Gardener News March 2026

News Gardener News

International Year of the Woman Farmer

Tom Castronovo/Photo

According to the USDA Forest Service the most common tree in both numbers and range is red maple, Acer rubrum. This attractive tree is found naturally from Canada south to Florida and west to Minnesota and Texas and is in almost all NJ counties. It grows best in moist, moderately acid soil but can tolerate an incredible range of acidity from a strong acid pH of 4.4 to a moderately basic 7.4. Red maple can also thrive in a range of moisture from medium, well-drained soil to growing one foot above the water line on low hummocks in the middle of a swamp. In addition, as expected, the tree does very well in a variety of soils: from sand, to clay, to rich loam. When well established red maples can tolerate heat, cold, urban pollution, and moderate drought.

Red maple is a medium sized tree, generally growing from 40-70 feet tall with a spread of 30-50 feet and a trunk diameter of about two feet. Maximum height is 135 feet and a diameter of five feet. The lifespan is 75-100 years -150 years. Red maple has one of the smallest seeds of any maple and a 1-foot diameter tree can produce over

What is the Most Common Tree in the US? The Native Plant Society of New Jersey

one million seeds a season.

All these superior characteristics make me wonder why all other trees are so much less endowed. However, red maple does not compete well with shade tolerant climax forest trees such as oaks, hickory, and sugar maple except in very damp soil. The current high density of red maple appears to be due in large part to the loss of chestnut, elm, and now ash and beech.

As a pioneer tree, red maple plays an important role in the regrowth of mature forests. The tree is also very important especially to early pollinators since few other pollen and nectar sources are available as early as late February (in southern states). The flowers are utilized

By Hubert Ling Horticulture Chair

by bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, flies and occasionally by an early hummingbird. However, the flowers are also wind pollinated.

In NJ, red maple blooms from early to late-March. The 1/8th inch male and female flowers can be either red or yellow and are arranged in 0.5-0.7inch clusters. Male and female flowers are usually on separate trees, but any particular tree can change sexes. Even though the trees may have over a million flowers, since they are so small, many people don’t notice that trees are in full bloom. Red maple leaves generally have three or five major lobes. In contrast to sugar or Norway maple, the margins of red maple

leaves between lobes form a sharp ‘V’ instead of a ‘U’. In addition, red maple has smooth gray bark when young which is gradually replaced by ridges in very old trees.

Red maples generally show red somewhere: the flowers are generally red, the trigs are often red, the young fruit can be a brilliant red as can the leaves in fall. The fruits are 2-winged (double) samaras and are used as food by finches and game birds. Red maple is also a host plant for butterflies and moths. However, the bark and leaves are toxic to livestock and horses.

In colonial America, the bark was used to make ink and brown and black dyes. Red maple has frequently been used

for landscaping, and numerous cultivars are available including ‘October Glory’ which was selected by Princeton Nurseries in 1961 for its superior fall color. It is also a female selection and thus its use avoids pollen allergies. However, red maple has shallow roots and may raise sidewalks if planted too close. Red maple produces high quality lumber which often has a highly prized curly or fiddleback grain. Although it is softer than sugar maple, it is still relatively hard, and more uniform and stable than sugar maple. Red maple also makes a high-quality maple syrup, but the quality degrades when buds emerge, which happens early in red maples.

Red maples are easy to maintain and grow relatively rapidly almost anywhere. For photos see: https://www. awesomenativeplants.info/ photo_galleries/photo_pages/ acer_rubrum.html

Editor’s Note: Hubert Ling is Past President of The Native Plant Society of NJ and Horticulture Chair. He can be reached at milhubling@verizon.net.

The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture sets its Federal Policy Focus for 2026

NASDA’s members-led Board of Directors chose five issues to serve as the organization’s primary policy focus for 2026. They include agricultural labor reform, animal disease preparedness and traceability, the farm bill, pesticide regulations, and regional food procurement and distribution. NASDA President, Commissioner Amanda Beal, remarked on the impact NASDA will have for farmers and communities with these priorities.

“As the nonpartisan, memberled association representing state departments of agriculture, we sit at a unique intersection, where federal policy meets on-the-ground implementation, where national priorities meet local realities,” Beal said. “These priorities are grounded in what works, what farmers need, and what states know. We will work urgently to address the opportunities these policy priorities represent.”

NASDA CEO Ted McKinney remarked on the significance of these issues for 2026.

“NASDA members have designated

these priorities as critical to farmers, ranchers and consumers nationwide,” McKinney said. “They also represent key areas where state departments of agriculture are uniquely positioned to lead policy solutions and serve communities across their states.”

NASDA has published one-pagers offering background and insight for each policy priority.

Agricultural Labor Reform

All segments of American agriculture are hindered by critical labor shortages, artificially high costs associated with the H-2A program, and other regulatory barriers to a full and skilled agricultural workforce. NASDA is imploring Congress and federal agencies to establish an agricultural labor policy framework that provides a legal, reliable workforce and treats workers with respect.

Animal Disease Preparedness &

Traceability

State departments of agriculture, along with other federal and state partners, are responsible for tracking, responding and containing outbreaks

of animal diseases in their states to protect the livestock industry, and more broadly, the U.S. food supply. NASDA’s policy positions advocate for establishing strong animal health programs that could save billions of dollars of losses in the future from economically devastating diseases.

Farm Bill

The upcoming farm bill must be dedicated to supporting American agriculture and essential food and nutrition assistance programs. This bill shapes agricultural policy, supports farmers, ensures food security and promotes sustainable natural resource management.

Pesticide Regulations

A predictable, enforceable, scienceand risk-based pesticide regulatory framework is essential for maintaining agricultural productivity while minimizing adverse impacts on human health, the environment and endangered species. To this end, NASDA supports state primacy in the enforcement of pesticide activities under the Federal

Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act and calls on Congress for appropriate and sustained funding for state lead agencies as co-regulatory partners with EPA.

Regional Food Procurement & Distribution

NASDA will advocate for policies that strengthen regional food systems through infrastructure investments, flexible state purchasing programs, and expanded institutional procurement of local foods to support the viability of small and medium-sized farms and nutritional outcomes.

Editor’s Note: NASDA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit association which represents the elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries, and directors of the departments of agriculture in all 50 states and four U.S. territories. NASDA grows and enhances American food and agricultural communities through policy, partnerships and public engagement.

As I sit here and contemplate this article, I look out my window and see my garden area.

The ground is frozen solid, there is a measurable combination of snow topped with sleet and ice and, to be frank, I hate it. I am definitely a warm-weather person for sure. Anyone that might remember the old holiday special, “The Year Without a Santa Claus,” I am most closely, personalitywise, the Heat Miser.

But there is benefit in this bitterly cold weather. We haven’t really had a “good” winter in my area of New Jersey in a few years. And if you, like me, enjoy warmer weather, you might not see what I’m about to describe as a “good winter.”

There’s an old saying, “Snow is poor man’s fertilizer.” And like many old sayings, there is some truth to it. Both snow and rain contain nitrogen, but with snow, the nitrogen attaches itself to the snowflake and lands on the ground and slowly enters the soil as the snow melts. This provides a natural release of fertilizer to roots of plants over time before the green world reawakens later in spring.

Because of the composition

NJ Dept. of Agriculture

By Joe Atchison III Assistant Secretary of Agriculture

Keep It Cool in March

of snow, it provides excellent insulation of the soil and plant roots. Without snow, these cold temperatures that usually hit us in winter can damage plant roots, including those of trees and shrubs.

Though it would seem illogical, snow also protects against extreme temperature fluctuations in the soil. Under that snow blanket, the roots of perennials, bulbs, ground covers, and strawberry plants are protected from the cycle of freezing and thawing (the so-called freeze-thaw cycle) that can push tender roots right out of the ground. Without snow, milder temperatures and the sun could warm the soil surface, leading to damage from soil heaving, which is the upward swelling

movement of the ground.

A good hard freeze also can provide benefits for soil health by giving microbes a pause, and allowing them to prepare for spring, when they’ll be beneficial for growth. It can also kill off pests, like those darn mosquitoes and many kinds of gnats and flies that might try to overwinter.

Most exposed adult insects will die off after two consecutive days of less than 28 degrees Fahrenheit. Different species of mosquitoes have different levels of cold resiliency, but the colder it is, the fewer of their type will emerge in the spring. It will also reduce some grubs, but many simply burrow deeper and surface again in warmer weather, when you’ll need to

Jersey Tastes. Jersey Tastes.

A Year-Round Celebration of the Garden State's Fruits and Vegetables

NUTRITION FACTS:

A single cup of raw kale contains 134% of the recommended daily value of Vitamin C! Kale is also an excellent source of Vitamin A, B6, and K and the minerals Potassium & Copper

FUN FACT:

According to NPR, "The Best Piece of Triv You Learned This Week: Pizza Hut Editio Pizza Hut was among the biggest purchasers of Kale prior to 2012

deal with them for the sake of your plants. Stay on top of those things to keep your garden healthy.

Now that March is here and we have made it through that cold (and we are waiting until “spring has sprung”) we can talk about cool weather crops you enjoy having in your garden and when the best time is to plant your favorites.

A personal favorite at my house is sugar snap peas. When my kids were younger, they would eat these treats like they were chips. In fact, the kids would eat them instead of chips. The best time to plant these is in late-February through earlyApril, but we always plant them on Saint Patrick’s Day as a bit of Atchison family tradition.

Lettuces and other greens are adapted for cool weather and do well when planted in March. Kale is super hardy and is known for its resilience. It can be planted directly in March. Spinach is a favorite in the spring and in the fall. Broccoli is another hardy favorite for early season planting. Cabbages provide a variety of options that thrive in cool weather and provide colors among the mostly green spring crops.

Overall, while we can’t wait to get out in our gardens as the days and weeks turn warmer, content yourself for now with the knowledge that going through a good, strong winter is a great way to get ready for those outdoor activities.

Here’s to the beginning of a great gardening season! Keep it green and growing all season long.

Editor’s Note: Joe Atchison III is the New Jersey Assistant Secretary of Agriculture. Atchison is also the Director of the Division of Marketing and Development for the New Jersey Department of Agriculture. He can be reached at (609) 292-3976.

Jersey Fresh Harvest of the Month: Kale

ALL ABOUT NEW JERSEY:

Kale is a cool season crop; it grows in the spring and fall in New Jersey: March - June and September - December

HOW DOES IT GROW:

Kale likes to be directly seeded into the ground, and it grows into a leafy green, which is the part of the plant we eat

Kale loves the cooler weather and becomes sweeter after a frost!

https://www.nj.gov/agriculture/farmtoschool

RUTGERS NJAES/RCE

From the Director’s Desk

Rutgers Outreach

Provided by Brian Schilling Director

The Impact of Gardening on Children and Adult Connections

Once thought of as a hobby, gardening has become part of the fabric of communities, enriching and strengthening the quality of our lives. This is particularly true for the relationship between children and adults. The shared experience of gardening strengthens the social and emotional bonds between generations. When working together toward a shared goal, the garden becomes a living space for collaboration, communication, and mutual growth.

process, issues will arise in the garden that require problemsolving, allowing children to learn patience, resilience, and creative thinking, reinforcing the idea that both child and adult contributions matter. Studies in experiential learning show that when children participate in handson, goaloriented tasks with adults, they develop stronger feelings of competence and belonging.

Rutgers Cooperative Extension Phone Directory

Atlantic County

Phone: 609-625-0056

Bergen County Phone: 201-336-6780

Burlington County Phone: 609-265-5050

Camden County Phone: 856 216 7130

Cape May County Phone: 609-465-5115

Cumberland County Phone: 856-451-2800

Essex County Phone: 973-228-2210

Gloucester County Phone: 856-224-8040

Hudson County Phone: 201-915-1399

Hunterdon County Phone: 908-788-1339

Mercer County Phone: 609-989-6830

Middlesex County

Phone: 732-398-5260

Monmouth County Phone: 732-431-7260

Morris County Phone: 973-285-8300

Ocean County Phone:732-349-1246

Passaic County Phone: 973-305-5740

Salem County Phone: 856-769-0090

Somerset County Phone: 908-526-6293

Sussex County Phone: 973-948-3040

Union County Phone: 908-654-9854

Warren County Phone: 908-475-6505

Research in child development, environmental psychology, and education consistently shows that gardening fosters cooperation, enhances emotional wellbeing, and deepens intergenerational relationships. This article explores how gardening strengthens these connections by examining shared purpose, communication, emotional development, and the unique benefits of outdoor environments.

The shared purpose of working toward a common goal is one of the most powerful ways to build connection. In gardening, children and adults engage in joint tasks such as planting seeds, preparing soil, watering, and harvesting. These activities require coordination and shared decisionmaking, which naturally promote teamwork and serve as invaluable lessons as children develop social skills. Along with improved interpersonal dynamics, learning occurs most effectively through social interaction, especially when a more knowledgeable partner guides the process. Gardening provides realworld context for this as adults model techniques while children contribute curiosity and creativity.

Long-term projects also help children build social skills and deepen their knowledge in a fastpaced, soundbite-driven world. Watching seeds sprout, plants mature, and vegetables ripen creates a sense of shared accomplishment over extended time. During this

Gardening also creates a natural environment for open communication. Unlike structured indoor activities, gardening allows conversations to unfold organically. Longterm effort and shared goal achievement build trust by fostering natural, open dialogue, thus strengthening relationships. The repetitive, calming nature of tasks such as watering or weeding reduces pressure and encourages children to express thoughts and feelings more freely. Adults, in turn, have opportunities to listen, respond, and mentor a future generation of strong communicators.

The emotional benefits of gardening extend beyond communication. Working with plants fosters empathy and nurturing behaviors as children learn to care for living things. This sense of responsibility is reinforced when adults model gentle handling of plants and celebrate small successes, such as the first sprout or a ripe tomato.

Gardening also supports emotional regulation. Naturebased activities have been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and behavioral challenges in children. When adults and children experience these calming effects together, they share a state of emotional balance that strengthens their relationship. The garden becomes a peaceful space where both generations can slow down, breathe, and reconnect.

Getting started on the journey of gardening with a child, whether they are a family member, a student, or part of a community,

is easier when planning includes both the gardening and the social aspects of the project. Here are a few suggestions for both areas. Choose easycare plants such as root vegetables, pepper plants, and herbs to set the garden up for success. While radishes, jalapeños, and thyme might be easy to grow, opting for produce that may be more appealing to children, such as carrots, sweet Mad Hatter peppers, and mint helps ensure enthusiasm. Ensuring that the child wants to eat their harvest is imperative to creating a positive culminating experience.

Keeping a shared journal fosters communication and creates a lasting treasure that can be cherished for years to come. Press leaves into the pages, write about the insects you see, note the dates and times that seeds first sprout. There are many resources, both on-line and in print, to guide creating a nature journal. This log of the project might be the most meaningful thing “grown” that season.

Another strategy that fosters engagement for the child is to establish ownership areas within the garden. While working together on the garden as a whole, creating ownership of a subsection allows the child to lead in a safe and nurturing environment while at the same time learning to support others as part of a team.

Gardening offers a rich, multidimensional pathway for strengthening connections between children and adults. Through shared goals, open communication, emotional coregulation, and the restorative power of nature, gardening fosters deeper relationships built on trust, cooperation, and mutual respect. As both generations work side by side to nurture life in the soil, they also nurture their bond with each other. In a world where digital distractions often pull families apart, gardening provides a grounded, meaningful way to grow together.

RUTGERS NJAES/RCE

LAND-GRANT UNIVERSITY NEWS

Announcement by Nicholas Polanin, chair of the Department of Agricultural and Natural Resources

Please join me in welcoming Patrick McMullen as our newest tenure-track faculty member. Patrick joins us from Cornell University, where he recently completed his PhD focused on soilborne pathogen management and healthy crop establishment. He earned a

bachelor’s degree in biology from Lebanon Valley College in Pennsylvania. He joins our faculty and staff at the Atlantic County office of Rutgers Cooperative Extension in Mays Landing, where his outreach and Extension practice will focus on sustainable

commercial vegetable production.

I wish to thank the search committee, chaired by Gary Pavlis, for their diligence in recruiting, reviewing, and interviewing candidates.

A big “Thank You” goes out to local growers John Vanni and

Jennifer LaMonaca, members of the search committee, and all the members of the Atlantic County Board of Agriculture for their commitment to filling this position and providing farm visits for all of our candidates.

Rutgers Showcases Research and Expertise at 2026 Northeast Agricultural Expo

Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station (NJAES) played a leading role in shaping the 2026 Northeast Agricultural Expo (formerly the New Jersey Agricultural Convention and Trade Show), held January 21–23 at Harrah’s Resort and Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City.

In remarks to the delegates, NJAES Executive Director Laura Lawson expressed appreciation to Secretary of Agriculture Ed Wengryn, Assemblywoman Andrea Katz, State Board of Agriculture President Bob Blew, Farm Bureau President Alan Carter, and the representatives of New Jersey’s agricultural community for the opportunity to once again address the convention. She conveyed greetings on behalf of Rutgers University President William F. Tate IV, Chancellor Francine Conway and Provost Jason Geary, noting Rutgers’ deep commitment to its land-grant mission and to serving the state’s agricultural community at the highest levels of university leadership.

Lawson also highlighted the release of the 2025 NJAES Annual Report and reaffirmed the experiment station’s focus on four critical issue areas that build sustainable and resilient communities across New Jersey: advancing viable agriculture and aquaculture; ensuring healthy outcomes in food, nutrition, and health; promoting positive youth development; and protecting and sustaining natural resources. Together, she noted, these priorities demonstrate NJAES’s continued dedication to innovation, partnership and practical solutions that strengthen New Jersey agriculture and the communities it supports.

In partnership with the Vegetable Growers Association of New Jersey, NJAES’ Rutgers

Cooperative Extension (RCE) helped deliver one of the region’s most comprehensive agricultural education programs—reinforcing the university’s impact on farm viability and the state’s agricultural economy.

RCE agricultural agents Michelle InfanteCasella (Gloucester County) and William Bamka (Burlington County) co-chaired the wide-ranging Rutgers educational program, coordinating 82 presenters across three days of workshops and concurrent sessions. The event drew a sold-out trade show floor and strong statewide participation from farmers, agricultural professionals, 4-H and FFA students, and industry partners.

Pre-convention workshops set the tone with hands-on, practical learning experiences. Sessions focused on On-Farm Food Safety, Pesticide Safety, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Pest Diagnostics, and Farm Labor and Regulations—core areas where Rutgers research directly supports farm productivity, regulatory compliance, and environmental stewardship.

New for 2026, the IPM Workshop provided interactive training with microscopes, pheromone traps, and pest specimens, translating Rutgers research into real-world applications growers can implement immediately.

RCE hosted five concurrent morning sessions and five afternoon sessions on day one that covered a wide range of commodities and production systems. Topics included Technology for Field Crop Production, Vegetable Production, Tree Fruit and Small Fruit, Nursery Crops, Blueberries and Greenhouse Production. These sessions highlighted science-based practices that increase crop yields, improve quality, reduce input costs, and promote sustainable land management—key drivers of New Jersey’s

multibillion-dollar agricultural sector.

Day two highlighted by a keynote address from Temple Grandin, world-renowned animal scientist and professor at the University of Colorado. Her presentation drew farmers, educators, 4-H members and FFA students from across the region. Rutgers strategically aligned its Equine and Livestock sessions with Grandin’s appearance, further strengthening engagement with the animal agriculture community. Additional educational sessions led by Rutgers faculty and agents addressed Environmental Issues in Agriculture, Soil Health and Cover Cropping, Cut Flower Production, Agricultural Technology, Agricultural Marketing and Specialty Crops.

Beyond knowledge transfer, the expo delivered direct professional value. The RCE program provided NJDEP Pesticide Applicator Recertification Credits—offering more credits than in 2025—and reinforced critical safety and pest management practices. RCE personnel remain central to pesticide education and the state’s licensing process, helping ensure that New Jersey agriculture operates safely, sustainably, and in compliance with state regulations.

By translating university research into actionable guidance, Rutgers continues to strengthen key pillars of New Jersey’s agricultural economy, including farm profitability, environmental resilience, and workforce development.

With momentum growing and planning already underway for the 2027 Expo, Rutgers Cooperative Extension remains at the forefront of advancing innovation, collaboration, and economic vitality across the Garden State’s agricultural community.

Looking out my front window, I see three mediumsized coniferous evergreens. They were planted to screen the telephone pole, which they are effectively doing now that they are about 25 feet tall.

There have been many selections made on the Eastern red-cedar, Juniperus virginiana. Most notable Juniperus virginiana Emerald Sentinel™ was awarded the Gold Medal distinction from the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. It is a native evergreen that is found throughout the eastern half of the United States. At maturity it has a loose pyramidal form, dark green foliage, and attractive blue fruits which are a good food source for native songbirds. Another favorite selection of the Eastern red-cedar is ‘Grey Owl’. This is more shrublike and broad spreading and has very attractive grey-blue foliage. It is a nice back drop for the winterberry holly, such as Ilex verticillata ‘Winter Red’.

There are many native pines. There is no more widely planted conifer in the MidAtlantic than the white pine, Pinus strobus. Throughout the region white pines are dotted through the landscape. The white pine was a popular conifer planted as many communities were being developed over the last one hundred years or so. This majestic pine is

Pennsylvania Horticultural Society

By Andrew Bunting Vice President of Horticulture

Native Conifers

native throughout all of the northeastern states extending west through the upper west and following the Appalachian Mountains south to Georgia. In my opinion, there is no tree more majestic and iconically northeastern than the white pine. My neighbors have a towering white pine that was probably planted 75 years ago. It is nearly 100 feet tall and provides a stunning architectural backdrop to my garden. By nature, white pines are brittle and vulnerable to strong winds and especially wet, heavy snows. During these episodes branches smash to the ground leaving the pines twisted, distorted and amazingly picturesque. This soft-needled pine provides a delicate yet masculine statement in the garden from infancy to maturity. In its youth this five-needled pine (five needles per cluster) will form an upright and pyramidal tree for the first several decades in the garden. After losing branches to weather events,

it will take on a weathered appearance with flat-topped tiers.

There are several pines that are native to the U. S. In the South, the loblolly pine, Pinus taeda is a very ubiquitous species, but is rare in the north, however, there are a few reasonably sized specimens dotted throughout the region. Additionally, the longleaf pine, Pinus palustris is probably even more rare, but can be cultivated with a bit of winter protection. Growing in the New Jersey Pine Barrens are two native pines, pitch pine, Pinus rigida and the Virginia pine, Pinus virginiana. Both of these are heat and drought tolerant pines and shorter in stature than the aforementioned white pine and have more of a rugged architectural appearance. However, both are good subjects for local native habitats and plantings.

Historically, the U. S. National Arboretum has been a leader in tree and shrub

hybridizing and breeding. Many excellent selections and cultivars of crepemyrtles, viburnums, flowering cherries, and many more have been introduced by the National Arboretum. Two selections of hemlocks are recent introductions. Tsuga ‘Traveler’ and ‘Crossroad’ are both interspecific hybrids between Tsuga chinensis and T. carolinana and have shown great resistance to the adelgid and scale insects. In their youth both cultivars are very dense and have a full pyramidal habit. ‘Traveler’ over time has an elegant habit where the tips of the branches are open and somewhat pendant. ‘Crossroad’ is more upright, symmetrical, and pyramidal. There are two native conifers that are deciduous. Both have proven to tolerate urban conditions and are promoted as street trees. The bald cypress, Taxodium distichum grows along the edge of ponds, lakes, and swamps and unlike many

APHIS Issues Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact for Garlic Mustard Biological Control

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is issuing an Environmental Assessment (EA) and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for releasing the weevil Ceutorhynchus scrobicollis to biologically control the invasive weed garlic mustard Alliaria petiolate in the continental United States. After careful analysis, APHIS has determined that the release of this biological control agent in the continental United States will not have a significant impact on the quality of the human environment.

About Garlic Mustard

Garlic mustard is native to Europe. It was first recorded in North America in 1868 on Long Island, New York. It has since spread to at least 37 states. Garlic mustard is a highly invasive species that displaces native plants and disrupts forest ecosystems. It produces abundant seeds

and chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants, allowing it to form dense stands and outcompete other understory species. Traditional herbicide treatments have not provided effective long-term control, and unmanaged sites continually reintroduce seeds, making long-term management challenging.

Next Steps

APHIS will begin reviewing permit applications for the environmental release of Ceutorhynchus scrobicollis into the continental United States to control invasive garlic mustard. Each permit application requires a consultation period with the affected state(s).

The EA and FONSI are available for public review at: www.aphis.usda.gov/plant-pests-diseases/ environmental-assessments. For more information, send an email to PPQbiocontrol@usda.gov and include Ceutorhynchus scrobicollis in the subject line.

conifers can tolerate extremely wet conditions. Over time it develops into a statuesque upright tree towering to nearly 100 feet tall. In the fall, the very fine foliage turns a brilliant copper color before the leaves fall. Equally, picturesque with many of the same attributes is the pond cypress, Taxodium ascendens. Debonair® is a particularly fine specimen.

Editor’s Note: Andrew Bunting is Vice President of Horticulture for the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. He is one of the most recognized horticulturists in the Philadelphia, Pa., region and a highly regarded colleague in the world of professional horticulture. Bunting has amassed a plethora of awards, including the American Public Gardens Association Professional Citation, Chanticleer Scholarship in Professional Development, Delaware Center for Horticulture’s Marion Marsh Award, and the Certificate of Merit from the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. In addition, Bunting has lectured extensively throughout North America and Europe, and participated in plant expeditions throughout Asia and Africa. Learn more at https://phsonline.org/team/ andrew-bunting

National Ag Day 2026

The Agriculture Council of America will celebrate National Ag Day on March 24, 2026. This annual event recognizes the important role agriculture plays in everyday life by providing food, fiber, and renewable products. It also helps people understand how farming supports the economy and communities. National Ag Day falls during National Ag Week. The theme for 2026 as “Agriculture: Together We Grow: Celebrating 250 Years of Progress in Agriculture,” emphasizing collaboration across the agricultural value chain, from farmers and ranchers to agribusinesses, educators, and consumers.

The Garden Historian

By Lesley Parness Garden Educator

The Zinnia, From Eyesore to Eyeful

Flower seed catalogs arrive daily featuring one of my favorite annuals – zinnias. First noted in the 16th century by the Spanish during their conquest of the Aztecs in Mexico, zinnia were an eyesore. “Mal de Ojos” then featured small, weedy, dull purple or yellow flowers.

Dr. Johann Gottfried Zinn, a German doctor and botanist at the Gottingen University received seeds of these plants in 1750 from the German Ambassador to Mexico. In a strangely poetic plot twist, Zinn, who became the Director of the University’s Botanic Garden, wrote “Descripto Anatomica Oculi Humani,” a spectacular treatise on the human eye’s anatomy while simultaneously introducing Mal de Ojos to Europe.

A century later, French horticulturists began to experiment with zinnias, by then named in Dr. Zinn’s honor by Linnaeus. Zinnias became the rage, but early cultivars did best only in Europe’s sunnier, warmer locations. Fast forward another 100 years and the zinnia captured the attention of American plant breeder Luther Burbank and his cousin, William Atlee Burpee. Burbee and his son, David, led the field in hybridization.

“A significant horticultural innovation occurred in the 1940s when Burpee’s experimental breeders began to “shock” the chromosome structures of flowers with tiny amounts of colchicine, a poisonous alkaloid obtained from the autumn crocus and thereby empowered the plants to emerge in dramatic new forms.... Burpee breeders had basically invented marigolds and zinnias from seeds of Central American wildflowers” (W. Atlee Burpee

and Company History).

It took a few decades of breeding, but eventually Burpee and Company developed the many faces of zinnia – the button zinnias, the giant, and dahlia sized, cactus, pompom, mini, and the cut flower zinnias. Now, few annuals come in a wider range of heights, habits, and colors. Zinnia haageana, Z. peruviana and Z. elegans are three (of nearly 20) zinnia species that provided the best results. Within those categories are 100’s of cultivars. Haageana, or the Mexican zinnia, with its hairy leaves is well suited for the heat. The Peruvian zinnia will manage on thin soil, and Zinnia elegans gives us all the giants and the dahlia-like flowers.

What have I learned from two decades of growing zinnia? Zinnias prefer well drained and well composted soil. Keep them pinched and dead headed for continuous blooms. It’s about 90 days from seed to bloom, so I prefer starting seeds indoors midMarch. Many people however will insist that transplants underperform direct sown zinnia. Direct sow or put out seedlings about mid-May. Either way, seeds should be planted ¼-inch deep and leave a foot in between rows – good air circulation is key to avoiding and managing the inevitable powdery mildew. I plant stuff in front of zinnia so that when the mildew appears it’s not as noticeable. Keep the soil moist while the seeds are germinating. Sun, sun, sun – at least six hours a day. Do not water zinnia from above, put the water at the root line to forestall that mildew. Do not plant them next to other plants that get mildew –like cucumbers. Mulch to prevent

leaf splash whereby the mildew spores transfer from the soil to the plant. Be on the lookout for the early signs of mildew and treat the plants post haste. How? In order of the degree of severity, I use whole milk/water spray (1:9 ratio), a baking soda/ water spray (1T/1 gallon + dab of Dawn), or finally Neem oil/water spray (2T/1 quart water + dab Dawn). Spray the leaf tops and undersides every week. And keep those clippers sterilized! How to cut zinnias so they don’t flop over? Bring a bucket of warm water with you, cut flowers at a node and on an angle, put them into the water immediately, and keep them out of direct sun. Which zinnia will I be growing this year? I like zinnia with no yellow eyes. When you have that many flowers, the yellow impact adds up visually. From Harris Seeds, the ‘Giant Orange’ Benary zinnia. They are mildew resistant and last forever in a vase. Scattered with ‘Tequila Lime’ and ‘Queenie Lime Orange.’ A joyful combination! ‘Polar Bear’ from Hudson Valley Seeds, a tall pure white beauty that mixes well with foliage in an arrangement. From Baker Seeds, ‘Mazurkas,’ a cheery red and white Polish striped charmer that reminds me of my Grandma Anna, and ‘Redman Super Cactus,’ whose thick twisted petals’ articulation make my heart catch. It’s an heirloom, so more prone to mildew, but so lovely that it’s worth the effort. Finally, Zinderella ‘Fizz’ with its frilly, crested, scabiosa-like blooms and rosy attitude. What zinnia will you grow? Whichever zinnia we choose, they are sure to be “an eyeful, not an eyesore!”

Editor’s Note: Lesley Parness offers a variety of presentations and workshops for garden clubs, plant societies, and horticultural gatherings. Recently retired from her position as Superintendent of Horticultural Education at the Morris County Park Commission, and with four decades of teaching environmental science and garden education, her focus now is garden history. A complete listing of her talks can be seen at lesleyparness.com and she can be reached at parness@verizon.net. This column will appear in the paper every other month.

Bobcat® T7X Electric Compact Track Loader

New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association

Happy March everyone! We have survived the crazy snow and terribly brisk weather. We’re hopefully on the precipice of a beautiful spring! I’d like to talk about membership just a bit, as it is still so important for all industries to participate in their respective associations.

The New Jersey green industry is diverse, fast-moving, and increasingly complex. Landscape professionals, designers, growers, garden centers, suppliers, and allied professionals are all navigating rising costs, workforce challenges, regulatory changes, and shifting customer expectations. One of the best ways industry professionals stay informed, connected, and resilient is through involvement in a strong trade association. Of course, the New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association (NJLCA) comes to mind. Still, I feel it is so important that I ask you to join and be active in any industry association, as long as it offers you the benefits you most need.

NJLCA represents the full breadth of New Jersey’s Green Industry, including landscape contractors, landscape architects, nurseries, sod growers, horticulturists, floriculture professionals, garden centers, and the companies that supply them. That broad representation matters. It reflects how interconnected the industry truly is and allows the association to address issues that affect businesses across the entire supply and service chain, not just one segment.

At its core, NJLCA functions as a professional community. Membership provides you with regular opportunities to interact with your peers who understand the realities of seasonal work, labor shortages, regulations, and the need to stay profitable while delivering high-quality results. Monthly membership meetings—

The NJLCA Today

By Gail Woolcott Executive Director

Why Membership in an Association Still Matters

open to members and their employees at no additional cost— combine education, networking, and practical discussion in an environment designed to share realworld experience, not sales pitches. Over time, those conversations often become one of the most valuable resources our members rely on. I truly wish there was a way to give a dollar amount to those relationships and the networking I see happening at each event, but they are simply invaluable.

Education is another pillar of NJLCA membership. The association offers timely technical and management seminars, recertification opportunities, safety talks, and roundtable discussions that focus on current challenges and trends. Topics range from regulatory compliance and credit courses to contract writing, technology, workforce management, and business operations. These programs are designed to be relevant to companies of all sizes, from owneroperators to multi-crew operations.

Just as important is access to information. NJLCA keeps members informed about legislative and regulatory developments that affect how they do business in New Jersey. Through email alerts, newsletters, social media updates, and membership meetings, members receive clear, up-to-the-

minute updates on laws, proposed regulations, and industry-specific issues—often before they become urgent problems. Being part of a unified coalition also gives members a collective voice. NJLCA actively advocates on behalf of the industry, working to ease compliance burdens and push back against legislation that could unintentionally harm green industry businesses in both Trenton and Washington DC.

Membership also provides tangible business benefits. NJLCA offers access to exclusive savings programs, including its Health Benefits Trust for medical, dental, prescription, and life insurance, as well as a streamlined 401(k) solution designed specifically for green industry employers. These programs can help businesses control costs, stay compliant, and offer competitive benefits—a truly important factor in employee retention these days.

Marketing and credibility are quieter, but equally meaningful, advantages. Members can promote their affiliation with a respected statewide association, reinforcing professionalism and commitment to industry standards. NJLCA provides positive press relations, referrals to member businesses, a free listing in the annual membership directory, and opportunities for recognition through the

Landscape Achievement Awards program. These awards highlight craftsmanship, innovation, and professionalism, while helping elevate the public perception of the industry as a whole.

We also understand that strong professional relationships are built outside the classroom. Social events such as the Golf Outing, Holiday Gala, mixers, and informal gatherings give members a chance to connect in relaxed settings. Volunteer and community service initiatives—such as our annual service project and other outreach programs—allow members to give back while reinforcing the industry’s value to the broader community.

For newer professionals, membership provides guidance and mentorship. For established business owners, it offers perspective, collaboration, and a way to stay engaged with where the industry is heading. Peer group discussions and roundtables often surface solutions to common challenges faster than working alone ever could.

Ultimately, NJLCA membership is not about a single benefit or event. It is about belonging to a professional network that helps businesses adapt, improve, and endure, to make money and to save money. In an industry shaped by regulation,

weather, labor markets, and changing customer expectations, having access to education, advocacy, shared knowledge, and a trusted community can make the difference between simply getting through the season and building a sustainable future.

Finally, supporting your industry is about more than individual success—it’s about ensuring the long-term health, credibility, and sustainability of the profession as a whole. When businesses invest time and resources into their industry association, they help strengthen a collective voice that can educate policymakers, influence fair, and practical regulations, and communicate the true value of the work being done every day across New Jersey. Industry support also helps establish and uphold professional standards, promote ethical practices, and elevate public perception, which benefits everyone operating in the field. By contributing to an association like the NJLCA, members are not only protecting their own businesses but also helping to build a stronger, more informed, and more respected Green Industry for future generations.

Editor’s Note: Gail Woolcott is the Executive Director for the New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association. Gail was presented with a community service award from the Borough of Fairview, New Jersey for her assistance in leading the 9-11 Memorial Park project and the Legislative Champion of the Year award from the Federation of Employers and Workers of America. She can be reached at 201-703-3600 or by emailing gwoolcott@ njlca.org.

Garden State’s New Law: NJ Invasive Species Management Act

Right before Governor Phil Murphy left office on January 20, 2026, he signed the New Jersey Invasive Species Management Act (S1029/A4137), creating the state’s first comprehensive framework to tackle harmful invasive plants. The new law establishes a permanent New Jersey Invasive Species Council, restricts the sale

and spread of designated invasive species and gives growers and land managers realistic timelines to adapt to these changes.

The new law reflects more than two decades of deliberation and planning among policymakers, scientists, land managers, agricultural interests, and environmental organizations, and brings New Jersey into

closer alignment with neighboring states that have already adopted invasive species regulations. Implementation will unfold over several years through agency rulemaking.

The new law also directs the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to develop a website that includes the updated list of prohibited

invasive species with information about how to identify the species, best practices for mitigation, and, where possible, alternative native species options. The intent is to support informed decision-making by homeowners, landscapers, municipalities, and land managers; not simply to restrict plant choices.

Congressman Tom Kean Jr.

Secures $979,000 for Agricultural Educational and Training Center Improvements

The Agricultural Educational and Training Center project will improve existing facilities on a 22-acre parcel in Oxford owned by Warren County for the creation of the training center. While rural and suitable for small farms, Warren County is close to large population centers, providing a significant agricultural consumer base. Warren County Community College is working with the Northwest New Jersey Food Processing and Innovation (FPIC), a nonprofit organization in Oxford, on a plan to create a food processing center on the 22-acre parcel. The Warren County Community College Agricultural Educational and Training Center would serve as a location for training students from community colleges, vocational agriculture schools, and culinary institutes. This initiative would provide workforce development opportunities, improve access to fresh food, reduce processing capacity limitations for farmers, and provide food options currently unavailable locally.

Tom Kean, Jr. is serving his second term in Congress representing New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District. In the 119th Congress, Tom serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee. As the representative for more than 775,000 New Jersey residents, Tom is focused on keeping costs low for families, improving access to care, supporting a robust and reliable infrastructure, boosting innovation at home, and helping students reach their top potential.

In the Chef’s Corner

By Andy Lagana Chef

Carrot Ginger Soup to Warm You Up

Hello, Gardener News readers. Having braved some of the most severe cold spells in recent memory, it finally feels as though we are in the home stretch of a long, frigid season. While most of us are eager to get outdoors for some fresh air and sunshine, Mother Nature likely has a few more chilly surprises in store for us before spring arrives.

To bridge the gap between the winter frost and spring thaw, I’ve found there is nothing quite as restorative as a bowl of Carrot Ginger soup. It’s a favorite in my house for when the temperatures dip down and some liquid restoration is in order.

There is an appealing quality with a bowl of soup that balances zest and spice. The warmth of fresh ginger meets the floral notes of orange zest, creating a vibrant flavor that feels both cozy and energizing. Adding a final touch of chives or fennel brings a brightness to the carrots. In a world of complicated recipes, this soup stands out as a testament to simplicity—it is nourishing, easy to prepare, and a staple for any busy weeknight.

You can make this soup in less than an hour with prep time included. I personally think this soup works best when it is puréed until perfectly smooth. This is best achieved using an upright blender, but if you use an immersion blender, just keep working at it until the soup is as smooth as you can make it. Also, I use chicken stock in this recipe, but you can easily use vegetable stock for a full vegetarian option.

Editor’s

Measured

ingredients needed are 3 tablespoons butter, 1 1/2 pounds carrots (6 to 7 large carrots) - peeled and sliced thin, 2 cups white or yellow onion - chopped, salt, 1 teaspoon of ginger – minced, 2 cups of either chicken or vegetable stock, 2 cups water, 3 large strips of zest from a n orange, chopped chives, parsley, and dill or fennel for garnish. Prepare by sautéing onions and carrots. Melt the butter in a soup pot over medium heat and cook the onions and carrots, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften, about 5 to 8 minutes. Do not let the onions or carrots brown. Sprinkle a teaspoon of salt over the carrots and onions as they cook. Add stock and water, ginger, and strips of orange zest. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the carrots soften, about 20 minutes. Remove the strips of orange zest. It’s easy to forget this step, and if you do and happen to purée the soup with the strips of zest still in it, the soup may be too bitter for your taste.

Purée the soup with a stick blender, or working in small batches, pour the soup into a blender and purée until completely smooth. Only fill the blender bowl a third full with the hot liquid and keep one hand pressing down on the cap of the blender to keep it from popping off. Add more salt to taste. Keep in mind that you will need more salt if you are using homemade unsalted stock or unsalted butter. Garnish with chopped chives, parsley, or

fennel fronds.

Carrot ginger soup pairs best with light, savory proteins that complement its sweet and spicy notes. Some ideas that work well are roasted chickpeas, grilled or roasted chicken breasts, garlic butter shrimp, baked cod, or smoked turkey. These are all tasty ways to enhance the soup.

Excellent wine pairings for carrot ginger soup emphasize aromatics, acidity, and a touch of sweetness to balance the ginger’s heat and the carrot’s natural sugar. Top choices include whites like Gewurztraminer, Riesling, or Viognier, as well as crisp options like Chenin Blanc or a dry sparkling wine like Cava.

Selecting a dessert to follow this vibrant carrot ginger soup is about finding harmony between spice and sweetness. To maintain the zing of the first course, consider citrus-based treats like a zesty lemon tart or a delicate orange soufflé, both of which highlight the citrus notes already in the soup. If you want a more soothing direction, creamy textures work wonders. Think of a velvety coconut tapioca with sun-ripened mango, a dense, rich cheesecake, or a vanilla-flecked panna cotta. For a final flourish, fruitbased choices like poached pears or a pineapple upsidedown cake bring a textured contrast to the meal. Whether you choose something tart, creamy, or light, these desserts provide the perfect encore to the warm, earthy spices of the ginger. Enjoy every bite!

Note: Andy Lagana is a Chef at Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, Sussex County, N.J. For more information on its culinary program, visit www.CSResort.com.

NORTHEASTERN ASSOCIATION OF STATE

The Northeastern Association of State Departments of Agriculture convenes the following 10 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

DELAWARE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

2026 Arbor Day Poster Contest Opens

The Delaware Forest Service is inviting students across the state to celebrate Arbor Day by participating in the 2026 Arbor Day Poster Contest, open to all public and private schools, homeschool groups and organized youth programs serving grades K–5. It provides a fun and creative way for students to celebrate Arbor Day in their classrooms.

This year’s theme, “Trees are Terrific…for People and Places!”, highlights the many ways trees support healthier, happier communities. Trees provide fresh oxygen to breathe, food to eat, and wood for countless everyday products. They offer shade that cools homes, streets, and parks, helping reduce energy use and create comfortable places for people to gather. Trees also improve emotional well-being, reduce stress, support wildlife, prevent soil erosion, and manage stormwater by absorbing excess rainwater.

People and trees share a strong connection. By planting, watering, and protecting trees and forests, communities help ensure a cleaner, greener, and more resilient environment for generations to come. From busy neighborhoods to quiet community forests, trees help create stronger and more enjoyable places to live.

Teachers and youth leaders are encouraged to register their classes to participate in the contest by Friday, March 6, using the online form at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScCxlO2QblindK1iaHCsfgf s9X-FAcTdXV5r6-f09-i_VyHqg/viewform

Poster submissions are due by Friday, March 20. Once registered, participants will receive additional contest details and updates from the Delaware Forest Service.

Arbor Day in Delaware is designated as Friday, April 24. The Arbor Day Poster Contest remains one of the largest youth conservation programs of its kind in the state, inspiring thousands of Delaware students each year to learn about trees and environmental stewardship.

For more information, please contact Ashley.Melvin@delaware.gov

NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Prestigious Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award

Mary Powers Nikola and Henry D. DuBois Jr. were honored during the Award Presentations at the State Agricultural Convention in Atlantic City for their long-time service to New Jersey agriculture and the agriculture community.

Dr. Mary Powers Nikola of Ocean County, New Jersey, has served the New Jersey agriculture industry for decades. Dr. Nikola most notably served as Director of the New Jersey Agricultural Leadership Development Program (1999–2012) under the New Jersey Agricultural Society, in partnership with the New Jersey Farm Bureau, New Jersey Department of Agriculture, and Rutgers University. Through her teaching, mentorship, and networking initiatives, she helped shape many of today’s agricultural leaders, professionals, farmers, and many other industry associates, who credit her guidance and mentorship as part of their success.

Henry D. DuBois Jr. of Salem County, New Jersey, began his agricultural career at the age of 15 — a journey that has spanned more than seven decades. A former President of the New Jersey State Board of Agriculture, Henry founded his own farm business, originally known as H&S DuBois Farm and now operating as DuBois’ Spring Brook Farms, which operated on more than 3,600 acres of New Jersey farmland. In 1983, he was honored as New Jersey’s Outstanding Young Farmer and received the Conservation Farmer Award for his commitment to soil and water resource preservation. The agricultural community is grateful for Mr. DuBois’ lifetime commitment to agriculture in the Garden State.

This award highlights the dedication and leadership that continue to strengthen New Jersey’s agricultural industry. The New Jersey Department of Agriculture and the State Board of Agriculture congratulate this year’s honorees and thank them for their; outstanding contributions to the Garden State’s farming community.

Nominations Being Accepted for 2026 AEM Leopold Conservation Award

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball announced applications are being accepted for New York State’s 2026 Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) Leopold Conservation Award. Presented in partnership with the Sand County Foundation, the annual award honors a farm and its nominating Soil and Water Conservation District for extraordinary achievement in environmental stewardship. In New York, the $10,000 award is presented in partnership with national sponsor American Farmland Trust and state partner Cornell Cooperative Extension.

Commissioner Ball said, “The prestigious New York AEM-Leopold Conservation Award recognizes farmers who are committed to protecting the environment and leaving the land better than how they found it through voluntary conservation of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. Our farmers, alongside their Soil and Water Conservation Districts, are working hard to implement on-farm, best management practices that are directly benefiting the environment and it’s a privilege for us at the Department to help highlight their work. I thank the Sand County Foundation for collaborating with us to host this award program and encourage all eligible farmers to contact their Soil and Water Conservation District to apply.”

County Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) apply for the AEM Leopold Conservation Award on behalf of farms. Eligible candidates successfully incorporate AEM best management practices into the management of their farm, assisting the farmer in meeting business and environmental goals. Applicants should demonstrate conservation leadership and outreach in the agricultural sector and be an inspiration to other farmers. Applications must be received by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets by May 15, 2026.

Nominations will be reviewed by an independent panel of conservation leaders. Interested candidates should contact their county Soil and Water Conservation District. Contact information for districts can be found at agriculture.ny.gov/ soil-and-water/soil-water-conservation-district-offices.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the Leopold Conservation Award recognizes landowners who inspire others to consider conservation opportunities on their land. In his influential 1949 book, “A Sand County Almanac,” Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Theapplicationcanbefoundatwww.sandcountyfoundation. org/ApplyLCA.

DEPARTMENTS OF AGRICULTURE NEWS

CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Connecticut Preserves 953 Acres of Farmland in 2025

Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg), working with federal and local partners, announces the permanent protection of 13 farm parcels totaling 953 acres in 2025. Since the Farmland Preservation Program began in 1978, Connecticut has safeguarded 455 farm parcels and 51,203 acres through the purchase of development rights (PDR) program, ensuring these lands remain dedicated to agriculture.

“Every farm parcel we preserve has its own story, and we are proud to work alongside landowners to keep these properties in agricultural production,” said Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “Our Farmland Preservation Unit has done an outstanding job working with farmers, landowners, and partners to protect the heritage of Connecticut farmland for future generations.”

Ten of the 13 farm parcels were preserved in collaboration with and received funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)-Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) program, which contributed $3 million in federal cost-share support. The average cost per acre rose from $5,500 in 2024 to $7,400 in 2025. Parcel sizes ranged from 21 acres to more than 140 acres, with the average size increasing from 63 acres to 73 acres.

“NRCS is pleased to partner with Connecticut farmers, landowners, towns, and the CT Department of Agriculture to protect our cropland and pastureland in perpetuity,” said Thomas L. Morgart, NRCS Connecticut State Conservationist. “The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) keeps working agricultural lands in working hands by limiting non-agricultural uses of these properties. Keeping farms and ranches in agriculture supports local economies and rural communities while providing benefits like open space and wildlife habitat.”

According to the latest American Farmland Trust PACE report, Connecticut ranks ninth nationally in total easements held, and 12th nationally in acreage preserved, ahead of West Virginia, North Carolina, Kentucky, and Virginia. Connecticut also tied for seventh in the number of easements recently acquired, more than California, Colorado, and Vermont.

For more information on the State of Connecticut’s Farmland Preservation Program, please visit https://portal.ct.gov/doag/land-use?language=en_US.

PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Pennsylvania Invests Nearly $7.1 Million to Ensure That 25 Farms, 1,905 Acres of Prime Farmland in 17 Counties Stay Farms Forever

Pennsylvania is investing nearly $7.1 million to purchase development rights for 1,905 acres on 25 farms in 17 counties, protecting them from future residential or commercial development.

“Farmland tells the story of Pennsylvania, of generations who worked the land, cared for its resources, and built communities that endure,” Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said. “In this America250 year, and through the 2025–26 budget, the Shapiro Administration is honoring that legacy by protecting our land, water, and soil, supporting the next generation of farmers, and investing in the innovation and infrastructure that will sustain Pennsylvania agriculture for generations to come.”

In 2025, Pennsylvania preserved 167 farms and 14,147 prime acres of farmland across the state, investing more than $50.1 million. These joint investments by state and local governments ensure that Pennsylvania farmers will have the primequality land they need to continue supporting families, communities, and jobs.

Through Pennsylvania’s Farmland Preservation Program, the state partners with local governments and nonprofits to purchase development rights to preserve farmland, ensuring a strong future for farming and food security. By selling development rights, farm owners ensure their farms remain in agricultural production and are never sold to developers.

Pennsylvania leads the nation in preserved farms. Since 1988, when voters statewide overwhelmingly supported creating the state’s Farmland Preservation Program, Pennsylvania has protected 6,673 farms and 662,940 acres in 58 counties from future development, investing more than $1.84 billion in state, county, and local funds.

Box Tree Moth Quarantine Issued in Massachusetts

Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) is announcing that the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) has established a quarantine for the invasive pest known as box tree moth for the entire state of Massachusetts, and has set conditions for the export of boxwood shrubs from the Commonwealth.

Through a Federal Order, USDA APHIS has added the entire state of Massachusetts to areas in the United States quarantined for box tree moth. Several counties in Ohio have also been added, and established quarantine zones in Michigan and New York have been expanded. Effective immediately, to prevent the spread of box tree moth to uninfested areas, boxwood plants may only be moved outside of Massachusetts by a business operating under a compliance agreement issued by

MDAR. The compliance agreement requires boxwoods to be inspected and treated regularly by trained nursery staff, and notification must be made to MDAR if box tree moth is found. Additionally, all exports must be accompanied by an authorized agricultural certificate. This quarantine covers all boxwood plants (Buxus species), plant parts, pieces, cuttings, clippings, debris, or any other portion of the plant, alive or dead, except for boxwood roping, wreaths, and other decorative items. The quarantine does not impact existing plantings of boxwoods, or boxwoods that are purchased to be planted in Massachusetts.

Nurseries and other growers and sellers wishing to export boxwoods out of Massachusetts must enter into a compliance agreement with MDAR.

Box tree moth Cydalima perspectalis is an invasive pest that feeds on the leaves of boxwood shrubs, popular

plants commonly used in landscaping. The caterpillars can cause complete defoliation, eventually killing the plant. Box tree moth was first found in Massachusetts in the summer of 2023, in Barnstable County. Box tree moth eggs are typically laid in gelatinous masses on the underside of boxwood leaves but may also be laid singly. Caterpillars can grow up to 1.5 inches long, and are yellowish green with a black head, and long black stripes and spots that reach from the head to the end of the body. The caterpillars create pockets of webbing within the boxwood shrubs to wall themselves off from predators. When they are ready to morph into adult moths, they form small green pupae. Adults typically have white wings with a dark brown border but can sometimes be all brown with just a small white streak on each wing.

Please report sightings to mass.gov/box-tree-moth.

Highlights from the New Jersey State Board of Agriculture, the 2026 Annual State Agricultural Convention, and the Northeast Agricultural Expo

LEFT: Entrance sign to the 2026 Annual State Agricultural Convention. The meeting focused on developing and setting a policy agenda for the industry over the coming year through the resolutions process. The convention was held in conjunction with the Northeast Agricultural Expo. This partnership offers more opportunities for delegates and guests to learn about issues and the latest technologies, agricultural practices, and opportunities throughout the industry. This is the largest annual gathering of farmers and commodity groups, along with a strong contingent of Rutgers officials and professors.

LEFT: Gardener News columnist Brian Schilling, left, Gail Woolcott, center, and Joe Atchison III met up after the New Jersey State Board of Agriculture meeting on Wednesday, January 21 in Atlantic City at Harrah’s Resort & Waterfront Conference Center. The meeting was held the day before the 2026 Annual State Agricultural Convention, also held at Harrah’s Resort & Waterfront Conference Center on January 22 & 23, 2026.

ABOVE: The meeting room is ready for the 2026 Annual State Agricultural Convention Delegates from around the state. Members of the State Board of Agriculture are elected by delegates from the agriculture community to the legislatively established, annual State Agricultural Convention, then recommended to the Governor for appointment to the Board with the approval of the State Senate. Farmer-members of the State Fish and Game Council are also selected at the convention. The State Board of Agriculture is the ruling body that oversees the operations of the New Jersey Department of Agriculture. The delegates elect a State Board, and the State Board oversees the department. Convention delegates also debate resolutions that set the policy path for the department.

ABOVE: Entrance sign to the Northeast Agricultural Expo. The Northeast Agricultural Expo opened on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. Over 800 New Jersey farmers walked through the doors this year — and that number does not include the vendors or the speakers. The expo featured exhibits and displays from many of the industry’s suppliers and business associates. In addition, a wide variety of educational sessions on various topics, the latest ideas in agricultural practices, and much more was offered. The expo was held in conjunction with the 2026 Annual State Agricultural Convention.

I recently attended the Mid Atlantic Fruit and Vegetable Conference in Hershey, Pennsylvania. This conference has both a large trade show that caters to fruit and vegetable growers, as well as three days of educational sessions on a host of topics.

These topics ranged from the more traditional subjects such as “What’s New in Peach Varieties” and “Bacterial Disease Control in Tomatoes” to “Preparing for a Visit from ICE.” One of the sessions that I decided to sit in on was called “Using AI to Make Marketing Easier.”

Maybe I am somewhat behind the times when it comes to being up on the latest technological trends, but “Artificial Intelligence”, or “AI” for short, is not brand new to agriculture. For example, I have a weed identification app on my phone where all I need to do is take a picture of a weed and it tells me what it is. On the research side of agriculture, AI is used all of the time in isolating and sequencing different genetic traits and to enhance predictive analytics for crop characteristics such

On many occasions I have considered myself fortunate to not be a plant, especially during March! With weather that can quickly change from balmy to bitterly cold and snowy, March can be challenging!

This is especially true for herbaceous plants with elegant evergreen foliage, such as Saxifraga stolonifera. Commonly known as Strawberry Begonia, it is hard to believe its delicate foliage has the stamina to endure the rath of March, but endure it does!

If you are not familiar with this native of China, Japan, and Korea, it is not surprising – Saxifraga stolonifera is more frequently sold as a houseplant than a hardy perennial! A member of its own family or Saxifragaceae, Saxifraga is a large genus with roughly 470 species found throughout the northern hemisphere. The genus was named and described in 1753 by the Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus (1707-1778), although he credited the French botanist Joseph Pitton De Tournefort (1656-1708) for creating the name. The name was crafted from the Latin Saxum or Rock and Frangere for to break, inspired by the penchant for members of this genus to inhabit rocky terrain where they seem to

The Town Farmer

By Peter Melick Agricultural Producer

Fake It Until You Make It

as disease resistance, drought resistance, etcetera. And heck, I even wrote this column once (and only once!) using Chat GPT.

But the presentation on AI that I attended focused more on the use of AI to enhance marketing materials such as social media posts and website design. The presenter demonstrated how easy it would be to use AI generated content and insert it into your farm’s promotional materials. And if there was one thing that I learned from this presentation was that I am glad that I am not a graphic designer, as it appears as if those jobs may soon be obsolete. Anyway, the presenter went on and on about how easy it was and how helpful this

would be and to be honest, half of the stuff that he said went right over my head, plus it was almost time for lunch. But this is cutting edge technology, and every other industry is already using these applications, and we can’t afford to fall further and further behind, or we are going to be taken over by the Chinese…. So, I buckled down and tried to focus.

And then it was time for questions. The first question that was asked was by a woman who said that she had a new farm and had only been in business for a year or so. She stated that during their first season, they had a lousy crop of pumpkins. And this was a problem because they wanted to promote their farm through

social media for the upcoming season but did not have any good pictures or videos because their first crop had been so bad. She wanted to know whether it would be ethical to use AI to enhance pictures of their farm so that it appeared as if their first crop of pumpkins had been a good one. In other words, would it be alright to superimpose AI generated images of abundant and nicelooking pumpkins as well as happy families enjoying a day in the country, onto pictures or video of their farm? The presenter stated that it would be legal because it was their farm. He did not answer the ethical question, however. Maybe I am a little oldschool, but it doesn’t sound too

Morris County Park Commission

By Bruce Crawford Horticultural Manager

Smitten by March Stamina

shatter rocks.

It is thought the plant was first obtained and brought back to the Netherlands by Dutch Traders in the early to mid-18th Century, where the plant was invalidly described in 1775 by the Dutch botanist Nicolaas Meerburgh (1734-1714). Somehow, the plant was shared with the English Botanist and Entomologist William Curtis (1746-1790), who properly described the plant a year earlier in 1774. The species name of stolonifera describes how the plant spreads by short horizontal stems called stolons. The red stolons bear a small plantlet at the tip that ultimately takes root and allows the colony to expand. The rounded foliage loosely resembles that of a Begonia and, combined with the similar ability of strawberries to

spread via stolons, the common name of Strawberry Begonia came to be known!

The foliage of Begonia is certainly attractive, yet I find that of this Saxifrage to be even more beguiling! The 1-4” diameter leaves are arranged in rosettes, appearing on 2-8” long petioles or leaf stems. The upper leaf surface is light green with showy, silverywhite veins radiating outward from the base. The leaf margins are often blushed red while the undersides of the leaf are a rich, deep red. Further enhancing the display are short silvery hairs along the petioles, as well as over the upper and lower leaf surfaces that reduce moisture loss. As the temperatures drop during fall, the upper leaf surface usually develops a red blush from the buildup of

ethical to me. It’s one thing to embellish or exaggerate the size of a crop a little bit, but it’s quite something else to insert someone else’s pumpkins and happy customers into your promotional materials. Then again, this is like the wild West. There are relatively few rules, and next to no ethical standards. So, what comes next? If these types of ads are allowed to proliferate, will we be able to believe anything that we don’t see in real life? Or will people start to see through these artificially generated ads and not believe anything anymore? Think Spring!

Editor’s Note: Peter Melick is co-owner of Melick’s Town Farm in Oldwick and a 10th-generation New Jersey farmer. Peter is Mayor of Tewksbury Township, Hunterdon County, NJ. He also served as a director for the New Jersey Farm Bureau and is a past president of the New Jersey State Board of Agriculture. Peter has also been featured on NJN, News 12 New Jersey and on the Fox Business Network.

protective Anthocyanins.

Although the plants rarely produce seeds, the 1-1¼” long flowers still provide an attractive airy touch. Anywhere from several to 60 white flowers float 12-18” above the plants on loose, open panicles from late April through June. The flowers consist of five petals with the lower two petals roughly four times longer and wider than the overarching three, often reaching up to ¾” in length. They always remind me of the dangling mustache of Yosemite Sam! The upper three petals are nearly ¼” in length and can be pure white or blushed pink with thin red lines radiating outward from the petals’ central axis. Despite the complexity and beauty of the flower, Strawberry Begonia has simple growing

needs. It will happily grow in a north facing rock garden or a wooded glade where the stolons allow the plants to reach around two feet in diameter. Soils should be well-drained with the pH ranging between 6-8. Plants are hardy in zones 6-9 and should you live in colder locations, the plants make wonderful houseplants! For stunning selections, consider ‘Maroon Beauty’ with its red foliage marked with silvery-white and green veins or ‘Tricolor’ for its green, pink, and white foliage! I first saw this plant growing on the north side of a home in the rain shadow of the roof soffits above and I was instantly smitten. I was even more amazed when I learned it was initially an overgrown houseplant! No doubt, you too will become smitten by this March stalwart!

Editor’s Note: Bruce Crawford is a lover of plants since birth, is the Manager of Horticulture for the Morris County Parks Commission, and a Past President of the Garden State Gardens Consortium. He can be reached at BCrawford@ morrisparks.net

International Year of the Woman Farmer

beyond. She also enjoys sharing her experiences as a woman farmer and is delighted to discuss the misperceptions of women in agriculture with the farm’s visitors.

The U.S. introduced a resolution declaring 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer with 123 countries serving as co-sponsors. The UN General Assembly adopted it May 2, 2024, marking a global commitment to empowering and recognizing the contributions of women in agriculture.

The United Nations’ designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer gives the global community a chance to highlight that fact and celebrate the incredibly important role women play in ensuring global food security.

According to the most recent Census of Agriculture, women make up more than one-third of all U.S. farm operators and are increasingly leading in farm management, agribusiness, research, and advocacy.

The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture along with members of an International Year of the Woman Farmer working group launched an information hub dedicated to celebrating and advancing women in agriculture. The site debuted Oct. 15, the International Day of Rural Women, to highlight and connect efforts supporting women in agriculture worldwide.

The information hub, which can be found at www.nasda.org, serves as a central online platform to elevate women’s stories and drive action in

(Continued from page 1)

support of women farmers globally, recognizing that supporting them helps advance the entire agriculture industry. You can also find a National Women in Agriculture Study led by the American Farm Bureau Federation at that link.

“The International Year of the Woman Farmer provides an opportunity to honor and empower women shaping the future of agriculture,” said NASDA President Amanda Beal. “Through collaboration with these key stakeholders in the agriculture industry, we can highlight the achievements and challenges of women farmers while building resources that can inspire meaningful change.”

According to a USDA report, in 2022 the U.S. had 1.2 million female producers, representing 36% of the nation’s agricultural producers.

This year’s American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) International Year of the Woman Farmer summit is scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C., June 1–3, 2026. The summit is an annual event hosted by the AFBF which brings together women farmers, ranchers and agribusiness professionals to develop as leaders, enhance their women in agriculture network and grow as strong advocates for agriculture. The summit will empower, equip, and connect attendees through skill-building sessions, high-impact networking, and advocacyfocused programming. All women in agriculture are invited to attend the summit in the nation’s capital for an experience that honors their impact and fuels

Here Comes Spring!

For those in the Northern Hemisphere, astronomically, the first official day of Spring is the vernal equinox, which falls on Friday, March 20, in 2026.

their leadership journey. Learn more at www.fb.org. You can help celebrate the International Year of the Woman Farmer in the Garden State by taking a moment to thank the women farmers in your life and shout out their farms.

By the way, did you know the first farmers in the Garden State were women.

The legacy of agriculture in the Garden State begins with the state’s earliest and longest inhabitants, the Lenni Lenape Native Americans. Women were the primary agriculturalists in Lenape communities, tending the land while men hunted and fished.

Right now, Rebecca is planning the farm’s 300th anniversary in 2028 with her dad, George; her mom, Norma; and with her brothers, John and Pete.

Gardener News now salutes Rebecca for her vital role in American agriculture—contributing through advocacy, education, entrepreneurship, leadership, and outreach. The Premier Gardening Monthly Newspaper Number 275 Published Monthly

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Editor’s Note: Tom Castronovo is executive editor and publisher of Gardener News. Tom’s lifelong interest in gardening and passion for agriculture, environmental stewardship, gardening, horticulture and landscaping, led to the founding of the Gardener News, which germinated in April 2003 and continues to bloom today. He is also dedicated to providing inspiration and education to the agricultural, environmental, horticultural, and landscaping communities through this newspaper and GardenerNews.com.

Website: www.GardenerNews.com E-Mail: Mail@GardenerNews.com Staff

Executive Editor/Publisher ..... Tom Castronovo

Art Director ................. Susan Kessel

Tom Castronovo

Gail Woolcott

Brian Schilling

March 2026 Columnists

Peter Melick

Bruce Crawford

Andy Lagana

Joe Atchison III

Hubert Ling

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