The Official Publication of the Indiana Nursery & Landscape Association
Indiana Nursery & Landscape News Volume 77 • Issue 3
May/June 2017
www.inla1.org
12 for 12!
An IAH Success Story Story on page 23
The Irrigation Issue
Will You Be SMART in 2017? Winter Wrap-up A Custom Approach to 40 Years of Growth
Follow us!
New member benefits 8
IDNR Spotlight 10
Certification News 22
2017 Turf and Landscape Field Day July 11, 2017 | W.H. Daniel Turf Center | West Lafayette, IN This one-day event presents Purdue University’s latest turfgrass research, New for 2017: landscape research, and education. An afternoon Attendees will learn about current topics Green Industry concerning the green industry, as well Safety Course! as see displays and demos of the latest management tools. This event provides a great networking opportunity with over 40 industry vendors available in the trade show. The 2017 Turf and Landscape Field Day will again combine the expertise of the Purdue University Turf Program and the Extension Specialists from the Departments of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Agronomy, Pathology, Entomology, and Forestry. This provides the basis of the educational tracts offered — Lawn & Sports, Golf, and Landscape.
Exhibit at the Field Day Trade Show Interested vendors should know this event successfully draws crowds of 475 to 600. The Field Day is a great opportunity to get noticed by Indiana green industry professionals. Excellent sponsorships for added exposure for your company are still available. Visit www.mrtf.org for exhibitor and sponsorship opportunity information or contact Tammy Goodale at tgoodale@purdue.edu or 765-494-8039.
Plan to Attend! Pre-registration (includes lunch): Members $45.00 Non-members $75.00 Onsite registration (lunch not included): Members $65.00 Non-members $95.00 Become a new member of the Midwest Regional Turf Foundation (MRTF) before the Field Day and one person will get free admittance and lunch for the day’s events! Call Tammy Goodale at 765-494-8039 for more information. Visit www.mrtf.org for registration form or contact Tammy Goodale, tgoodale@ purdue.edu, or 765-494-8039.
Sponsored in part by Midwest Regional Turf Foundation, Purdue University Turf Program and Extension, and the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture.
We hope you can join us on July 11 for the 2017 Purdue Turf and Landscape Field Day.
Indiana Nursery & Landscape News Volume 77 • Issue 3 May/June 2017
Contents The Irrigation Issue BUSINESS
14 Will You Be SMART in 2017? Indiana Nursery & Landscape News is the official publication of the Indiana Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc. (INLA) and is published bimonthly. Indiana Nursery & Landscape Association 7915 S. Emerson Ave., Suite 247 Indianapolis, IN 46237 Phone: 317-889-2382 Toll Free: 800-443-7336 www.inla1.org Publisher Rick Haggard, Executive Director, INLA 765-366-4994 • haggard.rick@att.net Editor and Ad Sales Mary Breidenbach, Cumulus Design 317-757-8634 • mary@ecumulus.com Advertising Rates: Media Kit available online at www.inla1.org
14
Education
18 Winter Wrap-up: Featuring a 38% Warmer Than Normal January Business
20 A Custom Approach to 40 Years of Growth Member Highlight: Indiana Irrigation Co.
18
Community
21 Earn Irrigation Association CEUs While Listening to the Radio
Copy Deadline: First of the month preceding the month of the issue. Reprint permission granted if source is indicated. Views expressed in articles or editorials do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the association or its directors, but are those of the writer. Trade names used in articles are for identification only. No discrimination is intended toward similar products and the INLA does not endorse the use of the products mentioned. Subscriptions: Included with membership to the INLA. Nonmembers: $36.00 per year (six issues per year). For questions regarding subscriptions, please call INLA at 317-889-2382.
Plus More! 2
President’s Message
4
Executive Director’s Message
6
Calendar
8
New INLA Member Benefits
10
IDNR Spotlight: Getting to the Root of the Matter
20
22
Certification & Education Certification Calendar Registration form for IAH Review & Test on July 19, 2017 at Designscape 23 12 for 12! An IAH Success Story 24 IAH Quiz! Earn CEUs 26 George Brenn’s IAH Study Guide Cover Photo: Photo courtesy Hubinger Landscaping Corporation.
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Advertiser List Classifieds Toolbox Talks
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President’s Message As I sit down to write this letter I imagine that your business is crazy busy just as mine is! Spring is on the way out and summer is on the way in! The famous saying April showers bring May flowers has become a reality this year and we all are looking for a normal and uneventful summer as far as weather goes. I am sure most of you have been busting at the seams quoting maintenance work and estimating those landscaping jobs and soon will have the summer booked up.
Brian Franco
With all the upcoming work we have to get done, how do you find the right people to get it all done? Many of us do depend on the government H2B program for a qualified labor force, and of course we never know if we are going to get those workers since there are no guarantees. I want to personally thank John Wolski for heading up the Washington DC fly-in to speak for a change in the way the Returning Working Exemption is currently being processed. Many if not all have hopefully received your workforce for this year, but I feel many of you would like to see a permanent solution instead of repeating a process that is broken. I am hoping John will be able to write a recap of how the day went and what expectations can come from it. In this issue we are happy to announce the new INLA member benefits (page 8). Membership Chair Kim Glass and her team made this a priority this year and delivered a nice mix of benefits. Thanks of course goes to all the companies offering these benefits to the INLA. We appreciate their support of our association and a strong Indiana green industry. With summertime approaching, we can expect dry weather and the need to water. In this issue we look at the new SMART technology for both irrigation and landscape lighting (page 14). Kyle Daniel of Purdue has written an article that reviews how the winter weather is affecting us today (page 18). We also have a the member business highlight which features longtime INLA member Indiana Irrigation Company (page 20). In the Certification & Educaiton section, check out the story 12 for 12! on page 23. Hubinger Landscaping has much to be proud about in this fantastic IAH success story. Finally, don’t forget to save the date for our upcoming Summer Meeting on August 3 and 4. While details are being solidified, we do know it will be held in southern Indiana and we’re sure to have another fun and memorable gathering. I wish you all a safe and profitable summer. Brian Franco, INLA President bfranco@francoland.com
2017 INLA Officers Brian Franco President Franco Landscaping, Inc. PO Box 34156, Indianapolis, IN 46234 317-858-3858; Fax 317-858-8906 bfranco@francoland.com Dave LaFara, President-Elect Tiffany Lawn & Garden Supply 4931 Robison Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46268 317-228-4900; Fax 317-228-4910 david.lafara@tiffanylawn.com Dean Ricci, Vice President Ricci’s Landscape Management, Inc. 502 Norbeh Drive, Hebron, IN 46341 219-996-2682; Fax 219-996-2680 dean@rlminc.com Brian Julius, Past President Walnut Ridge Nursery & Garden Center 2108 Hamburg Pike Jeffersonville, IN 47130 812-288-6691; Fax 812-288-1580 bjulius@walnutridge.com Rick Haggard, Executive Director & Publisher 3596 Linkside Court, Carmel, IN 46032 Office: 800-443-7336 Cell: 765-366-4994; Fax: 317-889-3935 haggard.rick@att.net • www.inla1.org
Board of Directors Jim Calvin (2018) Calvin Landscape • 317-247-6316 jim@calvinlandscape.com Kyle Daniel (2018) Purdue University, Nursery & Landscape Extension 765-494-7621 • daniel38@purdue.edu Kim Glass (2017) M.J. Schuetz Agency • 317-639-5679 kglass@mjsis.com Gabriel Gluesenkamp (2019) Designscape Horticultural Services 812-988-8900 • gabrielg@designhort.com Mark O’Brien (2017) Cardno • 574-586-2412 mark.obrien@cardno.com Bob Wasson (2018) Wasson Nursery and Garden Center 765-759-9000 • bob@wassonnursery.com Shaun Yeary (2019) Greendell Landscape Solutions 317-996-2826 syeary@greendelllandscape.com
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Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
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Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
3
Executive Director’s Message Welcome to the latest ramblings from your Executive Director. As in the last issue I will be touching on several assorted topics, and if you feel so inclined to reach out to me personally feel free to do so at any given time.
Rick Haggard
Local vocational/career centers I have been wondering lately how many of our members utilize their local vocational/career centers or local FFA chapters as a recruitment tool for seeking employees? How many of you are involved on advisory boards or sponsor events at these institutions? PLEASE send me any information so I can write a support letter, and make them aware that there is a need for their programs in our industry. I recently had the opportunity to attend another advisory council meeting at a local vocational/career center on the west side of Indianapolis. The career center is called Area 31 located on the Ben Davis High School campus. The program is led by Mark White, a very passionate teacher and former industry employee of Brightview, formerly Brickman Landscaping Services, where he served as a landscape supervisor. His program is offering dual credits, 3 per semester for a total of 6, through Vincennes University. The program offers the following: • Basic landscape skills and career opportunities • Practice landscaping, study weed problems and control, non-pathogenic problems and diseases, and management of these problems • Identify plants for landscaping and turf management • Analyze growth characteristics of grass species used in lawns in the Midwest and Great Lakes areas • Activities occur in the landscape lab, in the adjacent greenhouse, and outdoors • Students may also participate in FFA or SkillsUSA events He has recently had a difficult time in acquiring students to enroll in his program and this year had a total of 6 students, 3 in the morning and 3 in the afternoon sessions. Next year, based on recruiting numbers, it appears he is scheduled to have about 16 students. However, the programs themselves are lacking apparent support from our industry. Upon discussions with Mark, I let him know that this is where some of our future employees are going to come from, and by being a part of this program they will garner the basic knowledge applicable to many jobs in our industry. It became very apparent to me, after talking with Mark, that in order to engage the youth of today it must start at an earlier age than their junior or senior year in high school. He is planning to make presentations at each of the participating schools’ junior high/middle school classes. Since “green” seems to be what the current
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Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
generation has an interest in, I told him to use a tag line I heard from a member, “We were green before green was cool.” I ask all members to get involved with any of these programs if so moved.
H-2B program Next on my list — more on a federal level regarding the H-2B program and generations of labor force. I am aware that several of our members were on the edge of their seats, nervously awaiting confirmation that they would be receiving their returning workers as part of the H-2B program. A few were down to the last hours, and one company (that I am aware of ) did not receive his confirmation nor employees. John Wolski of Ski Landscape and David George representing Engledow, voiced Indiana’s concern on a scheduled fly-in with AmericanHort, to Washington, D.C. on April 26, 2017. The purpose of this joint appeal to our senators and members of the House is to seek a resolution to make the H-2B process more streamlined and to relate how important this type of workforce is to many in our industry. Several individuals I have talked with would like to grow their businesses, but one of the leading reason, if not the largest negative reason, for not expanding is the capability to have enough labor. An interesting stat that I was totally shocked to learn is that about 30% of capable men between the ages of 30 and 50 years of age are not employed. Another interesting fact: in 1995 the Baby Boomers made up 49% of the workforce, but in 2015 that was down to 29%. In 1995 Gen Xers made up 31% and in 2015 they were 34%. In 2015 Millennials comprised 34%, and were the largest workforce. For those who are not sure who composes these generations, here they are: • • • •
Generation Z (Post Millennials): born 1998 - ??? Millennials: born 1981-1997 Gen X: born 1965-1980 Baby Boomers: born 1946-1964 (comprised largest workforce from 1995-2015) • The Silent Generation (Silentists): born 1928-1945
Final thoughts Now for my last and final thoughts; as they always say end anything you say or do on at least one positive note. I could actually have a few positive, but I would like to share these two for now. First is regarding the IAH program, with the test and review sessions hosted by Hubinger’s scoring a perfect 12 out of 12 passing the initial certification. From what I know Hubinger’s scheduled excellent review sessions, with 1.5-hour study time each week over a six-week period, plus created crossword puzzles to correlate between botanical and common names of plants. Very progressive and impressive! (See page 23 for complete story.) Since July of 2016 there have been
Now’s the time to
approximately 135 individuals register for the IAH study materials …WOW!
document,
Next on my list of positives is the number of businesses that have expanded or renovated their current operations, mainly in the retail sector. Nothing makes me more excited than to see our members’ successes by way of renovation or expansion. The first operation I saw was the newly renovated retail garden center and greenhouses at Schneider Nursery in Seymour. While still a picturesque setting, the retail facility offers the nuances of modern lifestyles. The next two are both on the north side of Indianapolis. The first is Sundown Gardens’ relocation from their old address on Old Meridian in Carmel to their new home just southwest of Grand Park in Westfield, located just west of Spring Mill Road on 186th Street. The other is Wasson Nursery’s newest expansion in Fishers, just west of Olio Road on 126th Street. It is really inspiring to see expansion in our industry after a few years of just trying to survive!
document, document! Remember to take before and after photos of your projects this year, so you can add them to your INLA Green Excellence Award submission. Submissions are due November 1, 2017.
before
Photos: Corressell Landscape winner 2016 Award of Excellence Hardscape Residential D/B under $50,000
after
Keep It Green,
Green Excellence Award program information is at www.inla1.org
Rick Haggard, INLA Excutive Director haggard.rick@att.net, 765-366-4994 (cell)
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Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
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1/22/16 10:18 AM
INLA 2017 Summer Tour save the date Aug 3 & 4 southern Indiana
CALENDAR May 2017 15
INEF Scholarship Application Deadline Go to www.inla1.org to download an application.
16 / 18 Native Warm Season Grass Establishment and Management May 16: West Lafayette, IN // May 18: Farmland, IN The instructors will take a common-sense approach from planning, site preparation, and planning through to maintaining and improving established stands. Classroom sessions with field tours and activities. Information: https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/calendar/ Contact: Jarred Brooke, jmbrooke@purdue.edu or Brian MacGowan, macgowan@purdue.edu
June 2017 22
Green Industry Alliance (GIA) Golf Outing Carmel, IN • Twin Lakes Golf Club www.greenindustryalliance.com
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INLA Active Membership Dues Deadline Invoices will be sent in May.
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IAH Recertification Deadline Reminders have been mailed, or go to www.inla1.org to check your active status and recertification date.
Details coming soon!
July 2017 11
Growing High Quality Plants, People, and Relationships
Custom Growing Pre-Pricing Services
SERVING GARDEN CENTERS AND LANDSCAPERS
15–18 Cultivate’17 Columbus, OH • Greater Columbus Convention Center Sponsored by AmericanHort, Cultivate’17 is the largest all-industry trade show in North America. www.cultivate17.org 19
IAH Test and Review Designscape, Nashville, Indiana 9:00 am – Review / 11:00 am – Test (initial & masters) Registration: Contact INLA at 317-889-2382 or 800-443-7336
27
MRTF Lawn Care Diagnostics Training West Lafayette, IN • Daniel Turf Center, Purdue University • www.mrtf.org
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Purdue Turf and Landscape Field Day West Lafayette, IN • Daniel Turf Center This one-day event presents Purdue’s latest research and education. Available CCHs = TBD www.mrtf.org
Stay connected to INLA between issues. Sign up for the INLA monthly eNewsletter at www.inla1.org.
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You will receive: Latest notices, the digital version of the magazine, reminders for events, and much more.
Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
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Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
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2/28/17 3:14 PM
New INLA Member Benefits In an attempt to make your membership of greater value to you and your company, the Membership Committee is happy to present the new INLA member benefits. While we hope you find INLA membership valuable for all the education, business, and networking opportunities, I think you’ll agree it sure doesn’t hurt to have a few perks. We are grateful for the many companies both new and returning (M.J. Schuetz, Sunbelt Rentals, and Littler) that have created some very outstanding offers for the INLA membership. Be sure to take advantage of these offers today and make contact with these businesses. They support the INLA and they support a strong Indiana green industry. We hope to keep adding benefits throughout the year and will announce them in the magazine, on the website, and in the eNewsletter as they come available. Have a great year and enjoy the new benefits! Sincerely, Kim Glass, INLA Membership Committee Chair
10% off any new purchases or calibrations Accurate Laser Systems Contact: Bill Rawn, 317-714-2273 brawn@accuratelasersystems.com
Buy an Exmark riding mower and receive $150 off a Stihl or Echo product. Limit one mower. Offer not available for fleet purchases. Bobcat of Indy / Anderson / Bloomington / Indy North bobcatofindy.com
10% discount on container plant orders over $3,000.00. This is an ongoing benefit and not a one-time discount. Cardno Native Plant Nursery cardnonativeplantnursery.com
Littler $100 contribution split between the INEF Scholarship and ILA Fritz Loonsten Scholarship after a purchase of a new and/or used vehicle. Applies to purchases at Greenfield location only. Dellen Automotive Family Contact: Linda Mabee 317-462-5591
8
Littler Dial-A-Lawyer: Free 15-minute consultation with a labor lawyer.
Receive two FREE hours of graphic design work ($170 value) with the purchase of your first print or marketing project of $500 or more (new customers only).
Example: employment practices, handbook, wages, etc.
Five Stones Marketing Contact: Jon Carr 317-344-9499 or Troy Austin 317-344-9296 fivestonesmarketing.com
Littler Labor Lawyer Contact: Alan McLaughlin 317-287-3523
Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
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Sunbelt Rentals in Fishers Automatic 10% discount on commercial insurance. Contact us today for quotes on Commercial Business, Bonding, Life, and Personal Lines insurance. M.J. Schuetz Insurance Services Contact: Kim Glass 317-548-3937, kglass@mjsis.com
Receive $100 off an order of $500 or more. Valid at any location in Indiana. Valid to first-time customers only. This is a one-time offer. SiteOne Landscape Supply siteone.com
15% discount on landscaping equipment. Must have charge account. Sunbelt Rentals in Fishers Contact: Loren Gentry 317-849-2119 Loren.gentry@sunbeltrentals.com sunbeltrentals.com
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“Where Quality & Value Prevail!” Gobles, MI First-time Customers Truckload Only 10% discount on B&B Trees WAHMHOFF FARMS NURSERY
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Wasson Nursery Contact: Bob Wasson 317-588-1530
Receive a $500 gift card for future rental equipment, attachments, Stihl, or Scag mowers with purchase of a John Deere compact construction machine. West Side Tractor Sales Contact: Bill Price, 765-447-6933 bprice@westsidetractorsales.com
New INLA Member Benefit Partner Profile
Service First Processing Makes Accepting Credit Cards Simple, Efficient, and Profitable Service First Processing (SFP) is a leading provider of credit card and ACH/ check processing services. We make accepting credit cards simple, efficient and more profitable for your company. NAHAD and SFP have put together a special “members only program” that is guaranteed to reduce your cost of credit card processing while improving your level of service and support.
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This new program will enhance your company’s profitability: 1. SFP will provide your company with a savings proposal based on your unique business processing needs and our consultative analysis. 2. This program offers you a 60-day trial period during which you will be provided with the necessary equipment and training.
• Twenty percent (20%) Member Rebate • 60-day Trial Period • Equipment Loaner Program • Member help line: 855-632-9862 • Free “AccessOne” Reporting Tool
Service FIrst Processing Contact: 855-632-9862 SFProcessing.com
3. In addition to your initial cost reduction, ten percent (10%) of the net processing revenue that SFP generates from your account will be rebated back to you on an annual basis.
Additional member benefits will be announced as they come available. Please check the INLA website for most up-to-date list.
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Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
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IDNR Spotlight
Getting to the Root of the Matter Four case studies in diagnosing root issues Eric Biddinger, Nursery Inspector, Indiana Department of Natural Resources There is an interesting dichotomy at play in the horticulture industry. Consider a centuries-old oak tree. Picture the extensive root system that over decades intertwined with the rocks and soil, anchoring it against wind, rain, and even time itself. A tree in a nursery is a different story. Our industry is defined by making plants portable by restricting roots with containers or pruning them with tree spades. While moving plants has benefits to the landscape industry, it stresses root systems in ways that can compromise both short-term and long-term vitality of the plant. Understanding the roots helps us to refine our production system as well as recognize problems when they do occur. As a nursery inspector for the last 11 years, I have learned a lot about various insect and disease pests. But I often run across issues that bring me back to my training in root physiology. This article explores four examples of cultural practices affecting root health seen in the nursery industry today.
Issue 1: Soils Matter A few years ago, I was called to look at 20 six-foot Fraser Firs that had been planted in a landscape. The trees were moved as B&B into an area of heavy clay soils, some of it fairly low lying. Over 50 percent of the trees had died within months of transplanting. The issues were threefold. First, Frasers, in my experience, are finicky to transplant. They need larger root balls due to poor rooting habits. Second, the trees were moved from sandy to clay soil. The surrounding clay soil prevented water from draining away from the holes, drowning the roots. Finally, foliar symptoms of flooding look just like drought stress. The homeowner responded to the browning and needle drop by increasing the irrigation, making the problem worse! A little bit of research and proper matching of plant material to a site would 10
have prevented a lot of issues. Remember, it is okay to tell a customer “no.” Just be prepared to explain why and offer alternatives. After all, folks expect us to be “plant experts.”
Issue 2: Big Plants in Small Root Balls The Housing Bubble of 2008 had far-reaching effects in the U.S. economy, including the horticulture industry. As nursery stock sales slowed, the plants continued to grow. Few nurseries had the capital to invest in larger equipment to handle bigger material. When sales finally regained momentum, I noticed a worrying trend of digging larger trees with existing equipment, resulting in undersized balls and over-pruned root systems. While initial transplanting may seem successful, these trees endure a longer period of transplant shock. Larger specimens have more carbohydrate reserves, meaning it might take five or more years for transplant failure to become apparent. Protracted care and watering is essential to recover root mass and ensure survival. The simplest way to assist establishment is to use the correct ball size for a particular size and species of plant, even if that means hiring or leasing the right equipment for a particular job. A good starting point for selecting the correct ball size is the American Standard for Nursery Stock (ANSI Z60.1-2014). Remember, adjustments to this standard may need to be made for specific species, soil conditions, or end uses. If these standards cannot be met, be aware of the compromised nature of the root system and take proper cultural precautions (increased staking and an extended period of proper irrigation and fertilization) to help ensure survival.
Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
Issue 3: Container Management At one nursery I noticed Rhododendrons in larger containers were showing heavy leaf spot. Plants in one-gallon containers had little to no symptomology. This particular house had overhead irrigation on an automated system. To investigate, I started with the smaller containers. They were newer stock potted with coarse bark mulch media. The roots of these plants were healthy looking. The older plants were holdover stock that had been stepped up into larger containers. In those containers, the filler was a peat moss-type potting soil. The water could be wrung out of the media and the roots were dark. It was determined that these plants had “wet feet” with Phytophthora root rot in the older plants. This situation could be resolved several different ways. Stock could be segregated by size and zonal irrigation used to reduce overwatering in the large containers. Hand watering in this greenhouse would also be an option. Container weight can be used as a good indicator of water status. In this case, the grower changed media used for repotting to a coarser mix to increase drainage. Irrigation needs were also more closely monitored.
(Getting to the Root continues on page 12.)
Photo A: This girdling root got its start as a circling root in container. Uncorrected it lead to the demise of the tree years later. (Photo courtesy of New Vistas Landscaping)
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Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
11
Getting to the Root (continued from page 10)
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Drip Sprinkler Greenhouse Visit us at www.IndianaIrrigation.com 12
Issue 4: Poor Root Structure A homeowner called for assistance with an established maple tree exhibiting decline. There was moderate dieback at the ends of the branches on one side of the canopy. My first impression was Verticilium wilt. But taking a step back from the tree, I noticed the trunk went in the ground like a telephone pole – no root flare. With little excavation, we discovered a girdling root around the entire base of the tree (Photo A). Then came the inevitable question: “What can we do to save this tree?” My answer started with, “Well, 20 years ago …” The circling roots probably started when the tree was held too long in a container and could have been corrected when the tree was placed in the nursery. Per the homeowner’s wishes, the offending root was removed and the tree nurtured, but the damage is done. Root maintenance might help the tree along for a couple more years, but the long-term survival of this tree is doubtful. In another instance, a new shipment of containerized fruit tree whips were dying shortly after arrival to the nursery. Excising the roots showed that they were recently containerized bare root whips. Aside from having limited feeder roots, they were potted 6 to 8 inches too deep, leading to the start of stem cankers. Additionally, serious root issues (like the J-shaped roots in Photo B) were created by forcing roots into a container. Nurseries have always faced a challenge with containerized plants. Plants do not always fit in the pot we want them in. Additionally, roots deflect and start circling when they encounter container walls. Bad root form inhibits water and nutrient take-up and slows establishment in the landscape. If the plants do survive transplanting, the ticking time bombs of poor wind stability and girdling roots might still lead to eventual plant mortality.
Photo B. This plum tree was forced into a container forming a poor root form called a “J-root”. This tree was also potted about 4 inches too deep. The knife indicates soil level in the container. (Photo by Eric Biddinger)
Root structure should be examined whenever roots are exposed. Poor root form can be addressed when plants are stepped up to larger containers or being transplanted. Plants with extreme root deformities should be culled and replacement plants should be considered.
Conclusion Roots, by their nature, invoke a sense of mystery. Spreading unseen through the soil, they are often forgotten or ignored until problems occur. All of the issues presented here have two common attributes. First, they were caused by the need to make a plant portable. Second, they could have been easily prevented with proper culture. So the next time you dig a tree, wrap a B&B, or pull a plant out of a container, take a look at that root system. Is there enough root to support the plant? Will these circling roots girdle the tree? Is this soil right for this plant? Are you providing the right watering and fertilization to reduce transplant shock? Careful consideration of root growth and environment can lead to more successful transplanting and faster establishment in the landscape.
About the Author Eric Biddinger is a nursery inspector with the Indiana DNR in north central Indiana. He is editor of the Entomology Weekly Review e-mail newsletter. (Subscribe at www.in.gov/dnr/entomolo/9413.htm.) Eric graduated from Purdue and Penn State with degrees in Horticultural Science. His hobbies include woodworking, magic, and touring botanical gardens with his wife, Sarah.
Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
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Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
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May/June 2017
The Irrigation Issue Will You Be SMART in 2017?
BUSINESS
14 Will You Be SMART in 2017? Education
18 Winter Wrap-up: Featuring a 38% Warmer Than Normal January Business
20 A Custom Approach to 40 Years of Growth Member Highlight: Indiana Irrigation Co.
Community
21 Earn Irrigation Association CEUs While Listening to the Radio
14
Kevin Koss, Kenney Corporation The Green Industry has made the turn in PROVEN SMART technology and this year you have a greater array of controllers and devices than any other year before. As I returned from the recent national irrigation show, it was clear that manufacturers had made the leap into WiFi, Bluetooth, Mobile apps, and other technology to meet the needs of tech-demanding customers. I encourage you to become familiar with the newest in technology to include in your designs and marketing for existing and new customers. “Smart” home features are not just a passing fad; rather, current projections indicate that by 2020 more than 30 billion devices will be connected to the internet. Not hard to believe when you
Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
watch every kid walking out of school with their phone in hand texting. We’ve gone from the Silent Generation, to Baby Boomers, Millennials, and up through Generations X, Y, and Z. To meet the demands and expectations of this ever-changing generation of buyers, our industry has been challenged to embrace technology. Tech-savvy buyers today want the ability to control, monitor, and adjust everything from their landscape lighting, water features, and yes, even the irrigation, and to do it all from their smart phone or tablet. Recognize, too, that both young and old desire this technology, though their interests arise from different concerns. The older generations will tend to make buying
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decisions based upon improved safety or security, while younger generations will look for convenience and customization. In both cases their interests in saving money on the ever-increasing utility costs will always be a key factor in their buying decisions.
Landscape Lighting Controls at Your Fingertips No longer is landscape lighting installed and programmed to come on and off at specified times. Instead there are controls allowing you to turn on perimeter lights when you pull into your driveway for security, adjust lighting levels to set moods around your pool and gardens, and colorchanging lamps to match the season. Unique Lighting Systems offers Light LogicTM Plus, the internet-based control system with capacity to set up to 4 scenes per site for total flexibility. The easy initial set-up can be completed by the contractor with a hand-held remote, and homeowners can download the app for iOS or Android mobile devices to then update, turn on or off, and set lighting levels to meet their desires. This system can also be linked to water features or fountains to turn on or off and control holiday lighting. The key value is the ability to do so from wherever you have internet access anywhere around the world. Additional manufacturers have other variations of remote control, and I believe we will continue to see expanded products coming out this year. One such app-controlled transformer operates via Bluetooth over WiFi to make installation easier for the contractor. The downside to this is its shorter range so it may not be functional on larger properties. In talking with contractors that have embraced this new technology, their main concern is the added up-front costs, and generally only include the added appcontrolled systems to those clientele that
asked for it initially. Most agree that customers think it’s really cool when shown the added capability and believe that as homes integrate smart technology for security, heating, and internal home use, landscape lighting apps are a logical next step. The best comparison is to look back a few years ago when landscape lighting installers were only experimenting with LED lighting. At that time LED bulb costs were over $100, but manufacturers have come a long way, and lower costs now mean that LED lighting is the standard for nearly 100% of all installations. I predict that we will also pick up speed with mobile apps as the technology improves and more homeowners become aware of it. My recommendation is to have this in your arsenal and be ready when the flood gates open in this industry. You have the golden opportunity to make them aware and drive the demand for this added value to your installations.
Irrigation SMART Technology Over the past 15 to 20 years we have seen technology evolve, and I believe transform how we irrigate turf. From the early introduction of Rain Bird MaxicomTM computer-controlled systems that were complex and only applicable to large commercial applications, we now have single valves controlled wirelessly and used on the smallest of residential sites. It brings to my mind the old saying of “You’ve come a long way baby.” Last December at the IA (Irrigation Association) Show in Las Vegas, the winner for the 2016 Turf/Landscape New Product Award went to
Hydro-Rain for their newest HRC-400 WiFi Controller. Every major irrigation manufacturer now has available WiFi options, and with those the ability to use weather data to adjust automatically the amount of water utilized to generate significant savings in water usage. There once was a question of whether or not to use this technology; however, with the proven success and significate impact on water conservation, it is now time to evaluate and determine which one to use. Our industry must lead the way in water conservation and continue to educate the homeowner. In doing so, nearly every installation should be incorporating water conservation items from sprays, rotors, drip irrigation, and now SMART controllers. We have worked with numerous contractors and gotten their input and feedback in order to recommend to you the top choices for consideration. I suggest that you work with your local distributor to learn more about some of these options if you are not familiar with them or how to install and set-up. (SMART in 2017 continues on page 16.)
No need to crawl on the ground to program a batterypowered timer. The BL-KR timer lets you program standing up with your phone.
Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
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Advanced Tree 2017.qxp_Advanced Tree 2017 1/16
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Will You Be SMART in 2017? (continued from page 15) Key SMART Controller Options to Consider: • Rain Bird ESP-Me with LNK WiFi ET and Live Weather Feeds can retro-fit existing controller and can be programmed remotely. Flexibility with scheduling and many strong features with user friendly app. • K-Rain Pro EX 2.0 with WiFi ET and Weather Intelligence built-in, and remote programming. Additionally, they have introduced the BL-KR, a batterypowered Bluetooth controller for remote valves to solve those isolated site issues. • Toro Evolution with SMRT Logic ET and On-Site Weather Station, appbased, but initial programming must be done at the controller and you cannot make changes to the programming from the mobile app. • Weathermatic SmartLine with SmartLink Radio communication up to one mile, uses ET and On-Site Weather Station, remote programming available; key benefit to this controller are the three options for communication using WiFi, Radio signal, or Cellular (cellular charges apply)
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• Hunter HydraWise 12 Pro (HC-1200i) User-selected weather station, remote programming available, can multi-stack controllers and use same WiFi location, may see additional cost to upgrade to broader weather station capabilities. • Hydro-Rain HRC-400 WiFI ET or Live Weather Feeds, can program remotely, Bluetooth connectivity available as back-up and ease for contractor access; this controller is not modular and only available as 8 or 16 stations. As with other controllers, they will do custom graphics and add your company name and logo on the front of the controller. • Rachio Gen 2 Weather-based, cloud-based memory that can integrate with Nest, Wink, and other smart home systems. Very popular for homeowners to retro-fit due to its features and third-party home-automation integration. Only available in 8 or 16 station units.
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Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
Mobile apps and their convenience to the homeowner or landscape maintenance team are here to stay and will certainly continue to expand and grow in the coming years. Be sure you check out the options available to you in 2017 and become aware of what you can offer to new and existing customers. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to be an industry expert and knowledgeable in mobile technology in your field.
About the Author Kevin Koss is Vice President of Kenney Corporation, where he manages sales for Kenney Outdoor Solutions and Kenney Machinery. Kenney Outdoor Solutions is the leading midwest wholesale distributor for landscape and irrigation products and Kenney Machinery is the Toro equipment distributor for the Indiana/Kentucky market. Further information about any of the products mentioned in this article can be found at www.kenneyoutdoorsolutions.com.
Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
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Education
Winter Wrap-up: Featuring a 38% Warmer Than Normal January Kyle Daniel, Purdue University There is no need to be repetitive because we all know, but this winter was very mild. Records were set all over the country for the abnormally warm temperatures. From September 2016 to March 2017, the average high monthly temperatures were higher than normal by 4%-38% (Fig. 1) Snowfall was significantly less than normal, while overall precipitation was similar to historical averages (except December and February) (Fig. 2). Going into the winter months, a cooler and wetter than normal weather pattern was expected by NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration). Since that forecast was incorrect, there has been some concern voiced as to any potential negative effects on nursery and landscape plants. While you will never hear me complain about being too warm during the winter, there could have been negative ramifications for plants. Plants are remarkable organisms, as evolution has equipped them with processes to overcome both biotic and abiotic stress. Dormancy, a very important evolutionary trait, is a very interesting physiological process that allows temperate zone plants the ability to “escape” low, potentially fatal temperatures. From all indications, this past winter did not provide enough growing degree days after chilling hours were achieved that would have allowed bud break too early. If the warm January and February had been followed by extremely cold temperatures in March, it would have been a different story. The consistent warm temperatures continued into spring, preventing potential damage. One of the potential problems that occurs during the winter months is desiccation of conifers. Winter desiccation occurs due to water loss through the stomata during warm, sunny, and/or windy days. The symptomology that typically occurs with winter desiccation is needle browning, usually on the south and/or west sides (Fig. 3). Soil moisture is still important during dormancy, so the drier months of December and February could have allowed some winter desiccation, though we are not receiving an abnormal amount of samples so far this spring. There has been reservation through most of the winter of the potential consequences of the warm temperatures, but it appears we have come out with minimal damage. I was on a conference call with several climate centers around the Midwest and the director of the climate center at Iowa State summed up this winter quite well, as he stated, “It appears we have dodged the bullet this winter.”
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Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
Additional Information Purdue Extension and Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture released a press release in March about the early spring warm-up: http://www.purdue.edu/newsroom/releases/2017/ Q1/extension-specialists-advise-monitoring-plants-in-colderweather.html We also developed a document that explains winter injury and dormancy in a bit more detail: https://ag.purdue.edu/hla/Extension/nle/Articles/Warm%20 Weather%20May%20Cause%20Problems%20for%20Ornamentals.pdf Figure 3. Winter desiccation of Taxus spp. (yew), which occurs during reduced soil moisture during the winter.
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Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
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Business
Member Profile: Indiana Irrigation Co., Inc.
A Custom Approach to 40 Years of Growth Indiana Irrigation Co., Inc. is a family business that has been providing better life through water in north central Indiana, the Midwest, and across the U.S.A. since 1977. They pursue the best methods and applications of water through engineering design, products, and service to their customers. Celebrating their 40th anniversary this year, Indiana Irrigation offers a broad knowledge base and experience in all types of ag irrigation systems, such as sprinkler systems, drip systems, traveler systems, pivot systems, turf systems, and waste water applications. In addition, they proudly distribute products for many of the world’s premier irrigation equipment manufacturers. The company was founded in the early days of irrigation when systems were more of a luxury than an everyday tool in the Midwest. Jack Laymon, the founder, started the company in his backyard. Since then the company has grown to three buildings of inventory, a maintenance facility, large pipe yard, and more staff. Mark Torkelson has been head of sales and operations for many years as Jack moved on to retirement activities. Mark’s son Daniel has been working alongside Mark for the past 10 years, assisting in all areas of the business. Indiana Irrigation has faced and overcome challenges through the years. One of the No two growers are the same, these pictures are examples of our tailor made solutions for various needs and desires. challenges has been maintaining employees who have a fair knowledge of irrigation. Since farm irrigation is a niche business, especially here in looking for the best answers to each of our mercial nurseries, waste water, row crops, the Ohio Valley, they have built up emcustomers’ needs and working with our supfruit and vegetables, sports turf, etc., that ployees with their own training unique to pliers to find the right solutions,” says Danhave helped stabilize business as different the area’s opportunities. Employing family iel Torkelson. Combined with their long sectors have experienced drops in demand members for the long term has been a big presence in the market, this allows them to over the years. advantage in growing an experienced staff. provide excellent solutions to producers. The business has grown because of Like any agrarian business, they are Indiana Irrigation Co., Inc. has been a their close connection with not only the also subjected to the ebb and flow of member of INLA since 1989. needs of their customers, but the knowlweather and seasons. Over the years they edge of their suppliers. “We are always have moved into several markets, com-
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Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
OPEN UP YOUR DOORS TO NEW OPPORTUNITIES IN 2017
Community
Earn Irrigation Association CEUs While Listening to the Radio The Water Zone radio show is excited to announce that it will partner with the Irrigation Association to provide on-air educational training for the irrigation and landscape professional. The partnership will extend the IA’s and The Water Zone’s educational outreach and make technical programs more accessible to the public. Training will be conducted quarterly by a rotating group of IA-certified irrigation specialists. Listeners will be able to earn IA continuing education units. The first series of technical presentations will air April 27, 2017, and will focus on irrigation hydraulics and basic system troubleshooting techniques. The award-winning radio show is sponsored by The Toro Company and has featured myriad notable federal, state, and local governmental representatives, water agencies, educators, scientists, horticulturists, and meteorologists to impart information to the general public about water use, legislation, and best practices. “This is a first for our industry,” stated Rob Starr, co-host of The Water Zone. “We are honored to partner with the Irrigation Association to provide a unique way to further educate professionals and the public about irrigation systems and proper landscape water management.” “We are thrilled to be partnering with The Water Zone to provide a platform for irrigation industry professionals to tap into additional learning opportunities,” said Clover Belluz, CIT, IA’s professional development director. “The programming being offered by this partnership provides another educational avenue as we strive to promote efficient irrigation.” The Water Zone broadcasts live Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. Pacific on KCAA in Southern California. Outside of the listening area, the shows can be accessed via UStream or at www.kcaaradio.com.
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Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
21
Certification & Education
Certification Calendar
Upcoming CCHs & Special Dates
Indiana Accredited Horticulturist (IAH) Review Session and Test Registration
July 19, 2017 IAH Review and Exam Designscape, Nashville, Indiana
Date: July 19, 2017
9:00 am – Review 11:00 am – Test (initial & masters)
Location: Designscape 2877 T C Steele Road Nashville, IN 47448
IAH Registration & Fees: See registration form this page.
SPACE IS LIMITED – Food service is not provided Pre-registration Required • Registration Deadline: July 5 Review Session: 9:00 am – 11:00 am Eastern (optional) Fees: $25 for members or $55 for non-members, per person Initial IAH or Masters Exam (no fee for 1st time if currently IAH certified): 11:30 am – 2:00 pm Eastern Retest Fee: ___$15 members or ___$25 non-members
Certifications Indiana Accredited Horticulturist (IAH)
The Indiana Nursery and Landscape Association has developed the Indiana Accredited Horticulturist Program to provide a method of self-study and accreditation for individuals in the nursery industry. The goal of this certification and accreditation program is to develop knowledgeable, motivated, professional employees for the landscape nursery industry. >>> http://inla1.org/iah_cert.cfm
IAH materials must be purchased through the INLA to be certified. Initial Test: Per person ___$95 members or ___$145 non-members (Note: The review session is an additional charge per person noted above.) Name/s________________________________________________________________ Company______________________________________________________________ Address________________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip___________________________________________________________ Phone____________________________ Cell Phone__________________________ Email_______________________________ Fax_____________________________ Credit card:
Card No.:_____________________________________________________________ Name on card: ________________________________________________________ Expiration date: __________________
Security code: ___________
Email for receipt:_______________________________________________________
Landscape Industry Certified (CLT)
The INLA offers Indiana green industry professionals the opportunity to become internationally certified through PLANET's Landscape Industry Certified program. Become certified in one or all of the following specialties: Hardscape / Softscape / Ornamental / Maintenance / Turf Maintenance / Irrigation — with each specialty having its own written field exam. >>> http://inla1.org/clt_cert.cfm >>> www.landscapeprofessionals.org
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Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
Questions: Contact Rick Haggard (317) 889-2382 office or (765) 366-4994 cell or haggard.rick@att.net FAX completed form to: 317.889.3935 by July 5, 2017
Growing a diverse selection of native trees and shrubs
Front (from left to right): David Hubinger, John Kuhn, and Ninette Cox. Back row (from left to right): Lorraine Keilman, Eric Hubinger, Brian Hart, Jim Hubinger, Kevin Roth, Gary Willey, Alex Ankrom, Dave Jaroscak, and Laura Keray.
12 for 12! An IAH Success Story
Specializing in Root Pruning
George Brenn, Four Seasons Nursery
We don’t recall this ever happening before. Hubinger Landscape Corporation in Crown Point encouraged their employees to participate in the IAH program during this past winter. All 12 of the employees who enrolled in Hubinger’s IAH Training Classes passed the initial IAH exam. This is a remarkable feat, as the usual “pass rate” is around 50% for the initial IAH exam. Brian Hart is the Garden Center Manager at Hubinger’s and was the “point man” for their IAH training. Brian even developed several crossword puzzles to help his fellow employees learn plant names, as well as and other IAH materials. The goal they set out to achieve was to increase their horticultural knowledge and professionalism. WOW!! What a great job they did … 12 for 12! The INLA salutes Hubinger Landscape Corporation and Garden Center for this unprecedented success. We welcome these 12 new Indiana Accredited Horticulturists as they join 1,663 folks who have achieved IAH certification since 1976 when our program began. We are hoping that when you read this, you’ll grasp the idea of helping your employees and co-workers increase their understanding of horticulture, as well as promoting the level of professionalism afforded by certification as an Indiana Accredited Horticulturist.
Phone: (317) 994-5487 Toll free: (866) 766-8367 Fax: (317) 994-5494
www.woodywarehouse.com sales@woodywarehouse.com 3339 W County Road 850 N PO Box 259, Lizton, IN 46149
Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
23
Certification & Education
IAH Quiz
The Indiana Accredited Horticulturist Committee is pleased to provide you an opportunity to earn CEUs (continuing education units) in each issue of the Indiana Nursery and Landscape News. The IAH quiz offered in each issue can be completed by anyone who is an “Active” (current) IAH (initial or masters). Each quiz will be worth a .5 (onehalf) CEU (continuing education unit) for the completion of the bi-monthly quiz with a pass rate of 80%. Over a 2-year period, you could earn up to 6 CEUs if you take and pass every quiz! The INLA office will grade the quiz. Questions and answers have been provided by the IAH committee. Thank you and good luck studying! The Indiana Accredited Horticulturist Committee Chair - George Brenn, Four Seasons Landscaping Nursery Committee Members - Brian Bunge, LaPorte County Nursery - Gabriel Gluesenkamp, Designscape Hort Services - Wayne Gruber, Niemeyer’s Landscape Supply - Jim Messmer - Melissa Mravec, Allen Landscape - Jodie Overmyer, Price Nurseries
Please Note: New Chapters Added to Indiana Accredited Horticulture (IAH) Manual As of January 6, 2017, all IAH exams will include questions from the NEW CHAPTER 9 (Ornamental Plant Pathogen Biology and Management) as well as questions from the NEW CHAPTER 15 (Diagnosing Plant Health Problems). The new chapters are on the new download from the website and available on the CD. 24
IAH Quiz: MAY 2017
Due: June 15, 2017
Complete the quiz and mail or fax to INLA by the deadline above. Be sure to write your name, IAH number, and contact information on the bottom of the quiz when submitting. If additional space is needed, please attach the extra paper to this form and submit together. Mark your answers.
1. In the name Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight’, ______________________ is the species name. 2. Leaves that possess multiple ________________________ are said to be compound. 3. The ________________________ nomenclature we use today was developed by Carolus Linneaus. 4. The needles of a Spruce tree are actually its ________________________. 5. While common names for plants may be different from one region to another, the ________________________ and ________________________ names are universal. 6. Most people want their landscape to be _____________ _____________. 7. Plants that grow in natural populations in North America are said to be ________________________. 8. In the plant name Viburnum xjuddii, the x indicates that the plant is a ________________________ of others. 9. The IAH Manual states that when selecting plants, one should consider esthetics, adaptation, ______________________, maintenance, and cost. 10. The _________________ _________________ of a plant would include the time, color, and duration of blooms; the size, color, and duration of fruit; as well as other ornamental characteristics.
Name:_____________________________________________________________________________ IAH No.:___________________________________________________________________________ Phone:_____________________________________________________________________________ Email:_____________________________________________________________________________ Fax: 317-889-3935 or Mail: INLA, 7915 S. Emerson Ave., #247, Indianapolis, IN 46237 Answers: Please contact the INLA office if you would like to receive the answers or find out your results to any previous IAH quiz.
Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
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Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
25
Certification & Education
George Brenn’s IAH Study Guide George Brenn, Four Seasons Landscaping Nursery, created this study guide to help teach the material covered in the IAH Manual. His intention was to assist those trying to master the subjects within the manual. Text: © George Brenn
Chapter 11 – Landscape Design Landscape design is the art of creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor environment for human use (Outdoor Living Area). Landscape planning can be performed by Landscape Architects or Landscape Designers and sometimes by Landscape Contractors. Benefits of professional landscape design include improvement of quality of life and value of property. Good landscaping is an investment that increases in value over time, and enhances a home’s value. Design Process: 1.) Interview the client to determine their desires and expectations, discuss their “want list,” budget, design fees, priorities, etc. 2.) Preparation of “base map” of property showing location of house on property, property lines, driveway, walkways, patio, fences, etc. Scale of the drawing is determined at this point, usually 1/8” = 1’- 0” or 1” = 10’ for residential projects. 3A.) Site Inventory looks at physical characteristics of property and should include features that are beyond property lines. 3B.) Site Analysis allows the designer to become familiar with the opportunities and/or constraints that exist on a site; Site Analysis considers views (inward & outward) and need for visual screening, drainage, value of existing vegetation, sun/shade areas, wind, utilities, windows, doors, water faucets, downspouts, window wells, air conditioner, meters, etc. 4.) Functionality – how might site be best developed? What activities might occur and where? Functional design concepts often begin as “bubble drawings” (see pages 7-9). 5.) Preliminary Design usually includes decisions on grade changes, drainage, space utilization, etc., and may show some dominant plant locations. During the preliminary design phase, a theme for the landscape is selected, with the intent of harmonizing the developed landscape with the site or structure. If a house is in a wooded area, a naturalistic theme can be reflected in the landscape. If the house has dynamic angles, the planting beds and landscape features might emphasize this. See pages 12-14 for examples of Arc & Tangent, Curvilinear, and Rectilinear (= rectangular) themes for the same property. Note how the open lawn areas appear, and that curvilinear designs have no “corners.” 6.) Master Plan shows all details necessary to install the landscape including plantings and hardscape, and may include specifications for installation procedures and elevations for retaining walls, patios, any structures (gazebos, pergolas, arbors, fences, sheds, walkways, drainage, etc. (see pg 16). Characteristics of a Successful Residential Landscape Design 1.) Satisfies needs of client 2.) Functions properly 3.) Sensitive to site 4.) Enhances quality of life 5.) Aesthetically successful Components of Landscape Design ORDER – a design without order is a haphazard jumble of unrelated parts that have no common theme. UNITY – a harmonious relationship among all elements of design. Includes unity of form, unity of texture, unity of color, etc. DOMINANCE = focal point: a plant of component that commands attention REPETITION – repeated use of a particular element, plant, or material. LINE – can be a form of repetition, but line compels the viewer’s eye to follow it. SCALE – size of an object relative to the space in which it is placed BALANCE – equalization of viewed weight in a design (a design cannot be composed entirely of focal points) Adding Plants to the Design – the steps in selecting plant materials are as follows: 1. List environmental conditions that the plant must live with. 2. Determine the functions the plants will serve. 3. Determine size, habit, and seasonal characteristics of any desired plants. 4. Select plants that meet these specifications. 26
Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
Fundamentals of Planting Design – Plants can serve numerous functions in the landscape: Architectural – Plants can be used as the ceilings, walls & floors of outdoor spaces Engineering – visual screening, traffic control, erosion control Climatic – wind screen, shade from trees Aesthetic – plants can be used as focal points or background Plant Characteristics – SIZE – Most important consideration in plant selection, and most frequently abused. Important to remember that some cute puppies grow up to become big ol’ dogs; so do some landscape plants. Large trees need open spaces in which to grow, while smaller ornamental trees and some large shrubs may work beneath utility lines. FORM – What is the natural shape of the plant? Columnar, globose, pyramidal, ovoid, vase-shaped, upright, weeping, fastigiate, etc. COLOR – Consider color of foliage, flowers, fruit, fall color. TEXTURE – Fine textured like a Boxwood or coarse textured like an Oakleaf Hydrangea. Other considerations for selecting plants – Hardiness zone Special soil requirements Light requirements Fertility needs Moisture requirements Special concerns (susceptibility to insects or diseases)
A good landscape design possesses DQ (Design Quality), providing good aesthetics and reasonable maintenance requirements.
Maintenance of landscape plants and components is unavoidable (there is NO such thing as a NO maintenance landscape). But, landscape maintenance can be minimized through appropriate consideration and selection of plants, materials, and structures as the landscape design is developed.
Indiana Nursery & Landscape News • MaY/June 2017
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Toolbox Talks
Getting Plenty of Sleep www.safetytoolboxtopics.com Getting plenty of sleep is a very important part of your personal safety. Most people need 7.5 to 8.5 hours of sleep each 24-hour day. Sleep loss built up slowly over several nights can be as harmful as sleep loss in one night. Both produce a decline in performance such as slower reaction times, failure to respond to changes, and the inability to concentrate and make reasonable judgments. Research that tested a fatigued state from continuous hours of wakefulness against blood alcohol levels concluded that: • 17 hours awake is equivalent to a blood alcohol content of .05 • 21 hours awake is equivalent to a blood alcohol content of .08 (the legal limit in Ohio) • 24 to 25 hours awake is equivalent to a blood alcohol content of .10 In addition to fatigue caused by shortened periods of sleep, the quality of sleep during the day is not the same as during the night. People have a natural tendency to be awake during the day. Every person has a circadian rhythm - an internal biological time clock. This rhythm follows body temperature and changes our level of mental alertness. Typically, in a 24-hour period, our alertness is reduced between the hours of 3:00 and 5:00 during the day and the night. So during night shifts, workers are fighting against their natural rhythm to stay awake at a time when they would naturally sleep. How about you? Do you get enough sleep? It is important that you do for your safety and the safety of your coworkers.
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Looking to purchase existing business Landscape, Lawncare, Tree and Shrub Care, or Irrigation Business in Indianapolis or surrounding counties. Call Jim Calvin, Calvin Landscape 317-247-6316 28
Indiana nursery & Landscape association • www.inla1.org
Rick Haggard, Executive Director INDIANA NURSERY & LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION 7915 S. Emerson Ave., Suite 247 Indianapolis, IN 46237 May/June 2017 Address Service Requested
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