have their questions an-swered by a panel of farm experts and

will "tour" a half-dozen Virginia farms via video. At each farm, the owners will be on camera to describe their operations.

"Being the state's largest farm organi-zation, and having as part of our mis-sion the preservation of agriculture, we felt it was paramount to step up to the plate and assist with the fair," Pryor said. "It is a vital tool for help-ing the public understand the im-portance of the agriculture industry. We plan to carry this out through teaching exhibits, shows and com-petitive events that include livestock, poultry, fiber and produce.

"Equally important to us is retaining the scholarship programs for youth who compete in livestock and equine shows through the FFA and 4-H or-ganizations," Pryor added. "We also plan to continue competitions in pho-tography, arts and crafts and other disciplines."

Caroline County Board of Supervi-sors Chairman Wayne Acors said the county "is gratified that its months-long recruitment of the Farm Bureau to participate in the State Fair of Vir-ginia has resulted in the announced partnership. The Farm Bureau is the premier agricultural organization in the commonwealth and brings with it stability, integrity and a large mem-bership that will be welcome in Caro-line County at the state fair and at many other events. The State Fair of Virginia will be better than ever at The Meadow Event Park."

With more than 150,000 members in 88 county Farm Bureaus, VFBF is Virginia's largest farmers' advocacy group. Farm Bureau is a non-governmental, nonpartisan, voluntary organization committed to protecting Virginia's farms and ensuring a safe, fresh and locally grown food supply.

For more information, contact Greg Hicks, VFBF vice president of communi-cations, at 804-290-1139. Virginia Farm

Bureau Richmond, VA

News - PLNA, MAC Events Partner on

PANTS Trade Show August 3, 2012; HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association (PLNA) today an-nounced that it has entered into a partnership with MAC Events, LLC of Spring Lake, New Jersey to pro-duce its trade show, the Penn Atlantic Nursery Trade Show (PANTS). Alt-hough MAC Events produces shows throughout the country, PANTS will be their first show in Pennsylvania.

“We are pleased to partner with MAC Events on PANTS,” said Jim Mac-Kenzie, president of Octoraro Native Plant Nursery, Kirkwood, Pa. and the chairman of the PLNA board of di-rectors. “MAC Events brings to PANTS extensive experience in pro-ducing green industry shows for both the trade and the public. We believe our exhibitors and attendees will ben-efit by this partnership.”

PANTS long has been the East Coast’s premier summer trade show for the green industry. This past week, PANTS celebrated its fortieth year.

MAC Events is excited to have the opportunity to produce a show like PANTS,” said Kevin McLaughlin, partner of MAC Events. “With our experience in producing green indus-try shows, PANTS is the type of show that fits perfectly with our company’s growth strategy.”

MAC Events also produces NJ Plants – Professional Landscape & Nursery Trade Show each January in Edison, N.J. in partnership with the New Jer-sey Nursery and Landscape Associa-tion. The company also produces several public garden shows as well as trade and public shows in other industries and geographical areas.

MAC Events will handle show pro-duction and logistics, marketing, advertising, and booth and spon-



sorship sales for PANTS. PLNA will assist with educational pro-gramming, show promotion and contacts with Pennsylvania’s green industry.

About MAC Events: MAC Events, LLC has been producing high-quality business-to-consumer trade shows in a variety of industries and markets since 1969 throughout the United States. MAC Events produces land-scaping & nursery trade shows, home & garden shows and flower & garden shows concentrating their efforts in the Northeast. MAC Events is ex-panding into the business of produc-ing trade events and providing pro-fessional event management for or-ganizations, associations and busi-nesses in other U.S. Markets. For more information, go to www.macevents.com

About PLNA: The Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association is the leading trade association repre-senting Pennsylvania's $6.8 billion green industry. Its 750 member land-scape contractors, retail garden cen-ters, wholesale nurseries and green-houses produce outdoor living envi-ronments that improve economic val-ue, air quality, water quality and hu-man health. Learn more at www.PLNA.com.

Gregg Robertson, President, PLNA 717.238.2033, www.PLNA.com

Kevin McLaughlin, Partner, MAC Events 732-449-4004 x116

News – VT Horticulture Dept. Promotion Video

Attached is a short promotional mov-ie about our department. Thanks to Sarah and everyone who helped put this together. Help spread the word!

http://viscomm.unirel.vt.edu/video_upload/tmp/Final%20Hort%20video.mov J. Roger Harris, Professor and Head, VT

Department of Horticulture

News - ANLA & OFA Joint Association

Washington, D.C. - The American Nursery and Landscape Association’s (ANLA) board of directors voted this week to explore the joint formation of a new trade association with OFA - The Association of Horticulture Pro-

fessionals. The vote was prompted by a recommendation from a joint work-ing group of elected ANLA and OFA leaders. Their recommendation fol-lowed the announcement earlier this year of a joint venture between the two associations. “The first question we needed to address was whether our members and the broader industry

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would benefit from our two associa-tions working together,” says ANLA President Bob Lyons, Sunleaf Nurse-ry, LLC (OH). “The clear answer that emerged was yes.”

According to ANLA board member Dan Mulhall, Mulhall’s (NE), “The two organizations bring very different strengths to the table with little over-lap.” Dan explains that ANLA offers the industry’s most-respected gov-ernment relations program and execu-tive education while OFA brings a world-class trade show and strong technical and management education. “This is not about cutting,” says Dan, “It’s about increasing the program-ming and services available to both memberships while increasing the audiences that support those pro-grams.”

The task force’s recommendation is that a new organization be established no sooner than July 2013 and no later than January 2014. The new organi-zation will replace both ANLA and OFA.

“The rest of the details are left to be decided,” says President Lyons. “Once you decide that something is the right thing to do, then you figure out how to get it done.” Pending a similar approval by the OFA board of directors, the two organizations will establish a process for defining the structure and activities of the new organization and communicate that process to their leaders and member-ship.

In further development of the joint venture, following the scheduled re-tirement of ANLA Executive Vice President Bob Dolibois at the end of 2012, Michael Geary will become the chief staff executive of both OFA and ANLA beginning on January 1, 2013. The organizations will continue to be governed separately but Geary will lead the day-to-day operations of both associations.

“In the meantime,” says Mulhall, “the activities of the joint venture, an-

nounced earlier this year, will continue, including working together on govern-ment relations activities and developing a new executive and key management education program, Next Level, which is being announced at the 2012 OFA Short Course, and will be held at the end of January 2013.”

For more information on the partnership between ANLA and OFA and the Next

Level conference visit www.onevoiceoneindustry.com . For ad-ditional information contact: Jonathan Bardzik, Director of Marketing and In-

dustry Relations 202-789-2900

News - ANLA and OFA First Joint Event

OFA – The Association of Horticul-ture Professionals and The American Nursery and Landscape Association (ANLA) are scheduled to announce the development of a new, joint event on Monday, July 16 at the OFA Short Course. The new event, named "Next Level," will be held January 31 - Feb-ruary 2, 2013 at the Gaylord Opry-land Hotel in Nashville, TN. Accord-ing to OFA CEO Michael Geary, "Every individual, every organization has a next level, the next dimension of performance and results to realize. The Next Level event is designed to help participants clarify their own next level, expose them to the ideas and insights to help bridge that gap, and connect them to like-minded col-leagues who can support their jour-ney." The Next Level event will be unique in its focus on education that focuses attendees on working on their business, not just in their business.

ANLA and OFA have retained the services of nationally-recognized ed-ucational event designer Jeffrey Cufaude to help plan this meeting. He will work with a planning committee made up of members from both or-ganizations. With direction from vol-unteer leaders, an initial meeting with the staffs of OFA and ANLA, held in June, defined the goals for the con-ference. Bob Dolibois, ANLA's Ex-ecutive Vice President stated, "Our

industry faces a new normal in terms of the economy, our customers and our competitors. The top industry firms of the next 20 years need to identify how their businesses have to change in order to enjoy continued success. This meeting is the place where that will happen."

The educational program is currently under development. Further details will be available at the end of Sep-tember. For more information on the partnership between OFA and ANLA and the Next Level event visit www.onevoiceoneindustry.com .

ANLA, a Washington, DC-based trade association, represents green industry business professionals seek-ing market leadership through advo-cacy with our nation’s government, a community of industry innovators and experts, and unique, profitability-focused programming, products and services. Through the Lighthouse Program, a partnership with green industry state and regional associa-tions, ANLA represents more than 22,000 businesses before Congress and to the White House.

OFA – The Association of Horticul-ture Professionals is the leading hor-ticulture educational association in the United States. It is a non-profit, all-industry, educational organization and its core purpose/mission is “to support and advance professional horticulture.” Industry segments served include: garden centers, greenhouses, nurseries, retail and wholesale florists, and interior plants-capers. OFA is especially known for its outstanding publications and its annual OFA Short Course, U.S. hor-ticulture’s premier convention and marketplace. The next Short Course will take place on July 14-17, 2012 in Columbus, Ohio USA. For additional information contact: Jon-athan Bardzik, ANLA Director of Market-ing and Industry Relations, Laura Kun-kle, OFA Director – Communications &

Marketing



News – 8th Annual Garden Gala – “Key West”

More than 225 attendees enjoyed a bit of "Margaritaville" in the Hahn Horticulture Garden for one beautiful evening on June 9, 2012. The Key West Band of Roanoke set the mood with tropical favorites. Blue Ridge Catering created fantastic hors d'oeuvre and drinks. More than 100 items were featured in a silent auction as well as an exciting live auction with auctioneer Steve Culver.

The first Garden Gala was held in 2005; it has grown over the years into the best darn garden party in Blacks-burg. Gala ticket sales, sponsorships, and auction proceeds this year netted more than $17,000 in operating funds for the Hahn Horticulture Garden. The Garden receives little in the way of operating funds from Virginia Tech, so the Gala fundraiser is critical to helping pay for student wages, maintenance, and garden renovations.

Our Honorary Chairs this year were T. Marshall Hahn, Jr. and Jean Russell Hahn of Blacksburg. Marshall Hahn and his family have done so much for the garden over the years, from constructing the Pavilion and Meadow Garden to ongoing sup-port for maintenance and more. This year, Anne Hahn Hurst donated the highlight of the live auction – a week's stay at the beautiful and his-toric Pagitt House in Old Town Key West that went for an all-time, Gala-record $3,400.

Steve Grigg, Holly Scoggins and Juanita Grigg welcome guests to the “Key West”

Garden Gala Honorary Hosts for the 2012 gala were long-time Garden Gala Spon-sors and departmental supporters Steve and Juanita Grigg, of Grigg Design, Inc., a successful de-sign/build firm in Manassas Park. Steve graduated from Virginia Tech in 1976 with a BS Degree in Horti-culture. Steve is active on all manner of green industry and Virginia Tech boards and advisory committees. Ste-ve is currently the president of the Virginia Nursery and Landscape As-

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sociation. In March, 2010 Steve was selected as the Outstanding Alumnus from the Department of Horticulture at VA Tech for 2009-10. His wife and business partner Juanita has an Accounting degree from George Ma-son University and a storied career working with non-profit and charity organizations prior to joining Grigg Design. They both serve on the Advi-sory Board for the Department of Horticulture and generously give of their time as frequent guest lecturers. Steve and Juanita have also chosen to include the Horticulture Department in their estate plan and are members of Virginia Tech's Legacy Society. And as Key West is one of their fa-vorite vacation getaways – the Gala theme this year was especially appro-priate!

Finally, from all of us associated with the Garden, we appreciate the spon-sors, auction item donors, gala guests, and gala volunteers – without your generosity, the Garden wouldn't be what it is today!

"Holly would like to express her

heartfelt thanks for the continued support of the garden by the

VNLA and its members." – Dr. Holly Scoggins, [email protected]

News – Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Quarantine

for all of Virginia The Virginia Department of Agri-

culture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has expanded the Emer-

ald Ash Borer (EAB) Quarantine to include the entire Commonwealth

of Virginia.

emerald ash borer Agrilus planipennis

photo by David Cappaert This action became necessary after the recent detection of EAB in the counties of Buchanan, Caroline, Giles, Hanover, Lee, Prince Edward, Stafford and Warren. The quarantine previously included Arlington, Char-lotte, Clarke, Fairfax, Fauquier, Fred-erick, Halifax, Loudoun, Lunenburg, Mecklenburg, Pittsylvania and Prince William counties and the cities of Alexandria, Danville, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, Manassas Park and Winchester.

Under this statewide quarantine, the regulated articles, which include ash trees, green (non-heat treated) ash lumber and ash wood products, as well as hardwood firewood, are no longer subject to localized movement restrictions and may now move freely within the state.

For additional information about the Emerald Ash Borer Quarantine call the Virginia Department of Agricul-ture and Consumer Services at 804.786.3515

For details about the Emerald Ash Borer, see the

VT Factsheet:

http://pubs.ext.vt.edu/2904/2904-1290/2904-1290.html

This is the link to EAB information posted on the VDACS website:

http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/releases-a/072612eab.shtml

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Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Research Update from Stanton Gill

The University of Maryland Exten-sion held an emerald ash borer con-ference for foresters and city manag-ers to discuss how to plan out control strategies for emerald ash borer. One of the speakers, Cliff Sadof, Purdue University, has an excellent emerald ash borer calculator program that can be used to calculate the cost of taking ash trees down and/or treat-ing them with insecticide to extend their life.

You can look at this calculator at www.treebenefits.com/calculator/

Cliff also talked about the best time for chemical applications. If you are using imidacloprid as a soil injection, then spring applications are best. For imidacloprid, sometime between mid-March and id-May is best. You will get one year of control. If you use dinotefuran (Safari, Transtect) then a spring application of mid-March to early June, either as a soil drench, basal drench or injection. You also get one year of control. If you are using emamectin benzoate (TreeAge) then applications in the spring can go up to late June and still be effective.

This material at the mid-level rate gives 2 years of control. At the very high end rate it has been reported to give 3 years of control. The label says two years of control. TPM/IPM Weekly Report for Arborists,

Landscape Managers & Nursery Manag-ers, University of Maryland Extension, August 3, 2012 www.ipmnet.umd.edu



VNLA – Member Profile: Fred Duis,

Duis Nursery

Fred Duis When one enters hyper-adulthood, one doesn’t sit and ponder his favor-ite flower, his favorite color, or his favorite quote. What one does is to reflect on his body of work…beginning with his choice of careers and ending with his impact on family and community. And one must choose a metric with which to meas-ure his life. Should it be measured in who ends up with the most toys? Should it be measured in numbers of friends? Is there a happiness quo-tient? Or should it be the assurance of nirvana, paradise or heaven?

Charlotte in the office

Of course the real metric that I use to measure my life is my Charlotte, our Mac and Sarah, their Sandy and Greg and the beautiful grandchildren Ella,

Will, Eli, and Ruby. But for the pur-poses of this publication, I concen-trate my comments on those things that pertain to our common profes-sions.

I grew up in a household in which words prevailed….the spellings of words, the arrangements of words, the meanings of words, and the beau-ty of words. My mother was an Eng-lish teacher and her greatest fear was that one of her children would make a grammatical mistake in public and embarrass her. So we were drilled on sentence structure, spelling, and syn-tax constantly but not in a pedagogi-cal manner. Every word that we ut-tered was monitored. Every sentence was parsed. Every mistake was ad-dressed. But it was accomplished in such a nice way that an observer would scarcely notice the correction. For instance, if I said that an event was “incredulous”, she would re-spond by asking me why it was so “incredible”, a gentle but effective correction of verbal course. She was the ultimate communicator.

My father felt the same way about plants. To him plants, individual plants, were in the realm of the sa-cred. Having grown up in a taciturn German family on the Illinois prairie, he learned early on that life could be grim and the environment harsh. But out of that rich prairie loam came the abundant grace of the plant kingdom that led him to a career in horticul-ture. He was first a professor and, ultimately, a grower of ornamentals and the most beautiful vegetable gar-dens ever. Plants responded to his care as if they could feel his love. To him, gardening was akin to worship. To him, we each had an obligation to grow good food and feed our families with the coming bounty. Gardening was an opportunity to be part of something bigger than the trivialities of everyday life. It was an opportuni-ty to be a functioning part of the bio-sphere. And by gardening, through his knowledge and perseverance, he could create sustenance where there

had been none. His validation was brought to the house in bushel bas-kets. He was the ultimate gardener.

But when I was young, I detested the seemingly endless days in the garden. I once described the scale of our gar-den by saying that we couldn’t see the ends of the rows for the curvature of the earth. And there was the time that, at the end of a row of Lima beans that I was planting (by then I was in the next county), I just dumped the remainder of the beans in the end of the row, not realizing that within a few days a veritable forest of beans would appear at that spot. My father soon figured out what his son had done. Although he was a man of few words, he expressed his displeas-ure eloquently. But I remained his son.

Fred’s parents: William & Sarah Duis

Over time, I began to appreciate what both of my parents stood for. And when it became time to choose a ca-reer, horticulture seemed to be a dis-cipline that could satisfy the need to express one’s self as well as the need to work with a medium through which the dynamics of growth, sea-sonal change, and interesting physi-ology could be intellectually chal-lenging as well.



And so, armed with a B.S. in Horti-culture from Virginia Tech, I set off on a life of lessons learned and in-tense satisfaction.

Landscaping from 1969 until 1981, I soon learned that using plants in an artistic manner required not only the application of artistic principals, but the application of sound cultural prac-tices. There were no short cuts and just because I thought that a certain plant might look good in a certain site, I could not force the issue. There were no substitutes for good site selection, good watering practices and good planting techniques. And no amount of rhetoric would allow me to talk around the science.

In 1981, my father died and I had the choice of continuing to landscape or buy the nursery and continue my ca-reer as a grower. Having tired of the frustrations of landscaping, I looked longingly for a career in which I could control more of the variables and in which I could deal with per-sons more knowledgeable in plant science. In 1981, container growing was in its infancy. Much of the mate-rial that we used was field grown and

consequently had to be purchased and harvested during the dormant season and managed throughout the remain-der of the year. As is the case now, weather conditions determined when and how successfully work could be done. And no matter how well a job was carried out, its ultimate fate would be determined by the quality of the maintenance by the owner.

So, in 1981, I continued my father’s growing operation with a focus on

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serving customers who had business-es much like I had had. We featured a broad range of ornamentals from shrubs to trees to perennials so that a small landscaping firm could come here and get nearly all that it needed to complete a job. Over the years we focused more on container growing until, at the present time, all that we produce is containerized.

Nursery Staff

Things were going along well until 1989 when I lost a bid for county su-pervisor after having filled an unex-pired term. I had committed the trea-sonous act of voting for our first zon-ing ordinance and of sponsoring a smoking ordinance that caused one wrinkled, wheezing citizen to say at a packed-house public hearing, “Where is my rights at?” At that point I re-dedicated myself to the business but for some reason felt somewhat unful-filled. Our two wonderful children were growing up and doing well and they didn’t need their father as much. All day long, I was doing the things necessary to grow ornamentals. But could my mother’s influence be com-ing to the surface? Was it that I wasn’t expressing myself adequately? Was I missing the comfort that words, torrents of words, can give?

Why did I write my first article for the VNLA Newsletter and what was it about? I can’t remember. But I knew that Jeff had given me a chance to release. Articles appeared featuring issues tangentially related to our industry such as education, ra-tional man vs. faithful man (What was I thinking?), and a run-away cow

which almost ruined the Tour du Pont as it entered Lynchburg. However, in 1995, I actually read one of the arti-cles that I had written and it changed my life…and I hope the little city of Bedford. My thesis was that the value of urban gardens in mitigating their surroundings (stabilizing property values, attracting visitors, improving appearances) can serve as a valuable tool in reversing creeping blight. And, if my thesis proved to be cor-rect, you and I, as horticultural pro-fessionals, could be validated. Fur-thermore, this was a chance to use my mother’s beloved words and my fa-ther’s beloved plants to prove that we all had chosen careers that have made differences in people’s lives.

The Wharton Garden in the Beginning

I really didn’t apply the concept to our own community until I had lunch with a friend who was an avid gar-dener and the City Attorney for Bed-ford. Will Berry and I began to apply my concept to the area of our city that surrounded the Bedford Public Li-brary which was being expanded. Just below the library were three historic structures that, at that time, were ei-

ther slated to be razed or were being abandoned by their owners. It hap-pened that there were significant boxwood and wildflower gardens that had been established in the 1930’s which were surrounding the two houses. All were shaded by venerable Pecan trees of the same era. We named it The Wharton Garden and it is our community’s effort to honor the garden legacies of Mrs. Louise Wharton and Mrs. Eloise Gregory while, at the same time, restoring his-toric properties that were built either by or through the efforts of John Wharton.

The Garden plan was prepared by Robert McDuffie, Landscape Archi-tect, and it includes within its bound-aries, the Bedford Central Library, the Charles and Louise Wharton House (circa 1886), the John Whar-ton Cottage (1848), the Bower Center for the Arts (originally St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1843, and The Bedford Christian Church, Disciples, 1924-2005). The Garden is situated on both City property and property belonging to the Wharton Founda-tion. The Wharton Cottage and Bow-er Center properties are set aside as a permanent garden easement for the enjoyment of the citizens of the community. All improvements to the area of the Garden belonging to the City have become the property of the City.

The Wharton Foundation began restor-ing the Wharton and Gregory gardens in 1997. Over the years we have re-ceived matching grants from the City of Bedford as well as donations from businesses and individuals. Each year, the Wharton Foundation receives gifts-in-kind that allay the costs of annuals and other plants. Much of the labor that has helped establish the Garden has come from horticultural professionals, Master Gardeners and other volunteers at no cost to the Foundation or to the City of Bedford. Instrumental has been the contribution of Clare Robertson, our area’s preeminent horticulturist.



area’s preeminent horticulturist.

The Wharton Garden We do have ongoing expenses in-volved in Garden maintenance. We hire a contractor to mow the grass and remove leaves in the fall. We pay an employee to water, remove trash, and maintain the annual and perennial beds during the growing season. We pay for the water that is needed to keep the Garden in prime condition. There have been expenses each year to remediate the gazebo and many of the benches because of vandalism. And we have supplemented the cost of donated statuary.

In 2005, Dr. John Bower, a Missis-sippi nephrologists and a Bedford native son, gave us a single gift of $243,000.00 to purchase what is now the Bower Center for the Arts which had been the Bedford Christian Church. Dr. Bower did this in honor of his parents. His mother, Minnie, was a dedicated gardener and his fa-ther, Mitchell, was a tenor in the Presbyterian Church choir. Would we have gotten this gift if there had been no garden surrounding the Center? I think possibly not. The Bower Center is now a thriving arts education and performance center which features eclectic genres of music along with a music lab, a pottery lab, and an arts exhibition hall all in the midst of a beautifully landscaped setting.

Indeed, the close relationship be-tween the City of Bedford and the Wharton Foundation is an example of a well-established and successful public/private partnership. Over the years, the idea of a garden’s being the metaphor for restoring an urban area that was somewhat challenged by building neglect and owner flight has attracted well over $700,000 in pri-vate investment. Businesses have been established in the area and the

Bower Center for the Arts has been added to the City’s tax rolls.

Our Wharton Foundation exercise has validated what we horticulturists do. Our products and services can con-tribute significantly to the economic and cultural well-being of a commu-nity. I might even venture to say that we are instrumental in establishing the spaces that are most fit for human habitation.

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Duis Nursery Office Staff: Helen

In retrospect, I am thinking of every-one who has contributed to our busi-ness’ success: employees, customers, vendors, family members, Coopera-tive Extension, VT staff, VDACS inspectors, AEP and Verizon repair-men. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t appreciate the landscaper

who is fighting scheduling and site anomalies and the garden center clerk who is undergoing the tedium of making a retail plant sale. Bless your hearts. Put us all together and we make a great team.

Thanks to you all. Fred Duis

Bio-sketch: Fred Duis Born: May 14, 1947

Educated: Bedford County Public Schools

Graduated: Liberty High School, 1965

Graduated: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, B. S. Horticulture, 1969

Married: Charlotte Padgett Duis, 1969-

Children: Dr. Frederick McClelland Duis, Jr. (Dr. Sandra K. Duis) and Sarah D. Thomasson (Gregory A. Thomasson)

Grandchildren: Ella Francis Thomasson, William McClelland Duis, Eli Archer Thomasson, Ruby Lillian Duis

President: Duis Nursery, Inc.

Past Board Member: Virginia Nursery and Landscape Association

Past Chairman: Beautiful Gar-dens™ Plant Introduction Project

Founding Member and Former President: Wharton Memorial Foun-dation

Supervisor: Bedford County, 1989

Former Member and Former Pres-ident: Bedford Host Lions Club

Virginia Nurseryman of the Year: 2007

Former Member Board of Direc-tors: Bedford Chamber of Commerce

Member: Bedford Lutheran Church

Fred Duis, www.duisnursery.com

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VNLA - Certification Quiz Article #61

If you are a Virginia Certified Horti-culturist, read this article and answer the quiz questions on page 35, fax/mail the Quiz Answer postcard and get 1 CEU towards your re-certification requirements.

adapted from the Urban Nutrient Management Handbook Content Coordinators: Michael Goat-ley Jr., Professor, Crop and Soil Envi-ronmental Sciences, Virginia Tech

Kevin Hensler, Research Specialist Senior, Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences, Virginia Tech

Published by:Virginia Cooperative Extension

Project funded by: Virginia De-partment of Conservation and Recreation

Produced by: Communications and Marketing, College of Agri-culture and Life Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

This material is based upon work supported by the Virginia De-partment of Conservation and Recreation, under Agreement 50301-2009-01-SF. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recom-mendations expressed in this pub-lication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the Virginia Department

of Conservation and Recreation.

May 2011

Tips - Urban Nutrient Management (part 1)

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VNLA - Certification Quiz Article #61

If you are a Virginia Certified Horti-culturist, read this article and answer the quiz questions on page 35, fax/mail the Quiz Answer postcard and get 1 CEU towards your re-certification requirements.

adapted from the Urban Nutrient Management Handbook Content Coordinators: Michael Goat-ley Jr., Professor, Crop and Soil Envi-ronmental Sciences, Virginia Tech

Kevin Hensler, Research Specialist Senior, Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences, Virginia Tech

Published by:Virginia Cooperative Extension

Project funded by: Virginia De-partment of Conservation and Recreation

Produced by: Communications and Marketing, College of Agri-culture and Life Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

This material is based upon work supported by the Virginia De-partment of Conservation and Recreation, under Agreement 50301-2009-01-SF. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recom-mendations expressed in this pub-lication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the Virginia Department

of Conservation and Recreation.

May 2011

Tips - Urban Nutrient Management (part 1)

Ad – Winfall Nurseries Ad – Will Springs Tree Farms

72

News - Shorts Garden supply dealers post record June gains

The latest report from the National Re-tail Federation shows building material and garden supply dealers posted steady growth last month, up 8.4% un-adjusted from the previous June. How-ever, seasonally adjusted comparisons from the previous month show a 1% decline. This is in line with the overall retail sales for June, which show strong year-over-year increases but flat month-to-month gains. Sales rose 6.7% over last year, but increased only 0.2% seasonally adjusted over May. “After months of speculation, consumers are beginning to pull back,” said NRF chief economist Roasalind Wells. “Retailers can expect the second half of the year to show moderate gains due to the slowdown in the housing market and other economic factors.”

Targetnow second most-shopped retailer

Target is now second only to Wal-mart, according to Retail Forward’s recent ShopperScape report. One-quarter of all U.S. primary household shoppers visit a Target, Target Greatland or Su-perTarget store monthly. The report also found the retailer racks up repeat visitors. Two-thirds of Target’s past 6-month customer base returns to its stores on a regular basis. Children’s apparel, decorative home fashions, small housewares and appliances and toys generate the most interest among shoppers. Target and Wal-Mart typi-cally share customers, the report shows.

Weekly Dirt, Carol Miller, [email protected]

New England summerretail sales slide

After a strong April, garden center sales across new England hit a decline due to a stretch of rainy weekend, said Bob Heffernan, Conn. Nursery & land-scape Association Executive Secretary.

Soggy gardening conditions were

problematic enough for the Boston Globe to run an article on the situation in June. Sale were particularly bad north of

Connecticut, he said. Many garden cen-ters still have their yards filled with spring inventories. Area landscapers report more stable, steady business.

New tax deductioncould apply to growers

A new tax deduction could apply to nursery crops, ANLA has announced. The deduction, part of the American Jobs Creation Act, applies to gross re-ceipts of any sale, exchange or other disposition of qualifying production property grown or extracted in the US. The deduction was phased in at 3% and will increase to 9% by 2009. One re-striction is that the deduction cannot exceed 50% of wages paid by the tax-payer that year. The deduction is also available to individuals via their ad-justed gross income. ANLA helped secure the new tax deduction for nurs-ery growers in cooperation with the Small business Legislative Council in 2004.

Science takes a shot at dormant weed seeds

Weed control can be tricky, especially considering weed seeds can lie dormant for years waiting for favorable condi-tions. USDA scientists are looking at developing fungi and bacteria that will target these banks of thousands of mil-lion of dormant seeds. The concept is to bolster the activity of beneficial mi-crobes that already exist in the soil. This concept could be considered “pre-pre-emergence control,” as traditional pre-emergence herbicides kill weed seeds just at the stage of germination when tiny seedlings are emerging from seeds.

Weekly Nursery E-Mail, Todd Davis, [email protected]

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Urban Nutrient Management Handbook 7-1

Chapter 7. The Ornamental Landscape

Chapter 7. The Ornamental LandscapeLaurie Fox, Research Associate, Hampton Roads Agriculture Research and Extension Center, Virginia Tech

IntroductionFertilization is an important part of landscape manage-ment. Plants need nutrients to survive, and while many of the essential elements are already in the soil, fertilizer is often added to supplement those nutrients. Fertiliza-tion is a common cultural practice often made complex and confusing by the wide variety of fertilizer products on the market. The simple objective is to supply plants with nutrients in a form they can use at the time they most need them in a way that produces a healthy, attrac-tive landscape while being environmentally sound.

Site Assessment and Environmental Design

Site AssessmentA site assessment provides critical information for any landscape nutrient management plan. The information from a site assessment supports short- and long-term nutrient planning as well as the environmental sustain-ability of the overall plan. A site assessment should be conducted every five to seven years and should include information that will assist the landscape manager in making the best nutrient management decisions. Infor-mation to include in a site assessment:

• Site boundaries.

• Rainfall amount and distribution throughout the year.

• Water movement (on and through/off site for runoff and leaching potential).

• Management area delineation and size (e.g., turf, annuals, natural areas, etc.).

• Categories of plants (both existing and future addi-tions; see “Plant Categories,” later in this chapter).

• Condition of existing plants (healthy, stressed, etc.).

• Previous management strategies.

• Results of soil test(s).

• Site accessibility.

• Site management goals, short- and long-term.

• Special landscape situations.

• Overall site goals and objectives.

• Location relative to environmentally sensitive areas or proximity to storm drainage and bodies of water.

Urban SoilsThere are many special situations to consider in the orna-mental landscape, and one of the most pressing issues is the fact that the growing medium is usually a drastically altered urban soil where much of the native topsoil is removed during development (see chapter 3). Subsoil — deficient in essential nutrients and lacking desir-able physical properties — becomes the new topsoil in many situations. Or perhaps soil of unknown origin and composition is brought onto the site. Construction is also a factor affecting the performance of these soils. Urban soils tend to be heavily compacted, poorly aer-ated, poorly drained, and low in organic matter. Fertil-ization of landscape plants will not be effective until these adverse growing conditions are corrected. In fact, unhealthy soil cannot sustain healthy plants and can lead to nutrient pollution of surface and groundwater through runoff and leaching of the applied nutrients.

Site DesignNutrient management is also affected by proper envi-ronmental design. Plants with similar nutrient needs should be grouped together in the landscape when pos-sible to avoid improper rates of fertilizer application and to utilize fertilizer most efficiently. Landscape areas with mixed categories of plants are more challenging to manage. These areas may need to be subdivided into smaller management areas based on plant category and nutrient needs, or they may need to be fertilized using a “middle-of-the-road” approach where all plants get some nutrients but none is managed optimally because of the diverse plant mix.

BMPsSpecial landscape design features such as buffers, biore-tention or rain gardens, and green roofs are commonly used in landscapes to manage stormwater (see chapter 12). They are called landscape best management prac-tices (BMPs) and are used to slow down stormwater and provide an opportunity for it to be filtered by the plants, soil, and microorganisms before it either runs


7-2 Urban Nutrient Management Handbook


into natural surface water sources or percolates down to recharge groundwater sources. Plants in these BMPs should be fertilized only once when they are planted (usually in the individual planting hole) in order to get them established. These plants act as biofilters, absorb-ing nutrients from the stormwater; they DO NOT need any additional nutrient applications.

Correct Plant Selection and Planting

Plant SelectionCorrect plant selection is the first critical step to a suc-cessful landscape.

• Choose plants that are adapted to the environmental and site conditions.

• Select plants that naturally have few pest problems or are pest-resistant.

• Choose plants that meet the landscape goals and design parameters.

• Install plants at the correct spacing to account for their mature size, avoid crowding, and reduce long-term maintenance.

Plant CategoriesFollowing are some basic definitions that apply specifi-cally to landscape plants:

• Annuals are plants that complete their entire life cycle in one growing season. They germinate from seed, flower, set seed, and die in the same year.

• Biennials are plants that live for two years. They usually form vegetative growth in the first year and flowers and fruit/seed the second year.

• Perennials are plants that live for three or more years.

• Bulbs are short, modified, underground stems sur-rounded by (usually) fleshy, modified leaves that contain stored food for the shoot within.

• Herbaceous plants lack a permanent woody stem and die back to the ground every winter.

• Woody plants have permanent woody stems, are perennial, and go dormant in the winter but do not die back to the ground. These plants grow from aboveg-round stems year after year and include shrubs, trees, and some vines.

PlantingNo amount of fertilizer will improve a plant’s health or growth if that plant is installed incorrectly. Correct planting is essential for growing healthy roots and get-ting a plant established quickly in a landscape. Without a healthy root system, a plant can’t absorb nutrients effi-ciently or effectively. In addition, many nutrient appli-cations are made at the time of planting, either in the planting hole or to the planting bed area. See Appen-dix 7-A, Tree and Shrub Planting Guidelines, Virginia Cooperative Extension publication 430-295 for details on correct planting.

Determining the Need to FertilizePlants need 17 elements for normal growth. These are divided into two groups based on the amount of each needed by plants. Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen are found in air and water. Nitrogen, potassium, magne-sium, calcium, phosphorous, and sulfur are found in the soil. The six elements found in soil are used in rela-tively large amounts by plants and are called macronu-trients. There are eight other elements that are used in much smaller amounts and are called micronutrients, or trace elements. The micronutrients, which are found in the soil, are iron, zinc, molybdenum, manganese, boron, copper, cobalt, and chlorine. All 17 elements — both macronutrients and micronutrients — are essen-tial for plant growth. See chapter 4 for more detailed information.

Fertilizer should be applied when plants need it, when it will be most effective, and when plants can readily absorb it.

How and when to fertilize landscape plants depends on factors like:

• Maintenance objectives: stimulate new versus main-tain existing growth.

• Plant age: generally more for younger and less for older woody plants.

• Plant stress levels: stressed plants can sometimes benefit from additional fertilizer.

In addition to soil testing (see chapter 5), a visual inspection of plants is often used in making fertiliza-tion decisions. Look for:

• Poor or chlorotic leaf color (pale green to yellow).

• Reduced leaf size and retention.28 July / August / September 2012 VNLA Newsletter

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• Premature fall coloration and leaf drop (shrubs and trees).

• Overall reduced plant growth and vigor.

Foliar or tissue analysis can also be used to help deter-mine whether supplemental fertilization is needed (see chapter 5). Avoid late-summer or early-fall fertiliza-tion while plants are still actively growing because this stimulates late-fall growth, which can be killed by freezing temperatures.

Soil Tests (See chapter 5.)

The purpose of a soil test is to provide information to make wise choices regarding fertilizer and soil amend-ment. An initial soil test will provide baseline informa-tion on the condition of the soil and can include soil type; pH; available phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium; organic matter; and soluble-salt lev-els. Soil tests can also provide fertilizer and lime rec-ommendations based on the specific crop being grown. Subsequent tests can be used to monitor changes and improvements in soil health.

For ornamental landscape areas, soil testing should be done every three to five years. Each management area in the landscape should have its own test in order to customize the nutrient management plan for that area and avoid incorrect applications. For example, separate tests should be done for the turf, perennial beds, tree and shrub or naturalized areas, and annual beds. Soil test guidelines should be closely followed to assure the greatest plant response with the least chance of plant damage or possibility of water pollution. Many soils in Virginia have adequate phosphorus levels, making it unnecessary to apply more through fertilizers.

Soil sample kits are available at local Extension offices and most libraries. There are private companies that also do soil testing. Fees vary. For best results, care-fully follow the instructions given in the soil sample kit. The accuracy of the test is a reflection of the soil sample taken. Be sure the sample is representative of the area to be treated.

Soil pH, a measure of acidity, has a significant impact on the plant’s ability to use nutrients. Most ornamental landscape plants prefer a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Within this range, the essential nutrients are available to most plants, and soil microorganisms can carry out their ben-eficial functions.

If the soil is too acidic (i.e., low pH), the pH can be raised by adding lime. Lime applications can be made

at any time of the year, but it is ideal to apply lime in the fall and winter months when there are several weeks to months for the chemical reactions to take place before the next growing season.

If the soil is too alkaline (i.e., high pH), the pH can be lowered by adding sulfur. It is not practical or advis-able to change the soil pH more than one to two levels. Whenever possible, it is best to select plants that grow well in the existing conditions.

Factors Affecting Nutrient UptakeNumerous factors affect nutrient uptake by plants. The most important factors include:

• Fertilizer form: inorganic, fast-release, or liquid forms are usually absorbed faster than organic, slow-release, or dry forms.

• Soil type: clay particles and organic matter adsorb or bind more nutrients than sand, so fertilizer applica-tion needs to be more frequent in sandy soils but with lower rates each time due to leaching potential.

• Soil moisture content and soil temperature: nutrient uptake is faster in moist, warm soils.

• Fertilizer placement and application timing and method.

• Plant vigor: plants under stress are less able to take up available nutrients due to damaged or reduced root systems.

Fertilizers

Forms (See chapter 8.)

All fertilizers are labeled with three numbers that give the percentage by weight of nitrogen (N), phosphate (P2O5), and potash (K2O).

1. Nitrogen is important for leaf and stem growth and provides the rich green color in a plant.

2. Phosphorous (derived from phosphate) provides for root, flower, and fruit growth.

3. Potassium (derived from potash) helps build plant tissue and aids in disease resistance, cold hardiness, and the production of chlorophyll.

Proper use of nutrients can control rate and character of plant growth.

The analysis, or grade, of a fertilizer refers to the mini-mum amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus (in the form




P2O5), and potassium (in the form K2O) in the fertilizer. The analysis is always printed on the fertilizer label. A fertilizer with a 10-10-10 analysis contains 10 per-cent nitrogen, 10 percent P2O5, and 10 percent K2O. For example, in 100 pounds of 4-8-12, there are 4 pounds of nitrogen, 8 pounds of P2O5, and 12 pounds of K2O.

Fertilizers may be divided into two broad categories: natural and synthetic. Natural fertilizers generally originate from unprocessed organism sources such as plants or animals. Synthetic fertilizers are manmade or processed. Synthetic fertilizers can be organic (e.g., urea) or inorganic (e.g., superphosphate). Natural fertil-izers commonly misnamed “organic” can also contain inorganic ores such as rock phosphate.

Most nutrients from living or once-living organisms are not readily available for plant growth because they are bound in organic molecules such as proteins and amino acids and in structures such as cell walls. These nutri-ents are released only by microorganisms decompos-ing the organic matter. Cottonseed meal, blood meal, bone meal, hoof and horn meal, fish emulsion, and all manures are examples of organic fertilizers. Organic fertilizers usually contain relatively low concentrations of actual nutrients, but they perform other important functions that the synthetic formulations do not. These functions include increasing organic content of the soil, improving physical structure of the soil, and increasing bacterial and fungal activity.

“Slow-release” fertilizers may be synthetic or natu-ral. Because nutrients are released over an extended period of time, slow-release fertilizers do not have to be applied as frequently as other fertilizer types. Also, higher amounts of slow-release fertilizer can be added at each application without risking injury to plant roots. Slowly released nitrogen is used more efficiently because a higher percentage is absorbed by plants. The higher efficiency of slow-release fertilizers means less nitrogen is available to contribute to pollution of sur-face and groundwater. While slow-release fertilizers are generally more expensive, when an analysis is done to determine the cost of the nitrogen absorbed by the plant, the unit cost is actually less for slow-release materials.

“Water-soluble” or “liquid” fertilizers (which are not the same) are applied either to the soil or foliage. Numer-ous water-soluble fertilizer formulations are available, from plant starter, high-nitrogen fertilizers to minor element formulations. Chelated iron is used extensively for prevention and control of iron deficiency in azalea, rhododendron, and other popular ornamentals.

“Combination” products that contain fertilizer mixed with a herbicide, insecticide, or fungicide should be considered carefully. Herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides should be selected and applied based on the crop being grown and the pest(s) being managed. Often, the timing for a fertilizer application does not coincide with that of another product, and off-target or unintentional injury to the plant could result from a combined application.

PlacementBecause most landscape plant roots grow in the top 12 inches of soil, surface or shallow application (6 to 9 inches) is recommended. Fertilizer can be added to an individual planting hole, incorporated into the planting hole backfill or into an entire bed area, or spread over the plant’s root zone. With the last method, the fertilizer should not be concentrated around the stem or trunk of a plant but where the majority of the absorbing roots are actively growing. For annuals, this is from the can-opy edge extended out by 6 inches. For perennials, this is from the canopy edge extended out 6 to 12 inches. For trees and shrubs, fertilizer should be applied over an area extending two to three times the canopy spread. Research has shown that tree roots grow far beyond the drip line of established trees. Do not concentrate fertil-izer in holes drilled under the tree canopy, but instead use a broadcast application beyond the tree canopy for better growth.

Application TimingResearch shows that plants actively absorb nutrients from the soil during the growing season and require few nutrients during the dormant winter season. In general, apply fertilizer as soon as plants begin break-ing dormancy in the spring and avoid fertilizing after the first fall frost, which signals plants to slow growth in preparation for winter dormancy. Late-summer and early-fall fertilization may stimulate new growth that is not winter hardy.

Do not fertilize during stressful environmental condi-tions. Drought causes plants to slow their growth. That, combined with insufficient soil moisture, reduces nutri-ent absorption and could increase the potential for root injury from fertilizers. Too much rainfall or irrigation can cause nutrients to run off or leach, potentially con-taminating water sources. Incorporate the fertilizer into the bed or planting hole when there is frequent rain or irrigation to avoid runoff or leaching problems.




The frequency of fertilization depends on the type of plants being fertilized and the type of fertilizer used. Slow-release fertilizers are commonly recommended so that one application lasts for the entire growing season. If general-purpose, water-soluble fertilizers are used, two or three applications applied four to six weeks apart may be needed to make it through the growing season. Fertilizer should be applied to newly planted landscape ornamentals to help them establish quickly.

Application MethodsFive methods — (1) liquid injection, (2) drill hole or punch bar, (3) surface application or fertilizer stakes or spikes, (4) foliar spraying, and (5) tree-trunk injection or implants — are discussed here. Each serves a spe-cific role depending on the site and plant health. Table 7.1 summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of the five application methods. Regardless of the method selected, the soil should be moist at the time of fertiliza-tion to prevent fertilizer injury to the plant.

1. Liquid injection (primarily for trees). Through liquid injection into the soil, fertilizer solutions are placed in the root zone. This is an excellent method for cor-recting nutrient deficiencies. Injection sites should be 2 to 3 feet apart — depending on pressure — and 6 to 9 inches deep. Fertilizing deeper than 9 inches may place the fertilizer below the absorbing roots, pre-venting plant use. When using this method in sum-mer or during periods of drought, the soil should be moist before application.

2. Drill hole or punch bar (primarily for trees). A major advantage of the drill-hole system is the opening of heavy, compacted soils, which allows air, moisture, and fertilizer to move into the soil. The drill holes should be placed in concentric circles or in a grid system around the main stem beginning 3 to 4 feet from the main stem and extending beyond the drip line (see figure 7.1). Space the holes 2 feet apart and drill them 6 to 9 inches deep. The recommended rate of fertilizer for the area should be uniformly distrib-uted among the holes and is based on the root-zone space under the tree (and not the trunk diameter). The holes can be filled either with organic material such as compost or inorganic materials such as gravel, sand, or calcined clay.

3. Surface application. A broadcast application of granular fertilizer at the appropriate rate and time is made to the ground surface or on top of mulch in landscape beds. It is best to water the fertilizer in

slowly, soon after application. This method is very common, but the results can be slow because it takes time for the nutrients to filter into the soil and to the absorbing roots.

4. Fertilizer stakes or spikes. Fertilizer in the form of stakes or spikes, is driven into the soil in a grid pat-tern similar to that made with liquid injection fertil-izer applications. Because lateral fertilizer movement is limited in soil, root system to fertilizer contact is reduced with this method. The general product rec-ommendation of one or two stakes per inch of trunk diameter often does not provide an adequate fertilizer amount or efficient distribution.

5. Foliar spraying. Spraying liquid or water-soluble fertilizer on the foliage is best for correcting defi-ciencies of minor elements, especially of iron and manganese. Absorption begins within minutes after application, and with most nutrients, it is completed within one to two days. Foliar nutrition can be a supplement at a critical time for the plant but cannot replace soil fertilization. This method should not be used as a means of providing all the nutrients required by plants. Several applications during a growing sea-son may be necessary. This method is generally not practical for large landscape trees.

6. Tree-trunk injection or implants. The infusion of liquid or implants of fertilizer directly to the tree trunk is often the best method for correcting iron and manganese problems in large landscape trees. This method is especially useful in areas of adverse soil pH, high moisture, or where other means of applica-

Figure 7.1. Liquid injection drill hole or stake diagram.


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Urban Nutrient Management -

Ornamental Landscape (part 1)

Prepared by: Sandy Miller

1. A site assessment provides criti-cal information for a specific landscape nutrient management plan.

A. True B. False

2. Plants with similar nutrient needs should be grouped together in the landscape when possible to avoid:

A. Drought B. A boring layout C. Improper rates of fertiliz-

er

3. How and when to fertilize land-scape plants depends on factors like:

A. Maintenance objectives B. Plant Age C. Plant Stress Levels D. All of the above

4. If the plant is installed incorrect-ly, fertilizer will remedy the problem. A. True B. False

5. An initial soil test will provide: A. Accurate water needs B. Baseline information on the

condition of the soil. C. PH of soil only

6. With soil moisture content dry

and soil temperature cool: A. Nutrient uptake is faster B. Nutrient uptake is slower

7. Most landscape plant roots grow

in the: A. Top 6 inches of soil B. Top 12 inches of soil

8. Slow release Fertilizer is synthet-ic only. A. True B. False

9. There 5 methods of application

for fertilizers; liquid injection, drill hole or punch bar, surface application or fertilizer stakes or spikes, tree-trunk injection or im-plants and ______________? A. Aerial Application B. Wand Method C. Foliar spraying

10. Bulbs love high nitrogen fertiliz-

er. A. True B. False

11. Many synthetic fertilizers are

salts, much like our familiar table salt, except that they contain var-ious plant nutrients. A. True B. False

12. The quantity of fertilizer applied

on established ornamental de-pends on: A. The analysis of the fertilizer

used. B. The area fertilized. C. The amount of growth de-

sired. D. The depth of soil only. E. All of the above. F. A, B, C only.

13. Plants growing in the sun gener-ally require more fertilizer than those in shade. A. True B. False

14. To determine whether a granular fertilizer has slow release proper-ties: A. Do a leach test. B. Check the analysis label

. 15. Granular slow-release fertilizers

can last from 15 to 20 months. A. True B. False







tion are not practical. The wounds or holes caused by the injections to the trunk should close within a growing season. Monitoring the wounds until they are healed is recommended to make sure insects or diseases do not become a problem.

Table 7.1. Advantages and disadvantages of application methods.Application method Advantages Disadvantages

Subsurface • Aerates soil.

• Convenient.

• Special fertilizer and drilling or soil injection equipment needed.

Foliar sprays • Relieves symptoms of micronutrient deficiencies.

• Temporary benefits.

• Doesn’t address underlying soil problem.

Injection and implantation

• Relieves deficiency symptoms.

• Temporary benefits.

• Wounds create entry for insects/diseases.

Source: Virginia Cooperative Extension publication 430-018 (VCE 2009a).

OverfertilizationMany synthetic fertilizers are salts, much like our famil-iar table salt, except that they contain various plant nutri-ents. If the concentration of fertilizer is too high, and if tender plant roots are close to the fertilizer granules, water is drawn from these roots. Plant cells in these roots begin to dehydrate and collapse. The plant roots are “burned” or dried out to a point where they cannot recover. Foliar injury, often in the form of marginal leaf burn, is also a result of too much fertilizer. Newly transplanted orna-mentals are under stress while they are trying to adapt to their new location, and they can be easily injured by overfertilization. Reduce fertilizer rates when plants are growing in restricted areas (sidewalk cuts, parking lot islands) or where roots of multiple plants overlap. It is important to apply fertilizer at the proper time and rate.

Overfertilization can cause other problems in addition to plant injury. Avoid getting fertilizer on sidewalks and driveways where it can easily wash into storm drains and, eventually, into creeks, streams, and rivers. Nutri-ents, particularly nitrogen, become a water quality problem through leaching or run-off.

Specific Fertility Needs

Annuals and Bedding PlantsGenerally, a slow-release, complete fertilizer at a rate of 2 to 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet is incorporated into the bed at planting time for season-long nutrients. Sometimes a liquid or water-soluble fer-tilizer is applied at 0.5-1.0 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet at planting to jump-start the annuals until the slow-release fertilizer takes effect. Additional over-the-top fertilizer applications are not recommended because damage can occur to the plants when fertilizer contacts the stems, blooms, or foliage.

BulbsAvoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can cause foliage growth at the expense of blooms. A single fall applica-tion of 1 to 2 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of a slow-release, complete fertilizer incorporated into the bed or planting hole at planting time is best. Several formulations of bulb fertilizer are available, like 9-9-6, 4-10-6, 5-10-20, or 10-10-20. They often go by names like “bulb food,” “bulb booster,” or “bulb tone.” The common formulation 9-9-6 is ideal for most types of bulbs, including garden lilies, tulips, etc. For daffodils, use slow-release 5-10-20 or 10-10-20, if it is available. A topdressing of well-rotted manure or compost applied in the fall is also beneficial for bulbs (see chapter 9).

PerennialsGenerally, a slow-release, complete fertilizer at a rate of 1 to 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet is incor-porated into the bed or planting hole at planting time. If planting in the fall (September through November), use 1 pound of nitrogen incorporated, followed by a sec-ond application of 2 to 3 pounds of nitrogen broadcast the following spring (March or April). Always water the bed after applying fertilizer to established plants to wash the fertilizer off the foliage and prevent injury. If planting in the spring, use 3 to 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet incorporated. This should be enough to carry plants through the summer. Do not exceed 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per year.

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of the plant. If planting in the fall (September through November), use 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet, followed by a second application of 2 to 3 pounds of nitrogen the following spring (March or April).

Additional applications of 2 to 3 pounds of nitrogen can be made each spring for the first three to five years, particularly on young trees to encourage establishment and quick growth. For established shrubs and trees, use 2 to 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet in the spring (March or April), every three years. Do not exceed 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per year. Trees growing in turf areas will obtain nutrients from the fertilizer that is applied to the turfgrass. Do not apply excess fertilizer to turf in an effort to fertilize trees because injury to the turf may occur.

Some species such as roses (Rosa spp.), red-tip pho-tinia (Photinia x fraseri), and English laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) are more demanding, while others like ornamental grasses, silver maple (Acer saccharinum), willow (Salix spp.), privet (Ligustrum spp.), forsythia (Forsythia spp.), hollies (Ilex spp.), and junipers (Juni-perus spp.) require less fertilization. Species like azalea, dogwood, hemlock, and rhododendron have shallow root systems that are easily damaged by fertilizers. Here, split- or low-rate applications of slow-release fertilizers are recommended. A low-rate application (1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet) may also be appropriate for shrubs and trees under stress, such as from disease, drought, construction, or storm damage.

Plants growing in shade generally require less fertilizer than those growing in the sun, while those growing in sandy soils generally require more frequent fertilization than those in clay soils, due to nutrients leaching from sandy soils. Water-soluble fertilizers should be applied in split applications to minimize leaching potential and, where possible, use slow-release nitrogen sources on sandy soils.

Fertilizer Calculations (See chapter 10.)

The quantity of fertilizer applied on established orna-mentals depends on:

• The analysis of the fertilizer used.

• The area fertilized.

• The amount of growth desired.

Nitrogen controls vegetative growth, so application rates are based on this primary nutrient. Low rates of fertilizer are recommended, particularly for a lower

maintenance landscape. As the application rate of fer-tilizer increases, so does the amount of new growth, which requires more water, more fertilizer, and more pruning.

AreaTo determine how much fertilizer to apply, first measure the area to be fertilized. This involves measuring the length and width of a bed in linear feet and multiplying the two numbers to obtain the square footage. Landscape beds can be addressed individually, or several can be added together for total square footage. Few plant beds are perfectly square or rectangular, so square off the rounded areas to simplify the calculations. See Appendix 7-B, Maryland Cooperative Extension publication, How to Measure Your Yard for additional information (www.hgic.umd.edu/_media/documents/hg306.pdf).

Trees growing within a bed can be included in the bed estimate or, if they require special fertilization, estimate their canopy area by measuring the distance from the trunk to the drip line (this is called the radius). Then use the geometric formula for the area of a circle to calculate the area of the canopy (3.14 x radius2). For example, if the distance from the main trunk to the drip line of a tree is 20 feet, the area beneath the canopy is 3.14 x (20 x 20) = 1,256 square feet. See the guidelines above for additional recommendations on tree fertiliza-tion amounts and placement.

ConversionsTo convert from actual amount of nitrogen recom-mended to amount of fertilizer, divide the amount of nitrogen desired per 1,000 square feet by the fertilizer analysis or grade. For example, if you have an 18-6-12 fertilizer, how much is needed to apply 3 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet? Divide 3 pounds of nitrogen by 0.18 ( percentage of nitrogen in fertilizer) to get 17 pounds of fertilizer.

Fertilizer SelectionFertilizers differ in nutrient content and release dura-tion. The type of fertilizer selected is based on:

• Cost.

• The types of plants being fertilized.

• The type of growth response desired.

• Time of year.

• Application methods.38 July / August / September 2012 VNLA Newsletter

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• Equipment cost.

• Proximity to water sources.

• Effect of soil type and pH.

• Type of deficiency.

• The existing nutrient content of the soil.

To determine whether a granular fertilizer has slow-release properties, check the analysis label. Nitrogen listed in the form of ammoniacal nitrogen indicates that the product probably isn’t slow-release. If the nitrogen is listed as being derived from urea, urea-formalde-hyde, IBDU (isobutylenediurea), or sulfur-coated urea, the release duration of the product will be increased.

Granular slow-release fertilizers can last from three to twelve months after application.

Other commonly available, slow-release fertilizers on the market include Osmocote granules, Osmocote tab-lets, Jobe’s Spikes, Woodace briquettes, Agriform tab-lets, and Milorganite. These fertilizers generally cost more per pound than general-purpose granular fertiliz-ers such as 10-10-10 or 12-4-8, but they also last longer and don’t need to be applied as frequently. Organic fer-tilizer sources such as bone meal, cottonseed meal, and animal manures can also be used. Compost is another good source of slowly available nutrients.

Tables 7.2 - 7.5 will help with fertilizer selection.

Table 7.2. Chemical fertilizers, analysis, speed of reaction, and effect on soil pH.

Fertilizer AnalysisSpeed of reaction

and leaching Soil reaction

Pounds of each fertilizer required

to get 1 lb N/1,000 sq ft

Ammonium nitrate 33-0-0 Rapid Acidic 3.0

Ammonium sulfate 20-0-0 Rapid Very acidic 5.0

Urea 46-0-0 Rapid Slightly acidic 2.0

Ureaformaldehyde 38-0-0 Slow Slightly acidic 2.5

Di-ammonium phosphate 18-46-0 Rapid Acidic 5.5

Calcium nitrate 15-0-0 Rapid Alkaline 6.5

Potassium nitrate 13-0-44 Rapid Neutral 7.5

10-10-10 10-10-10 Rapid Varies with N source 10.0

Osmocote 18-6-12 Slow Acidic 5.5

Source: Virginia Cooperative Extension publication 430-018 (VCE 2009a).

Table 7.3 Average nutrient content of various organic fertilizer sources.Fertilizer source % Nitrogen (N) % Phosphorus (P2O5) % Potash (K2O)

Blood, dried 13.0 — —

Bone meal, raw 3.5 22.0 —

Bone meal, steamed 2.0 28.0 —

Cottonseed meal 6.6 2.5 1.5

Fish scrap, dried 9.5 6.0 —

Soybean meal 7.0 1.2 1.5

Horse manure 0.7 0.3 0.6

Cow manure 0.6 0.2 0.6

Pig manure 0.5 0.3 0.5

Sheep manure 0.8 0.3 0.9

Chicken manure 1.1 0.8 0.5

Duck manure 0.6 1.4 0.5

Source: Georgia Cooperative Extension bulletin 1065 (2009).




Table 7.4. Recommended fertilization rates for newly planted ornamental plants during the first growing season (use only one of the fertilizers listed at the rate recommended).

Plant type/size

12-4-8 16-4-8 10-10-10 Application frequencyApplication rate*/plant

1-gallon shrubs 1 tsp 1 tsp 1 tbsp March, May, July



Trees under 4 feet 1 tbsp 1 tbsp 2 tbsp March, July

Trees 4-6 feet 3 tbsp 3 tbsp 5 tbsp March, July

Trees 6-8 feet 4 tbsp 4 tbsp 6 tbsp March, July

Application rate 100/sq ft

Ground covers, annuals, and herbaceous perennials

0.5 lb 0.5 lb 1.0 lb Each 4-6 weeks

Source: Georgia Cooperative Extension bulletin 1065 (2009).* When using slow-release or soluble fertilizers, follow label recommendations for application rate.

Table 7.5. Recommended application rates of various general-purpose granular fertilizers on established ornamental plants in the landscape.

Source

Application ratea

1,000 sq ft 100 sq ft 10 sq ft

TablespoonsPounds Cups Pounds Cups

10-10-10 10.0 20.0 1.0 2.0 4.0

8-8-8 12.5 25.0 0.5 2.5 5.0

13-13-13 6.0 12.0 0.75 1.5 3.0

12-3-6 6.0 12.0 0.75 1.5 3.0

12-4-8 6.0 12.0 0.75 1.5 3.0

12-6-6 6.0 12.0 0.75 1.5 3.0

16-4-8 6.0 12.0 0.5 1.0 2.0

4-12-12 25.0 50.0 2.5 5.0 10.0

5-10-10 20.0 40.0 2.0 4.0 8.0

Source: Georgia Cooperative Extension bulletin 1065 (2009).a This rate will supply 1 pound of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet. For optimum growth of young shrubs, ground covers, and trees, three to five applications are recommended at six- to 10-week intervals from March to August. Application frequency varies with the amount of slow-release nitrogen in the product, so consult the label for specific recommendations. Established trees and shrubs will benefit from one to two applications during the growing season. Annual flowers and roses should receive applications at four- to six-week intervals from March to August. When using slow-release or specialty fertilizers, follow the manufacturer’s recommendation on the container.


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Organic and Other Soil Amendments (See chapter 9.)

Amendments can improve soil structure, drainage, and nutrient-holding capacity, making the soil a more favor-able place for root development and nutrient uptake. Soil improvement or building is a continual process in the landscape. The regular addition of manures, com-post, cover crops, other organic matter, and amend-ments can raise the soil nutrient level to a point where the addition of synthetic fertilizers is greatly reduced, and in some cases, no longer needed. This highly desir-able soil quality does not come about with a single or even several additions of organic material, but rather requires a serious, long-term program.

Nutrient DeficienciesEach of the 17 essential elements has a specific role in plant growth. A deficiency or an excess of any one will impair plant growth until the problem is corrected. Iron and manganese are the micronutrients most often defi-cient in landscape plants. An adjustment in soil pH usu-ally corrects deficiencies of the micronutrients. Some symptoms of nutrient deficiency in woody plants are listed below (North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service 1996).

Table 7.6. Element and foliar deficiency symptoms.Element Foliar deficiency symptoms

Nitrogen (N) • General yellowish-green; more severe on older leaves. • Stunted growth with small and fewer leaflets.• Early leaf drop. • Dark green to blue-green; slightly smaller leaves. • Veins, petioles, or lower surface may become reddish-purple, especially when young.• Death of lower needles in pines.

Potassium (K) • Partial chlorosis of most recently matured leaves in interveinal area beginning at tips, followed by necrosis.

• Older leaves may become brown and curl downward.

Calcium (Ca) • Death of terminal buds.• Tip die-back.• Chlorosis of young leaves. • Leaves may become hard and stiff. • Root injury is the first apparent symptom.

Magnesium (Mg) • Marginal chlorosis on older leaves, followed by interveinal chlorosis. • Margins may become brittle and curl upward.

Sulfur (S) • Uniform chlorosis of new leaves.• Older leaves are usually not affected.

Iron (Fe) • Interveinal chlorosis of young leaves (sharp distinction between green veins and yellow tissue between veins).

• Older basal leaves greener, exposed leaves blanched.

Manganese (Mn) • Interveinal chlorosis of young leaves beginning at margins and progressing toward midribs, followed by necrotic spots.

Zinc (Zn) • Young leaves may be yellow, small, deformed, or mottled with necrotic spots. • May be a tuft of leaves at shoot tips.

Boron (B) • Terminal growth dies; later growth that develops has sparse foliage. • Young leaves may be red, bronzed, or scorched. • Leaves may be small, thick, distorted, or brittle.

Copper (Cu) • Rosetting of foliage, terminal growth may die. • Leaf symptoms not usually pronounced, but veins may be lighter than blades.

Molybdenum (Mo) • Cupping of the older leaves. • Marginal chlorosis followed by interveinal chlorosis.



News – SmartSlope & Stormwater

The shops at Dakota Crossing is lo-cated in Washington, DC along the Anacostia River and Route 50/New York Avenue. The site is mostly clay soils and DDOE informed the devel-oper that they needed to manage their storm water on site and they had a need for many retaining walls also. So for this project storm water is be-ing collected in a series of cisterns and then pumped through 55,000 sf of SmartSlope our living retaining walls. A virtual vertical rain garden, the soil is a rain garden mix with

grasses planted in the near future. The contractor has installed the first three walls and there will be 5 more com-ing.

Jimmy Dick, SmartSlope, Living Retain-

ing Walls, www.smartslope.com [email protected]

Legislation - Campaign Launched to Encourage ‘YES’ Votes for Private

Property Rights

Virginia land-owners will be confident that their private property can-not be taken and given to

another private owner under emi-nent domain if the commonwealth’s voters approve Question 1 on the November 6th ballot.

Bi-Partisan legislation passed by the General Assembly was signed by Gov. Bob McDonnell on July 16 to place a proposed constitutional amendment on this fall’s ballot to protect the private property rights of Virginia’s farmers, small businesses and individuals. The amendment spec-

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ifies that eminent domain cannot be used unless it is for a true public use and further ensures just compensation for the landowner including the op-portunity for lost access and profits to be considered as part of just compen-sation. The language in the amend-ment also clarifies what is a true “public use” and specifies that no more land than is necessary can be taken.

The “Private Property Rights” amendment and companion legislation was supported by Attorney Gen. Ken Cuccinelli and patroned by Sen. Mark Obenshain (R-Harrisonburg), Del. Rob Bell (R-Albemarle), and Del. Johnny Joannou (D-Portsmouth).

At the July 16 bill signing, a coalition of private property rights advocates announced the launch of a campaign encouraging Virginians to “Vote YES for Private Property Rights.”

“Our members are excited about the opportunity that this constitutional amendment will provide. No longer will our farms, homes or businesses be taken and given to another private property owner under Kelo - type em-inent domain abuses,” said Wayne F. Pryor, president of Virginia Farm Bureau Federation.

“Our members are grateful to Gover-nor McDonnell, Attorney General Cuccinelli and the General Assembly for understanding that sometimes, the government may want someone’s property for a well-agreed public use, but taking someone’s home, farm, or business so someone else can develop the land is just plain wrong,” said Nicole Riley, state director for the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB). “This amendment ensures that if property is taken for a legitimate public use private property owners will be justly compensated.”

Elected officials “have given Virgini-ans the opportunity to approve this historical measure,” added Katie K. Frazier, president of the Virginia Ag-ribusiness Council. “Our job now is

to educate the public on what this con-stitutional amendment does and why it is important to them, and we’ll be do-ing so through grassroots activism and communication.”

The “Vote YES for Private Property Rights” campaign is supported by the Farm Bureau, the NFIB, the Virginia Agribusiness Council, the Virginia Forestry Association, Americans for Prosperity, the Family Foundation of Virginia, the Virginia Poultry Federa-tion, and other advocacy groups. The coalition will be working through the fall, posting campaign signs, distrib-uting literature, and organizing other promotional activities. Contact Trey Davis, VFBF assistant di-

rector of governmental relations, at 804-290-1017 Nicole Riley, NFIB state direc-

tor, at 804-377-3661 for more infor-mation or Katie Frazier, President of the

Virginia Agribusiness Council at 804-643-3555. ([email protected])

Legislation - Special Report: Farm Bill Jumps Another Hurdle

What’s Next? Defying the odds so far in a time of political gridlock and dysfunction, the every-five-years legislative expres-sion of the nation's agricultural policy known as the Farm Bill has cleared several hurdles. In June, the bill passed the Senate on a rather biparti-san vote of 64-35. Most Democrats supported it, though a few opposed cuts to the food stamp program. Some Republicans supported it, though many did not. Republican no votes included a mix of southern Senators concerned with cuts to the rice, cot-ton, and peanut programs, and fiscal conservatives who wanted deeper cuts across the bill.

Next, in the overnight hours of July 11-12, the House Agriculture Com-mittee approved its version of the Farm Bill by a bipartisan margin of

35-11. Most no votes were from Democrats concerned over even deeper cuts to the food stamp pro-gram. But in an interesting twist, the Committee's version actually adds funding for several specialty crop programs popular among both Demo-crats and Republicans with signifi-cant fruit, vegetable, nursery, green-house, and Christmas tree crops in their districts.

What’s In It? The 2008 Farm Bill was the first to include major new programs de-signed to support the specialty crop sector, including nursery and flori-culture. Specialty crops represent roughly half the value of all U.S. crop production, but have historically been a farm policy afterthought. The 2008 bill changed that, but not with direct subsidies. Rather, the bill invested in "infrastructure" that improves the success potential of these sectors. This has meant added funding for research, plant pest prevention and control, marketing and promotion, nutrition, and similar initiatives.

For the American Nursery & Landscape Association and our state and regional partner associa-tions, the top priorities have in-cluded the Pest and Disease Pro-gram, National Clean Plant Net-



work, Specialty Crop Research Ini-tiative, and Specialty Crop Block Grant program. Both the Senate-passed bill, and the House Ag Com-mittee product, sustain and even in-crease funding for these efforts. Both bills would combine Pest and Disease and Clean Plant Network into one program, which works so long as the funding is sufficient. The former is funding a wide array of pest survey, rapid response, research and devel-opment, and similar efforts. One ex-ample: just a few weeks ago, this program was the vehicle for roughly a half-million dollars to fund a coordi-nated research response to the new pest threat of boxwood blight.

The National Clean Plant Network has expanded and strengthened the capacity for safe importation, pathogen testing, and clean-up of the newest varieties of high-value nursery stock like apples, peaches, citrus, grapes, and berries. The pro-gram is enabling new efforts to har-

monize certification and interstate shipping requirements for such crops.

The Specialty Crop Block Grant program, also enhanced in both the Senate and House Ag versions, has enabled the launch of the Plant Some-thing program (www.plant-something.org). This program, started in Arizona and expanding to other states, has the exciting potential to grow into a quasi-national promotion program for the green industry. Final-ly, on research, the House Ag version of the bill seeks to dramatically strengthen industry involvement in ensuring that funded projects are in-dustry-relevant and high impact.

What Else to Watch? In the House Ag Committee’s de-liberations, ANLA and allies se-cured an amendment to an existing "business and industry" loan pro-gram that, while modest in scope, could improve access to working cap-ital for some businesses still strug-

gling with the credit crunch. And, early indications are we have success-fully avoided "energy title" policies and funding that might divert horti-cultural inputs like tree bark used for growing media and mulch, or dramat-ically increase their cost.

The Path Forward The Farm Bill's logical next step is action on the House floor. But when and how that might happen are any-one’s guess. House Speaker John Boehner has never been a friend of the Farm Bill, and especially its tradi-tional row crop subsidies. While those subsidies are largely replaced in the current bill with a new insurance scheme, Boehner may still fear an insurrection in his own party by fiscal conservatives who want to take a meat cleaver to the bill. Also, billions in cuts to food stamps (which actually represent the majority of Farm Bill spending) may expose Republicans to charges that they are insensitive to the hardship and hunger afflicting poor

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Americans.

Still, the Farm Bill could offer a rare election-year opportunity for biparti-san action. So don't rule out the chance for it to clear the remaining hurdles either pre- or post-election. If it doesn't, Congress will have to kick another can down the road, again, into next year by extending the cur-rent law.

Fight To Preserve H2B At Critical Point

The H-2B temporary and seasonal worker visa program is, for many green industry employers, the only safety net for hiring seasonal non-agricultural workers. In good times, landscape installation and mainte-nance firms have been the single largest user of the program. This re-flects the large number of seasonal, manual labor positions in the indus-try; often, few American workers seek such job opportunities.

But the program is under assault. The Obama administration, doing the bidding of labor unions who hate for-eign worker programs, has tried to push forward two rules that would fundamentally damage the program, leaving it unworkable for many. The first rule, dealing with H-2B wages, has been delayed temporarily by Congress. The second rule, a sweep-ing program rewrite, has been chal-lenged in the courts by a diverse yet small group of affected employer and association plaintiffs.

On April 27, 2012, a federal judge in the Northern District of Florida is-sued a preliminary injunction pre-venting DOL from implementing its H-2B program rule. This decision was a huge victory for H-2B em-ployers, and has helped preserve a workable H-2B program. However, the battle goes on until the judge rules. Legal proceedings in the case continue and the legal bills are quick-ly adding up. Unless the affected in-dustry steps up to fully fund the ef-fort, the best shot at defending the

program will be lost.

Who is benefiting from this litiga-tion? First and foremost, current H-2B users, who have had another year to operate under the program they understand. Secondly, future users. Any economic improvement is going to mean growing labor scarcity. Same with ongoing immigration enforce-ment, mostly in the form of employer I-9 immigration audits. Seasonal businesses that aren't using the pro-gram now need to think about the value of having it available tomor-row, or next year. Industry businesses and associations able to contribute to preserving the H-2B safe-ty net at this critical juncture in the battle should contact either Craig Regelbrugge at the American Nursery & Landscape

Association ([email protected]) or Laurie Flanagan, co-chair of the H-2B

Workforce Coalition ([email protected]).

Boxwood Blight: Meeting The Challenge

The generally dry spring in most of the East has likely suppressed Box-wood Blight (Cylindrocladium pseu-donaviculatum) and has played a role in preventing its spread. However, methods for dealing with this chal-lenging disease must be identified if Boxwood (Buxus spp.) is to remain a cornerstone plant of our landscapes. In late May, a significant step in this direction was realized when the Ani-mal and Plant Health Inspection Ser-vice of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA-APHIS) pro-vided $550,000 in funding for Box-wood Blight research. The proposal was based on the research priorities identified by the industry-based Boxwood Blight Working Group and focuses on developing rapid diagnos-tic tools, studying disease epidemiol-ogy, and identifying disease treatment strategies. The awarded researchers have worked closely with ANLA dur-ing their grant writing process and continue to collaborate to maintain a streamlined effort in line with indus-

try’s needs and prevent duplication.

Although this disease has been known about since the 1990’s, with its first discovery in the United King-dom, more information about its bi-ology and epidemiology is coming to light. A recent discovery in Connecti-cut further exemplified the need for research into the biology of Boxwood Blight, strategies for managing it, and the development of resistant varieties. In June, the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) con-firmed that an established landscape bed of Pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis) was found to be infected by boxwood blight. This discovery adds a layer of complexity to disease management. Coordinated efforts like the Farm Bill funded research pro-gram will help the industry meet this and other new challenges.

Rose Rosette Disease Goes Rogue

Dawn Dailey O'Brien, Cornell University, Bugwood.org

Cultivated roses are facing a growing challenge from Rose Rosette Disease (RRD), a native pathogen that only in recent years has shown potential to negatively impact landscape and gar-den rose varieties. RRD causes a va-riety of odd-looking symptoms in-cluding peculiar red growth, exces-sive thorniness, elongated shoots, deformed blooms, pliable canes and often leads to the eventual death of the plant. The disease was first rec-ognized in the 1940s but was never fully characterized. Based on some similarities to other better defined



pathogens, it is thought to be caused by a virus or plant specialized bacte-rium called a phytoplasma and spread by an eriophyid mite (Phyllocoptes fructiphylus). The disease is likely endemic to the continental U.S. and causes no visible symptoms in some native species of Rosa, such as R. setigera and R. palustris.

Multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) is particularly susceptible to RRD and its decades-long march, as an inva-sive plant, across much of the conti-nental U.S. has likely been the source of inoculum and responsible for spreading the disease. Contaminated mites are easily blown from wooded or forest edges where diseased plants may reside, to nearby landscape and nursery plants. Multiflora rose is so susceptible and the disease is so de-structive that some interested in con-trolling invasives considered using RRD as a biological control against multiflora rose.

Eradication of multiflora rose from

surrounding areas and the use of pes-ticides that kill the vectoring mites are currently the best defenses against this problematic pathogen. However, the long term resolution of this issue will likely rely on breeding new cul-tivars with disease resistant lines. Fortunately, federal, academic, and industry researchers are collaborating on this effort and intend to make any new developments available to grow-ers and consumers. This article is provided by the VNLA and ANLA as a Lighthouse Program partner

benefit

News - GreenCare for Troops Hailed at the

White House

The White House ceremony was at-tended by Obama and Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden. The event was part of the White House’s Joining Forces Initiative. Led by Obama, the program ultimately rec-ognized 20 organizations and com-munities dedicated to providing ex-emplary support to military families.

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VNLA Newsletter 49July / August / September 2012VNLA Newsletter July/August/September 2012 49

pathogens, it is thought to be caused by a virus or plant specialized bacte-rium called a phytoplasma and spread by an eriophyid mite (Phyllocoptes fructiphylus). The disease is likely endemic to the continental U.S. and causes no visible symptoms in some native species of Rosa, such as R. setigera and R. palustris.

Multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) is particularly susceptible to RRD and its decades-long march, as an inva-sive plant, across much of the conti-nental U.S. has likely been the source of inoculum and responsible for spreading the disease. Contaminated mites are easily blown from wooded or forest edges where diseased plants may reside, to nearby landscape and nursery plants. Multiflora rose is so susceptible and the disease is so de-structive that some interested in con-trolling invasives considered using RRD as a biological control against multiflora rose.

Eradication of multiflora rose from

surrounding areas and the use of pes-ticides that kill the vectoring mites are currently the best defenses against this problematic pathogen. However, the long term resolution of this issue will likely rely on breeding new cul-tivars with disease resistant lines. Fortunately, federal, academic, and industry researchers are collaborating on this effort and intend to make any new developments available to grow-ers and consumers. This article is provided by the VNLA and ANLA as a Lighthouse Program partner

benefit

News - GreenCare for Troops Hailed at the

White House

The White House ceremony was at-tended by Obama and Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden. The event was part of the White House’s Joining Forces Initiative. Led by Obama, the program ultimately rec-ognized 20 organizations and com-munities dedicated to providing ex-emplary support to military families.

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“Our country’s military families sac-rifice so much for all of us on a daily basis, providing environmentally beneficial lawn and landscape ser-vices for them is the least we can do to provide them with a healthy yard so they can focus on their jobs and families,” said Cindy Code, Project EverGreen executive director. “To have Project EverGreen’s GreenCare for Troops program acknowledged by the White House is incredibly hum-bling and a testament to the im-portance of our organization and its programs.”

GreenCare for Troops pairs military families with a family member cur-rently deployed overseas with a local landscape contractor or volunteer to provide free lawn care and landscap-ing services.

The Joining Forces Initiative was a year-long program designed to recog-nize and celebrate the extraordinary efforts of citizens and organizations across the country that are working to improve the lives of military families. The initiative was also an opportunity to highlight some of the successful programs across the country and help spur others to create new programs to help even more families.

Project EverGreen was one of more than 300 organizations to enter the Joining Forces recognition contest. The contest was narrowed down to 20 winners and a public comment period was opened to garner votes. The Peo-ple’s Choice Winner was Our Family for Families First Foundation. The top five winners were: Armed Forces Service Center, Defending the Blue Line, Give an Hour, Project Sanctu-ary and the City of Richfield, Utah.

GreenCare for Troops finished in the top ten. Thank you to all of our green industry supporters who took the time to vote daily in the online campaign.

The top 20 finalists were invited to the White House to attend a special program. Among the speakers were Tom Brokaw, NBC News special

correspondent; First Lady Michelle Obama; and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden.

“Jill and I are so proud of all of these finalists and the work that they have done for our military community,” said Obama, “Our military families demon-strate such strength, service and sacri-fice every single day, and we’re so grateful for everyone who is stepping up to give back to these families. The challenge winners are leading by ex-ample, and showing that all of us can find a way to serve those who serve us.”

Brokaw recognized the inspiring citi-zenship displayed through these pro-grams. In her brief presentation, Biden briefly described three of the 20 pro-grams, including GreenCare for Troops.

Project EverGreen’s GreenCare for Troops has seen tremendous growth since it began five years ago and shows no signs of slowing down. GreenCare for Troops program has served thou-sands of military families with free lawn care and landscape services across the entire country. GreenCare for Troops is underwritten by Cub Cadet. Many GreenCare for Troops volunteers also participate in the sister program SnowCare for Troops underwritten by BOSS Snowplow.

There is still a need for volunteers as currently more than 10,000 military families have signed up to receive ser-vices from GreenCare for Troops. More than 4,000 volunteers are registered to provide services, but more volunteers, labor and materials are needed. If you or anyone you know is interested in learning more about becoming a volun-teer or donating to the programs, visit www.projectevergreen.com/gcft .

Project EverGreen’s GreenCare for Troops program was recognized April 11 by the White House and First Lady Michelle Obama in a ceremony on the south lawn.

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News – First Lady Michelle Obama Feature

Beautiful Gardens New Plant Introduction,

VT Spirit Daylily [Excerpt from Mrs. Obama’s ad-dress to the Virginia Tech graduating

class of 2012.]

MRS. OBAMA:

“Thank you all. Thank you so much. Well,

hello, Hokies! (Applause.) I like say-ing that. It is such a pleasure and an honor to be here today to celebrate the Virginia Tech class of 2012. Way to go. Way to go.

In fact, I feel like all of you have so much to teach all of us. And that’s really what I want to talk about today. I want to talk about the lessons that all of us in this country can learn from this university. I want to talk about what we can learn from the community you’ve built, from the service you’ve performed, and from the future that you all are inventing together.

And I want to start with the lesson that you all have taught us about the power of community. As you all know and was mentioned earlier, the very first student at this university walked 26 miles just to enroll here. Now, to normal people that might seem a little excessive, but to anyone who knows anything about Hokie pride, it's that level of enthusiasm that's pretty much par for the course here, right? Whether you’re walking around campus decked out in your maroon and orange or cheering your hearts out to the opening beats of "Enter Sandman," few can match the school spirit on display here at Vir-ginia Tech.

I even hear that you’ve bred your own variety of flower -- a maroon and orange daylily known as the



“VT Spirit.” And during your first days at this school you learned that when someone asks you “What is a Hokie?” -- what’s your answer?

AUDIENCE: I am!

MRS. OBAMA: What is a Hokie?

AUDIENCE: I am!

MRS. OBAMA: And when someone says “Let’s go,” you answer --

AUDIENCE: Hokies!

MRS. OBAMA: They told me you’d do that. (Laughter.) That's very cool.

And whether you’re celebrating your triumphs or coming together in times of tragedy, what is clear is that you all didn’t just choose to attend a school, you chose to be part of a community. And that feeling of be-longing, those connections to your classmates and professors, I know for so many of you that’s what has made your time here so special.

News - NanoQuantics Earns USDA Certified

Biobased Product Label Soil Sentinel Verified to Contain 97% of Renewable

Biobased Ingredients

Wise, Virginia (July 10, 2012) — NanoQuantics, Inc., an advanced ma-terials company, has completed vol-untary biobased product certification and earned the USDA Certified Bi-obased Product Label for its Soil Sen-tinel® product. Biobased products are goods composed in whole or in sig-nificant part of agricultural, forestry,

or marine materials. The USDA Cer-tified Biobased Product Label verifies that the product's amount of renewa-ble biobased ingredients meets or ex-ceeds prescribed USDA standards.

"NanoQuantics' organic solution can increase crop production and decrease operating costs while greatly reduc-ing an operations' carbon footprint," said Tim Hopkins, Vice President and Chief Technology Officer. "Having this label present on our packaging will help customers more quickly identify us as providing an all-natural, sustainable solution."

Soil Sentinel soil amendment also qualifies for the BioPreferred Federal Purchasing program for U.S. gov-ernment agencies and contractors. These are products within categories that the USDA has designated for Federal Procurement Preference. Products within these categories are afforded preference by Federal agen-cies and their contractors when mak-

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ing purchasing decisions.

Independent labs verify all biobased-content claims and the USDA moni-tors those claims. That means the consumer can feel secure in the accu-racy of the biobased content and be empowered by making better in-formed purchasing decisions. The USDA Certified Biobased Product label verifies that NanoQuantics' Soil Sentinel contains (97%) of renewable biobased ingredients.

"The USDA BioPreferred program has received more than 1,100 applica-tions through the voluntary labeling initiative, and has certified more than 700 products to date. We expect to see these numbers grow as more con-sumers look for the USDA Certified Biobased Product Label when pur-chasing more renewable biobased goods," said Kate Lewis, USDA Bio-Preferred program deputy manager. "Biobased products provide opportu-nities to help add value to renewable agricultural commodities create jobs in rural communities and help reduce our Nation's dependence on oil. We are pleased that NanoQuantics is join-ing in those efforts."

The label is on NanoQuantics' certi-fied products and available for con-sumers today. Each label is custom-ized to show the product's biobased amount so consumers can be assured of the accuracy of the content.

Product Field Tests Clover is a nitrogen-generating plant and fixes it in the soil. Wineries often plant clover as a cover crop between the vine rows to ensure flavor en-hancement. The clover crop also pro-vides erosion and dust control. NanoQuantics' did a demonstration on an area of the vineyard cover crops to see if SOIL SENTINEL would help to produce a healthier clover crop in a less time. The photos here show the results after 10 and 30 days.

Untreated area

Treated area For more information about NanoQuan-tics and its solutions, see its web site at

www.nanoquantics.com

Tips - First Mobile App for Landscape and

Nursery Professionals Developed by a Team of Plant and Pest Experts from Seven

Major Universities

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Green In-dustry professionals often find them-selves in the field needing immediate access to pest and plant disease in-formation and plant care recommen-dations. Or, they need to be alerted when destructive pests emerge in

their area. Thanks to a collaborative effort of horticulturists, entomologists and plant pathologists at seven land-grant universities, now there's an app for that.

The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture together with Clem-son, North Carolina State University, University of Georgia, University of Kentucky, University of Maryland and Virginia Polytechnic Institute have developed the first Integrated Pest Management mobile app for nursery growers, landscapers, arbor-ists, Extension agents and students that includes the major horticultural practices and disease and insect rec-ommendations.

IPMPro will streamline pest man-agement decision-making, employee training, and will make complying with state pesticide recordkeeping



regulations easy. The mobile app is available for iPhone, iPad, and An-droid.

Built by horticulture and pest man-agement experts in cooperation with growers and landscapers, IPMPro was built for USDA Plant Hardiness Zones four through eight, which in-clude 22 states from west of the Mis-sissippi River, east and north to Penn-sylvania and New Jersey, and south to the Gulf Coast.

“Nursery and landscape professionals conduct business on the go; they truly have a mobile office – often their truck,” explained Amy Fulcher, lead developer and University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture plant scientist. “IPMPro dramatically simplifies day-to-day plant care and pest control deci-sion-making in the field. It provides a library of information in the conven-ience of an app, and features real-time alerts to help professionals stay on top of emerging pests and timely plant care.”

IPMPro is like having an expert in the field with the user to: Receive text-like alerts for time-

sensitive pest issues and plant care - alert date adjusted to loca-tion

Consult images, pest lifecycle, and management options for ma-jor pests of woody plants

Reference how-to information and images of cultural practices

Obtain pesticide recommenda-tions for major diseases and in-sects

Utilize built-in pesticide record-keeping for documentation while outdoors

Track pests and cultural practices in calendar view or a chronologi-cal list

Assist in educating new employ-ees and experienced professionals

John Watson, with Common Grounds Landscape Management in Knox-ville, Tennessee, got an early intro-duction to the IPM app. “My first thought was, ‘Where have you been?’ Most of the time we get so busy put-ting out fires we forget that the best thing we could do is prevent fires,” he explained. “This is just the kind of thing the industry needs. Now we have the best opportunity to head off pest issues that can wreak havoc for nursery and landscape professionals and for homeowners.”

This is the first application of its kind developed in the United States, and it

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was made possible through funding by the UT Institute of Agriculture through its Extension and AgResearch units and in cooperation with the University of Tennessee Re-search Foundation. For less than a subscription for non-interactive tools like books and magazines that profes-sionals currently use, IPMPro is $24.99 and is available through Ap-ple and Android marketplaces. For more information on the application, visit http://www.IPMProApp.com.

Coming soon for homeowners - IPMLite

The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture provides instruction, research and public service through the UT College of Agricultural Sci-ences and Natural Resources, the UT College of Veterinary Medicine, UT AgResearch, including its system of 10 research and education centers, and UT Extension offices in every county in the state.

Members of the development in-cluded from Virginia– Dr. Jeff

Derr, VA Tech HRAREC, [email protected] ; (757) 363-3912

For more information visit http://www.IPMProApp.com

News - Leadership Torch is Passed at Virginia Agribusiness Council

Richmond, VA – G. Eric Holter, Chairman of the Virginia Agribusi-ness Council, has formally announced that Katie K. Frazier has been named President of the Virginia Agribusi-ness Council, effective July 1, 2012. Current President Donna Pugh John-son will retire from the Council at the end of June after an accomplished 18-year career with the organization.

Frazier, a graduate of Virginia Tech, has spent her career representing the interests of agriculture and forestry. After working for the Council from 2004-2011, Katie worked for the Al-

liance Group in Richmond and served as the Executive Director for the Vir-ginia Grain Producers Association and Virginia Wine Council.

She returned to the Agribusiness Council in May 2012 to transition to her new position as President. “Katie brings a wealth of experience with her to this position after working with the Council for seven years as V ice President of Government Affairs, rep-resenting our membership and indus-try to state and federal officials,” not-ed Holter. “Her strong leadership skills, know ledge of the agribusiness industry, and passion for the Council and our members will enable our or-ganization to continue building upon our success as we collectively address legislative and regulatory challenges and opportunities in the future.”

Chairman of the Board Eric Holter stated, “I want to thank Donna for her steadfast commitment and work rep-resenting the Virginia Agribusiness Council throughout the years. She has performed a great service for the Board, staff, members, and the agri-business community. She has been the "face of the Virginia Agribusiness Council" with strong representation in Richmond and throughout the Commonwealth. Her efforts have made it easy for us as a Board to make this transition.”

Johnson’s career with the Virginia Agribusiness Council began in 1994 after eighteen years with the Farm

Credit System. Reflecting on her ca-reer with the Council, Johnson com-mented, “It has been an extreme pleasure to work with our agribusi-ness community to represent their interests with our elected officials in Richmond and Washington, D.C. With the support and guidance of our Board of Directors, I have endeav-ored to advance the Council's mission and ensure it is a well-respected and effective organization. Together we have achieved much on behalf of our agribusiness industry which will no doubt continue under Katie’s capable leadership.”

Frazier commented, “The Virginia Agribusiness Council is a tremendous organization that effectively and deci-sively represents the interests of agri-culture, forestry, and agribusiness in the Commonwealth. Donna John-son’s accomplishments on behalf of the Council have been tremendous, and it has been an honor and privilege to work with her.” Frazier went on to conclude, “I am committed to the Council and the agribusinesses, land-owners, and farms we represent. I am excited to have the opportunity to serve the Council and industry alike.”

The Virginia Agribusiness Council represents agricultural and forestry producers, suppliers, marketers, pro-cessors and commodity associations in the Commonwealth with a unified voice through its government affairs activities. The Council has a com-bined membership of over 40,000. For more information on the Virginia Agribusiness Council, visit www.va-agribusiness.org . Virginia Agribusiness Council, Contact:

Katie K. Frazier, (804) 643-3555 ([email protected])


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VNLA - Board Meeting 6/9/12

Norris Hall, VA Tech, Blacksburg, VA

Mission Statement: To enhance and promote Virginia’s nursery and landscape industry Vision Statement: To be the leader and resource for the Virginia nurse-ry and landscape industry Meeting Call to Order by Steve Grigg, Pres.at 9:08 a.m. with the fol-lowing present: Matt Sawyer, Matt Shreckhise, Roger Harris, Jeff Miller, Jim Owen, Sonya Westervelt, Tom Thompson, Virginia Rockwell, Mike Hildebrand, Dawn Lerch and Bill Gouldin (Absent: Cheryl Lajoie, John Barbieri, Mark Maslow)

VNLA Dashboard Metrics Current Membership 654 Membership 1 year ago Peak Membership NOT Renewed 176 Current VCH Count VCH Count 1 Year ago Total Income YTD 105,218 Budget Year 399,310 Total Income YTD 103,603 Total Expenses YTD 139,087 Budget Year 393,250 Total Expenses YTD 100,757 (Above income/expenses does not include the extra $20,000 from MANTS, so it will

compare to 2011 income/expenses) We do not have YTD membership and VCH counts from previous years by

month, only annual totals in the past.

Dave Close, Master Gardener Pro-gram Coordinator – Jeff introduced Dave Close and did a brief review of discussion over the last couple of years on converting the Master Gar-dener Manual to an electronic format and options to make it available to VNLA members online and still pro-vide a revenue stream for the VNLA and the MG Program. Dave presented a short video on the Master Gardener Program. He is also taking on addi-tional responsibilities on July 1 work-ing with 4-H and FFA groups. He has been researching the best procedure to convert the MG Manual to elec-tronic format and is now working with a program that is compatible with Apple computers, iPads, etc.

Secretary’s Report – Matt Shreck-hise: a motion was made to approve the minutes of the February 29, 2012 VNLA Board Meeting as emailed to the board, seconded and passed.

Treasurer’s Report – Matt Shreck-hise reviewed copies of the Balance sheet and P&L as of 4/30/12 and Jeff explained the journal entry discrepan-cy of the transfer of funds to the Rainy Day fund, which the CPA will correct. A motion was made to ap-prove the financial reports as present-ed, seconded, and passed.

President’s Update – Steve Grigg requested that all board members re-view and update their officer/director job descriptions by the October meet-ing for a block discussion at that time.

Executive Director Evaluation and Contract Renewal Planning – Steve reported that he, Mark Maslow, Matt Sawyer, Matt Shreckhise, Sonya Westervelt, Dawn Lerch and Mile Hildebrand had summarized the board evaluations by six board mem-bers and had provided a copy to Jeff Miller. They also updated the execu-tive director job description and have requested a proposal for another 3-year contract from Horticulture Man-agement Associates LLC and they will meet in the near future to review

the proposal.

VGIC Meeting – Steve Grigg report-ed on the planning meeting the Vir-ginia Green Industry Council had on June 6 in Richmond to review future direction for the VGIC. Many of the activities of the VGIC have been tied in with the State Fair, including the consumer GoGreen Garden Festival and these were major revenue streams for the VGIC. It was the consensus of the meeting that the VGIC should be the umbrella group for the green in-dustry groups in Virginia. To that end, the VGIC felt that it needed to develop an expanded relationship with the VNLA. This motion was made at the VGIC meeting which Steve presented to the Board: “The VGIC has put forth a motion of will-ful intent to explore a possible future relationship with VNLA.”

The consensus of the VNLA Board was that the VGIC should in some way come under the umbrella of the VNLA with the VNLA being the face to the public and that the VGIC should be more legislatively involved in issues that affect all the green in-dustry groups.

A motion was made that “the VNLA is willing to investigate this relation-ship further and asked the VGIC to present a proposal to the VNLA on how to pull the organizations together to be more effective.” Seconded and passed.

Shoosmith Scholarships – Steve reported that there were more and better applicants this year and an-nounced the following scholarship awards:

2 scholarships to 2 year Commu-nity College for $750 each

o Alysha Lawless, Patrick Henry Commu-nity College

o Judy Zatsick, Northern VA Community College

3 scholarships to 4 yr College for $1,500 each

56 July / August / September 2012 VNLA Newsletter56 July/August/September 2012 VNLA Newsletter

VNLA - Board Meeting 6/9/12

Norris Hall, VA Tech, Blacksburg, VA

Mission Statement: To enhance and promote Virginia’s nursery and landscape industry Vision Statement: To be the leader and resource for the Virginia nurse-ry and landscape industry Meeting Call to Order by Steve Grigg, Pres.at 9:08 a.m. with the fol-lowing present: Matt Sawyer, Matt Shreckhise, Roger Harris, Jeff Miller, Jim Owen, Sonya Westervelt, Tom Thompson, Virginia Rockwell, Mike Hildebrand, Dawn Lerch and Bill Gouldin (Absent: Cheryl Lajoie, John Barbieri, Mark Maslow)

VNLA Dashboard Metrics Current Membership 654 Membership 1 year ago Peak Membership NOT Renewed 176 Current VCH Count VCH Count 1 Year ago Total Income YTD Apr’12

105,218 Budget Year 399,310 Total Income YTD Apr’11

103,603 Total Expenses YTD Apr’12

139,087 Budget Year 393,250 Total Expenses YTD Apr’11

100,757 (Above income/expenses does not include the extra $20,000 from MANTS, so it will

compare to 2011 income/expenses) We do not have YTD membership and VCH counts from previous years by

month, only annual totals in the past. Dave Close, Master Gardener Pro-gram Coordinator – Jeff introduced Dave Close and did a brief review of discussion over the last couple of years on converting the Master Gar-dener Manual to an electronic format and options to make it available to VNLA members online and still pro-vide a revenue stream for the VNLA and the MG Program. Dave presented a short video on the Master Gardener Program. He is also taking on addi-tional responsibilities on July 1 work-ing with 4-H and FFA groups. He has been researching the best procedure to convert the MG Manual to elec-tronic format and is now working with a program that is compatible with Apple computers, iPads, etc.

Secretary’s Report – Matt Shreck-hise: a motion was made to approve the minutes of the February 29, 2012 VNLA Board Meeting as emailed to the board, seconded and passed.

Treasurer’s Report – Matt Shreck-hise reviewed copies of the Balance sheet and P&L as of 4/30/12 and Jeff explained the journal entry discrepan-cy of the transfer of funds to the Rainy Day fund, which the CPA will correct. A motion was made to ap-prove the financial reports as present-ed, seconded, and passed.

President’s Update – Steve Grigg requested that all board members re-view and update their officer/director job descriptions by the October meet-ing for a block discussion at that time.

Executive Director Evaluation and Contract Renewal Planning – Steve reported that he, Mark Maslow, Matt Sawyer, Matt Shreckhise, Sonya Westervelt, Dawn Lerch and Mile Hildebrand had summarized the board evaluations by six board mem-bers and had provided a copy to Jeff Miller. They also updated the execu-tive director job description and have requested a proposal for another 3-year contract from Horticulture Man-agement Associates LLC and they

will meet in the near future to review the proposal.

VGIC Meeting – Steve Grigg report-ed on the planning meeting the Vir-ginia Green Industry Council had on June 6 in Richmond to review future direction for the VGIC. Many of the activities of the VGIC have been tied in with the State Fair, including the consumer GoGreen Garden Festival and these were major revenue streams for the VGIC. It was the consensus of the meeting that the VGIC should be the umbrella group for the green in-dustry groups in Virginia. To that end, the VGIC felt that it needed to develop an expanded relationship with the VNLA. This motion was made at the VGIC meeting which Steve presented to the Board: “The VGIC has put forth a motion of will-ful intent to explore a possible future relationship with VNLA.”

The consensus of the VNLA Board was that the VGIC should in some way come under the umbrella of the VNLA with the VNLA being the face to the public and that the VGIC should be more legislatively involved in issues that affect all the green in-dustry groups.

A motion was made that “the VNLA is willing to investigate this relation-ship further and asked the VGIC to present a proposal to the VNLA on how to pull the organizations together to be more effective.” Seconded and passed.

Shoosmith Scholarships – Steve reported that there were more and better applicants this year and an-nounced the following scholarship awards:

• 2 scholarships to 2 year Commu-nity College for $750 each

o Alysha Lawless, Patrick Henry Commu-nity College

o Judy Zatsick, Northern VA Community College

• 3 scholarships to 4 yr College for

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Executive Director Update – Jeff Miller Report was emailed prior to the meeting. He reviewed some of the highlights from the NLAE meeting in San Antonio and issues that are fac-ing other states that are similar to ours as well as issues that are on the horizon that will be affecting Virgin-ia. Also included were notes from “Race for Relevance” which as an all-day discussion on how associations need to be changing to meet member needs and demographics. The key to success is focusing energy and re-sources on meeting well-defined member needs and problems, rather than trying to be all things to all peo-ple in hopes of maximizing member-

ship and dues income.

Website review online: Jeff gave an online review of the new VNLA website and requested input from the board on any aspects of the website, content, location of content, etc. He also reviewed the VNLA’s CapWiz legislative website link http://capwiz.com/anla/va/home/ , which is a partnership with the AN-LA, and is an easy way for members to contact state and federal legislators on current issues in just a couple of minutes.

Committee Reports: Legislation – Virginia Rockwell re-viewed the following issues: Chesapeake Bay and TMDL up-dates WIP – (Watershed Implementation Plan) public comment period has ended, but there are still areas that need standardization Nutrient Management Planning – nursery production is not included now, but will be in 2017. There is a

need for cost-share programs to im-plement nutrient management plans River Friendly Yards is working with Conserv and Virginia Rockwell with demonstration landscapes in the Fredericksburg area. Currently, there are not any Bay credits available for the use of trees and shrubs for storm water runoff reduction. Environmental Affairs - Tom Thompson attended a congograss and noxious weed regulation meeting where VDACS is review their nox-ious weed regulations and coordina-tion of legislative issues with invasive plants.

LEED Certification Classes – (see attached report) It was the consensus to have member registration at $325 and non-member registration at $395. This will also be promoted to the VSLD, the Home Builders, APLD and the James River Green Building Council.

Certification – (see attached report)

Ad – Shreckhise Nurseries



Public Relations – (see attached re-port) Sonya and Jeff discussed the DCR “Plant More Plants” program and the possibility of adding the li-censing of the “Plant Something” program which has been adopted by 8-10 states and was funded by USDA Specialty Crop Grants in Arizona, but has been setup to be customizable for any state. No action was taken. This will be submitted to the budget com-mittee in the fall.

Field Day and Summer Tour: Sonya gave credit to Annmari Inger-soll for all the planning for the 2011 Field Day and Summer Tour at Ingle-side Plantation Nurseries. Sonya Westervelt and Virginia Rockwell reviews plans for field day and work-ing on final details. The brochure is at the printer for final layout. Virginia noted that the host site should help solicit vendors/sponsors.

MANTS Update – Doug Hensel (ab-sent)

Research – Matt Sawyer brought up the question if it is worthwhile to continue the research auction/gala, considering the time investment and diminishing returns for the last sever-al years, which the economy has had a big impact on the net revenue. He asked for suggestions for alternative plans, locations, ideas. They are ten-tatively considering having the 2013 event at Phillips Restaurant at Har-borPlace.

Beautiful Gardens – attached is a written report from Lisa Lipsey, Beautiful Gardens program coordina-tor at Virginia Tech.

CRITICAL ACTION ITEMS (based on strategic plan) 1a. Discussion of Boxwood Blight

Research and Funding Update – Jeff will contact researchers about submitting any funding re-quests before the VNLA October Budget Meeting.

1b. Field Day 2012 –Salem Home Show – Sonya reported that the event went well with co-

sponsoring the event and getting VNLA members to help staff the booth. For future events like this the VNLA should have more in-formational brochures/signs available.

1c. Arbor Day – There was not an Arbor Day tree planting at the Capitol this year.

2. Enhance certification program – Cheryl Lajoie (absent) see at-tached notes on things the certifi-cation committee is doing and is considering. a. Online reviews b. CEU verification online c. Standardized testing format

across professional organiza-tions

d. Certification Manual revi-sions/online

3. Identify VNLA Legislative Pri-orities and Agendas – Virginia Rockwell, Matt Shreckhise, Steve Grigg a. Identify areas of concern for

membership – still to be de-termined

b. Proactively educate legisla-tors on the size/impact of green industry – still to be de-termined

c. Solicit VAC for aide in legis-lative issues - ongoing

d. Network with our legislators 4. Public Relations and Commu-

nications – Mark Maslow, Sonya Westervelt, Jeff Miller a. Streamline Newsletter publi-

cations quantities and layout – still to be determined

b. Reduce e-blasts and re format to be easier to read – changes have been made

c. Increase participation in the grower’s guide and enhance the publication – it was sug-gested to have a code listing for native plants, other changes still to be determined

TASK LIST FOR NEXT MEETING

1. Review officer and board

job descriptions 2. Follow up on the critical ac-

tion items listed above Adjournment: Being no other busi-ness, the meeting was adjourned at 3:23 p.m.

Respectively submitted, Jeff Miller Exec. Dir.

UPCOMING VNLA EVENTS - VNLA Field Day/Summer Tour, Au-gust 8-9, 2012, Battlefield Farms, Orange, VA MANTS Board Meeting – September 30 – October 2 Fall Budget Meeting TBA in October Fall Board Meeting TBA in October

Tips – Employee or Independent Contractor?

Are you in Compliance? Fact Sheet #13: Employment Relationship Under the Fair

Labor Standards Act Characteristics

An employment relationship under the FLSA must be distinguished from a strictly contractual one. Such a rela-tionship must exist for any provision of the FLSA to apply to any person engaged in work which may other-wise be subject to the Act. In the ap-plication of the FLSA an employee, as distinguished from a person who is engaged in a business of his or her own, is one who, as a matter of eco-nomic reality, follows the usual path of an employee and is dependent on the business which he or she serves. The employer-employee relationship under the FLSA is tested by "eco-nomic reality" rather than "technical concepts." It is not determined by the common law standards relating to master and servant.



The U.S. Supreme Court has on a number of occasions indicated that there is no single rule or test for de-termining whether an individual is an independent contractor or an employ-ee for purposes of the FLSA. The Court has held that it is the total ac-tivity or situation which controls. Among the factors which the Court has considered significant are:

1. The extent to which the services rendered are an integral part of the principal's business.

2. The permanency of the relation-ship.

3. The amount of the alleged con-tractor's investment in facilities and equipment.

4. The nature and degree of control by the principal.

5. The alleged contractor's opportu-nities for profit and loss.

6. The amount of initiative, judg-ment, or foresight in open market competition with others required for the success of the claimed in-dependent contractor.

7. The degree of independent busi-ness organization and operation.

There are certain factors which are immaterial in determining whether there is an employment relationship. Such facts as the place where work is performed, the absence of a formal employment agreement, or whether an alleged independent contractor is licensed by State/local government are not considered to have a bearing on determinations as to whether there is an employment relationship. Addi-tionally, the Supreme Court has held that the time or mode of pay does not control the determination of employ-ee status.

Requirements When it has been determined that an employer-employee relationship does exist, and the employee is engaged in work that is subject to the Act, it is required that the employee be paid at least the Federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour effective July 24, 2009, and in most cases overtime at

time and one-half his/her regular rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 per week. The Act also has youth employment provisions regu-late the employment of minors under the age of eighteen, as well as record-keeping, requirements.

Typical Problems

1. One of the most common prob-lems is in the construction indus-try where contractors hire so-called independent contractors, who in reality should be consid-ered employees because they do not meet the tests for independ-ence, as stated above.

2. Franchise arrangements can pose problems in this area as well. De-pending on the level of control the franchisor has over the fran-chisee, employees of the latter may be considered to be em-ployed by the franchisor.

3. A situation involving a person volunteering his or her services for another may also result in an

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employment relationship. For ex-ample, a person who is an em-ployee cannot "volunteer" his/her services to the employer to per-form the same type service per-formed as an employee. Of course, individuals may volunteer or donate their services to reli-gious, public service, and non-profit organizations, without con-templation of pay, and not be considered employees of such or-ganization.

4. Trainees or students may also be employees, depending on the cir-cumstances of their activities for the employer.

5. People who perform work at their own home are often improperly considered as independent con-tractors. The Act covers such homeworkers as employees and they are entitled to all benefits of the law.

This publication is for general infor-mation and is not to be considered in the same light as official statements of position contained in the regula-tions.

For additional information, visit our Wage and Hour Division Website:

http://www.wagehour.dol.gov and/or call our toll-free information and help-line, available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in your time zone, 1-866- 4USWAGE (1-866-

487-9243).

Tips - Greenhouse Construction Safety:

Fall Protection The purpose of this article, concern-ing Greenhouse Construction Safety, is to inform the reader of the Risks for fall in Plastic Roof Covering and the challenges we have experienced with designing the right Fall Protec-tion Program. By sharing our experi-ence, we hope to draw awareness to the risk of falling with plastic cover-ing in the Greenhouse Industry. We also hope that our colleagues in the Greenhouse Industry understand the

urgency of adopting a Fall Protection Program.

Introduction During the fall of 2011, Battlefield Farms, Inc was constructing a new greenhouse, when we experienced a disabling accident. One of our em-ployees was covering the roof with plastic along with a team of other workers. He lost his balance and fell from the greenhouse roof to the con-crete floor 15 feet below. Fortunately the employee did not perish but his life will be changed forever. The im-pact of the fall caused severe and ir-reversible spinal cord injuries that left him a paraplegic. Had the roofing crew been equipped with the proper fall protection equipment, this acci-dent may have been prevented.

History For 40 years of the owner’s experi-ence in the greenhouse industry, a fall of this nature had never occurred and they did not know of anyone in the industry using fall protection equip-ment. We were in anguish that an accident of this magnitude would happen and desperate to prevent it from occurring again.

Research We did not realize how frequent inju-ries from falls occur at the workplace. After some internet research on OSHA’s website, we soon discovered that “falls are among the most com-mon causes of serious work related injuries and deaths,” (1). It is also important to note that the top “fatal four” of the leading causes of worker deaths on construction sites included falls, and the OSHA website reads that “falls accounted for 260 out of 751 total deaths in construction in CY 2010,”(2). Our Virginia OSHA in-spector clarified to us that the OSHA standards change depending on the job the employee is doing. If the task is considered construction, even if he is an agricultural worker, he must abide by the 1926 Construction In-

dustry Standards. According to the 1926 Construction guidelines, a worker must have fall protection at a height off the ground of 6 ft. There are many types of fall protection to choose from: safety nets, horizontal and vertical lifelines, and fall arrest systems. The structure that the fall protection equipment is anchored to is the limiting factor because it has to withstand the force of the falling per-son.

Developing a Fall Protection Program

With the guidance from our Risk Control Consultants of BB&T Insur-ance we were able to develop a Fall Protection program including hazard recognition, training, and enforce-ment. Our Department Supervisors completed an OSHA 10 hour course and our greenhouse workers received training on Fall Protection and Fall Arrest Systems. Fall Protection Equipment designed to attach to the weak greenhouse framework proved to be a little more difficult to come across. Working with the engineers that designed our structure we were able to implement a safety net system compliant with OSHA guidelines. This netting system involved 1500 ft of galvanized aircraft cable, 12 Safety Nets that were 12 x 50 ft, 250 Nylon Loop Runners, and some miscellane-ous hardware. Workers used scissor lifts to install the cables parallel to the steel beams that ran the length of the greenhouse and the nets were fas-tened to them. After passing the drop test with a 500 lb bag of sand the workers could safely resume covering the greenhouse roof. (Pictures on page 3)

Future Complications and Resolutions

The Safety Net system worked in an empty greenhouse but it occurred to us that the watering booms, shade cloth, and miscellaneous wires in a finished greenhouse would interfere with this type of fall protection. Eve-ry four years the plastic roofs would



need to be replaced and we would have to develop a different fall pro-tection system. Working with our engineers from our greenhouse de-sign company, we came up with a horizontal lifeline that will be perma-nently installed in our gutters. The actual gutter cannot be the anchor point because it is made from alumi-num but the cable can be fastened at either end to the steel framework. Employees that will be reinstalling the plastic roofing in our greenhouse must wear a fall arrest system that anchors into this cable in the gutter.

Conclusion After the fall we have learned so much about our role in protecting our employees from occupational haz-ards. We now know what steps to take to develop a successful fall pro-tection plan. This accident has culti-vated our awareness and we have made a significant investment in training, equipment and implementa-tion. We are dedicated to providing a safe work environment and want to share our experience in hopes that we can prevent similar events from oc-curring in our industry.

By Julie Brooks

Images of Safety Nets

Lift and safety nets

Fall Arrest System Anchored in the Gutter:

Citations http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/fallprotection/index.html

http://www.osha.gov/oshstats/commonstats.html Sara Hoover, Safety Consultant – VOSH,

Department of Labor and Industry, 10515 Battleview Parkway, Manassas,

VA 20109; P: (703) 392-0900 EXT. 105; F: (703) 392-0308;

[email protected]

Tips – National Tree Calculator

i-Tree is a state-of-the-art, peer-reviewed soft-ware suite from the USDA Forest Service

that provides urban forestry analysis and benefits assessment tools. The i-Tree Tools help communities of all sizes to strengthen their urban forest management and advocacy efforts by quantifying the structure of commu-nity trees and the environmental ser-

vices that trees provide.

Since the initial release of the i-Tree Tools in August 2006, numerous communities, non-profit organiza-tions, consultants, volunteers and stu-dents have used i-Tree to report on individual trees, parcels, neighbor-hoods, cities, and even entire states. By understanding the local, tangible ecosystem services that trees provide, i-Tree users can link urban forest management activities with environ-mental quality and community liva-bility. Whether your interest is a sin-gle tree or an entire forest, i-Tree provides baseline data that you can use to demonstrate value and set pri-orities for more effective decision-making.

i-Tree Tools are in the public domain and are freely accessible. We invite you to explore this site to learn more about how i-Tree can make a differ-ence in your community.

National Tree Benefit Calculator

The Tree Benefit Calculator allows anyone to make a simple estimation of the benefits individual street-side trees provide. This tool is based on i-Trees street tree assessment tool called STREETS. With inputs of location, species and tree size, users will get an understanding of the envi-ronmental and economic value trees provide on an annual basis.

The Tree Benefit Calculator is in-tended to be simple and accessible. As such, this tool should be consid-ered a starting point for understand-ing trees' value in the community, rather than a scientific accounting of precise values. For more detailed in-formation on urban and community forest assessments, visit the i-Tree website.

http://www.itreetools.org/index.php


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VNLA Newsletter 71November / December 2007VNLA Newsletter 65September / October 2007

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November/December 2007 VNLA Newsletter 70

Designing With Elegant Silvers, Striking Plants for

Every Garden; Saturday, January 19, 9:30 - 11:00 am

Silvers are the shimmering chameleons of the plant king-

dom. Their silvery appearance is caused by water-conserving hairs, scales, powder, waxy coatings or air

bubbles. The beauty and drought-tolerance of familiar

downy silvers such as lamb's ears and artemisias have long

made them favorites in the herb garden and perennial bor-der.

Karen Bussolini will discuss and show beautiful slides of the many inventive ways gardeners across the United

States have used these stalwart plants in containers, bor-

ders or the larger landscape. She will pay special attention to the use of silvers for our hot and humid summers, pro-

tective adaptations, and using color and texture to create

exciting combinations. She will also touch on historical

uses from medieval times to modern xeriscaping. $20 members / $30 non-members.

Copies of The Unsung Season and Elegant Silvers will be available for purchase at each lecture, and the author will

sign copies.

Down to Earth Gardening; Saturday, February 2, 8:30

am - 4:30 pm

A horticulture symposium on gardening smarter, problem solving and going green with the best new plants

Join Horticulture magazine and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden for a day-long garden symposium featuring these

topics and speakers:

Gardening Smarter, Problem Solving and Going

Green: Nan Sinton

Down to Earth Gardening with keynote speaker, Ireland's

Helen Dillon -It's more than putting plants together and

making pictures in the garden. See how to rethink, re-

design and manage change in a smaller space

The Elements of Organic Gardening with David How-

ard, head gardener to HRH The Prince of Wales. Explore the process of creating an organic garden the Highgrove

way.

Conifers to Fit Your Space with Richard L. Bitner. See

how to choose conifers that fit smaller gardens, and add

year-round interest to problem sites.

Plants that Go Green with Bill Cullina

Registration fees: $129 regular rate / $119 for Horticulture subscribers and Lewis Ginter members. Registration avail-

able through Horticulture magazine only at

www.hortprograms.com or call toll-free 1-877-GDN-PROG (1-877-436-7764)

Tree Care Symposium February 15

Professionals in tree care, green industry professionals,

and advanced gardeners are invited to attend the Tree Care

Symposium, Friday, February 15, 2008, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. To receive a detailed program, email regis-

[email protected]

A Workshop for Professionals on Designing with Stone

Gordon Hayward, garden designer and author; Friday,

March 7, 9 am - 1:30 pm (9 am - 12 pm workshop, 12-1:30 pm lunch & conversation with Gordon Hayward)

Walls and walkways, terraces and steps, benches, boulders and bedrock, water and stone, standing stones and sculp-

ture - stone is at once beautiful and useful in the landscape.

In this day-long workshop for professionals, you will learn

how to design with stone to create a lasting framework as well as a wide range of stone features, ornaments and de-

tails that will add a sense of age and permanence to your

client's garden. Gordon will also discuss the practical is-sues of setting walkways, terraces, and walls, how to set

boulders and standing stones, and how to site any number

of stone garden features to underpin the garden's itinerary. $75 Garden and VSLD, VNLA, and AS LA members/ $85

non-members. Presented in cooperation with the Univer-

sity of Richmond School of Continuing Studies Landscape

Design Certificate Program. Recent Alumni and current students of this program should contact the Program Spe-

cialist, Gary Ray, for a special offer.

Small Buildings, Small Gardens, Saturday, Mar. 8, 9:30 - 11:30 am

Join acclaimed garden designer and author Gordon Hayward for this discussion about structures in small gar-

dens. Hayward looks closely at how gardeners can use

small buildings and built structures such as gazeboes and

arbors, pergolas and bridges, fences and decks to help find just the right place for new gardens. Learn how these

structures ease the design process by helping you see how

to develop new gardens in relation to existing or new structures. Built structures in our gardens are magnets for

family, guests and visitors. Learn how structures help

viewers frame their relationship to the garden. Finally,

when you see how built structures in your garden provide anchors, centers and starting places for good garden de-

sign, you will gain confidence in designing your own gar-

dens. $25 members / $35 non-members.

Gordon Hayward's book Small Buildings, Small Gardens

will be available for purchase and signing.

For more information or to register contact Phyllis Laslett at

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden; [email protected]


Tips - If You Think the Outdoor Patio Season Is

Over, Think Again

Instead of packing up the patio furni-ture and putting it away in the shed, tying down the barbeque grill, hang-ing up the barbeque apron, and saying good-bye to the many facets of back-yard family activities, outdoor living aficionados are stretching the creature comforts of the summer season thanks to the wide range of products that are readily available in the mar-ketplace. With the advent of the out-

door room came a spectrum of ameni-ties ranging from elaborate open-air kitchens, pizza ovens, outdoor fire-places, professional-quality refresh-ment bars, pergolas and covered pa-vilions to simple but rewarding multi-use fire pits. As a result, families and friends will be dashing in and out the back door well into the winter.

One factor that can easily raise the budget for a three or four season patio is the cost connected with installa-tion, especially where quality, as it should be, is of paramount im-portance. Manufacturers in the con-crete pavingstone and wall systems industry have a solution. Depending on the manufacturer, you can find most of the most wanted patio en-hancements within their portfolios either to be custom built using their hardscape products or complete and ready to install using pre-packaged kits. The kits enable do-it-yourselfers, landscape designers and professional contractors to cost-effectively address

current trends in outdoor living and to turn homeowner “wish lists” into re-ality even within budget constraints.

For example, the simplest of fall fes-tivities can be gathering around a wood burning fire pit roasting marshmallows, cooking frankfurters on a stick and singing songs. Pre-packaged, kits with exact amounts of wallstones are available and like the ones available from Cambridge — manufacturers of Cambridge Paving-stones with ArmorTec®, Cambridge Wallstones and a full line of outdoor living products made of these hard-scape materials. The pits, round or

Ad – Hardwood Mulch



square in coordinated colors and styles, have metal inserts, dual canti-levered grills and optional fire spark screens and galvanized steel covers. With these features, fireside menus can range from hot dogs and burgers to lobsters, chicken pieces, steaks and more.

For fireside chats on a grander level, consider nesting a wood-burning, outdoor fireplace as the focal point in your patio or outdoor room. You can find models in pre-cut, pre-packaged kits as well with decorator inspired, elegant features such as cast stone surrounds and ornamental pieces, pol-ished granite accent tiles, stainless steel pull screens and optional fire-wood boxes — features that rival those found on interior models. in addition to air-cooled chimneys and termination caps.

Decorator-Inspired Features & Professional-Style Inclusions

For Cooking The patio appointments have changed further as freestanding barbeque grills gave way to built-in, multi-purpose cooking stations constructed primari-ly of manufactured wallstones, which are available in various natural colors and rock face textures. Configura-tions and sizes can vary but are com-monly rectangular or L-shaped so that they can be positioned in the most utilitarian position in the overall patio design, noting that the kitchen — whether indoors or outdoors — is usually the focal point of activity with family and friends.

“For example, Cambridge open-air kitchen kits, which are pre-packaged and do not require any cutting of ma-terials, are complete with a stainless steel appliance package that includes a sink, refrigerator and a lighted, 5-burner, 38-inch wide grill, and cabi-net door is at the forefront of our company’s outdoor living product group,” says Cambridge Chair-man/CEO Charles H. Gamarekian. “There is nothing else to buy.” The

kits’ rotisserie, built in thermometer and convenient warming rack allow cooking choices to include whole chickens and roasted meats. The food preparation and serving areas are decorator-inspired, polished granite countertops, which are offered in Black Uba Tuba and Venetian Gold. Artisan-style pizza, roasted vegeta-bles and hot homemade bread are always in season. So, for all-season cooking enthusiasts, an outdoor pizza oven may be the perfect addition to the footprint of a well-appointed patio kitchen. It is also reassuring that from the European-inspired, domed hearth to the professional-quality cooking tools, responsible pizza oven manu-facturers such as Cambridge respect the integrity of the age-old cooking process as well.

A Pergola or Pavilion Can Define Space While Adding

Protection

No backyard gathering spot is truly up-to-date without an open-air pergo-la or pavilion for outdoor dining, re-laxing and entertaining. The populari-ty of these visually pleasing and func-tional structures is broadening in keeping with defining the features of the ideal outdoor setting by today’s standards. Landscape designers and contractors who recognize the magni-tude of this burgeoning trend, are do-ing their homework and are prepared to meet the challenges with the help of, believe it or not, equally savvy hardscape material manufacturers.

Before going any further, let’s clarify the differences between the two ter-minologies. A pergola is typically a

garden structure that consists of pil-lars that support a partially open roof structure, such as latticework or a trellis. The construction, which can vary in size and style, is somewhat similar to an arbor and is often cov-ered in vines or plants. Pergolas are sometimes used as a transition from indoor living space to the outdoors, and commonly cover walkways or paths. Many times, they are built over a patio or seating area to provide lim-ited shade from hot sun. Other varie-ties may have a type of additional sunshade for greater protection.

In contrast, a patio pavilion has open sides but a closed roof for added pro-tection against the elements. A pavil-ion, which is usually associated with a large outdoor covered edifice in parks, spacious public spaces, and vacation resorts, also refers to a free-standing structure sited a short dis-tance from a home to create an archi-tecturally defined space for a host of residential activities.

Support columns (pillars) for pergo-las and pavilions can be anchored into the pavement or set on columns (pedestals) a few feet above ground level. The structures themselves can be custom built or assembled from a kit. If getting involved with building these kinds of structures seems to be a bit daunting, Cambridge, although it may come as a surprise, offers both pergolas and pavilions in pre-packaged kits. Another advantage here is that the structures are intended to be set on any of the company’s wallstone columns (sold separately). For added convenience, a pre-packaged column kit in a variety of color options, that requires no cutting, is also made by Cambridge. Other than providing a sturdy and durable pedestal base, the columns make it easy to blend in Cambridge pavers, wall systems, additional columns and other outdoor living kits containing Cambridge Wallstones. Ask a profes-sional contractor for more infor-mation or visit cambridgepavers.com.



As modern-day lifestyles are chang-ing, we see entire households moving much of their day-to-day activities out-of-doors while at the same time, redefining the backyard patio, as we once knew it. The open-air patio room, covered or not, are now com-plete with lavish cooking, entertain-ing and leisure-time conveniences that everyone can enjoy season after season.

Contact: Charles H. Gamarekian, Chairman / CEO, Cambridge Pavers Inc, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071, Ph 201.933.5000,

Fx 201.933.5532, [email protected]

Tips - Ideas for Using Technology

Rapidly Diagnose Plant Pathogens in Nurseries

Ornamental nursery managers are in a state of continuous scouting during the growing season. When the begin-ning signs or symptoms of a pest or disease are observed, diagnosing the cause is the first step in successfully responding to and solving the prob-lem. This article presents two practi-cal, simple and economical ways your nursery can employ technology to help with the rapid diagnosis of plant disease issues.

Phytophthora Immunostrips Since this June Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Ser-vices (VDACS) nursery inspectors are equipped with “test strips” which able to detect damaging root rot and foliar blight pathogens in the genus

Phytophthora directly in the field.

Positive immunostrip test for Phytophthora, two lines means you

have a positive

These test strips, also known as Im-munostrips, give results within 10 minutes. Once Phytophthora has been detected in the field, laboratory work is still required to determine which species of Phytophthora is present as some species such as P. ramorum are not established in Virginia forests or nurseries and pose a potential eco-nomic and ecological threat if intro-duced. VDACS has a limited supply

Ad – Johnston County Nursery Marketing Assoc.



of Phytophthora Immunostrips avail-able for nurseries to try out for the early detection of Phytophthora in nursery stock. To request a free sam-ple of 25 test strips please email [email protected]. The only requirement is to agree to use the test strips and report back results to your local nursery inspector. They are available while supplies last.

Digital Photography

Taking a picture with a smart phone or digital camera makes sharing

problems of disease issues in the field easier than ever

Taking photos of an unknown prob-lem observed in the field to share with your local nursery inspector by email has the potential to save pre-cious time during the growing season. Using digital photography to aid with plant diagnostics can be useful but there are limitations. Insect pests are often identified by high quality digital images while plant diseases caused by fungi, bacteria or viruses frequent-ly require laboratory tests to be veri-fied. Sending a digital photograph of a potential problem by email to your nursery inspector may result in one of the following outcomes: (1) a tenta-tive diagnosis from the VDACS Plant Pathology Lab (2) a follow up to co-ordinate a site visit to collect a sam-ple, (3) instructions for physical sam-ple submission to the VDACS Plant Pathology Lab (4) any combination of the above based on the specific situation. Site visits and submitting physical samples remains the pre-ferred and most effective method to evaluate pest and disease issues in nurseries. Digital photography is

simply an additional tool to use in cooperation with your state nursery inspector with the potential to save you time and money.

Tips on taking digital photos for plant diagnostics Camera requirements. Digital

cameras have become more user-friendly and affordable in recent years and mobile devices, espe-cially smart phones, are common-ly equipped with high quality digital cameras. Most digital cameras in use today are capable of taking quality images to assist in making an initial diagnostic assessment.

Capture images of the field. Take photos of the field that show the distribution of sympto-matic plants. If there are pockets of symptomatic plants (dieback, wilt, etc), step back and take a photo that shows the distribution of these patches.

Capture images of individual plants. Photograph several indi-vidual plants that show the range and distribution of symptoms present. For example, if leaf spots are present capture the distribu-tion of the spotting at the plant scale. Plants that are wilted, stunted or are showing marginal leaf necrosis are often suffering from a root ailment; in these in-stances it is helpful to pull some plants from the soil and capture a high quality photo of the plant that includes the root system.

Capture up close images of signs and symptoms. You should attempt to capture signs and symptoms of the potential is-sue in your remaining photos. A sign includes the potential cause of a plant problem. Examples of signs include an insect feeding on a plant, fungal growth or fruiting bodies on plant material. For ex-ample, if plants have feeding damage, take up-close photos of

the feeding damage (symptoms) and of any insects associated with the feeding (signs), if present. In-clude size reference such as a rul-er or a coin if possible.

Up-close view of rose with rose rosette virus. High quality digital pictures can

help make accurate field diagnoses for certain diseases.

Use your macro setting for up-close photos. Most digital cam-eras have a macro setting. This is your camera’s close-up mode. It is represented by a universal icon that looks like a small tulip. While in macro setting you can often position your camera within a few inches of fungal fruiting bodies and insects and still take an in focus photo providing you have a steady hand.

Norman L. Dart, State Plant Pathologist

VNLA – Research Gala/Auction Returns

with Skyla Burrell Band The annual Research Foundation

Gala/Auction returns to Tir na Nog Irish Pub Restaurant along with the Skyla Burell Band ac-companied by VNLA member

Jack Campbell on the harmonica.

Tickets will be available in the MANTS pre-registration mailings.

Limited tickets, so register early!

Wednesday, January 9, 2013


VIRGINIA NURSERYMEN’S HORTICULTURAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION, INC.

383 Coal Hollow Rd, Christiansburg, VA 24073-6721 Phone: 540-382-0943 – 800-476-0055 – Fax: 540-382-2716 – Email: [email protected]

Donor Information Form

Donor Company: _________________________________________________________________________

Contact Person: __________________________________________________________________________

Address: ________________________________________________________________________________

City: __________________________ ST: ___ Zip: ____________-__________

Office Phone: (____) _____-____________ Fax: (____) _____-____________

Email: __________________________________________________________________________________

$ ______ Reception/Auction Sponsor$ ______ Direct donation to Research Foundation $ ______ Gift Certificate (list who and where to redeem the certificate, or how to obtain the item, if different from the above contact information)

Item Donation and description: _______________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________

Retail Value: $ ____________________ (approximate)

VNLA member accepting donation: __________________________________________

List additional items separately on the back of this sheet

The donor did not receive any goods or services from the VNA Horticulture Research Foundation, Inc in return for the above listed contribution(s). The Virginia Nurserymen's Horticultural Research Foundation, Inc is a non-profit (501(c)(3) corporation. Over the course of time that this program has been active, we have funded in excess of $200,000 in original research from donations and income from our $550,000 research endowment. We are an active state association with an on-going fundraising program, which should further enhance our ability to support good research in the years to come.

It is the policy of the Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association that no overhead money be taken from funds donated for research projects. It is permissible to deposit these funds into various accounts that have been established for nursery research.

The Virginia Nurserymen’s Horticulture Research Foundation, Inc is a 501(c)(3). A financial statement is available upon written request from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Office of Consumer Affairs, PO Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218-1163.

The VNLA Research Committee at MAN TS After Dark Presents

The 2013 Horticulture Research Gala and Charity Auction

Wednesday, January 9, 2013 6:00 - 10:00pm

Featuring The Skyla Burrell Blues Band

A complete Buffet Dinner is included

Drinks, Cocktails, Beer & Wine (2 drink tickets, cash bar)� Silent Auction (6:00 - 8:30)�

Stay until they close!

$70/person (limited to 200 tickets)Order tickets through MANTS pre-registration

To donate items for the auctions Contact Matt Sawyer at 757-483-1425

Email: [email protected]

Rockin' in Remembrance of Dr. Bonnie Appletonprofessor and researcher at VA Tech HRAREC in Virginia Beach

VNA Horticulture Research Foundation, Inc.

This is the major fund-raiser event for the Foundation. The net proceeds from this event are added to the investment account managed by SunTrust Bank. The income from the investment account is used each year

to fund worthy research projects that could benefit the nursery industry.

Tír Na Nóg Irish Pub(Harborplace, Baltimore)

www.skylaburrell.com

a a


Research - Boxwood blight update

Currently we have initiated a box-wood variety trial investigating the susceptibility of 31 commercial / ex-perimental Buxus varieties to the fungus that causes boxwood blight. Each block consist of six plants of the same variety, and is replicated 4 times throughout our container pad (Figure 1.). Rather than reinvent the wheel, we are following a protocol developed by Belgian researchers that have been studying this disease for over a decade. Two English boxwood container plants are used as 'vector' or 'spreader' plants in the center of each test variety block (Figure 2.). These ‘vector’ plants help spread the fungus under more natural conditions rather than direct inoculation of the test va-rieties. With negative and positive control plots in place, this trial re-quired almost 300 English boxwood containers alone, as well as 24 con-tainers of each test variety. These plants were donated by a boxwood producer in VA.

This trial is being conducted at my research facility at our new container pad/shade structure we built last month solely for boxwood blight tri-als under strict sanitary conditions so that the disease does not leave our research site, which is located on over 200 remote acres and far away from any commercial boxwood production. So far, we got very good infection of our spreader plants, considering the inoculation was done last Wednesday (Figure 3.)! We’ve had good weather conditions for boxwood blight infec-tion, and the trial is running as ex-pected.

In September we will initiate a second field trial that will investigate 24 differ-ent fungicides and their rates for the prevention of boxwood blight. None of this work would have been possible without the financial support of the WV, VA, and NC nursery and land-scape associations, as well as the do-nated plants; in addition, my depart-

ment has picked up the stipend and tuition for our graduate student Miran-da Ganci that is studying boxwood blight for her Masters degree. As we generate data, we will send out more formal reports. Thank you again!

Figure 1.

Figure 2.

Figure 3. By Kelly Ivors, Associate Professor and

Extension Plant Pathologist, North Caro-lina State University, [email protected]

Here is a link to an educational video on YouTube growers can use to educate their staff on box-wood blight. This video was de-veloped to meet the educational requirement for the "Boxwood Blight Cleanliness Program Com-pliance Agreement". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQm63W-qsJM Norman L. Dart, State Plant Pathologist

Events - SNA Announces 2013 Event

Georgia International Convention Center -

August 5 - 7, 2013 Atlanta, Ga., July 1, 2012 – The Southern Nursery Association (SNA) has announced preliminary plans for an event in 2013. Scheduled for Au-gust 5 - 7, 2013, at Atlanta’s Georgia International Convention Center (GICC), this event will combine the SNA Research Conference, the Southern Plant Conference, the SNA State Officer's Conference, and the Annual SNA Business Meeting to deliver one unparalleled event – all under one roof.

The GICC, conveniently located ad-jacent to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and minutes from downtown Atlanta, is Georgia’s newest and second largest convention center featuring more than 400,000 SF of meeting space – all on one lev-el. The ATL SkyTrain, a free light rail train linking the GICC to the air-port, the rental car center and the GICC station, as well as a wide array of affordable nearby hotels (including two new Marriott properties on the GICC campus), and restaurants, cou-pled with excellent transportation connections from across the U.S., will offer participants added conven-ience.

This new regional event will bring together the most forward thinking leaders, researchers, growers, manu-facturers, distributors, landscapers and retailers from across the south-east to share ideas, learn new tech-niques, address key industry issues, and locate new products.

Meister Media/Today's Garden Cen-ter will be the official media sponsor of the event and will offer an educa-tional program geared specifically to retail garden centers. In addition to the educational and networking op-portunities another component of the


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Please contact your local branch to learn more about these opportunities. We are eager to help you with as many of your business challenges as possible!


event will provide industry growers and suppliers an opportunity to pro-mote and showcase their products through various levels of sponsorship including a variety of channels of advertising, product presentations and display space. If you are interested in gaining exposure to a regional audi-ence through sponsorship, contact the SNA office at 678.809.9992.

More details of SNA 2013 will be re-leased in the weeks to come. For further information, contact the Southern Nurse-

ry Association, Inc., PO Box 801454, Acworth, GA 30101, 678.809.9992,

[email protected], or visit the SNA Website at www.sna.org.

News - New Specialty License Plate Support-ing Community Trees

Available for Pre-order

A new specialty license plate is avail-able for pre-order in Virginia. The Virginia Loves Trees license plate features a community skyline en-hanced by trees (with one tree even featuring a swing) in eye-catching blues and greens and is designed to raise awareness of the value of com-munity trees in Virginia.

Plates can be ordered online, or in the mail using forms downloaded from the Virginia Loves Trees website (www.valovestrees.org ).

.

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event will provide industry growers and suppliers an opportunity to pro-mote and showcase their products through various levels of sponsorship including a variety of channels of advertising, product presentations and display space. If you are interested in gaining exposure to a regional audi-ence through sponsorship, contact the SNA office at 678.809.9992.

More details of SNA 2013 will be re-leased in the weeks to come. For further information, contact the Southern Nurse-

ry Association, Inc., PO Box 801454, Acworth, GA 30101, 678.809.9992,

[email protected], or visit the SNA Website at www.sna.org.

News - New Specialty License Plate Support-ing Community Trees

Available for Pre-order

A new specialty license plate is avail-able for pre-order in Virginia. The Virginia Loves Trees license plate features a community skyline en-hanced by trees (with one tree even featuring a swing) in eye-catching blues and greens and is designed to raise awareness of the value of com-munity trees in Virginia.

Plates can be ordered online, or in the mail using forms downloaded from the Virginia Loves Trees website (www.valovestrees.org ).

.

Ad – John Deere Landscapes


VNLA Newsletter Advertising Order Please check the ad size and circle “B&W” or “4-Color”

Size Member Rates Non-Member Rates B&W 4-Color B&W 4-Color

[__] 1/6 page (2.25" x 4.75") $55 (1/2 col. Vertical) $75 [__] 1/3 page (2.25" x 9.75") $75 (1 col. Vertical) $115 [__] 1/4 page (3.5" x 4.75") $80 $135 [__] 1/2 page (4.75" x 7.5") $130 (Horizontal) $565 $175 $750 [__] 1/2 page (3.5" x 9.75") $185 (Vertical) $665 $245 $882 [__] 2/3 page (4.75" x 9.75") $205 (2 col. Vertical) $275 [__] full page (7.5" x 9.75") $235 $795 $325 $1100 [__] Business Card (2" x 3.5") $40 $60 $60 $90 [__] Insert 8”x10.75” single sheet (Call for quote)

Premium locations: inside front cover, inside back cover - Add 10% to above rates

and page on back cover - Add 25% to above rates (call for availability) Please check the issue(s) for your ad (10% discount for 4 pre-paid ads for full-year run)

Publication Issue Copy Deadlines Mail Date (approximate) [__] January/February/March January 15 February 28 [__] April/May/June April 15 May 30 [__] July/August/September July 15 August 30 [__] October/November/December October 15 November 30 [__] Run same ad each issue [__] Rotate Ads [__] New Ad each issue [__] Check here if you want an invoice for four pre-paid consecutive issues (10% discount). Otherwise, we will send you an electronic invoice after the issue is mailed to members.

Contact Person: _________________________________________________ Company Name: ________________________________________________ Mailing Address: ________________________________________________ City: _____________________________ ST____ Zipcode _________-_____ Phone: _____-______-____________ Fax: _____-______-____________ Email: _________________________________________________________ Date: ____/____/______

For Additional Information, Call, Fax or Email: Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association

383 Coal Hollow Road, Christiansburg, VA 24073-6721 800-476-0055 or 540-382-0943 ---- Fax: 540-382-2716 Email: [email protected] www.vnla.org

NEW Quarterly Publication Schedule Effective 4/1/2012

74 July / August / September 2012 VNLA Newsletter74 July/August/September 2012 VNLA Newsletter

September 12, 2012, GRIFFIN PENN-SYLVANIA GROWER EXPO Lancaster Host Resort Lancaster, PA 866.307.8142 [email protected]

September 14-16, 2012, NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY ANNUAL MEETING Wyndham Virginia Crossings, Richmond www.vnps.org

September 21, 2012, WAYNESBORO PLANT HEALTH CARE FOR URBAN TREES WORKSHOP Trees - Fifty Shades of Green & ArborMaster Tree Training Best Western Inn & Conference Center, Waynesboro , VA [email protected] 540-942-6735 www.treesvirginia.org

September 24, 2012, AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR HORTICUL-TURAL SCIENCE Certified Horticulturist Exam [email protected] www.ashs.org

October 1-4, 2012, 8th EASTERN NA-TIVE GRASS SYMPOSIUM Keynote Speaker: Douglas Tallamy Charlottesville, VA www.cpe.vt.edu/engs/index.html

October 1-4, 2012, 8th EASTERN NA-TIVE GRASS SYMPOSIUM Keynote Speaker: Douglas Talla-my; Charlottesville, VA http://www.cpe.vt.edu/engs/index.html

October 10-13, 2012, IPPS - EASTERN REGION CONFERENCE Brandywine Valley, PA at Winter-thur & Longwood Gardens www.ippseastern.org [email protected]

October 14-17, 2012, IPPS - Southern Region, 37th Annual Confer-ence, Dixon Conference Center, Auburn, AL www.ipps-srna.org (803)743-4284

October 24-26, 2012, PLANET GREEN INDUSTRY CONFERENCE Louisville, KY, www.greenindustryconference.org

October 25-28, 2012, HOLLY SOCIE-TY OF AMERICA, COLONI-AL VIRGINIA CHAPTER Fall Meeting, Holiday Inn, I-64 West End, Richmond, VA 804-642-2449 [email protected]

November 2-6, 2012, IRRIGATION SHOW AND EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE, Orlando, FL www.irrigation.org [email protected]

November 8-10, 2012, TCI EXPO 2012 TREE CARE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION Baltimore, MD www.tcia.org

December 4-6 , 2012, MAC-ISA ARBORIST CERTIFICATION COURSES Taught by Joe Murray, 24 ISA CEUs and 24 VNLA VCH CEUs Charlottesville, VA www.macisa.org

December 11-13, 2012, VIRGINIA TECH TURFGRASS SHORT COURSE sponsored by the Virginia Turfgrass Council at the Fredericksburg Expo and Convention Center www.vaturf.org

2013

January 9-11, 2013, MANTS Baltimore Convention Center Contact: 800-431-0066 [email protected] www.mants.com

January 9, 2013, VNA HORTICUL-TURE RESEARCH FOUNDA-TION RESEARCH GA-LA/AUCTION Order tickets with MANTS regis-tration; for info: 800-476-0055 [email protected]

January 10, 2013, VNLA ANNUAL BREAKFAST MEETING Sheraton Inner Harbor Hotel Contact: [email protected] 800-476-0055

January 10, 2013, VIRGINIA AGRIBUSINESS COUNCIL APPRECIATION BANQUET Arthur Ashe Center, Richmond, VA 804/643-3555

January 14-16, 2013, CENTS Trade Show, Columbus, OH www.onla.org

January 17-18, 2013, GREEN & GROWIN' SHOW Greensboro, NC www.ncnla.com

January 17-18, 2013, GULF STATES HORTICULTURAL EXPO Mobile, AL www.gshe.org [email protected]

January 22-23, 2013, NEW JERSEY PLANTS TRADE SHOW-www.njplantshow.com

January 25-27, 2013, VIRGINIA FLOWER & GARDEN EXPO "Where Joy Begins" at the Virgin-ia Beach Convention Center www.vafgs.org, 757-718-6807

January 28-31, 2013, VIRGINIA TURFGRASS COUNCIL CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW, Fredericksburg Convention Cen-ter, www.turfconference.org

February 4-7, 2013, MID-ATLANTIC HORTICULTURE SHORT COURSE (MAHSC), at the Marriott at City Center in Newport News www.mahsc.org

For a Current Calendar of all

Green Industry Events, go: http://virginiagreen.org/events.htm

Upcoming Events

Licensed Grower of Encore Azalea®

National Brands, Homegrown Diversity

www.pendernursery.com • 1.800.942.1648 • FAX 919.773.0904 • [email protected]

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Whether you need to purchase real estate, build new houses, buy more equipment or need a revolving line of credit for plant stock, we have the financing you need.

Every business has growing pains. Give us a call and we’ll be sure your financing isn’t one of those.

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Phone: 434-842-8733 Fax: 434-842-3823

email: [email protected]

Prsrt. StdU.S. Postage

PAIDBlacksburg, VAPermit No. 107

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