Orius incidiosus plays a vital role in controlling pests and is compatible with other specialist and generalist predators. | 22
DR. MOHYUDDIN
8 Business Issues 10 What you should know about working in the U.S.
Technology Issues 12 New vertical system growing its first commercial crops. Retail Trends 20 Markets still strong for cut flowers.
Flowers 34 Grasses offer great new alternatives.
BY MELHEM SAWAYA
One database lists 86 such products registered in Canada.
BY GARY JONES
Confidence In The Industry
Anecdotally, 2015 was a good year for most Canadian greenhouse growers. That’s clearly the impression you get from talking to growers and suppliers at conferences and other industry events.
This year’s Greenhouse Canada Grower Survey certainly reflects that view.
The survey is far from comprehensive, but still assesses some of the key factors in running a greenhouse operation today. Our results are definitely weighted towards smaller growers (some 44 per cent were less than 50,000 square feet), and has an Ontario bias in the responses (55 per cent of respondents were from the province).
On the financial side, it was encouraging to see 26 per cent of growers had double-digit 2015 sales increases over 2014, while 19 per cent had gains of between five and 10 per cent.
A key indicator of industry confidence is on the question of pricing levels for this year. Most respondents (70 per cent) were
a few sleepless nights, and 2015 was apparently no exception, with electricity rates and labour costs leading the way, followed by heating and plant material expenses.
Increased biocontrol usage is a continuing trend, with 44 per cent of growers employing more predators last year compared to 2014. Thirtyfour per cent said their year-overyear usage was about the same in the two years. The extensive use of biologicals reflects an industry that’s been pioneering with their usage for many years – certainly one of the most advanced anywhere in the world. That’s a credit to the leading edge research that’s been done for many years in Canada, and the work of extension specialists and suppliers determined to pass along the latest news. And of course, the grower community has been especially receptive to the concept.
On the question of anticipated business threats, growers are especially nervous about prices, energy costs and taxes/regulations – three elements they don’t have
Premium products, as we noted earlier, always find a market.
looking at price hikes. With inflation to contend with, it’s important to value products accordingly, and consumers rarely have a problem paying for quality. Greenhouse produce and plants have great value, and deserve such attention at retail.
Another key indicator is sales forecasting, and again growers are optimistic. The survey found about 47 per cent will be shipping more this year compared to 2014. There are some projections of sales declines, and we would suspect that reflects new competitors in local markets.
Input costs can give growers
much control over. Electricity costs will become an even larger worry in future, as growers work to extend the season with supplemental lighting to tap into new markets.
Change is the one constant in the greenhouse industry, and growers have to anticipate trends. With the right timing, challenges become opportunities.
As our grower surveys have shown, the past few years have been relatively good for most growers, with sales growth and improved margins.
Premium products, as we noted earlier, always find a market.
Komet
For more information please contact:
Freek Knol
Regional Business Manager, Greenhouse
T +1 303-319-0057
E f.knol@enzazaden.com
Dan Skinner
Komet is a great fit for the spring-summer crops in Ontario and Quebec. Enza Zaden is dedicated to develop cucumber varieties that suit the unique South East Canada weather conditions. Spring temperature can rapidly rise; light can be intense; but not always. Creating the need for a highly adaptable & heat tolerant variety. Compact and selective Komet keeps on producing top quality fruits. Komet can be grown in substrate crops; under plastic & glass covers. It is one of the most complete variety in terms of yield, plant type, fruit quality and resistance.
• Wide resistance package
• Powerful root system
• Strong growing points
• Heat tolerance
• Superb fruit shape
• Fruit size: 13-14 in (32-35 cm)
Resistances: HR: Cca/Ccu | IR: CMV/CVYV/Px
Product Specialist, Greenhouse T +1 519-329-6657
E d.skinner@enzazaden.com
Kees Rodenburg
Sr Sales Representative, Greenhouse T +1 520-686-1432
E k.rodenburg@enzazaden.com
Phil Stoffyn
Sr Sales Representaive, Greenhouse T +1 226-229-9679
E p.stoffyn@enzazaden.com
Komet is also available in certified organic form from our organic division, Vitalis Organic Seeds.
OGVG Stepping Up U.S. Marketing Efforts
The Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG) will spend up to $172,000 in Growing Forward 2 funding over the next two years to implement a retail educational merchandising program for the U.S. market.
OGVG general manager Rick Seguin said the association welcomed the support of both the federal and provincial governments with this very important initiative.
“The demands for retail education have multiplied and OGVG is committed to the development of an educational program for the U.S. marketplace. With rapidly changing supply chain demands, OGVG’s education program will offer additional product knowledge and allow OGVG to expand on established and create new relationships to increase the overall demand of Ontario greenhouse vegetables.”
‘ENERGY’ FOCUS OF CGC’16 KEYNOTE TALK
The head of the greenhouse technology scientific research team at Wageningen UR will be this year’s keynote speaker at the Canadian Greenhouse Conference. Dr. Silke Hemming will discuss “The Future of the Greenhouse Industry – From Energy Consumer to Energy Supplier” in the keynote presentation on Oct. 5. In a second presentation she will talk about “Light transmission and Distribution in
BY THE NUMBERS
BILLION
UAV spending worldwide is expected to double over the next 10 years, growing from $5.9B to $11.3B annually. (Canadian Centre for Unmanned Vehicle Systems)
Vegetable Greenhouses.”
The Canadian Greenhouse Conference (CGC’16) will be held at the Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls from Oct. 5-6. A pre-conference bus tour is on Oct. 4.
Hemming studied horticultural sciences at the University of Hanover, Germany. She earned her PhD in 1998, completing a thesis with the title “The Effect of Photoselective Greenhouse Covering
Materials on Ornamental Plants.”
She has worked at Wageningen UR since 1999 at different institutes and in different positions. She has led the scientific greenhouse technology research team within since 2007. Hemming is a well-known expert on the field of novel greenhouse design concepts and modern greenhouse coverings. She is leader of the ISHS
(International Society of Horticultural Sciences) scientific working group “Light in Horticulture.”
CGC’16 is one of North America’s largest greenhouse shows, offering two full days of informative sessions and a large trade show with more than 300 booths. Sessions are available for vegetable and flower growers, and for garden centre operators.
Visit canadiangreen houseconference.com for more information.
9% increase in Canadian farmgate value of greenhouse tomatoes, 2010-14.
90% of fresh fruit and vegetable sales in Canada by CPMA members. $3.5 BILLION in organic sales in Canada (2014).
Versatile trailing lobelia series
‘Suntory Lobelia Trailing White’ is starring in two combinations this season alongside Beedance bidens. ‘Bee Fabulous’ contains these two varieties plus petunia ‘Surfinia Deep Red.’ ‘Bee-utiful!’ contains verbena ‘Temari Trailing Blue.’ Both are available as unrooted combination kits.
Moody Blues of Veronica
The Moody Blues series of Veronica from Emerald Coast Growers is a group of compact, long-blooming hybrids sure to give nobody the blues. Featured are vivid flower spikes over long,
narrow creased leaves. The series is hardy in Zones 6-9, and grows to 12-14” in height. Moody Blues is available in four colours: Dark Blue, Light Blue, Mauve and Pink. www.ecgrowers.com
Mixis™ ‘Reese’ a tribute
New this year in Danziger’s Mixis line of combos is a special design created as a tribute to Danziger’s Reese Kiikka, who was a fixture in the industry for many years and passed away tragically in 2014. ‘Mixis Reese’ features a
Kudos series of Agastache
Emerald Coast Growers presents the Kudos series of Agastache. Charming, airy blooms rise over low, tight foliage mounds. They make a great container filler or a lovely mass garden planting. Pictured is
‘Ambrosia,’ whose pale orange and rosy-pink spikes with creamy coconut highlights make a constantly changing display that harmonizes with any colour. www.ecgrowers.com
Suntory’s heat-tolerant trailing lobelia series for hanging baskets debuts to complement its more compact series for pots and beds. Benefits include superior branching habit to produce more flowers, plus an extended flowering period through the summer.
www.suntorycollection.com
Dahlightful™ Georgia Peach Dahlia
A backdrop of dramatic deep green foliage makes the apricot yellow, semidouble flowers of this beauty look especially “Dahlightful”! Strong stems, good disease resistance, and a season-long bloom time will make this new series of mediumsized dahlias popular with growers and gardeners alike. It grows 20-30” tall and has a 20-24” spread. It excels in full sun to part sun conditions. www.provenwinners.com
Supertunia® Honey
bright combination of Bacopa ‘Gulliver Blue,’ Calibrachoa ‘Noa Violet’ and Lobularia ‘Lavender Stream.’ Mixis offer growers and gardeners the utmost flexibility with a wide range of products.
www.danziger.co.il
‘Supertunia Honey’ features an incredible ever-changing array of yellow, orange, salmon and pink blossoms on mounding, wellbranched plants. Its vigour and disease resistance match that of other Supertunias and it exhibits good heat and cold tolerance. Supertunias need high light levels in production and are suitable for 4” to one-gallon pots, hanging baskets, upright containers, and landscapes. www.provenwinners.com
…and more New Varieties
For more New Varieties, visit the “Marketplace” section at greenhousecanada.com. We’re always looking for New Varieties (100 to 125 words with high resolution photo) from breeders; please send to greenhouse@annexweb.com.
Trading or Investing in U.S.
Immigration Advice to Help Grow Your Greenhouse Business in U.S.
The recent influx of Canadian greenhouse businesses expanding south of the border should remind employers of the importance of obtaining and maintaining proper immigration status for Canadian employees to work and live in the U.S.
While various visa categories are available to those growing businesses, such as the Intra-
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Company Transfer (L), NAFTA Professional (TN) and Specialty Occupation (H-1B), more streamlined options include the Treaty Trader (E-1) and Treaty Investor (E-2) visas created to facilitate trade and encourage investment in the U.S.
E-1: The Treaty Trader visa should be explored especially if the company is already engaging in business in the U.S.
This visa requires conducting “substantial and principal” trade with the U.S. Key considerations are the frequency and continuity of the trade relationship. In practice, $50,000 has been found sufficient to meet the minimum trade threshold. Additionally, at least 50 per cent of a qualifying company’s international trade must be between the U.S. and Canada.
More than just the movement of tangible goods, “trade” encompasses technology, consulting, transportation and other services; an E-1 has been a successful option for businesses ranging
from commercial growers and retailers, garden centres, and food producers to landscape designers, greenhouse equipment and technology suppliers.
E-2: The E-2 Treaty Investor visa requires that a “substantial” amount of capital be invested in the U.S. This is a good option to consider especially when opening a new office. An amount of $50,000 generally meets the “substantial” investment threshold. Investment is not solely limited to cash; leases, equipment, inventory or shareholders’ loans may also qualify.
To apply for either E-1 or E-2 status, the majority owner of the business must have the nationality of a treaty country. Currently, there are approximately 77 countries that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the U.S. Once the company is registered under E status, its qualified employees (e.g., “Managers,” “Executives” or “Essential Employees”) and their dependents can apply for the same status.
The E-visa has certain advantages when compared to alternative options.
Significantly, the E-1 does not require U.S. presence nor a need to maintain an actual office.
The E-2, however, requires physical presence. In addition to an already streamlined application, as of March 1, the E-visa registration process has been revamped to be even more accessible.
All company registrations for the E-1 and E-2 are now adjudicated at the U.S. Consulate General in Toronto with an in-person interview that typically lasts about 15 minutes. Qualifying employees and their dependents can apply either at the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa or one of the U.S. Consulates General in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal.
There is minimal visa processing time since a decision is typically reached during the in-person interview. Once approved, the E-visa is issued for up to five years and it may be renewed indefinitely as long as the company continues to meet the minimum requirements.
Mengyi (Melle) Xu is an immigration attorney at Barclay Damon, a 275-lawyer firm across 11 offices based in upstate New York. After graduating from the University of Toronto, Xu was awarded a Juris Doctor degree from SUNY Buffalo Law School and was admitted to practice in New York. www.BarclayDamon.com
Mengyi (Melle) Xu, an immigration attorney at Barclay Damon in upstate New York.
ENGAGEAGRO
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TIMOREX GOLD provides both organic and conventional growers with more targeted and effective pest management options.
Containerized Aeroponics
Patented Vertical System is Growing its First Commercial Crops
GrowTrucks, LLC, the container farm division of Indoor Farms of America – maker of unique vertical aeroponic indoor farm equipment – has begun sales of its container farm using the latest patented technology in indoor agriculture.
It has a growing capacity the company says eclipses any other product in the marketplace.
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GrowTrucks container farm equipment uses the latest in farm management controls.
“By combining a superior aeroponic vertical growing platform with the latest components to operate the farm, we have delivered on our mission to bring to agriculture a truly economically viable solution, wrapped in a container,” says David Martin, CEO of Indoor Farms of America.
The GrowTrucks unique, reliable and patented vertical aeroponic platform can efficiently grow up to 8,450 healthy plants with excellent flavour due to its system for mineral uptake, and it all takes place within a 320-square-foot container. It is designed to operate year-round in any climate.
“If you want fresh strawberries, chili peppers, or just about any leafy green, and you are located in the coldest climate, in a remote location, you can do just that. It makes great sense as a business, and is easy to operate, even if you don’t have a green thumb,” says company president Ron Evans.
The GrowTrucks container farm equipment
uses the latest in farm management controls, and is easy to operate and maintain. The first unit, built two years ago in R&D, underwent hundreds of hours of design, being put through rigorous testing to ensure long-term reliability of the equipment.
“If you can think of a place that has a need for really fresh, accessible produce, we have the platform that not only makes it possible, but does it on a “commercial scale” basis so there is real ROI to the producer,” Martin says.
The Farmers Market model is based on a large box truck that can literally be driven to market with the fresh, naturally grown produce harvested at the point of sale.
The technology was displayed at this year’s World Ag Expo – the largest agriculture show in the world – in California. Considerable interest was shown by attendees.
Traditional field producers can expand their operations by integrating indoor growing operations to serve local markets, Martin says, an innovative opportunity to add to their bottom line.
FACT SHEET ON INDOOR FARMS OF AMERICA
• Patented vertical aeroponic crop growing equipment is a major advancement for indoor and greenhouse agriculture.
• Leafy greens, peppers and strawberries, among other fruits and vegetables, can be grown at up to 40 plants per square foot.
• United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) food grade equipment needs only eight feet of ceiling height to operate.
• Non GMO, all-natural protocols with no pesticides or other chemicals are used in the process.
• Uses up to 95 per cent less water than soil farming.
• Amazing taste due to natural mineral infusion system.
• Enhances food safety and food security – fewer hands touch the food.
• Fully sustainable – no waste generated in the growing process.
• Can solve “food desert” crisis anywhere.
For more information, check the company website at IndoorFarmsAmerica.com.
Sales, Profits Are On the Rise
Fifth annual Greenhouse Canada Grower Survey finds respondents to be quite enthused and positive this year after very good results for many growers in 2015.
BY DAVE HARRISON
There were no big surprises in our fifth annual Grower Survey as grower confidence again remains high, a sentiment echoed in the four previous reports.
Profit margins, for one, have improved over the past three years, and the majority of growers are predicting higher sales volumes this year compared to 2015’s survey.
As a quick overview, the majority of our respondents were from Ontario (55 per cent), followed by British Columbia (16 per cent), Alberta (12 per cent) and Quebec (five per cent). Saskatchewan, Manitoba and New Brunswick were also represented.
Note: all percentages in this report are rounded off; totals won’t always number to 100.
And as for type of operation, the survey included wholesale growers (36 per cent), retail growers (27), vegetables (27), and young plants (10).
A little less than half our respondents are
looking to see more products heading out the door this year. Twenty-four per cent are projecting sales increases of up to 10 per cent, while 23 per cent are counting on increases of more than that. Fortyseven per cent, however, see a flat sales year, while about five per cent are fearing declines.
Of those in the survey, 73 per cent said they didn’t expand last year. Twelve per cent added less than 10,000 square feet, while six per cent grew by between 10,000 and 25,000 square feet. At the other end of the spectrum, six per cent added more than 100,000 square feet in 2015.
The survey found few growers with plans to expand this year, including 80 per cent who were happy with the status quo. However, 12 per cent will add up to 10,000 square feet, and six per cent have plans to expand by more than 100,000 square feet.
Growers were investing in new equipment last year. About 18 per cent invested between $25,001
ABOVE Melvin and Joanna Steckle are this year’s Grower Survey iPad Mini draw winners. The family has a small garden centre operation as part of their diversified farming operation.
Draw prize winners
Our thanks to all respondents for taking the time to complete the survey. Hopefully, it’s a fun exercise.
We know it put a smile on the faces of the Steckle family of southwestern Ontario! Melvin and Joanna Steckle are this year’s draw winners for an iPad Mini. They’re the proud owners of Steckles’ Produce & Flowers of Harriston, situated about halfway between Guelph and Owen Sound.
The Steckles started farming as newlyweds in 1992. Crops grown on the farm provide feed for the 500 Angus cattle in their feedlot. They work about 500 acres of hay, wheat, corn and sometimes beans.
Their kitchen garden and flower hobby has grown into a small business that nicely complements the main farm operation.
and $100,000, and 11 per cent set up more than $100,000 in new equipment. Fifteen per cent bought between $1,000 and $5,000 of new equipment.
Looking ahead to this year, only about a third said they had no plans to upgrade; however the remainder have their chequebooks at the ready. The spending forecasts include: less than $1,000 (nine per cent); $1,000 to $5,000 (18); $5,001 to $10,000 (6); $10,001 to $25,000 (11); $25,001 to $100,000 (14); and more than $100,000 (9).
BUSINESS THREATS
Again this year, we asked growers to assess the following issues and whether they will be affected: currency fluctuations, labour shortages, energy costs, markets/prices, imported competition; and taxes/regulations.
Currency fluctuations: This issue usually strikes a nerve. About 46 per cent say they are “somewhat” concerned, while 36 per cent are “very” concerned.
Labour shortages: Probably as a testimonial to the Foreign Agricultural Resource Management Service (FARMS), this is not a big concern; in fact, half of our respondents says it’s “not at all” a worry for them. Of course, on the other side of the coin, the other half say it’s a problem –“somewhat” (31 per cent) and “very” (19).
Energy costs: Whew! This issue always gets growers on edge. On the one hand, natural gas prices are low and are projected to remain low for the next few years. However, electricity prices are
The retail greenhouse keeps the family busy during the spring, growing and selling bedding plants and hanging baskets. The spring selling season merges into the summer produce season, as they handle about seven acres of market gardening produce.
Their first greenhouse was built 10 years ago, to replace a small hobby house. It’s since tripled in size to about 8,600 square feet. In addition to bedding plants and hanging baskets for retail sales, they also grow their own plugs for their market garden crops.
“The greenhouse alone is only a small part of a busy place, but it does keep us and our four children out of trouble most of the time,” Joanna says.
“My gardening hobby is really what started all this, and now it is a part of what makes the farm viable.”
rising, particularly in Ontario, home to the majority of our respondents. Some 58 per cent say they are “somewhat” concerned, while 28 per cent are “very” concerned.
Markets/prices: This is another issue that keeps many growers up at night. Fifty-nine per cent say they are “somewhat” concerned, and a further 24 per cent are “very” concerned.
Imported competition: Not a big issue for most growers – “not at all” (39 per cent), “somewhat” (37), and “very” (24).
Taxes/regulations: This is probably the most contentious issue for growers, especially red tape and taxation level. About 54 per cent are “somewhat” concerned, and 36 per cent are “very” concerned.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
We listed four business opportunities in the survey: non-traditional products; “buy local” movement; organic/green products; and export markets. And here are the responses as to levels of interest.
Non-traditional markets: “somewhat” (55 per cent); “not at all” (24); “very” (22).
Buy local movement: “somewhat” (55); “not at all” (16); “very” (29).
Organic/green products: “somewhat” (44); “not at all” (28); “very” (28).
Export markets: “somewhat” (33); “not at all” (51); “very” (16).
More results on pages 16 and 18.
Visit greenhousecanada.com to view the complete survey report.
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2016 GREENHOUSE grower survey
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Markets Still Strong For Cut Flowers
It’s hard to find another segment of the horticultural industry that has diversified as much as cut flower growers have. The varieties of cuts now available are truly astounding and each season brings with it more new offerings ranging from forsythia, spring tree blossoms of peaches, nectarines, ornamental flowering cherries and quince, to new summer colours of dahlias, asters and celosias. Fall introduces ever-increasing numbers of ornamental kales, multi-hued sunflowers and dried grasses and statice, while the Christmas season offers new coniferous greens, new berry stems and the amazing selection of male skimmia buds, adding a fresh look to indoor and outdoor winter arrangements and bouquets.
Without a doubt, the fastest growing area is cut mixed bouquets in the $20, $30 and $40 price range. The diversity of new vibrant colours, new varieties and amazing fillers keeps floral combinations fresh and exciting. The “same old” died a painful death many years ago and today’s fresh, invigorating new looks are even attracting millennials.
Speaking with Doug Smart, currently with Cambridge and formerly for many years with United Flower Growers in Burnaby, B.C., it was interesting to get his perspective on the current retail, box and supermarket trends. Beginning with spring flowers,
through their quite lengthy season. Their versatility in so many situations and their incredibly long lasting nature are huge bonuses. Green orchids are, by far, the most popular not only because green is the “in” colour but also because they work so well with many other colours. Smaller mini cymbidiums allow more opportunity for blending into arrangements and mixed bouquets and again, the greens are the most popular.
Among the younger female demographic, gerbera daisies have not only a strong seasonal holiday appeal but they have also become the everyday “go-to” flower. Gerbs make any bouquet special and their growing colour range allows them to shine as the star in any floral situation. The colours in demand are pinks, peaches, oranges, purples and bicolour blends. The primary colours, like red and yellow, have remained stable.
Germinis are experiencing good growth because of their smaller size, making them a little more versatile for floral design and also for satisfying the new trend of selling “by the bunch.”
An increasing demand for the old-fashioned, highly perfumed roses.
tulips are seeing growth in all colours. They seem to have increasing appeal in all demographics. Their versatility, reasonable price and long availability have made them the “go-to” winter and spring flower. Daffodils, however, remain relatively static due to limited availability and a shorter season. The same is true of other spring season flowers like anemones and ranunculus. Freesias, too, have remained somewhat stable.
The demand for lilies tends to go up and down with the seasons but overall they have remained relatively stable. Their perfume is both an asset and possibly a little bit of a liability with the ever-increasing sensitivity to fragrance and allergic reactions. Asiatics continue to be a staple in mixed bouquets, and the fact they last so long and have such a wide colour range are huge pluses.
Cymbidium orchid stems too have been stable
Carnations are making a steady comeback, mainly in traditional colours of reds, whites and pinks. Bicolours remain reliable, and muted tones, like soft yellows, are strong. They always present as good value and their gentle perfume is an asset. Roses are quite steady and if there is growth, it’s in the traditional reds. Whites remain strong but there is a drop off in other colours. There is an increasing demand for the old-fashioned, highly perfumed roses, like the David Austin and Renaissance varieties, particularly for wedding flowers and it seems price is no object for these huge antique gems.
Chrysanthemums have remained strong, especially in traditional colours. The growth has been in the greens, especially the variety ‘Green Lizard.’
The cut flower industry has nowhere to go but up. The tremendous diversity, along with new trends in colour and style, are helping them keep on the edge. For millennials in particular, the competitive pricing, ease of care and added value they bring are all positives to build on for the future.
Brian Minter is co-owner of Minter Country Gardens in Chilliwack, B.C.
Whether you’re working in the fields or in the yard, we do it all. How? We pack a lot of power into a sleek, well-designed package. Our B01 series tractors come with a Kubota diesel engine available from 23-26 HP, so you get improved performance and rugged durability.
‘Flower Bug’ Effective Generalist Predator
Orius insidiosus plays a vital role in controlling pests on greenhouse crops as well as home gardens. It’s also compatible with other specialist and generalist predators.
BY DR. ABIDA NASREEN
Orius insidiosus, also called Flower Bug or Minute Pirate Bug, is a local species of the United States and Canada. Most North American farmers are well aware of the importance and effectiveness of this species. Orius plays a vital role in controlling insect and mite pests on greenhouse crops as well as home gardens. Moreover, this bug is well known for its compatibility to work with other specialist and generalist predators.
Both sexes of Orius appear very similar (shiny black, brown and white), but adult males are slightly smaller than females and are about a tenth of an inch (2 mm) in length. The Orius are yellow at younger stages and become dark brown at later stages.
All life stages of Orius feed on insects and
mite pests. It also appears to feed on plant juices to some extent; however, it is mainly fond of juices of various insects such as thrips, spider mites, aphids, whiteflies and moth eggs and small larvae. To feed, the Orius spears its prey with a long needle-like beak and sucks out the body juice of its victim.
In one day both immature and adult bugs can consume 30-plus spider mites, 12-plus thrips, 10-plus aphids, or 15-plus whiteflies.
Even though Orius has been observed to leave its prey before having completely consumed it to attack another one, the first prey is incapacitated and so more prey may be destroyed than those needed to fulfill its basic nutritional requirements.
Orius insidiosus is a diapausing insect, becoming inactive during the shorter and cooler
TOP Orius insidiosus feeding on adult thrips. ABOVE Orius insidiosus feeding on thrips larvae.
PHOTOS COURTESY
DR. ABIDA NASREEN
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days of the year. This behaviour makes its use restricted to about MarchSeptember/October. The diapause can be tricked by putting 60-Watt blue spectrum white fluorescent lights at 60-foot radii and by maintaining the temperature at 18 C to 20 C. If its specific temperature requirements are not fulfilled, Orius introductions during the late fall or winter will not be effective.
The new trend of using supplemental lighting and maintaining warm temperatures may aid in the establishment of this predatory species during the winter months.
Orius insidiosus is usually sold as adults (500 to 1,000) in small plastic bottles with a carrier like buckwheat hulls, which allow the Orius individuals to avoid each other and, thus, minimizes cannibalism while in transit. Furthermore, this predator can be easily distributed manually throughout the crop and spread faster than any other beneficial insect because of its high mobility and good searching ability.
The recommended introduction rates of Orius are usually 2 to 5/m2 depending
on the crop and pest pressure.
Ornamental peppers are used by some growers as banker plants, providing food (pollen) and oviposition sites to build up populations of Orius in the absence of thrips.
Also, there has been an increasing number of studies evaluating the use of supplemental food sources for the Orius These include loose applications of pollen, flour moth (Ephestia) eggs, and cysts of brine shrimp (Artemia). These alternative food sources are used to assist in the establishment of Orius in the absence of thrips, and more interestingly, they have shown considerable potential for commercial use.
Supply of fresh, not stored, and locally produced beneficial insects can change the effectiveness of integrated pest management (IPM) especially for protected crops. Farmers must ask for the locally produced fresh and high quality predators to manage insects and mite pests on their crops. Also, diversified cropping systems, use of microbial insecticides, and use of monitoring tools to minimize insecticide applications are all practical
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Orius insidiosus feeding on spider mites.
recommendations to maximize the natural biological control from Orius.
Dr. Abida Nasreen is director of research and development with GrowLiv Ltd. www.growliv.com.
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Understanding The Language of Plants
Growers should pay closer attention to commonly grown bedding plants, and learn how to interpret their calls for attention when things are going wrong.
BY DR. MOHYUDDIN MIRZA
Do plants have a language that we can learn to understand?
Of course only human beings are bestowed with the power to speak through languages, but plants have their own language. They cannot speak in English or other languages but they have a powerful way to express their feelings, deficiencies and stresses and strains. It is our job and duty to understand their stresses and strains so that we can help them stay healthy.
We all know that if plant problems are not diagnosed in time and proper remedial actions not taken, then economic losses can occur. In this first part of a series, I will show you how to understand the language of bedding plants.
Plants are very smart and have developed clever mechanisms to express themselves. The simple fact they carry out a number of functions to
manufacture food is remarkable and they depend on growers to look after their needs.
EXAMPLE ONE: WHAT ARE THESE PLANTS TRYING TO TELL US
I took these pictures from a plug tray. One is from the middle of the tray (1A) and the other (1B) from the edge of the tray. What the plant is trying to tell us is, “I am sending roots where water is most available, where the temperature is not too cold, and where I have good oxygen available. My top growth is going to be affected the way you provide water to me. I like the conditions you are providing as shown in the picture on the left side.
“Did you know that I will make myself more vegetative when I am producing good roots all over and in the growing medium, and I will become more generative when you are keeping
PHOTOS COURTESY
DR.MOHYUDDIN MIRZA
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my growing medium drier. If you keep watering me with lesser amounts, then I will start producing flowers quicker than nearby plants.”
EXAMPLE #2: WHAT ARE THESE DRACAENAS TRYING TO COMMUNICATE?
In their own language, these plants are trying to communicate their feelings of frustration with the grower’s management practices. “You have choked my breath off by allowing this dark green algae to develop.
“In addition, these fungus gnats and shore flies are irritating me. They are here in droves and I trusted that you will look after my needs fully.
“But now you can clearly see my food manufacturing leaves are turning yellow and chlorotic and there are some dead spots on my skin. You are not able to sell me like this.
“You have been working with me since July of last year but now you are not even looking at me!”
So this is the kind of language these dracaena plants are trying to use. Due to this algae, oxygen supplies to the roots have been cut off and iron deficiency has occurred. Foliar feeding with iron chelate or sulphate alone is not going to help. My advice is to transplant these plants in bigger containers and start using products to control the algae.
EXAMPLE #3: DEALING WITH COLD TEMPERATURES
“I am a geranium plant. I was doing pretty well in this greenhouse. My owner knows me very well. He has grown members of my family for several years and I was always happy that he looked after me diligently. But one day he decided to move me from my house to a different house.
“Within few hours of this move I started shivering.
“I asked my cells what was going on. They told me they were in a shock because this new house was several degrees cooler than the house they grew up in as a baby.
“I don’t know why the water was so cold. I tried my best not to go into panic but could not control my feelings of shivering.
“Finally my cells sacrificed a few of their own to save other cells. The cells on the outer side decided to make this sacrifice. The ultimate price these cells paid is that they were cut off to save my young leaves.”
That is what the plant told me. So avoid sudden fluctuations in temperature when plants are moved from one greenhouse to another.
EXAMPLE #4: AVOIDING IRON DEFICIENCY
“I am a petunia plant and there are many of us in this tray. We were coming along pretty well and the grower was looking after our needs for watering, fertilizing, temperature control and other things.
“Slowly, I was feeling uncomfortable that something wrong was going on with my leaves.
“My cells reported that we were not able to make enough food needed to serve the needs of my roots, shoots and flowers, but I was not able to communicate that to the assistant grower who frequently came around to check on me.
“The grower did not know that I am an iron inefficient plant. It has been mentioned in workshops that I am a type of plant that changes the pH of my rootzone because I grow so fast. I need to get more OH ions out of my system so that I can absorb certain nutrients. You remember all that business about cations
and anions!
“My grower should have checked the pH and I could have provided some clues to as what is going to happen soon. Unfortunately, it did not happen and now I am here stuck with iron deficiency, and iron is part of my food manufacturing business.
“This means I cannot make food efficiently and thus my plant health is being affected because the grower is not paying enough attention to me. I am worried that sales time is approaching and I will get a bad report as an ironinefficient plant.”
I have found that if petunias have reached that stage of iron chlorosis, then foliar feeding alone is not going to help. Growers should focus on correcting the pH levels.
I am also finding that most commercial fertilizers have a wide range of iron added in their mixes and they report the contents at 200 ppm of nitrogen. Many times we have to feed less than 200 ppm of nitrogen to take into consideration nitrogen contribution from calcium nitrate.
We cannot understand the language of every bedding plant because we grow several hundred types of them and so such problems will keep appearing. My point is to create groups of plants, iron efficient and iron inefficient ones, and know where to focus. Frequently look at the roots. Make pH and EC observations at the first signs of anything unusable. Understand the role of temperature in plant growth and other factors.
Dr. Mohyuddin Mirza is an industry consultant. He can be contacted at drmirzaconsultants@gmail.com.
MORE CROP CULTURE STORIES ARE IN THE “INPUTS” SECTION AT GREENHOUSECANADA.COM
WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS FOR THEIR TIME AND SUPPORT
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The Latest in Whitefly Control
Next month’s Greenhouse Canada Grower Day is welcoming leading researchers and crop specialists to help you tackle one of the industry’s biggest challenges.
BY MELHEM SAWAYA
Whitefly is proving to be one of the most difficult pests to control, mainly due to the lack of effective registered chemicals that can eradicate silverleaf whitefly. It is also due to the unwillingness of biological suppliers to bring Eretmocerus mundus back to the market – the only predator proven to be effective against this pest.
Growers are in limbo, dealing with the consumer who demands a 100 per cent pestfree product, a lack of biological predators, and the government that takes forever to register the new effective chemicals. The latter discourages chemical companies from going through the pains of registering chemicals here that are already registered in the U.S.
With all these roadblocks, growers still manage to deliver crops that satisfy the buyers
but at a much higher cost, which translates into a lower profit margin. With this in mind, Greenhouse Canada – with advice from the horticulture industry – has decided to focus its annual Grower Day (June 15 in St. Catharines, Ont.) on whitefly issues. At the end of the program, every grower will have many new choices on how best to tackle the whitefly problem.
Grower Day speakers include a mix of researchers, extension specialists and suppliers willing to share their expertise and listen to grower feedback to know how to proceed in the future. If you have the same issues as many growers have with whiteflies, or you have any input as to what is needed, then this is a day that you do not want to miss.
Grower Day will conclude with a panel
ABOVE Whitefly affects many crops. INSET Dr. Michael Brownbridge
discussion featuring the day’s presenters. This is where concerns are voiced and questions answered to help growers deal with this major pest challenge.
Here is an overview of the program:
Dr. Michael Brownbridge of the Vineland Research and Innovation Centre – “The Tools at Hand Towards a Chemical-Free Environment.”
Sooner or later chemicals will not be an option, so making the most of what we have now will give us the tools to stay in business when that time comes.
Brownbridge will set the tone for the day outlining the available options –some you could already be familiar with and others that are new to you that could be applied in your operation.
Many of these tools will also be discussed by the other speakers, so you will have ample opportunities to ask questions for clarification. The tone for the whole day is a workshop environment, which means interaction between the presenter and the attendees is encouraged.
Bill MacDonald, an instructor with Niagara College – “Biostimulants: What Are They?”
1Recognizing the next generation of the Greenhouse industry!
Greenhouse Canada’s annual search for young industry leaders is again underway! Canada is full of young, skilled knowledgeable people helping to drive the industry towards higher goals. From commercial growers and wholesalers to manufacturers, equipment suppliers and allied trades, they are the best and the brightest in our industry. Join us as we celebrate the future of greenhouse horticulture in Canada.
Who can be nominated?
Anyone in the horticulture or associated industries who is under the age of 40 as of December 31, 2016. Equipment and technology suppliers welcome.
all nominees should:
• demonstrate a strong work ethic
• show leadership and initiative
• actively seek new opportunities for training and education
• be involved in industry associations nominations aRe noW oPen
To nominate someone to be recognized as one of the Top 10 Under 40, visit greenhousecanada.com/top-10-under-40 to fill out a nomination form.
Nominations close on August 26th, 2016.
The Top 10 Under 40 will be featured in the November issue of Greenhouse Canada magazine.
Made possible by the generous support of our sponsor
MacDonald will share with us how biostimulants will be beneficial in our operations. He will discuss what they are, the differences and similarities between the various biostimulants, fertilizers and microbial fungicides. Biostimulants are an integral part of the quest toward a chemical-free greenhouse environment.
Dr. Rose Buitenhuis, of Vineland Research and Innovation Centre –“Biostimulants and Whitefly Control.”
Buitenhuis will make the connection between biostimulants and whitefly control. With more research, the application of biostimulants will be expanded to much more than whitefly control to include other crop issues, whether they are insects or diseases.
Here is her synopsis of these presentations. The morning session is: From the roots up: induced plant resistance to pests
“Biocontrol against diseases is based on the use of beneficial micro-organisms and microbe-derived products.
“These products have a direct effect against several plant pathogens, but can also induce a systemic defence response in the plant which can affect plant pests as well. In this project we tested several microbial products for potential positive or negative effects on the performance of greenhouse whitefly and spider mites and determined implications for pest IPM.”
The afternoon session is titled: How to make cutting dips part of an IPM system for poinsettia.
“Starting clean is an essential part of any IPM strategy. This presentation demonstrates that poinsettia cutting dips reduced whitefly infestation levels at the beginning of the production cycle
so that biocontrol strategies were more effective thereafter. We also determined the risks of disease transfer through the dipping process and calculated the costeffectiveness of dips in a poinsettia IPM strategy.”
Dr. Sarah Jandricic, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs – “The Whitefly Basics.”
Jandricic will discuss the basics, including the biology, species of concern, and the proper identification of the different stages and types of whitefly. By getting a firm handle on what we are looking at and the life cycles, we can then ensure our efforts to control whitefly or any other pest or disease are much more effective.
Grower Day will also include an opportunity for some biocontrol companies to voice their opinions and outline the products that can help in controlling whiteflies and offer guidelines to handle the beneficials for best results. In any process there are three steps:
• Know the process.
• Learn how to use it.
• Use it at the right time.
Ronald Valentin (Bioline), Dominique-Andre Demers (Biobest), Brian Spencer (Applied Bio-nomics) and Dr. Daniel Peck (BioWorks) will be sharing their knowledge, and attendees can pose questions to them.
Also leading a session will be Dennis Hitzigrath, general manager of Vivero Internacional. The company, based in Mexico, specializes in the production of plant cuttings. It produces a wide variety of pelargonium, poinsettia, New Guinea impatiens and dipladenia varieties. Vivero owns close to 100 acres of greenhouses and employs 800 people during the peak season.
In her second presentation, Jandricic will summarize the day and how growers can apply the information.
And last but not least, the panel discussion is where we can ask questions about the information that was presented for a better understanding of how it will fit in with the issues of whitefly control and plant biostimulants.
This is the part of the day in which grower interaction is so important.
Please bring your questions; there will definitely be at least one person on the panel who can provide the answer!
Grower Day includes a mini trade show of leading industry suppliers – a great networking opportunity.
The event is again being held at the St. Catharines Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites. There is plenty of free parking. Registration opens at 8 a.m., along with the trade show. The sessions will begin shortly after 9 a.m.
Grower Day has a microsite at
greenhousecanada.com/grower-day.
As I’ve said before, you are definitely headed for problems the minute you think you know it all. There are always better ways to do things. Continuous improvement is a must to thrive in the greenhouse or any business.
I can’t afford to miss next month’s Grower Day. How about you?
Melhem Sawaya is a consultant and research coordinator to the horticultural industry.
mel@focusgreenhousemanagement.com
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Splendor of the Grasses
Most cut flower books barely mention grasses. But heck, anything you want is on the Internet, right? Nope. It’s truly surprising how little is out there.
BY JOHN FRIEL
When you say “cut flowers,” most folks don’t picture grass plumes. But man does not live by red roses alone, and florists love happy surprises. For growers, grasses are a great crop. Compared to traditional cuts, they’re tough and adaptable. Many grow in marginally fertile soils and thrive with minimal maintenance. There’s a wide range of heights, colours and textures, and a reasonable harvest season. Deer leave them alone.
Grass flowers can be fine and delicate, like Muhlenbergia, or huge and fluffy, like Cortaderia. And flowers aren’t the whole story: long, graceful foliage makes a great filler or accent in arrangements.
Here are some grasses that work well as fresh cuts. Miscanthus Maiden Grass (Zones 5-10): This premier landscape genus is also at home in the
vase. Cut plumes young, or they’ll shatter indoors. Blades can be solid green or variegated; narrow, or very wide; longitudinally striped, or cross-banded. Broad-bladed types include ‘Cabaret’ (white centre, green edge) and ‘Cosmopolitan’ (green centre, white edge). Their foliage is 1.5 inches (3.54 cm) across.
Pennisetum alopecuroides: Fountain grass (Zones 6-9) ‘Red Head’ produces unusually large, smoky purple bottlebrush plumes. ‘Moudry’ flowers are nearly black. P. orientale ‘Karley Rose’ (Zones 5-9) has distinctive rose-pink flowers. P. macrostachyum ‘Burgundy Giant’ has wide burgundy leaves and very large foxtail flowers.
Big, annual Pennisetum varieties ‘Prince,’ ‘Noble’ and ‘First Knight™’ have wide, near-black blades. With these non-flowering hybrids, it’s all about the foliage.
ABOVE Pennisetum villosum needs netting for cut production. INSET Schizachyrium ‘The Blues’ in vase.
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Blades are typically sold to florists in bunches of 10 or more. Harvesting technique is simple: one grower says, “whack with grass clippers and pick out the good stuff.”
P. villosum, Feathertop grass (Zones 8-10). Puffy, ivory-white plumes sprawl charmingly in the border, but for cuts, support it with netting.
Schizachyrium
scoparium, little bluestem and Andropogon gerardii, big bluestem (Zones 3-9). Schizachyrium has numerous cultivars selected for ornamental traits, Andropogon only a few. It’s better known for naturalistic plantings and restoration. Intrinsic Perennial Farm
has updated Andropogon with ‘Rain Dance’ and ‘Blackhawks,’ selected for multi-coloured foliage. Rich reds and purples deepen as summer wanes. Schizachyrium varieties ‘Standing Ovation’ and ‘The Blues’ have tremendous lateseason stem colour.
Briza media: Quaking grass (Zones 4-10). The earliest grass to produce saleable flowers, Briza needs replanting every three years. Seed heads resemble Chasmanthium, but appear earlier, tinged red and purple.
Calamagrostis: Feather reed grass (Zones 4-10) is a cosmopolitan genus, found in Asia, Europe and the Americas. C. xacutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’ was the first grass named Perennial Plant of the Year. Hybrids ‘Avalanche,’ ‘Eldorado’ and ‘Karl Foerster’ are usually sterile and won’t self-sow. C. arundinacea var. brachytricha, whose pinktinged plumes are the biggest in the genus, is severely underappreciated.
Chasmanthium latifolium: Northern sea oats (Zones 5-9). Chasmanthium tolerates wet winters and can be harvested at different stages. Some growers cut when the inflorescence is fully mature, just before it turns tan. Others prefer it still soft, silky and green.
Cortaderia selloana: Pampas grass (Zones 8-10). A beautiful, tender giant. Feather-duster plumes soar to 10 feet (three metres) and beyond. Cortaderia can be grown in very large containers and moved indoors, but that’s a lot of work. The foliage is dangerously sharp. Why mention something so unsuited to Canada? The flowers. They’re phenomenal. Eragrostis spectabilis: Purple love grass (Zone 5-9). A North American native with fine clouds of reddish-purple panicles. An annual relative, E. tef, is an important African food crop and a trendy grain in America. ‘Ruby Silk’ is an ornamental form with nifty red flowers.
Helictotrichon sempervirens: Blue oat grass (Zones 4-9). A European native, spiky and glaucous blue, like a fescue’s big brother. Flower spikes rise to three feet (90 cm) over two foot (60 cm) foliage clumps.
Leymus arenarius ‘Blue Dune’: Blue Lyme grass, dune grass (Zones 4-9). Powder-blue sprawling foliage is two feet (60 cm) tall. Flower plumes stand four feet (1.2 m). It runs, but unwanted plants pull easily. Technically a cool-season grass, it handles roadside heat and salt. Blue/green seed heads are best tightly closed.
LEFT TO RIGHT Leymus ‘Blue Dune’ runs and sprawls, but sports useful seed spikes. Grasses in a pumpkin for a great fall display. Miscanthus plumes must be harvested young and tight. Miscanthus ‘Cosmopolitan’ foliage is bright and very broad.
Muhlenbergia capillaris: Purple muhly grass (Zones 6-10). Named for Gotthilf Muhlenberg, minister, naturalist and botanist, this native produces prodigious clouds of dazzling pink/purple seedheads. It’s a little tender and late-flowering for northern growers, but a newer form, ‘Fast Forward,’ blooms weeks earlier.
Panicum virgatum (Zones 4-10). A North American native with many cultivars. ‘Heavy Metal’ gets high marks for upright posture, steel-blue foliage and ease of production. ‘Hot Rod’ has rich maroon-red blades. Both tolerate clay soils, won’t blow down, and can be cut at several stages.
Most cut flower books barely mention grasses. But heck, anything you want is on the Internet, right? Nope. It’s surprising how little is out there. For unusual cuts, the online info mother lode is a bulletin board maintained by and for members of the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers. Ohio-based ASCFG is a tremendous resource, well worth the price of membership, especially if you’re new to cuts. Members are famously willing to share information on everything from sourcing seeds to building your own cooler. They’ve made the mistakes and can save you from repeating them. Learn more at ascfg.org.
John Friel is marketing manager for Emerald Coast Growers, one of North America’s largest liner producers. For more information on perennials, specialty plants or ornamental grasses, call 877-804-7277, e-mail sales@ecgrowers.com or visit www.ecgrowers.com.
CANADA
CLASSIFIEDS
CLASSIFIED RATES: Minimum order $75.00 or 84¢ per word, word ads must be pre-paid. CLASSIFIED DISPLAYS: $72.00 per column inch, or $5.14 per agate line. GENERAL INFORMATION: Payment must accompany order. Copy required by the 1st of the month preceding publication. All advertising copy subject to the approval of the publisher. Send order and remittance to: Classified Dept., Greenhouse Canada, P.O. Box 530, 105 Donly Dr. S., Simcoe, ON N3Y 4N5
SEEKING GROWER PARTNERS IN WESTERN CANADA & QUEBEC: We are actively seeking well-established greenhouse operation/growers to partner with the brand owner. These growers would be responsible for the provinces of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, BC and Quebec to complete a national program. Must have adequate facilities and resources available to deliver expected performance. For more information please contact Joe at 519718-1435. 05/1t/pd
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GARY JONES | Gary.Jones@kpu.ca
Growing Interest in Biopesticides
When we talk about “biocontrol,” we’re normally referring to insect biological control agents such as Encarsia formosa, Amblyseius cucumeris (now a.k.a. Neoseiulus cucumeris) or Stratiolaelaps scimitus (Hypoaspis miles, or whatever it is called this week).
But what about non-insect beneficials – the “biopesticides?” In Canada, biopesticides and other non-conventional pesticides are grouped as follows:
Microbials: A micro-organism (bacteria, alga, fungus, protozoan, virus, mycoplasma or rickettsia and related organisms) and any associated metabolites to which the effects of pest control are attributed.
Semio-chemicals: Message-bearing substances produced by a plant or animal, or a functionally identical synthetic analogue of that substance, which evokes a behavioural response in individuals of the same or other species (e.g. pheromones).
Other non-conventional pest control products: Substances not covered by the above categories which meet some or all of the following criteria: (i) low inherent toxicity to non-target organisms, (ii) not persistent in the environment, (iii) pesticidal action is not the result of toxicity to the organism, (iv) low likelihood of selecting for pest resistance, and (v) already widely available to the public for other uses, with a history of safe use
Microbial pesticides consist of a microorganism (e.g., a bacterium, fungus, virus or protozoan) as the active ingredient.
Biochemical pesticides: naturally occurring substances that control pests by non-toxic mechanisms and include substances that interfere with mating, such as insect sex pheromones, as well as various scented plant extracts that attract insect pests to traps.
Plant-incorporated-protectants (PIPs): pesticidal substances that plants produce from genetic material that has been added to the plant. For example, scientists can take the gene for the B.t. pesticidal protein and introduce the gene into the plant’s own genetic material. Then the plant, instead of the B.t. bacterium, manufactures the substance that destroys the pest. The protein and its genetic material, but not the plant itself, are regulated by EPA.2 (In other words, the plant has been genetically engineered [GE].)
In Canada, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada maintains a “Biopesticide Database Directory” intended to assist with finding biopesticide products for which the active ingredient may be non-conventional, a micro-organism, or a semiochemical.1
“The database shows 86 registered biopesticides in Canada.”
under conditions posing equivalent potential for exposure to humans and the environment.
Included in this category are common food items, extracts, preservatives or additives, plant extracts and oils, commodity chemicals that have a range of non-pesticidal uses, fertilizer or other plant growth supplements commonly used in the agricultural sector, and inert materials.1
In the U.S., according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “biopesticides are certain types of pesticides derived from such natural materials as animals, plants, bacteria and certain minerals. For example, canola oil and baking soda have pesticidal applications and are considered biopesticides. As of September 2015, there were 436 registered biopesticide active ingredients and 1,401 active biopesticide product registrations” in the U.S.2 Like Canada, the EPA uses three main categories:
The database shows 86 registered biopesticides in Canada. In the U.S., it reveals 239 product registrations. (Note: the database was last updated in 2010, and since that time several company acquisitions have taken place, merging product lines. This partially accounts for the difference in numbers reported by the EPA above.) As noted, there are differences in how products are classified with the third category listed being quite different in scope. Classifying GE products as more acceptable “biopesticides” is very misleading. If we hope to have any international uniformity in what growers can and can’t use, it would be helpful to harmonize the definition of biopesticide classifications and find that famous, albeit elusive, “level playing field.”
1 http://www.agr.gc.ca/eng
2 https://www.epa.gov
Gary Jones is co-chair of horticulture at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Langley, B.C. He serves on several industry committees and welcomes comments at Gary.Jones@kpu.ca.
Du-All Barrow
Rijk Zwaan Open House
Thursday, June 9
To become familiar with our varieties, you will be taken for a guided tour. Please book your appointment in advance by Marleen van der Torre at m.van.der.torre@rijkzwaan.com or call our office at 1 519 324 0632.
We are looking forward to seeing you from 10 AM - 5 PM!
